Category: Authentic travel

Where We’re Traveling: Zicasso’s 2026 Luxury Travel Trends Report

Adventure, African safaris, Asian cooking, Authentic travel, Ireland, Luxury, Train rides, Trains, Vintage Trains, Zicasso

The 2026 travel landscape demonstrates a fundamental shift in how luxury travelers approach international exploration. No longer content with the obvious choice, today’s sophisticated travelers diversify their destinations, seek authentic experiences beyond traditional tourism centers, and optimize their itineraries for meaningful engagement rather than simple duration.

At Zicasso, travel experts have analyzed data from over 100,000 trip requests for 2026 departures to identify trends across global regions. From observing how travelers are moving beyond South Africa to discover Zimbabwe’s wildlife corridors, to seeing them bypass popular Greek islands for Ireland’s cultural heritage, we have identified how discerning travelers are reshaping the international travel landscape.

The following results of Zicasso’s 2026 Travel Trends Report show what we expect luxury travel to look like in the coming year.

Discovering Regional Alternatives to Traditional Favorites

Safari travelers are exploring beyond South Africa’s well-trodden game reserves to discover the wildlife-rich landscapes of neighboring countries. Island seekers are trading Greece’s popular summer corners for Ireland’s coastal drama and Celtic heritage. Across every major travel region, our data reveals a sophisticated shift: travelers now research multiple destinations within a region, choosing based on their specific interests rather than simply booking the most famous name.

The result benefits both travelers and destinations: visitors enjoy more authentic experiences while the positive impact of tourism spreads across multiple countries, supporting broader conservation efforts.

Regional Redistribution Highlights:

  • South Africa safari bookings: Declined from 36.3% to 26.6% of regional share
  • Tanzania: Rose to 21.9%
  • Zimbabwe: Increased to 16.3%
  • Botswana: Grew to 10.2%
  • Greece: Declined 4.8 percentage points as Ireland entered Europe’s top five

This pattern appears across Asia, where Thailand declined 6.7 percentage points while Japan expanded its dominance, and in the South Pacific, where New Zealand and Australia demonstrate a pendulum pattern as travelers alternate between the two countries in consecutive years.

The common thread: travelers make intentional choices based on what each destination uniquely offers.

Eastern and Northern Europe Capture Growing Interest

Beyond the established favorites of Italy, France, and Spain, European travel is expanding north and east. Travelers seek the same elements that make Western Europe appealing, such as rich history, distinctive architecture, and culinary traditions, but with a better value in mind, and the excitement of destinations still in their discovery phase.

Poland’s historic cities, like Krakow, offer an authentic and accessible European atmosphere. Wales delivers dramatic coastlines and medieval castles at a density unmatched anywhere else. Sweden attracts those drawn to Scandinavian design, sustainable travel practices, and Nordic natural beauty. These destinations now provide the infrastructure and luxury hospitality that once distinguished only Western European classics, while maintaining an authenticity that comes before tourism saturation.

Fastest-Growing European Destinations:

  1. Poland: +229%
  2. Wales: +226%
  3. Sweden: +143%
  4. Czechia: +94%
  5. Norway: +82%

The appeal extends beyond individual countries to how they connect. Scenic trains between Prague and Krakow, short flights linking Scandinavian capitals, and scenic drives through Alpine passes allow travelers to experience multiple cultures within a single trip. This compact geography aligns perfectly with the trend toward multi-destination efficiency, letting you explore three distinct European countries in the time traditional itineraries devoted to one.

Japan Continues Its Rise as a Premier Asian Destination

Japan demonstrates how the right combination of factors can drive sustained growth rather than the typical boom-and-plateau pattern. The country rose from rank 9 globally to rank 6, capturing more than one-third of all Asian luxury travel. Rather than showing signs of saturation, Japan’s appeal continues to expand as more travelers discover its depth.

Japan’s cultural richness and natural beauty within a compact, highly efficient geography drive the interest. Bullet trains connect Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka in under three hours. You can experience imperial palaces, mountain hot springs, and coastal villages without the extended ground transportation that complicates other Asia itineraries.

Japan’s Growth Trajectory:

  • Global ranking: Rose from rank 9 (2025) to rank 6 (2026)
  • Regional dominance: Commands 34.1% of Asia luxury travel
  • Year-over-year acceleration: 4.4 percentage-point growth

Japan also rewards repeat visits. First-time travelers explore iconic sites like Kyoto’s temples and Tokyo’s neighborhoods. Return visitors discover regional experiences: Hokkaido’s winter landscapes, Okinawa’s subtropical islands, rural onsen towns, and regional culinary specialties from kaiseki cuisine to local sake breweries.

Where You Stay Matters

Accommodations jumped into the top 10 travel priorities for the first time, rising from rank 13 to rank 8. This shift appeared simultaneously across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the South Pacific signaling that travelers everywhere now view where they stay as integral to their destination experience rather than simply a place to sleep.

When trips become shorter and more intentional, every element gains importance. Morning rituals in a Japanese ryokan, evenings on the terrace of a Tuscan villa, nights under canvas in the African bush: these are essential components of cultural immersion.

Accommodation Priority Shift:

  • Previous ranking: 13th (2025)
  • Current ranking: 8th (2026)
  • Regional consistency: Entered top 10 simultaneously in Europe, Africa, Asia, and South Pacific
  • Movement: +5 positions year-over-year

This elevation of accommodations complements other 2026 trends. As travelers combine multiple destinations into efficient itineraries, the quality of each element matters more. Where you rest and recharge becomes as thoughtfully curated as the experiences filling your days.

Planning Your 2026 Journey

Luxury travel in 2026 rewards those who approach planning with intention and insight. Whether you’re drawn to Eastern Europe’s emerging destinations, seeking regional alternatives to traditional favorites, or looking for efficient multi-country itineraries that maximize your time, understanding these trends helps you craft journeys that reflect an evolved approach to travel.

A full version of the report can be found in their comprehensive PDF document.

If you’re ready to explore how these trends might shape your travel plans, or looking for inspiration for your next adventure, our travel specialists can help create a custom experience tailored to your interests, needs, and travel goals. Contact Zicasso to begin planning your next extraordinary journey.

Baja California Sur’s Wellness Festivals: A Stunning Environment for Rejuvenation

Authentic travel, Baja California Sur, Beaches, Ecology, Pacific Ocean, Pueblos Magicos, Wellness

This fall,Visit Baja California Sur invites travelers to embrace a season of restoration with two thoughtfully curated wellness festivals set against the region’s striking coastal landscapes. The Todos Santos Wellness Fest returns first, taking placefrom October 31 to November 2, followed by the debut of the Loreto Live Well Experiencefrom November 7 to 9. Both events celebrate the growing global desire for meaningful, tech-free escapes, pairing movement, mindfulness, and connection with the natural beauty and cultural richness of Baja California Sur.

“Baja California Sur offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth that makes it the ideal place for wellness travelers seeking more than just a getaway,”says Jesus Ordoñez, General Director of Visit Baja California Sur.“These festivals, set in two of the region’s most naturally inspiring towns, are designed to help guests reconnect with themselves and the environment in a way that feels authentic and restorative.”

Known for its robust wellness community, the picturesque beach town of Todos Santos—located on the peninsula’s Pacific Coast—provides the perfect backdrop for a transformative weekend of yoga, meditation, and live music during theTodos Santos Wellness Fest. Taking place from October 31 to November 2, the festival coincides with Día de los Muertos, adding an additional layer of reflection and cultural connection to the experience.

Participants can join sessions led by instructors such as CEO of the Mexican Institute of Yoga Ana Paula Domínguez, movement artist Annie Parr, Master of Yoga Beni Falcon,and acclaimed yoga photographer Robert Sturman. Private, ticketed workshops and immersive experiences will take place at Jardín La Barca, while Casa de la Cultura will host select public sessions open to all. Attendees can engage in practices like Kundalini Yoga, Ashtanga, Vinyasa Flow, and sensory exploration, culminating in a closing DJ set that blends movement and sound for a holistic experience.

Making its debut as Loreto’s first wellness festival of its kind, the Loreto Live Well Experience runs from November 7 to 9. Nestled where desert meets sea, this historic Pueblo Magico, renowned for its charm, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural surroundings, invites guests to rejuvenate with family-friendly yoga, mindful fitness, longevity-focused Qigong, breathwork, and meditation.

Led by esteemed instructors including Mexican actor Luis de la Rosa, musician Lady Gang, senior yoga trainer Jimena Patiño, healing artist Matt Pesendian, yoga teacher Ana Ponzo, and photographer Citlali Chalvignac, the festival offers a diverse range of practices designed to awaken and nourish body, mind, and spirit amid the breathtaking beauty that earned Loreto its Pueblo Mágico designation.

While many of the workshops and sessions will be ticketed and held at Hotel Oasis, a serene retreat blending modern comfort with traditional Baja style, lush gardens, and sweeping views of the UNESCO World Heritage Loreto Marine Park, there will also be select public events on Saturday, November 8 hosted in the town’s central plaza, welcoming the broader community to join in the celebration of wellness.

Loreto is accessible via the Loreto International Airport (LTO), which offers direct flights from Los Angeles (LAX), Phoenix (PHX), and Dallas (DFW), making it an easy destination for wellness travelers. Alternatively, both Loreto and Todos Santos can be reached through Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), with Todos Santos located about a 1.5-hour drive north of the airport and Loreto approximately 3.5 hours to the northeast. For those looking to explore both festivals, Todos Santos and Loreto are roughly a three-hour drive apart, offering a scenic route through Baja California Sur’s diverse landscapes.

Early Bird tickets for the Todos Santos Wellness Fest are now available and start at $2,590 MXN (roughly $140 USD) providing access to all classes and events while the Loreto Live Well Experience offers early bird tickets beginning at $1,680 MXN (roughly $90 USD). For more information and ticket purchases, travelers can visit the official festival websites: https://tswellnessfest.mx/en/ and
https://loretolivewell.com.

About Baja California Sur

Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, the state of Baja California Sur
encompasses the southern half of the Baja Peninsula. The climate is perfect for fishing, boating, surfing, and diving, making the destination an adventurer and thrill-seeker’s dream. The state features breathtaking scenery from the windswept ocean beaches on the west to the tranquil, turquoise waters on the east. In between are canyons, desertscapes and lush oasis ripe for exploration.

Known for its extraordinary marine life, whale watching is one of the area’s most well-known tourist attractions along with sportfishing, kayaking and bird watching. For more information on Baja California Sur: Visit Baja Sur.

azcentral.com and The Arizona Republic: The wild west lives on in Arizona: dust storms, horses and more

Authentic travel, Nature

https://www.azcentral.com/picture-gallery/news/local/arizona/2025/08/23/arizona-wildlifre-nature-southwest-scenery/85765836007/

azcentral.com and The Arizona Republic: The wild west lives on in Arizona: dust storms, horses and more

Authentic travel, Nature

https://www.azcentral.com/picture-gallery/news/local/arizona/2025/08/23/arizona-wildlifre-nature-southwest-scenery/85765836007/

Cyprus Immerses Visitors in the Slow Travel Trend 

Authentic travel, Beaches, Travel trends

For several years now, especially post-COVID-19 pandemic, the travel industry has seen increasing interest in the concept of “slow travel”, commonly identified as a desire for travelers to leisurely immerse themselves into a destination, connect with locals and fully experience its culture, foods, and traditions.

Cyprus is one of the oldest civilizations in the Mediterranean with a long history that spans 11,000 years and a rich culture due to its unique geographic position at the crossroads of three continents – Europe, Asia, and Africa. Throughout the centuries, Cyprus has been home to Myceanian Greeks, Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Romans, Franks, Venetians, Ottomans and the British, who have all left behind visible remnants of their passage (especially in their architecture) and created a mosaic of different cultures and periods on the island.

The Republic of Cyprus, with its relatively small geographic area of 3,572 square miles, is a model destination for the concept of slow travel. It boasts the advantage of being one of the oldest civilizations in the Mediterranean. Steeped in history, the island’s soul can be found in its heartland – filled with hospitable people, enduring traditions, clear waters, diving opportunities, beaches, fresh produce, and ancient foodways. 

To that end, the Heartland of Legends Routes, a project designed by the Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Tourism, invites visitors to explore the island’s hidden rural gems, immerse themselves in the mythology and traditions of the land, and enjoy the benefit of slow travel. With its temperate Mediterranean climate, long dry summers and mild winters, separated by short autumn and spring seasons, Cyprus is a destination ripe for discovery year-round!

Examples of some of the thematic Heartland of Legends routes celebrated are: 

  • The Divine Olive Oil Route – This route celebrates the cultivation and production of olive oil which has been a part of Cyprus’s tradition for centuries, with the Greek Orthodox church imbuing olive oil with divine properties. Typically a traditional olive harvest lasts from October to March and, among the heartland villages, visitors will come across a number of restored traditional olive oil presses and may even participate in the harvest. Purchase a bottle to take home – Cypriot extra virgin olive oil is known for its distinctive, fruity aroma and robust flavour. 
  • The Honey Taste Route – Since antiquity, man has associated bees with nature’s regenerative forces and honey has been appreciated for its nutritional value, used for both ceremonial as well as medical purposes. By the early twentieth century, a decline in bee hives prompted Cypriot authorities to introduce modern wooden beehives, with movable frames, to the island. The Honey Taste route visits nine villages in the southeast area of the Troodos mountainous range, where the majority of beekeeping on the island is done. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about Cypriot honey harvesting, taste different varieties and even make their own beeswax candles.
  • Weaving of Dreams Route – Embroidery in Cyprus, influenced by both Byzantine and Venetian patterns as well as new designs, is one of the most important contributions to the island’s intangible heritage. Today, women wanting to revive the interest of the younger generation and bring back to fashion the traditional embroidery have combined the beauty of Lefkaritika lace making and the geometrical and colorful designs of Fythkiotika to create new fashionable items. On the Weaving of Dreams Route, travelers can easily spend a day visiting six of the most picturesque and quaint villages, visiting traditional workshops or boutiques and admiring the collection of bags, dresses, cushions and accessories. 

More information about the Heartland of Legends Routes can be found here: Heartland of Legends | Cyprus is the island of Legends & Stories 

More information about travel to Cyprus can be found at: https://www.visitcyprus.com/ 

Photos courtesy of Visit Cyprus.

Discover the Beauty of Machu Picchu on a Women-Only Apaca Expedition

Adventure, Authentic travel, Cultural Immersion, Historic foodways, Peru, Sustainable travell, Travel trends, Uncategorized

As part of their commitment to empowering women through exploration and cultural immersion, Alpaca Expeditions, a Peru-based travel organization, offers the Women-Only Salkantay & Sacred Valley, a 7-Day Tour to Machu Picchu. This multi-day hiking experience, led by only female guides and porters, is limited to women travelers as it follows the Salkantay.

It’s an off the beaten trek through an ever-changing landscape of stunning panoramic vistas of valleys, mountain peaks, waterfalls, and streams, stopping at places such as Pisac, a town on the Urubamba River known for having one of the best archaeological complexes in Peru and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu. This unique mix of culture, scenery, glamping, and experiences centered on Perusivan traditions also includes Peruvian wine tasting, a cooking class, the weaving women’s collective, and a coffee tour. 

It’s an alternative trek, and participants won’t see many other hikers or groups on the trail, adding to the intimacy of the experience in the vastness of the Andes mountains.

The trip is a mix of glamping and tent camping. Guests will enjoy two nights in glass cabañas with stunning views of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain range. For a unique experience, one night is spent in the Lord of the Rings-inspired Hobbit Houses exclusive to Alpaca Expeditions. Hot tubs, showers, and a nearby glacial-fed river complement the mystical Hobbit House experience.

Two nights are tent camping, one within the Salkantay Mountains and the second at an exclusive campsite overlooking the ruins of Machu Picchu at Llactapata. The final night is at a hotel in the mountain village of Aguas Calientes (Spanish for hot springs), at the foot of Machu Picchu.

Sacred Vally and Salkantay Ultimate Hiking Tour to Machu Picchu–7 days is $995 per person. Group size is 8-12. Custom tours with groups of 6 or more are available. Dates are available May – October 2025. 

For more information and a day-by-day itinerary, visit Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu Only Women.

All photos courtesy of Alpaca Expeditions.

See the Movie “Paddington in Peru”

Authentic travel, Film, Movies, Peru

Paddington, the beloved bear from Peru, returns to the big screen after six years on Friday, February 14. In the newest Paddington movie, “Paddington in Peru”, he travels to Peru to learn more about his origins and showcase Peru to the world. 

PROMPERÚ, the official tourism board of Peru, created this website highlighting travel destinations found in the movie and also features helpful tips on traveling to Peru and deals to book a Peruvian adventure.

In “Paddington in Peru”, Paddington travels to Peru with the Brown family to visit his dear Aunt Lucy, who now lives in the home for retired bears. What begins as an emotional visit soon turns into a thrilling journey, where the characters find themselves wrapped in a mystery that takes them from the lush Amazon rainforest to the breathtaking peaks of the Peruvian Andes.

Paddington in Peru

Among the locations chosen for filming are the Historic Center of Lima, the Plaza Mayor, nearby streets and the Miraflores district in Lima. You can also see the wonder of the modern world, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu and the town of Machu Picchu. 

Filmed in Peru assisted in filming in the regions of Lima and Cusco. In recent years, Film In Peru has supported international audiovisual productions such as Dora and the Lost City of Gold, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, Street Food Latin America, Down to Earth with Zac Efron, La Reina del Sur, among others.

Discover the History of Road Trips at the Airstream Heritage Center

Authentic travel, Columbus, Ohio, Travel trends

When Horatio Nelson Jackson packed for the first road trip across the United States, a trip that started in San Francisco on May 23, 1903, and ended up 63 days later in New York City, he didn’t pack a cooler and money for tolls. Instead, Jackson, who was accompanied by his chauffeur Sewall K. Crocker loaded a 1903 Winston with sleeping bags, blankets, tools such as an axe and shovel, a Kodak camera, both a rifle and a shotgun, spare automotive parts, rubber suits and coats, and as many cans of oil and gas as would fit in the open touring car.

It was all part of a bet. Jackson, a doctor from Burlington, Vermont, wagered $50 (about $4,358.84 today) that he would cross the country in a car, something that had never been done before. The trip ended up costing $8,000 (approximately $3,563.05 in today’s money) and used 800 gallons of gas.

Jackson paid for the entire trip and none of it was offset by the $50 wager as it was never paid. As a plus, Jackson and Crocket acquired a pitbull named Buddy in Idaho who accompanied them for the rest of the trip.

Cars back then (often referred to as machines) weren’t totally unheard of, but road trips were very unique back then. First of all, there weren’t many petrol stations Second of all, roadside motels didn’t exist when the Milestone Mo-Tel in San Luis Obispo, California opened. It was the first “motel” in the world. But that didn’t happen until 23 years later in 1925.

Ten years before that, the first auto camp opened in Douglas, Arizona. But that didn’t help out Jackson and Crocket. Their choices were hotels that could be found in cities and towns but when there was nothing but long stretches of road, the options were to pull to the side of the road and sleep in your car or knock on a farmer’s door and for a small fee, park in a field and get a home cooked breakfast the next morning. 1913 was also the first time that the number of automobiles in the nation reached one million. As of February 1923, there were 275,913,237 motor vehicles in the U.S.

In 1903, there were about 8,000 cars but only 150 miles of paved roads. Hence the rubber suits—traveling was either dusty or muddy. Goggles were necessary, even Buddy wore a set. It was such an adventure and so unique, that news reporters followed them or were on-hand when they entered a town.

Fast Forward three decades

By the time the first Airstream in the 1930s was manufactured, road trips were much more comfy. But Airstream kicked up several notches. An invention by Wally Byam who first concocted the idea of a travel trailer in the 1920s when he erected a tent over the chassis of a car. If that doesn’t sound like a fun experience, you’re right. And so Wally went back to the drawing board. By 1931, he had opened a trailer manufacturing plant in Culver City, California. At the time, Wally’s trailer company was one of only 50 in the U.S. By 1937, there were approximately 400. Today only Airstream remains.

For those tracing the company’s history—as well as the history of road travel in America—there is now a landmark addition to the vintage collection on display at the Airstream Heritage Center in Jackson Center, Ohio.

“It’s believed to be the first rounded, riveted aluminum travel trailer produced by Airstream, Clipper , that was designed and built by Airstream founder, Wally Byam himself,” says my friend Nate Swick, who is impressed with the iconic style of the Airstream, considered one of the world’s premier recreational vehicles.

Here’s the story according to Nate

That first model was documented extensively in the 1930s in an effort to market the travel trailer to travelers seeking a premium way to see the country. All that changed after World War II. The whereabouts of Clipper became almost mythological. Had it been used in a traveling Mexican circus or had it been sold to Lázaro Cárdenas, then President of Mexico?

Decades went by and then in 2017, the Clipper was discovered in Mexico City. After 40 weeks of restoration, it now is part of the extensive collection at the Airstream Heritage Center, on display between both 1938 and 1941 models. The three are only 12 Clipper models known to still be in existence.

The 750,000-square-foot headquarters, where the travel trailers are manufactured, offers tours as well as designs from the last 90-plus years. Some fun facts to keep in mind while visiting are: it takes 350 hours to build each Airstream travel trailer, using 3,000 rivets and 1,200-square-feet, on average, of aluminum.

Courtesy of Airstream Adventure.

Those visiting Jackson Center, population just over a 1,000, consider adding some other stops to your trip. The following are within two hours of the Airstream Heritage Center. airstream.com

Don’t Miss These Other Nearby Destinations

The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) in Columbus features exhibits for all ages including the American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Exhibit, a planetarium, and an exhibit on the Titanic with over 200 artifacts recovered from the wreck and full-scale room recreations. cosi.org/

Photo courtesy of Center of Science and Industry (COSI).

The National Aviation Heritage Center near Dayton is the world’s largest military aviation museum. You’ll find many rare and one-of-a-kind aircraft and aerospace vehicles on site digging into the history of air and space travel (all the way back to the Wright Brothers). As an added bonus, admission is free. visitnaha.com

Photo courtesy of the National Aviation Heritage Center.

The Westcott House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, was built in 1908 and is open for tours. It is one of many historic buildings in the Greater Springfield Region and this year there are 20 tours for those interested in history, historic architecture, and design including walking tours, bicycle tours, and happy hour tours, westcotthouse.org

Photo courtesy of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Westcott House.

This article originally appeared in the Northwest Indiana Times.

25 Reasons to Visit Fairbanks in 2025

Adventure, Alaska, Aurora, Authentic travel, Boating, Dogs, Fairbanks, Midnight Sun

Fairbanks, Alaska, is a land of captivating contrasts, offering truly unforgettable experiences. Chase the aurora borealis, celebrate the summer solstice under 24 hours of daylight, and explore the rugged beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. Discover 25 compelling reasons to visit Fairbanks in 2025, from relaxing in a natural hot spring to embarking on epic dog mushing adventures and much more.

1.    Mesmerizing Northern Lights
Watch in awe as the northern lights dance across Fairbanks’ clear, dark skies. From August 21 to April 21, during Aurora Season, this natural phenomenon creates an unforgettable experience. Fairbanks’ location under the Auroral Oval offers prime viewing opportunities, making it a world-renowned destination for aurora seekers.

2.    Amazing Alaska Native Events
Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Alaska Native peoples. Participate in cultural events, witness traditional dances, and learn about the unique heritage of Interior Alaska’s first inhabitants.

3.    Rich Gold Rush History
Step into the gold rush era in Fairbanks! Pan for gold and keep your treasures. Or join the community during the annual Golden Days, a vibrant celebration of the city’s gold rush heritage.

4.    Easy Access via Air, Road, Rail and Cruise
Fairbanks is easily accessible by air through Fairbanks International Airport including new summer seasonal routes from Salt Lake City and Portland, by road, by rail on the Alaska Railroad, and via cruise ship tours that include land excursions to Fairbanks.

5.    An Iconic Historic Park
Visit the centrally located Pioneer Park to experience museums, historic buildings and family-friendly attractions. Take a leisurely walk through Alaska’s colorful history, all in one location.

6.    Alaska’s State Sport of Dog Mushing
Visit a dog kennel, learn about the training of these incredible athletes, and perhaps even take a dog sled ride. Cheer on mushers and their dog teams as they race across challenging snowy terrain. These world-renowned sled dog races showcase the spirit and endurance of Alaska’s dog sledding tradition.

7.    Relaxing Natural Hot Springs
Unwind in the soothing waters of Chena Hot Springs. These mineral-rich waters offer a rejuvenating retreat from your adventures. Relax and rejuvenate surrounded by stunning natural scenery, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the northern lights while you soak.

8.    Locally Made Art and Gifts
Find unique treasures and support local artists by exploring Fairbanks’ art galleries, markets and shops that feature Alaskan-made goods. Discover handcrafted jewelry, pottery, paintings, housewares and other Alaskan-made goods.

9.    It’s Christmas All Year
Visit nearby North Pole, where the spirit of Christmas lives year-round. Explore the Santa Claus House to browse holiday-inspired gifts, snap a photo with Santa and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Explore Silver Bell Square, a new multi-use plaza next to the store.

10.  A Vibrant Downtown
Explore Fairbanks’ revitalized downtown, with its unique shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. Discover local art, enjoy delicious cuisine and experience the friendly atmosphere of this northern city.

11.  A Chance to Cross the Arctic Circle
Fairbanks provides easy access to Alaska’s Arctic. Journey by road or air to stand at this symbolic boundary. Capture a photo at the Arctic Circle sign and experience the unique landscapes and phenomena of the far north.

12.  Abundant Local Flavors and Libations
Savor the unique flavors of Fairbanks at local eateries, breweries and distilleries. From restaurants using locally sourced ingredients to a variety of small-batch breweries and distilleries, enjoy a taste of Alaska’s culinary delights.

13.  Stellar Solstice Celebrations
Celebrate the summer and winter solstices in Fairbanks. The Summer Solstice is a time of festivals and revelry under the Midnight Sun, while the Winter Solstice marks the return of the light.

14.  Larger Than Life Ice Sculptures
Experience the magic of ice art, from delicate carvings to towering structures. Be amazed by elaborate sculptures and frozen masterpieces at the annual World Ice Art Championships held in Fairbanks. Explore two ice museums open year-round.

15.  Historic Sites and Museums
Delve into Fairbanks’ history at various museums and historic sites. Learn about the area’s natural history, cultural heritage and the stories of the people who shaped this unique region.

16.  Endless Daylight
Experience the magic of Midnight Sun Season, when the sun barely dips below the horizon. For 70 straight days between mid-May and late July, the skies in Fairbanks don’t truly get dark. Take advantage of the extended days to explore, adventure, and soak up the midnight sun.

17.  A New Home for Alaska’s Transportation History
The Fountainhead Transportation Museum, opening in fall 2025, is a state-of-the-art museum celebrating Alaska’s history of innovation with over 135 vintage cars, rare aircraft, and cultural treasures. Explore immersive exhibits and stunning restorations in a must-see destination for history and transportation enthusiasts that will combine the existing Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum and Pioneer Air Museum into one new location.

18.  Festivals, Fairs and Events Galore
Fairbanks is home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year, from rousing street fairs that take over downtown to week-long celebrations and everything in between. Experience the vibrant community spirit and enjoy a variety of entertainment.

19.  Unforgettable Adventures to Denali
Fairbanks serves as the basecamp to Denali National Park. Enjoy ranger-led programs, hiking trails for all skill levels and scenic bus tours into the heart of the park. Witness the grandeur of Denali and immerse yourself in the pristine Alaskan wilderness.

20.  Pristine Waterways for Fishing and Floating
Explore the clear waters of local rivers and lakes. Dip a line for fishing in the summer or ice fishing in the winter. Take a scenic riverboat trip, a leisurely float or paddle a kayak and immerse yourself in the natural beauty.

21.  Epic Outdoor Winter Adventures
Embrace the winter wonderland with exciting outdoor activities. Enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, dog mushing and other thrilling winter adventures in the Fairbanks area. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, the serene landscapes provide the perfect backdrop.

22.  Beautiful Flora and Fauna
Discover the diverse plant and animal life of Interior Alaska. Observe wildlife such as moose, caribou and cranes, and explore the ecosystems of the boreal forest and tundra. Explore the stunning variety of plants and flowers at a local botanical garden.

Photo courtesy of Running Reindeer Ranch.

23.  Reindeer Make Great Friends
Get up close with reindeer and learn about their unique adaptations to Arctic life. These enchanting animals offer a memorable connection to Alaska’s wildlife and culture. From quick meet and greets to walks through the boreal forest, spending time with reindeer is a must on your Fairbanks visit!

24.  A Tranquil Refuge on the Edge of Town
Wander trails through forests and wetlands at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. Located just minutes from downtown, stroll through the boreal forest while keeping an eye out for migratory birds and other local wildlife in their natural habitat.

25.  Robust Performing Arts Scene
Enjoy a variety of performances, from theater productions to musical concerts. Performing arts venues in Fairbanks range from traditional theaters and concert halls to an open-air venue in a meadow and everything in between.

Start planning your 2025 Fairbanks adventure at www.explorefairbanks.com

About Explore Fairbanks

Explore Fairbanks is a non-profit marketing and management organization whose mission is to be an economic driver in the Fairbanks region by marketing to potential visitors, optimizing the visitor experience, and advocating for a thriving year-round visitor industry. Explore Fairbanks markets Fairbanks as a year-round destination by promoting local events, attractions and activities to independent travelers, group tour operators, travel agents, meeting planners and the media as well as by developing public policy and infrastructure to achieve marketing objectives. Find out more at explorefairbanks.com.

Zicasso Report Shows Luxury Travel to be Defined by Cultural Immersion & Authentic Experiences in 2025

Adventure, African safaris, Authentic travel, Croatia, Cultural Immersion, Luxury, Sustainable travell, Thailand, Travel trends, Uncategorized, Zicasso

As we approach the end of the year, it is clear that 2025 will mark a significant evolution in how luxury travelers experience destinations worldwide. Luxury travel company Zicasso analyzed data from approximately 100,000 trip requests, mined thousands of verified Zicasso reviews, and performed a detailed survey of its key in-country travel specialists to determine next year’s biggest trends for planning and booking travel, as well as top interests, activities, and destinations.

Tajines in a pottery shop in Morocco. Courtesy of Wikimedia. Eb0la.

The resulting 2025 luxury travel trends report shows what we can expect luxury travel to look like in 2025. 

From observing how luxury travelers are pioneering new approaches to destination immersion to seeing the transformation of traditional seasonal travel patterns globally, Zicasso has identified how sophisticated travelers are reshaping the luxury travel landscape.

Topline conclusions from Zicasso’s 2025 report include:

The Global Shift to Spring Travel 

Spring has emerged as the new peak travel season, with May leading the charge as the most requested month worldwide. Nearly half (49.3%) of 2025 bookings are now concentrated in spring, signaling a significant shift away from traditional travel timing.

Deep Cultural Immersion Defines Luxury 

Luxury travelers are fundamentally changing how they explore destinations, with single-destination immersion becoming the primary approach worldwide. This trend is evidenced by longer average stays of 13.5 days and an average booking window of 188 days. The emphasis on cultural authenticity has become a key driver of booking success, with 76.3% of travel specialists reporting it as a priority for successful trips. 

Extended Seasons and Regional Evolution

Traditional travel seasons are transforming across the globe. From Croatia extending its season through October to Thailand seeing increased bookings in September and October, and demand for year-round African safaris over the traditional seasonal behaviors, destinations are adapting to the shifting preferences of sophisticated travelers. This change demonstrates luxury travelers are increasingly seeking optimized experiences over conventional timing.

Authentic Experiences Drive Destination Choice

From private wine tastings in Europe to artisan workshops in Asia, luxury travel is increasingly defined by authentic, hands-on experiences. This trend underscores a desire for meaningful, culturally rich moments—reflected in the 76.3% of bookings prioritizing authentic experiences.

A full version of Zicasso’s luxury travel report can be found at https://www.zicasso.com/assets/2025-Zicasso-Travel-Trends-Report.pdf.