Travel Trends in 2025

Laikipia Conversancy, Kenya East Africa

As the world continues to evolve, so do travel trends. In 2025, we are witnessing a shift in the way people explore, with emerging trends that reflect changing preferences, technological advancements, and sustainability concerns. Here are a few of the top travel trends shaping the year ahead.

1. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Travel
Sustainability is at the forefront of travel planning in 2025. With growing awareness of climate change, human rights, and carbon footprints, travelers are prioritizing eco-friendly options such as carbon-neutral flights, green accommodations, and local community-driven tourism initiatives. Sustainable travel is no longer a niche—it’s a necessity. I had the honor of visiting the Laikipia Conservancy in Kenya.  The Laikipia Conservancies Association amplifies sustainability by aligning efforts that protect and conserve the land, the wildlife and the people through their local initiatives.  We stayed at the luxury and  Eco-friendly Ol Lentille Conservancy, jointly owned by two Maasai and two Samburu communities
My group visited villages and mingled with the good people, Elders, parents, children, their live stock, learning about how they live.  We were welcomed into one family's home, where in the west, we might say "they don't have much".  But perhaps we have too much "stuff" and not enough of the essentials that will sustain health and life.

2. Digital Nomadism and Workcations
Remote work has become a permanent fixture, and digital nomads are taking full advantage of flexible schedules. Countries are introducing long-term digital nomad visas, and travel companies are curating experiences that cater to remote workers. Destinations like Bali, Portugal, and Mexico are booming with co-working retreats that offer the perfect blend of work and leisure. In Kenya, I Learned that they becoming a viable destination for digital nomads, with the recent introduction of their dedicated "Digital Nomad Visa", which allows remote workers to live and work in the country while maintaining a foreign residency status; this visa requires proof of remote employment outside Kenya and a minimum income threshold, providing a great opportunity to experience the country while working remotely.
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3. Slow Travel Movement
Instead of jam-packed itineraries, more travelers are embracing slow travel—immersing themselves in one place for an extended period. This allows for deeper cultural connections, reduced stress, and a more sustainable approach to tourism.  Studies show that by traveling and staying in one location for longer periods of time, rather than flying to several destinations, reduces the carbon emissions from airplanes. Long-term stays in charming towns and countryside retreats, along with Day tours to attractions that are very close are becoming more popular.  

5. Wellness and Transformational Travel 
Including Health and Wellness has become a priority for many while traveling. Wellness retreats, yoga getaways, and holistic healing destinations are on the rise. Travelers want experiences that rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul, from meditation retreats in Thailand to thermal spa escapes in Iceland.  Popular wellness experiences include Meditation, Healthy foods, Sleep, Stress Management, Digestive Cleansing Massages, Exercise, Turkish Baths, and of course, Spa Treatments. Travelers are aware that stress, being overworked, living and working in toxic environments, all negatively affect our health and have devastating effects on our health and very lives. 
 
6. All-Inclusive Vacations
All-Inclusive vacations are always a hit, for those looking to relax and have everything taken care of.  Many travelers want a seamless vacation that includes their flights, lodging, airport transportation, all meals and beverages, and activities all in one place.  This is one of the best and cost-effective vacations for families. But, if you don't want to be around the little ones around, there are many Adult Only resorts to choose from.

7. Good Getaways
According to Expedia, more travelers are making room in their luggage and creating entire vacations around "getting goods", like viral Chocolate Bars from Dubai, shopping for skincare from South Korea, or experiencing a shoppers paradise in market places throughout Africa.  With posts of food and recipes all over Social media, trekkers are traveling to destinations where they can experience shopping in local food markets, use those ingredients in their cooking classes, and enjoy authentic culinary delights.

8. Noctourism/Nocturnal Tourism
According to BBC, Noctourism or nocturnal tourism is on the rise.  This could include nighttime travel experiences, such as late-night museums, bioluminescent beaches or lagoons, to viewing the Northern Lights. 
While in Laikipia Conservancy, I went on a sundowner drive where we experienced the bush as the day progressed to night.
By night time, the sky was so clear and the stars so bright, I felt I could reach up and touch them.  A first for me, was seeing the Milky Way with my own eyes. This was a reminder of the light pollution we have in urban environments.  Our guide was so surprised to hear that I had never seen the Milky Way with my own eyes.

Final Thoughts
Travel is changing, and 2025 brings exciting new trends that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you’re a sustainability advocate, a digital nomad, focusing on your health and wellness, or adventure seeker,  the future of travel offers something for everyone. Stay ahead of the curve and embrace these emerging trends as you plan your next journey!