Solo expeditions, sports tourism among top travel trends to watch
This year is shaping up to be a landmark year for travel, with some exciting trends already making waves.

American Express Travel’s latest report shines a light on trends for 2024, revealing people’s plans to make the most of their trips this year.

According to the report, 84% of people are looking to spend as much or more on their travels as they did last year, and, smartly, 89% prioritise using “travel hacks” such as credit card points to get the most out of their trip.

So, what’s fuelling this enthusiasm? American Express Travel has pinpointed four key trends.

Sporty escapes

Sports fans are eager for live action, according to the report. Of the generations, 67% of Millennial and Gen Z folks prioritise travelling for sports events. Formula 1 racing, basketball and football attract the most travellers, at 58%. And the hot spots for sports travel this summer include New York, Miami and Las Vegas in the United States, London in England, and of course, Paris, most likely for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 (July 26-Aug 11) and 2024 Summer Paralympics (Aug 28-Sept 8).

Go big, or go home

Then, there’s the call of the wild – real wild. We’re talking bucket-list adventures that could have you trekking with gorillas or exploring the untouched beauty of the Galapagos Islands.

“Not only are travellers hungry for adventure and exploration, but they are engaged and show a desire to immerse in the culture of a region,” said Steve Smotrys, vice president of Seabourn Cruise Line’s sales and trade relations.

Many respondents’ dream trip is about experiencing remote locations like a local. For others, it’s about longer journeys packed with variety and discovery, like hopping across multiple countries.

Interestingly, 63% of those aiming to explore more than one country in a single journey are setting their sights on Europe. And for inspiration, travellers turn to friends or family (52%) more than social media (39%).

Solo is better

It’s all about freedom, baby! Custom itineraries, treating yourself, and the sheer ease of doing whatever you want, whenever you want. Millennials and Gen Z-ers lead the pack at 76%, compared to 69% of all respondents who plan to travel solo this year.

Moreover, 60% of solo travellers this year plan to enjoy not just one, but at least two solo expeditions.

Last-minute getaways

And for those who like to keep things spicy, spontaneous trips are on the rise. Nothing beats the thrill of booking a last-minute trip, leaving room for surprises and those authentic local experiences. A notable 78% of respondents find impromptu getaways appealing.

Interestingly, 77% of Millennials and Gen Z-ers have previously embraced last-minute travel, a trend slightly less common among 65% of Gen X-ers and 52% of Baby Boomers. – Tribune News Service

Bucket list adventures are hot among both the young and older generations, while more Millenials and Gen Z-ers plan to travel solo this year. — Photos: Pixabay
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A new report shines a light on travel trends for 2024, revealing people’s plans to make the most of their trips this year.