Amadeus has released its travel trends for 2025. Identifying nostalgia and personalization, emergence of unique accommodations revival of Asian tourism, social connections and spontaneity
The report states that travel trends for 2025 highlight a longing for simpler times through nostalgic travel, with a focus on personalised flying experiences that use technology to enhance air travel and offer tailored services.
“Trailblazer Hotels” are becoming travel destinations themselves, attracting visitors with their unique character and local cultural experiences, while boutique hotels are on the rise, providing memorable stays that cater to modern travelers.
With the anticipated recovery of travel in Asia, particularly to China and Thailand, driven by new visa policies and appealing destinations, tourism is set to flourish again in this region, supported by cinematic influences from popular shows like Squid Game and Shōgun .
A growing emphasis on real-life connections encourages solo travelers to seek friendships and experiences through community-oriented travel, spontaneous bookings, and events like World Pride 2025, reinforcing the importance of social interactions in the travel experience.
- New Heydays : This trend reflects a nostalgia for simpler, happier times, encouraging travelers to revisit destinations connected to significant past experiences, such as childhood vacations, honeymoons, or memorable milestones. There’s a strong desire to relive those joyful moments, often invoking aesthetics from eras like the Roaring Twenties.
- Personalized Flying : Future air travel will be significantly more tailored, leveraging technology to offer customized in-flight experiences. Airlines will utilize data to provide personalized entertainment options, curated meals, and enhanced connectivity, like free Wi-Fi powered by satellite systems. A focus will be on delivering a more immersive and enjoyable journey for passengers.
- Trailblazer Hotels : Hotels are evolving into destinations themselves, showcasing unique identity and charisma that attract visitors. Travelers are increasingly seeking accommodations that offer local culture and distinctive experiences. These “Trailblazer Hotels” can be independent or part of larger chains and are becoming central to travel itineraries.
- Asia Uplift : The recovery of travel to and from Asia, particularly China, is anticipated to reach pre-2019 levels by 2025, revitalizing global tourism. China’s extended visa-free travel policies and the introduction of new luxury hotels aim to attract foreign tourists. The post-pandemic landscape sees a surge in visitors, aided by favorable currency conditions and increased connectivity among airlines.
- Thailand Takes Center Stage : In 2025, Thailand is projected to become a leading tourism destination, largely due to the popularity of the TV series The White Lotus set there, along with new luxury hotel openings. The introduction of a digital nomad visa and expanded visa-free entry for 93 countries will further boost tourism, with ambitious goals of attracting 36 million international visitors in 2024 and 40 million in 2025.
- Cinematic Tourism in Asia : Popular television shows like Squid Game in South Korea and Shōgun in Japan are expected to drive tourism by inspiring viewers to visit filming locations. Significant events such as Expo 2025 in Osaka will also contribute to heightened interest in Japan, while South Korea’s cultural allure continues to resonate globally.
- Connections IRL (In Real Life) : A growing trend has emerged where individuals seek authentic connections beyond digital dating. With rising numbers of solo travelers and increased interest in meeting new people, many are opting for travel as a means to forge real-life relationships. Companies like Road Scholar and G Adventures are creating travel experiences that encourage social interactions, while dating app Breeze promotes in-person conversations only.
- Spontaneous Travel Experiences : As the travel landscape shifts, more people are booking last-minute flights and accommodations, making spontaneous travel a prominent trend. This includes solo travelers planning “me-moons” to romantic destinations such as Paris and the Maldives. Hotels with communal spaces and social-centric events are becoming popular, as travelers look to meet others while engaging in shared experiences.
- Emerging Social Travel Offerings : Group travel companies like Contiki and Flash Pack are emphasizing friendship and community-building as fundamental aspects of their itineraries. These tours, often tailored for solo travelers, provide opportunities for bonding through activities, further appealing to those looking for connections while traveling.
- LGBTQ+ Festival Tourism : Events like World Pride 2025 in Washington D.C. are drawing significant crowds and fostering inclusive travel experiences. The hospitality industry is responding by creating spaces and events that cater specifically to LGBTQ+ communities, emphasizing both representation and celebration.
- Boutique and Social Hotels : The rise of “Trailblazer Hotels” offers travelers distinct, character-filled accommodations that often become attractions in their own right. These unique hotels emphasize localized experiences and are part of the growing boutique hotel market, which appeals strongly to modern travelers seeking memorable stays.
- Digital Nomadism and Workation Trends : With the introduction of digital nomad visas in several countries, more individuals are blending work and leisure travel. Destinations are becoming appealing for long-term stays as they support remote working conditions, fostering a community of nomadic professionals.
- Luxury Wireless Connectivity During Travel : Advances in technology, such as SpaceX’s Starlink, are enhancing connectivity on flights, making it easier for travelers to stay connected and work while in transit. This trend will allow airlines to offer high-speed internet to passengers, transforming how travelers experience air travel.
- Increased Focus on Experiential Travel : Travelers are increasingly seeking experiences that provide personal growth and learning, such as cultural tours, adventure travel, and classes, rather than just traditional sightseeing. This trend prioritizes meaningful interactions and new skills over passive consumption.
- Last-Minute Booking Trends : There is a noticeable increase in travelers opting for shorter booking windows, leading to a rise in last-minute reservations for flights and accommodations. This spontaneity reflects a desire for flexible travel plans and on-the-go decision-making.
- Social-Centric Festival Tourism : Festivals that encourage social interaction, whether through music, arts, or culture, are gaining popularity. Travelers are increasingly interested in events that foster community and creativity, making them integral to the travel experience in the coming years.
See full report here
