The world of travel is changing rapidly, and those who like to discover new destinations are noticing the increasing effect of change. Let's take a look at six trends that will shape travel and tourism in the coming years.
Impact of global warming and climate change
Global warming and climate change are forcing us to think more and more about how and where we travel. Rising temperatures affect nature, landscapes and climatic conditions in different parts of the world. This leads to a new approach to travel planning: many countries that were previously associated exclusively with winter holidays can now become great holiday destinations throughout the year. Antarctica, Iceland and Greenland are becoming increasingly popular with tourists seeking to see beauty that may disappear.
Long "summer season"
As temperatures rise, traditional holiday seasons are also beginning to change. The concept of the "summer season" is expanding: it begins in March-April and lasts until October. This allows travelers to enjoy warm days and sunny beaches for much longer. Locals in countries such as Greece, Turkey and Portugal are already seeing an increase in the flow of guests during the "off-season", opening up many opportunities for the development of the travel industry and the creation of new tourism products.
Traveling in the cold: a new trend
If earlier winter was associated exclusively with alpine skiing and snow resorts, now traveling in the cold has become a new trend. Not only skiing and snowboarding, but also activities such as dog sledding, ice cutting and watching the northern lights attract a lot of tourists. In Scandinavia, there is an increase in interest in such tours, because these are not only sports, but also cultural adventures. Museums, ice hotels, and theme parks for winter activities are becoming a magnet for travelers.
Spain, France and Italy: Iconic destinations all year round
Countries with a rich cultural and gastronomic history, such as Spain, France and Italy, continue to be popular all year round. Regardless of the season, tourists come to enjoy the unique combination of history, art and cuisine. The economic contribution of these tourists is particularly observed in some regions where cultural events, festivals and gastronomic tours have become an important part of the local economy. Another factor is the actively developing wine routes, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the process of winemaking and tasting.
Travel Planning & Savings
With the increase in prices for transport, accommodation and other services, tourists begin to pay more attention to planning their trips. It is important not only to choose an attractive destination, but also to think over the route in advance to optimize costs. Online platforms and apps for travelers provide an opportunity to search for tickets and accommodation at the best prices, as well as find discounts and special offers. Economical travel is becoming not just a trend, but also a necessity for many.
Unique destinations and the fight against overtourism
Much attention is now paid to the choice of less popular destinations. Experienced travelers avoid overtourism and open new, less popular routes. This allows you not only to travel without crowds of tourists, but also to get to know the culture and traditions of the local population better. The forests of Slovenia, the beaches of Albania and the towns of Bulgaria are becoming more and more popular among those who are tired of crowded popular places.
Media and new sources of travel ideas
Modern social media and review platforms play a crucial role in the way we choose vacation destinations. TikTok is becoming a valuable source of travel inspiration, with users sharing hidden gems, unknown sights, and helpful tips. More and more people are turning to short videos for ideas for their travels, discovering new places they previously didn't know existed.
Another interesting trend is traveling with Netflix and Prime. Popular TV series and films create tourist routes to the locations where they were filmed. People travel to Ireland to see the castle from Game of Thrones, or to Croatia to visit the streets of Dubrovnik, representing King's Landing. Travel companies are already developing specialized tours in the wake of famous films, which is becoming another part of cultural tourism.