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2023 was the year when travel was officially back to normal on par with the pre-pandemic levels. Travellers flew, took trains, crossed oceans and even went on a trip to space to tick off their bucket list. It was an eventful year. As we say goodbye to 2023 and welcome another year, here are some of the unique travel trends that dominated 2023 proving that the travel industry is dynamic, constantly changing and evolving.
Rise of conscious travel
Travellers became conscious of their impact on the environment and opted for eco-friendly accommodations and experiences that support local communities and leave minimum carbon footprints. A large number of travellers ensured that their itineraries included local experiences such as a visit to a local village, getting in touch with a local craft and more.
Digital nomads going strong
Many offices allowed their employees to work from home, leading to many working professionals becoming digital nomads, working and travelling across the world.
This travel trend is set to rule 2024 as well.
Wellness travel
This trend has been popular for a few years now but in 2023, travel agents saw a sharp increase in the bookings where travellers were interested in trips that offered them mental or physical wellness. Tourists increasingly chose destinations that offered yoga retreats, spa experiences and meditation.
Trending destinations for Indian travellers
Some of the most popular destinations favoured by a large number of Indian travellers in 2023 were Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, Azerbaijan, Maldives and Kazakhstan. Most travellers were interested in discovering offbeat destinations and experiences.
Youtube and Instagram reels played an important part in inspiring travellers to explore these destinations, especially since most GenZ and Millennials look to these platforms for inspiration.
Astro-tourism is becoming more and more popular, reflecting a general desire for deeper bonds with the universe and establishing India as a destination of choice for those looking for experiences in space that go beyond the typical. This increase, says Aditya Sharma, Community Director at Vaatalya, is attributed to the discovery of dark sky sanctuaries and reserves in places like Hanle in Ladakh, Benital and more.
Private group trips The desire to get together with friends and family for a holiday or an experience after the pandemic shows no sign of stopping, resulting in an increase in private group holiday bookings in 2023.
More people planned holidays with their entire family or a group of friends this year and indulged in experiences they will enjoy in a group, whether it’s going on a beach holiday, booking a villa in the mountains or hiking trips.
Food experiences
2023 saw a significant shift with food experiences emerging as a key motivator for travellers when booking holidays. Beyond the traditional sightseeing and relaxation, the culinary landscape of a destination became a focal point where travellers showed immense interest in unique and immersive gastronomic adventures.
This emphasis on food tourism reflected their desire for cultural immersion and a deeper connection with the destination.
The author is the Director of Brightsun Travel.
DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and ETTravelWorld.com does not necessarily subscribe to it. ETTravelWorld.com shall not be responsible for any damage caused to any person/organisation directly or indirectly.
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