Today’s Top Travel Trends According to Advisors

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Travel trends in 2024 and 2025 are taking a more authentic and meaningful approach. According to industry reports and travel advisors, consumers are gravitating toward immersive experiences, less crowded destinations, and eco-conscious choices. Let’s dive into the top travel trends shaping the future of the travel industry.

1. Eco-Friendly Adventure Travel

Sustainability continues to influence how travelers choose their adventures. More travelers are seeking eco-friendly travel options that minimize environmental impact while still offering a sense of adventure. According to Virtuoso’s 2024 Luxe Report, active/adventure trips are among the top trends, with experiences like:

Hiking in protected reserves
Kayaking along pristine coastlines
Whale watching and conservation efforts

Karla Sing, from Sibaria Tours, emphasizes that travelers are keen on destinations prioritizing conservation. This shift highlights a growing demand for more impactful and mindful travel.

Why Eco-Adventures Are Trending

According to Erika Richter, vice president of communications at the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), more travelers are seeking meaningful connections with nature. They want experiences that not only entertain but also educate them about local ecosystems, promoting sustainability and minimizing their environmental footprint.

2. Culinary Travel: Where Local Immersion Meets Flavor

Today’s Top Travel Trends According to Advisors

Food has always been a key part of travel, but now, culinary tourism is more immersive than ever. Advisors from Virtuoso report a spike in demand for local dining experiences and sustainable gastronomy.

The Rise of Farm-to-Table Experiences

Some 68 percent of travel advisors indicate that clients are actively seeking out local eateries over chains, choosing dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. This trend aligns with consumers’ interest in reducing their environmental impact while enjoying authentic flavors.

Ronit Naccache, manager at Boca Express Travel, notes that culinary experiences like hands-on cooking classes, wine excursions, and market tours are at the forefront of clients’ preferences. These experiences provide travelers with an opportunity to connect deeply with local culture through food.

Culinary Travel in the Age of Social Media

Michele Schwartz, a travel concierge at Peacock Travel Group, points out that social media is playing a huge role in culinary travel. Food tours, unique dishes, and cooking experiences offer Instagram-worthy moments that travelers love to share online, further fueling the popularity of this trend.

3. Less Crowded Destinations: Exploring the Road Less Traveled

In response to overtourism, travelers are opting for less crowded, off-the-beaten-path destinations. Virtuoso’s research highlights that over 30 percent of consumers are now choosing alternative destinations to combat overtourism and enjoy more serene and intimate travel experiences.

Why Privacy Matters

Many travelers are drawn to destinations that allow for privacy and authenticity. Jonathan Alder, CEO of Jonathan’s Travels, shares that even clients initially interested in famous tourist spots often shift their focus after learning about lesser-known, quieter locations. These destinations offer more personalized and meaningful travel experiences away from the hustle and bustle.

4. Local and Immersive Experiences: A Deeper Connection to Culture

Travelers today crave cultural immersion, whether it’s through culinary tours or hands-on activities with local artisans. Advisors report that 86 percent of travelers want to invest in the cultural heritage of the places they visit, engaging with locals and supporting local crafts.

Authenticity Over Attractions

Beyond food, travelers are seeking private dining experiences, stays in locally-owned accommodations, and visits to artisan shops where they can interact with local craftspeople. These immersive experiences provide travelers with unique insights into a destination’s culture and traditions.

Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Travel

From eco-friendly adventures to culinary explorations and off-the-beaten-path destinations, today’s travel trends reflect a shift toward a more authentic and sustainable travel experience. Travelers are no longer just ticking off must-see destinations; they are immersing themselves in the local culture, respecting the environment, and sharing their adventures with the world.

For more travel inspiration and to book your next immersive journey, reach out to Desmo Travel today!