Travel Trends for 2025

In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher discuss some of the top travel trends predicted for 2025 based on recent reports. With overtourism and crowding issues at many popular destinations, travelers are looking for lesser-known destinations for a more local experience. Slow travel, smaller destinations, and trips outside of peak season are forecasted to rise in popularity.

Lesser Known Destinations Rising in Popularity

According to Expedia flight search data, interest is rising in lesser known destinations like Reims, France; Brescia, Italy; Cozumel, Mexico, Santa Barbara, California; Waikato, New Zealand; Girona, Spain; Fukuoka, Japan; Abu Dhabi, UAE; Krabi, Thailand; and Canmore, Canada.

Booking.com accommodation search data also shows trending interest in alternative destinations like Sanya, China; Trieste, Italy; João Pessoa, Brazil; Tromsø, Norway; Tignes, France; San Pedro de Atacama, Chile; Naha, Okinawa, Japan; Vejer de la Frontera, Spain; and Houston, Texas.

Shift from FOMO to JOMO

Rather than fear of missing out (FOMO), travelers are starting to embrace the joy of missing out (JOMO) on overcrowded tourist spots in favor of unique off-the-beaten path destinations.

Recent Trip to Mackinac Island

Ashleigh and Christopher share about a recent fall weekend getaway to Mackinac Island, Michigan. They discuss staying at a boutique hotel, biking around the island, and visiting some great restaurants including Gate House, Mary's Drafthouse, Kingston Kitchen Jamaican restaurant, and more.

Wine Break: Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream

The hosts chat about Buffalo Trace's delicious Bourbon Cream liquor, a nice alternative to Bailey's and eggnog. They recommend visiting the historic Buffalo Trace distillery in Kentucky.