Trip.com Group has recently published its innovative "Momentum 2025: Travel’s Next Big Trends" report, aimed at delineation of future travel trends post-pandemic. This report, which analyzed responses from over 6,000 travelers across the Asia-Pacific region, anticipates significant shifts likely to reshape the tourism industry by 2025.
One of the most pressing insights revealed by the report is the growing importance of culinary tourism. Over 60% of Trip.com users are now focusing their travel plans around food experiences, with 62% of respondents eager to explore food festivals and 52% gravitating toward street food tours. Cities rich with culinary offerings, like Bangkok, Tokyo, and Paris, are expected to become epicenters for food enthusiasts. "Food tourism will be the main driver of travel plans, fueled by travelers seeking unique culinary experiences," reported Trip.com Group.
The trend reflects not only the universal love for food but also the increasing desire for travel experiences intertwined with local culture. Travelers from Hong Kong and Singapore, for example, are showing increased interest in street food experiences, whereas visitors from Japan and South Korea often prefer the elegance and comfort of hotel dining.
Another remarkable finding from the report reveals the influence of visual content from movies and television shows on travel choices. According to the findings, about 70% of tourists draw inspiration for their journeys from what they see on screens. "Around 70% of travelers plan their trips inspired by what they see on screens, indicating the strong impact of film and media, especially among millennials," said Trip.com Group. The phenomenon is particularly pronounced among millennials, where 72% attribute their travel planning to media representations, emphasizing the interconnection between lifestyle consumption and travel motivations.
This trend has propelled appearances of famous filming locations across the globe, enticing fans to experience these settings first-hand. For example, recognizable backdrops from popular shows like 'Emily in Paris' and films set in romantic locales are becoming sought after travel destinations.
The cruise sector is also set to experience substantial growth as the industry evolves. With scenic views and onboard entertainment becoming primary attractions, many travelers acknowledge the significance of onboard dining experiences and all-inclusive packages. Reportedly, 44% of travelers prioritize dining options on cruises, pointing to the potential for growth within this market. "The cruise sector is expected to grow significantly, with travelers valuing onboard dining and comprehensive packages," noted the report.
Event tourism is on the rise as well, following mega-events like Taylor Swift's 'Eras Tour,' drawing record-breaking audiences globally. Nearly two-thirds (66%) of travelers are already planning to coordinate their vacations around live performances. The report revealed, "Travel driven by entertainment is poised for growth, as nearly two-thirds of tourists are planning trips around live performances." Such developments showcase the evolution of tourism, where experiences are often centered around participation rather than mere observation.
Social media's influence on travel decisions is another factor emphasized within the report. Viral travel content, especially on platforms like TikTok, plays an increasingly significant role, inspiring around 45% of travelers to select their destinations based on what’s trending online. "Social media influences are reshaping travel choices, with viral trends on platforms like TikTok playing key roles," remarked the insights from the report. This trend underlines how contemporary social interaction reshapes tourism, making it not just about the destination, but the experiences shared online.
The report also identifies micro-trends likely to shape travel preferences, including stargazing, underwater hotels, and AI-driven travel innovations. These innovations represent consumers' growing desire for unique experiences, echoing the sentiment toward immersive travel. Emerging micro-trends such as dark sky stargazing and AI-enhanced travel experiences highlight travelers' desires for both exploration and personalization. "Emerging micro-trends such as dark sky stargazing and AI-driven travel experiences reflect modern travelers’ desires for unique adventures," concluded Trip.com Group.
With these insights, Trip.com Group remains at the forefront of travel innovation, drawing on travelers' wants and needs to curate memorable experiences artfully integrated with technology and culture. Through its "Momentum 2025" strategy, the company is well-positioned to adapt to the changes and capitalize on the growing demand for meaningful travel experiences.