How luxury, meaning, and slow experiences are reshaping where — and why — guests choose to stay in 2026
Nov 10, 2025
Optimism is returning to the travel industry as executives look ahead to 2026. The year is expected to be shaped by luxury growth, experiential travel, and new patterns in how — and why — people move, from “sportscations” to slow travel.
Key takeaways
- K-shaped economy: Travel demand is split between affluent travelers spending freely and middle-income consumers cutting back.
- Luxury momentum: High-net-worth travelers continue to drive bookings, with strong growth forecast into 2026–2027.
- New definition of luxury: Travelers are seeking uncrowded, sustainable destinations like Greenland, Norway, or Bhutan over traditional hotspots.
- Cruise resurgence: Bookings for 2026 are up sharply, fueled by younger and first-time cruisers drawn to new ships, private islands, and expedition itineraries.
- Emerging destinations: Interest is rising in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea region, Malta, Tenerife, and renewed demand for Australia and New Zealand thanks to new air routes.
- Experience-driven travel: “Sportscations,” set-jetting, and climate-motivated trips are rising as travelers seek memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
- Slow travel mindset: More travelers want to stay longer in one place, immerse themselves in local culture, and replace material status with experiential richness.
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