Tap into 2025’s hottest Travel Trends to drive revenue
Unpacking 2025: How to attract the next wave of guests
Image: Natural Phenomena Tourism: A front-row seat to nature’s wonders, Bay of Fundy, Canada. Courtesy of Expedia.
As the travel industry heads into 2025, new trends are reshaping how guests choose their holiday destinations and accommodation. For accommodation business owners and operators, keeping up with these shifts can provide a major competitive advantage.
Recently Expedia Group unveiled Unpack ’25, its annual data-driven outlook for what’s motivating travellers and where they will go next year. The report has revealed key insights into where travellers are going and what they’re looking for.
The new print edition of AccomNews is available now. Read it HERE
Here’s how accommodation providers can engage potential guests by aligning their offerings with these emerging trends.
1. Embrace the rise of Detour Destinations
Travellers in 2025 aren’t just following well-worn paths; they’re exploring less-crowded, hidden gems—what Expedia calls “Detour Destinations.” Places like Reims, France (a detour from Paris) and Krabi, Thailand (a detour from Phuket) have seen a surge in interest, with 63 percent of travellers saying they are likely to visit these lesser-known spots.
How to engage guests: If your property is near an off-the-beaten-path destination, now is the time to promote it. Position your hotel as a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, with marketing that highlights its proximity to scenic, undiscovered locales. Offer “Detour Destination” packages that include day trips to nearby hidden gems, boosting both room bookings and guest experiences.
2. Capture the attention of Goods Getaway seekers
Travellers are increasingly on the hunt for unique, locally sourced goods, creating what Expedia calls the “Goods Getaway” trend. From local delicacies to artisanal crafts, guests are looking to bring back treasures that can’t be found at home.
How to engage guests: Partner with local artisans or farmers to offer exclusive in-room products or organise tours of local markets. Position your hotel as the gateway to discovering the region’s best-kept culinary and craft secrets. Hosting pop-up shops or local tasting events on-site can also attract both travellers and the local community.
3. Tap into the All-Inclusive era
The perception of all-inclusive resorts is evolving, particularly among Gen Z, who crave stress-free, luxury experiences. Expedia reports that 42 percent of Gen Z travellers prefer all-inclusive stays, driven by the simplicity and luxury these packages offer.
How to engage guests: Consider bundling your services into all-inclusive packages that include meals, drinks, activities, and wellness options. Focus on delivering a seamless experience where guests don’t have to worry about a thing, emphasising the ease of booking and the luxurious touches they’ll enjoy during their stay.
4. Capitalise on hotel restaurant renaissance
Hotel restaurants are no longer just an afterthought. Guests are increasingly booking hotels based on the quality of their dining options, with positive reviews of hotel restaurants, chefs, and bars increasing by 40 percent year over year.
How to engage guests: If your hotel has a restaurant, invest in elevating the dining experience. Promote your menu on social media, highlight any local or seasonal ingredients, and engage with influencers or food critics to boost visibility. Offering exclusive guest-only dining experiences or special culinary events can also drive bookings, as many travellers seek out one-of-a-kind meals while on holiday.
5. Appeal to JOMO Travellers
The “Joy of Missing Out” (JOMO) is the antidote to FOMO, and travellers are embracing it by seeking out serene, secluded stays where they can disconnect and unwind. 62 percent of travellers report that JOMO travel helps reduce stress and anxiety.
How to engage guests: If your property is in a peaceful, remote area, now’s the time to shine. Use imagery that showcases your tranquil surroundings, such as serene gardens, private patios, or scenic views. Promote wellness offerings like spa services, yoga retreats, or quiet reading nooks. Offering digital detox packages—where guests are encouraged to disconnect from technology—can also cater to this growing need for calm and relaxation.
6. Natural Phenomena Tourism: A front-row seat to nature’s wonders
Travellers are increasingly seeking unique natural experiences, from stargazing to witnessing the Northern Lights. According to the report, 80 percent of travellers say it’s important that their accommodation offers prime views of these natural wonders.
How to engage guests: If your property is near any natural attractions—whether it’s a dark-sky area, a scenic coastline, or a wildlife hotspot—promote these experiences front and centre. Consider hosting special events tied to natural phenomena, such as stargazing nights or wildlife tours, and ensure guests know that your property provides the perfect vantage point.
7. Harness the power of Set-Jetting
TV shows and films are now major travel inspirations, with two-thirds of travellers saying their travel choices are influenced by on-screen entertainment. Properties near popular filming locations can benefit from this trend, as travellers flock to live out scenes from their favourite shows.
How to engage guests: If your hotel is near a famous filming location, consider partnering with tour operators to offer Set-Jetting experiences. You can also design your own self-guided tours or create packages that highlight famous nearby sites. Promoting your connection to pop culture can help attract this media-savvy crowd.
How to Stand Out in 2025
With these trends shaping travel in 2025, accommodation providers have a golden opportunity to capture the attention of a new generation of guests. By embracing trends like Detour Destinations, Goods Getaways, and JOMO Travel, and offering all-inclusive or unique natural experiences, hotels can appeal to the evolving desires of modern travellers. Ensuring your offerings align with these preferences can drive bookings, increase guest satisfaction, and boost your bottom line.
As the Unpack ’25 report shows, understanding what motivates guests is key to standing out in a crowded market. So, how will you adapt to meet the trends and exceed your guests’ expectations in 2025?
The new print edition of AccomNews is available now. Read it HERE
