MUMBAI: As the world slowly recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the travel industry is preparing for a new normal in 2023. Here are five key trends to watch out for:

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1. Increased focus on experiences

Travelers in 2023 are expected to prioritize unique and enriching experiences at their destinations. This could include things like cultural workshops, outdoor adventures, and immersive tours. For example, travelers may opt for a cooking class with a local chef to learn about the destination's cuisine, or a guided hike through a national park to learn about the local flora and fauna. These types of experiences allow travelers to connect with the local community and truly immerse themselves in the destination, rather than just visiting tourist attractions.

2. Rise of women travelers

The trend of bleisure travel, combining business and leisure for mini vacations during professional trips, is expected to continue in 2023, particularly among women. As more women enter the workforce and take on leadership roles, they are also taking advantage of business trips to explore new destinations and take some time for themselves. This trend is expected to lead to an increase in solo female travelers and women-led travel groups. For example, a group of women may go on a business trip together and extend their stay for a few extra days to explore the destination together.

3. Corporate travel and mass bookings

Companies are prioritizing employee welfare and team building, leading to an increase in corporate travel and mass bookings for group experiences. This could include team-building retreats, conference trips, and incentive travel programs. Companies are also looking for ways to incorporate wellness and sustainability into their corporate travel plans, choosing destinations and activities that prioritize these values. For example, a company may plan a team-building retreat at a sustainable resort that offers yoga and meditation classes, or a conference trip to a destination with a strong sustainability focus.

4. Prior planning and clubbed holidays

In an increasingly unpredictable world, travelers are looking for ways to ensure a stress-free trip. This includes booking travel and accommodations far in advance, as well as looking for ways to combine their vacations with weekends and national holidays. Clubbing holidays, or combining vacation time with public holidays, allows travelers to extend their break without using up all their annual leave. For example, if a national holiday falls on a Tuesday, a traveler may take off Monday and Wednesday as well, creating a four-day weekend. This trend is expected to continue in 2023, as people look for ways to make the most of their time off.

5. Workcations 

The trend of combining work and vacation, or "workcations," is expected to continue in 2023. This trend is particularly popular among remote workers and digital nomads, who can take advantage of the freedom and flexibility of remote work to explore new destinations. Domestic travel is expected to be a popular choice for workcations, as people look for ways to escape the city and enjoy some downtime in a more relaxed setting. By combining work and vacation, travelers can improve their workplace efficiency and get some much-needed rest and relaxation. For example, a remote worker may plan a workcation at a quiet beach town where they can work during the day and relax on the beach in the evenings.

Overall, 2023 is shaping up to be a year of innovation and adaptability in the travel industry. From an increased focus on experiences to the rise of women travelers and the trend of workcations, it's clear that people are looking for new ways to travel and explore the world. As the world recovers from the pandemic, the travel industry is expected to continue to evolve and meet the changing needs of travelers.

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Credits - India Times

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