Faith Adiele, a travel writer and founder of the 'Traveling While BIPOC' workshop, shares her insights on meaningful travel and transformative experiences. Amy Virshup from The New York Times discusses budget-friendly destinations and the impact of set jetting on travel trends. Billie Cohen, editorial director of Afar, highlights the importance of cultural immersion and explores emerging destinations like Georgia and the Caucasus. Together, they encourage listeners to embrace sustainability, slow travel, and personal journeys in 2025.
The travel industry is witnessing a resurgence driven by post-pandemic wanderlust, despite increasing awareness of climate change and overtourism impacts.
Travel experts emphasize exploring less touristy destinations for rich cultural experiences, promoting sustainable practices alongside the thrill of adventure.
Deep dives
The Resurgence of Travel Post-Pandemic
Travel has seen a remarkable comeback following the pandemic, with many individuals eager to explore both familiar and new destinations. Despite the surge in travel, there is a growing consciousness regarding the environmental impact associated with it. Travelers are balancing the desire to expand their horizons with the need to minimize their carbon footprints. This cultural shift is prompting discussions about sustainable travel practices and the importance of responsible tourism.
Transformative Travel Experiences
Travel experts shared their most transformative experiences from the previous year, emphasizing the unexpected joys of exploring local gems rather than just famous sites. For example, one contributor discovered the beauty of northern Minnesota, where stunning fall colors and scenic hikes offered a refreshing getaway that was not highly populated with tourists. Another recounts a trip to Vermont for a solar eclipse, highlighting the profound connection with nature and the universe that such events can inspire. Others discussed immersing themselves in local cultures, such as a writer traveling through Morocco to deepen their understanding of diverse communities and traditions.
The Value of Local and Unique Travel
The conversation highlighted the significance of seeking out less touristy destinations that offer rich cultural experiences. For instance, traveling to less-known locations such as Mongolia has become increasingly appealing due to its unique culture and breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, there is a burgeoning trend of 'set jetting,' where travelers seek to visit places featured in popular television shows, driving interest in specific regions. This focus on unique and diverse travel experiences encourages consumers to explore beyond the conventional popular destinations.
Navigating Travel Challenges and Trends
With the resurgence of travel comes the return of challenges such as long lines, lost luggage, and delayed flights, which can test travelers' patience. Experts suggest cultivating a mindset of adaptability and looking for alternative activities during delays, such as reading or engaging with fellow travelers. The ongoing shifts in the travel landscape have reignited interest in the role of travel agents, who can help navigate complexities and assist with emergency situations. This renewed focus on human connection in travel is invigorating the industry, encouraging a balance of digital and personal travel experiences.
Last year, visitors flocked to the path of the solar eclipse, packed up to visit national parks and headed abroad. While climate change and overtouristing are impacting travel, post-COVID wanderlust shows no sign of abating in 2025. Maybe it will be a trip to Belgrade, Benin or the Bold Coast of Maine. We talk to travel experts about places we’ve been and where we should go in the new year. What’s on your travel bucket list?
Guests:
Faith Adiele, Oakland-based travel writer; author of “Meeting Faith: The Forest Journals of a Black Buddhist Nun”; founder of the “Traveling While BIPOC” writing workshop, for writers who are Black, Indigenous and people of color. Her recent work is featured in "Go Girl 2: The Black Woman's Book of Travel and Adventure".
Amy Virshup, travel editor, The New York Times
Billie Cohen, editorial director, Afar magazine
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