Top 5 Travel Trends of 2024
Sometimes, it’s ok to be trendy!
A new year means new adventures, and it’s never too early to start planning! Here are the top five trends we are seeing for 2024.
#1 Going Beyond
Travelers are moving away from simple escapes and focusing on education, cultural immersion, and expanding their understanding of the world through off-the-beaten-path destinations that are outside their comfort zones.
Is there a destination that has been on your bucket list, but you just don’t know where to start or feels too out of reach? Do you want to avoid the touristy spots and visit a destination authentically? This is where we thrive and can leverage our partnerships to give you incredible experiences.
Examples: Instead of Italy, try Slovenia! Don’t want to brave the Drake Passage to Antarctica? Opt for Svalbard or Iceland instead.
#2 Going Private
Travelers are prioritizing private transfers and experiences, allowing for bespoke tours away from the crowds.
Have you ever been on a group tour with someone who monopolizes your guide’s time or gotten stuck waiting around for the rest of the group to arrive before your transfer departs? We really value private experiences where our partners and guides can tailor the experience to you and your interests. No waiting around, no large buses, and no silly headsets - just you, your guide, and a custom experience.
Example: On most safaris, you’ll be sharing a vehicle with several other couples or families. Ensure that you prioritize the animals you want to see with a private vehicle.
#3 Going Off-Peak
As peak-season pricing continues to rise, travelers are opting to travel during shoulder seasons where weather is still favorable, but your dollar goes further and crowds are fewer.
Have you ever missed out on your favorite hotel or tour? Not only are prices for hotels and experiences more reasonable, but traveling during shoulder season usually means more availability, ensuring you can book your favorite things and have enough budget left over to upgrade to that suite you’ve been eyeing.
Example: If you’re a birder or enjoy baby animals, opt to travel to Africa in early November when prices drop, but the rains have not fully set in. In South Africa, you can even see whales that time of year!
#4 Going Eco
Travelers are more conscious of their environmental impact and the social and economic needs of the communities they are visiting. They are prioritizing their travel decisions based on those needs - all without losing the luxury they love.
What do you picture when you hear the word eco-lodge? Most would say some version of roughing it in the wilderness. There is a huge misconception that traveling sustainably means giving up the comforts you love most about luxury hotels, and that simply just is not the case. We have endless partners who are dedicated to operating responsibly and still deliver 5-star experiences and service.
Example: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon offers an outstanding 5-star experience, including a Michelin-star restaurant, luxurious spa, and cozy accommodations, all while earning their B Corp certification.
#5 Going Coolcation
Travelers are seeking milder climates with fewer crowds. They are escaping the heatwaves and adventuring north to get their fill of outdoor experiences.
Have you gotten stuck in the European heat waves the past few summers? Unless I’m sitting on a beach, I try to avoid traveling when temperatures are at their highest. Families can avoid the sweltering summer temperatures and venture north to cooler climates with fewer people while kids are out of school.
Example: Unless you’re traveling for the Olympics, you’ll want to avoid Paris this summer. Instead, try exploring Scotland or cruise around Norway.
Where are you going in 2024?
If you know exactly where you want to adventure, or if you need some guidance, reach out to us today to get the conversation started. We are ready to help you start exploring.
