Unique travel trends that we got to witness in 2023
The year 2023 has seen a rise in some travel trends that have revamped the purpose of traveling. While some are new, others have existed for quite some time but only garnered attention recently. With 2024 quickly approaching, here are the most exciting travel trends we saw this year and hope to see in the years to come in the travel and tourism industry.
Digital detox or digital nomadism
Despite COVID-19 guidelines coming to relaxation and the "back to the office" norm taking over, digital nomadism has seen a rise in 2023. People are combining work and travel, choosing destinations that offer a good quality of life, reliable internet connectivity, and coworking spaces. According to CNBC, 107% growth was seen in digital nomads in 2023, especially after many countries offered visa-free travel.
Visa-free travel
Let's move on to the next travel trend: visa-free travel, a trend we witnessed in 2023 and anticipate continuing in the future. Many countries including Vietnam, Thailand, Sri Lanka, China, Nepal, Laos, Bhutan, and Malaysia have offered visa-free travel for up to a stipulated period to citizens of other nations this year. This move aims to amplify tourism and encourage more visitors.
Sleep tourism
Sleep tourism is another trend that travelers in 2023 "woke up" to. The trend involves going on a vacation and opting for sleep-related amenities or services that can help you sleep like a baby! To enhance their sleeping patterns, travelers choose to go on sleep retreats and reserve packages. Experts noted that this was the top wellness trend of this year.
Multigenerational travel
Multigenerational travel is about traveling together with your kids, siblings, parents, and grandparents. According to a survey conducted by The Drum, "Safari company African Travel reported a 20% increase in safari bookings, with 40% of trips arranged by grandparents to make a bucket-list experience possible for their families." Honestly, this is one trend we would love to see in 2024 and beyond too.
Sun tourism
Sun tourism became a popular trend among travelers, with people flocking to mountains and hill stations not for the snow but for the sun! The enticing mix of the cool mountain air and the warmth of the sun is what has lured people to head over to famous hill destinations like Manali and Rishikesh in India. Hotel rooms with sunrise views gained more bookings.
