From floating eco-hotels to off-grid retreats, travel in 2025 is redefining adventure like never before.

‍

Travel trends evolve each year, but 2025 is bringing some of the most transformative changes yet. More than ever, travelers are prioritizing sustainability, craving personalized experiences, and seeking deeper connections with the places they visit.

‍
Just last year, a corporate jetsetter swapped her usual beach resort getaway for guided treks with local conservationists in Costa Rica.. She stayed in a solar-powered boutique hotel deep in the rainforest, where her morning yoga sessions were guided by an AI instructor. By the end of the trip, she felt deeply connected to the place and its people.

‍

A dream come true, right? But what’s fueling these shifts?

‍

In this article, we explore seven must-know travel trends defining 2025, from slow travel and off-the-beaten-path destinations to supersonic travel.

‍

1. Sustainable and Responsible Travel

More and more people are choosing ethical travel options, prioritizing eco-friendly tourism and sustainable accommodations. They want an agency that promotes sustainable tourism practices and promotes eco-conscious accommodations.

One of the biggest shifts? Carbon offset initiatives. Airlines and tour companies now offer travelers the option to counterbalance their carbon footprint by investing in reforestation projects or renewable energy.

Booking platforms like Ecobnb and Fairbnb are making it easier to find sustainable stays. Destinations with eco-certifications—like Costa Rica’s Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) and the Green Globe certification—are seeing a surge in eco-conscious visitors.

‍

‍

2. Immersive and Meaningful Travel Experience

Travelers are no longer content with just ticking landmarks off a list. Instead, they seek a hands-on experiences that allow them to connect deeply with cultures, traditions, and local communities.

‍

Take Alex, for example. On his last trip to Italy, instead of simply visiting famous attractions, he enrolled in a traditional cooking class in a small Tuscan village. He learned how to hand-roll fresh pasta, pick the perfect herbs, and create sauces from scratch. By the end of the class, he wasn’t just eating authentic Italian food; he was experiencing it in a way that made it unforgettable.

‍

Across the world, tour operators recognize this demand and now offer itineraries that go beyond sightseeing. They curate experiences that leave a lasting impact—not just on the traveler but on the communities they visit.
‍

‍

‍3. The Growth of Solo Travel

Solo travel is booming, particularly because it prioritizes wellness and mental health tourism.

A global survey by Klook found that 76% of respondents have either traveled solo or are considering it. This highlights the growing interest in a solo journey, which encourages slow and mindful travel.

For millennials, Gen Z, and female travelers, solo travel is a journey of self-discovery, pushing themselves out of their comfort zones and fostering confidence and independence. 

‍

Recognizing this shift, the travel industry is adapting to cater to solo explorers. Hotels are offering more single-occupancy deals and communal spaces designed for solo travelers to connect. Tour operators create small-group experiences for solo adventurers. Airlines are also joining the trend by offering flexible ticket options.

‍

4. Multi-Generational Vacations

More families are prioritizing multi-generational trips that bring grandparents, parents, and kids together for shared adventures. These trips create lasting memories, allowing families to reconnect despite busy schedules and long distances.

Accessibility-friendly travel options make reunion trips more achievable for large families. Mobility accommodations and guided tours designed for all ages ensure that no family member is left behind.

For example, after years of celebrating holidays apart, the Martinez family decided to reunite for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan. Their itinerary blended traditional tea ceremonies for the grandparents, interactive samurai sword lessons for the kids, and foodie adventures in Tokyo for the parents.
‍

‍

‍5. Outdoor and Adventure Travel

Yes, the travel sector continues to integrate virtual and augmented reality experiences and even explores the possibility of space tourism. But for many travelers, the call of the wild has never been stronger.

More people are seeking outdoor experiences that promote stress relief, wellness, and a deeper connection with nature—and with good reason. 

‍

Studies show that just 20 minutes with nature can help to relieve stress. Now, imagine what a 5-day outdoor itinerary can do to your mental health.

The outdoor travel sector adapts to changing traveler preferences and has responded with innovative offerings to cater to these demands.

A few examples are glamping resorts that blend comfort with adventure, sustainable guided tours through remote landscapes, and high-tech gear rentals that make outdoor exploration more accessible than ever.
‍

‍

‍6. Luxury Travel Trends

Today’s high-end travelers seek more than just opulence—they crave privacy, personalization, and purpose. Instead of flashy mega-resorts, they are opting for secluded private villas, tailor-made itineraries, and immersive wellness retreats. 

This is why luxury brands are pivoting toward bespoke travel services, sustainability-focused high-end stays, and holistic wellness experiences. High-end hotels are integrating AI concierges, private aviation services are expanding, and wellness tourism is seeing record growth.

‍

7. Bleisure and Remote Work Travel

The remote work revolution has reshaped how, when, and where people travel, creating a seamless blend of business and leisure—also known as bleisure travel. 

‍

Even big companies like Airbnb, Google, and Spotify have embraced work-from-anywhere policies. For digital nomads and remote professionals, this means working from beachfront cafés, mountain retreats, or vibrant city hubs—all while exploring new destinations.

‍

The travel industry is also adapting quickly to accommodate this growing trend. Hotels and resorts are adapting with co-working-friendly accommodations, high-speed internet, and wellness amenities tailored to remote workers.

‍

Popular destinations like Portugal, Thailand, and Mexico have responded with digital nomad visas, affordable long-term rentals, and vibrant expat communities. This initiative boosts remote work opportunities for digital nomads and promotes staycation bookings.

‍

How are Airlines, Hotels, and Tour Operators Adapting to New Travel Trends?

‍
The travel industry continues to be dynamic and responsive to evolving consumer needs. 

‍

Airlines: Flexible Booking & Traveler-Centric Policies

‍
Airlines have implemented flexible booking policies, allowing travelers to change plans without hefty fees. Leading carriers like Delta and Emirates now offer flexible fare options with no change fees, catering to the demand for adaptable travel.

‍

Hotels: Smart Technology & Sustainability-Focused Initiatives

‍

Hotels are integrating smart technology and expanding eco-friendly initiatives to meet the growing demand for personalized, responsible travel. Brands like Marriott and Hilton are integrating AI-powered room customization and expanding their sustainable hotel portfolios. Theya re also offering contactless check-ins and digital concierge services to enhance convenience. 

‍

Tour Operators: Small-Group, Customizable Travel Experiences

‍

The demand for authentic, meaningful experiences has led tour operators to redefine group travel. They are focusing on customized, small-group experiences. Companies like Intrepid Travel and G Adventures emphasize authentic, immersive, and responsible travel, catering to a growing demand for meaningful adventures.

‍

‍

Key Takeaways

• Travelers are prioritizing eco-friendly choices, AI-powered trip planning, and immersive experiences that create meaningful connections.
  
  
• Airlines, hotels, and tour operators are implementing flexible policies, smart technology, and unique offerings to cater to evolving traveler preferences.
  
  
• From remote work reshaping travel habits to the rise of luxury eco-stays and regenerative tourism, 2025 marks a transformative era in exploring the world.

‍

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

‍

How Long Do Travel Trends Typically Last?

Travel trends vary in longevity—some are fleeting fads that last a few months, while others mark significant industry shifts that persist for decades. Generally, short-term trends may last 1-3 years, whereas long-term movements—such as sustainability in travel—can span decades.

How Can I Stay Updated on Future Travel Trends?

To stay ahead of emerging travel trends, follow reputable travel industry sources such as Skift, Condé Nast Traveler, and industry reports from organizations like the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Engaging with travel influencers, joining travel forums, and subscribing to newsletters from leading travel brands can also provide valuable insights.

‍

How Will These Trends Impact the Travel Industry in the Long Term?

Sustainability initiatives drive eco-friendly policies in airlines and hotels. AI advancement optimizes travel planning through automation, and changing priorities push businesses to focus on personalization and immersive experiences.

Ever been on a tour so engaging that you forgot to check your phone? That’s the magic of an exceptional tour guide.

‍

A great tour guide does more than narrate facts—they create immersive experiences with storytelling, humor, and passion. They know how to connect with travelers, handle unexpected situations, and make every moment unforgettable. 

‍

But beyond the guest experience, did you know that having an exceptional tour guide can actually boost ratings, increase bookings, and drive repeat business?

‍

So, what exactly makes a tour guide truly exceptional? 

‍

Let’s get started!

‍

‍

Core Qualities of a Good Tour Guide

‍

A good tour guide combines knowledge, charisma, and professionalism to craft an engaging guest experience. Here are the qualities you need if you want to become a tour guide someday.

‍

Excellent Communication Skills

‍

A great tour guide communicates clearly, confidently, and dynamically. They don’t just talk—they engage. A skilled guide knows how to adjust their tone, pace, and storytelling style to suit different audiences, ensuring every guest feels included.

‍

You can use hand gestures, voice modulation, and facial expressions to maintain attention. Also, maintain a cheerful demeanor and build rapport with guests.

‍

Example: Imagine a tour of the Colosseum in Rome. A dull guide recites dates and architectural facts. But a great guide? They reenact gladiator battles, invite guests to imagine the roaring crowd, and even let them take part in a mock fight. The energy is contagious, and suddenly, history comes alive.

‍

Why it matters? Engaging communication fosters an interactive and immersive experience, which leads to better reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations.

‍

In-depth Knowledge and Expertise

‍

A knowledgeable guide isn’t just someone who memorizes facts—they are storytellers, cultural navigators, and local experts. A good guide provides insightful historical context, builds trust, and deepens the guest experience. 

‍

He/she creates engaging storytelling experiences and personalizes the tour based on guest interests.

‍

If you’re guiding a tour of Mount Agung in Bali to explore the different myths about its origin, a surface-level guide might stick to a rehearsed script. But a true expert? He/she adapts to different audience needs: 

‍

• For European or American tourists – The guide highlights the spiritual significance of the mountain in Balinese culture.
• For adventure-seekers – They share hidden trails and the best sunrise viewpoints.
• For photographers – They offer insider tips on the best angles and lighting.

‍

So, if I were to ask you, who would you pick? A guide who knows only surface-level facts or the one who personalizes the experience every step of the way? This level of expertise builds credibility and turns a standard tour into an unforgettable journey.

‍

Strong Management and Leadership Abilities

‍

A tour guide is also a leader—responsible for keeping everything organized, efficient, and stress-free. 

‍

A disorganized tour leads to delays, confusion, and frustrated guests. A strong leader, however, ensures that everything flows smoothly. For example, a great guide in Paris might use radio headsets to communicate in noisy areas, designate clear meeting points, and have contingency plans for unexpected changes.

‍

Well-managed tours lead to smoother operations, fewer complaints, and a seamless guest experience. Happy guests = better reviews and repeat business.

‍

Adaptable in All Situations

‍

Tours don’t always go as planned—bad weather, unexpected closures, or even lost guests! The difference between a good and a great guide? It’s how they handle the unexpected by staying calm, finding quick solutions, and keeping guests engaged.

‍

A great tour guide resolves unexpected issues professionally and keeps the group organized and on schedule–no matter what the problem is.

‍

Imagine a walking tour in Bangkok when a sudden downpour hits.

‍

• A reactive guide scrambles, apologizes, and rushes guests through the rain.
• A proactive guide finds shelter, turns it into an impromptu street food experience, and keeps the group entertained.

‍

Remember that reactive problem-solving leads to frustrated guests, especially when you’re in a bad mood. Proactive adaptability, on the other hand, turns frustrations into unforgettable moments.

‍

Passion and Enthusiasm

‍

Passion is contagious—and guests can tell when a guide truly loves what they do. A passionate guide doesn’t just talk—they bring energy, excitement, and a genuine love for the place they’re showcasing. He/she builds rapport with tourists effortlessly, answers guests’ questions effectively, and maintains a friendly and welcoming attitude. 

‍

Sometimes, he/she even uses humor to make tours entertaining!

‍

Just imagine a guide who rushes through the script, monotone and uninspired. And the other weaves fun facts, humor, and personal anecdotes into the experience. Which experience do you think guests will rave about?

‍

The passionate guide. Their excitement leaves a lasting impression, making guests more likely to leave reviews, recommend the tour, and book again.

‍

Multilingual Abilities (Optional but Valuable)

‍

Speaking multiple languages isn’t required—but it’s a huge advantage. International guests feel more welcomed since it prevents communication barriers and enhances guest satisfaction.

‍

Say you have guests from Barcelona. You can increase the chances of getting a booking if the guests know that you can speak both Spanish and English. Plus, it lets you avoid those dull and boring moments because of the language gap.

‍

Safety Awareness and Crisis Management

‍

Safety is non-negotiable in tourism. A tour guide ensures the safety of travelers and should know emergency procedures, anticipate risks, and confidently handle crises.

‍

This is especially important in outdoor activities. Just imagine how helpful you can be when you can assist a traveler who got a sprained ankle during your Patagonia hike. 

‍

Kathryn Levenson, an international tour leader, is trained in Wilderness Medicine and CPR. She has experienced clients getting sick or injuring themselves because of the activity. 

‍

Thus, all of her guides are required to carry an expedition-level medical kit. Sometimes, they need to be resourceful, such as bringing large filters to filter water for the whole camp if required.

‍

‍

Additional Skills That Make a Tour Guide Stand Out

‍

Beyond the core qualities, these additional skills set top-tier guides apart—helping them attract more bookings, get better reviews, and create unforgettable guest experiences. Here’s how you can be an exceptional tour guide on Viator: 

‍

• Digital and Social Media Savvy: A strong online presence attracts more bookings. Promote tours, interact with guests, and encourage reviews.
• Humor and Entertainment Skills: A fun guide makes history engaging and memorable. Use humor to keep guests entertained and improve reviews.
• Understanding Tourist Expectations: Personalize experiences by adapting to guest preferences, adjusting content, and pacing tours accordingly.

‍

‍

How to Be a Good Tour Guide

‍

Becoming an exceptional guide requires continuous learning and practice. Here’s how to get started:

‍

Education and Certification

‍

Formal education isn’t always required, but you can benefit from certifications in history, culture, or hospitality. Some destinations require specific licensing, so always check the regulations.

‍

Gaining Experience and Practicing Public Speaking

‍

Confidence comes from practice. Join a local tour company, lead small groups, or practice storytelling to improve confidence and delivery. Volunteering at museums or historical sites is a great way to gain experience.

‍

Collecting Feedback and Continuous Improvement

‍

Best guides never stop learning. So, encourage guests to leave reviews after your tour and take constructive criticism seriously. Regularly update knowledge, refine scripts, and improve interaction skills.

‍

If you're looking to hire and train top-tier guides for your tour business instead, check out this in-depth guide on hiring, training, and retaining the best guides.

‍

‍

Key Takeaways

‍

• A good tour guide is knowledgeable, engaging, and adaptable.
• Communication, leadership, and enthusiasm set top guides apart from the rest.
• If you listen to guest feedback, learn from them, and adapt to improve the tour, you’re in for long-term success.

‍

‍

Frequently Asked Questions

‍

Can Anyone Become a Tour Guide Without Formal Training?

‍

Yes. While formal training helps, strong communication skills, passion, and local knowledge can compensate. Experience in public speaking and customer service is a huge help.

‍

Is First Aid Training Necessary for Tour Guides?

‍

Yes. Tour guides are responsible for their guests. So, many tour companies require guides for basic first-aid training, especially for adventure and outdoor activities.

‍

Should Tour Guides Accept Tips from Tourists?

‍

Yes, tipping is common in the tour industry. However, policies vary by company and region, so check local customs and employer guidelines.

Want to get your tour in front of millions of travelers? Viator, the world’s largest tour marketplace with over 455+ million monthly visitors, allows tour operators to showcase experiences with a global audience.

‍

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to list my tour on Viator and optimize it for maximum visibility.

‍

‍

What Types of Tours Perform Best on Viator?

‍

According to the 2025 Viator Travel Trends Report, these are the top 10 tours that will perform best this year: 

‍

1. Cultural, historical, and heritage tours
2. Day trips
3. Day cruises
4. 4WD, ATV, and off-road tours
5. Attraction tickets
6. Nature and wildlife experiences
7. Half-day tours
8. Cooking classes
9. Wine tasting and tours
10. Port of Call tours

‍

To ensure you succeed, make sure to list high-quality tours. High-performing listings create immersive, well-structured experiences and activities that stand out from generic options. 

‍

For example, a generic boat ride may struggle to gain traction, while a cruise featuring wine tastings, live storytelling, and interactive activities will attract more bookings.

‍

The Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour attracts consistent bookings because it has a clear theme, a structured itinerary, and a high demand.

‍

Choosing the right niche can have a significant impact on your profitability. A well-structured experience also allows for premium pricing and opportunities for upselling (e.g., VIP access, private guides).

‍

‍

Eligibility Criteria for Listing on Viator

‍

To list a tour in Viator, you must comply with Viator’s policies. You must meet the following official eligibility requirements:

‍

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Comply with all relevant laws and regulations in your area.
• Provide accurate tour details, pricing, and availability.
• Maintain high customer satisfaction ratings.

‍

Following Viator’s eligibility standards boosts your credibility and increases your chances of being featured in high-visibility sections of the platform. 

‍

Remember: The best-performing tours exceed customer expectations, leading to higher rankings, more bookings, and stronger brand loyalty.

‍

‍

How to Get Listed on Viator in 7 Steps

‍

Getting listed is easy, but optimizing your listing for maximum exposure is what separates successful tours from those that get buried in search results. 

‍

Here’s how you can create your listing and begin accepting bookings.

‍

1. Create a Viator Supplier Account

‍

Imagine launching your tour business with just an idea and turning it into a thriving business. That’s exactly what Steve Huskanovic, founder of The New York Nightlife, did with Viator.

‍

From sleeping on couches in high school to running a top-rated nightlife tour, Steve’s journey began with a simple step—creating a Viator Supplier Account.

‍

Here’s how you can do the same:

‍

1. Sign up on Viator’s Supplier Page.
2. Enter your business details and payment preferences (PayPal, bank transfers, or Payoneer).
3. Verify your identity and start listing your tours!

‍

Tip: The sooner you complete your profile, the sooner you can start booking customers. Just like Steve, taking action today could be the start of something big.

‍

2. Set Up Your Tour Profile

‍

Your Viator tour profile is your storefront. Just like a messy shop window turns people away, a poorly written tour description does the same.

‍

Compare this:

‍

• Weak profile: “Join our city tour and see famous landmarks.” 
• Strong profile: “Explore hidden alleyways, taste authentic street food, and uncover the stories behind historic landmarks with a passionate local guide.”

‍

A well-optimized profile increases bookings, gets featured in Viator’s top searches, and builds credibility that turns browsers into buyers.

‍

3. Add Pricing and Availability

‍

Setting competitive pricing and managing scheduling effectively can significantly impact your sales. Research similar tours in your area to determine a fair and attractive price. For instance, offering an early-bird discount or seasonal pricing can boost conversions.

‍

You can also have tiered pricing for a higher conversion rate. For example, this experience includes options for private and group tours:

‍

• Basic Package ($50): Standard group tour
• Premium Package ($75): Includes extra stops and a local food tasting
• VIP Private Tour ($120): Personalized experience with hotel pickup

‍

A well-thought-out pricing strategy not only increases revenue but also improves search rankings on Viator. This makes your tour more visible to potential customers.

‍

4. Upload High-Quality Photos and Videos

‍

Want more listings? Travelers are more engaged by 150% with high-quality images. In fact, a great photo showcases the experience’s unique elements, such as guests having fun on a sunset cruise. Don’t show pictures that are blurry, dark, and lifeless.

‍

The rule of thumb is to upload 20+ crisp, high-res images (min. 2048px) with action shots. 

‍

Make sure they’re mobile-optimized as well. Most travelers browse and book tours on their phones, so high-quality, well-framed images will help your listing stand out.

‍

5. Write an SEO-Optimized Tour Description

‍

Your tour description isn’t just about the experience. It’s the details, too. The description should be keyword-rich, engaging, and informative. 

‍

Instead of vague statements like, “Join our fun experience,” use vivid details and smart keywords like: 

‍

“Kayak across Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters, spot local wildlife, and soak in breathtaking mountain views.”

‍

Better SEO = more visibility = more bookings!

‍

6. Choose Distribution Channels and Payment Options

‍

Want more bookings? List your tour across Viator’s partners like Tripadvisor and Google Experiences. Multi-channel distribution expands your reach and boosts revenue.

‍

Also, offer multiple payment options to make it easier for them to book your tour.

‍

Payment methods you can incorporate include:

‍

• Credit and debit cards
• Digital wallets like Google Pay and Apple Pay
• PayPal
• Viator's "Reserve now, pay later" feature

‍

Remember, we want the travelers to be at ease. More payment options = more conversions! 

‍

7. Submit for Review and Approval

‍

Once your listing is complete, Viator reviews it within a few days.

‍

But not every application gets approved. Common reasons for rejection include missing details, low-quality images, or non-compliance with Viator’s guidelines. 

‍

For a smooth approval process, make sure to double-check descriptions, upload high-res photos, and follow Viator’s official guidelines.

‍

Note: All new listings undergo a quality review with a small, nonrefundable fee. 

‍

‍

How to Optimize Your Tour Listing on Viator

‍

Listing on Viator isn’t enough—you need to rank higher to get more bookings and boost revenue. 

‍

Here’s how to stand out:

‍

• Craft SEO-friendly titles and descriptions with high-ranking keywords like “sunset cruise” and “kayak tours” to help travelers find you.
• Regularly update your listing to reflect new offerings or seasonal experiences.
• Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews to boost credibility and ranking.
• Optimize pricing and adjust rates based on demand patterns.
• Monitor performance to track views, bookings, and reviews for continuous improvement.

‍

Remember, optimized listings consistently outperform generic ones, leading to higher visibility and increased revenue.

‍

For example, Amigo Tours leveraged SEO, analytics, and pricing strategies to attract over 1 million customers annually, proving that higher rankings mean higher revenue. 

‍

Cost of Listing a Tour on Viator

‍

Viator operates on a commission-based model, typically charging around 25% per booking but with zero upfront costs. You only pay when you make a sale. This covers access to their extensive distribution network, promotional tools, and customer support. 

‍

For example, 

Sell a $100 tour = You keep $75, Viator gets $25.

No sale, no charges.

‍

In addition, compared to platforms like GetYourGuide and Klook, Viator’s 455+ million monthly visitors helps reach global travelers, and the Tripadvisor integration alone already provides you with a strong return on investment.

‍

‍

Increase Tour Bookings with Peek Pro and Viator

‍

Viator gets you bookings—Peek Pro provides booking management tools that make managing them effortless. 

‍

Without a booking system, you’re manually confirming reservations, tracking payments, and dealing with no-shows. 

‍

With Peek Pro + Viator, it: 

‍

• Automates booking confirmations and reduces no-shows
• Facilitates secure payment processing
• Supports direct communication with customers
• Enables real-time availability updates
• Tracks customer reviews and ratings
• Features analytics for performance insights
• Manages everything on the go with the mobile app

‍

In fact, tour operators using Peek Pro alongside Viator experience higher efficiency, fewer no-shows, and increased revenue compared to not having any booking software.

‍

Request a demo today and take your tour business to the next level.

‍

‍

Key Takeaways

‍

• Listing your tour on Viator helps you increase visibility and bookings through a global marketplace.
• Optimize your tour profile, pricing, and photos to boost sales significantly.
• Use both Peek Pro and Viator to enhance efficiency and streamline operations.

‍

‍

Frequently Asked Questions

‍

How Long Does it Take for Viator to Approve Your Tour Listing?

‍

Viator’s approval process usually takes 24 to 48 hours. Ensure your listing meets all requirements for faster approval.

‍

Does Viator Offer Marketing Support for Sellers?

‍

Yes. Viator provides marketing tools, SEO optimization, and paid advertising options to increase tour visibility.

‍

Can You Remove a Tour from Viator?

‍

Yes. You can remove a tour via the Viator Management Center. Manage your listings and availability settings from there.