Tourism has undergone key changes, driven by trends such as the rise of wellness and sustainability, which have redefined travel experiences in 2024. In addition, social media and digitalisation, together with Artificial Intelligence, have transformed travel planning and enjoyment, setting the stage for a 2025 full of innovation. According to HBX Group, a leading global company offering a suite of interconnected travel and technology solutions, in 2025, one of the main trends will be the 'MeMooner', a term that describes solo travellers, a booming segment, especially among women, who represent 71% of these tourists. This phenomenon underlines a shift towards personal empowerment, where independence and authenticity become priorities for tourists. However, the biggest challenges for this segment are high costs (65%) and safety concerns (61%), particularly among female travellers.
At the same time, the ‘Joy of Missing Out’ (JOMO) phenomenon will gain popularity among travellers looking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with themselves. From quiet retreats in remote locations to the rise of all-inclusive resorts, these trends reflect a desire for simplicity and tranquillity. So much so that 85% of travellers expressed interest in taking holidays purely to ‘unplug’, highlighting the impact of digital stress on travel decisions. Furthermore, according to data from HBX Group, 41% of Gen Z travellers choose all-inclusive resorts for the convenience and luxury they offer, while 39% value the ease of booking.
Technology, meanwhile, continues to be a key driver for the transformation of tourism. Hyper-personalisation driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI) will continue to set trends in the sector, from contactless check-ins to technologies that allow users to interact with devices or services using voice commands, without the need to use screens or buttons. These measures are focused on meeting the expectations of travellers, who demand a hassle-free experience that combines efficiency and convenience.
But AI is not only improving the customer experience, but also the internal operations of the sector. Advanced machine learning tools are revolutionising tourism management, enabling dynamic pricing, better demand forecasting and greater operational efficiency.
Another relevant aspect is the growing adoption of virtual reality (VR) in the industry. This technology is changing the way we explore destinations and accommodations before booking, and it allows users to immerse themselves in virtual experiences, visiting hotels or destinations as if they were there.
“Virtual reality not only allows us to showcase hotel facilities or the destinations we are travelling to, but it also represents a unique opportunity to inspire confidence in customers even before they arrive, which makes all the difference in such a competitive market,” says Carlos Muñoz, Chief Commercial Officer and Deputy CEO of HBX Group.
In this context, event tourism also stands out, continuing to grow rapidly with a global market projected at 754 billion dollars by 2030. Events such as concerts, festivals and sporting events are transforming destinations into economic and cultural attractions.
Wellbeing and nature, on the rise
On the other hand, the connection with nature and the desire to explore unique phenomena are driving the growth of activities such as astrotourism and nightlife. These experiences offer travelers the opportunity to reconnect with the natural world, whether by observing constellations or participating in outdoor adventures.
Likewise, tourism based on natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights or geological tourism, is gaining popularity, with adventure activities that are expected to grow by 16.2% annually until 2033. This segment includes everything from hiking to more extreme activities such as mountaineering and rafting, attracting a variety of tourist profiles.
Inclusivity is becoming increasingly important in the tourism industry. HBX Group is therefore working to ensure that all travel experiences are accessible and adapted to different needs. This includes developing tools for travellers with specific cognitive or sensory needs and improving accessibility at each stage of the trip.
“Travelers’ preferences are shaped by sustainability, multigenerational experiences and experiential tourism. These pillars continue to evolve, transforming the way tourists explore and engage with the world. At HBX Group, we are committed to leading this transformation, offering innovative solutions that respond to the changing needs of travelers and set a new standard in the industry,” adds Carlos Muñoz.
Fuente: HBX Group.