ZEST Newsletter - Published January 5, 2025

Eartha Kitt at Amsterdam Schiphol's Airport via Pinterest

And She's Off!

Soft Travel and Four New Travel Trends You Should Know In 2025

Value over affordability is the mindset of most consumers looking to travel in 2025. While affordability serves as an impetus for travelers, value may be the hinge pin when planning.

Here are five new travel trends in 2025 that you need to know when planning your next trip.

Destination Dupes: Chicago instead of New York City? In 2025, tourists are looking to maximize their time and money. Destination dupes allow visitors to explore a budget-friendly city, without the fanfare and cost of a popular tourist destination. Need suggestions? Travel + Leisure is one of several online sources with a list of suggestions for "dupes" to your most popular spots.

 Subscription Models for Accommodations: For an annual membership fee of $90, guest of Citizen M hotels, can enjoy discount hotel rates, late check-outs, and in some instances premium views. Citizen M and other hotels are offering fee and free membership to guests, allowing them to enjoy perks to their hotels. Be sure and check with your favorite hotels for availability.

Social Media Detox - Airbnb and Unplugged (a U.K. accommodation brand) are offering their guests a unique way to vacation - a social media detox. Guests of Unplugged can book a three-night stay of electronic free living in a comfy cabin, complete with board games and an old school Nokia phone. And Airbnb offers guest with unique stay experiences such as glamping (an upscale approach to traditional camping).

Travel Journaling: Old school journals are making a comeback! Today’s travelers are choosing to record their travel experiences in a physical diary versus posting on social media. "I feel writing down the memories of your trip daily, help you absorb the moment, while you're in it more," said Megan French of Australia's, ThePod Well Travelled podcast.

Soft Travel: Unhurried itineraries. Ease. Enjoying nature and local culture is the foundation of soft travel. Soft travel encourages visitors to slow down and savor every aspect of their visit with minimal effort.  The only requirements are: curiosity and a need for leisure.