COVID will fade – hopefully soon. But COVID will also leave lasting traces. Negative ones, like we first have to learn to be close to each other again and to leave our own comfort zone, but also positive ones. Because the months of pandemic standstill have changed our needs and our travel behavior. We have moved closer to nature and are more aware of the effects of climate change. More nature, more sustainability and environmental protection are in demand. We are happy about this! The more people are mindful of nature and its resources in their everyday lives, the more people also want to make their vacations sustainable. In our opinion, the following trends will determine travel in the future:

Green and individual travel destinations are booming

At the beginning of your travel planning is always the question: Where to? More and more travelers are opting for a destination that emphasizes environmental protection and sustainable accommodation. But destinations and places that are not overcrowded and less well-known also score highly when it comes to choosing, because they give you the chance to have authentic and fulfilling experiences.

Climate-friendly travel – Vacation destinations are getting closer

The trend is to travel by train, bus or your own car. Many great destinations can be reached this way. The discussions about “flight shaming” and the poor carbon footprint of air travel are also fueling this trend. However, if you consciously decide to travel by air – and there are many reasons for this – it is a matter of putting the stay in the best possible relation to the CO2 consumed. And we all hope that flying will soon become more environmentally friendly with newly researched biofuels.

Peak season is out

If you are not tied to the school vacations when planning your vacation, you can follow the trend of avoiding the main season. Because in the low or mid-season many things are more pleasant. The beaches, hiking trails and sights are not too crowded and you can easily get in touch with locals and get to know your destination better. Depending on the destination, temperatures are also usually more pleasant in the off-season. Climate change further exacerbates the problem of extreme heat waves in high season.

Authentic experience counts

Younger people in particular want to come into contact with locals, learn about other cultures and traditions, and have experiences that continue to have an impact even after the vacation is over. Our Green Pearls® partners also report an increasing interest in local encounters and experiences.

Read our next blog on July, 30th and find out more.