The world of travel is constantly evolving, and as a travel agent, it is crucial to stay up-to-date on the latest trends. With Europe being a top destination for travelers, it’s important to understand what’s hot and incorporate these trends into your clients’ itineraries. In this article, we’ll explore the top travel trends in Europe and provide tips on how to seamlessly integrate them into your travel plans.
1. Sustainable tourism
Sustainable tourism has become a buzzword in the travel industry in recent years, and for good reason. As travelers become more environmentally and socially conscious, they are seeking out ways to reduce their carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the destinations they visit. In this section, we will explore some of the top sustainable tourism trends in Europe, and how you can incorporate them into your clients’ itineraries.
Embracing Local Culture and Community
One way of applying sustainable tourism is by embracing local culture through activities such as cooking classes, language lessons, and traditional music and dance performances. Not only do these experiences give travelers a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local culture, but they also provide economic benefits to the community.
Furthermore, supporting local businesses is another way to embrace the local community. By eating at local restaurants, shopping at local markets, and staying in locally-owned accommodations, travelers can help sustain the local economy and promote responsible tourism practices. Many travel agencies now offer itineraries that prioritize local experiences and sustainable tourism practices, making it easier for travelers to incorporate these elements into their trips.
For example, in Portugal, visitors can participate in a “Fado Experience” in Lisbon, which is a traditional Portuguese music genre that expresses the feeling of nostalgia and longing. This experience allows travelers to not only listen to the music but also learn about its history, lyrics, and cultural significance.
Eco-Friendly Accommodation Options
As a tourism professional, it’s important to keep up with the latest travel trends in Europe, and sustainable tourism is definitely one of them. Today’s travelers are becoming more eco-conscious and actively seek out eco-friendly accommodation options. Fortunately, there are many options available, ranging from hotels and resorts to hostels and vacation rentals.
Eco-friendly accommodations prioritize environmental sustainability through various initiatives, such as energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction, and eco-friendly toiletries. As a tourism professional, you can recommend these accommodations to your clients, who may be interested in reducing their carbon footprint while enjoying a comfortable stay.
For example, the Bio Hotels chain in Germany is an excellent choice for eco-friendly accommodation. The chain has 90 hotels across Germany, Austria, and Italy, all of which are certified organic and sustainable. The hotels feature solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, organic toiletries, and furniture made from sustainable materials. By recommending eco-friendly accommodation options, you can help your clients make a positive impact on the environment while enjoying a memorable and sustainable travel experience.
Low-Impact Transportation
This type of tourism also involves low-impact transportation methods that minimize the carbon footprint of travel. This includes promoting the use of public transportation, biking, and walking, as well as encouraging the use of electric vehicles. By reducing the number of vehicles on the road, travelers can enjoy cleaner air and contribute to the preservation of the environment.
As a tourism professional, you can recommend eco-friendly transportation options to your clients, such as bicycle tours, electric car rentals, or train travel. For example, in the Netherlands, biking is a popular and eco-friendly way to explore the country’s beautiful landscapes and cities. By incorporating low-impact transportation into your clients’ itineraries, you can help them minimize their environmental impact and have a more sustainable travel experience.
2. Place to be in Europe
As Europe continues to be a top destination for travelers, there are certain cities and regions that are becoming increasingly popular. From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the scenic countryside of Tuscany, these places are quickly becoming the “place to be” in Europe. In this section, we’ll explore the top destinations that are currently trending among travelers and how you can incorporate them into your clients’ itineraries. We’ll also provide tips on how to make the most of these destinations and avoid the crowds.
Top Trending Destinations in Europe
As a travel professional, staying up to date on the latest trending destinations is crucial for providing your clients with unique and memorable travel experiences. Europe offers a diverse range of destinations, each with its own distinct character and attractions. Here are three top trending destinations in Europe to consider incorporating into your clients’ itineraries:
- Lisbon, Portugal: This vibrant and colorful city has been gaining popularity in recent years for its beautiful architecture, delicious food, and laid-back atmosphere. From exploring the historic Alfama district to enjoying a traditional fado performance, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Lisbon ;
- Dubrovnik, Croatia: Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik is a stunning coastal city with a rich history and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can stroll along the ancient city walls, relax on the beach, or take a boat tour to the nearby islands ;
- Reykjavik, Iceland: This capital city may be small in size, but it packs a big punch when it comes to natural beauty and unique experiences. From chasing the northern lights to bathing in the famous Blue Lagoon, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had in Reykjavik ;
3. Culinary experiences
As travelers become more interested in immersing themselves in local cultures, culinary experiences are becoming increasingly popular. Whether it’s trying out traditional dishes or visiting local wineries, there are endless options for food and wine enthusiasts in Europe.
Explanation of culinary trend
Culinary experiences offer a unique way to explore a destination’s history and culture through its food and drinks. From wine tastings in France to pasta-making classes in Italy, these experiences allow travelers to engage with locals, learn about the ingredients and techniques used in local dishes, and gain a deeper understanding of the culture.
Examples of food and wine experiences in Europe
Europe is renowned for its diverse and rich culinary traditions, and there are countless food and wine experiences to choose from. For example, travelers can explore the vineyards of Tuscany in Italy, sample delicious chocolates in Belgium, or indulge in traditional Spanish tapas in Barcelona.
One particularly popular destination for foodies is France, where visitors can enjoy wine tastings in the vineyards of Burgundy or Bordeaux, sample delicious cheeses in the Loire Valley, or explore the vibrant food markets of Paris. The country is also home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to indulge in high-end dining experiences.
How to incorporate culinary experiences in clients' itineraries
As a travel professional, it’s important to consider your clients’ interests and preferences when planning their itineraries. When incorporating culinary experiences, consider their dietary restrictions, level of interest in food and wine, and preferred travel style. You could suggest a food-focused itinerary that includes visits to local markets, cooking classes, and food and wine tastings.Â
Alternatively, you could suggest incorporating culinary experiences into a broader itinerary that includes cultural attractions and outdoor activities. By tailoring your clients’ itineraries to their interests and preferences, you can create a truly memorable travel experience.
