Travelers Shift Focus to Sustainable Experiences Amid Growing Environmental Concerns

Three New Travel Trends Making 2026 Tourism More Sustainable A recent study by Booking.com reveals that a growing number of travelers are opting for more environmentally friendly and culturally immersive experiences, shifting the focus away from overcrowded hotspots. According to the company's latest Travel Predictions report, three emerging trends - "Hushed Hobbies," "Slow Travel," and "Intentional Exploration" - are quietly contributing to a more sustainable tourism industry. Hushed Hobbies: A New Era of Wildlife Observation More than half (52%) of travelers surveyed by Booking.com expressed interest in participating in activities such as moth or butterfly watching, fishing, or birdwatching. This trend, dubbed "Hushed Hobbies," suggests that travelers are increasingly seeking immersive and low-impact experiences that allow them to connect with nature. "We're seeing a shift from the traditional 'Instagrammable' destinations to more subtle and nuanced experiences," said Emese Maczko, travel writer and contributor to Forbes. "Travelers are looking for ways to engage with their surroundings in a more meaningful way." Slow Travel: A Focus on Local Communities Slow travel, which emphasizes taking time to absorb local cultures and communities, is also gaining traction. According to the report, 74% of travelers would consider trying fishing or birdwatching, while 60% are interested in foraging stays. "This trend is not just about slowing down, but also about immersing oneself in local customs and traditions," said Maczko. "Travelers are recognizing that tourism can have a positive impact on communities when done responsibly." Intentional Exploration: A Shift Away from Overcrowding The report also highlights the growing interest in intentional exploration, where travelers prioritize meaningful experiences over mere sightseeing. This trend is driven by a desire to explore destinations in a more thoughtful and responsible manner. "We're seeing a shift away from overcrowded hotspots and towards more off-the-beaten-path destinations," said Maczko. "Travelers are recognizing that their actions have consequences, and they want to make a positive impact on the places they visit." Background and Context The Booking.com report is based on insights from nearly 30,000 travelers across 33 countries. The study highlights the growing importance of sustainability in travel, with many travelers expressing concerns about the environmental and social impacts of tourism. Additional Perspectives While some industry experts welcome these trends as a step towards more sustainable tourism, others caution that they may not be enough to address the scale of the problem. "Sustainability is not just about individual actions, but also about systemic change," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a leading expert on sustainable tourism. "We need to rethink our entire approach to travel and prioritize community-led development and environmental conservation." Current Status and Next Developments As the tourism industry continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether these trends will have a lasting impact on sustainability. However, one thing is clear: travelers are increasingly seeking experiences that align with their values and priorities. "The future of travel is not just about where we go, but also how we get there," said Maczko. "As travelers, we have the power to shape the industry and create positive change." *Reporting by Forbes.*