December 16, 2024 – The travel year 2025 will be all about new ideas, growing sources of inspiration and a noticeable change in vacation planning. MSC Cruises has identified five trends that will fundamentally change the way we choose and experience our travels.
Whether cool nature experiences instead of classic sunny destinations, sabbatical-like breaks characterized by cultural world travel, or culinary voyages of discovery: these developments open up new horizons - for explorers, connoisseurs and all those who are looking for the extraordinary.
MSC Preziosa Baltic Sea
1. Coolcations: Refreshing nature instead of sunny beach
While sunny dream beaches have long been among the most popular destinations, cooler regions are now coming into focus. With mild temperatures, lush forests, impressive fjords and glaciers, these places offer an intense natural experience that refreshes the mind and sharpens the senses. Whether forest bathing in Scandinavia, quiet hikes through Alaska's mountain landscapes or the quiet gliding along Norwegian fjords - the trend is moving towards authentic natural settings far away from mass tourism.
MSC Cruises tip:
Anyone looking for these special moments will find them on MSC Cruises' Northern Europe routes or, from summer 2026, on board the MSC Poesia, which will set sail from Seattle to Alaska for the first time. Cruises with the MSC Euribia to the Norwegian fjords or with the MSC Poesia to the Baltic States also provide a deep insight into fascinating landscapes characterized by the sound of the wind and the scent of pine needles.
2. Radical Sabbaticals: Time out for new perspectives
Flexible working models and the growing acceptance of career breaks are increasing the desire for longer, particularly formative trips. These "radical sabbaticals" offer the chance to reorient one's view of the world and to get to know cultural diversity in all its intensity.
MSC Cruises tip:
The MSC World Cruise is the perfect solution for anyone who wants to explore not just a single destination, but several continents at once - without constantly packing their suitcases. Starting in January 2025 and 2026 (and soon in 2027), this world cruise will open up a unique kaleidoscope of impressions with up to 50 destinations in up to 32 countries. Longer layover times and overnight stays on board allow deep insights into local cultures, historical treasures and spectacular landscapes.
3. Set-Jetting: On the trail of film, series & book
Pop culture is increasingly inspiring our desire to travel. With so-called “set jetting,” it is no longer just the country or city that beckons, but often the setting of a favorite series, a cult film or a famous novel. Who hasn’t dreamed of strolling through the streets that they have only seen on screen?
MSC Cruises tip:
MSC Cruises takes guests there: to Dubrovnik in Croatia, where "Game of Thrones" set new standards, or to the Gulf region to the filming locations of "Mission: Impossible". In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, travelers can feel like they are in an action movie. And those who travel to New York City on the MSC Meraviglia follow in the footsteps of "Sex and the City" icon Carrie Bradshaw - perfect opportunities to make pop culture come true.
4. Culinary Discoveries: Taste the World
For many travelers, culinary delights have long been a main reason for heading to a particular destination. Authentic aromas, unusual flavors and the enjoyment of local specialties really round off the vacation experience. Whether it's a cooking workshop in a traditional olive oil mill in Greece, a trip to a charming Italian winery or a tapas tour in Alicante - traveling with all the senses is the trend.
MSC Cruises tip:
MSC Cruises takes gourmets to culinary hotspots around the globe, from Naples to Barcelona to Buenos Aires. On board, up to eleven restaurants tempt guests with delicacies from all over the world. How about exquisite Italian cuisine in the only Eataly restaurant at sea, Japanese specialties at Kaito Sushi or innovative creations by Swedish chef Niklas Ekstedt in the Chef's Garden Kitchen on the MSC World Europa? Here, every meal becomes a culinary adventure.
5. All-inclusive redefined: exclusivity meets comfort
All-inclusive holidays are convenient and easy – but more and more travellers want a more exclusive experience that stands out from the crowd. They are willing to invest more for a higher level of service and privacy. Quality, atmosphere and individuality are becoming more important.
MSC Cruises tip:
The MSC Yacht Club sets new standards for all-inclusive travel. The "ship within a ship" concept offers a private area with its own restaurant, lounge, sun deck, 24-hour butler service and first-class inclusive services such as premium drink packages and unlimited WiFi. On Ocean Cay, MSC Cruises' private island in the Caribbean, Yacht Club guests also enjoy exclusive access to the Ocean House with private beach, restaurant and individual service. A travel experience that redefines luxury.
Conclusion
The travel trends for 2025 reflect the longing for authentic experiences, cultural encounters and sensual discoveries. Whether immersing yourself in cool natural destinations, exploring global cuisine, tracking down famous film locations or enjoying exclusive all-inclusive offers - MSC Cruises opens up completely new perspectives for its guests. This means that the upcoming trip will not just be a vacation, but a formative experience that will be remembered for a long time.