AI-Tineraries, Authenti-cities, and Earth-Friendly Escapes

• Travel trends in 2025 are expected to be dominated by AI-powered itineraries, lesser-known destinations, and sustainable experiences. 
• Based on an analysis of UK search data, New York City, Singapore, and the Maldives are predicted to be the most trending destinations for Brits in 2025.

The hotel and travel industry is constantly in flux, forever influenced by travelers’ changing preferences, aspirations, and needs worldwide. 2025 is poised to introduce several exciting trends that will significantly shape the industry and redefine how people travel. These trends, driven by technological advancements, environmental consciousness, and evolving consumer behavior, have been identified through an extensive analysis of UK search data, survey insights, and keyword search volumes.

One of the standout trends of 2025 is the rise of AI-tineraries. According to an Accor survey, 13% of Brits are expected to utilize AI-powered tools for their travel planning in 2025. The tremendous growth in the use of AI in the travel industry can be attributed to features such as effortless trip planning and real-time adaptability that these AI tools offer, making trip planning a breeze for travelers.

Regarding destination preferences, 2025 will see a marked shift towards lesser-known locations or ‘Authenti-cities’. 58% of Brits are expected to prioritize traveling to these hidden gems over popular tourist hotspots. This trend is driven by the desire to escape over-tourism and experience meaningful, personal adventures in underexplored locations.

Sustainable travel, or ‘Earth-Friendly Escapes,’ is another trend gaining momentum. In 2025, 28% of Brits plan to embark on sustainable travel. Rising environmental awareness, coupled with travellers’ desire for authenticity, is fuelling this trend.

The advent of remote work has given rise to ‘Work-Play Wanderlust,’ with 16% of Brits planning to combine work and leisure travel. This trend is facilitated by remote work’s flexibility and the proliferation of digital nomad visas.

Solo travel, or ‘Solo Sojourns’, is also trending, with 24% of Brits planning solo trips in 2025. The sense of empowerment, personal growth, and increased flexibility offered by solo travel attracts more and more travelers to this trend.

Food-focused travel, or ‘Tasty Travels,’ is another growing trend. 32% of Brits are keen on trips centered around foodie experiences. Travelers increasingly use food as a cultural gateway and seek regional delicacies, Michelin-starred restaurants, and hidden culinary gems.

Wellness retreat weekends, or ‘Wellbeing Weekenders,’ are gaining popularity. Thirty-one percent of Brits express the desire to undertake one. The rising focus on mental and physical well-being is driving this trend.

Another interesting trend is ‘Athletic Adventures’. 18% of Brits plan to travel for sports, combining their love for recreational sports with their passion for travel. The globalization of sporting events and the desire for fitness challenges drive this trend.

Music lovers will also be on the move, with 32% of Brits keen to undertake a musical travel venture or ‘Musical Pilgrimages’ in 2025. The globalization of music events and the growing concept of music tourism are behind this trend.

Movie and TV show fans are also getting in on the act with ‘Set-Jetting’. With film and TV becoming more popular, 24% of Brits are keen to visit the filming locations of their favourite shows.

In terms of trending destinations for 2025, New York City, Singapore, and the Maldives are expected to be the most popular among Brits. Based on search and media trend scores, these destinations scored highest in the research.

These trends, derived from extensive research and analysis, provide valuable insights into the changing landscape of the hotel and travel industry. By understanding these trends, businesses in the travel and hospitality sector can better cater to travelers’ evolving needs and preferences, offering them unique, personalized, and memorable experiences.

Visit Accor for more details.