The 'Joy of Missing Out' redefines vacation: 70% of travelers prioritize peace and relaxation
JOMO replaces FOMO with slower, more wellness-focused experiences as the Caribbean cements its place as a preferred destination
After years dominated by packed itineraries and busy schedules, global travel is experiencing a paradigm shift. The “Joy of Missing Out” (JOMO) trend is emerging as a response to the exhaustion generated by the “Fear of Missing Out” (FOMO) culture. According to a YouGov survey for Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL), more than 70% of travelers are now choosing more relaxing getaways focused on wellness, flexibility, and freedom of choice.
JOMO proposes a new way of traveling, free from the pressure to follow exhaustive itineraries and record every experience. According to the study, 77% of respondents plan their vacations with the goal of relaxing and unwinding, while 49% find that fast-paced trips leave them more tired than before they left.
The trend is gaining ground especially among those seeking a conscious break from hyperconnectivity and fast-paced life. For the majority (67%), JOMO trips represent a form of self-care, offering the opportunity to slow down (45%), escape the pressure of "seeing everything" (40%), enjoy personal time (38%), and reconnect with nature (32%). Freedom from obligations (52%) and contact with natural environments (48%) are among the most appreciated values of this type of experience.
Cruises are emerging as the ideal setting for embracing this new philosophy. More than half of travelers (54%) believe this format offers the perfect balance of relaxation, freedom, and comfort. In this context, the Caribbean is consolidating its position as the preferred destination for JOMO tourism, thanks to its warm climate, serene beaches, and natural environment conducive to relaxation.
Norwegian Cruise Line is leading this trend with its commitment to flexible itineraries and wellness-focused experiences. The company will deploy 18 ships in the Caribbean through 2027, including Norwegian Luna™ and the new Norwegian Aqua™, sailing from 11 homeports, including Miami, Orlando (Port Canaveral), New York City, Punta Cana (La Romana), and San Juan. The voyages, ranging from four to 14 days, include stops at Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye, the line's private islands, designed as havens for rest and reconnection.
According to Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., “The Joy of Missing Out is about choosing what truly matters. At NCL, we make this possible through experiences that emphasize calm, freedom, and connection with one's surroundings.”
The company offers a comprehensive onboard experience that aligns with this philosophy. Mandara Spa, Vibe Beach Club, and Observation Lounge are some of the spaces dedicated to relaxation and personal well-being. Furthermore, with its benefits program—which includes meals, beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, and excursion credits—NCL eliminates the complexity of planning, allowing each traveler to focus on the essentials: unwinding, recharging, and enjoying the present.
The rise of JOMO reflects a broader trend toward conscious and restorative travel. Travel is no longer about “doing it all,” but rather about choosing with intention and savoring the moment, a shift that redefines the very meaning of vacation.