Where to Go, What to Do: The Latest Travel Trends for 2023 According to Industry Experts
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As we look ahead to the new year, it’s natural to start thinking about our travel plans for 2023. And if you’re like many travelers, you may wonder what the top trends will be in the coming year. Well, wonder no more! We’ve scoured the latest insights from industry experts such as Expedia, Hotels.com, and VRBO to bring you the inside scoop on what you can expect when it comes to travel in 2023.
Travelers are focusing on experiences
As we look ahead to 2023, travelers are increasingly focusing on the experiences they’ll have on their trips rather than just the destinations they’ll be visiting. This trend, which the 2023 travel trends report has reported, is a shift from the traditional way of thinking about travel, where the destination itself was the main attraction.
But what exactly are these “experiences” that travelers are so interested in? Well, it looks like adventure sports, cultural activities, and wellness retreats are all set to be popular choices in the coming year. Adventure sports include things like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, or skydiving, while cultural activities encompass everything from museum visits and guided tours to culinary classes and local festivals. As for wellness retreats, these are typically focused on promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being through activities like yoga, meditation, and nature walks.
If you’re planning a trip for 2023 and want to get in on this trend, now is the time to start thinking about the types of experiences that appeal to you and then start looking for destinations that offer those opportunities.
Growth of Boutique Hotels
If you’re a traveler who values unique and personalized experiences, you’ll be glad to know that boutique hotels are on the rise. These smaller, stylish hotels offer a more intimate and luxurious alternative to traditional chain hotels, and they’re becoming increasingly popular with travelers looking for something a little different.
According to this article, boutique hotel chains such as Habitas are experiencing significant growth, with new locations opening up in various locations around the world. So, no matter where you’re headed on your next trip, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find a boutique hotel option in your destination of choice.
But what makes boutique hotels such an excellent option for travelers? For starters, they often offer a more personalized and intimate experience, with fewer rooms and a more laid-back atmosphere. Many boutique hotels also pride themselves on providing stylish and unique design elements, making them a great choice for travelers who value aesthetics. And because they’re usually smaller in size, boutique hotels are often able to offer more personalized service, which can make a big difference when it comes to making your trip feel unique and memorable.
So, if you’re seeking a more intimate and luxurious travel experience, keep an eye out for boutique hotel options in your destination of choice. With their unique atmosphere and personalized service, they’re sure to make your trip one to remember.


Increase in travel spending
If you’re planning a trip for 2023, it’s important to remember that travel spending is expected to increase compared to previous years. According to a report by the U.S. Travel Foundation, this increase may be due to pent-up demand for travel after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What does this mean for travelers? Essentially, you may need to be prepared for higher prices and more competition for travel deals. With more people looking to get out and explore the world after months of lockdowns and restrictions, demand for flights, hotels, and other travel services is likely to be high. As a result, you may need to budget a little more carefully and start looking for deals as early as possible.
One way to save money on your trip is by being flexible with your travel dates. Many airlines and hotels offer discounts for travelers who are willing to be flexible with their travel plans, so if you have the option to be a little bit flexible with your schedule, it might be worth considering. Another tip is to sign up for alerts from travel websites and companies, which can often alert you to special deals and promotions as soon as they become available.
Remember to keep these tips in mind as you start budgeting and looking for deals. By being prepared for higher prices and being flexible with your travel dates, you can help ensure you get the best value for your money. Happy travels!
Personalization and customization
Personalization and customization are becoming increasingly important to travelers in 2023, according to the Travel Trends Report by Expedia, Hotels.com, and VRBO. This trend is being driven by a desire for more unique and memorable travel experiences, as well as a recognition that everyone has different interests and preferences when it comes to travel.
So, what does this trend mean for travelers in 2023? Essentially, it means that you can expect to see more options for personalized and customized travel experiences, such as private tours, tailored itineraries, and personalized amenities. This could include things like customized travel packages that are tailored to your interests and preferences, personalized recommendations for activities and attractions, and personalized service from hotels and other travel providers.
One example of this trend is the above-mentioned growth of boutique hotels, which are known for their personalized and unique experiences. Another example is the increasing use of data and technology to offer personalized recommendations and tailor the travel experience to the individual traveler. For example, a travel website or app might use data about a traveler’s past destinations, preferences, and behaviors to recommend hotels, activities, and restaurants tailored to their interests.
This trend towards personalized and customized travel experiences is also being facilitated by using artificial intelligence and chatbots, which can provide tailored assistance and recommendations to travelers, such as help with booking and planning a customized itinerary.
Overall, this trend towards personalized and customized travel experiences in 2023 means that travelers can expect more options for unique and tailored travel experiences that cater to their individual interests and preferences.
Sustainable Tourism
Sustainable tourism is set to be a major trend in 2023 as more travelers become conscious of their environmental impact and the importance of responsible travel. As such, there will likely be an increased focus on eco-friendly accommodations, local and sustainable food options, conservation efforts, and other practices aimed at reducing the negative impacts of tourism on the planet. Eco-friendly accommodations could include hotels and resorts that use renewable energy sources, have water conservation initiatives, and employ eco-friendly building materials.


Local and sustainable food options may involve sourcing ingredients from the local area or supporting restaurants that prioritize organic, seasonal foods. Conservation efforts include supporting local wildlife preservation or participating in beach cleanups during your trip. Responsible tourism practices could include:
- Conducting research on the region before you visit.
- Booking with ethical tour operators.
- Avoiding activities that promote animal cruelty or exploitation.
So, if you’re looking to make your travels in 2023 more sustainable and responsible, plenty of options are available to help you achieve that goal.
What are the top 2023 travel trends?
In conclusion, 2023 is looking to be a fantastic year for travelers. With the continued growth of boutique hotels, increased focus on personalization and customization, and a newfound emphasis on sustainable tourism practices, you can expect unique and memorable experiences while traveling in 2023. Whether it’s exploring new cities or embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, you can take advantage of all the trends 2023 has to offer and come back with not just memories but also a sense of fulfillment. So plan ahead and make this your best travel year yet!