Today’s travelers want to do more than just see the sights when on vacation; they want to learn, taste, and experience. GetYourGuide, an online marketplace for unique travel experiences, says “travel now means tapping into real connections, not ticking off landmarks.”
According to a Globe Newswire article, the popular travel app has released its first Hidden Trends List 2026. It expects these trends to shape travelers’ choices next year and in the future:
Birdwatching – Data reveals that 54 percent of travelers want to try birdwatching on their next trip. Destinations known for birdwatching have experienced some of the highest increases in searches this year.
Coffee culture – So-called “Espresso-nists” are picking destinations based on the coffee scene, with coffee tour bookings up more than 50% since last year. Coffee has become so popular that one-third of travelers now rank coffee culture above nightlife when planning a vacation.
Walking tours – Travelers are learning that the best way to see and experience a destination is on foot. Interest in guided tours is skyrocketing, with two-thirds of travelers calling them “cool again.”
Foodies – Food is becoming “the itinerary” for travelers, with tourists wanting to experience a culture through food and drink.
Early birds – More than half of travelers are willing to wake up early to experience top attractions without the crowds.
Life lessons – Travelers like the idea of learning something new, with nearly one-third saying they would rather come home with a new skill than a souvenir.
According to Get Your Guide, curiosity will be the primary motivator for travel next year. “People are planning trips around experiences they want to have, not just places they want to see.”
What do you want to do on your next vacation? Message The Seniors Trust on Facebook or X (formerly known as Twitter) and let us know if you’ll be taking a walking tour, trying local delicacies, or keeping your eyes on the sky looking for birds.
