Holiday season has arrived, and everyone is waiting for the new year. Many plan to ring in 2024 with a bang through partying, while others tend to stay removed from crowds by going on a vacation. Goa is the unofficial party center for every New Year’s party in India, but people’s tastes can change at any moment. And for the coming 365 days, industry experts predict some modifications in travel and tourism trends.

Hyperlocal Trips

Domestic destinations are going to rule the charts this year, no matter your nationality. Globally, countries reel under natural calamities or political threats, and in such situations, it is sensible you prefer local and hyperlocal trips. These tours are highly curated with a detailed itinerary of 5-10 days or micro tours of 1 day, panning your nearest attractions. 

You can try under-explored and exotic places where you get an understanding of the local culture. For instance, Bogata waterfalls in Warangal, Telangana, or Sri Chandramouleshwara Temple, Unkal, Karnataka offer a glimpse of mesmerizing scenic views and grand temple architecture.

Sustainable Tourism

Cruises will see a down curve, per data. Environmental damage and climate change will gain more awareness, and hence, travelers will seek more sustainable options. So, ecotourism will flourish. It will extend to more than avoiding single-use plastic or sorting out your trash. For instance, you could visit Mawlynnong village in Meghalaya, one of the cleanest in Asia.

Minimizing air travel and choosing other modes like the train will help reduce your carbon footprint, and so will staying in one place for a longer period. Sustainable travel alternatives like reusable food containers and packing lighter luggage are some ways people are increasingly adopting.

Wellness and Transformation

Wellness packages and spa getaways are already a hit with the crowds focusing on their transformation. Health-conscious people wish to be in good shape even while they are vacationing – so, hikes, adventures, and biking are a must in their to-do list. Yoga or meditation camps, cultural explorations, writer’s retreats, cooking or painting workshops, etc. that happen at a hip and peaceful destination can boost your well-being. 

Help from Generative AI

ChatGPT and similar AI tools are already making people’s lives a bit easier, whether at work or home. Even travelers are making use of AI for browsing, researching, comparing, and budgeting their perfect getaway. Particularly in the coming year, AI usage will be widespread in the tourism department.

Europe Still Rules

Even with the war, earthquakes, and other upheavals, Europe remains a hot favorite for travel destinations. Its extraordinary popularity is unbeatable because of its unique charm and diverse culture. London, Paris, Berlin, and Belgium have always been top contenders, but this year, Greece and Spain will be busy.

Gems like Slovenia and Romania offer historical appeal and are less crowded. These beautiful landscapes have come onto tourists’ radar through OTT shows and movies. Binge watchers like to visit these filming locations in a phenomenon called set-jetting. So, where are you going this year?