December 19, 2023: The leading digital travel platform’s  travel predictions research  foresees travel as the primal pulse of life in the year ahead
As 2023 enters its final months and 2024 optimistically appears on the horizon, numbness and detachment loom as a result of the perma-crisis, including increased cost-of-living and climate change concerns. People around the world have emotionally checked out of the news agenda and events at home in order to take a much-needed  breather.
Where in years past travel has been a means to escape life, Booking.com is releasing research that shows that travel is life in 2024 with more than three quarters (78%) revealing that they feel more alive than ever when they are on vacation, and 68% wanting to be more like their vacation self in their day-to-day life back home. That’s because 68% also think they are the best version of themselves while on vacation. And with AI set to transform 2024, travelers are increasingly plugging into tech to do the grunt work, freeing them up to stretch their imagination, tune into their intuition and spark more soul-stirring experiences.
To explore how travel will transport people out of autopilot and into unleashing their best life, Booking.com commissioned research among more than 27,000 travelers across 33 countries and territories, combining it with its insights as a leading digital travel platform to reveal seven predictions for travel in 2024. 
We’ll (re)invent ourselves
You've heard the phrase "new year, new me," right? It may be a cliché, but now it’s more relevant than ever. A whopping 68% of travelers believe they transform into the best version of themselves while roaming, but which version of themselves do they choose to showcase?
We’ll dive into retreats and cooler waters
With the warmer weather, over a third of travelers (36%) are looking to water-centric getaways. 75% of travelers find instant relaxation by the water's edge. Turning to sanctuaries rather than riverbanks for solace, 20% of travelers are curious about health retreats, while 14% are interested in psychedelic retreats. In general, 18% are looking to deepen their connection with themselves. For some, a quiet night's sleep is the priority, enticing 58% toward sleep-focused retreats, while 48% express intrigue in tantra retreats, wanting a deeper physical connection with their partners.
We’ll surrender to the unknown
52% of travelers want to book trips where the destination remains a mystery until they arrive. Seeking an escape from the everyday, 56% are inclined to go off the beaten path, and 34% are willing to travel with strangers. We’ll also see a noticeable shift from planning to spontaneity. A majority (55%) prefer to embark on their journeys without set plans, while two thirds (69%) opt for loose itineraries, allowing them to adapt as they go.
We’ll savor fresh and familiar tastes
When it comes to culinary adventures, 78% of travelers hunger for fresh flavors over the tried and true. Half are planning their trips around specific restaurants or dishes, with 61% prioritizing learning about the origins of a destination's iconic dish. Tech is also reshaping how we enjoy food, with 46% seeking immersive "phygital" (physical plus digital) dining via VR or AR. While 63% are fascinated by innovative plant-based options like 3D-printed vegan steaks and mushroom "foie gras."
We’ll enhance our relationship
In 2024, travel will see a profound transformation driven by a collective thirst for deeper connections and self-discovery. 24% of travelers want to strengthen their bonds with their partners. Travel will rekindle relationships and ignite new romances: 39% seek matchmaking trips, while 35% hope to heal heartbreak overseas.
We'll prioritize affordable luxury
Travelers will balance budget constraints and luxury cravings. 47% may take children out of school for off-peak travel, and 46% plan to reduce tips. 50% plan to pay for trips with credit cards to help spread out the cost. 39% of pet owners would bring their pets along to cut pet-sitting costs.
We'll choose sustainability and hidden gems
The world of travel is poised for a sustainable makeover. Over half (53%) of travelers are seeking accommodations that blend comfort with innovative sustainability features. They crave the serenity of nature indoors, with 65% wanting green spaces and plants in their stays. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it's a lifestyle. 
Full details here: Seven Predictions for Travel in 2024