Philip Jenkins of Morocco is an entrepreneur and world traveler. In the following article, Philip Jenkins discusses how the world has changed following the pandemic, and what the new world of traveling looks like in 2023 and beyond.
The world has opened up again to travel, but it’s not quite what it once was.
Despite pandemic restrictions loosening considerably, Philip Jenkins of Morocco explains that several countries still have ongoing regulations ranging from proof of vaccination to required testing and mask use.
Still, travel — especially international travel — has bounced back almost fully from the COVID-19 era. By December 2022, overall spending on travel reached $97 billion for Americans alone.
Jenkins reports that higher costs do not seem to temper the urge to travel as well. In 2022, travelers spent over 25% more than in pre-pandemic years. On average, Millennials spent around 40% more on travel than they did in 2019.
There are other “rules” developing, too. Many travelers are moving from destinations mostly featuring indoor attractions (museums, shopping) to the great outdoors, especially National Parks, international coastlines, and rainforest experiences.
Tourism and travel experts expect more growth in 2023. Philip Jenkins of Morocco discusses more below on what to expect when exploring this year.
Different Modes of Transportation
Cars and airplanes have long been the most popular way to get to and around travel destinations. But that is changing.
Philip Jenkins of Morocco says that driven in part by rising prices and concern over climate change, many travelers in 2023 aim to lower their carbon footprints. Often this means traveling closer to home, but it also includes less impactful experiences such as biking or camping.
Travelers are also expected to utilize public transportation more often during their trips, as well as map out walking routes or train and bus options to get around.
Integrating Remote Work
Yes, a vacation is supposed to be a break from work, but with a large number of employers now welcoming flexibility in working from home, Philip Jenkins reports that travelers have started to combine business with pleasure on vacation.
Often, that means traveling for two weeks, but working remotely for one of those weeks in order to cut down on the number of vacation hours used.
Focus on Wellness
So-called wellness tourism is a travel trend that appears to have staying power. In 2019, spending on travel centered on wellness — improving both physical and mental health — reached an all-time high of $720 billion.
Philip Jenkins of Morocco says that despite falling in 2020 and 2021, wellness tourism spending is up again, reaching $817 billion in 2022. By 2025, it’s estimated that the wellness travel market will be worth $1.3 trillion.
Popular wellness travel options for 2023 include structured mindfulness retreats and trips centered on getting in touch with one’s spirituality. Spas and hot springs resorts continue to attract tourists as well, with such destinations as Alba Thermal Springs and Spa and Metung Hot Springs both easing restrictions in late 2022.
Living Like a Local
Destinations like theme parks (Disney World) and iconic locales (Times Square) are still popular, but a large number of travelers, especially those belonging to younger generations, are now prioritizing vacations that are a bit more lowkey.
This “travel like a local” movement includes everything from staying in a neighborhood home rental as opposed to a hotel to finding off-the-beaten-path experiences guided by locals, such as remote hikes or cooking classes.
Philip Jenkins reports that travelers in 2023 are seeking something truly unique — and experiences that support local families, independent tour guides, and small businesses.
Trying Exotic Locales
And that doesn’t necessarily mean visiting a beach resort area or a remote island. In the search for unique vacations, many are turning to places that have long been off the tourism radar.
These spots, according to Travel and Leisure, include Cuba (travel restrictions to the island eased in summer 2022), the breathtaking Lakes Region of Turkey, and France’s Jura region, which offers distinctive wineries and cheese trails. Bon Appetit!
Reliance on Travel Apps
Philip Jenkins says that during an unstable world economy (and inflation period in the United States), tourists are using travel apps not just to plan vacations but for guidance on how to pay for them.
Budget-conscious travelers around the world are utilizing apps that can track expenses, find discounts, and break down spending by category. It’s especially helpful for travelers operating on a very strict trip budget.
Some apps, such as Trip Expense Manager, allow groups of travelers to monitor expenses together, with such features as marking who paid certain restaurant bills at each point on the trip.
