The Future of Travel Just Landed: The 5 Biggest Trends Shaping Travel in 2025

water-based experiences

The way we travel is evolving, and 2025 is ushering in a wave of new experiences designed to deepen our connection to the world. From water-based wellness to immersive sensory escapes, the first-ever Tripadvisor Trendcast reveals the top five shifts travelers are embracing. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply staying ahead of the curve, these trends will redefine how we experience the globe.

1. Waterculturalism: The Rise of Aqua Experiences

Water has always been a source of relaxation and adventure, but in 2025, travelers are taking their love of H₂O to the next level. From ancient bathing rituals to cutting-edge conservation initiatives, water-based experiences are more popular than ever.

Modern bathhouses in South Korea and China are transforming into social hubs, offering hydrotherapy alongside karaoke and movie nights. Meanwhile, dive operators are turning underwater excursions into ecological missions, allowing travelers to participate in coral planting in the Philippines or track marine life in Mozambique.

If you’re looking to make a splash, why not embark on a submarine safari, explore an underwater museum, or take a tour through glow worm caves? With a 157% increase in bookings for hot springs and thermal spas, it’s clear that travelers are prioritizing water-based wellness.

2. Play It Forward: Adult Play Takes Center Stage

play is for everyone

Forget grown-up responsibilities—travelers are embracing a childlike sense of play to boost happiness. The rise of happiness-hacking holidays means that destinations are catering to those seeking fun, adventure, and nostalgia.

From ball pits at Brisbane’s Dopamine Land to moon bounce courses at Luxor’s Play Playground, adult-friendly play zones are in high demand. Fine dining is also getting a playful twist, with floating dining chairs at Germany’s Eatrenalin providing a multi-sensory food journey.

Escape rooms and immersive gaming experiences have seen a 105% increase in bookings, proving that adults are seeking entertainment beyond the usual sightseeing. Whether you fancy an adult sleepaway camp or a cowboy crash course, the travel industry is making sure play is for everyone.

3. Written in the Stars: Astrology-Inspired Travel

astrology-related activities

Astrology is shaping more than just daily horoscopes—it’s guiding travel decisions. Spiritual retreats and cosmic experiences are booming, as travelers look to align their journeys with the stars.

Hotels are embracing the trend, offering zodiac-themed retreats and astrology sessions. The Standard in London, for example, curates personalized stays based on star signs, while Costa Navarino’s Mandarin Oriental includes crystal healing readings on its spa menu. Sacred sites like Stonehenge and the Pyramids are also incorporating astrologer-led tours, offering deeper insight into ancient cosmic connections.

With a 530% rise in mentions of astrology-related activities, travelers can now indulge in tarot readings, shamanic cleansing rituals, or even full-moon meditation retreats.

4. New ‘Moons: Celebrating Life’s Milestones Differently

major life moments 

Beyond honeymoons and babymoons, travelers are finding new reasons to mark major life moments with trips. From retiremoons to bestiemoons, non-traditional milestone vacations are on the rise.

DINKs (Double Income, No Kids) are splurging on friendship cruises, while retirees are taking month-long hiking adventures through the Camino de Santiago. Divorcees are embracing newfound freedom with solo island escapes, and sober travelers are celebrating sobriety milestones with wellness retreats.

With a 39% increase in bookings for trips celebrating retirement, divorce, and sobriety, travelers are proving that any life change is a great excuse to book a getaway.

5. Dynamically Sensorial: Multi-Sensory Travel Experiences

fully immersive experiences

Post-pandemic travelers are looking for more than just relaxation—they’re seeking fully immersive experiences that engage all five senses.

Hotels, spas, and attractions are responding by curating deeply engaging environments. In the Amazon, forest bathing experiences allow travelers to tune into the subtleties of nature, while New York’s Olfactory Art Keller pairs art with custom scents for a fully immersive experience. Meanwhile, blindfolded dining at luxury restaurants heightens taste and texture, offering a unique way to enjoy gourmet cuisine.

With a 267% rise in multi-sensory travel experiences, it’s clear that travelers are craving richer, more engaging ways to explore the world. Whether you’re forest bathing, creating your own perfume, or dining in complete darkness, 2025 is the year to fully immerse yourself in travel.

Final Thoughts

The future of travel is all about meaningful experiences—whether it’s harnessing the healing power of water, embracing the playfulness of childhood, or aligning trips with the cosmos. As travelers continue to seek deeper connections with the world around them, these trends will shape how we explore, celebrate, and rejuvenate in 2025 and beyond.