- Destinations
- Experiences
- Stay
- What's new
- Editor’s Picks
- Responsible Tourism
- CampaignsCampaigns
- Subscribe
Change is happening rapidly on several fronts. From global elections to advancements in artificial intelligence and rising living costs, it’s no surprise that people often feel fatigued and seek to withdraw, take sides, or simply disconnect. However, despite the increasing uncertainty, isolation, and polarisation in the world, we’re witnessing a different trend in travel. Booking.com’s annual Travel Predictions research reveals that many travellers are eager to redefine how they experience and engage with the world around them instead of retreating.
In 2025, travellers are transforming their vacation approach, breaking conventional norms. This shift allows them to establish profound connections with themselves, their loved ones, the people they meet, and the unique places they explore. Challenging societal expectations around age, gender, and what a "typical" getaway entails, these adventurous individuals embrace new patterns that enrich their lives. Their journeys are not just trips; they are powerful vehicles for personal growth and self-discovery that fuel lasting change.
To gain insights into how people intend to break free from the status quo, Booking.com commissioned research involving over 27,000 travellers across 33 countries, including India. The findings present nine travel predictions that suggest 2025 will mark the beginning of new ways to experience the world. From millennials reimagining the airport experience to baby boomers embarking on thrill-seeking adventures, travel increasingly focuses on self-discovery and forming deep connections. Here are the key trends poised to shape the travel industry in 2025:
2025 is the year of stargazing our way into new astro-adventures. The trend of ‘Noctourism’ (nocturnal tourism) refers to travelling to experience the night in all its glory. With space tourism edging ever closer to reality, travellers will be focused on building connections with the universe as they turn to more attainable astro-pursuits next year. Ditching the daylight crowds for midnight magic, 78 per cent of Indian travellers are interested in visiting dark sky destinations for stargazing and constellation tracking.
The study found that 76 per cent are willing to travel for once-in-a-lifetime celestial events; 69 per cent prefer vacationing in cooler locations due to climate change concerns; 79 per cent plan activities during cooler hours, and 73 per cent aim to reduce sun exposure. An appreciation for the nocturnal world is also deepening travellers’ connections with nature, with 72 per cent seeking accommodations with minimal light pollution to preserve nature.
As travellers seek the elixir of life, vacations are evolving beyond mere opportunities to unwind. In 2025, wellness will encompass more than just yoga mats and smoothies. Driven by the desire to make better lifestyle choices, 83 per cent of Indian travellers express interest in longevity retreats for deep revitalisation—transforming traditional wellness itineraries into experiences focused on achieving a longer, healthier life. The study reveals that 79 per cent are willing to invest in vacations to extend their lifespan and overall well-being. Deep revitalisation is a top priority, with interest in various therapies, including body vibration therapy (78 per cent), cryotherapy (70 per cent), red light therapy (66 per cent), and stem cell treatment (64 per cent). Additionally, 85 per cent of respondents are eager to discover new wellness activities to incorporate into their daily lives, such as timed coffee ingestion (56 per cent) and IV therapy (50 per cent), as they work toward reconnecting with a more balanced version of themselves.
New technologies are already helping travellers find experiences tailored to their needs. By 2025, we will see people using powerful AI tools, such as Booking.com’s AI Trip Planner, to create alternative itineraries based on personal preferences and the specific requirements of their chosen destinations. These itineraries will foster deeper connections with local communities and promote broader environmental awareness. Research shows that 90 per cent of Indians will utilise technology to make informed decisions and discover authentic experiences. This approach respects the places they visit and contributes positively to them. Additionally, 83 per cent of individuals seek technology to locate less crowded areas, and 40 per cent rely on apps for real-time assistance. Furthermore, 57 per cent of Gen Z and 56 per cent of Millennials would reconsider visiting over-touristed destinations, while 19 per cent avoid tagging locations on social media to protect lesser-known sites.
The next generation may want to start saving for their own travel experiences. The trend of spending kids' inheritances (SKI) is expected to continue in 2025, with nearly half of Indian travellers (46 per cent) preferring to spend their money on bucket-list trips rather than leaving an inheritance for their children. This sentiment is especially strong among baby boomers, with 37 per cent expressing the same preference. Additionally, 84 per cent of Indians recognise the importance of intergenerational travel. Baby boomers are often willing to fund trips for their children (79 per cent) and grandchildren (59 per cent). Overall, shared experiences are prioritised over material possessions.
Gender norms and expectations are becoming increasingly fluid, and this shift is also expected to extend into the travel industry. With growing societal awareness around male mental health, men-only retreats focusing on well-being and personal growth are likely to become more prevalent in 2025. A majority of Indians (79 per cent) stated they would encourage the men in their lives to go on a men-only trip. Men are seeking travel primarily for personal growth (41 per cent), stress reduction (35 per cent), rest and rejuvenation (34 per cent), and to prioritize mental health benefits (39 per cent). Additionally, 43 per cent of men are looking to make new friendships, while 38 per cent aim to improve their relationship-building skills with friends and family. Furthermore, 31 per cent are considering a men-only trip to address feelings of loneliness. Women actively encourage the men to take these trips, with 69 per cent urging their partners, 37 per cent encouraging their friends, 30 per cent their brothers, and 22 per cent their fathers to prioritize themselves.
If you believe that the excitement and challenges of travel are only for younger generations, it's time to reconsider—adventure knows no age limit! In 2025, baby boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964) are transforming the concept of travel later in life. Thirty per cent of baby boomers express interest in high-adrenaline activities, a significant increase from just 11 per cent in 2024. Popular high-octane pursuits among this group include sand surfing (42 per cent), skydiving (34 per cent), cave diving (36 per cent), camping in Antarctica (22 per cent), and even volcano boarding (22 per cent). One in four boomers is eager to push their comfort zones and reconnect with their adventurous spirit.
Travellers with neurodivergent needs are advocating for a more inclusive approach to travel, and significant progress is expected by 2025. The study found that 76 per cent of Indians believe that travel options are limited for neurodivergent individuals; 70 per cent of neurodivergent travellers have experienced negative travel situations; 79 per cent are looking for AI tools that provide personalised travel information and recommendations; 77 per cent desire sensory rooms in airports and hotels; 75 per cent prefer noise-cancelling options for a more calming travel experience; and 78 per cent want industry-wide initiatives to address the needs of neurodivergent individuals.
Sustainability and careful budgeting will be key focuses for 2025, and one trend reflecting this is "vintage voyaging." In 2025, vacation wardrobes will transform as trendy Indians embrace vintage finds, visiting thrift stores on holiday to create a more sustainable suitcase. The study revealed that 68 per cent of Indian travellers are more interested in vacation shopping during their trips compared to previous years. Additionally, 78 per cent are tightening their budgets to maximize their travel experiences, while 62 per cent plan to be thriftier during their trips, seeking hidden gems in second-hand stores. Furthermore, 46 per cent of travellers feel they find better quality and value in vintage products abroad than at home, and 42 per cent buy vintage items during their travels because they discover better bargains.
Gone are the days of arriving just in time to avoid lingering in crowded lounges after security. Indian travellers are reimagining their 2025 vacations by embracing a new era of airport entertainment. This year, airports will take centre stage as travellers seek destinations with exceptional airport experiences. The study found that 84 per cent of Indian travellers are interested in airports that offer unique experiences and facilities, while 63 per cent would choose their vacation destinations based on airport amenities. Millennials and Gen Z show a particular interest in features such as sleep pods (38 per cent of Millennials and 34 per cent of Gen Z), spas (39 per cent for both groups), and Michelin-star restaurants (27 per cent of Millennials and 23 per cent of Gen Z). Furthermore, 83 per cent of respondents believe that a more comprehensive array of airport facilities would reduce travel stress, allowing the vacation experience to begin well before boarding the plane.
