Influenced by technological advancements, cultural shifts, and global economic factors, we’re excited by the new and notable trends shaping the travel and tourism industry. From the rise of virtual experiences to the growing emphasis on wellness, we see the industry landscape is evolving in ways that are important for visitor destinations to know. This blog explores our best guess of what the coming year of travel and tourism holds.
Virtual and Metaverse Experiences
Visitor destinations are continuing to embrace the digital realm, particularly through metaverse-style platforms. Disney has been a memorable example, offering an “experiential lifestyle platform” through Disney+. But this multi-media approach isn’t limited to entertainment giants. Destinations like Yas Island in Abu Dhabi are also entering the virtual world, creating immersive 3D recreations of their physical spaces. Digital transformations enable broader access, allowing people worldwide to explore destinations virtually.
As technology improves, we’re seeing cultural experiences do the same. We’re glad to offer our clients easy integrations for multi-media formats, including VR experiences. With support for various audio, image, video, and animation formats, our platform is equipped to help teams create and deliver compelling, immersive content that meets the evolving expectations of modern travelers.
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Robotic and AI Integrations
Robotics and AI are significantly enhancing visitor experiences. Returning to the Disney experience, the mass media company now has plans for “untethered” robots and a ‘robotic sherpa’ to assist park visitors. Similarly, the Museum of the Future in Dubai employs humanoid robots and robodogs for visitor interactions. These technological advancements add a futuristic touch and have the potential to improve the efficiency and engagement of visitor experiences.
Cultural and Indigenous Tourism
Aside from technology, there's a growing desire among travelers for authentic experiences, leading to a surge in cultural and indigenous tourism. This includes immersive visits to indigenous communities and activities led by First Nations guides. Such experiences offer a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures, traditions, and histories, enriching the travel experience with authenticity and meaningful engagement.
Tourism Levies and Sustainable Development Fees
In response to over-tourism, some destinations are implementing tourism levies and sustainable development fees. Bhutan's nightly ‘Sustainable Development Fee’ and planned entry fees for cities like Venice serve as one example. These measures aim to balance tourism with sustainability, ensuring destinations can manage visitor influx while preserving their natural and cultural heritage.
Combining City Life with Nature
Travelers are seeking experiences that blend urban excitement with the tranquility of nature. An example is NYC Glamping in Brooklyn, offering stays in remodeled shipping containers with natural scenery views, juxtaposed with the urban backdrop of New York City. This trend caters to those who seek a balance between the vibrancy of city life and the serenity of natural landscapes, and it’s a balance we expect people to continue to pursue.
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Wellness and Quality of Life-Focused Travel
Post-pandemic, there's an increased focus on wellness and quality of life in travel. This includes journeys for solitude, soul-searching, and wellness retreats, with accommodations offering meditation, yoga, and beautiful, simplistic views. Travelers are looking for experiences that not only provide a break but also contribute to their overall well-being–a vacation they can bring back home.
Digital Storytelling and Interactive Content
Lastly, the demand for digital storytelling and interactive content in travel experiences is growing. We’re seeing more clients invest in mobile apps as a main method for user support and engagement. New-to-market apps are using augmented reality experiences, interactive maps, and multimedia guides to help visitors engage with the experience. This trend is about transforming passive sightseeing into active, engaging explorations that educate and entertain.
The future of travel and tourism in 2024 will blend technological innovation, cultural authenticity, economic mindfulness, and a strong emphasis on personal well-being. These trends reflect a dynamic industry adapting to the changing desires and needs of travelers, promising a more inclusive, engaging, and sustainable future in travel.