Based on three years of research and reporting, Globetrender has launched its “Innovators 100” report, showcasing game-changing concepts in travel from across the globe.
Globetrender’s “Innovators 100” report is a dynamic compilation of groundbreaking ideas and trailblazing brands that are transforming the global travel landscape. This non-hierarchical collection is designed to inspire and ignite innovation within the industry.
Based on case studies from three years’ worth of VOLT newsletter editions, the “Innovators 100” is not just a celebration of pioneering ideas but a call to action for the industry to embrace change and drive forward-thinking solutions. (Each innovation corresponds to a trend – all of them can be read online by paying for an Annual VOLT subscription.)
Whether it’s adapting to shifting consumer demands, integrating sustainable practices, or leveraging new technologies, the “Innovators 100” highlights actionable strategies and ideas that can be applied across various sectors of travel – and beyond.
One of the key benefits of the report is its ability to illuminate trends with real-world examples. For professionals working in hospitality, aviation, tour operations, or even niche markets such as wellness and luxury, the case studies provide clear insights into how brands are creatively responding to challenges such as climate change, changing traveller expectations and technological disruption.
For instance, concepts such as modular hotel rooms, carbon-positive properties and survival academies demonstrate how businesses can differentiate themselves by addressing sustainability, flexibility, and the growing demand for unique, immersive experiences.
Moreover, the report fosters a cross-sector perspective by encouraging travel professionals to look beyond their immediate competitors for ideas.
From shoppable stays to AI-driven climate insurance, many of the featured innovations stem from combining seemingly unrelated industries, such as retail, tech and wellness, with travel. By examining these intersections, professionals can identify untapped opportunities and craft offerings that are both unique and highly relevant to modern travellers.
By learning from the success stories of other pioneering brands, businesses can align themselves with the future-forward expectations of travellers, while building resilience and relevance in an unpredictable world.
Here, we highlight a selection of ten innovations featured in the report…
1. Sensible Weather – Climate-Based Travel Insurance
Sensible Weather offers “Weather Guarantee” insurance, automatically reimbursing travellers for trips disrupted by adverse weather, including extreme heat. This service helps mitigate the risks of unpredictable climates while providing flexibility and peace of mind for travellers.
Trend: Climate Evasion
Why it Matters: Climate unpredictability is reshaping travel, and flexible solutions like this build trust and encourage bookings.
2. Visit Sweden’s “Spellbound by Sweden” Campaign
This imaginative marketing initiative from Visit Sweden invites visitors to Sweden’s National Parks to access a geo-restricted audiobook inspired by local folklore. It combines culture and nature with digital interactivity, encouraging physical exploration.
Trend: Radical Marketing
Why it Matters: By blending storytelling with experiential travel, destinations can create deeper connections with their audience.
3. Trojena Outdoor Ski Resort, Neom
Saudi Arabia’s futuristic desert ski resort, Trojena, features artificial snow and mixed-reality architecture. This ambitious project will offer year-round activities, blending high-tech engineering with sustainability.
Trend: Synthetic Skiing
Why it Matters: It highlights how technology can expand tourism opportunities in unlikely environments.
4. Bear Grylls Survival Academy, Greece
Sani Resort partners with adventurer Bear Grylls to offer survival skill programs for families and teens, incorporating hands-on outdoor education in a safe, luxurious setting.
Trend: Survival Scenarios
Why it Matters: Experience-driven travel remains a key differentiator, blending adventure and learning.
5. Life’s Rewards by Visit St Pete/Clearwater
An original Amazon Prime TV series, Life’s Rewards showcases the attractions of St Pete/Clearwater in Florida, seamlessly blending entertainment with destination marketing. The scripted show inspires travellers to visit real-life locations featured in the series.
Trend: Limelight Locations
Why it Matters: Entertainment-driven marketing fosters emotional connections and increases destination visibility.
6. IGLTA Accreditation for LGBTQ+ Travel
IGLTA Accredited provides assurance that hotels and travel brands genuinely welcome LGBTQ+ travellers, focusing on inclusivity and advocacy.
Trend: Queer Travel
Why it Matters: Inclusivity is a growing priority, with travellers seeking destinations and brands aligned with their values.
7. Seatrac Accessible Beach Initiative, Greece
Seatrac is a simple system providing wheelchair users with independent access to the sea via remote-controlled tracks and chairs, installed across 287 Greek beaches.
8. Mandarin Oriental Emirates Palace – Vegan Rooms, UAE
The Mandarin Oriental Emirates Palace has introduced entirely vegan rooms, featuring animal-free furnishings, plant-based dining options, and cruelty-free amenities. The initiative caters to ethically conscious travellers without compromising luxury.
Trend: Vegan Hospitality
Why it Matters: As veganism grows globally, travellers are seeking accommodations aligned with their values.
9. Minoan’s Shoppable Stays
Minoan turns accommodations into retail showrooms, allowing guests to purchase products they encounter during their stay through QR codes.
Trend: Shoppable Experiences
Why it Matters: It bridges the gap between hospitality and retail, driving revenue through experiential commerce.
10. Aman Bhutan’s “Quest for Happiness” Itinerary
Aman has designed a philanthropic journey offering travellers the chance to engage with local communities through volunteering and cultural immersion, supporting the region’s environmental and social goals.
Trend: Philanthropic Travel
Why it Matters: It aligns with the growing traveller interest in meaningful, sustainable experiences.
