Dear Travelers and Friends,
As we step into the new year, I wanted to share a New Year’s message, reflecting on the unforgettable travel moments of 2024, while also giving you a glimpse into what I foresee for 2025.
A Year in Review: 2024 in Travel
Looking back at 2024, I’ve been fortunate to “virtually” travel the world planning and booking your travels. Whether by land, sea, or river, the destinations you explored spanned the globe. From the awe-inspiring Panama Canal to the majestic Danube, Rhine, and Rhône rivers, to the sunny shores of Bali, Belize, Mexico and the Galapagos Islands, exotic Japan & Turkey, majestic Switzerland and many other countries in Europe – what a year it has been!
I personally had the pleasure of discovering new places and revisiting old favorites. I traveled to Colombia & Belize for the first time, returned to the beautiful nature of Costa Rica, and sailed through the south of France on a river cruise. I also participated in two educational trips: one to Finland and Estonia in October, and another in November to experience the magical Christmas markets of Germany and Austria. It’s been a year full of learning, exploration, and connection!
Travel Trends in 2024: What I’ve Seen and Heard
Every year brings new trends and shifts in the travel landscape. Here’s what I observed in 2024:
1. Air Travel: Thankfully, international air travel has started to stabilize after the disruptions of previous years. While schedule changes are still common, fewer travelers faced the baggage issues and chaos of 2023. A positive sign for the year ahead!
2. Small Group Travel: This trend continues to thrive. Post-pandemic, there are more options than ever for small group tours. It’s easier to forge connections with fellow travelers, engage with guides, and experience local cultures in a more intimate setting.
3. Solo Travel: An interesting trend is the rise of solo travel. After years of uncertainty, many are opting to travel regardless of having a companion or not. Whether it’s due to changing life circumstances or simply the desire to explore independently, solo travelers are in good company. Many tour companies and now, even some river cruise lines, offer itineraries with no single supplement, making it more accessible than ever.
4. Rising Travel Costs: On the flip side, one trend that’s hard to ignore is the increasing costs of travel. With rising global expenses, travel prices have gone up across the board. While the desire to travel remains strong, it’s clear that planning ahead giving more control over budget is more important than ever.
Gazing Ahead: What 2025 Holds for Travelers
So, what can we expect from the year ahead? Here are a few predictions and my advice for the year ahead.
1. Less-Visited Destinations: In 2025, I’m encouraging travelers to venture off the beaten path. My recent trip to Finland and Estonia was a delightful reminder of how rewarding these lesser-visited places can be. Not only are they less crowded, but they also offer a more authentic experience, where your visit is genuinely appreciated. Plus, in many cases, these destinations can be more affordable.
2. Advance Planning: Gone are the days of last-minute steals. For international travel, especially, it’s wise to book well in advance. I’ve seen firsthand how prices for flights, hotels, and cruises tend to rise as the departure date gets closer. Early planning is the key to securing early booking promotions, the best rates and the smoothest experience.
3. Wellness & Immersive: Interest and availability of wellness focused vacations ae more in demand and prevalent. A perfect combination of relaxation + activies that align with your interests. One travel company I work with just launched an option called G-Luxe – adventures by day with a lovely soft landing in luxe accommodation by night. Immersive or community based travel is more available to offer local living options and connect and contribute to the local community you are visiting.
4. Rivers & Rails: River cruises will continue to be in demand. With accommodation and transportation taken care of, fine dining and well curated itineraries, travelers can slow down and appreciate the landscapes and hidden gems along the way. Rail journeys, with multiple day itineraries, are a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. These started with the perfectly on time Switzerland rail journeys but options are expanding to many other destinations.
What will I be up to in 2025
I continue to enjoy and specialize in international destinations like Europe, South America and Asia. River cruises and small group touring are the bulk of the work I do. I do have some loyal ocean cruise travelers so keep up on this as well. I really enjoy organizing specialty small groups – families or friends that may be celebrating a special occasion, or groups that travel together connected by a common interest. My own travel plans include a vacation in the latter part of February to Huatulco and an adventure to Norway in June which will include an expedition cruise and a rail journey. I plan to enjoy sunny Alberta in the summer, and as for fall “so many options"😊
To Conclude: Let’s Make 2025 an Epic Year of Travel
As we enter 2025, I look forward to continuing this journey with all of you—whether it’s through exploring new places, connecting with different cultures, or simply sharing the love of travel. Thank you for being part of my 2024, and here’s to another year of discovery, adventure, and unforgettable moments.
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and adventurous 2025!
Warmly,
Joyce
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