As one of the world's largest and fastest-growing industries, the world of travel has evolved significantly, showing no signs of slowing down in the years to come. People will always pursue travel in new and exciting ways as the industry adapts to cater to those who wish to see the world differently. Whether you're planning a road trip, looking for car hire services, or exploring luxury travel options, these trends offer something for everyone.
Below are the latest international travel trends happening around the world in 2018:
1. Sustainable Tourism
Sustainable tourism is defined by UNESCO as "tourism that respects local people, the traveller, cultural heritage, and the environment." One of the most common forms of sustainable tourism is ecotourism, which seeks to promote a positive nature experience while minimizing impact on the environment and increasing environmental and cultural awareness. If you’re renting a car, consider eco-friendly vehicles for your journey.
2. Adventure Holidays
More and more travellers are becoming thrill-seekers, combining nature, culture, and adventure activities on their holidays. Travellers attach more value to experiences than material matters, driving a bucket list with more heart-pounding activities like diving with sharks, trekking through the jungle, or bungee jumping off the highest bridge. When planning your adventure travel, choose a 4x4 rental for rugged terrains.
3. Solo Travel
A prominent trend is the idea of solo travel. Going on an adventure alone offers incredible opportunities to embrace experiences more personally, leave your comfort zone, make friends along the way, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. For solo travellers, compact car rentals offer both convenience and affordability.
4. Heritage Holidays
A growing travel trend is exploring countries and their cultural heritage—traveling to experience places, artifacts, and activities that represent stories and people of the past. Heritage tours include cultural, natural, and historic resources. To make the most of your journey, consider car hire options that allow you to explore at your own pace.
5. Multigenerational Travel
For those who don't yearn for traveling alone, many travellers plan all-encompassing trips to destinations that have something for everyone—from kids to teenagers to parents and grandparents. Travel is no longer just about the destination, but also about the people with whom memories are made. Passenger van rentals are perfect for accommodating larger groups on your family adventures.
6. Glamping
Many travel to explore the wonders of Mother Nature, but few are happy sleeping on the floor. Glamping combines the outdoors with modern conveniences, ensuring travellers can enjoy unique parts of the world without sacrificing creature comforts. Venturing into the wilderness and sleeping in luxury tents is becoming hugely popular. With luxury car rentals, you can travel to your glamping site in style.
7. Voluntourism
An increasing trend in travel is to give back to the world—collecting good karma along the journey. The idea of volunteer tourism seeks to contribute to the sustainable development of the places travellers visit. Travellers engage in meaningful activities all the while exploring their holiday destinations. Consider budget car hire to make your voluntourism trip affordable and efficient.
8. Wellness Holidays
With the emergence of more resorts offering guests everything from spa treatments to yoga, more travellers pursue destinations and activities that promote health and wellness. Silence and relaxation reduce stress and boost happiness, driving the rise in travelling for wellness. Whether you’re headed to a wellness retreat or a spa resort, reliable car hire ensures a seamless journey.
9. Travelling with Locals
Many travellers place importance on finding accommodation, particularly guesthouses, with a host that has a great deal of local knowledge. Learning from a local, travellers experience their destinations in their purest form—finding the best deals, the finest restaurants, and lesser-known attractions. Opt for economy car hire to explore local gems and hidden treasures.
10. Nostalgic Destinations
In addition to wanting new experiences, many travellers want to relive childhood memories and return to favorite family destinations. The popularity of nostalgic destinations is driven by precious memories and wanting to see these places from another perspective. With family car hire, you can revisit these cherished spots comfortably.
Love to travel? Take a look at the First Car Rental Travel Guides and plan your discovery of South Africa today with our range of affordable car rental options!
