Travelling Deeper: How Minor Hotels’ New Travel Trends Report Predicts a More Connected 2026

Rethinking the Future of Travel

A new era of tourism is emerging, and it is defined by emotional resonance, meaningful encounters and a stronger sense of personal alignment. Minor Hotels has released its inaugural Travel Trends Report, ‘Travelling Deeper: A Search for Lasting Connection’, revealing that travellers are no longer satisfied with simply seeing the world. Instead, they want to feel it, understand it and connect with it on multiple levels.

This shift marks an important evolution in how people choose, plan and experience their journeys. According to the report, hotels are increasingly seen not just as places to stay but as platforms for personal enrichment, cultural exploration and human connection.

Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, emphasises this transformation, noting that travellers today are pursuing stories, meaning and genuine engagement. The report serves as a call to action for the hospitality sector to create offerings that inspire deeper connections and elevate wellbeing.

Optimism and Opportunity for 2026

Travel confidence remains strong, with 94% of respondents expecting to travel as much or more in 2026. A third are planning even more trips than the previous year, and almost half intend to increase their travel budget. Those in the luxury sector are especially ambitious, with 61% expecting to travel more frequently.

Despite economic fluctuations, travel continues to be seen as essential. Affordability is still a major influence on planning decisions, followed by seasonality, ease of travel and available time. Interestingly, more than half of travellers book within three months of departure, demonstrating a desire to stay flexible or wait for greater certainty before committing.

Hotel websites are the leading source of planning information for 80% of travellers, surpassing personal recommendations and online travel agents. Meanwhile, emerging tools like generative AI travel assistants are gaining traction among early adopters.

Connection to Others: The Rise of Shared Journeys

Travel in 2026 is inherently social. Almost everyone plans to travel with companions, whether partners, family or friends. Quality time is the driving force behind these choices, with travellers prioritising shared experiences that enhance relationships.

Simple pleasures are at the heart of these shared moments. Dining together, enjoying cultural activities or simply relaxing rank highest among meaningful group experiences. A majority prefer to keep their activities within their own group, reflecting a desire to deepen existing relationships while exploring new destinations together.

The Inner Journey: Wellbeing and Personal Space

Even in group settings, travellers are seeking solitude and balance. Disconnecting from technology is increasingly important, with 71% viewing digital breaks as essential to their wellbeing. Wellness-focused travel continues to rise, with travellers integrating mindfulness practices, spa treatments, nature experiences and fitness into their itineraries.

A significant proportion make time for themselves even when travelling with others, highlighting the dual desires for connection and personal retreat.

Taste and Culture: Exploring Through Flavour

Local cuisine remains the leading gateway to cultural immersion. Food experiences top the list for 85% of respondents, followed closely by architecture and natural landscapes. Independent exploration is preferred by the majority, though guided tours still appeal to those seeking deeper local insight.

Authentic experiences play a critical role in creating emotional ties to a destination. When travellers feel genuinely connected to a place, 76% say they are likely to return.

Values in Motion: Sustainability Shapes Loyalty

Sustainability is no longer a niche consideration. Nearly half of travellers factor in a hotel’s environmental and social commitments when choosing where to stay. From cultural preservation to eco-friendly operations, these initiatives enhance guests’ sense of connection and influence their loyalty to a destination or brand.

Travellers increasingly expect hotels to guide them towards responsible choices, embedding sustainability into the core of their travel experiences.

Minor Hotels

Website: www.minorhotels.com

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