#Singapore #Trip.com Group #travel trends #culinary tourism

The Future of Travel According to Momentum 2025

As the global travel landscape continues to evolve, Trip.com Group has unveiled its insightful report titled Momentum 2025, presenting a forecast of significant trends influencing the way we travel. This comprehensive analysis is based on feedback from over 6,000 travelers across six Asia-Pacific markets, revealing insights into how technology and cultural shifts are shaping the future of tourism.

Rising Culinary Experiences

Culinary tourism is on the rise, with 60% of Trip.com users actively seeking food-related experiences. The report highlights the growing interest in various culinary adventures, with travelers gravitating towards food festivals (62%), hotel dining experiences (60%), and street food tours (52%). In cities like Tokyo, Paris, and Bangkok, diverse food scenes are enticing urban food lovers, particularly in regions like Hong Kong and Singapore, where street food is a local favorite.

Interestingly, demographics play a role in preferences. Wine and beer tasting appeal significantly to men, while women prefer to engage in hands-on experiences like cooking classes. Meanwhile, millennials show a trend towards interactive food art events, reflecting a demand for immersive cultural experiences. To cater to this trend, the Trip.Gourmet platform connects travelers with over 50,000 restaurants across 300 cities, revolutionizing how we explore destinations through taste.

Media's Impact on Travel Choices

In an era dominated by media influence, 70% of travelers attribute their destination choices to films and television shows. Notably, millennials lead this trend, particularly enjoying romantic comedies and adventure films. In Malaysia, an impressive 91% of respondents acknowledged that media content significantly shaped their travel plans. Popular shows like Emily in Paris and Running Man have sparked an increased interest in destinations portrayed in these productions.

This media influence extends beyond individual countries, with destinations like New Zealand's iconic landscapes and the historical allure of Kyoto becoming popular among travel enthusiasts eager to experience their cinematic dreams.

The Cruise Industry's Resurgence

According to the Momentum 2025 report, cruise tourism is witnessing robust growth, with travelers prioritizing scenic views, onboard dining options, and entertainment offerings. Approximately 44% of travelers value dining experiences during their voyages. Exciting cruise destinations such as Tokyo, Jeju Island, and the Maldives are on the rise, attracting travelers drawn by affordability and luxurious all-inclusive packages.

Entertainment-Driven Travel

With the recent success of events like Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, entertainment travel is emerging as a major motivator in planning trips. In 2024, a substantial 66% of travelers organized their trips around live events, indicating a shift toward incorporating concerts and sports events as central aspects of travel experiences. This trend emphasizes that travelers are not just looking for destinations; they are investing in experiences that combine culture, entertainment, and exploration.

In line with this, sports tourism continues to thrive, driven by high-profile events like the UEFA Euro and growing interest in sports like football, basketball, and Formula 1. The merging of cultural exploration with live sports and concert attendance signifies a new wave of travel where experiences are integral to the journey.

Influence of Social Media on Travel Decisions

The impact of social media, particularly apps like TikTok, has transformed travel decisions, with 45% of travelers influenced by viral content. This trend primarily benefits visually appealing destinations, as travelers seek out