Thematic travel seems to be dominating consumer aspirations this year, far from the use of social media. This is the central conclusion of the trend report presented by TUI, which is expected to shape the travel landscape in 2025.
Interest is focused on authenticity in relation to the destination and on getting to know the lifestyle of the locals. For the 2025 traveler, experiences and sensations constitute luxury, in contrast to material goods.
The five most important travel trends of 2025
1. Small-scale luxury
In 2025, travelers will seek luxury in the form of comfort, relaxation, and premium experiences. Microadventures without tight schedules and with carefully selected activities are becoming increasingly popular. Travelers prioritize spending slightly more on private or personalized excursions, and discovering their own hidden corners means a lot to them.
2. Away from technology
A detox from technology seems to be what travelers are seeking. In fact, they will seek meaningful encounters, authentic experiences, and local flavors – without distractions from screens and digital reminders. They want to laugh more with their company.
3. Collective gathering
In 2025, the focus of vacations will be more time spent with company. Travelers will choose destinations based on their travel companions and the occasion. The increasingly intrusive digital presence and remote work have created a need for genuine meetings. Thematic trips in small groups focused on cycling, food, and history are on the rise, and multigenerational trips are becoming increasingly popular.
4. Emphasis on community-based sustainability
Regenerative travel is here to stay. For 2025, travelers will want to contribute positively to the destinations they visit and will demand community-based experiences that benefit the destination and local population, such as environmental conservation projects and beach cleanups. Informative tours are gaining momentum as travelers want to learn more about the local community in the destinations they visit.
5. Embracing AI
Artificial intelligence technology is making great strides in the travel industry, offering customers an even more personalized and customized service. The new generation of AI assistants act as personal travel advisors.”