10 TRENDS SHAPING ECO TRAVEL
Avoiding the masses
Overtourism, the excessive, intolerable number of tourists in one destination, is one of the most advert phenomena that need to be addressed to achieve sustainable tourism. Exploring alternative destinations or visiting destinations during off-peak rather than peak seasons, are two of the main ways to avoid the masses, enjoy a more pleasurable travel experience, and minimize environmental and sociocultural pressures on destinations.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of health and safety measures and the significance of their proper implementation. Travelers are on the lookout for destinations and businesses that take precautions to ensure the health and safety of guests while visiting, including cleanliness, operating in low occupancy, social distancing measures, and personal protective equipment.
Reconnecting with nature
Following the pandemic, increasingly more and more individuals are interested in spending more time outdoors, which can have significant physical, mental and spiritual benefits. From preferring remote locations to engaging in nature-related activities such as hiking, travellers are integrating the great outdoors into their trips.
Sustainable luxury
With both luxury and sustainability becoming increasingly important for travellers, the combination of the two emerges as a trend in the travel industry.
With food loss being a major sustainability issue, travelers are educating themselves on how to reduce food waste and are adopting healthier, more sustainable diets, selecting smaller portions and learning the meaning of different food labels.
Regenerative tourism
Besides solely minimizing their negative footprint while there, travellers are increasingly interested in learning how they can leave a destination better than when they arrived. Regenerative tourism and destination stewardship engage visitors in activities that directly benefit local communities.
Cultural immersion
Increasingly more and more travellers are seeking authentic experiences and wish to learn more about the local culture and local customs and traditions, staying away from popular tourist attractions.
Accessibility and inclusivity are rightfully gaining importance in the travel industry. Businesses in the hospitality and tourism industry are breaking down barriers to welcome minority groups while simultaneously ensuring that all individuals feel accepted, supported and appreciated once at the destination. The industry is making progress in ensuring that all people, regardless of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, or other factors, are welcome.
Travel methods & transportation
Travelers are becoming more conscious of the carbon footprint of their transportation, resulting in alternative travel methods to gain ground. Visiting destinations near one’s home or using public transportation once there, are becoming more common. Even with airlines urging travelers to “fly responsibly” the aim is not to shame consumers but rather to encourage them to be more conscious of the impact of their decisions.
Sustainability at the forefront
Sustainability is becoming a standard consideration for visitors when booking their trips and hotel stay. Travellers are increasingly researching and booking low-impact properties, travel methods and experiences for their holidays.