Travel—ah, there’s nothing quite like it, is there? A quick weekend getaway, a soul-soothing solo trip, or even a long family vacation—it’s the one thing we all seem to look forward to. For many, it’s not just a means of escaping life’s everyday grind, it’s an opportunity to reconnect with the world, and learn something new. But let’s be real, travel wasn’t always this accessible. There was a time when it was primarily reserved for the wealthy. Fast forward to today, travel has evolved into an experience for everyone. With cheaper flights, more affordable stays, and a wider array of destinations, the world feels much more open. And Indians, well, we’re truly loving it. From sun-kissed beaches in Thailand to the opulent malls of Dubai, and the rich history of Europe, India’s outbound travel market is thriving.
As I reflect on travel in India and globally, one thing is clear, it’s not just a seasonal affair anymore. While summer and New Year may still be the go-to periods for many, the trends of the last few years indicate that travel is becoming a year-round experience. The numbers reflect it with reports predicting that in 2025, Indian travellers will be spending big —53% of us will seek out live sports experiences, and a whopping 79% will be all about immersive art journeys. India’s outbound tourism market is projected to hit a staggering $18.81 billion by 2024, with a huge growth trajectory over the next decade. With an expected annual growth rate of 11.4%, travel continues to break boundaries.
The world of travel is changing, and I, for one, couldn’t be more excited. As someone who’s always believed that travel expands your horizons, broadens your mindset and frames your personality, it’s exciting to see the world change from the mere materialistic aspect – of course, that still too does exist! We spoke to industry experts to get their thoughts on the key travel trends that will define 2025.
Farm at San Benito
The Changing Face Of Travel
If you think about it, between 2000 and 2010, travel was all about cultural immersion and following mainstream trends. But since then, something big has changed. Gen-Z travellers, in particular, have been leading this shift. They’re rejecting the surface-level experiences in favour of deeper, more authentic connections —it’s about creating lasting memories that mean something. “Travelers will increasingly seek experiences that allow them to connect deeply with local cultures and environments,” shares Thakur Prithvi Singh Kanota, Director of Kanota Resorts Pvt Ltd (Narain Niwas Palace Hotel). “With a focus on mindful, slower travel, the new traveller in 2025 will look to not just visit a destination but to truly engage with it, leaving with a deeper understanding and respect for the places they’ve explored.”
Zoya Mukhyan, Brand Experience office, Woods At Sasan Gir, Gujarat points out some of the unique trends we’re seeing today. She says, “Nostalgia travel is really taking off. People are travelling to places that remind them of simpler times, places where they can reconnect with memories from their childhood. Urban dwellers, tired of city life, are escaping to quieter, more peaceful spots to find solace.” On a similar note, Zoya shares the growing trend of “slow travel.” People are seeking quieter, less crowded places to unwind. “It’s not about rushing through a checklist of places anymore; it’s about embracing serenity, regulating our emotions, and recharging ourselves in peaceful environments,” she explains. And then there’s the rise of offbeat travel. With over-tourism wreaking havoc on popular destinations, travellers are turning to lesser-known places, also known as “dupe destinations,” to escape the crowds and experience something more unique. “It’s all about discovering hidden gems that offer a more authentic connection to the place and its people,” Zoya adds. The way we experience travel is also changing. Design-driven travel is becoming a big thing. “People are drawn to beautiful, well-designed spaces—whether it’s a boutique hotel with stunning architecture or an art retreat that sparks creativity.”
