Top Travel Trends in 2023

With the world returning to ‘normal’ following years of COVID-related struggles, these are the top travel trends in 2023 to be aware of. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or specific trip suggestions, the trends run the gammut of types of travel. From the cornerstones of The Wanderlust Curators (health & wellness, eco-tourism, and food & wine), to new trends like slow travel or Hollywood-inspired trips, take a read to see what you should be doing this year when it comes to travel:

Health & Wellness Travel

The pandemic highlighted the importance of maintaining physical and mental health. As we start to return to traveling more, many travelers are seeking out destinations that offer opportunities for relaxation, self-care, and overall wellness. From luxury resorts with top-of-the-line spas to yoga retreats nestled in nature, travelers are finding the perfect escape to meet their needs. The rise of technology is also playing a role in this trend, with hotels offering wellness-centric amenities like smart beds that adjust to the guest’s preferences, mood-enhancing lighting, and personalized meditation apps. As we become more health-conscious, wellness-focused activities such as hiking, cycling, and outdoor yoga will become more popular as travelers seek to maintain their physical and mental wellbeing while on vacation.

Slow Travel

People used to love checking destinations off their bucket list. But with our ever-changing world, more travelers are instead opting for longer stays in a single destination. Travelers are seeking out immersive experiences, connecting with local cultures, and taking the time to truly explore a destination, and this is what slow travel is all about. By taking it easy and really getting to know a place, more and more are spending a month living with a local family in a rural village, or renting an apartment in a bustling city for several weeks. This trend is allowing previous workaholics the chance for a deeper connection with a place and its people. This also supports sustainable tourism practices by encouraging a reduction in carbon footprint and support for local businesses over the long term.

Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Tourism

With growing concerns about the environment and climate change, travelers are continuing to be mindful of their global impact. Now more than ever more people are prioritizing destinations that offer eco-friendly accommodations and activities have become increasingly popular. Supporting local businesses and reducing carbon emissions have become even more commonplace. One way to do this is by opting for an electric road trip (a road trip in an electric vehicle). This can help cut down on the heavy pollution caused by flights and cruises. By choosing to travel sustainably, we can not only minimize our negative impact on the environment but also contribute positively to the communities we visit.

Film & TV Travel

The influence of TV shows and movies has made its way into travel! Fans of popular TV shows and movies are visiting filming locations more than ever. Immersing themselves in the world of their favorite entertainment, 2023 is seeing a rise in film and TV travel. Years ago it was New Zealand after “The Lord of the Rings” movie series came out. Then it was the United Kingdom with the “Harry Potter” series. Eventually “Game of Thrones” filming locations like Croatia, Spain, and Iceland became hugely popular. In recent years, travel to Colombia has seen an increase thanks to Disney’s “Encanto.” The UK has continued to be hugely popular among “Harry Potter” fans, but recent smash hit series like Netflix’s “Bridgerton” and “The Crown” has kept it high on people’s lists. Another Netflix series, “Emily in Paris,” contributed to an increase in travel to France. And another huge hit, HBO’s “The White Lotus,” has put the Italian island of Sicily on the map as the ‘it’ travel destination for film & tv travel this year.

All-Inclusive

Gone are the days of all-inclusive travel solely being associated with cheap, mass-market resorts. More travelers are opting for this hassle-free option that offers everything from accommodations to meals and activities in one package. What you see is what you pay for with no hidden surprises (a dream for anyone at every budget level!). With everything taken care of, travelers spend more time enjoying their vacation and less time worrying about the details. All-inclusive travel is also a great option for families, allowing parents to relax and have fun with their children without worrying about extra costs. There are such budget travel family resorts as Margaritaville, to luxury couples oriented resort chains as Sandals. Mass market brands like Marriott and Hyatt are also ramping up their all-inclusive hotel portfolios. Even cruise lines are getting in on it. From high-end brands like Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn, to new lines like Virgin Voyages. Even mass market cruise lines are starting to have ‘all-inclusive’ packages, like Holland America’s “Have It All” and Norwegian Cruise Lines’ “Free At Sea.”

‘Bleisure’ & ‘Lisness’

Business travel has seen a resurgence in recent months and years. As a result, people are taking advantage of vacations more than ever. ‘Bleisure’ is a concept where travelers tack on a few days to their work trip. ‘Lisness’ is newer, which sees a vacation that includes some time for work. If you have a work trip to San Francisco, for example, consider taking a few days to explore North Beach for some Italian-American food, visit Ghirardelli for delectable chocolate, and venture outside the city to Napa & Sonoma for vineyard tours and wine tastings. And for those who work remotely, consider traveling to a far-off destination — but be mindful of the time difference if you have meetings.

Food & Wine Travel

Cuisine is an instant gateway to different cultures and ways of existing. Food & wine tourism has continued to remain popular as travelers look for more unique and authentic experiences. From Michelin-starred restaurants to local street food markets, there is a vast array of options for foodies to explore. Wine lovers can visit vineyards and wineries for wine tastings or even wine-making classes. This rise has also had a positive impact on local economies, with many destinations embracing and promoting their local cuisine! Consider traditionally popular places (like Napa & Sonoma previously listed), or more up-and-coming regions. Some of these include:

• Santiago in Chile has 6 distinct wine regions
• The country of Georgia is the oldest wine producing region in the world
• Even China, whose wine industry has exploded in recent years