Travel trends are changing

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

YOU will find Aussies battling up the slopes of Everest or trudging through sleet and snow in the Antarctic on any given day.

And you will hear our distinctive voices on a cable car in San Francisco, walking with elephants in Africa or standing on London’s Tower Bridge. Today’s travellers have a whole world of experiences to savor, with Tourism one of the world's largest and fastest-growing industries Its development is influenced by a wide range of factors.

Some of the key trends shaping the future of travel include:

Sustainability: As awareness of environmental and social issues grows, travelers are becoming increasingly concerned about the impact of their travels on the world. They are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and support sustainable practices. This is leading to a rise in eco-friendly and sustainable tourism, including options like eco-lodges, wildlife conservation and voluntourism.

Experiential travel: The trend of experiential travel is all about creating memorable, meaningful experiences that go beyond just sightseeing. Travelers are seeking out unique and authentic local experiences, such as cultural immersion, adventure activities and local cuisine. This trend is driving the popularity of "slow travel," which allows travelers to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and environment.

Technology: Technology continues to play an important role in the travel industry, with new tools and platforms being developed to make the travel expe- rience easier, more convenient, and more personalised. This includes everything from online booking platforms, virtual and augmented reality, and AI-powered travel assistants. The rise of these technologies has also made it easier for travelers to research and plan their trips, as well as share their experiences with others.

Health and wellness: The trend of health and wellness tourism is growing rapidly, as people become increasingly focused on living healthier, more balanced lives. This includes everything from spa and wellness retreats to adventure and fitness-focused vacations. Travelers are seeking out destinations that offer opportunities for physical activity, healthy eating, and stress-relief, as well as opportunities to connect with nature and unplug from the modern world.

Domestic travel: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many travelers are opting for domestic travel over international travel. This trend is expected to continue as people seek to avoid the uncertainty and potential risks of international travel. Domestic travel offers a safe and convenient alternative, with many countries offering a wealth of unique and diverse travel experiences within their own borders.

Value for money: In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many travelers are being more mindful of their spending and looking for ways to get the most value for their money. This has led to a rise in budget-friendly travel options, such as camping, road trips and self-catering accommodations. Additionally, travelers are seeking out destinations that offer a high quality of life at a lower cost of living, such as smaller cities and rural areas.

Safety and security: In the current climate, travelers are understandably concerned about their safety and security, both at home and abroad. This is leading to a rise in demand for travel options that prioritize safety and security, such as private tours and tours with small groups. Travelers are also looking for destinations that have strong health and safety protocols in place, such as mandatory COVID-19 testing and contact tracing.

Purpose-driven travel: More and more travelers are seeking out travel experiences that align with their personal values and beliefs, such as eco-friendly travel, voluntourism, and cultural exchange programs. This trend is driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world and to connect with others on a deeper level.

Hyperlocalism: The trend of hyperlocalism is all about connecting with local communities and experiencing the unique culture and traditions of a particular place. This includes everything from homestays and local tours to community-based activities and events. Hyperlocalism is helping to support local economies and promote sustainable tourism practices.