2025 travel trends are shaping the future of tourism, requiring adaptability and innovation from accommodation owners. A room with two beds and clean towels is no longer enough to attract guests to a property, even if it is “hanging” from the caldera of Santorini. The bar has been set very high, not only because of increased competition but also because of the “weapon” that guests have – that of social media and reviews – that can decimate even the most luxurious accommodation in no time. As a host, understanding and adopting the 2025 travel trends is key to ensuring a successful hospitality business.
What do guests want?
Analysing data from major platforms such as Booking.com and Expedia reveals that 2025 travel trends are focused on authentic experiences, relaxation and sustainability. The data shows that travelers are prioritizing mental health and wellness. 60% are looking for trips that include advanced therapies and opportunities to disconnect from their busy lives.
How to respond to 2025 Travel Trends
1. Create a wellness environment
The pressures of everyday life are now forcing travelers to prioritize wellness and mental health. Booking.com reports that 60% of travelers are looking for long-term health benefits from their vacations, such as cryotherapy and other advanced therapies. Additionally, the concept of JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) is gaining ground, with people looking to disconnect from their busy lives and relax in quiet environments.
Tip:
-If you are lucky enough to have a property that is
in the middle of nature or if it has a sprawling garden, there are plenty of ways to advertise it and win over the large travel audience that is interested in this type of vacation.
-Add rest and relaxation furniture, such as a massage chair or even yoga mats, and promote nearby yoga studios or spas that your guests can use.
-For those looking for a way to force themselves to disconnect from their digital everyday life, let them know that you do not have wi-fi on some days of the week as a challenge. Or organize activities, such as hikes, to attract guests who are looking for tranquility.
2. Meet the needs of families and groups
2025 travel trends emphasize the importance of bonding. In 2025, travelers of all ages, including Baby Boomers, are looking for experiences that allow them to bond with loved ones through adventurous or relaxing activities. Booking.com found that 23% of Boomers are planning thrill seeking adventure holidays.
Tip:
-Since they ask for bonding, two pieces of furniture should be present in the house that will provide it. A large table for luxurious family meals and a large sofa that will provide “home” comfort for playing board games and sitting together.
-There should be plenty of tableware available, as well as an oven or grill for family or group meals.
-Needless to say, the listing should include keywords like “family friendly” or “large groups”.
3. Invest in environmental awareness
As the climate crisis grips the world, guests cannot remain indifferent to it. Data indicates that more and more guests, especially younger guests, are looking for accommodations that are in harmony with the environment and do not burden it. Thus, sustainable stays that minimize environmental impact are in high demand.
Tip:
– Eliminate plastic cups, plates, etc. – not only to be more aesthetically pleasing but to be greener and more sustainable. Incorporate environmentally friendly practices, such as providing reusable toiletries, offering recycling bins, and using energy-efficient appliances.
-Highlight eco-friendly tours or restaurants that incorporate farm-to-table practices.
-Mention your green efforts in your listing.
4.Create unique photo spots
Social media is the guests “weapon”, and it can become yours at the same time.
How? By renewing parts of your property with unique objects, different wallpapers or interestingly patterned curtains. In other words, give Influencers – and not only them – the opportunity to take pictures in parts of the house that will bring a lot of likes, while advertising your property at the same time.
Tip:
-A colorful, bold wallpaper on one wall will create a backdrop suitable for photography.
– 2025 travel trends highlight the power of social media, so invest in high-quality photos.
5. Don’t exclude pets
An open door to pets not only reaches out to those who have pets but also to those who don’t, just knowing that they are not entering a sterile property that doesn’t feel like home. At the same time, it is a great solution for guests who have pets to know that they can have them with them on their vacation.
6. Offer technological comfort
If you’re used to living with technology, it is difficult to part with it on vacation unless you want to take a break from it. Travelers who cannot part with it seek the comforts that technology offers them.
Smart home features and strong connectivity are top priorities for them.
Tip:
-Add voice-activated features.
-Make sure high-speed Wi-Fi is available and reliable.
– Highlight in your listing that this is a smart home that aims to help your guests relax and unwind.
Understanding 2025 travel trends and adapting your property to meet guest needs can make all the difference. Small changes with strategic thinking can enhance the guest experience and increase your property’s value in a competitive market.