While the previous year in the travel landscape was about vengeance and revival, 2023 is expected to see tourists delving deeper into these experiences.

As we prepare our year’s bucket lists, industry experts discuss the travel trends that are expected to grow bigger and better.

The year 2022 provided much-needed respite for travelers as the world reopened after a long pandemic-induced hiatus. While the past year in the travel landscape has been about vengeance and revival, 2023 is expected to see tourists delving deeper into these experiences. As we plan our bucket lists for the year, industry experts discuss the travel trends that are expected to grow in size and importance:

Sustainability: The pandemic has prompted a renewed emphasis on environmentally conscious travel. “One of the main criteria for 2023 will be sustainability. “Travelers may be inspired to plan trips that have a low impact on the planet and its resources, as well as book eco-friendly accommodations and use sustainable modes of transportation,” says Elia San Martin, vice president and general manager of APAC at KAYAK. Immersive travel, which involves becoming immersed in a community’s culture and way of life, is also expected to dominate the travel scene.

Workations: Combining work and vacation is another trend that is expected to gain traction in the future, aided by the work-from-home or hybrid models that have been implemented at several workplaces. “There has been an increase in the length of stay of the traveller in the last two years due to the hybrid work model,” says Pallavi Agarwal, founder and CEO of goSTOPS. So, workations are here to stay, allowing people to travel to new places while working.”

Self-care is likely to remain a priority for travelers, making wellness retreats an increasingly appealing option. “This could include yoga and meditation retreats, fitness and nutrition-focused vacations, and spa and relaxation getaways,” says Arun Ashok, regional manager of Luxury Escapes in India and the Middle East.

Immersive travel: The practice of completely immersing oneself in a location’s culture and way of life is expected to continue. “These include volunteering, extensive itineraries, cultural and heritage tours, as well as forms of tourism that focus on experiencing local culture firsthand,” Ashok adds.

Religious travel: Culture and religion have always been major draws for travelers, particularly in India. According to Aditya Gupta, senior vice president, Hotels and Holidays at Yatra.com, this trend will continue in 2023. “India has a rich and diversified tourism potential, and the religious heritage provides a unique tourism opportunity. Various schemes and initiatives launched by the Indian government have enabled travelers to complete their religious bucket lists,” says Gupta. Domestic destinations include Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Gangotri in Uttarakhand, and Shirdi in Maharashtra.

Traveling with your partner: “Post-pandemic, there has been an increase in the couple travel trend as they prefer to indulge in unique experiences. “We anticipate that this trend will continue to grow as people look forward to more once-in-a-lifetime trips,” he adds.

Hidden gems: “People will consider accommodations not only in the heart of the destination, but also in close proximity (within 50 kilometers) of the main destination. When travelling to Darjeeling, for instance, tourists will explore options in Kalimpong, Kurseong and Mirik,” informs Vipul Prakash, COO, MakeMyTrip.

Thematic holidays over traditional itineraries: He also adds, “In the coming year, the concept of romantic holidays will give way to theme-led holidays such as ‘royal a heritage,’ ‘wildlife safari and adventure,’ and more.”

“The year 2023 is all set to see the best of’revenge tourism,’ with people aiming for more adventurous and wilder experiences,” says Sandeep Arora, Head of Brightsun Travel Private Limited.

Weekend getaway: Taking a weekend trip combines the excitement of a vacation with the thrill of a road trip. “In 2022, about 61% of Indian tourists visited nearby weekend getaway spots in just a span of 10 months,” says Sharad K Upadhyay, general manager, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, adding, “We are going to see a rise in this trend of driving to nearby destinations.”

International trips: “We have seen pre-bookings for international flights that are 30% higher when compared to the last year. “The increase is due to the pent-up demand caused by Covid-19, which has resulted in revenge travel as well as increased travel curiosity,” says Rikant Pittie, co-founder of EaseMyTrip.

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