CIIC PR’s 2025 Travel Trends: Trendspotting to Set the Stage for What’s Next
Written by: Amy Sedeño, CIIC PR’s Vice President & Partner
At CIIC, trendspotting is at the core of our strategy for clients. As we close out the year, we dive into emerging trends that can enhance our storytelling and drive impactful media coverage. 2025 is shaping up to be an eclectic year, with travelers seeking a fresh mix of relaxation focused on mental well-being, immersive adventure, and travel experiences that blur the boundaries between work and play.
So, what’s on the horizon for 2025? Let’s dive in:
Soft Travel: Yes, We’re Trying to Put the Phones Down
Imagine this: traveling without feeling the constant urge to check your phone—yes, it sounds impossible for most Millennials (guilty), but “soft travel” isn’t about unplugging completely. It’s about slowing down and immersing ourselves without distraction. Think wellness retreats that focus on mindfulness, meditative walks through lush landscapes, and travel that’s refreshingly low-key yet soul-replenishing. Most experts simply call it “going back to basics.”
The Intersection of Work and Play
More travelers are blending business with leisure in 2025, but next year, we expect to see a rise in team travel. Enter the “frocolleague”—friends who are colleagues—traveling together, turning post-meeting afternoons into mini-vacations. Gen Z and Millennial travelers are leading the charge, with 12% planning to take “workations” next year, and according to Ibis x Globetrender, 23% of Gen Z/Y travelers would like to mix business with leisure by working abroad and extending their trips.
Wander Women Leading the Solo Travel Movement
Women are at the forefront of the solo travel movement, and this trend is only gaining momentum. In 2025, “wander women” are embracing the freedom and empowerment of exploring new places solo, often with a focus on wellness, personal growth, and cultural discovery. Hotels and destinations are taking notice. Many luxury and boutique properties now offer solo-friendly packages, including everything from private guided tours to communal dining experiences that encourage connection among solo travelers. Additionally, destinations are launching initiatives to ensure women feel safe and welcomed, offering more secure lodging options, specialized itineraries, and even female-only excursions.
All About the Kids
It turns out family vacations are increasingly dictated by… the kids! According to Hilton’s Annual Trend Report, 70% of families now choose destinations based on their children’s preferences. And with the arrival of “Beta Babies,” family travel is about to reach new heights. In 2025, expect more multi-generational trips, with a focus on interactive experiences and spaces where everyone from toddlers to grandparents can find a bit of magic.
All-Inclusives Are Back (and Better Than Ever)
No longer the “budget-friendly” choice of yesteryears, all-inclusives are trending, and 33% of Gen Z travelers say they’re starting to see the appeal. Today’s all-inclusive resorts aren’t just about saving money—they’re about maximizing value and creating memorable experiences, from exclusive experiences to gourmet dining, all under one roof.
The ‘Bear Effect’: Foodies on the Hunt for the Next Great Bite
Thanks to shows like The Bear, travelers are on a quest to find “Insta-worthy” culinary spots—minus the kitchen drama. In 2025, hotels are teaming up with world-renowned chefs to create dining experiences worth traveling for. No longer is a hotel just a place to sleep; now, it’s also a place to savor, with Michelin stars and immersive culinary journeys drawing in guests just as much as luxurious suites.
& Just Like That, I Found Myself in New York
Shows like And Just Like That, White Lotus, and, possibly, Emily in Paris (or Rome?) are shaping travel plans for 2025. Fans are flocking to the spots that bring their favorite scenes to life, and it’s not just about sightseeing—it’s about stepping into a world they’ve watched on screen. From the Italian coastline to the streets of Paris, 2025 promises to be a destination tour inspired by the shows we love.
TikTok Travel Guides
Forget perfectly curated photos—travelers want the real deal. TikTok is rapidly becoming the platform of choice for under-the-radar recommendations, and it’s winning the trust of travelers looking for genuine local insights. According to Globetrender, while 27% still turn to Instagram, TikTok’s 17% is quickly catching up as users prioritize authentic experiences, hidden gems, and spontaneous adventures that feel genuine and relatable.
As we look ahead to 2025, these trends are a call to rethink travel as a personal journey—a fusion of relaxation, play, and discovery. At CIIC, our goal is to spot these trends and craft stories that inspire travelers to book, explore, and dream beyond the ordinary. Here’s to the journey!