September 2023 Newsletter - Travel Trends

Hello everyone!

Hope you’re enjoying the last of the summer sunshine?  It was a pretty wet summer so I have had lots of customers book up for last-minute September and October breaks, and I don’t blame them!  Winter holidays are also on people's minds, whether it's winter sun or a ski trip, we all like something booked to look forward to!

This month, my focus is on key travel trends, and how they’ll affect you:

1. The growth of sustainable tourism, in particular slow travel:

Slow travel focuses on the journey, rather than the destination. It's about taking your time, savouring the experience, and connecting with the places you visit. Rail travel is a great way to slow down and enjoy the journey. Trains offer a unique perspective on the world, and they can take you to places that are inaccessible by car or plane.

Benefits of slow travel by rail:

• It's more sustainable. Trains produce fewer emissions than cars or planes
• It's more affordable, in both time and money. Rail travel can be a more affordable way to travel than flying, especially when you factor in the cost of transportation to and from the airport, and the need to check-in long before your flight departs.
• It's more relaxing. Trains offer more space and comfort than airplanes, and remove the queuing and hassle of an airport experience!
• It's more immersive. Rail travel allows you to see more of the places you visit, and it gives you more time to connect with the local culture.

If you are interested in finding out more, please read my recent article about slow travel by rail here 

2. River, Ocean and Expedition Cruising

Cruise continues to grow in popularity, for all age groups.  Whether it’s a family all-inclusive, a European river cruise, a luxury world trip, or an expedition to the stunning Galapagos Islands I can help you plan a cost-effective and tailor-made itinerary

Cruises offer a convenient and all-inclusive way to travel, with everything from accommodation to meals to entertainment included in the price. They also allow travellers to visit multiple destinations in one trip, without having to worry about transportation or accommodation.

Cruises are becoming more affordable, making them a more accessible option for all.  They tend to book up well in advance, so if you are considering trying one, book now for late 2024 or 2025!

3. Wellness Travel

In 2023, I am seeing increased interest in wellness travel, which includes activities such as yoga retreats, spa treatments, and wellness-focused culinary experiences. 

The increasing awareness of the importance of health and well-being, the desire to escape from the stresses of everyday life, and the growing availability of wellness-focused destinations and experiences offer you the opportunity to improve your physical and mental health, reduce stress, and connect with nature. Read more about Wellness Holidays here

4. Experience tourism is on the rise.

This trend is about having a once-in-a-lifetime experience or gaining an emotional connection with cultures and nature. As travellers get tired or bored of cookie-cutter vacations in touristy hot spots, they begin looking for an authentic experience in their travel destination.

People increasingly want to connect with the local culture and people and have experiences that they can't get at home.

• Some examples of experience tourism include:
• Cooking classes with local chefs
• Hiking or biking tours in national parks
• Learning about the local culture through dance, music, or art
• Visiting a traditional village or community
• Learning about the local history and heritage

Experience tourism can be a great way to learn about new cultures, meet new people, and have unforgettable experiences. It can also be a more sustainable way to travel, as it helps to support local economies and communities.

This type of travel is at the heart of what I offer at World Class Adventures.  Adventure means different things to different people and an experience holiday doesn't have to be a big expensive bucket list trip - it can be as simple as trying a new activity or food.  Have a browse of my website or brochures, or just give me a call to find out more!

Hope to hear from you soon!

Bridget