experiential travel experts

Experiential Travel: Creating Memories, Not Checklists

Trends in the tourism industry are constantly evolving, and experiential travel is one of the latest trends that has only increased in popularity over the years. The key point of experiential travel is to create memories that will last you a lifetime, and if that sounds like exactly your type of travel, this guide will be helpful.

What exactly is experiential travel, why should you engage in it more often, and the top tour operators for experiential trips are just some of the key things covered in this detailed guide. Keep reading to learn more about experiential travel and see why so many people have become engrossed with it!

What Is Experiential Travel?

Experiential travel is a travel method that has been talked about for decades but has become increasingly popular over the last few years. It’s essentially a way of traveling that allows you to really dig deep into the local culture and fully experience every new place you visit.

Experiential tourism is mostly focused on experiences as opposed to destinations. It also entails spending more time with locals and exploring off-the-beaten paths, instead of just visiting tourist attractions with the highest ratings on Trip Advisor and Google Maps.

This type of tourism is also known as immersion travel because it entails travelers being fully immersed in a local culture. I like to think that immersion travel is just one aspect of experiential travel, and that adventure travel is just as an important part of it.

You can immerse yourself in a local culture all you want but if you don’t actually have authentic local experiences, I don’t think you can still call it experiential travel.

The complete opposite of experiential travel would be something like traveling to a foreign destination and staying at a resort the entire time you’re there. Sure, it’s nice to relax for a few days and spend your time sipping cocktails on the beach, but can you really say you’ve visited Mexico if you’ve never left the hotel? Experiential travelers would disagree.

Benefits of Experiential Travel

The main advantage of experiential travel is that you will end your trips feeling enriched by local cultures, and you will create memories that will last forever. You will actually get to learn and understand the history and traditions of a place, and if you do it right, you can make friends everywhere in the world.

Another benefit of experiential travel is that it should be more affordable. You wouldn’t stay in a fancy hotel, but rather in an apartment rented out by a local. You can even look into house-sitting and pet-sitting options, or just stick to couchsurfing for the most authentic experiences.

Choosing local accommodation instead of mass hotel chains allows you to get in touch with the hosts, which can provide valuable tips about the local communities and the destination’s culture.

Examples of Experiential Travel

When I plan a trip to a new country, I usually start off by creating a map on Google Maps with all the most famous landmarks, tourist attractions, and museums. I prefer to do things by myself and I avoid hiring guides and travel agents, so I do aim to achieve some level of immersion into local culture.

I also make it a point to eat at as many local restaurants as possible and try all the most famous foods in that city. The opposite would be sticking to Burger King or McDonald’s because they’re “safe” options.

While all of that is part of immersion travel, a true experiential traveler wouldn’t aim to visit just the most famous attractions in a new city. Instead, they would look for knowledgeable locals who would help them find all the best-hidden gems and places that locals enjoy the most. It could include visiting a quaint restaurant with the best local cuisine or partaking in an activity that is specific to that city.

It means joining a pasta-making class when you’re in Italy, partaking in a Flamenco dance class while you’re exploring Spain, or attending a local football game when you’re staying in England.

Planning an Experiential Travel Trip

When you’re planning an experiential travel trip, try to focus on encountering authentic local experiences. I would suggest starting off with a quick walking tour of the city. But try to look for local guides that do these tours in smaller groups – it will be a much more immersive experience and you’ll get to actually learn something, especially if you’re spending time with like-minded travelers.

Then, I suggest you do some research about the cuisine of the place you are visiting and learn about the different local dishes. Try to find restaurants that are frequented by locals – if you’re not having too much success, ask your host or a local guide for recommendations.

I’ve found that asking people on Reddit can also yield some great results because there are often locals who are willing to help tourists get to know their cultures.

Next, consider what the country or city you’re visiting is most famous for and try to find attractions or experiences that incorporate that to really get a sense of how the locals are living. An example of this would be going on at least one hike if you’re traveling in the more rural areas of Switzerland, or swimming in the Rhine River if you’re staying in Basel because it’s what the locals actually do.

Top Experiential Travel Companies

Velocity black.

Velocity Black is one of the best examples of a modern concierge service that goes above and beyond for its clients. Services offered by the company include organizing trips and holidays that are tailored to your wants and needs. Velocity Black can offer its members deals on flights with the world’s best airlines, free upgrades, and access to some of the best hotels in the world.

The company is also able to organize special experiences for its clients, which range from hanging out with celebrities to swimming with orcas. The annual membership fee is £2,000 and there’s currently a waiting list to join.

Vivid Travel

Vivid Travel is an experiential travel company that focuses on creating personalized travel itineraries for their customers. The agents will ask you questions about preferences for accommodation, ideas for experiences, and attractions, but also about your budget and preferred vacation length.

Then, they can create you a unique itinerary that explores all the things that interest you the most, while staying within your budget. They’ll do all the booking for you, and it’s a great company to use if you don’t like doing the research and bookings yourself.

Niquesa Travel

Niquesa Travel is another tour operator that specializes in custom travel itineraries. It’s more of a luxury travel company, so not the best operator to use if you’re trying to travel on a tighter budget. The company can plan and organize every aspect of your trip, from flights to immersive experiences.

You can contact Niquesa Travel to arrange any type of trip you want, and they also have a few pre-made itineraries that sound amazing. Travel to Morocco on a limited budget and follow a series of clues as you explore the local culture, or go on a road trip through England in a supercar.

Black Tomato

Black Tomato is a favored luxury travel company for experiential travel. This company has pre-made itineraries for virtually every corner of the world, but its agents can also create entirely new customized itineraries for customers.

Trekking in Nepal, safaris in Uganda, and sailing in the Galapagos Islands are just some examples of trips this company can arrange for you. Allowing Black Tomato to plan your trip means you’ll need to tell them everything about your preferences and budget, and they’ll do absolutely everything for you from booking the plane tickets to reserving you a spot in the pasta-making class in Tuscany.

Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent is one of the oldest luxury travel companies with a history of more than six decades. The company is known for incredibly detailed personalized itineraries, as well as excellent service.

Booking a trip with Abercrombie & Kent means that you could attend a private tour of a museum, get customized meals, and stay at places that are off-limits for regular people. This is one of the priciest tour agencies for experiential travel, but also one that can offer you a unique and personalized experience in every corner of the world.

Current Trends in Experiential Travel

Trends in the travel industry are constantly changing, but the core of experiential travel will always be immersive experiences. Adventure tourism is becoming an increasingly important part of experiential travel, and more and more travelers are spending their time hiking, backpacking, rafting, skydiving, and engaging in all sorts of other adventures that are typical for the places they are visiting.

Meaningful engagement with the local communities is also a growing trend in experiential travel. Forming an emotional connection with people in a foreign place is essential for creating lifelong memories, and an increasing number of people will spend their time visiting schools, museums, theaters, and similar places that the locals frequent in their daily lives.

But the way I see it, you should focus on experiences you’re genuinely interested in, and skip any experiences you might not enjoy, regardless of how local they are. An example of this would be if you were in London – maybe it would be a truly authentic local experience to spend an afternoon at a pub and go to a football match, but if that’s not something you would genuinely enjoy, you absolutely shouldn’t do it.

Instead, do something that’s fun for you – see a play at the Globe Theater, or spend an afternoon in the Natural History Museum, if that’s more up your alley.

The Future of Experiential Travel

Even with the rise of experiential travel among young adults, there is still absolutely a market for those who prefer to spend their vacation days lounging and relaxing. However, experiential travel has become extremely popular over the past few years, and it was in part a result of the global pandemic of 2020.

Most of the world was stuck for nearly a year, unable to leave their house properly, let alone travel to a new destination. When the countless restrictions were finely dropped and we were allowed to start traveling again, people wanted to get out of the house and do something.

The future of experiential travel lies in more personalized experiences and sustainability. More and more tour operators are shifting to offering immersive travel experiences to satisfy the growing demand for experiential trips. Also, the importance of AI is growing at the same time as the demand for experiential tours, and it’s hard to imagine a world in which the two don’t become integrated.

It’s expected that travel companies will turn to AI to help create unique and personalized itineraries and that VR will become a bit component of experiential travel. It’s only a matter of time until VR allows us to become fully immersed in destinations that we cannot physically visit, whether it’s a trip to Macchu Picchu from the comfort of your couch or a tour of ancient Rome.

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe

I bet we all miss planning every single detail about our upcoming travel schedules and destinations. At least I do, as well as preparing ahead of time to make it a memorable experience. However, I am starting to see some hope in the near future. Some of us are already able to travel a little more but still following the safety precautions.

When it comes to our travel adventures, given the current limitations brought by the pandemic, a lot of us are looking to spend it truly experiencing a place on a local and cultural level. We seek more than simply being in another country, taking a peek at the popular landmarks. We are in search of something that is lasting and we can bring with us once we get back home – could be shareable skills or teachings from rich history or traditions observed.

The Top 5 Things To Do In Europe On Autumn According To Top Travel Bloggers - Carcassonne France

This yearning of a different and holistic experience brought the rise of experiential travel. Definitely not a new concept, this term was already mentioned in different publications hundreds of years ago but has become much more significant. People long for a truly unique experience –immersion with the local culture and community, learning the local cuisine and traditions, engaging in a cultural excursion, or a historically-themed tour. Ever since then, the industry adapted to the demand and needs of the tourists offering these exceptional experiences that are often transformative.

One of the travel buzzwords of the moment is “authenticity” – customers slowly losing interest in packaged tourism and want to escape from homogenized experience in large groups which leads to a new breed of the packaged trip – striking the balance between assistance and freedom and of personalization and authenticity. Vacationers want more interactive experiences and not just passive visitors. As this trend is reshaping the industry, let’s take a look at ten of the best companies that have already started to work like this.

Recommended read: Packing List With 68 Essential Travel Accessories

10 Best Experiential Travel Agencies

This travel company founded by 2 ex-British army captains is currently disrupting the travel industry maximizing their military knowledge.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe - Pelorus Travel Agency

It is named after an old navigation tool used in the bearing of a sea vessel.

Pelorus does not just ensure a bespoke trip but also prepares contingencies for various scenarios gaining the trust and confidence of every client.

Employing a wide network of connections ranging from different government agencies, conversationalists, and events to research centers – no obstacle can stop you from completing a travel design.

Pelorus has made the impossible possible multiple times such as utilizing helicopter-assisted summits for those who aren’t physically capable of scaling up mountains.

Aside from its private adventures, it also explores the oceans through its yacht expedition pushing its boundaries.

2. Velocity Black

Velocity Black brings the world in the palm of your hands through their mobile application. This isn’t a travel agency but a travel planning app that allows you to book unique, experiential yours as well as luxury hotels and plane tickets at a discount.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe - Velocity black Travel agency

“Experiential travel agencies provide a travel experience that is not just about the destination, but about the journey, the people, and the experiences along the way.” — The Telegraph

Merging artificial intelligence and human capabilities to bring the most meaningful lives to travelers.

In a time where time is a scarce commodity, it seeks to remove the barriers and let people be who they want to be, living their lives to the fullest.

Velocity is like having an around-the-clock tourist assistant who lets you reach distant territories, buys you a VIP ticket, brings you to a Japanese hidden gem in New York, and gets you a ticket to space.

Basically, it gives you worldly experiences making travel dreams come true.

3. Luxurybared

Not just a state-of-the-art hotel reservation system but also offers ultra-luxury and experiential activities.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe - Luxurybared Travel Agency

“Experiential travel agencies offer a new way to travel that is focused on creating lasting memories and meaningful connections with local communities and cultures.” — The Independent

LuxuryBARED provides answers to what travelers are looking for spiced up with a unique insight to every destination around the world.

LuxuryBARED will let you enliven your adventurous spirit by hiking an active volcano within a lake in the Philippines, rake you on a private trip to pristine beaches in Croatia, or enriching yourself in a gastronomical quest in South Africa.

It provides travelers with the right tools to make the right travel choices armed together with an efficient system. LUXE membership is free, as they say, “there’s nothing to lose and everything to gain.”

4. Black Tomato

Black Tomato is like your friend telling you, I’ve been there and I understand you, every moment counts in your travel experience, allowing you to see every curated destination through their unique lens.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe - Black tomato Travel Agency

Every experience for every traveler is fashioned exclusively according to the preferred design of the customer.

Each design blueprint is unique for every traveler, nothing is ever repeated even for the same destination.

Aside from integrating aerial drones to capture different unreachable vantage points, it also brings you to an unknown and uncharted destination in order to find yourself in the process.

5. Vivid Travel

Vivid travel provides you with vivid experiences. Intertwining the extensive knowledge and on-the-ground experience of the travel designers, every client is ensured to be provided with idiosyncratic activities aligned to their blueprint in mind emphasizing flexibility and personalization.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe - Vivid Travel Agency

Highlights include a 16-day ‘Following the Phoenix’ in China – enjoying the famous soup dumplings, living the Avatar dream on a mountain hike, and experiencing the ‘Vegas of China.’ Meanwhile, take off to Ireland for a 14-day tour of the “Land of Thrones,” actively searching for the filming spots of the Game of Thrones – exploring Castle Greyjoy and touring the Winterfell.

Vivid gives you the steering wheel while it becomes your map to experience the desired journey while reaching the destination.

6. Abercrombie & Kent

Beginning in the plains of Africa, Abercrombie & Kent was developed, pioneering this new style of traveling and launching a new benchmark for every travel agency to follow.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe - Abercrombie & Kent Travel Agency

“Experiential travel agencies offer a unique and personalized way to travel that allows travelers to create their own adventure.” — National Geographic

The company has been creating memorable experiences in 100 countries across seven continents for 58 years employing their local virtuosity and insider access.

Fusing a premier dining experience, first-class accommodation and transportation invigorated with a local theme, it continuously and passionately delivers exceptional tours, giving you the journey of a lifetime.

Abercrombie & Kent brings you a holistic experience where it doesn’t only orbit around the place to be visited but also circles it about the clients.

7. Cohica

Combining culture, nature, food, and drink all at once, filling your suitcases with unforgettable memories and a better grasp and appreciation of the world we live in.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe - Cohica Travel Agency

Full flexibility and expeditious personalized planning, together with its emphasis on supporting local economies and ecosystems ensure exploration and immersion for every traveler.

Aiming to connect every traveler to the places they visit making the memories stay with them wherever they go.

Daring and exciting adventures are arranged from a rainforest to the jungle, swimming in the beaches to exploring the caves, and snorkeling and sailing ancient temples in the Belize Barrier Reef.

Meanwhile, in Europe, it shows the hidden gems of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest learning the abundant history and local culture.

8. MT Sobek

If you’re an adventure finder, MT Sobek is what you’re looking for.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe - MY Sobek Travel Agency

Each uniquely designed trip is meant to “exhilarate, enliven and excite” every traveler connecting with the nature and culture of the destination. Sobek is an adventure company.

Different audacious activities lined up are varied, from rafting and adventure in the national parks of North America to hiking and trekking in Alaska, or cultural immersion in Sudan.

9. LOCALIKE New York

Founder Manhattanite Leuzinger recognizes that pieces of advice from a local are cherished and valuable resources for every travel.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe - Licalike New York

LOCALIKE provides a direct, straightforward, simplified guide in New York despite its complexity.

With a simple process of completing a profile on the website, a personalized itinerary is crafted within 5 days by their local experts.

10. Niquesa Travel

Niquesa Travel unceasingly provides clients with hyper-bespoke travel experiences.

The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe - Niquesa Travel

“Experiential travel agencies offer a range of customized itineraries that are designed to meet the unique needs and interests of individual travelers.” — Lonely Planet

Each experience aims to deliver how the clients want to feel whole there not just where they want to go.

Each tour is designed to disconnect from pressures and distractions, reconnect with one another, rekindle and strengthen romance, escape the business and stress, indulge in quietness and stillness, and celebrate milestones.

Vacationers can choose to relax and have afternoon tea with a Maharaja in India, delve into the true concept of Zen in Japan, party in your private camp with a DJ on a glacier in Iceland, swim with the whale sharks in Mexico, or indulge in al fresco picnic of mouth-watering local lobster in Iceland.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Experiential travel agencies prioritize creating personalized, meaningful, and transformative experiences over standard vacation packages.

These agencies can arrange a wide range of experiences, including cultural immersion, adventure travel, culinary tours, wildlife encounters, wellness retreats, and more.

Yes, experiential travel agencies can create customized adventures for solo travelers, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience.

Many experiential travel agencies are committed to promoting sustainable and responsible travel practices, supporting local communities and protecting the environment.

Age restrictions can vary depending on the type of experience and destination. Some are family-friendly, while others may have age-specific requirements.

Did you know?

Experiential Travel Agencies are a new trend in the travel industry, offering travelers a unique and immersive way to experience the world. One fun fact about Experiential Travel Agencies is that they often offer customized itineraries that are tailored to the traveler’s preferences and interests. This means that travelers can enjoy a personalized travel experience that is designed just for them. Additionally, many Experiential Travel Agencies offer off-the-beaten-path destinations and experiences that are not typically found in traditional travel packages. This provides a unique and authentic travel experience that allows travelers to connect with local cultures and communities. Another fun fact is that Experiential Travel Agencies often partner with local guides and experts, providing travelers with insider knowledge and access to exclusive experiences that are not available to the general public.

Author’s Note

As there is an increasing number of travelers bidding adieu to ‘traditional’ sightseeing and the idea of ‘experiential travel’ has taken the world by storm, it has changed our bucket lists to more than just being able to go to a place, but really knowing and experiencing the culture and connecting to the locals. – exclusive network of the industry leader.

Authenticity seems to be the new mantra of modern-day travel. Ultimately, wherever you choose to go, whatever activity you choose to take, experiential travel is about bringing transformation, leading to self-discovery and growth. Like Anthony Bourdain, a famous travel documentarian, once said, “The extent to which you can walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food, it’s a plus for everybody.”

So, how’s experiential travel changing your bucket list?

Christian Petzold is a successful touristic entrepreneur, experiential traveller and round-the-world backpacker. He holds an academic degree in tourism management.

His touristic expertise has been covered in radio, newspaper and television.

15 thoughts on “ The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe ”

I love the idea of experiential travel. It may not be soon but I am looking forward to it. Thank you for sharing this. Will check out the app, Velocity Black for now.

I’d love to travel with Black Tomato. My interests are often so obscure and I have very high expectations when I travel, so it would be so nice to have someone tailor a trip specifically to my wants and needs.

This looks like such a great idea. I love the idea of planning one of these interesting experiential travels. Great to know there are travel agencies that specialize in this. Will definitely save this for when we start planning our travel adventures again. Definitely leaning towards the luxury offering!

Experiential Travel. That is a term I am not familiar with, but I love it. How you described a complete immersion of culture and community is exactly what we look for when we travel. An adventure themed company like MT Sobek sounds like something we will want to look into.

I’d love to read more about your adventures while exploring different cultures as soon as things get safer.

We are very much experiental travellers, and seek out food and cultural experiences in particular. I knew of some of these agencies and apps, but really appreciate your introduction to the rest. Definitely some I’ll be checking before my next trip.

This is definitely the best way to travel right?

Personally, I love that travel has moved towards focusing on authentic experiences rather than snapping the “picturesque” tourist spots. I particularly love the LOCALIKE travel agency that you included. Often times, we are lead by what’s posted by other travelers online rather than sourcing ideas from the locals themselves. I think taking a few days to slow down and appreciate the small, local favorite is so important in understanding fully what a destination has to offer. Great list! I’m definitely going to be looking at these agencies for inspiration for my upcoming travels.

Yes, we are so lucky that travel agencies are starting to post more about local and experiential activities so that the world can learn more about them.

Of course, travel industry is worst affected but better days will be back soon. Let us keep our fingers crossed. I quite like curated trips based on interest. I loved the interesting themes for these experiential travels. Black Tomato and Cohica sounds fun to me.

We are struggling to get back on out feet on Europe but at least some businesses have started to recover.

What a great resource you’ve created! Hopefully the world does open up and become normal again so that we can travel. Vivid Travel sounds very interesting. What a unique experience any of your recommendations would be!

We are also hoping for the world to be out playground again. Luckily in Europe, everything is slowly being reactivated but with a lot of restrictions.

I guess most of these do not operate in Asia or at least in India and I admit I have little knowledge about them. However, it is quite interesting to know how innovative some of these are. Not only do the provide interesting trips but go much beyond the regular bookings. Vivid travel seems like my kind of travel.

Yes, for some reason most of these still haven’t branched out to Asia, but hopefully, more travel agencies do in the near future.

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THE WORLD HAS CHANGED. WE WANT TO CREATE EXPERIENCES AS IF IT IS YOUR FIRST AND LAST TRIP. we believe THAT TRAVEL IS PRECIOUS AND A PRIVILEGE. WE APPROACH TRAVEL WITH THE conscious INTENT TO come home transformed.

WE think something is missing in travel. we ARE all so consumed with the how and the where, THAT WE ARE neglecting the why. why do you travel? deep down, we travel for change within. the outer view alters the inner view. yet many travel experiences don’t deliver.

we have tapped up the best talent in travel, those who have TAKEN MORE FLIGHTS THAN TINKERBELL AND SLEPT IN MORE BEDS THAN Goldilocks. We went to the writers, the influencers, the explorers, the philanthropists and we asked them one question …

what trip transformed you?

thE ANSWER TO THIS IS AT THE CENTRE oF how we curate OUR EXPERIENCES AND tell our stories. we curate the places that ignite the soul, PRODUCE THE experiences that tingle and CONNECT THE people who reverberate.

we want you to feel awe. awe is being in the presence of something vast that transcends one’s understanding of the world. awe has physical manifestations. goosebumps. wide eyes. heartier beats. chestier palps. the before and after is as joyous as the journey.

travel with intent. come home transformed.

“ aweventurer is an experiential travel company that takes glory-seeking travellers on life-changing expeditions under the guidance of skilled experts ”

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our founder is a travel writer and editor of close to a decade. we have seen what travel can do. how we return home new. we know the difference between an extraordinary trip and a mediocre one and we write about it so that you can experience the extraordinary and rarefied parts of the world. everyone should have access to a journey that will redefine their known parameters. aweventurer has enlisted the world’s best travellers to share their transformative journey.

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Just wanted to say a huge Thankyou for organising such a wonderful trip. We absolutely loved it, just not long enough for me. You considered every detail. Every camp was different and very unique and luxurious. We were treated like kings and queens which was kind of embarrassing. Africa is most certainly a captivating place and we loved interacting with our fabulous guides.

Kaye Moresi

... an excellent African holiday experience...

Experiential Travel crafted an excellent Africa holiday for us. All of our goals were met and fitted perfectly into the time available.

Barry Crouch

Melbourne, Australia.

Exceeded Every Expectation!

We've been waiting to take this trip for 30 years and had a very clear idea of what we wanted to see and do. Neville created an itinerary that incorporated it all and then some; from safari to the great migration to gorilla and chimpanzee trekking to boat rides with hippos and cultural immersion. This trip had it all. Accommodations and experiences were amazing with knowledgable guides and a... Read this review

Kelly and David Cooke

Washougal, WA.

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Experiential Travel Explained: Players, Distribution Landscape, and Opportunities

12 min read
Business , Travel
Published: 14 Jul, 2022
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Reality must be experienced.

In the last few years (and especially after the pandemic), travel trends have dramatically shifted and multiple studies prove it. For example, TripAdvisor's Travel in 2022 Report discovered that about three-quarters of travelers are willing to see new places with priorities such as having new experiences and learning about history and culture not far behind.

TripAdvisor‘s “Travel in 2022: A Look Ahead” Report

Nine out of ten Razorfish study respondents believe the most important keepsake from a trip is a story to tell about it, while 79 percent say that traveling isn’t about getting to a new place, it’s about how you grow as a result of the journey. Moreover, half of Gen Z respondents said they want to get out of their comfort zone and crave a sense of risk and excitement while traveling. Expedia even gave it a name. They called 2022 the year of GOAT – Greatest of All Trips – mindset. Their research shows that 40 percent of travelers dream about trying new food, 31 percent crave for local delicacies, and 23 percent look for off-the-beaten track experiences and destinations. Summing up, we can say that today’s travelers no longer want to spend their vacation hopping on and off the sightseeing bus on the packaged group tour or chilling lazily next to the pool with a cocktail at the all-inclusive hotel without ever leaving the premises (well, we’ll be honest, some still do). Instead of that flight-and-flop style, many vacationers are hungry for excitement, cultural immersion, and new experiences. Obviously, the travel industry has to keep up with customer demand, so today we explore what experiential tourism is about and how travel businesses can capitalize on this surging appetite for exclusivity and adventure.

What is experiential travel?

Experiential travel is a form of tourism that implies an active and meaningful engagement with a destination’s culture, people, and/or environment to create unique, memorable experiences. It’s the story about visiting new destinations, keeping off the beaten path, encountering authentic local experiences, and just doing something extraordinary. And we not only mean actual activities here. Sometimes even staying in an unusual lodging such as a glamping cabin or a treehouse can be an experience of a lifetime. Experiential travel is often confused with immersive and adventure travel (actually, Adventure Trade Travel Association or ATTA suggests adventure tourism as the main unifying term).

2022 ADVENTURE TRAVEL INDUSTRY SNAPSHOT by ATTA

However, we believe these concepts aren’t interchangeable. In fact, experiential travel can be seen as an umbrella for the other two. Here’s why. Immersive travel implies, well, immersing in the foreign culture which in most cases means mingling with the community at the place of destination, engaging in traditional activities, attending local events, and so on. It can be anything from booking a homestay instead of a hotel to volunteering at the nearby field to attending a weekend flea market or a local yoga class – you get the idea. Meanwhile, adventure travel is more about physical activities. It can be something safe (for the most part) and moderately active like camping or hiking – or more on a sports and even adrenaline-rush side, like skydiving, rafting, bungee jumping, mountain climbing, and so on.

How Adventure Travel Skyrocketed After Pandemic

Watch our beautiful video about the post-pandemic surge of adventure travel

So, as you can see, both of these groups are about getting vivid experiences, with the first one involving deep connection with the locals and getting to know the local culture, and the second one (that can even be done alone and in one’s own country) involving an active outdoor pastime. Now that we’re done with the basics, let’s talk about how businesses can actually help adventure-seeking travelers plan and organize the vacation of their dreams.

Experiential travel ecosystem: business models, distribution, technologies, and representatives

If you run or plan to launch a travel business and want to capitalize on the experiential tourism trend, here are options on how to fit in.

Experiential travel distribution

Local service suppliers: building the base of the pyramid

Local suppliers are the ones that create the initial travel products. As we said, experiential travel is tightly connected to either traditional, authentic practices that only locals can demonstrate or unique, out-of-the-mainstream services provided by specialized, niche businesses. Real-world examples. Basically, any entity that offers the tours and attractions (T&A) services can be placed in this category, be it an amusement park, a Bedouin renting out a camel, a ski resort, or a Chinese farmer demonstrating his rice field. Some of them can be called tour operators if what they do is showing tourists around or arranging guided tours of any kind (pub crawls, coffee tastings, mountain trekking – you name it). Inventory sourcing and distribution. Local suppliers don’t have to source inventory, but they distribute it to all other players including the end consumer. Technologies. Typically, small companies are poorly digitized or not digitized at all, so they manage their operations with spreadsheets and often use distributors’ extranets to create entries and update availability manually. Bigger businesses can adopt itinerary building software (e.g., TripCreator ), a channel manager (e.g., TripAdmit ), or even a focused, multi-featured tour operator platform (e.g., TrekkSoft ) that can assist with scheduling, multi-channel distribution, partner relationships, analytics, and so on.

Tour operators: providing turn-key services

Tour operators are travel companies that devise itineraries, create corresponding multi-component tour packages, sell them to travel agents or travelers, and make sure everything goes well from the start to the end of the trip, having full responsibility to the traveler. Most tour operators have something to offer to adventure lovers. Whether organized by the company itself or sourced from third-party suppliers, such experiential travel products find their place in the overall portfolio. Real-world examples. Tour operators are in a big category that includes a variety of businesses. There are large, well-known companies (like TUI or Jet2holidays ) that even operate their own airlines or hotel chains, so that they not only source inventory from external travel suppliers, but use their own as well. Also, there are niche tour operators that only focus on experiential travel (e.g., Intrepid Travel , Exodus , or Adventure.Travel ) or the ones that specialize on unique, tailor-made luxury tours crafted from scratch for every traveler (e.g., Abercrombie & Kent , Scott Dunn , Black Tomato , ETG , etc.). Besides, as we said, small local companies that sell just one or several local products like a guided tour, safari, cooking classes, or other local activities, join in as well.

Black Tomato’s Unique Experiences category

Inventory sourcing and distribution. Tour operators source inventory from local suppliers or create their own travel offerings. They distribute their products to OTAs, DMCs, or other operators, list them on marketplaces, or sell directly to travelers (in the office or via website). Technologies. Here, again, it all depends on the size and resources of the company. Small operators manage with spreadsheets, emails, and phone calls, while big players implement a full-blown, specialized system or even develop a custom solution to cover all the operational needs. Mid-sized operators often adopt standalone modules to streamline one or several business aspects such as

itinerary creation and scheduling (tour builders),
online booking ( booking engines ),
multi-channel distribution management (channel managers),
customer relationships (CRM systems),
content management (CMSs),
reporting and analytics ( BI tools ), and so on.

In addition, to facilitate and automate the B2B interaction, bigger companies often develop a suite of APIs to enable integration and share product details with their partners. In case you’re not familiar with the concept, watch our explainer on APIs in travel.

How travel systems talk to each other | Hotel Booking System | Travel APIs

Connectivity in the travel industry

Destination management companies: contracting local experiences

Destination management companies or DMCs are similar to tour operators in a sense that they also organize the travel itinerary, create packages, and usually work with multiple suppliers to make all the necessary arrangements. However, since DMCs usually operate from the said destination, they have a deeper knowledge of its specifics, regional potential, and local suppliers. They offer a wider scope of services, including airport transfers, vehicle rentals and other types of logistics support, hotel and restaurant bookings, tailored activities and workshops, themed corporate events, and much more. Having extensive knowledge of the destination’s touristic resources, DMCs can offer the most unusual experiences to those who want to stay off the beaten path and try something new and authentic. Real-world examples. There are global DMCs like JTB Group that operates 508 offices within 143 cities worldwide and local ones that specialize in just one region or country like SAT Mexico DMC . Inventory sourcing and distribution. To source inventory, DMCs work with tour operators and direct travel product suppliers big and small. They sometimes act as hotel wholesalers ( bed banks ), contracting allotments from local accommodation providers. Then they bundle inventory into packages and, just like tour operators, sell directly to the customers, partner with distributors, or work through marketplaces. Technologies. Since the line between tour operators and DMCs is very blurry and their operational models are so similar, the list of software that can come in handy is the same. Though some vendors have solutions tailored specifically to the needs of DMCs (e.g., eTOS ).

Focused T&A marketplaces: aggregating offerings for every taste

Tours and attractions (T&A) marketplaces do not create, conduct, or buy tours for reselling. They only connect suppliers with consumers and distributors and earn their commission if the tour is booked. Here’s how it works. Tour operators list their products on the marketplace platform, increasing their customer reach. The marketplaces often offer expert coaching to their suppliers (e.g., on marketing or technology), as well as payment processing services and analytics tools. On the other side, travel agents (or other resellers like travel bloggers) partner with marketplaces to earn commissions on the bookings made through affiliate links/widgets located on their own websites, social media, blogs, or other digital platforms. Typically, they also can enjoy the support team’s patronage and access to useful tips, analytics, and other handy perks that depend on the platform.

Travel Experiences: How Viator, GetYourGuide, Peek, and Others Change Tours and Attractions Industry

Check our video about how T&A marketplaces emerged and evolved

Real-world examples. Viator , owned by TripAdvisor, is the largest T&A marketplace. When searching for a destination, travelers can see different categories of activities, with Eco Tours, Nature and Wildlife Tours, and Outdoor Activities being some of the options.

Viator’s activity categories

GetYourGuide , one of Viator's main competitors, also has a Nature and Adventure category for active travelers. Those who prefer other experiences like cultural immersion will have to browse through alternative activity types like Workshops and classes, Other experiences, or Guided tours. Inventory sourcing and distribution. T&A marketplaces usually work with direct suppliers and tour operators/DMCs, offering extranet interfaces to manage listings. Inventory is either sold directly to travelers or through resellers like OTAs and affiliate partners. As we said, travel bloggers or eCommerce sites can place affiliate links, banners, or widgets on their platforms and earn commissions on bookings. Big marketplaces support a more complex integration and offer a set of APIs that allow distributors to connect and source all product information automatically. Then, depending on the partnership mode, resellers can either enable booking via their own platform or redirect to the marketplace for reservation and payment processing. Technologies. There are specialized marketplace builders (like Sharetribe ) that help develop such platforms. Their features include powerful search capabilities, transaction and content management, a booking engine, extranet for suppliers, communication channels, plus a set of business and pricing rules to handle different types of workflows. But of course, big players build their own custom solutions from scratch.

Travel agencies: complementing portfolio with T&A

When we say travel agencies, in most cases we mean online travel agencies or OTAs. Those are websites that sell all sorts of travel products, separately or packaged in bundles. Real-world examples. If you look at the biggest players like Booking.com , Expedia , or Airbnb , you’ll see that all of them have a T&A section of some kind with subcategories that help filter propositions at a specific destination. This way, OTAs cater to those travelers who do the research and planning themselves and want to find out what they can experience during the trip.

Expedia T&A offerings

Inventory sourcing and distribution. Basically, an OTA business model is similar to that of a marketplace, but the range of products they deal with is much wider. They are the main retailers in the travel market and their inventory comes from all possible sources: direct suppliers, wholesalers, marketplaces, or bigger OTAs. Then it’s resold on a markup or commission basis via their own websites. Technologies. Well-digitized OTAs have three main tech components:

the front side which is their website or traveler app;
the back side where the booking engine, databases, accounting, and other internal systems function; and
the provider side which regulates connections to suppliers.

Consider reading our article about an OTA’s back office to learn about their tech infrastructure in detail or watch a short video explainer by our travel expert.

How Back Office Works in Online Travel Agency

Back office in OTAs explained

Travel app developers: suggesting a focused solution

Travel apps provide a distinct way of assisting independent travelers. Today, the world functions on smartphones; so, if you do it right, your product will definitely find its fans (be sure to check our tips on how to make a smashing T&A mobile app ). Such apps typically do not sell anything, but they help with the search, provide information, and redirect to the provider page for booking (if relevant). So, to get your potential customers the information they want, you’ll have to connect to data providers and experts in the area, depending on what you want to focus on. For example, any navigation app would need mapping data, so you’ll probably have to connect to, say, Google Maps or OSM , while if you want to add reviews to places you highlight, look at Yelp as a source. For inspiration, check out some of the popular apps.

AllTrails is a beautiful navigation app for hikers, runners, or bikers.
Couchsurfing is a well-known platform to request homestays and interact with locals all over the world.
Campspot helps find and book campgrounds.
Workaway , Woldpackers , or WWOOF connect those who need assistance with volunteers who are willing to help (and get to know the culture from inside).
eBird introduces you to the world of birding and our feathered friends, and so on.

the AllTrails app Planning feature

Besides such focused platforms, there are a lot of travel guides and assistants that help you find interesting places and unusual activities wherever you go (though more often than not, these are the apps developed by OTAs or marketplaces), e.g., Like a Local , Yelp , Atlas Obscura , etc. If you want to develop your own app, the sky's the limit regarding ideas. Maybe you’ll fashion a platform for treasure hunters, or a brand new travelers social network with an AI-powered speech translator to facilitate communication, or maybe collect information about all the cooking classes or Buddhist retreats in the world – who knows?

What to consider when starting an experiential travel business

Whether you already have a travel business and want to supplement your portfolio with experiential tourism offerings or are thinking about entering the market, we have a few tips for you to keep in mind.

Inventory management and integrations

If you plan to source travel products from third-party suppliers, carefully compare their terms, conditions, pricing models, services, and integration options. Connecting via APIs is always a great way to avoid manual mistakes and have the most up-to-date information. However, be aware that your most authentic products might come from local suppliers who are the least digitized.

Distribution

Balancing your distribution channels and finding an optimal mix is of the same importance as choosing suppliers. Partner with resellers and advertise on marketplaces; create a network of affiliates and cooperate with in-destination merchants like tourist information deals and hotels; consider adopting a channel manager and a point-of-sale software to sync availability and boost personal sales. However, if you want to create a high-end brand image, you’ll have to be more selective and use carefully chosen channels to create exclusive offers for your target customer group.

Your advertising and promotional strategy can be a real gamechanger. Research the market to find your target customers, where to reach them, and ways to attract them. Work on SEO, connect to customers on social media, promote your company on review and local information websites. Visit our separate posts on marketing and personalization in travel to learn more on how to draw people’s attention.

Online and mobile presence

Creating a robust website with an intuitive user flow and an easy-to-use mobile app is a must in today’s digital world. Remember about localization aspects, consider offering inbuilt communication channels like chatbots , and be careful when choosing a payment gateway provider (if you enable booking).

Sustainability strategy

Today, experiential travel and sustainable , or green travel are among the top trends (alongside concern about health and safety procedures and demand for contactless experience). And as studies show, they not only coexist but also correlate as most adventure-seeking travelers are also concerned about environmental and climate issues.

FREQUENT TRAVELERS, CLIMATE AND WHAT TO DO: TRAVELERS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS study by ATTA

Experiential travel benefits local communities . Another reason these two trends are closely interconnected is that experiential travel heavily engages local communities in touristic activities. That brings along direct social benefits – from immediate income generation to overall infrastructure development – which is one of the main aspects of sustainable travel. Besides, getting to know the local culture helps increase awareness and preserve the traditions and authenticity of the destination community. A 2022 Booking.com Sustainable Travel Report reveals that sustainability is important to 81 percent of travelers. The same report shows that 66 percent want to have authentic experiences that are representative of the local culture away from popular tourist attractions with 45 percent believing that protecting and learning about local cultures is part of sustainable travel. Sadly though, around 40 percent of respondents indicated that they don't know how or where to find activities or tours that ensure they are actually having a positive impact and giving back to the local community. Adventure travel is an alternative to high-emission flights . In addition to that, environment-friendly adventure travel offers a great alternative to taking distant flights or bus tours that generate harmful emissions, so the increased share of such kinds of tourism can also help reduce the negative impact of the travel industry. What can travel companies do? Being aware about the importance of green initiatives for adventure-seeking travelers, what can you as a travel company do to be in line with today’s trends? Here are some ideas.

Get certification -- some industry-recognized certifications that verify high social and environmental performance, compliance with standards, and commitment to sustainable business practices are Travelife , GSTC , or B Corp .
Offset emissions -- carbon offsetting compensates for your harmful impact by investing in emission reduction projects such as reforestation, biofuel usage, and so on.
Adjust itineraries and travel products -- by choosing more environment-friendly accommodation options, transportation, and suppliers.
Fundraise for communities at your destinations.
Finance research.
Educate your partners and customers to work and travel responsibly.

Also remember to not only commit and contribute to social, economic, and environmental improvement, but also promote your efforts and showcase results – to attract like-minded travelers.

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Dive into Experiential Trips for a New Way to Travel

Every day, new travel trends pop up. This is great, because it means there are more ways than ever to take a unique and personalized vacation. This guide, created with the help of leisure travel advisors dedicated to optimizing your travel experience, explores the recent trend of experiential travel. To understand experiential trips, we’ll describe what they are and what to think about when building an itinerary. To help understand what makes experiential trips unique, we’ll compare them to immersion travel, another major travel trend. Is there a difference between the two? We think so. Plus, we’ll suggest a few destinations that make for mind-blowing experiential trips.

Exclusive Offers .

Why experiential travel?

Veteran travelers know that a great domestic or international destination is just part of what makes an amazing trip. The itinerary is what takes the vacation from time away to time well spent.

An itinerary focused on experiential travel is one way to get the most from any destination. Experiential travel can be thought of as interactive travel. It’s active, instead of passive, and involves engaging up close with a destination’s attractions, activities, and events. Experiential travel can be done solo or in a group . The key aspect of experiential travel is to bring an open mind to and a passion for whatever a destination has to offer.

Savvy experiential travelers know that sometimes the destination can be secondary to an itinerary. Instead of choosing the most popular destinations, start by choosing your preferred experiential activities.

Experiential vs Immersion Travel

Experiential travel might be best understood by comparing it to immersive travel. Immersive travel happens when travelers engage with the customs and the culture of a location. Someone engaging in immersion travel might work with a travel advisor to uncover important historical sites to visit and plan an itinerary that exposes them to traditional foods and cultural practices. In a word, it’s about a travel experience authentic to a destination’s past and modern day legacy.

An experiential travel itinerary can certainly include engaging with a culture’s important customs and traditions, but can also include modern attractions. In fact, immersive travel can sometimes require a light footprint with an environmentally-conscious ecotourism itinerary that respects local conservation initiatives. Cultural immersion, even through experiential travel, requires a respectful level of integration into one’s surroundings.

Experiential travelers are typically not as concerned with whether or not an activity, event, or attraction represents a region and its people’s past. They are concerned with engagement across activity types. Experiential itineraries are often jam-packed with activities that allow a person meaningful physical and emotional engagement. Some examples of experiential travel might be to attend a luau in Hawaii, take a ride in a Formula One car in Morocco, or head on a safari in South Africa . These activities may have roots in a destination’s natural or historical characteristics but are also modernized, making them an engaging experience rather than an immersive one.

Experiential Travel Destinations

Building an experiential travel itinerary means finding a destination offering deep and meaningful experiences. The countries on this list certainly qualify.

This island nation might be one of the best experiential travel destinations in the world. While generally considered more closed off in terms of its culture, the Japanese people are usually welcoming to tourists. Three hallmarks of the Japanese travel experience are experiencing its urban centers, its traditional food markets , and its religious landmarks, usually located on the outskirts of populated regions. Japan also offers a range of boutique hotel experiences that capture the attention to detail and exceptional customer service that Japan’s tourism industry is famous for. Plan your itinerary for the right time of year and Japan also hosts a number of cultural festivals emblematic of the nation’s beauty and commitment to tradition.

2. Costa Rica

While this nation often captures headlines for its affordability and exceptional healthcare system, it is also notable for its natural attractions. A detailed experiential Costa Rica itinerary can include loads of adventure including wildlife cruises, hot air balloon rides, and guided ziplining tours deep in the nation’s mountain forests.

This Mediterranean nation is a veteran traveler’s dream. Visit Morocco solo or as part of a small group for an experiential travel adventure you won’t forget. The nation is famous for its open-air bazaar shopping that will make you feel like a member of the community. After shopping, take a camel ride to discover the beauty of Moroccan landscapes. These tours of the Moroccan countryside are led by guides with a deep knowledge of Moroccan heritage and geography. Guided camel rides are popular and should be booked well in advance!

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What Is Experiential Tourism?

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“Experiential tourism” has become a popular term for travel marketers, but it can mean different things to different people. For some, experiential travel means doing anything that falls outside of a standard sightseeing, museum-going itinerary. For others, it is defined by interactions with locals or by going to places that might not be considered tourist attractions at all.

The definitions might be different, but the goals of experiential travelers are usually similar: to immerse themselves in a way that leads to some sort of discovery, insight or inspiration. This travel philosophy is usually championed by fully independent travelers (those who travel without help from agents or guides), but tour companies and even non-profit organizations have embraced the trend, promising transformative experiences to people who buy their vacation packages or join their volun-tourism programs .

Is experiential tourism redefining travel or is it a fad that will eventually fade? If it is a lasting travel trend, how will it affect off-the-beaten-path destinations that usually do not see many mainstream tourists?

Leveling the field

For some places, the experiential travel trend could be a game-changer. Smaller destinations cannot hope to compete with tourism heavyweights when it comes to infrastructure, advertising budget and investment. They can, however, differentiate themselves by focusing on the unique experiences they offer.

Manitoba provides an example. The oft-forgotten Canadian province highlights how local tour companies and communities can use the experiential trend to gain an edge in the ultra-competitive travel marketplace. Travel Manitoba explains that small operators can “avoid unnecessary risks and major investments by shifting the opportunity focus from building more infrastructure to building the capacity of people who can tell your ‘story' and connect with the traveler.”

According to Manitoba’s tourism stakeholders, the “ingredients” of a successful experiential tourism strategy include hands-on activities and interactions with locals . They also highlight the need for guides to change their approach to guiding. The goal should be to facilitate tours so that tourists can make discoveries and gain insights on their own.

Can all smaller destinations benefit?

On paper, the Manitoba approach sounds like a great idea, but is it practical? Some conscientious travelers might choose a destination because they want to support such grassroots efforts, but most are, first and foremost, seeking experiences. If they want to succeed, these destinations have to deliver.

New Zealand’s tourism development in recent decades suggests that experiential tourism can indeed help off-the-radar places develop into mainstream destinations. Admittedly, this Southern Hemisphere country was able to take advantage of the buzz from the "Lord of the Rings" movies to help its tourism efforts. However, New Zealand has stuck with advertising campaigns that focus on adventure and culture rather than on attractions related to the popular films.

Adventure sports, culinary and wine tourism, and cultural excursions have led to a boom for New Zealand in both the U.S. and Asia Pacific markets. This has happened at a grassroots level, with more than nine out every 10 tour companies in the country having fewer than five employees. This means that even if people are there for the skiing or wine and nothing else, they will often be interacting directly with local people in a way that is more personal than in destinations with more traditional tourism infrastructure.

An emotional connection

Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island has, like Manitoba, published a list of ingredients, which they call “essentials,” necessary for a successful experiential tourism sector. Keywords like “hands on” and “authentic” are part of this document, but so is something else: “emotion.” In other words, the goal of travelers is to find experiences that allow them to feel a connection to a place rather than to just see it.

This is not a new idea. You often hear people express affection for major world cities like Paris, Hong Kong or New York without ever mentioning the Eiffel Tower, Victoria Peak or Times Square. Perhaps the real allure of experiential tourism is that it makes it acceptable to seek out this kind of emotional connection.

A win for sustainability

The issue of sustainability might be important to travelers, but it might not always be practical to travel in a sustainable way and to support the preservation of local culture and ecosystems. This is especially true in mainstream tourist destinations.

Experiential tourism, on the other hand, can make sustainability more practical when it comes to both culture and the environment.

How is this possible?

Uniqueness is one of the biggest assets that a place can have when it comes to experiential tourism. Ideally, tourists who are interested in this kind of travel would reward a destination for preserving its nature, culture, historic architecture and other aspects of their destination by spending their travel budget there.

Culinary tourism

Ulf Liljankoski / Flickr

One of the most popular forms of experiential travel is culinary tourism. This can involve visiting neighborhood restaurants or markets with a local guide, or it could be more in-depth and include cooking classes, wine tastings and even picking trips to farms or gardens. La Boqueria, a classic market in Barcelona, has been successful at offering cooking classes and other immersive experiences to people who would otherwise only come there to sightsee.

Food tourism is currently one of the most accessible forms of experiential travel. Tourists seem drawn to culinary experiences , proving that experiential travel can cross over into the mainstream. The foodie trend also shows that worries about the "McDonald's-ization" of the world are unfounded.

An authentic image

Andri Koolme / Flickr

Social media has played a part in the rise of culinary tourism. Whole social accounts are based on nothing but pictures of raw ingredients and beautifully plated dishes. This points to a larger trend that shows that, like it or not, social media is how people connect with and get inspired by like-minded travelers. What does this mean for experiential travel?

The “Instagram effect” is real, and marketing offices have started inviting photographers with large Instagram followings on press junkets. This has helped to redefine travel , with people wanting to have the same experiences as those they see on social media.

At a recent tourism event, the head of marketing for the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chattan Kunjara na Ayudhya, pointed out that the process of taking images to post on social media can be beneficial for experiential travelers if the images are authentic. “An authentic image can tell a very complex story in a very simple way. These simple images are shared by travelers on a day to day basis.”

He went on the explain that destinations and tourism industry stakeholders should be responsible for presenting tourists with the opportunities to create such images. “We need to make sure that we are creating authentic experiences that are shareable."

Volunteer, see the world

Another aspect of experiential tourism involves immersing yourself in something that you are truly passionate about. This could be cooking, pottery or something more obscure, like the conservation of wild plants. Such nature-based immersive experiences are offered in Southern Oregon by the Wild River Coast Alliance , which organizes programs that support communities and ecology in the region.

For some, simply getting beyond the tourist trail and seeing the real culture of a destination is the ultimate example of experiential tourism. This has always been a popular option for youth travelers or so-called “gap-year” tourists. Tour packages offering such experiences often have an educational angle (studying abroad or participating in a language immersion program). Some involve homestays or volunteering on development projects while living abroad.

Understanding the place

Are tourists simply ticking experiences off their to-do list just as they’d tick off sightseeing sites, or are they actually gaining understanding of the places that they visit? The criticism of the experiential trend is that immersion experiences are, in general, just another way to package tourism. The trend may allow smaller destinations to capitalize on their unique attributes, but the travelers are still short-term visitors whose travel experiences are lacking .

Is it possible to be overzealous in this pursuit of experiences? In Luang Prabang, an historic city and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Laos, one tradition has become quite popular with tourists. The practice of donating food to feed the city’s monks occurs every morning. Local people congregate at the roadside and put food into the monks’ bowls as they walk past. Tourists began coming early in the morning to photograph the procession-like practice. Some even take part, raising concerns that this once quiet, solemn religious affair has descended into a noisy spectacle.

The Luang Prabang Airport reportedly has signs that offer advice on how to participate in the almsgiving in a respectful way.

The future of experiential tourism

The demand for air travel is expected to double in the next two decades. Tourism is growing at a steady rate. Despite criticisms and drawbacks, the growth of experiential tourism could allow smaller players in the tourism industry to benefit from this growth without having to sacrifice their culture, sell their land to developers or change the way that they live.

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Experiential Travel and the Essence of Authentic Exploration

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Post author: Applied Worldwide Lifestyle
Post published: June 6, 2023
Post category: Sustainability / Travel
Reading time: 7 mins read

In a world that often feels saturated with routine and predictable experiences, the concept of experiential travel emerges as a breath of fresh air, beckoning adventurers and wanderers to embark on a transformative journey. Experiential travel goes beyond simply visiting a destination; it focuses on immersing oneself in the culture, traditions, and activities of a place, allowing for meaningful connections, personal growth, and lifelong memories.

In this blog, we delve into the realm of experiential travel, exploring its essence, significance, and the profound impact it can have on individuals.

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Understanding Experiential Travel

Experiential travel is a mindset, a philosophy that encourages travelers to embrace the spirit of adventure, curiosity, and discovery. It is about engaging with a destination on a deeper level, stepping outside of comfort zones, and actively participating in the local way of life. It involves seeking out authentic experiences, connecting with locals, and immersing oneself in the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse tapestry of a place.

The Significance of Experiential Travel

Cultural immersion.

Experiential travel provides an opportunity to delve into the heart and soul of a destination. By interacting with locals, participating in cultural rituals, and engaging in traditional activities, travelers gain a profound understanding and appreciation for the customs, traditions, and values of a place. This immersive experience fosters cross-cultural understanding, empathy, and respect.

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Personal Growth

Stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and embracing new experiences is a catalyst for personal growth. Experiential travel pushes individuals to challenge their limits, confront their fears, and develop resilience. Whether it’s trying a new cuisine, learning a local craft, or embarking on an outdoor adventure, these experiences expand horizons, build confidence, and nurture a sense of self-discovery.

Authentic Connections

Experiential travel is all about forging genuine connections with people. Engaging with locals, sharing stories, and participating in community activities create lasting friendships and meaningful bonds. These connections transcend borders, leaving a lasting impact on both travelers and the communities they visit.

Environmental Consciousness

Experiential travel encourages a mindful approach to the environment. It promotes sustainable practices, responsible tourism, and a deep respect for nature. By engaging in eco-friendly activities and supporting local conservation efforts , travelers contribute to the preservation of natural wonders and biodiversity for future generations.

Experiential Travel in Practice

Engage with local communities.

Seek out homestays, community-based tourism initiatives, or local guides who can offer insights into the destination’s culture and traditions. Participate in local festivals, join cooking classes, or learn traditional art forms to truly immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace the natural wonders of a destination by engaging in outdoor activities that bring you closer to nature . Trekking through lush forests, kayaking in pristine waters, or camping under a starry sky can ignite a sense of wonder and appreciation for the world’s natural beauty.

Volunteering and Giving Back

Dedicate a portion of your travel to volunteering for local causes. Engage in community development projects, conservation efforts, or educational initiatives that allow you to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of the destination and its inhabitants.

Slow Travel

Embrace a slower pace of exploration, allowing yourself to truly absorb the essence of a place. Avoid rushing from one tourist attraction to another and instead savor the moments, taking time to connect with the surroundings and the people.

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Final Thoughts on Experiential Travel

Experiential travel is a transformative way of exploring the world , offering a rich tapestry of authentic experiences, personal growth, and cultural immersion. By venturing beyond the surface-level tourist attractions, experiential travelers unlock the true essence of a destination. It is through these meaningful connections and immersive encounters that they create lifelong memories and gain a deeper understanding of the world.

In a society where time seems to move at an accelerated pace, experiential travel reminds us to slow down, embrace the present moment, and truly engage with our surroundings. It encourages us to step out of our comfort zones, challenge our perspectives, and broaden our horizons. By doing so, we develop a sense of empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine appreciation for the diverse tapestry of humanity.

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Experiential Travel: A Comprehensive Guide

Experiential travel is a form of tourism that focuses on experiencing a country, city, or region by actively engaging with its history, people, culture, and environment. This type of travel goes beyond the traditional sightseeing and relaxation, aiming to provide travelers with immersive and authentic experiences that enhance their understanding and appreciation of a destination.

Key Characteristics of Experiential Travel

Authenticity: Experiential travel emphasizes authentic interactions with local communities, traditions, and environments. Travelers are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and engage with the destination on a deeper level.
Immersion: Immersing oneself in the local culture is a fundamental aspect of experiential travel. This can involve participating in cultural activities, trying local cuisine, and learning about the history and customs of the destination.
Engagement: Experiential travel encourages active participation and engagement with the destination. This can include volunteering, attending workshops, or taking part in hands-on experiences that allow travelers to connect with the local community.
Sustainability: Many experiential travel experiences are designed to be sustainable and responsible. This can involve supporting local businesses, minimizing environmental impact, and respecting local customs and traditions.
Personal Growth: Experiential travel often leads to personal growth and self-discovery. By stepping outside of their comfort zones and experiencing new things, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Examples of Experiential Travel Experiences

There are countless ways to engage in experiential travel, depending on the destination and the interests of the traveler. Some popular examples include:

Homestays: Staying with a local family allows travelers to experience daily life in a different culture, learn about local customs, and forge meaningful connections with the community.
Culinary Tours: Exploring a destination through its cuisine is a delicious way to experience local culture. Cooking classes, food tours, and visits to markets can provide insight into the culinary traditions of a region.
Adventure Travel: Activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife safaris offer thrilling experiences while allowing travelers to connect with nature and explore the natural beauty of a destination.
Cultural Workshops: Participating in workshops on traditional crafts, music, dance, or art can provide a hands-on experience of a destination's cultural heritage.
Volunteer Programs: Volunteering with local organizations or community projects can be a rewarding way to give back to the destination and make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Benefits of Experiential Travel

Experiential travel offers a range of benefits for both travelers and the destinations they visit. Some of the key advantages include:

Cultural Understanding: By engaging with local communities and traditions, travelers can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures.
Personal Enrichment: Experiential travel can lead to personal growth, self-discovery, and the development of new skills and interests.
Memorable Experiences: Immersive experiences and meaningful interactions can create lasting memories that go beyond typical tourist activities.
Supporting Local Communities: Experiential travel can help support local economies, preserve cultural heritage, and promote sustainable tourism practices.
Environmental Awareness: By engaging with nature and participating in eco-friendly activities, travelers can develop a greater appreciation for the environment and the need for conservation.

Challenges of Experiential Travel

While experiential travel offers many benefits, it also presents some challenges that travelers and destinations need to consider:

Over-tourism: Popular experiential travel destinations may face issues of over-tourism, leading to environmental degradation, cultural commodification, and strain on local resources.
Cultural Appropriation: Travelers engaging in cultural activities need to be mindful of respecting local customs, traditions, and intellectual property rights to avoid cultural appropriation.
Sustainability: Ensuring that experiential travel experiences are sustainable and responsible requires careful planning, monitoring, and collaboration with local communities and stakeholders.
Accessibility: Some experiential travel experiences may be inaccessible to travelers with physical disabilities or limited mobility, highlighting the need for inclusive and accessible tourism practices.
Authenticity: As experiential travel becomes more popular, there is a risk of experiences becoming commercialized or staged for tourists, compromising the authenticity of the interactions.

Experiential travel offers a unique and enriching way to explore the world, connect with different cultures, and create meaningful memories. By engaging with local communities, traditions, and environments, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of the destinations they visit and contribute to sustainable tourism practices. While there are challenges to consider, the benefits of experiential travel make it a rewarding and transformative experience for those seeking to broaden their horizons and embrace new adventures.

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What is experiential travel and why are travellers going to demand more?

Regional Product Manager in the Americas, Simon Lindsay, shares his insight on the shifting demand from the traditional flop and drop to immersive, multi-day experiential travel within the North American market.

The world has changed. We hear this phrase more often due to several factors impacting our planet: the COVID pandemic, climate change, political instability and uprisings, the demand for a better world… However, one thing has remained constant: our desire to connect with people and our planet. People want to reconnect with friends and family, want to escape the stresses of daily life, learn new things, and have new experiences. 2020 gave us time to reflect on what is important; we became more aware of our personal wellbeing. These factors will be important considerations when travel returns.

The media reports on a substantial pent-up demand for travel as borders reopen and flights resume. Holidays, of course, are synonymous with good feelings, great memories, and the escape from the daily grind. But what type of vacation do people want to take, as they make up for ‘lost’ time?

Discova-Dominican-Republic experiential travel

Whilst flop-and-drop continues to be one of the main reasons for travel to the Caribbean/Americas, we are seeing an increasing demand for more experiential travel inclusions – a notable change from previous years.

The big focus on requests from our partners is centred around personal wellbeing and immersive culturally rich inclusions. Yoga, wellness, spa inclusions – these experiences giving people time for mindfulness and healing are proving popular in Tulum, Isla Holbox and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, as well as in the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica.

Activities that ignite the senses and broaden cultural understanding are also proving popular inclusion requests for multi-day itineraries. These are hands-on experiences such as food and drinks tours, cooking classes, market visits, homestays, and other introductions to the local way of life. The focus here is on immersion as opposed to mere observation.

While there are still huge volumes of travellers booking traditional flop and drop all-inclusive resorts, we are seeing increasing demand for small, boutique-style properties. These individual accommodation options offer a completely different type of holiday away from mass-market tourism with a more local and less commercial feel. This could be a direct knock-on effect from the events of the last 18 months, where people feel more secure in less crowded places, or they could simply want their own space away from the hustle and bustle to relax and unwind.

Interest in Experiential Travel

There is interesting data on millennials who, according to Bloomberg, now make up the largest generation (31.5% of the world population). The data shows that 86% of millennials want to travel for experience and culture, immersing themselves into their destination, staying clear of tourist traps – 60% rank authentic culture as the essential part of their trip, 78% want their visit to be educational.

Our Discova multi-day itineraries encompassing these experiential and sensory activities have proven extremely popular, with bookings confirmed through 2021, 2022, and 2023 highlighting a growing demand in this area (significatively above pre-Covid numbers). Our In-Destination sales are also changing. Typical flop-and-drop type excursions such as catamarans, parks, ziplines, shopping, and sightseeing are still proving extremely popular. However, we are seeing a growing demand from customers for something different, something new, something unique – often emphasising wellness or experiential activities.

There is also a renewed focus on responsible travel activities, felt industry wide. The events of recent months have highlighted just how fragile our world is, which has ignited awareness of our impact on the planet. Therefore, hotels that stand out for their sustainability are becoming increasingly popular.

Similarly, interest in activities that directly help give back to the local community and increase ecological knowledge is also rising. For example, we have recently successfully launched two educational programmes in Costa Rica . These are designed for high school students to increase their awareness of environmental issues and offer local village interaction.

Personally, I think this is a thrilling time to be in travel. Having worked in the industry for the last 17 years, it always astounds me that so many people travel, sometimes thousands of miles, to another country, without really experiencing the destination. Instead, people tend to choose to spend time on the beach or within the confines of the hotel, except for the odd sightseeing tour or boat trip. Now I feel, more than ever, that this is changing. It is a change happening within the industry overall, and the events of recent years have driven that change.

As the world opens up again, we too, as travel leaders and businesses, need to open up to the new generation of travellers and focus on immersive travel opportunities. For Discova, this style of travel has always been part of what we do; marrying originality with quality and value is second nature to us. So, in order to meet the oncoming demand, we’ve put immersive and experiential travel experiences at the core of our product development strategy. Our local in-destinations teams are hard at work creating itineraries that showcase not just a destination’s major sights but its people, its culture, and its life.

Learn more about Discova

Geoff Ceasar

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Experiential Travel: Surging Popularity of Immersive and Memorable Experiences

By crystal clearwater.

Experiential travel is a rising trend in the tourism industry, reflected by a 20% increase in searches year-over-year. Characterized by a focus on immersive and memorable travel experiences, this trend departs from traditional tourist pursuits to emphasize authentic and unique engagements with local cultures and environments.

Driven by the quest for authentic experiences , experiential travel offers a deeper connection with destinations by encouraging visitors to participate in local customs, traditions, and activities. This fosters an enriching understanding of a region’s cultural, historical, and natural assets, contributing to truly memorable moments.

Unique experiences form the backbone of experiential travel, with travelers increasingly seeking tailor-made itineraries that step away from the beaten path. These unique encounters not only deliver more personal fulfillment but also provide an opportunity for discerning travelers to distinguish their adventures from typical mass tourism offerings.

As a subset of experiential travel, immersive travel takes the quest for authenticity a step further, prioritizing a full immersion in a destination’s culture or a specific place. This can involve living with a local host family, participating in traditional ceremonies, or engaging in local industries to uncover the essence of a destination.

The rise of experiential travel aligns with broader travel trends emerging from evolving generational interests and priorities. In particular, millennials, who now make up the largest generation, have demonstrated a preference for more genuine, transformative experiences over traditional tourism activities.

In response to the growing demand for experiential travel, tourism operators and businesses are adapting to cater to this new generation of discerning travelers. This involves developing innovative, immersive products that deliver high-quality, meaningful engagements with local communities and environments, ensuring that the experiential travel trend continues to thrive and evolve.

Why Experiential Travel is Gaining Traction

Experiential travel has become a significant trend in the travel industry, with searches for this term rising by over 20% year-over-year. This increase in demand can be attributed to various factors, such as the aftermath of the pandemic, the needs of a younger generation of travelers, and a growing awareness surrounding climate change.

The pandemic’s influence: As the world begins to recover from the pandemic, people are eager to travel again, leading to pent-up demand for unique and immersive experiences. Instead of merely visiting popular tourist destinations, travelers now seek to create lasting memories by engaging in deeper, more meaningful interactions with the places they visit.

Millennials driving the trend: Millennials, who make up the largest generation (31.5% of the world population), are known to place a strong emphasis on experiences over material possessions. This preference has played a crucial role in boosting the popularity of experiential travel. Younger generations often prioritize authentic connections to local cultures, environments, and communities during their journeys, resulting in a higher demand for experiential travel offerings.

Climate change awareness: With the growing concern for climate change, more travelers are becoming environmentally conscious and seeking out sustainable travel options. Experiential travel allows individuals to stay closer to nature and reduce their environmental impact by participating in low-impact activities that benefit both the traveler and the destination.

Demand for a better world: In addition to environmental concerns, experiential travelers often seek opportunities to make a positive impact on the locations they visit. This desire for meaningful, responsible travel drives the growth of community-based and eco-friendly experiences, aligning with global movements to create a better world.

As travel returns and the tourism industry evolves, it is evident that experiential travel will continue to gain traction. By fulfilling the desires of travelers seeking immersive and meaningful adventures, it has emerged as an indispensable offering within the realm of tourism.

Impact on the Travel Industry

The increasing popularity of experiential travel is significantly affecting the travel industry. The shift in travelers’ preferences has led to major changes in how tour operators, hotels, and businesses cater to the needs of these tourists.

Tour operators and businesses now need to rethink their approach and focus on providing immersive travel opportunities to meet the demands of this trend. This means, instead of offering traditional itineraries with famous tourist attractions, they should aim to provide unique, authentic, and engaging activities that help travelers connect better with the local culture and community. For example, a regional product manager could focus on designing tailor-made experiences that highlight lesser-known landmarks, traditional cuisine, and immersive local experiences.

One consequence of this change is that the hotel industry is also experiencing a shift in customer preferences. Many travelers are choosing accommodations that offer more localized and personalized experiences over conventional luxury hotels. This has led to the growth of boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and home-sharing options. These accommodations often embrace local styles, culture, and community engagement in their offerings. For the North American market, this implies collaborating with local artisans, integrating indigenous designs, and utilizing locally-sourced materials and products for increased appeal.

The shifting demand toward experiential travel is even causing a transformation in the entire business model of the travel industry. While adapting to these new expectations, it is crucial for industry players to prioritize sustainability and responsible tourism. This includes finding ways to support local economies, preserve cultural heritage, and minimize environmental impacts.

To sum up, the trend of experiential travel has caused a profound impact on the travel industry. Tour operators, hotels, and other businesses have had to adapt and evolve in order to meet the demands of travelers seeking more immersive and memorable experiences. As this trend continues to grow, so will the need for innovative, unique, and sustainable travel offerings.

Social Media’s Role in Experiential Tourism

In recent years, social media has played a significant role in shaping the experiential travel trend. Platforms such as Instagram have provided the perfect showcase for travelers to share their unique and immersive experiences, with visually stunning images and engaging stories. This has inspired others to embark on their own experiential trips, seeking out destinations and experiences that can be shared within their online communities.

Technology has further fueled this trend, with smartphones and affordable data plans providing constant connectivity. The ease with which travelers can share their experiences in real time allows them to engage more actively with their online communities. This heightened connection encourages more people to consider experiential travel and draw inspiration from the journeys of others.

Through social media, the inspiration for experiential travel can be found in the simple acts of sharing and engaging with others. Travelers sharing their stories and tips provide invaluable information for others looking to experience the same. By connecting like-minded individuals, these platforms foster a sense of community among travelers.

Some examples of experiential travel shared on social media include:

Participating in local cultural events and ceremonies
Learning new skills, such as cooking traditional dishes or creating local crafts
Engaging in volunteer work or eco-tourism opportunities
Exploring off-the-beaten-path locations and hidden gems

Social media and technology have significantly impacted the experiential travel trend, inspiring travelers to seek out immersive and memorable experiences. By fostering a sense of community and providing a platform for inspiration, social media has transformed the way travelers approach their trips, paving the way for a more connected and experiential form of tourism.

The Advent of Authentic and Immersive Tours

The concept of authentic and immersive tours is gaining popularity among travelers seeking unique and meaningful experiences. These tours are designed to provide a deeper understanding of the culture, environment, and people of a particular destination. By engaging in genuine, immersive activities and itineraries, travelers can connect with the local community and gain a renewed perspective on the world.

A significant aspect of immersive tours lies in authentic travel . This approach emphasizes connecting with the local landscape and its people, participating in community events, and indulging in traditional cuisine. Activities such as cooking classes with local chefs or attending traditional performances can provide a taste of the authentic local culture.

Adventure tourism is another facet of experiential travel that focuses on the thrill of actively exploring new places. Participating in adventure sports or exploring off-the-beaten-path locations can create lasting memories for travelers. Activities may include hiking, white-water rafting, snorkeling, or wildlife-spotting expeditions, among others.

These tours are often tailor-made, allowing travelers to select a range of experiences based on personal preferences and interests. Some tour operators specialize in multi-day experiential travel that combines various elements of adventure tourism and authentic experiences. Here are some examples of immersive travel experiences:

Cultural immersion : Participate in traditional ceremonies or festivals, learn the local language, or join a guided tour of local artisans’ workshops.
Nature exploration : Engage in guided nature walks, birdwatching excursions, or embark on a scenic hike to discover hidden gems of the region.
Community involvement : Volunteer in local community projects, such as teaching English or participating in environmental conservation initiatives.
Food and culinary experiences : Take part in cooking classes, local market visits, or wine, and food tastings to better understand the regional flavors and ingredients.

Authentic and immersive tours are becoming more popular as travelers seek connections with local cultures and enriching experiences. By offering diverse itineraries and activities, the experiential travel trend continues to emerge as a significant player in the global tourism industry.

Role of Local Culture and Tradition in Experiential Travel

Experiential travel has been gaining popularity as more travelers seek immersive and memorable experiences rather than just visiting tourist destinations. One of the key aspects that sets experiential travel apart from traditional tourism is its strong focus on local culture and tradition .

In experiential travel, culture plays a vital role in providing an authentic experience to travelers. Instead of simply visiting famous landmarks or attractions, tourists actively seek opportunities to engage with the local way of life. This may involve participating in traditional crafts, culinary workshops, or attending cultural events that showcase the rich history of the destination.

Tradition also holds a significant place in experiential travel, as it gives travelers an opportunity to delve deeper into the customs and practices that define a community. By observing rituals, festivals, and ceremonies firsthand, they can gain a better understanding of the values, beliefs, and social norms that make up the fabric of local society.

To fully immerse oneself in a destination’s culture, it’s important for experiential travelers to embrace the local way of life . This may involve learning basic phrases in the local language, adopting appropriate dress codes, or even staying with a host family to experience daily life up close. Such interactions can lead to meaningful connections and ultimately enrich the overall travel experience.

Another essential aspect of experiential travel is sustainability . By engaging with local communities and supporting small businesses, travelers can contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage and promote the welfare of the people that call these places home. This emphasis on responsible travel also helps minimize the negative impact of tourism on the environment and local resources.

The role of local culture and tradition in experiential travel is crucial for creating transformative encounters. Through active engagement with the history, people, and essence of a place, experiential travelers can truly immerse themselves in the richness of a destination, leading to memories that will last a lifetime.

Meeting the Demand for Authentic and Unique Experiences

As experiential travel continues to gain popularity, the industry has seen an increase in demand for more authentic and unique experiences. Travelers are seeking adventures that not only showcase a destination’s major sights, but also its people, culture, and life. In order to cater to this growing market, providers are focused on developing itineraries that offer immersive activities and provide valuable insights into local customs and traditions.

Incorporating local culture into the travel experience plays a crucial role in creating a sense of authenticity. Tapping into a destination’s unique cultural and natural resources helps form the foundation for unforgettable experiences. For instance, travelers may participate in traditional craft workshops, take part in cooking classes with local families, or explore a region’s natural beauty through hiking or wildlife encounters.

Customization is another key aspect of experiential travel. Acknowledging that each traveler has their own preferences, providers are now designing activities that can be tailored to individual interests and needs. This personalized approach not only enhances the overall experience but also contributes to the traveler’s personal wellbeing.

Collaborating with the local community is essential in crafting genuine experiences for tourists. Meaningful interactions between travelers and locals allow for a deeper understanding of a destination’s culture and create lasting memories. Additionally, this collaboration supports the local economy and promotes sustainable tourism practices.

To sum up, the experiential travel trend is driving the industry to meet the demand for authentic and unique experiences. By focusing on incorporating local culture, customization, personal wellbeing, and engaging the local community, providers can offer unforgettable trips that cater to the desires of today’s travelers.

Popular Destinations for Experiential Travel

Experiential travel is a growing trend, with searches for this term up over 20% year-over-year. This trend is driven mainly by the desire for more immersive and memorable travel experiences, rather than solely visiting tourist destinations. Here are a few popular destinations for experiential travel.

Mexico showcases a variety of destinations which cater to experiential travel. The focus in these locations is often on nature, cultural understanding, and local cuisine, with an emphasis on authentic, immersive experiences.

Tulum is known for its pristine beaches, Mayan ruins, and vibrant nightlife. Aside from indulging in the sandy shores, travelers can indulge in food and drinks tours, local market visits, and learn about the rich cultural history of the area.
Isla Holbox is a remote island located in the Yucatan Peninsula, perfect for an off-the-beaten-path experience. While here, visitors can participate in activities such as birdwatching, swimming with whale sharks, and enjoying local wildlife in their natural habitats.
Puerto Vallarta is another popular destination, famous for its beautiful coastline, water sports, and vibrant art scene. The city offers a unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyle, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in both the local culture and contemporary activities.

Dominican Republic is yet another exotic location that offers experiential travel opportunities. In addition to its serene beaches, visitors can explore the lush forests, local markets, and taste distinct Dominican dishes to immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural background.

Costa Rica has carved out a niche in the experiential travel market with its focus on eco-tourism. The country is known for its incredible biodiversity, numerous national parks, and dedication to sustainable tourism. From hiking volcanoes and exploring rainforests to witnessing the unique wildlife and learning about the local culture, Costa Rica has something for every experiential traveler.

These popular destinations offer unforgettable experiential travel experiences. Whether it’s through engaging with nature, exploring new cultures, or savoring local cuisine, travelers can truly immerse themselves in these thoughtfully curated trips to create lasting memories.

The Role of Wellness and Retreats in Experiential Tourism

As experiential travel becomes increasingly popular among today’s tourists, wellness activities and retreats are taking center stage in this trend. Driven by the desire for immersive and memorable experiences, travelers are focusing more on their well-being when planning trips rather than simply ticking off tourist destinations.

Wellness retreats cater to these tourists by offering a variety of amenities to enhance physical and mental health. Most common among these offerings are spa treatments , which often constitute an essential part of the retreat experience. Spa inclusions range from massages and facials to more specialized services like hydrotherapy and aromatherapy, contributing to the overall relaxation and rejuvenation of guests.

Yoga is another key component of wellness retreats, as it promotes mindfulness and self-awareness. Practicing yoga on a daily basis helps guests connect with their inner selves, encouraging personal growth in the process. Moreover, some retreats delve deeper into mindfulness by offering meditation workshops and guided breathing exercises to enhance their guests’ focus and mental clarity.

In response to the growing popularity of experiential travel, retreat operators strive to provide all-inclusive, immersive experiences. Many wellness retreats offer additional activities designed to encourage guests to reconnect with nature and immerse themselves in local culture, such as eco-tours, traditional cooking classes, and meeting with local artisans.

As with any destination, health and safety are essential concerns in experiential tourism. Wellness retreats adhere to high standards of cleanliness while providing visitors with access to healthy, nutritious meals throughout their stay. Furthermore, retreat staff are trained to address guests’ specific needs and preferences, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for relaxation and healing.

Overall, wellness activities and retreats are playing an increasingly important role in experiential travel. These destinations offer tourists an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in new experiences, enhance their mental and physical well-being, and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

The Shift from Traditional to Experiential Accommodations

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in travelers’ preferences from traditional, mass-market tourism to experiential travel. This change in demand is evident in the rise of homestays , Airbnb rentals, and boutique-style properties that focus on providing guests with immersive and authentic experiences.

One significant driving factor behind this shift is the desire of travelers to move beyond typical tourist attractions and instead engage with the local culture and people of the places they visit. Instead of staying in generic hotel rooms, they now prefer accommodations that offer a more intimate and personal touch. Homestays and Airbnb rentals often provide travelers with the opportunity to interact directly with local hosts and residents, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of the culture.

At the same time, boutique-style properties have emerged as popular alternatives to larger, mass-market hotels. These accommodations often showcase the local culture, history, and architecture, along with unique amenities and personalized service. By focusing on these elements, boutique properties create memorable, one-of-a-kind experiences that resonate with experience-seeking travelers.

Moreover, the rise of experiential travel has prompted the travel industry to adapt by offering a wide range of immersive activities and itineraries, further supporting this shift in preference. Here’s a brief overview of the various types of experiential accommodations and their main characteristics:

The shift from traditional to experiential accommodations is rooted in travelers’ increasing desire for authentic, immersive experiences. With the rise of homestays, Airbnb rentals, and boutique-style properties, the landscape of the travel industry is evolving to cater to these new preferences, ultimately offering travelers a more enriched and culturally connected experience.

The experiential travel trend has been gaining considerable attention in recent years, showcasing a shift away from traditional flop and drop vacations. Driven by a desire for more immersive and memorable experiences, travelers seek cultural engagement and adventure rather than simply visiting popular tourist destinations. In a post-pandemic world, the future of experiential travel is influenced by various factors.

Covid Pandemic: The pandemic has impacted travel worldwide, with many reconsidering their travel priorities. Travelers now yearn for unique experiences after being confined for long periods. Additionally, they have become increasingly aware of health and safety measures. Consequently, experiential travel inclusions in a post-pandemic world must adapt to meet these changing expectations and considerations.

Political Instability: Experiential travelers often visit regions that may be prone to political unrest, which can influence the choice of destinations for adventure and cultural experiences. Operators must ensure all aspects of traveler safety while providing immersive culturally rich inclusions.

Adventure Travel: This subcategory of experiential tourism focuses on nature, physical activity, and cultural exploration. As the market continues to grow, adventure travel has become a critical component in experiential travel offerings. Destinations like the Caribbean provide ample opportunities for developing new and unique adventure experiences.

*Experiential Travel Inclusions:*Operators should integrate immersive and culturally-rich activities into their offerings to cater to experiential travelers. This could include activities like:

Local cooking classes
Guided tours with local experts
Community-based projects
Environment conservation efforts

As the world evolves beyond the Covid-19 pandemic, the experiential travel market must adapt to meet the changing preferences of travelers. The future holds great potential for this segment as more individuals prioritize unique and culturally immersive experiences in their travel plans, shaping the face of tourism and pushing the industry to redefine its approach.

How Discova and Other Agencies are Navigating the Change

Experiential travel is a trend that has seen a significant increase in searches, growing by over 20% year-over-year. This reflects a shift in travelers’ preferences towards more immersive and memorable experiences, rather than just visiting traditional tourist destinations. In response to this change, travel agencies like Discova have started to adapt and cater to these new demands.

Discova , a leading destination management company, has been quick to identify and adapt to this growing trend. They are offering various immersive, culturally rich activities, and responsible travel options in their itineraries that focus on personal wellbeing and engaging with authentic local experiences. For instance, Discova provides cycling tours along Vietnam’s National Highway 1, which connects Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south. This 2,300-kilometer route offers cyclists a unique insight into the country and its culture.

One of the key factors driving experiential travel is the millennial generation , accounting for 31.5% of the world population. Agencies like Discova have recognized this market segment’s preferences and have designed experiential travel packages accordingly. This approach has resulted in substantial growth in bookings confirmed and in-destination sales.

Emphasis on sensory activities is another aspect of experiential travel that agencies are focusing on. These activities, which may include local cooking classes, art workshops, or wildlife encounters, play a vital role in offering travelers an immersive experience that appeals to their senses and creates long-lasting memories.

Responsible travel activities have also become increasingly important, as travelers are more conscious about their impact on the environment and local communities. Discova and other agencies are incorporating sustainable practices in their offerings, such as eco-friendly accommodations, wildlife conservation efforts, and supporting local businesses.

Simon Lindsay , Discova’s Regional Director in the Americas, has emphasized the growing demand for experiential travel inclusions in the Caribbean and the Americas. He notes a noticeable shift from previous years, driven by a desire for meaningful connections and genuine interactions with local communities. As a result, travel agencies are working tirelessly to ensure their clients get the most authentic experiences possible.

Travel agencies like Discova are diligently navigating the change in traveler preferences by offering a wider range of experiential travel activities tailored to individual interests. By doing so, they continue to excel in meeting the evolving needs of travelers all around the globe.

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the experiential travel-list [part I]: around the world

12 best travel experiences + photos

We have a defining question for you. Would you rather travel to come home with stories or a backpack full of snow globes and keychains?

We figured you’d say that.

What is experiential travel? Experiential travel is about traveling more immersively. The idea is to go slower and more spontaneously, in pursuit of local experience. Perhaps you’re traveling for 3 days or 8 years, but by expanding your scope from a checklist of “to dos”, you open yourself up to interactions and unique experiences that can’t be bought or replicated.

As “experiential” is a mightily vague and wholly arbitrary adjective, we usually take it to mean opting for the long way when there is a shorter way available. This is trekking rather than riding the tram, traveling by train rather than by plane, learning how to cook local fare rather than sitting down at overpriced restaurants, and interacting rather than simply passing through. It’s hanging out too late at salsa bars, taking Portuguese classes, sampling regrettable Thai sausages at a night markets, and being an extra in a Bollywood film.

While you can often opt into these travel experiences, many of the best moments of experiential travel are stumbled upon — it’s the serendipity of them that makes the experience special. You start by giving yourself the time and flexibility to let things happen, and then are receptive when opportunities come your way. Show up for a festival, a class, a trek, or another kind of experience, and see what stories unfold!

And with that, ladies and gentlemen, we introduce you to our list of the 12 best travel experiences . Let’s get experiential!

12 best travel experiences

1. event travel.

Events can transform entire cities — whether you’re visiting for the Olympics, a bluegrass festival, or a comic convention, traveling during a major event offers a unique opportunity to get involved in something fleeting. Not only will you have a chance to be part of the event itself, but you’ll get to experience the city putting it’s loveliest foot forward. Take advantage of the opportunity to work, volunteer, spectate, and experience the city in a way that many never will.

Volunteering at the Olympics (Next up: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
Listening Up at the Outside Lands Music Festival (San Francisco, California, USA)
Screaming GOOOOOOOL at the World Cup (Next up: Russia)

2. Language Classes:

With our high school French behind us, we’re sure learning a language in-country is the best (and perhaps only) way to learn. Classes serve as a framework — when you get out to bargain or befriend, you’ve got a little something to work with. Come to class with your questions and your confusions, pick up a few new phrases, and practice them as you go about your day.

Estudiando for Spanish Classes (Mexico City, Mexico)
Brushing Up with Portuguese Classes (Lisbon, Portugal)
Learning through Arabic Classes (Cairo, Egypt)

3. Cycling:

While we always seem to overestimate our cycling stamina, we do recommend at least a half-day bike ride whenever you’re in a new place. Whether you’re kicking around a city, getting outside on a day trip, or covering great distances on the seat of your bike, your method of transport can have more affect on your travel experience than you may think. You’ll take in more scenery, run out of breath, get lost, and appreciate your end point far more than if you had just hopped off a bus.

Rice Terrace Gazing in Vietnam (Hanoi, Vietnam)
Cycling the Camino de Santiago (Leon, Spain)
Knocking Down the Death Road (La Paz, Bolivia)

4. Teaching or Working Abroad :

A guide to teaching English Abroad - girls studying

If there’s one way to ensure you really experience another culture, it’s by working abroad. You’ll be immersed in local life in a way that you hardly can if you’re just passing through. Unlike backpacking around a country, you’ll do mundane things like set 7am alarms, get your haircut, buy groceries, and perhaps even sign a lease. With all that routine, you have the foundation to discover favorite bars, make new friends, and get into the culture in a much deeper way.

Teaching English in Asia (Seoul, South Korea)
Tour Guiding around Europe (Berlin, Germany)
Staff at a South American Hostel (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

5. Local Classes:

We’re talking yoga, diving, cooking, drumming, painting, sitar, anime, you name it! When you learn more about an art in the place where it began, you’ll be better able to connect to the local culture and why the activity itself exists. Rather than leaving with a shallow understanding of ingredients in the soup, or what characterizes West African dance, you’ll learn the processes. Whether you’re specializing for professional development, or just pursuing an interest, taking local classes is a great way to give yourself a reason to stay in a place just a little bit longer.

Getting into yoga Classes (Dharamsala, India)
Attempting Salsa Lessons (Medellín, Colombia)
West African Drumming (Accra, Ghana)

6. Trekking:

For some people trekking is an easy sell. For others, a trekking trip is less “vacation” and more “destination torture”. If you’re in the second camp, hear us out. Sore-footed, nearly exhausted, and miles outside of the nearest city, you’ll look at the view and really appreciate where you are. Pass through remote villages, trudge through the mud, and navigate through tangled flora to experience some of the world’s best nature. We swear you won’t regret it.

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit (Pokhara, Nepal)
Conquering the W-Trek (Torres del Paine, Chile)
Summiting Kilimanjaro (Marangu, Tanzania)
Trekking to Inle Lake (Kalaw, Burma)

7. Wildlife Safari:

Wildlife experiences are some of the most memorable. In an instant, your answer to questions like “have you ever seen a lion in the wild?” change from “definitively no” to “ohhh yeah”. When you go with responsible company and naturalist guide, you’ll have an opportunity to see animals you’ve only ever seen in zoos. Go by jeep, on foot, or by canoe and explore some of natures most majestic and endangered creatures — they really may not be around forever!

Lion Spotting Serengeti National Park (Seronera, Tanzania)
Checking out the [Blue-Footed] Boobies (Galapagos or Isla de la Plata, Ecuador)
Rhinos, Tigers, & Bear Viewing at Chitwan National Park (Chitwan, Nepal)

8. Camping:

While the stars above may stay the same, the options on just where to pop up your tent are nearly endless. Camp out in deserts, national parks, in the African bush, out of a van, in a Yert, in a luxury tent — you can camp however you will, as long as you promise to camp somewhere. While no one can deny the comforts of a hot shower and a sand-free bed, there’s something worthwhile about getting out into the wild for a few days to take in the landscapes and experience everything at a slower pace.

Stargazing at Joshua Tree National Park (Joshua Tree National Park, California, USA)
Desert Camping in Wadi Rum (Wadi Rum, Jordan)
Bush Camping in Kruger National Park (Komatipoort, South Africa)

9. Farm Stay:

Learn local industries like wine-making and coffee-growing, or simply help out with some good old fashioned poop-scooping in a lesser traveled town or village. Organizations like WWOOF and HelpX can help you scout some pretty amazing farm stay opportunities — read traveler reviews, and communicate with your host before picking your place! You’ll get an immersive opportunity to learn the language, get your hands dirty, and refine your farming skill set all the while exploring a new culture — the local produce and free accommodation doesn’t hurt either.

Picking Beans at a Coffee Farm (Salento, Colombia)
Petting the Ducks (Nuwakot, Nepal)
Harvesting Olives (Ouarzazate, Morocco)

10. Home Stay:

Dancing with a family at a Jordanian graduation party

Missing mom? There’s probably a Jordanian mom out there that would love to have you. Experience the local culture at an accelerated rate with a home stay! If you don’t have much time at all, buddy up with hostel or hotel staff to see if you can’t get them to show you around. If you’d like to explore a new city with a guide who really knows what’s happening, Couchsurfing or staying with an Airbnb host is a great way to go. Finally, if you have the chance for longer term opportunities, you also might want to investigate opportunities at AuPairWorld or study abroad programs that will place you with a local family.

Au Pairing in Europe (Madrid, Spain)
Sleeping at an Airbnb (Prague, Czech Republic)
Studying Abroad in South America (Valparaiso, Chile)

11. Festival Travel:

We like festival travel because you get to travel with the certainty that the whole city will come outside, celebrate, and get silly with you. Squirt guns, mud fights, and horse races are just a few of our favorites, and in our book. The more ridiculous the festival, the better. Much like event travel, festival travel is a great way to experience a city at it’s best (and worst). While you’ll have to deal with the crowds, you’ll also get more exposure to the culture and have lots of opportunities to make friends (or squirt someone in the face.)

Getting Wet at Songkran (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
Joining the Sambadrome at Carnaval (Rio de Janiero, Brazil)
Running with the bulls at Fiesta de San Fermín (Pamplona, Spain)

12. Overland Travel :

We’re not going to end this list by saying that the journey is more important than the destination but… journeys are just pretty good. From Trans-Siberian train excursions, to driving the length of South America by camper van, any method of transport can totally count as a type of travel experience. Whether you finishing your trip recalling shared chapatis in an Indian train or the time your Colombian bus got drug searched and your luggage stolen, all the miles add up to something interesting. Make some of your travels about the journey itself — if you’ve got the time and you’re looking for something interesting to tell about, this type of trip will really increase your odds.

Venturing the Trans-Siberian Railroad (Beijing, China)
Taking the Train in India (New Delhi, India)
Eurail Hopping through Europe (Anywhere in Europe!)
Car Camping in Oceania (Christchurch, New Zealand)

like it? pin it!

Go beyond sightseeing. Trek, dance, camp, teach, and enjoy the best in travel experience.

We’ve got more experiential travel-lists to come! Where did you have your favorite travel experience? We’d love to hear from you!

Taylor record.

I'm Taylor and this is Travel Outlandish. I’m an independent traveler kind of like you. I believe we deserve better than crowds of people and manufactured experiences when we explore. Whether you're going into the wild on a backpacking trip or planning a weekend in a foreign city, you'll find everything you need to plan something awesome on Travel Outlandish. Thanks for stopping by!

Festival travel is by far my favourite. Also up there are spiritual travel and homestays. I’ve recently written a list of my most memorable travel experiences which made me realise the festivals and cultural events are what’s closest to my heart!

Festival travel is our favorite too, so long as you’re able to make all the pieces line up! Cheers to a fellow experiential travel lover!

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Experiential Travel is a Growing Trend Among Groups

Activities , Magazine Features

Artillery at American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

Consumers are looking to immerse themselves in their journeys more than ever, and experiential travel is just the way to do it

Back in the halcyon days of 2014, Peak DMC (a destination management company) and Skift (a travel industry news site) released a report focusing on the growing popularity of experiential travel.

The report stated: “Intense global demand for travel experiences that resonate on a deeper emotional level is driving travel brands to develop a product that is more adventurous, more personalized and more attuned to local culture, inspiring consumers toward a path of self-discovery.”

Eight years later, and following a two-year span in which the tourism spigot was essentially shut off, that feeling among consumers has considerably heightened.

Experiential travel , a form of tourism where travelers immerse themselves into a destination by engaging with its history, culture, food and environment, is most certainly having a moment.

The World Has Changed and So Has Travel

With climate change, political instability and illnesses all wreaking havoc on the planet, travelers’ tastes have changed along with the world. When the pandemic disrupted lives, it altered the travel outlook for many. Rather than lounging on a beach or relaxing in a luxurious hotel, travelers are now choosing experiences over amenities.

“Travel is no longer just about ‘going somewhere,’” said Christie Hudson, a senior public relations manager for Expedia. Hands-on experiences such as food and drink tours, cooking classes and even hiking outings in far-flung locales like Patagonia (not the clothing store) are popular choices.

“We continue to see a significant increase in groups with a strong interest in experiential travel,” said Jeff Roy, executive vice president of revenue management for Collette Tours. “In particular, our explorations product line offers immersive experiences and the opportunities for guests to really get to know the local culture while in the destination. We expect this to continue as groups seek out travel experiences in the future.”

In Bordeaux, France, groups can visit famous wineries and get their hands dirty while crushing grapes and making wine. Photo courtesy of Maja Petric

Other beloved endeavors include:

In Jackson Hole , Wyoming , visitors can relive days gone by with a chuckwagon dinner in which they ride in a covered wagon
In Homosassa , Florida , guests can brandish a snorkel and swim with manatees, the gentle cows of the sea
At the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown in Virginia , visitors can be a part of the firing of a cannon
In Sydney , Australia , the Sydney BridgeClimb tour takes groups up inclines and across catwalks where they can savor 360-degree views of the picturesque city
In Bordeaux , France , groups can visit famous wineries and get their hands dirty while crushing grapes and making wine

A Growing Market

According to a report on researchandmarkets.com, the global market for tours and activities reservations is expected to reach $266.7 trillion by 2027. This will make the experiential/adventure travel market one of the fastest-growing tourism segments.

Skift echoed those projections in a report that said “67 percent of opulent or well-to-do travelers want to spend their money on activities than a nicer hotel. Travelers are going beyond the concept of relaxation, leisure and traditional sightseeing.”

In its most recent Experiential Travel Trends research, Tripadvisor said the hottest souvenir to bring back from a trip is a new skill. This is due to the fact that travelers are learning different skills during trips abroad, enriching their lives beyond the excursion. Tripadvisor found that among American travelers, experiences like salsa dancing classes and surf lessons were hugely popular.

Cat Jones, the founder of Byway, who specializes in slow travel journeys across the United Kingdom and Europe, was quoted as saying “With the return of travel after years of restrictions, holidaymakers want to make the most of every second they’re away.” This, coupled with the fact that the pandemic has made 61 percent of travelers want to travel more sustainably, signals a shift in the ways people will travel in the future.

“We’ve seen a 600 percent increase in the number of people taking our slow travel holidays since April,” Jones added. “Our customers are citing the desire for travel experiences that allow them to savor each moment, pausing in a variety of places to connect with local cultures and ecosystems for high quality, authentic and sustainable experiences.”

In Homosassa, Florida, guests can brandish a snorkel and swim with manatees, the gentle cows of the sea.

Young Trippers Driving Experiential Travel

A sizable reason behind the surge in experiential travel is the preferences of millennials (defined as Americans born between 1980-1996) and Generation Z (those born from 1997 and after). According to Bloomberg, 86 percent of millennials want to travel for experience and culture, immersing themselves in their destination, with 60 percent ranking authentic culture as essential. Along those lines, Eventbrite’s nationwide research of millennials showed 69 percent want to live one-of-a-kind experiences and get in touch with the culture of the places they visit.

In 2019, Airbnb created Airbnb Adventures, where travelers were encouraged to take immersive adventures around the world. The company announced guest bookings by Generation Z for “Experiences” in Thailand increased by 228 percent.

Why is the younger generation so interested in experiential travel? Experts say smartphones (which, critically, take and send photos to social media platforms) inspire travelers to seek local activities, dishes and destinations.

A survey conducted by easyJet, a Swiss low-cost airline, discovered 55 percent of travelers scheduled trips inspired by images they saw on their Instagram feeds. A survey taken by Schofields, a United Kingdom-based holiday rental home insurance provider, showed 40 percent of millennials consider the “Instagrammability” of a destination to be their most important priority in a destination.

Looking Ahead

In a kaleidescopic world, operators are challenged to cater to the desires of those seeking more immersive tours. Certainly, traditional tours will continue to thrive and all-inclusive vacations will remain profitable. However, numerous experts are calling experiential travel the future of tourism. With younger travelers craving new experiences and seeking fresh adventures, who can argue?

Find more experiential adventures when you subscribe to the current issue of Leisure Group Travel today.

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Outlook for 2024: the rise and rise of experiential travel

You may read an extended version of this article at HotelExecutive .

Predictions paint a rosy picture for travel in 2024. UNWTO expects international arrivals to finally return to pre-pandemic levels, and even exceed 2019 figures by 2%. Airline connectivity may further rise this year from 89.5% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, IATA said.

Growth will hinge in large part on the pace of recovery in Asia, and there are uncertainties stemming from economic concerns and geopolitical risks mostly related to the Hamas-Israel conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war. But the general outlook is fairly optimistic.

Whether or not these predictions will come true, experiential travel – or immersing in experiences that create unforgettable memories through facilitated, yet authentic programmes or events – is expected to remain a market driver and gain even more in popularity.

Travellers value culture more than attractions

Leisure travellers are searching for cultural experiences more than ever in 2024, according to a recent survey by Skyscanner. About 54% of its respondents consider culture an important factor when picking a destination, which compares with 49% for attractions.

Another telling bit of data is that travellers from the US – an important market of the experience economy, that is, selling memorable experiences rather than products – booked 4.7 tours while on a trip in 2023, up from 2.7 in 2019, in-destination experiences firm Arival said.

Going beyond the conventional is a hot trend

Skyscanner’s survey has also found that 18% of US and 8% of UK travellers would fly long haul to see their favorite artist perform in 2024, and 47% and 11% have booked a destination purely based on a specific restaurant they want to visit.

Customers increasingly go beyond the usual museum visits, concerts, tours or excursions. Options popping up in top lists of hot travel experiences for 2024 include dark sky tours in Norway, yurting in Mongolia, expedition cruises to Antarctica or the Galapagos Islands, attending a kite festival in India, or taking part in slow safaris in Africa.

Experience-led tourism is becoming the norm

Slow travel in general, with visitors immersing in local culture for a longer period, is expected to remain popular this year, just as purpose-driven adventures, which focus on meaningful goals, such as wildlife conservation, environmental protection or preserving traditions.

Experience tourism is becoming the norm as travellers want to connect with a place emotionally, booking tech provider Regiondo has pointed out. Software firm Flyware said 89% of tourism service providers have seen higher demand for experiential travel, which typically offers more personalized and unique leisure experiences compared to conventional vacations.

Wellness still has a great growth potential

Wellness, a key part of experiential travel, saw dynamic growth in recent years as Covid-19 boosted interest in personal wellbeing. The value of the wellness tourism market will climb to $1,030 billion in 2024 from an estimated $868 billion last year, and record a compound annual growth rate of 16.6% in 2022-2027, the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) predicted.

Wellness real estate, another segment of the wider wellness economy, will grow even faster, at 17.4% annually in 2022-2027, GWI said. But real estate investors and developers need to take a savvy and prudent approach to wellness projects. This is reflected in the latest edition of RLA Global’s Wellness Real Estate Report H1 2023 , which found that hotels with minor wellness offerings outperformed hotels with major wellness in revenue and profit growth in the first half of 2023.

Variability and elections impact hotels outlook

There is no doubt that increasing demand for experience tourism can affect hotel performances in 2024. Hotel executives drew slightly diverging but for the most part fairly optimistic predictions for the hotel sector in a panel discussion at the recent AOHIS 2024 investors’ summit in Madrid , which was moderated by RLA Global Group CEO Roger Allen.

Alexander Schneider, chief operating officer at Sani Ikos Group , said he is expecting a 15% growth for this year, while Dilip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels , foresees a record growth. But there is a significant variability in the predictions, with differences between expected growth rates depending on the type of property, regional variations in tourism and the overall size and growth potential of managed assets.

Also affecting the outlook for the hotel industry is that 2024 will be a “super election year”, with more than 60 countries holding national elections. The outcome of these elections can create a positive impact on markets, leading the way for corrections in 2025, Roger Allen said.

Can all hotels gain from the experiential shift?

Luxury hotels may be best positioned to benefit from the growth in experiential travel. This is supported by Arival’s research, which shows that affluent US travellers made up just 22% of all travellers in the country, but accounted for 46% of the total amount spent on experiences last year. They are willing to pay more for experiences, with about 58% booking private tours when traveling.

But hotels in other categories can also benefit from the rise of experience-led tourism. A YouGov survey found in 2023 that US travellers seeking to experience different cultures and learn about history tend to stay in mid-market hotels (62%), rather than luxury properties (42%). This split is more equally balanced for travellers from the UAE though, at 48% and 49%, respectively.

Experiences support city and boutique hotels

Experiences also play an increasing role in urban leisure travel, and are getting crucially woven into city hotel settings, panelists heard at AOHIS 2024. Covid-19 and its aftermath has driven growth in many resort markets, but the past year or so saw outstanding city hotel performances, especially in some European markets popular with US visitors, such as Paris, Rome and Dublin.

Another interesting takeaway from the AOHIS 2024 panel was that independent boutique hotels are not simply competing with but are also often excelling big international hotel brands. Boutique hotels traditionally have a good track record in offering unique accommodation that reflects the local culture and environment, something experience-led travellers strongly appreciate.

More hotel partnerships on the horizon in 2024

In-destination experiences is a popular trip element travellers splurge on when making trade-offs for a trip upgrade or downgrade, Deloitte said in its 2024 travel outlook. Hotel class, on the other hand, is something they are ready to cut back on when budgets are tight.

This finding offers implications for hotels assessing the need to update their experiences strategy. Deloitte expects more hotels to form partnerships with event venues, sport teams, or food and beverage brands in 2024 to give their guests special access to experiences.

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Five Trends That Will Shape Experiential Travel in 2019

Expedia Group Media Solutions + Skift

November 6th, 2018 at 10:00 AM EST

It might not be surprising to hear that rich experiences will continue to be high on the lists of travelers in 2019. But there are a few trends that will shape the types of experiences they’ll be looking for.

Expedia Group Media Solutions

This sponsored content was created in collaboration with a Skift partner.

Experiential travel isn’t particularly new. There’s been growing demand around culinary travel, cultural exploration, and activity-based travel experiences for a number of years now. But the demand for experiential travel shows no signs of slowing down. Adventurers will continue to hunt for truly local and authentic experiences, whether that’s the best food truck in Portland, the hidden beaches of Madagascar, or textile weaving classes in Peru –– especially as these types of experiences grow more accessible thanks to our smartphones and the ever-increasing number of digital and mobile platforms that make traveling easier.

Here, we look at a few examples of what will drive experiential travel in 2019.

Culinary travel will continue to rise, largely thanks to Instagram: Food is an inherently social and emotional experience, making it an important pillar in experience-based travel. We expect to see more travelers plan their trips around food in 2019, whether that’s food-based activities such as stomping wine grapes in Italy, seeking out the best dim sum in Hong Kong, or exploring the night markets of Singapore.

Social media –– particularly Instagram –– has helped food and drink-based experiences and destinations gain exposure. In 2019, we predict that you will be just as likely to see an Instagram post of a handmade Italian pasta dish as you are an Italian statue. It’s important for destinations to understand the role of food and social media in travel –– and their inherent opportunities.

“Insiders” will help travelers live like locals: Getting the authentic version of a place will be of growing importance to travelers in 2019. Travelers are eager for cultural experiences that are more interactive than gazing through the window of a tour bus. They want to know where the hidden gems are, and they want to connect with the local culture and people. Locals are offering insider tours, and global companies are partnering with local players to up their authenticity (and to tap into the tour guide market valued at $7 billion, according to a November 2017 IBISWorld report). Startups , new partnerships , and seasoned players will jockey for a piece of the pie in 2019.

Websites featuring locals who provide off-the-beaten-path recommendations and share personal stories continue to be a tactic that many tourist boards and destination marketing organizations are leveraging –– and these sites will continue to be a popular way to engage and help travelers plan their stays.

Pop culture will help boost destinations: TV and movies have always drawn travelers to certain destinations. Recently, Girls Trip spurred a new wave of women’s group travel to New Orleans , Crazy Rich Asians majorly boosted travel searches to Singapore , and Game of Thrones has fueled tourism in Croatia, Northern Ireland, and Iceland .

Meanwhile, an increasing number of travel and culinary docuseries are available on streaming platforms such as Netflix, including Somebody Feed Phil, Chef’s Table, and Ugly Delicious, inspiring consumers to explore culinary experiences near and far. We expect to see even more pop culture-inspired travel in 2019.

Business and leisure travel will blend even further: Gen Z has officially entered the workforce, and like the millennials that came before them, they’re likely to want to blend their business trips with their leisure travel. In 2017, more than 60 percent of business trips were extended to include leisure time, both in the U.S. and globally, according to a report from Expedia . That was a nearly 40 percent increase since 2016.

Culinary experiences have also become important parts of such trips. A recent study from Expedia Group Media Solutions found that 56 percent of travelers who combined their business and leisure travel said they are more likely to consider extending a work trip to include leisure time if the destination has great food or restaurants.

All told, more than 70 percent of travelers who combine business and leisure travel said there are destinations they have visited or will visit in the future for business that they would like to extend for leisure travel. This pattern will continue to represent major dollars and growth in the travel space.

Technology will continue to open new doors to travelers: Smartphones have made it easier than ever for travelers to visit unexplored corners of the world, make last minute itinerary changes, and book unique experiences. Travelers can now translate foreign languages and currencies, navigate unknown neighborhoods, and read reviews of restaurants, activities, and accommodations through mobile apps.

Travelers are considering destinations that otherwise might have gone unconsidered thanks to augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. With a try-before-you-buy approach, virtual tours using these technologies can make far-flung or negatively perceived destinations less intimidating. They can also enhance the travel experience by supplementing a walk with tidbits from local experts or enhancing a museum experience . These technologies will undoubtedly continue to impact the travel world in 2019.

As you continue to plan your business and marketing strategies for the year ahead –– or even think about your own travel plans –– taking these experiential travel trends into consideration will help ensure you hit the mark in 2019.

Check out more global travel trends in Expedia Group Media Solution’s updated Multinational Study:

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This content was created by Expedia Group Media Solutions and published by Skift’s branded content studio, SkiftX .

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Tags: digital , expedia , generation z , instagram

Hola! Bonjour! Konnichiwa! We’re Wanderlust Travel Co.,The concierge travel agency for travelers ready to vacation like they give a damn. Meaning: We make every moment count on your epic escape.

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Craving a barefoot big day—where your toes sink into powder-soft sand as you walk down your sun-kissed isle against a backdrop of turquoise blue waters, and you shake and shimmy the night away with your best friends and family, fanned by balmy island breezes? If you’re saying “yes, please!”—well, then, welcome! The Wanderlust planning experts are here to make your big day everything you’ve ever dreamed off—and easy-peasy to plan, to boot.

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Forget those mega cruisers that pack you in like sardines and entertain you with wet t-shirt contests (um, no thank you ). River cruises are elegant, intimate, and truly inspiring. While every cruise line has its own vibe, you can expect upscale design details on board, gourmet dining with ingredients often sourced from the destinations you visit, and a high staff-to-guest ratio that results in stellar service.

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Top 12 Travel Experts Inspiring Others To Embark On Epic Journeys

T ravel is the ultimate high, right? It’s an espresso shot injected into your soul. One minute you are knee-deep in a rut of routine, and the next, you’re soaring through foreign skies, the marks on your passport racking up as though they are badges of honor.

But, let’s face it, we all need a little nudge sometimes—a catalyst—to fan the flames and fuel our wanderlust. And that’s where these travel geniuses come in—the ones who will make you want to ditch the drab, pack your bags, and set off on a trip of a lifetime. They’re the masters of making the impossible possible and turning wanderlust into a way of life.

Starting from globe-trotting bloggers to expert travel planners, we’ve lined up the top 12 travel experts who will fan your travel bug, kick you out of your comfort zone, and make you want to live life to the fullest. Not only are they just documenting their travels, but they are also sketching out the entire itineraries for you to enjoy each and every moment of your travel.

So, sit tight, buckle your seatbelts, folks, and get ready to set out on the adventure of your life!

Christina Vieira

Have you been dreaming of a family vacation that not only brings you closer together as a family, but also sparks a love of learning in your kids? If so, you need to meet Christina Vieira , the Travel Expert, Founder & CEO of Showcase the World Travel , a visionary in redefining family travel experiences. As a mom herself, Christina understands the importance of stress-free, personalized family vacations that go beyond the typical theme park adventures.

Because of her dedication and distinct approach, Christina’s travel agency has won several Travel Weekly Magellan Awards. She has also been named a Future Leader in the Travel Industry.

Christina’s love of travel was inspired by her first trip to EPCOT as a child, where diverse cultures and a global community fascinated her. This experience ignited her wanderlust, inspired her to dedicate her professional career to the travel industry, and inspired the mission of Showcase the World Travel to encourage families to embark on vacations that entertain, educate, and enrich.

Venturing beyond theme parks, Christina aims to help families discover the vast diversity of our world. From wildlife safaris teaching conservation to historical tours bringing textbooks to life, each vacation is an opportunity for families to grow closer while learning.

If you want to have a stress-free, enriching experience for the whole family, visit Christina’s website . There you can find and download many free guides to help you get started on planning, booking, and enjoying a stress-free vacation.

Traveling can be a life-changing experience for many. But, a poorly planned and executed tour can create an equally distasteful experience. That said, travel enthusiasts have nothing to worry about because Amy Shamus is on a mission to plan and execute every trip down to perfection. Through her boutique travel business, StudioSCM , she is creating unforgettable luxury travel experiences.

Trained by the best in the industry, Amy infuses standard travel planning with a personal touch and distinctive taste. Due to her efficiency, promptness, and unparalleled network of relationships with luxury hotels worldwide, clients can enjoy hassle free trips.

In her early years as a travel advisor, Amy earned the title of a top producer by the esteemed affiliate agency, FORA . Remarkably, she finds herself in the upper echelon of travel advisors, belonging to the top 2% within FORA and holding a coveted spot in the exclusive FORA X group for top sales achievers.

Amy views StudioSCM as a source of pride and purpose. For her, it’s about crafting experiences that linger in the hearts of her clients for a lifetime. Her business mantra, “ creating core memories one trip at a time ,” encapsulates her unwavering commitment to making each journey a unique and cherished memory.

Kimberly McCardell

Travel advisor and owner of an esteemed luxury travel agency, Kimberly McCardell , leads Windward and Crown with a vision to redefine personalized travel experiences. As a Virtuoso-certified travel advisor, this globetrotting guru brings a wealth of expertise to the table.

McCardell started as a middle school world cultures teacher, fostering a passion for global exploration. Transitioning to travel planning, she merges teaching and learning to craft outstanding itineraries. Her notable achievements include expanding Windward and Crown, and joining Departure Lounge – a top global travel company that connects luxury advisors with top global partners. Her meticulous planning process covers everything from detailed itineraries, unique accommodations and experiences, and 24/7 flight monitoring to VIP perks. Her business thrives on exclusive industry partnerships, granting clients priority access to upgrades, special amenities, and added hotel perks worldwide

The commitment to concierge-level, custom-curated travel design is what sets Kim apart in the industry. She values a philanthropic approach to business- hosting annual events to support local organizations and volunteering in destinations she visits. If clients desire to engage in charitable activities in their own travels, the Windward and Crown team will match them with trustworthy partnesr in their specific destination, an example of her distinctive trip planning process.

As Windward and Crown continues to expand its team and services, Kim’s ambition is clear – to make each custom-designed trip one that not only exceeds her clients expectations but also is an experience that they will remember for a lifetime. With a passion for collaborative trip design, exclusive industry partnerships, and dedication to her clients, Kimberly McCardell stands as a prominent expert in luxury travel.

Patro Marco

Patro Marco is a Private Travel Designer with over 16 years of experience in the travel industry. As a founder of Spain Luxury Incoming and Tulum Travel Group , she designs personalized and luxury private trips in and outside Spain, respectively.

Having traveled to 84 countries, Patro possesses a unique insight into designing itineraries worldwide, including Japan, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Greece, Portugal, and Italy. Through Runatours , she provides exclusive luxury lifestyle, and cultural experiences, with unique destination plans curated to satisfy the most demanding travelers.

The Odyssey of Ulysses to discover Greece, maybe The wines & Art of artists like Tapies, Miro or Velazquez to discover the Spanish towns, or just The Michelin stars Restaurants to taste Japan. Are some examples…of her creative travel designs

She has been recognized by business associations and at fairs such as the Conde Nast Traveller. Before establishing her own company, Patro opened one of the first Boutique Agencies and adopted the figure of Private Travel Advisor for those who needed her services beyond a traditional agency. After over a decade in the industry, she has established her work under the principles of authenticity, exclusivity, and individuality. Her capable team offers services like building client relationships and creating high-end trips for individuals, couples, and corporations.

Passionate hostess of her country, she is delighted to show each of her travelers Spain with her warm gaze, another look to discover her country as you had never imagined.

Through the posts shared on her Instagram , she shows you a small part of her clients and trips in destination, and many other travelers who prefer to “fly under the radar” with their confidentiality and private designs

Patro believes in satisfying all her clients with the highest quality business trips, honeymoons, holiday trips, and events. Now, she plans to expand her services to corporate events and weddings.

Anthea Vishegonov

Discover the unparalleled magic of the Balkan Peninsula with Balkan Splendors , a premier travel agency dedicated to crafting unforgettable journeys through Europe’s hidden gem.

Led by co-founders Anthea Vishegonov and George Vishegonov, Balkan Splendors stands out as a beacon of authenticity and adventure in the travel industry.

Our meticulously planned small-group guided tours and children’s summer camps in Bulgaria, the oldest European country, promise immersive experiences that cater to every passion and interest.

Whether you’re drawn to culture, gastronomy, extreme sports, or leisure activities, the Balkans offer something for everyone. From picturesque mountainscapes to sandy beaches and vibrant cities, our tours showcase the diverse beauty of the region while providing ample free time to truly immerse yourselves in the authentic charm of the Balkans .

With our commitment to handling all logistics and providing exclusive hidden gems known only to locals, every journey with Balkan Splendors is an invitation to embrace the extraordinary.

Our Euro-Fit Summer Camp stands out by blending traditional summer camp fun with cultural and language immersion, offering children the chance to forge international friendships and foster a passion for new experiences.

Balkan Splendors is driven by a desire to unite a community of travel enthusiasts, foster an environment for building lasting connections, and create memories that last a lifetime. Our experiences are perfect for families, singles, and couples who want to dive into an oasis of relaxation and excitement.

Join us on a journey to rejuvenation amidst the splendor of the Balkans and let Balkan Splendors make your travel dreams come true.

Siobhan Byrne

In an era where scrolling through Instagram travel feeds can inspire a sense of déjà vu, Siobhan Byrne of Adams & Butler cuts through the clutter with a proposition that seems almost revolutionary: luxury travel that’s not just about the thread count in your linen but about threading your way into the fabric of local communities.

At first glance, Adams & Butler might seem like another high-end travel design company, but Byrne steers this ship with a compass calibrated to sustainability and authentic experiences, a course not commonly charted in the luxury travel industry.

Byrne’s accolades, including being named a Conde Nast Travel Specialist and a Travel + Leisure A-List Travel Advisor for 2024, aren’t mere decorations; they’re markers of her pioneering spirit in a saturated market. These awards, spanning Ireland, Scotland, and Africa, showcase her ability to tailor deeply personal travel experiences across diverse landscapes and cultures, including privileged access to the Aristocracy and their castles and country estates in Ireland and the UK.

Behind the serene façade of Adams & Butler’s bespoke itineraries lies Byrne’s belief in the transformative power of travel. Whether it’s sipping whiskey with the Jameson sisters in Ireland or dancing with the Datoga tribe in Tanzania, Byrne ensures that luxury travel isn’t an isolating bubble but a bridge to understanding and appreciating the world’s diverse cultures.

The recent introduction of a photographic safari for non-photographers, in collaboration with Marc Richardson, showcases Byrne’s innovation. Through personalized tuition, clients capture Africa’s essence, transforming their journey into lasting memories.

Additionally, Adams & Butler is gearing up for the Ultimate Journey for Ireland from April 11th to 15th, a unique opportunity to explore Ireland’s hidden heartlands, Wild Atlantic Way and Connemara with private guides, visits and performances.

Taking a step that’s bold yet rare, she gives every customer her direct line, proving her devotion to impeccable service and hassle-free adventures. Yet, calls are few, a silent tribute to the trust and empowerment she places in her on-the-ground partners.

As Siobhan Byrne and Adams & Butler march into the future, their mission remains clear: to redefine luxury travel as a journey that’s as enriching to the soul as it is to the eye.

Anne Maxwell Liles

Exotic places, bespoke itineraries, and a knack for the nuanced, Anne Maxwell Liles of Anne Liles Travel crafts travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary. As a luxury Travel Advisor, Anne infuses each journey with a curated itinerary that involves a touch of opulence and a lot of expertise.

A seasoned traveler herself, Anne’s approach is about? one tailor-made trip at a time. Her detailed research and broad knowledge of destinations and accommodations guarantee that each journey she designs is both opulent and authentically enriching.

Anne’s journey in the travel industry is marked by significant achievements. In 2023, Departure Lounge recognized her as a Top Producer, also awarding her the Shooting Star Award, a testament to her skill in crafting resonant travel experiences.

Beyond curating travel, Anne is dedicated to enriching the travel sphere through The Travel Studio , co-founded with advisor Ragan Stone. This innovative blend of travel-centric retail provides a co-working space for independent Travel advisors to collaborate, offering clients products from around the world and seasoned advice.

The Travel Studio retail boasts gems like Paravel’s sustainable luggage and Cincha’s trendy travel belts, reflecting her eye for quality and functionality. Her globe-trotting is not just for pleasure but for purpose, ensuring she can deliver the best of the best to her clients,

Looking ahead, Anne’s aspirations are clear: to delve deeper into the travel world, uncovering more gems and crafting unforgettable journeys as well as life-long memories. Under her guidance,, Anne Liles Travel is redefining what it means to design a trip of a lifetime.

GiaAnna Nguyen

When you merge the flair for globetrotting with the essence of Vietnamese-American heritage, you land on GiaAnna Nguyen – an authority in the luxury travel domain.

In GiaAnna’s chronicle, the focus isn’t solely on the endpoints; it’s an expedition fueled by perseverance, cultural tapestries, and innovation. Leading Anna Travel Inc., she designs sumptuous, personalized escapades, ensuring each client’s adventure is nothing less than sublime.

Anna’s method? It’s a rare blend, a concoction that distills her know-how into something extraordinary. When she combines her rich cultural background with a keen eye for detail and a passion for exploration, the results get wowsome.

Raised in environments that honed her survival and adaptation skills, GiaAnna turned challenges into stepping stones. A true Renaissance woman, she seamlessly moved from sports journalism in high school to nursing, and then shining in the travel industry, where her entrepreneurial flair truly stands out.

However, what sets her apart is her faith. As a devout Christian woman, she attributes her success to God’s guidance, acknowledging that none of her achievements would be possible without Him.

Anna Travel Inc . isn’t just a business; it’s where GiaAnna merges her passion for travel with empowering others. With tailored packages, luxurious stays, and expert advice, she makes dream vacations real. Her goal is to create a global network of luxury travel suppliers, securing exclusive access and experiences for clients. With a passion for travel and a client-centric approach, she crafts transformative journeys.

GiaAnna’s got dreams that reach way beyond those city lights. Mixing up her love for all things fashion and living the good life with stories from her travels, she’s on a mission to shine bright for everyone watching. From North Carolina’s roots to becoming a celebrated travel entrepreneur, her journey to establish Anna Travel Inc. invites others to see the world through her experienced eyes.

Metropolitan Touring

Metropolitan Touring has blazed trails in sustainable, transformative travel experiences for over seven decades. What started as the dream of a tight-knit crew of passionate friends quickly evolved into a pioneering force that sparked a seismic shift in responsible tourism across Ecuador.

Over the years, Metropolitan Touring has blossomed into a revered ambassador for their homeland, catalyzing the nation’s tourism boom through meticulously curated itineraries spotlighting Ecuador’s rich natural and cultural tapestry. Their world-class guide training programs and efforts to foster crucial air links were pivotal, especially in the ecological wonderland of the Galapagos Islands

Under Paulina Burbano de Lara’s innovative leadership , Metropolitan Touring has designed soulful, sustainable luxury adventures aimed at showcasing veritable natural treasures.

Achieving carbon neutrality in 2017 and championing an impactful Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance framework, their commitment to creating value for every community they traverse is unwavering.

The jewels in their crown include an iconic fleet of expedition vessels like the Santa Cruz II, La Pinta and Isabela II offering ultimate Galapagos odysseys, the historic Casa Gangotena boutique hotel, and the ultra-luxe Mashpi Lodge cloud forest cocoon—dreamy home bases experiencing Ecuador’s best. Also, readers can view the world through Metropolitan’s perceptive lens via their insightful blogs.

But Metropolitan Touring’s true hallmark is the seamless blend of passion, environmental ethics, and impeccable service. Their planned journeys become transformative immersions into Ecuador’s natural splendor and vibrant cultures, transcending checklists.

Metropolitan Touring ‘s sustainable travel leadership has been authenticated with accolades from Virtuoso and several other industry giants, as well as international conservation authorities. Yet for this company, the real legacy is pioneering an experiential, responsible tourism paradigm that uplifts communities while preserving the planet’s treasures for the coming generations.

Elyse Finamore

Imagine a vacation where the biggest decision you make is just what to pack. Elyse Finamore takes the ‘planning’ out of travel planning, leaving you with nothing but the thrill of all the relaxation and adventure to come. Launching Travels by Elyse in March 2022, amidst the mayhem of new motherhood and the heels of a world reopening its borders, Elyse turned her personal desire for stress-free vacations into a profession that serves the needs of the busy and overworked.

Elyse specializes in crafting custom surprise vacations. You set the dates and budget; she conjures the magic. Imagine all the joys of a vacation without the behind-the-scenes stress. That’s the signature experience Elyse offers.

Beyond her knack for surprise, Elyse has a pulse on the travel needs of modern women – with a hectic schedule. Balancing a career, family, and the occasional wedding plan, her target audience finds solace in her services. She’s the unseen hand that guides you to your dream European getaway or meticulously plans your honeymoon, ensuring every detail is perfect.

Her influence extends to Instagram. Her page, @travels_byelyse , is a treasure trove, covering everything from travel tips to essentials. Not only that, but she has also authored The Travels of You and Me – a journal that invites travelers to document their adventures, making memories tangible. This travel journal is unique in that it offers identical side by side pages, allowing two people to record reflections of the same day on the same trip, all in one place. This is perfect for a husband and wife traveling together, for siblings on family vacations, and makes a great gift for newlyweds!

Elyse’s approach to travel planning is revolutionary, not just because it simplifies vacations but also because it champions the belief that travel fosters understanding and acceptance. Through her work, Elyse isn’t just planning trips; she’s expanding worldviews, one surprise destination at a time.

Carole-Anne Hughs Wood

Ever thought about hopping from one luxurious destination to another with insider tips from a top travel advisor and marketer? Meet Carole-Anne Hughs Wood . With experience living in 10 cities across five countries, she’s now the Director of Marketing at Brickell Travel and a travel advising sensation.

Carole-Anne isn’t just any travel blogger; she’s the real deal. She co-founded the globally recognized Young Travel Professionals (YTP), was featured in Travel Agent Magazine’s “30 Under 30,” and graced the cover of their “Young Leaders: Fostering the Future” issue. She’s even nabbed the title of “Best Leading Actress by Travel Designer” by Tale-A-Guest Magazine and shined on Virtuoso’s Innovative Team for Lead Generation.

Carole-Anne brings a unique perspective to travel, thanks to her brilliant repertoire, shining with two Master’s degrees. She also spent five dynamic years at EMBARK Beyond , launching their branding and marketing department. Her knack for crafting bespoke travel experiences made waves, creating unforgettable journeys for high-profile clients. Think private tours of iconic landmarks and exclusive events that make every trip extraordinary.

Her latest role at Brickell Travel lets her infuse her rich experience and creative flair into every marketing campaign, ensuring travelers get the best of luxury travel.

So, why follow Carole-Anne? Because she offers more than just travel tips. She curates experiences that turn ordinary trips into unforgettable adventures. Swing by her Instagram for the ultimate travel inspiration, and let Carole-Anne Hughs Wood guide you to your next dream destination.

Meg Von Haartman

Meg von Haartman is what you’d call a high-flyer in the luxury travel game sans the actual pilot’s licence. With a PhD in optimization, Meg has crafted the art of maximizing luxury for your buck, making Traveler Ooh La La the go-to for those looking to splurge smartly on honeymoons and destination weddings. Forget the run-of-the-mill vacation packages; Meg’s bespoke itineraries are all about plush experiences without extravagant price tags.

Meg’s ability to combine the analytical and aspirational is rare. Her credentials? Impressive. She’s not only a Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and a recognized luxury travel specialist through TLN and the Travel Institute but also an expert in honeymoons and destination weddings with DWHSA. Plus, she runs her own tour company in Uzbekistan—talk about having skin in the game!

Traveler Ooh La La isn’t just Meg’s business; it’s her canvas for inspiring travel aficionados. Whether it’s a lavish getaway or an exotic nuptial celebration, she’s all about delivering an unmatched experience. Her secret weapon? Personal insights into traveling, thanks to her adventures.. Similarly, her interesting blog posts provide readers with both clear and captivating information.

Looking ahead, Meg aims to expand her horizons, literally and figuratively. She’s the type to ensure every detail is spot-on, promising stellar travel experiences that do more than just satisfy—they inspire. Off the clock, she’s a volunteer and in the WSET wine diploma program, showing her commitment to both community and continuous learning. So, if you’re plotting to take your travel dreams several notches higher, Meg von Haartman is your ticket to first class.

Top 12 Travel Experts Inspiring Others To Embark On Epic Journeys

Patrick Pickens

Vice President, Global Sales at BCD Travel

Patrick Pickens is a valued member of our Global Sales team with over ten years of experience in sales and international business. As an accomplished leader with a passion for travel, he oversees a portfolio of some of the largest global accounts at BCD.

Prior to joining BCD Travel, Patrick led Delta Air Lines’ global meetings, incentives, conferences and events team and represented Delta’s global sales team with 25 key meeting industry partners, media partners and international organizations. Patrick gained entrepreneurial experience through founding his own luxury skincare company, HiQ Cosmetics. Using his background in chemistry and biology, Patrick formulated, designed, and marketed an all-natural, luxury skincare product line which was distributed internationally. Patrick has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and an MBA in international business.

Patrick was previously on the board of directors of the LGBTQAI+ travel association, IGLTA, and currently serves on the board of AID Atlanta, a nonprofit organization committed to reducing new HIV infections and improving the quality of life for its community. He was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Speaker topics:

Traveler wellbeing
Traveler engagement
LGBTQIA+ travel
Innovative travel programs
Travel management trends
Travel program consolidation
Air travel trends

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More From Forbes

6 luxury hotels with waterparks.

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Make a splash in Rosewood Baha Mar’s inviting waters.

Imagine spending your vacation at a resort where the fun never stops, and a waterpark is outside your door. It’s a no-brainer for families — the kids get to enjoy splash pads, lazy rivers and thrilling slides without ever leaving the property. But let’s be honest, adults like to have fun in their swimsuits, too. These resorts with luxury water parks prove that the excitement isn’t just for the little ones.

Whether you’re in the area and want to pop in on a day pass or if you’re searching for a hotel so loaded with perks that you don’t have to think about an off-site itinerary, these properties with incredible water features provide an unforgettable getaway.

Rosewood Baha Mar , Nassau, Bahamas

Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Baha Mar’s oceanfront water park, Baha Bay , debuted in July 2024. The 15-acre playground features 24 water slides, a dueling water coaster, a 500,000-gallon wave pool and a winding river. You’ll also find splash zones, mini water slides for kids and a beachfront infinity pool.

Ready to roll the dice and try your luck? Visit the outdoor casino with stunning ocean views. Grand Hyatt and SLS Baha Mar hotel guests can also enjoy access to Baha Mar waterpark. Limited day passes for the public are available as well.

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Evermore Bay is eight acres of aquatic fun.

Conrad Orlando and Evermore Resort

Opened in January 2024, this unicorn dual resort offers endless accommodation options. At Conrad Orlando, you can choose a full-service upscale hotel room or suite and, at Evermore Resort, you can book a modern apartment or individual home (up to 11 bedrooms) with a full kitchen and laundry — convenient for a wedding party or multi-generational family vacation.

Guests have access to the heart of both resorts: the eight-acre Evermore Bay, a crystalline lagoon surrounded by white silky sand. Paddleboards and kayaks are complimentary. There’s also a cool group slide and old-fashioned rope swing. Within a 12-minute drive to Walt Disney World, these two properties are great options if you want beach-like amenities, a host of dining options, a spa and more.

The perfect way to enjoy an Arizona day.

JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

This Forbes Travel Guide Recommended hotel has outdone itself with an $80 million makeover that includes the new Aquaridge Waterpark, which debuted in late 2023. The attraction features a revamped lazy river and Wildfire Grove, an area with two pools and a gorgeous waterfall.

But the real highlight for little kids (and big ones, too) is the Havasu Playground. Here, you’ll find three new water slides, including Gullywasher — the only dual-person tube slide at a resort west of the Mississippi. It goes up a tall, vertical wall, guaranteed to deliver thrills for anyone taller than 46 inches. There are also two enclosed tubular slides, The Drop and Little Eddy. And when you need a break from the screams, head to the luxurious Sedona Springs hot tub area or the Sky Island adults-only experience. Day passes for non-guests can also be purchased.

Enjoy floaties and fairways at Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club.

Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club

Four-Star Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club’s new Entertainment Park opened in January 2024 and is a 600,000-gallon splash of paradise. The luxury waterpark’s centerpiece is a shimmering zero-entry, lagoon-style pool that’s perfect for a leisurely dip in the beach-like oasis.

For daredevils, two spiraling slides and a flying saucer slide deliver thrills. If relaxing with a piña colada is more your speed, hop on a tube and drift along the 1,400-foot lazy river. For little ones, the splash pad has pint-sized slides, splash blasters, fountains and even a water cannon.

The Boca Raton Beach Club’s watery playground.

The Boca Raton Beach Club

The Five-Star Boca Raton Beach Club, one of five hotels in the Boca Raton Resort complex, unveiled a renovation in December 2024. As part of this reimagination, the resort’s Harborside Pool Club was transformed into a lavish lakefront oasis where you can ride two five-story waterslides, float along the 450-foot lazy river or catch a wave on the FlowRider.

An adults-only pool offers ultimate relaxation with luxury cabanas (including a Ferrari-inspired one) while the family pool promises endless fun for the group. Younger kids can explore a pirate ship splash zone while teens hang out and play virtual reality games at The Break.

Go for a ride at Atlantis, The Palm.

Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal , Dubai

Tucked between these sister properties, you’ll find the world’s largest waterpark. Aquaventure Waterpark will keep the family busy with more than 105 slides and attractions. Thrill seekers will line up for the Leap of Faith, where you drop down a near-vertical 98-foot slide that shoots you through a clear tube surrounded by cownose rays and sharks, and Poseidon’s Revenge, an adrenaline-pumping slide whose entrance is a trap door that plummets you 380 feet.

Or opt for the family-friendly Shark Attack, where you’ll float through a fiberglass tunnel amid sharks; the River Rapids, the longest river in the region; or the world’s largest kids zone.

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Moscow Markets

Rynoks (outdoor markets) are good places to find strange and delicious foods. Look for lumpy red churchkhela, a kind of Georgian candy made from walnuts and grape juice. Stalls sell piles of bright-pink pickled garlic, peppers, and grape leaves, strings of dried wild mushrooms, and dried and salted fresh-water fish. In fall, the berry selection might include rose hips; orange oblepikha, or sea buckthorn; and brusnika, or cowberry. You can also sample unfamiliar fruits, including the small red plum, kizil, or Cornelian cherry, and aromatic green feikhua (feijoa), a citrus fruit with an interior that tastes like strawberry.

Usually no price is shown for goods. Ask " SkOlko stOit?" or "how much is it?" If the price sounds too high, say the number of rubles you think is reasonable. If the offer is refused, and you don't like the price, say "nyet, dorogo," or "no, it's expensive," and turn away. The trader may then tell you, "dlya vas skidka," or "you get a discount." You'll likely receive a realistic price then.

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Experts say travel insurance is crucial: Here's how it actually works

Whether illness or weather derails plans, policies can cover a range of issues.

Whether you're a frequent traveler or setting plans for an upcoming vacation, unexpected circumstances such as bad weather can cast a cloud over a trip, which is why experts suggest investing in travel insurance.

Recently, Hurricane Beryl marked an "early and violent start" to the typical storm season. NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad confirmed in a mid-season update earlier this month that Beryl was "the earliest category-5 Atlantic hurricane on record" -- and peak storm season is right around the corner.

With increased risk of disruptions during hurricane season through November and more people opting for shoulder season getaways after avoiding summer crowds , travelers should prepare for such worse-case scenarios to avoid losing money on hotels, activities and other bookings.

Everything you need to know about travel insurance

With an array of options in the market and various individual reasons to invest in a plan that protects your purchases, "Good Morning America" tapped top industry experts to provide insights to help ensure that even if your next getaway gets rained out, your bank account won't be drained as well.

"Things can go wrong in ways that you can't begin to imagine. And if you're unlucky and unfortunate enough to be in that position, you don't want to come back from your trip with a debt to pay off as well," Daniel Green, trip insurance expert and co-founder of Faye Travel Insurance, told "GMA."

Understand the basics before you buy bespoke coverage

Katy Nastro, spokesperson for Going.com, formerly known as Scott's Cheap Flights, told "GMA" that first and foremost, folks need to "understand all the ways in which you are already protected before dishing out for things you don't need."

"When it comes to flight insurance, under federal law, you are already protected to get a full refund or rebooked on a significantly delayed flight or cancellation, regardless of the reason," she said. "With new regulations that airlines must comply with by the end of October, seeing your refund back to your payment method will get a lot faster and more seamless."

Nastro said "many travel credit cards already have built-in trip insurance that can protect you when the unexpected happens," citing perks from the Chase Sapphire Reserve card that provide "reimbursements up to $10,000 per person for pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses when an interruption happens."

You should always buy insurance for one simple reason -- when you start thinking -- 'I hope we have insurance,' it's one minute too late

"These cards often pay sooner than the airlines do for expenses due to misplaced bags," she added.

Nastro also suggested to check on coverage across state lines with any existing medical or car insurance policies, which could help cut down on costs.

"Specifically, when it comes to medical insurance, medical care around the world is generally a fraction of the cost compared to what it is in the U.S. So, while it could be good to have if you need stitches in Vietnam, it probably won't break the bank," she said.

Because travel insurance is subjective, Nastro said "it's worth considering when you exhaust your existing coverages to see where you might have some gaps."

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Experts say you may want to take out travel insurance before your next trip

Travel experts' advice to save on flights, hotels by booking opposite season.

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How does travel insurance work and what's actually covered?

"A great example is when you have a trip with multiple components that aren't purchased together, like a flight and cruise," Nastro told "GMA." "The cruise won't wait when your flight has been rebooked for the next day, so in this scenario, it might be worth looking at insurance on the cruise portion. You can typically add insurance after the fact, but reading the fine print is critical."

"Trip or travel insurance tends to be cheaper to buy, but is restricted to what is actually covered and often has red tape in terms of getting that reimbursement. For example, if you have an illness and need to cancel your trip, policies might require a doctor's note," she continued.

She added, "Travel insurance with 'cancel for any reason' policies tends to be more expensive to purchase, but more inclusive in terms of what is considered a 'covered' reason. The biggest caveat is that they offer a partial refund -- 50% to 75% of nonrefundable expenses."

When it comes to weather, she reiterated that reading the fine print is critical, because "the coverage typically offered is for extreme weather and scenarios where the operator cannot operate for 24 hours or more, so a typical summer thunderstorm won't make the cut."

Green added that, generally, if a customer buys travel insurance from an airline provider, since the carrier "doesn't know all the details of your trip" beyond the price and date of the flight, "if you're renting a car and traveling around -- or staying in a $4,000 hotel, you might only have $1,000 worth of insurance because at the checkout screen of American or United or Delta, they just didn't know about those costs."

"That's why I think it makes a lot more sense to buy insurance directly from either a website portal or an agent that can show you the main limits, so you know all the things you spent are covered as part of the policy," he said.

As Nastro pointed out, payment for claims can become a sticky situation, which is why Green helped craft an more seamless way to alleviate issues by providing the reassurance of immediate reimbursement: "If you have Apple Pay or Google Pay, you can access that money instantly after the claim is settled," he told "GMA."

What is shoulder season? Experts tips to save on airfare, hotels in opposite seasons

Green co-founded Faye just before the COVID-19 pandemic sent the travel industry into a tailspin, but said now, "the concern on the American mind more than anything is who's gonna pay for this? Especially in these days of inflation, if you're paying significant amounts of money for travel, and something goes wrong, you'd like to at least be made whole."

3 categories to consider for travel insurance coverage

Green explained that travel insurance can generally be broken into three categories: your investment in the trip, your belongings such as luggage and passports, and your health.

For anyone booking travel on their own, without a travel agent or adviser, Green highlighted the difference between buying travel insurance directly versus clicking "yes" on an app or checkout screen.

"You're not always being offered insurance that's in your best interest if you're just hoping that whatever your credit card comes with, or whatever your airline gives you at the end of the checkout is going to provide everything you need," he said.

He noted that one important tip for any type of travel coverage purchase is "the earlier you tell your insurance company that something has gone wrong, the more likely it is that they can help you while you're on your trip -- and helping sometimes means paying for expenses so that you don't have to be out of pocket and get reimbursement."

Weather-specific products for travel inconveniences

Products like Sensible Weather offer more specific elements to cover scenarios such as rain during a beach vacation or lack of snow for a ski trip, which may derail plans.

"The idea of travel inconvenience payments, it just takes the sting out of things," Green said. "In those scenarios, you just get a fixed, agreed amount of money -- sort of no questions asked -- You just have to prove that you actually experienced the loss in question, and then you get the full amount."

"You should always buy insurance for one simple reason -- because usually at the point when you start thinking to yourself, 'Wow, I hope we have insurance,' it's one minute too late," Green said. "Hurricane season is the perfect example of that. Once a hurricane is named, you generally can't make any claims related to the hurricane if you didn't already buy a policy."

"What we're learning about the current hurricane season is the weather is becoming unpredictable all the time," Green said. "We've heard about days where the weather was so hot in Phoenix that airplanes couldn't take off from the tarmac, hurricanes coming sooner than expected, or power failures causing an airport to not be able to operate -- and because those things are so unpredictable, playing the game of wait and see before buying your insurance rarely make sense versus justbuying it around the time you buy your trip and not having to worry about that aspect again."

How much plans cost and limitations

"There is no one size fits all when it comes to travel insurance," Green noted.

However, he said "there are rules of thumb" that industry experts often follow: "You should be willing to spend up to 10% of the cost of your trip on your insurance."

"The two biggest factors that usually affect the cost of your insurance is your age at the time of purchase, not at the time of travel, and the value of your trip," he said, adding that "every company is different."

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19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

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Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

Saint Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, Russia

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

Interior of the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscos

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

GUM, a popular department store in Moscow

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve, former residence of Catherine the Great

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

The floating bridge of Zaryadye Park in Moscow

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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I tried this luxury travel stroller and finally felt like the cool mom that I was always meant to be

I'm the soon-to-be mom of two and I tested the Silver Cross Jet 5 travel stroller for three weeks with my toddler.

I’m pregnant and a toddler mom, so the NBC Select team has made me their de facto tester for parenting and maternity products. I guess that makes me an expert. While crafting my baby registry, the Silver Cross Jet 5 stroller was on the short list, so I jumped for joy (as much as I can jump at 8 months pregnant) when the team asked me to review it.

SKIP AHEAD How I tested | What I liked | Some things to note | Other strollers | Why trust NBC Select?

select I’m pregnant and refuse to wear jeans — here are my favorite maternity leggings

Silver cross jet 5 stroller.

The newly launched Silver Cross Jet 5 stroller is marketed as the perfect travel stroller — in fact, the brand says that you can push the stroller up to the gate, effortlessly fold it up and store it in the overhead compartment. While I found that it didn’t replace my everyday stroller, I absolutely adored it for the dreaded “traveling with kids” times.

How I tested the Silver Cross Jet 5 stroller

I tested this stroller for three weeks and evaluated its size, weight and durability — grocery shopped, walked my son to camp and strutted around a mall. I also lifted the stroller (again, I’m 8 months pregnant), folded it up and stored it in my home and trunk. My initial impressions on some key features are below:

Size : Compared to the YOYO Zen (another beloved travel stroller) , both strollers fold really well, but the Silver Cross can fold even smaller and more compact than the Yoyo, in my experience.
Weight : While weight doesn’t seem like an important factor, at 37 weeks pregnant, I wanted this stroller to be something I could manage on my own. After all, I’m a strong independent woman who just happens to also be pregnant. The stroller folded with ease and could be taken in and out of a car by myself , with ease.

What I like

With a 37-week-pregnant belly and a 2.5-year-old, I don’t leave the house unless I have to. My hands are already full enough, but then you add the diaper bag, snacks and emotional support stuffed animal — it’s just too much. And the amount to carry doubles when we go on a road trip or a vacation. That’s why a lightweight stroller is of the utmost importance. Our car has been feeling even smaller and smaller these days, so the Silver Cross Jet 5 — weighing 15.87 lbs — stroller came at the perfect time. With the new baby on the way, I also loved the double perk of working for my 27-pound toddler and a newborn.

I’d be remiss not to mention how sleek and modern the stroller looks — you’d be like, “C’mon Becca, it’s right in front of you.” While convenience is key (and the stroller delivers that), I was so excited by the leather details, fancy magnetic buckles and padded seat — I’m not a regular mom, I’m a cool mom who wants a cool stroller. The material feels as silky as the top of a newborn’s head. For the first time, I felt like a stylish mom wheeling my Jet 5 down the grocery aisles.

The Jet 5 fully reclines, allowing for long naps for newborns to toddlers

If I’m buying a travel stroller, it needs to fit in the plane’s overhead bin. My husband and I have too many horror stories of checked strollers being damaged (stories for another time). With the Jet 5, you can roll your child right up to the plane. Plus, it folds in one smooth motion with one hand, allowing for smooth boarding. The stroller also comes with a protective cover to ensure there is no damage when being loaded in your car or overhead bin.

Parents know the struggle of buckling your bucking child into the stroller when trying to leave the house, and the sleek three-click magnetic buckle did not let me down. I didn’t have to worry about snapping my fingers accidentally or pinching my toddler’s skin.

The Jet 5 comes with magnetic buckles, that are difficult for a toddler to open themselves

Something largely important for safety in a stroller is a good locking feature — where the wheels lock to prevent the stroller from rolling away. Some have locks on the handles and some only have one peddle to click up and down. I love the Jet 5’s bottom two locks, colored in green and red for an obvious, yet effective method to lock your stroller.

Dual locks with step on and off functionality

Size and weight

When the box arrived, I could not believe it fit a stroller inside something that small. Whether you have a small house or car, this stroller can fit into any corner or trunk space, with plenty of leftover space. At just 15.87 lbs, I love that I can lift and maneuver this stroller all by myself while juggling a running toddler.

Advertised as ”suitable from birth to 55 lbs and is car seat compatible,” the Jet 5 carries the heaviest weight that I have found in a travel stroller. That means that my little one still has 20 more lbs to go before he’s too big for it. The newborn car seat adapter is also *chef’s kiss*.

Easy to use car seat adapter, for lightweight easy transitions in and out of car

The Jet 5 also comes with a lie-flat feature, which is incredibly handy for napping toddlers. You can even keep the sun out of your sleeping baby’s eyes with the hood, which has UPF 50+ protection.

Things to note

In my experience, this stroller is meant for travel and is not ideal for work or everyday use. I found that the lack of storage was a little frustrating for everyday use — I could only fit minimal small items, meaning I had to be strategic about fitting things under the seat. Also, if you’re heavily pregnant, access to the basket is tricky; You need to bend over and maneuver around a bar in the front middle of the basket, so taking out items is a bit laborious.

The Jet 5 starts at a hefty price of $475, which is on the higher end than some other travel strollers. If you want additions like a phone holder, snack tray or cup holder those are an additional $30 per item. The stroller does come with a protective cover and raincover, which is a nice addition. But, the quality and size making the price worth it, in my opinion.

Other baby stroller products to consider

Along with the Silver Cross Jet 5 travel stroller, I’ve tried many other everyday and travel strollers (remember, I’m an expert). If you’re still undecided on the Jet 5, then check out a few of my other recommendations.

Guava Roam Stroller

Other parents will understand: the most exciting thing about this stroller is the storage. It’s not hyperbole when I say that you barely need a diaper bag when using the Guava — the side pockets hold toddler snacks and water, the behind-seat pockets hold adult snacks and the below-stroller pockets are great for larger items. I also love how elevated and organized the pockets make the stroller feel — one less chaotic mess for me to tackle.

BabyZen Yoyo2 Stroller

Babyzen Yoyo2 Stroller

With one flick of the wrist, you can fold and unfold the YoYo stroller, which is huge for traveling and commutes. It’s typically a part of my normal stroller rotation, so I would also highly recommend this option.

Strolee Travel Stroller

The pricepoint on this travel stroller is pretty competitive. It can recline almost completely flat and is travel-friendly, meaning that it can fit in the overhead compartment. It can also turn into a tandem double stroller in under 30 seconds, according to the brand.

select This is the best baby stroller I’ve ever used — seriously

Final verdict .

I love the Silver Cross Jet 5. If you are in the market for a travel-friendly stroller, this is a great, stylish option (albeit pricey one). I would not suggest it for everyday use given that the snack and diaper-storage pockets are limited.

Why trust NBC Select?

I am the senior commerce photo editor and producer at NBCUniversal. I’m also the mom to a two-year-old and pregnant with my second baby. I’ve tested nearly a dozen baby strollers to find the best one for my growing family. I’ve also written reviews for Shop Today, including my review of Amazon workout shirts and gifts for Mother’s Day .

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Senior commerce photo editor

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9 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators in August 2024: Our Expert Picks

Portable concentrators offer a refill-free alternative to oxygen tanks.
Portable oxygen concentrators require a prescription from a doctor, who can recommend the appropriate oxygen output and flow type.
The price of portable oxygen concentrators ranges from $2,000–$4,000, but Medicare and private insurance may cover part of the cost.
The Inogen Rove 6 is lightweight and quiet with a long battery life, making it our pick for the best portable oxygen concentrator overall.

Our Reviews Team recommends products and services we believe provide value in the lives of our readers. We’ve spent more than 1,000 hours carrying out in-depth research on each oxygen concentrator to give you the most accurate review. To make our selections, we:

Engaged in independent research
Consulted with geriatric care and respiratory medicine experts
Mystery shopped more than 15 brands and 30 models of oxygen machines
Surveyed 600 oxygen machine users and caregivers of oxygen machine users
Reviewed academic research into the efficacy of portable oxygen concentrators
Read real reviews from verified customers on trusted third party websites, such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot

Our methodology was informed by published research and interviews with medical experts. We consulted geriatric and respiratory care professionals, such as Betty Lyda , RRT, Amber Snow , MSN, and Jenny Sanford , PCNP, who also medically reviewed our content.Read more about our oxygen machine review methodology .

If your doctor has prescribed supplemental oxygen, you may choose a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) or a home oxygen concentrator (HOC), depending on your doctor’s recommendation. A POC, also called a portable oxygen machine, provides safe, effective delivery of oxygen to people with low oxygen levels while they are away from home, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). You may use a POC while running errands, traveling, or doing other activities outside the house.

Finding the best portable oxygen concentrator for your needs can be confusing—especially if you’re buying one for the first time. Our Reviews Team researched the best POCs on the market to help you choose. We dug into information on pricing, features, battery life, and more to help you find the best model for you.

Our top picks: researched and expert-approved

A quick look at the best portable oxygen concentrators in 2024

Inogen Rove 6 : Most Discreet
CAIRE Freestyle Comfort : Best Battery Life
Oxlife Liberty2 : Best Continuous and Pulse Flow
Inogen One G4 : Most Portable
CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5 : Highest Oxygen Output
Precision Medical EasyPulse 5-Liter : Best Warranty
Invacare Platinum Mobile : Most Durable
Precision Medical Live Active Five : Most Comfortable to Carry

Best portable oxygen concentrators in 2024

The Inogen Rove 6 is a small, lightweight device with a long battery life. This machine can be worn with a shoulder strap as you walk to and from your flight and is easily stored underneath your seat or by your side on the plane. It is also approved for use on planes by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), as is every POC we reviewed.

Generally, the lower the oxygen output and the longer the battery life, the better the POC is for air travel. If you use a double battery for your Rove 6, you’ll have up to 13 hours of power on Setting 1 and nine hours on Setting 2 . The Rove 6 also has a maximum oxygen output of 1.26 liters per minute (LPM) and six different flow settings to suit your oxygen needs.

The free Inogen Connect app is a bonus feature to connect the Rove 6 to your smartphone. You can check the battery life and change your concentrator settings on the app instead of pressing buttons on the machine itself.

A customer review on the Oxygen Concentrator Store said, “I’ve used it one day so far, and all is well with the G5. I chose it because of the longer battery life it has. I was tired of feeling like a prisoner in my home. I wasn’t able to be out for more than 2 hours without carrying extra tanks with me. Now I can do more things with the Rove 6.”

Inogen has an additional brand called OxyGo , selling the same machines under a different name. The Inogen Rove 6 is the same machine as the OxyGo Next . The cost is the same; the only difference is the OxyGo Next comes with a five-year warranty, and the Rove 6 comes with a three-year warranty.

Earlier this year, Inogen rebranded the One G5 to the Rove 6 to comply with European regulations. While the product is the same, the name has changed. You can still rent the One G5, but only the Rove 6 is available for purchase.

Read our full Inogen review .

Customer service

The Inogen Rove 6 is available for purchase from medical equipment suppliers such as the Oxygen Concentrator Store. See below for details on Oxygen Concentrator Store’s customer service hours, ways to reach them, and our Reviews Team’s experience with the customer service department.

The CAIRE Freestyle Comfort delivers oxygen for up to 16 hours between charges (with an extended battery), surpassing most other models on the market. This is why our Reviews Team named it “Best Battery Life.” If you enjoy long outings, this unit may be a great fit.

Extended batteries add an additional cost to your purchase, but offer longer battery life. With the Freestyle Comfort, it costs an additional $589 for the 16-cell battery. If you purchase the machine and the extended battery, the total cost adds up to $3,584.

A feature making the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort unique is its leading technology. It has ultra-sensitive breath detection, automatically changing the flow to match your breathing rate.

CAIRE’s Comfort Zone service program also sets the brand apart. Comfort Zone includes the following features:

Live online orientation with a CAIRE representative to help you set up your machine
Customer support seven days a week
A replacement POC will be sent to your home within three business days if yours malfunctions

The last point is unique among portable oxygen concentrator companies; no other brand we’ve reviewed provides this type of warranty or service. The replacement device will become your new unit, and the warranty from your older device will transfer over. Comfort Zone is included with the purchase of a CAIRE Freestyle Comfort unit at no extra cost.

The CAIRE Freestyle Comfort can also be purchased as the ARYA Portable Oxygen Concentrator . The machines are the same but sold under different brand names and prices. The Arya POC costs $3,495, while the Freestyle Comfort costs $2,995.

A customer review on the Oxygen Concentrator Store page said, “After spending two days researching for a concentrator replacement with the right balance between weight and battery run time, choosing the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort was easy. And it was a pleasant experience talking to the representative. I now have a smaller unit that easily fits into my walker’s seat compartment and has five output flow levels. Very pleased.”

The Freestyle Comfort is a good device if you don’t want to worry about changing batteries every few hours while out and about. Explore more in our full CAIRE review .

The CAIRE Freestyle Comfort is available for purchase from medical equipment suppliers such as the Oxygen Concentrator Store. See below for details on Oxygen Concentrator Store’s customer service hours, ways to reach them, and our Reviews Team’s experience with the customer service department.

Oxygen needs can change, and you may want a device to accommodate those changes. The Oxlife Liberty2 offers both up to 2 LPM oxygen in the continuous flow setting as well as nine pulse settings. This portable oxygen concentrator boasts the highest pulse dose compared to all other POCs. This range gives users flexibility in their oxygen flow if their doctor recommends a change in dose.

The Oxlife Liberty2 is a portable oxygen concentrator that offers both pulse-delivered and continuous flow. It comes with nine pulse settings and a high maximum oxygen output of 2 LPM on continuous flow. This is a lightweight device that weighs just over 6 pounds and comes with a carry case.

The Oxlife Liberty2 is great for someone who needs continuous flow oxygen while they sleep, as this model has a rechargeable battery that can be charged while in use on every setting.

The Oxlife Liberty2 is the highest portable oxygen concentrator at $3,594, but it is regularly discounted by 17 percent. One downside of this model is that a warranty isn’t included with purchase, but must be added at an additional cost.

The Oxlife Liberty2 is available for purchase on the Apria Direct website, which requires a valid prescription from a doctor. The customer service department is open daily from 8am to 10pm eastern time. You can contact customer service by phone at 800-780-1508.

The Inogen One G4 (also sold as the OxyGo Fit ) is smaller and lighter than almost every other POC on the market, making it our Reviews Team’s pick for the “Most Portable Oxygen Concentrator.” If you’re often on the go and need something easy to carry, this model may be an ideal option.

Because it’s so small, the G4 is less powerful than other models, with a maximum oxygen output of only 0.63 LPM. The other Inogen model on this list, the Inogen One G5, has an output of 1.26 LPM.

The G4 single battery lasts only about 2 hours and 40 minutes , depending on the setting. If you’re heading out for more than a quick errand, you’ll want to have the double battery or bring an extra one for backup. You also have the option to charge your machine in the car between errands.

You can connect the G4 to your smartphone using the free Inogen Connect app . The app allows you to use your phone to check the battery status and change device settings.

Some customer reviews from the Oxygen Concentrator Store and Trustpilot reported the device can overheat. When our Reviews Team asked a representative at the Oxygen Concentrator Store about this, they said POCs can be susceptible to overheating when the vent is covered up, which can happen if the machine is placed in the carry bag incorrectly or placed too close to another object for a long time. Overheating prevents it from functioning properly, and it may damage the machine. When you place the machine down or in the carry bag, ensure the vent isn’t covered.

Our Reviews Team found most customer reviews from the Oxygen Concentrator Store and Trustpilot on this product were positive. Reviewers praised the device’s light weight, which allows them to run errands with ease. One reviewer from the Oxygen Concentrator Store said, “Within 24 hours, I had the unit in hand, and I was just so excited. I had my freedom again! It has kept my oxygen consistent. I am already looking to get a smaller battery for extra time while I’m out. Being a small person, I don’t think I could carry a much heavier machine.”

Read more about this oxygen concentrator in our detailed Inogen review .

The Inogen One G4 is available for purchase from local medical equipment suppliers such as the Oxygen Concentrator Store. See below for details on the Oxygen Concentrator Store’s customer service hours, ways to reach them, and our Reviews Team’s experience with the customer service department.

The CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5 has the highest oxygen output of all the portable oxygen concentrators we reviewed. The oxygen output on this machine can go up to 1.92 LPM on pulse flow and 3 LPM on continuous flow , so it can be used while sleeping. It also has nine different settings for pulse flow, allowing users to adjust to their specific dosage.

Since this concentrator has a high oxygen output, it is bigger and heavier than other devices and cannot be carried in a bag. The SeQual Eclipse 5 is 19.3 inches tall, 12.3 inches wide, 7.1 inches deep, and weighs 18.4 pounds . The device comes with a wheeled cart to make it easier to move around. Some customer reviews on the Oxygen Concentrator Store reported they prefer this machine as they can roll it around on a cart instead of one carried in a shoulder bag.

Customer reviews vary when it comes to the machine’s noisiness: some reported the machine is louder than expected, while others reported it is quieter than other machines they’ve used. The noise level of the SeQual Eclipse 5 varies based on its setting. At 3 LPM on continuous flow, the noise level is 48 decibels— comparable to the noise level of the average office. [2] International Noise Awareness Day. Common noise levels – how loud is too loud? Found on the internet at https://noiseawareness.org/info-center/common-noise-levels/ At the pulse dose setting of 3, the noise level is 40 decibels—comparable to background noise in a library. [2] International Noise Awareness Day. Common noise levels – how loud is too loud? Found on the internet at https://noiseawareness.org/info-center/common-noise-levels/

A customer reviewer on the Oxygen Concentrator Store wrote, “I had another high oxygen unit that did not work for me, and I returned it. The other high-flow oxygen machine was extremely noisy, but this one is quiet. When I take it shopping, I put it in the cart. It is heavy to lift, but I can still do it. I like this machine, and this is much easier after using big oxygen tanks to go out. The [SeQual Eclipse 5] has allowed me the freedom to go on trips again.”

The CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5 is available for purchase from local medical equipment suppliers such as the Oxygen Concentrator Store. See below for details on Oxygen Concentrator Store’s customer service hours, ways to reach them, and our Reviews Team’s experience with the customer service department.

When purchasing an oxygen concentrator, you want a reliable machine able to work for years to come. Even though there’s no way to know for sure how long a device will last, you can ensure the POC you purchase has a warranty covering any damage or issues. The Precision Medical EasyPulse comes with a five-year warranty (the other POCs we reviewed come with three-year warranties). The EasyPulse is a great choice for those looking for extra protection to cover their POC.

The EasyPulse has a user-friendly design with large, easy-to-read buttons and a top handle to move it from place to place when not in its carrying case. The maximum oxygen output is 0.78 LPM , which is lower than other machines on this list.

This machine is the heaviest pulse dose machine in our review, weighing 6.6 pounds . If you are looking for a smaller device, the EasyPulse is available in a 3-liter option weighing 4.9 pounds and ranges in cost from $975 to $1,118. The cost varies with either machine depending on if you purchase a backpack or an external battery.

The 3-liter machine has three pulse settings, while the 5-liter machine has five settings. The 5-liter machine is quieter than the 3-liter machine (40.6 decibels compared to 42 decibels). On Setting 1, the 3-liter device has a battery life of 5.5 hours , and the 5-liter machine has 4.7 hours .

The EasyPulse POC is available for purchase online through the Precision Medical website . Precision Medical doesn’t have any reviews on Trustpilot or BBB. Our Reviews Team found it very difficult to reach customer service. When we contacted them through the contact form, we never received a reply.

You can contact Precision Medical customer service using the following methods:

Contact form
Phone (800-272-7285)

Our Reviews Team chose the Invacare Platinum Mobile as our “Most Durable” POC because this solid machine can resist impact and endure accidental falls. The Platinum Mobile is encased in shock-resistant foam with reinforced bumpers for added protection. In addition to being water resistant, the machine can tolerate temperatures from 41 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit and altitudes up to 10,000 feet.

One of the benefits of the Invacare Platinum Mobile is the carrying bag, which can convert into a backpack, messenger bag, or purse. The machine is also lightweight, weighing 4.8 pounds .

The battery compartment is located at the top of the device, making it easy to access on the go without having to remove it from the carrying case. The Invacare Platinum Mobile comes with a single battery, providing up to four hours of charge. If you anticipate being out of the house for longer than four hours, you can purchase an additional battery, giving you eight hours of running time on Setting 1.

A customer review on the Oxygen Concentrator Store stated, “I travel a lot internationally, and a year ago, I realized I had been suffering from high-altitude pulmonary edema for years. Now, with my oxygen concentrator, I get off a long flight feeling great and ready to go. No more international doctor visits. It’s never overheated, and some airlines let me plug in. It’s been awesome.”

The Invacare Platinum Mobile is available for purchase from local medical equipment suppliers such as the Oxygen Concentrator Store. See below for details on Oxygen Concentrator Store’s customer service hours, ways to reach them, and our Reviews Team’s experience with the customer service department.

The Precision Medical Live Active Five has a unique curved design, separating it from other POCs we reviewed. Some POCs are designed with a curve to fit around your body in the carry bag. But the Live Active Five is curved on both sides of the machine, so you can carry it on either side of your body. The device is lightweight, but if it does become too heavy for one shoulder, you can switch it over to the other.

In addition to the curved features, the Live Active Five has a simple design with few buttons and an easily read LCD screen featuring large text. You can access the battery from the top of the device, so you do not need to take it out of the carrying case when changing the batteries.

As a bonus feature, you can also connect the machine to a computer or smartphone through Bluetooth to troubleshoot the unit if you encounter any problems. The Live Active Five has audible and visual alarms if there are problems like:

Low battery
Blocked cannula
Low oxygen purity
No breath detected
High breath rate
External power failure

If the machine doesn’t detect your breath, it will automatically deliver a pulse of oxygen. The Live Active Five also has five pulse settings and a maximum oxygen output of 1 LPM .

The Precision Medical Live Active Five is sold through the Precision Medical website and online distributors like Vitality Medical .

Vitality Medical has a good score on Trustpilot —4.4 out of 5 stars based on over 35,000 reviews. On BBB , Vitality Medical has an A+ rating and 1.4 out of 5 stars based on 46 customer reviews. Reviewers reported the buying experience was quick and easy, and customer service representatives were prompt, professional, and friendly.

You can contact Vitality Medical through one of the following methods:

Phone (800-397-5899) , available Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT
Email ( [email protected] )

You can pay for your machine with a credit card (American Express, Visa, Mastercard, or Discover), Diners Club International, PayPal, or Google Pay.

Oxygen Concentrator Store customer service

Some of the oxygen concentrators in this review are available through the online retailer Oxygen Concentrator Store. Pricing estimates are subject to change. You can contact the customer service department in the following ways:

6 a.m. to 9 p.m. MT Monday through Friday
7 a.m. to 7 p.m. MT Saturday
8 a.m. to 7 p.m. MT Sunday
Email: ( [email protected] )
Online chat: On the OCS support page
Contact form : Submit an online ticket on the contact form, and a representative will respond within one business day.

The Oxygen Concentrator Store website also has a detailed product support page with information on cleaning, maintenance, and use of portable oxygen concentrators.

Our Reviews Team’s customer service experience

A member of our Reviews Team called the Oxygen Concentrator Store to learn more about the brands and models in this list. It took less than 30 seconds to get a representative on the line. He was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about every model we asked about.

He informed us all portable oxygen machines sold through the Oxygen Concentrator Store come with a free seven-day trial period. If you find the unit you’ve purchased has mechanical problems, is hard to use, or just isn’t a good fit for you, simply call the store to receive a shipping label. Then, you can send the unit back (at your own cost) and exchange it for a different one.

Shipping takes about three to five business days, but Oxygen Concentrator Store also offers two-day and overnight shipping for an additional cost.

After sharing details of the various models over the phone, the representative offered to email us the information and gave us his direct phone number for any future questions. He also said even if we didn’t buy a unit from the Oxygen Concentrator Store, he would be happy to answer questions and provide help in the future. We were very pleased with the customer service experience; it felt like we were learning about portable oxygen concentrators rather than enduring a high-pressure sales call.

What is a portable oxygen concentrator?

People with lung issues, such as sleep apnea, COPD, and cystic fibrosis, may use a portable oxygen concentrator as a means of inhaling supplementary oxygen when they are away from home. These machines are typically lightweight and small, making them easy to transport.

Portable oxygen concentrators provide supplemental oxygen by removing oxygen from the air, compressing it, and removing the nitrogen. After that, the oxygen is stored in a tank where it can be delivered through a tube for breathing.

How does a portable oxygen concentrator work?

Oxygen concentrators take in air from the environment, filter out nitrogen, and deliver oxygen to the person using the device. [1] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Pulse oximeters and oxygen concentrators: What to know about at-home oxygen therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/pulse-oximeters-and-oxygen-concentrators-what-know-about-home-oxygen-therapy The oxygen is usually delivered through a cannula sitting beneath the nose. These devices are different from oxygen tanks because oxygen concentrators use electrical pumps to concentrate oxygen from outside, according to an article in the journal Breathe . In contrast, oxygen tanks have a set amount of oxygen stored inside the container requiring the tanks to be replaced with another filled container when empty. [3] Hardavella G, et al. Breathe. September 2019. Oxygen Devices and Delivery Systems. Found on the internet at https://breathe.ersjournals.com/content/15/3/e108

For more information on POCs, the American Lung Association has a webpage with helpful videos showing how to use your device. [4] American Lung Association. Getting started with a portable oxygen concentrator. Found on the internet at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy/getting-started-portable-oxygen-concentrator

Oxygen flow types

Portable oxygen concentrators deliver either a continuous flow of oxygen, measured in liters per minute, or a pulse flow (also called intermittent flow). Pulse flow delivery systems give a puff of oxygen every time you breathe.

Some concentrators can deliver oxygen by both pulse or continuous flow, depending on the setting your doctor prescribes. Other devices only provide one type of flow. Most portable concentrators offer only pulse flow settings.

When buying a portable oxygen machine, it’s important to know which type of flow you need and the amount of oxygen (in LPM) you’re prescribed. If you’re unsure of these details, check with your health care provider.

Who should use a portable oxygen concentrator?

If you need supplemental oxygen—also known as oxygen therapy—you’re not alone. The American Thoracic Society estimates 1.5 million adults in the United States use oxygen therapy. [5] Jacobs SS, et al. Annals of the American Thoracic Society. December 2018. Optimizing Home Oxygen Therapy: An Official American Thoracic Society Workshop Report. Found on the internet at https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/10.1513/AnnalsATS.201809-627WS

People with a variety of conditions may benefit from supplemental oxygen. According to the American Lung Association, these conditions include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, pneumonia, asthma, cystic fibrosis, and sleep apnea . [6] American Lung Association. Oxygen therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy

If you need extra oxygen, you may enjoy the freedom a portable unit can give you. Being able to go out with friends and family, travel, and enjoy activities outside of the house are all possible with POCs.

Staying active and connecting with people is important for our health and well-being. According to a study published in the Journal of Gerontology , socially active older adults have better physical health and emotional well-being. [7] Fingerman KL, et al. The Journals of Gerontology. Jan. 18, 2019. Variety is the Spice of Late Life: Social Integration and Daily Activity. Found on the internet at https://academic.oup.com/psychsocgerontology/article/75/2/377/5292329 A portable oxygen concentrator can help you keep in touch with friends and family by allowing you to leave the house and socialize.

POCs may not suit every person’s oxygen needs. Before you purchase an oxygen machine, talk to your health care provider. They will tell you what type of machine you need and what to look for.

Things to consider before you purchase a portable oxygen machine

Before you purchase a POC, you should consider different factors to decide which model is the best for your needs.

Your current and future oxygen needs: Check your prescription to see what your doctor has written for oxygen amount and flow type. You may also want a machine with an adjustable oxygen output in case your oxygen needs change.
Battery life: Consider how long you’ll need to use your POC when you leave the house or if you plan to go on long trips.
Warranty length and type of coverage: Warranties vary among manufacturers of portable oxygen concentrators, both in terms of length and what they cover. Make sure you find out specific information on the warranty before you purchase.
Size and weight: You may need a small, lightweight machine if you can only carry a few pounds at a time. While most machines come with a carry bag or rolling cart, you may need to move it without the bag or cart from time to time.
Noise level: All POCs create sound as they convert air to medical-grade oxygen. Typically, the noise level is about the same as a room with background noise, around 45-50 decibels. But some oxygen concentrators are quieter than others. For instance, the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort only emits about 38 decibels of sound.
Buying vs. renting: Determining whether you should buy or rent your POC depends on your needs. Those who only temporarily require oxygen therapy or don’t want to deal with maintenance or repair costs may benefit from renting their device. While buying may be the best option for long-term needs.
Cleaning and maintenance: All POCs should be wiped down daily as part of a regular care routine. Some devices need more maintenance than others, requiring regular filter changes or deeper cleaning. Before purchasing, look into your device’s maintenance guidelines to determine if you can keep up with its care.

If you see over-the-counter oxygen concentrators in your search, the American Lung Association warns these machines may not meet your oxygen needs. They are not FDA-approved, don’t require a prescription, and may not fit your specific prescription. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure if the oxygen machine is right for you. [4] American Lung Association. Getting started with a portable oxygen concentrator. Found on the internet at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy/getting-started-portable-oxygen-concentrator

How much do portable oxygen concentrators cost?

In this review, the portable oxygen concentrators range in cost from $2,125–$3,200. This is about the average price range you can expect when purchasing a new POC.

Online retailers, like the Oxygen Concentrator Store, may have financing and “buy now, pay later” options through services like CareCredit , PayPal , or Affirm , allowing you to pay off your purchase over time. Oxygen Concentrator Store pricing estimates shared in this article are subject to change.

You can also reduce the cost by purchasing a used oxygen machine through the Oxygen Concentrator Store. Speak with a customer service representative to find out what used machines are available.

Are portable oxygen concentrators covered by insurance?

Some private insurance companies will pay for part or all of the costs of oxygen concentrators, but plans vary quite a bit. Contact your insurance provider to understand what your plan covers.

Oxygen equipment, including portable oxygen concentrators, is also eligible for reimbursement if you have a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA).

Are portable oxygen concentrators covered by Medicare?

Oxygen concentrators are considered durable medical equipment (DME) ⓘ Durable medical equipment (DME): Medical equipment expected to last at least three years, prescribed for in-home use for a medical reason. , and a rental device may be partially covered under Medicare Part B . Medicare will cover part of the cost of renting in-home oxygen equipment and accessories if you have a prescription from a doctor, a diagnosis of low blood oxygen levels, and other measures to raise your blood oxygen levels were unsuccessful. [8] Medicare.gov. Oxygen equipment and accessories. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/oxygen-equipment-accessories

If you do purchase a portable oxygen concentrator, Medicare will help pay for certain oxygen-related supplies and services such as tubing, masks, nasal cannulas, maintenance, and repairs. See Medicare.gov for more information. [8] Medicare.gov. Oxygen equipment and accessories. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/oxygen-equipment-accessories

Are Amazon portable oxygen concentrators safe?

Portable oxygen concentrators are used to treat medical conditions, so it’s a purchase you should make with a reputable medical supply retailer, not on Amazon. Amazon sellers cannot sell medical-grade oxygen concentrators, both portable and for at-home use, because they can’t sell items requiring a prescription. Doctors stress that it’s unsafe to make this kind of purchase on Amazon. If you’re looking for a portable oxygen concentrator on Amazon to save money, consider a certified pre-owned unit from a reputable retailer instead.

Traveling with portable oxygen machines

Traveling with an oxygen machine requires careful preparation for your health and safety. Below are some tips to keep in mind before you go.

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Table 2, Comparison of the best portable oxygen concentrators

*Last updated August 2024 **Can vary depending on flow setting and use of single- or double-battery

How we chose the best oxygen concentrators

Our Reviews Team consulted with geriatric care experts to learn more about portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) and how they can enhance users’ quality of life. Based on our expert consultations, user survey, and own research, we determined the following factors to be important for our readers when shopping for a POC unit:

Ease of use
Oxygen delivery method
Number of settings
Battery life
Time to recharge battery
Availability (all devices available online or in brick-and-mortar stores)

We had all of our selections medically reviewed by an expert in the field to ensure each brand and model is appropriate for our readers’ needs.

Bottom line

Supplemental oxygen is sometimes necessary to relieve respiratory or cardiac disease symptoms and improve a person’s quality of life. If you need oxygen therapy, it doesn’t mean your normal activities have to end. A portable oxygen concentrator can allow you to move freely around your house, visit friends and family, travel, run errands, or do any other activity you normally do.

If you love traveling and need a device with decent battery life, you may opt for the Inogen Rove 6 or the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort.

POCs can go a long way in helping you continue to enjoy outings with your family and friends. Ultimately, the best portable oxygen concentrator for you depends on your preferences, price point, and specific oxygen needs.

Frequently asked questions

According to the Oxygen Concentrator Store, most portable oxygen concentrators last four to seven years before needing to be replaced. The better you maintain your machine, the longer it will last.

Yes, you need a prescription from your doctor to use and purchase a portable oxygen concentrator. You should not use an oxygen machine if you haven’t received a prescription from your doctor because it may cause serious health effects.

A new portable oxygen concentrator may range from $2,000 to $4,000. The portable oxygen concentrators in this review range from $2,081.52 to $3,200. The cost may be lower if you decide to purchase a used machine.

The most reliable portable oxygen concentrator is the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort because we found it to have the best battery life. Depending on the battery used and the setting chosen, this model lasts between 8 and 16 hours.

A portable oxygen concentrator and a portable oxygen machine are one and the same. Both names describe a device providing oxygen therapy through a concentrated flow of oxygen.

We have found that less expensive oxygen concentrators have fewer features than more expensive options. In general, cheaper machines are also less powerful. Recently, concerns have been raised about machines sold online costing only a few hundred dollars, with the COPD Foundation warning that many of the claims being made by over-the-counter machines were not evaluated by the FDA.

The best portable oxygen concentrator for you depends on your preferences, tolerability, and oxygen needs. Talk to your health care provider about which type of machine to look for.

Portable oxygen concentrators are considered durable medical equipment. If you’re renting a device and you have a prescription from a doctor, a diagnosis of low blood oxygen levels, and other measures to raise your blood oxygen levels weren’t successful, it may be partially covered under Medicare Part B.

If you purchase a portable oxygen concentrator, Medicare will help pay for specific supplies and services, including tubing, masks, nasal cannulas, maintenance, and repairs. Visit Medicare.gov to learn more.

POCs may be available to purchase on Amazon, but doctors advise against it. Amazon sellers can’t sell medical-grade oxygen concentrators, both portable and for at-home use, because they can’t sell items requiring a prescription. If you’re looking for a portable oxygen concentrator on Amazon to save money, consider a certified pre-owned unit from a reputable retailer instead.

Have questions about this review? Email us at [email protected] .

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Pulse oximeters and oxygen concentrators: What to know about at-home oxygen therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/pulse-oximeters-and-oxygen-concentrators-what-know-about-home-oxygen-therapy
International Noise Awareness Day. Common noise levels – how loud is too loud? Found on the internet at https://noiseawareness.org/info-center/common-noise-levels/
Hardavella G, et al. Breathe. September 2019. Oxygen Devices and Delivery Systems. Found on the internet at https://breathe.ersjournals.com/content/15/3/e108
American Lung Association. Getting started with a portable oxygen concentrator. Found on the internet at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy/getting-started-portable-oxygen-concentrator
Jacobs SS, et al. Annals of the American Thoracic Society. December 2018. Optimizing Home Oxygen Therapy: An Official American Thoracic Society Workshop Report. Found on the internet at https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/10.1513/AnnalsATS.201809-627WS
American Lung Association. Oxygen therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy
Fingerman KL, et al. The Journals of Gerontology. Jan. 18, 2019. Variety is the Spice of Late Life: Social Integration and Daily Activity. Found on the internet at https://academic.oup.com/psychsocgerontology/article/75/2/377/5292329
Medicare.gov. Oxygen equipment and accessories. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/oxygen-equipment-accessories
Do Over-The-Counter Portable Oxygen Concentrators Actually Work? The Results of a COPD Foundation Study. COPD Foundation. Found on the internet at: https://www.copdfoundation.org/COPD360social/Community/COPD-Digest/Article/1839/Do-Over-The-Counter-Portable-Oxygen-Concentrators-Actually-Work-The-Results-of.aspx

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Experiential Travel: Creating Memories, Not Checklists

What Is Experiential Travel?

Benefits of Experiential Travel

Examples of Experiential Travel

Planning an Experiential Travel Trip

Top Experiential Travel Companies

Vivid Travel

Niquesa Travel

Black Tomato

Abercrombie & Kent

Current Trends in Experiential Travel

The Future of Experiential Travel

About the Author Anna Timbrook

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The Top 10 Experiential Travel Agencies From Around the Globe

10 Best Experiential Travel Agencies

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7. Cohica

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