How the pandemic has changed travel trends as we know them

It’s not surprising that travelling not only looks different in the post-pandemic world but is only set to change even more shortly. Months spent in isolation has amplified our wanderlust while lockdown has sent the travel industry into turmoil. Here, we are looking well beyond the summer and analysing how the pandemic will permanently change the way we travel.

Travellers’ aversion to mass tourism is noticeably compelling the industry to move towards staycations, once in a lifetime adventures and isolation escapes.

The Wonders of Staycation 

Due to the pandemic, we all had slowed down and look at what is on our doorstep. Insignia members based in the United Kingdom had the pleasure of discovering culture, coastline, conservation parks and countryside. In contrast, US-based members have a wealth of local road trip options.

Staying local is an excellent alternative to travelling abroad and allows us to experience some semblance of adventure without putting our health (and those we love) at risk. 

For those in the UK, we recommend the Monkey Island Estate in the historic village of Bray, Berkshire. The luxury hotel has added six private residences to their accommodation options making for the perfect hideaway for families or groups looking to reconnect.

Travelling with Purpose

Back in 2019, the Louvre made headlines when museum workers walked out on their jobs, arguing that overcrowding made the site dangerous and unmanageable. This is just one example of over-tourism. Other destinations have faced similar issues, such as Mount Everest, the Great Barrier Reef, and California’s poppy fields.

In the aftermath of the pandemic, we are seeking to escape to historically less popular — and therefore, less populated destinations. Additionally, ethical travel options have become popular this year. Travellers are more conscious of the wellbeing of locals in communities hard hit by a loss of tourism or in a less affluent destination. 

Recently, we have noticed a surge in booking safari experiences that don’t just approach conservation in the best way possible but have also set a benchmark using their ‘theory of change’ scheme.

Mahali Mzuri, located in the world-famous Maasai Mara ecosystem and right in the path of the annual Great Migration, has introduced a scheme that will change local lives and revolutionise the safari experience. 

Those are the type of hosts we should be seeking out and supporting.

Escapes to the Wilderness are Vital to the Post-Pandemic Recovery

In line with travelling both locally and with purpose, nature breaks are rocketing in popularity. After time spent at home, we are all eager for fresh air and wide-open spaces, somewhere beautiful we can stretch our legs. 

Outdoor activities such as camping or glamping have surged in popularity while more remote locations are adapting to pandemic guidelines, for example, the Amangiri. A 600-acre resort in southern Utah where staff are trained to perform spa treatments while wearing masks and gloves.

Moreover, spending time in nature is good for mental health and stress relief, physical wellness and development in childhood.  As a result,

travellers will likely appreciate the importance of good health more than before, looking to travel to places where they can fully rejuvenate. 

Spas have been quick to launch immune-supporting programmes to help protect against the virus. Palace Merano’s new wellness-focused package includes IV infusions of vitamin C, glutathione and moxibustion. It has also added acupressure massages, reflexology, and ozone treatments to its roster. 

Isolation Holidays 

2020 is the year when we are more likely to escape to locations that make us feel safe and happy. Despite being in isolation for so long, most people are not rushing back to busy, built-up spaces. Private villas, boats and boutique hotels are in demand more than ever before—ditto rural coastal, lakeside and mountainous locations. 

Since July, Insignia members have been booking hotels that provide the perfect combination of exclusivity and service. Hotels like Aman and Four Seasons. Premium properties where you can be waited upon by butlers or enjoy private pools away from other guests.