The work-life boundaries are slowly starting to blur, and as they do, the lines between business and personal travel do as well. The hybrid trend of “bleisure travel” is becoming increasingly popular as professionals around the globe are adding days to work trips.

Business Travel + Leisure Travel = Bleisure Travel

One of the biggest trends in 2023 is “set-jetting.” The concept is where many travelers decide to visit destinations featured in their favorite TV shows and movies and using them as a springboard for exciting new travel destinations for vacations during the duration of 2023.

Set-Jetting

While ‘bleisure’ travel has become increasingly popular, a new trend has hit the travel industry. ‘Lisness’ is where travelers plan leisure trips with time for work. With the ability to work more flexibly, from anywhere, more and more travelers are extending their trips into month-long ventures with a 75 percent/25 percent leisure/business split. This approach allows for more time to decompress and reintegrate into normal life, all while enjoying the best of both worlds.

Lisness

As a major foodie, I am really excited to talk about this trend in the travel industry. This year we have seen a spike in people choosing their next travel destination based on the cuisines and restaurants they want to eat. From top restaurants, to local favorites, to wine tastings, and cooking classes, one of the best ways to learn about a place and its local culture is through an authentic and delicious dining experience.

Delicious Destinations

The rise of remote workers and digital nomads has taken the travel industry by storm. Many people are embracing the freedom to work from anywhere and are exploring new cities and countries all over the world. As the number of remote workers and digital nomads continues to rise, traditional tourism patterns have been disrupted. Instead of adhering to the typical vacation schedule of a week or two off work, remote workers can now extend their stays in different destinations for longer periods, transforming how they experience and engage with the places they visit.

Digital Nomad

With the spike in remote workers, unlimited PTO, and work hour flexibility, many people are taking advantage of this by planning extended getaways. Gone are the days of rushed week-long trips; instead, travelers are opting for immersive experiences that allow them to fully unwind and explore their chosen destinations. This shift towards longer vacations reflects a desire for a more balanced approach to work and leisure, where individuals can recharge and create lasting memories in the process.

Longer Vacations

We've come to expect fast, efficient services that are accessible at our fingertips, right from the convenience of our phones and devices. Hotels are letting you book rooms, unlock doors, and order room service all from your mobile device. Hotel rooms have in-room technology that allows you to connect your favorite streaming apps to the TV in the room. Airlines are leveraging technology to enhance your journey by providing real-time updates on the whereabouts of your luggage. Plus, airline apps are notifying you when it's time to board your group, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.

Tech & Travel

Travelers are seeking authentic experiences that go beyond tourist hotspots. They crave the chance to explore hidden gems, taste local culture, and uncover secrets only known to locals. But it's more than wanderlust; it's about making a positive impact. Travelers want their choices to support local communities and make a difference in the places they visit.

Off the Beaten Path

Many travelers in 2024 want to travel to rest and recharge. Making sleep a priority has travelers wanting to focus on their routines while they are traveling. Access to healthy snacks and incorporating exercise are becoming priorities for many travelers. Adjusting your schedule to your new time zone ahead of time can also greatly impact your sleep during your travels.

Investing in Sleep

Traditionally, vacations have been synonymous with sun-seeking adventures in hot climates. However, recent heatwaves have led to a shift in traveler preferences. In the last year, there has been a surge in the popularity of “coolcations,” where people are traveling to milder climates and visiting places less crowded. Many travelers in 2024 are considering cooler destinations like Iceland, Finland, Scotland, and Latvia.

Coolcationing

In 2024, sports tourism is emerging as a vibrant trend, captivating travelers from across the globe. Melding the excitement of athletic competition with the allure of exploration, from Formula One races to the Summer Olympic Games, FIFA World Cup, Wimbledon, and the Tour De France, traveling to attend major sporting events is on the rise. These events attract millions of visitors each year, generating significant economic impact for host cities and countries.

Travel Trends