2024'S HOTTEST TRAVEL TRENDS: A CLOSER LOOK AT EMERGING REQUESTS
January 12, 2024.
The recently unveiled trends in travel for 2024 by CN Traveller have certainly caught attention, so we listed, particularly a few that stand out prominently and which we can see emerging in high demand, and some that we have noted as trends based on recent requests.
Elevated group travel suggests a shift towards more refined and curated group travel experiences. Rather than traditional group tours, travelers are seeking elevated group experiences that offer exclusivity, personalized service, and unique activities, catering to more discerning tastes and preferences.
Multi-gen family group travel is gaining momentum. Families spanning different generations are coming together to explore destinations and create shared experiences. This trend emphasizes the importance of bonding and creating lasting memories across family lines.
Restaurateur-owned hotels are a unique niche in hospitality, owned or managed by renowned culinary experts. These accommodations focus on exceptional dining experiences, blending fine hospitality with culinary excellence. This trend responds to the rising preference for food-centric travel, prompting restaurateurs to expand into hotel ownership, ensuring extraordinary dining alongside top-tier hospitality. La Bastide de Moustiers in Provence exemplifies this trend. Ducasse preserved its 18th-century character by infusing the hotel with his collected treasures, creating a 4-star haven that harmonizes luxury and simplicity. Set amidst lavender fields and olive trees, the Bastide offers an authentic yet contemporary Provencal experience, inviting guests to savor tranquil moments on its shaded terrace.
Urban gardens redefine cities, turning them into lush havens amidst the urban sprawl. Architects and city planners strategically integrate green spaces beyond mere aesthetics; these verdant pockets combat rising temperatures, foster community bonds, and even enhance urban food sources. Among a groundbreaking venture is an innovative project within an urban hotel in Paris, a testament to merging nature seamlessly with city life while prioritizing sustainable practices. In preparation for the 2024 Olympics, Paris and Bordeaux are actively greening their landscapes. Paris introduces budding forests in districts, while Bordeaux's Grandeur Nature project features cooling islands and rain gardens.
Smaller, more confidential, museums and tours of these addresses guided by seasoned experts, unveil the hidden gems and lesser-known landmarks that define France's rich tapestry. Many clients opt for having the same guide for multiple tours, which leads us to another trend.
Your guide is more than a guide, and clients want a sense of familiarity and meaningful connection. Carefully selecting the guides that we work with has always been at the heart of our offer. They share their enthusiasm with others and are not only passionate about what they do but also experts in their areas. Clients are taken on in-depth explorations of local and authentic experiences that are of interest to them, whether it be on a shopping excursion with an interior designer at the Marché aux Puces or a gastronomic tour led by a culinary professional.
Exclusive food and wine tours are a hit; wandering through bustling markets brimming with fresh produce is as authentic as it gets, and food connects us all. Sample artisanal cheeses in Normandy or delight in Bordeaux's renowned wines amidst scenic vineyards. Our expert-led tours unwrap the very essence of France's world-renowned cuisine, each bite narrating tales of passion and heritage that resonate from Paris to the Mediterranean shores of Provence and Nice.
Unique venues and spots for hosting meetings and organizing events are on the rise. As conventional spaces give way to fresh experiences, special addresses are gaining traction. Alongside the classic settings, alternative venues like historic châteaux, vineyards, and cultural spaces are becoming sought-after locations for meetings and events, offering distinctive atmospheres and immersive experiences, transforming gatherings into unforgettable moments.
Moreover, the trend leans towards regions off-the-beaten-track, such as Alsace, Toulouse, and Périgord. These areas offer a captivating divergence from the typical tourist destinations, especially for seasoned Francophiles. Alsace, with its unique blend of French and German cultures, presents charming villages and world-class wines. Toulouse, with its distinctive terracotta buildings, exudes a lively atmosphere, boasting historic sites. Périgord, known for its prehistoric caves, medieval castles, and gastronomic delights, invites travelers to explore its rich history and culinary treasures.
These trends indicate a shift towards more tailored, specialized, and experiential travel. Travelers are seeking deeper connections, personalized services, and unique experiences that go beyond conventional tourism, focusing on creating memorable and enriching moments during their journeys.