TOP 5 TRAVEL TRENDS
The way we see the world is always changing. From foraging to film sets, we bring you the key trends shaping how we’ll travel in 2024 and beyond
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MEMORIES MATTER MOST
We’ve all heard of the bucket-list holiday; now travellers are taking new experiences to the next level and seeking to immerse themselves as deeply as possible into the local culture and customs of their destination. American Express Travel’s latest Global Travel Trends Report reveals that 89% of their respondents want to explore off-the-beaten-track spots rather than the popular tourist destinations, shop in more authentic places, and support host communities wherever possible. P&O Cruises takes you to iconic destinations but we’re always adding lesser-known gems to our itineraries, and we love to support local industry – from glassblowers in Cabo St Lucas, Mexico, to shoemakers in Aurland, Norway.
Aurlandsfjord, Norway
TOP 5 TRAVEL TRENDS
The way we see the world is always changing. From foraging to film sets, we bring you the key trends shaping how we’ll travel in 2024 and beyond
1
MEMORIES MATTER MOST
We’ve all heard of the bucket-list holiday; now travellers are taking new experiences to the next level and seeking to immerse themselves as deeply as possible into the local culture and customs of their destination. American Express Travel’s latest Global Travel Trends Report reveals that 89% of their respondents want to explore off-the-beaten-track spots rather than the popular tourist destinations, shop in more authentic places, and support host communities wherever possible. P&O Cruises takes you to iconic destinations but we’re always adding lesser-known gems to our itineraries, and we love to support local industry – from glassblowers in Cabo St Lucas, Mexico, to shoemakers in Aurland, Norway.
Aurlandsfjord, Norway
The Retreat, Britannia
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WELLNESS TRAVEL
Personal wellbeing is having more than a moment. Since the pandemic there’s been a cultural shift and, for many, health and happiness has become a priority. Travellers don’t want to leave their healthy habits at home when they head abroad: a report by the Global Wellness Institute predicts wellness tourism will grow 21% through 2025, reflecting ‘a quest for nature, sustainability, mental wellness’. If you’re looking to feel more empowered by your wellbeing or improve your lifestyle, join TV presenter Cherry Healey and stylist Kat Farmer for three Wellbeing and Lifestyle cruises* in 2024. They’ll host masterclasses, with workshop topics ranging from mind and body to wardrobe essentials.
*Travel dates for our wellbeing and lifestyle experts may be subject to change without notice. Wellbeing and lifestyle masterclasses are subject to availability. Additional charges apply
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SET-JETTING
If you’ve ever seen a destination on screen that’s inspired a sense of wanderlust, you’re not alone. According to the American Express 2023 Global Travel Trends Report, 75% of respondents have been inspired by social media to travel to a specific destination, and 64% after seeing it featured on a TV show, news source or movie. Fans of TV’s White Lotus can explore the gorgeous hilltop town of Taormina in Sicily on a cruise to Messina. Game of Thrones devotees will find the fictional King’s Landing in Dubrovnik, while Seville’s Plaza de España has a starring role in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones.
Plaza de España, Seville (from Cádiz), Spain
The Reef children’s club, Iona
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PLAYTIME FOR KIDS
Holidays are a great opportunity for families to bond while also giving children the chance to play, have new experiences and forge independence. So it’s no surprise that when it comes to travel, a report by Mintel states parents look increasingly to holiday spaces to provide ‘an experience of “safe freedom” and active discovery’.
Our family-friendly ships Arvia, Azura, Britannia, Iona and Ventura cater to the younger demographic through activities and facilities that allow them to meet new friends and have fun in a safe environment. And, of course, there is plenty of entertainment outside the children’s clubs for you to enjoy together as a family.
Chilli Salt Watermelon and Cucumber Ceviche
Sardinian-style Yellowfin Tuna Steak
Coastal Lamb
Food Heroes Kjartan Skjelde, Shivi Ramoutar and José Pizarro
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Chilli Salt Watermelon and Cucumber Ceviche; Sardinian-style Yellowfin Tuna Steak; Food Heroes Kjartan Skjelde, Shivi Ramoutar and José Pizarro; Coastal Lamb
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A TASTE OF WHAT’S TO COME
Food tourism is on the menu for 2024. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the culinary tourism market is expected to be worth $1,796.5 billion by 2027, with travellers targeting destinations with the most exciting food scenes and seeking out unique culinary experiences, such as cooking classes with local chefs, foraging with experts and shopping in farmers’ markets for authentic flavours. Get a taste on board in the company of our Local Food Heroes. Acclaimed Spanish chef José Pizarro brings his talents to Arvia and Iona with his bespoke tapas menus for The Glass House and street-food-style dishes for Taste 360. On Iona’s Norway cruises, Stavanger-born-and-bred Kjartan Skjelde has developed a six-course tasting menu for Epicurean that showcases Nordic flavours; on Arvia, look out for queen of contemporary Caribbean cooking Shivi Ramoutar’s vibrant dishes at The Beach House.
Search and book holidays at www.pocruises.com or call us on 0333 300 0108*
*Local call charges apply
