Travel Trends: A Year of Immersive Journeys and Meaningful Explorations
As we step into 2025, the world of travel continues to evolve, embracing innovative ways to connect with art, culture, and the natural world. From the explosion of immersive art experiences to the rise of First Nations tourism, this year’s trends promise deeply enriching adventures that go beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, savoUring the simplicity of soft travel, or hopping aboard a historic train, 2025 is a year for travelers seeking both depth and delight.
The Art of Immersion
Art has always been a driver of travel, inspiring journeys to blockbuster exhibitions and museum showcases. Remember the lines outside the British Museum for the 1972 Treasures of Tutankhamun exhibit or the sell-out crowds for Amsterdam’s Vermeer collection? This tradition of art-fuelled travel is taking a futuristic turn with immersive art shows that blend technology, architecture, and creativity.
The Sphere in Las Vegas has set the standard for experiential art, offering dazzling visuals that reimagine how we engage with historic and contemporary works. Now, 2025 welcomes new players to the scene: TeamLab in Abu Dhabi is opening its doors, promising multi-sensory experiences that defy convention. Similarly, Hamburg’s CultureSpaces and the ARoS Museum in Aarhus are unveiling immersive wings designed to transport visitors into otherworldly realms. And let’s not forget the cultural phenomenon of the Elvis Immersive Experience, set to debut in May, which is sure to captivate fans with a larger-than-life homage to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Natural Wonders: Chasing Light Shows
The celestial allure of the aurora borealis has long enchanted travelers, but 2025 promises to be one of the best years in recent history to witness the northern lights. Luxury travel brands like Scott Dunn are already fielding inquiries from guests eager to capture this ephemeral wonder. Meanwhile, eclipse chasing—a niche but growing trend—is gaining momentum. This March, travelers will flock to Spain and other prime viewing locations to catch a glimpse of a rare partial solar eclipse, blending adventure and astronomy for an unforgettable experience.
First Nations Tourism: Owning the Narrative
Indigenous culture is finally stepping into the spotlight on its own terms. First Nations tourism is rewriting the narrative, allowing local communities to share their stories authentically. In Canada, Entrée Destinations’ Stories of Canada itineraries explore the richness of indigenous heritage, while the Tla’amin-owned Lund Resort offers an intimate look at their traditions. In the South Pacific, New Caledonia’s InterContinental resort is a testament to collaboration with local tribes, incorporating native design and cultural elements. On the high seas, Hurtigruten is elevating Sami culinary traditions by appointing a Sami culinary ambassador aboard its cruises. These initiatives reflect a broader shift toward responsible, respectful travel that uplifts the voices of First Nations peoples.
The Joy of Missing Out: JOMO and Soft Travel
In a world that often glorifies busy itineraries and endless bucket lists, the joy of missing out (JOMO) is redefining how we vacation. JOMO invites travelers to step back, embrace simplicity, and find pleasure in doing less. Enter soft travel—the art of savoring life’s quieter moments. Inspired by the #softlife trend that has garnered over 228,000 posts on TikTok, soft travel prioritizes unhurried exploration, meaningful connections, and mindfulness.
Imagine wandering through a sunlit vineyard, lingering over a cup of locally brewed coffee, or simply listening to the waves crash on a secluded shore. This approach resonates with those yearning to escape the frenetic pace of modern life and reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.
Quiet Travel: A Solo Adventure
For those seeking solitude, quiet travel is emerging as another transformative trend. This style of travel emphasizes introspection and personal growth, encouraging solo journeys where the focus is on inner peace rather than outward excitement. From serene retreats to secluded hikes, quiet travel is a chance to disconnect from the digital noise and immerse oneself in the present moment.
Train Travel: Romance on the Rails
Train travel remains a perennial favorite among discerning travelers, and 2025 brings a new level of luxury to the rails. The Orient Express La Dolce Vita is set to roll out, offering opulent journeys through Italy’s most breathtaking landscapes. Combining timeless elegance with modern comfort, this revival of the golden age of rail travel is perfect for those who crave a sense of nostalgia alongside their adventure.
Looking Ahead
The travel trends of 2025 reflect a growing desire for experiences that are both transformative and sustainable. From cutting-edge art installations to a renewed appreciation for indigenous heritage, today’s travelers are seeking deeper connections with the places they visit. Whether you’re chasing the aurora borealis, exploring the stories of First Nations communities, or finding joy in stillness, this year’s adventures promise to inspire and uplift. So, where will 2025 take you? Whether it’s the heart of an immersive art installation, the quiet corners of a remote retreat, or the timeless romance of a train carriage, the possibilities are as boundless as your imagination.
Rick Jordan is a contributing editor at Condé Nast Traveller, a title he has worked for during the past two decades, and writes for The Telegraph, the Independent and various other publications. Follow Rick on Instagram at @rickcjordan.
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