Atlys, a leading visa processing platform, has released its much-anticipated Travel Trends Report for 2024-25, offering a comprehensive look at significant travel patterns and emerging themes for the coming year. The report highlights key trends shaping the global travel landscape, emphasizing the shift toward more meaningful and personalized travel experiences.
One of the standout trends for 2025 is the rise of solo women travel, with a projected 37% increase in female solo travelers. Popular destinations like Bali, Thailand, and Japan are favored for their safety, affordability, and cultural richness, fueled by the growth of women-only travel groups and online communities. Additionally, Asia continues to solidify its position as a global tourism hub, with destinations such as Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, and Indonesia expected to experience substantial growth. Thailand aims to attract 40 million visitors, while Japan anticipates 28 million, boosted by events like Expo 2025 in Osaka.
Travelers are also prioritizing wellness and slow travel, seeking yoga retreats and immersive cultural experiences in destinations like Bali and Taiwan. Boutique hotels that combine luxury with local traditions are gaining traction, with accommodations in Italy, Japan, and South Africa offering unique activities such as cooking classes and craft workshops. Adventure tourism remains a strong trend, with destinations like Norway, Peru, and Australia drawing enthusiasts for adrenaline-packed experiences and deeper connections with nature.
Emerging, off-the-beaten-path destinations such as Slovenia, Laos, and the Faroe Islands are gaining popularity for their unspoiled beauty and authentic cultural experiences. Pop culture-inspired travel is on the rise as well, with fans planning trips around movies, shows, and music events. Notable examples include Singapore’s Disney Cruise, which is expected to see a 27% increase in demand.
Nature-centric travel is another highlight, with destinations like Iceland and Norway for the Northern Lights and Egypt for solar eclipses drawing significant interest. Culinary tourism is booming, driven by iconic festivals in Italy, Thailand, and France, as well as social media platforms showcasing vibrant food experiences.
Indian travelers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are leading the demand for international travel, with 60% of Atlys users in 2024 under 35. Bleisure travel, which combines business and leisure, also saw significant growth, with 24% of users opting for extended stays. Bangalore emerged as the leading city for travel, followed by Delhi and Mumbai.
“Atlys aims to redefine travel with seamless, enriching, and personalized experiences,” said Mohak Nahta, CEO and Founder of Atlys. “2025 will be a year of meaningful, transformative journeys, emphasizing connections with local cultures and hidden gems.” As the travel industry evolves, trends like sustainability, affordability, and cultural immersion are set to make 2025 a landmark year for global tourism.
