Story perspectives

Travel Trends Shift: Experience Over Sightseeing Post-COVID

12/25/2025

Center

Travelers Seek Experiences

Travel trends favor experience-led journeys that prioritize meaningful connections over traditional sightseeing.
Post-COVID, travelers seek off-peak seasons and secondary cities to avoid overtourism.
A Virtuoso report shows 76% of travel advisors see rising shoulder-season interest.
Wellness travel now emphasizes mental health, longevity, and sustainability, attracting diverse age groups.
Luxury travel is shifting toward curated experiences that reduce planning stress.

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Brits Pursue Wellness

In 2026, British travelers will seek wellness and unique experiences, with New York topping destinations.
The British Airways Holidays report highlights Chronocations, with nearly 20% ignoring time constraints to align with their natural rhythms.
Cognitive health is a focus, as a quarter of UK adults seek relaxation through breathwork and meditation.
Dubai is anticipated to be the leading destination outside the United States.

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Travelers Seek Experiences

Travel trends favor experience-led journeys that prioritize meaningful connections over traditional sightseeing.
Post-COVID, travelers seek off-peak seasons and secondary cities to avoid overtourism.
A Virtuoso report shows 76% of travel advisors see rising shoulder-season interest.
Wellness travel now emphasizes mental health, longevity, and sustainability, attracting diverse age groups.
Luxury travel is shifting toward curated experiences that reduce planning stress.

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