Gen Z travelers are shaking up the travel industry, favoring off-the-beaten-path destinations over traditional tourist hotspots. From the rugged wilderness of Anchorage, Alaska, to the vibrant culture of Oaxaca, Mexico, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Azores, Portugal, these destinations offer unique adventures and unforgettable experiences.
Generation Z—those born between 1997 and 2012—are making waves in the travel industry this year, opting for unconventional destinations over traditional tourist hotspots. From hidden gems within the United States to remote islands across the globe, these locations offer a perfect blend of culture and adventure.
Adam Armstrong, the former CEO of Contiki, a travel company catering to individuals aged 18 to 35, shared with Newsweek that 'younger travelers are embracing spontaneous and unconventional trips with a definite 'if not now, when?' attitude.' According to Contiki's 2025 Voice of a Generation survey, which polled over 1,000 Americans within the company's target age group, a remarkable 70 percent of travelers are considering booking last-minute trips departing in less than 10 days. Instead of sticking to familiar tourist traps, they are choosing destinations off the beaten path—think the Philippines instead of the Maldives or Albania over Croatia, Armstrong stated. In fact, over half of these travelers crave off-the-beaten-path experiences, prioritizing unique adventures over typical tourist attractions. Newsweek delves into some of the destinations that Gen Z travelers are eager to explore in 2025. Anchorage, Alaska: The rugged wilderness of Anchorage, Alaska's most populous city, is drawing in Gen Z travelers. Recognizing 'a nod towards this year's biggest fashion trends,' Matthew Fox, CEO of LateRooms.com, told Newsweek that 'the fisherman aesthetic, rustic, weather-beaten towns are netting Gen Z travel interest.' Highlighting Anchorage's unique appeal, Fox said: 'If you want a city break that feels like an adventure, Anchorage should be on your radar. You can't match its rugged appeal and access to nature. From witnessing the northern lights to learning about the history of the area's Indigenous cultures, Anchorage is as raw and unfiltered as it comes.' He added that visitors can embark on glacier hikes or wildlife tours featuring encounters with reindeer and brown bears. For water enthusiasts, Anchorage also offers prime whale-watching opportunities. Oaxaca, Mexico: Oaxaca has emerged as a favorite among Gen Z travelers seeking a more intimate alternative to Mexico City. 'Oaxaca is another favorite for Gen Z travelers who are looking to immerse in Mexico's fantastic culture on a smaller scale than Mexico City,' Tara Cappel, founder of FTLO Travel, a travel company for solo travelers in their 20s and 30s, told Newsweek. She noted that 'it's reasonably accessible, safe and has some of the best food in the world.' Adding to Oaxaca's appeal is its surf town Puerto Escondido, Alonso Marly, a travel expert at Skylux Travel, told Newsweek. He describes it as 'a trending tropical destination with a great climate and rich culture.' Known for its 'untouched beaches and bohemian vibe,' the town offers everything from snorkeling and swimming among marine life to a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat and witness the release of newborn turtles, Marly noted. The Azores, Portugal: The Azores, a lesser-known archipelago in the Atlantic, is on the radar of Gen Z travelers, according to Lisa Lohmann, a retreat planning specialist at Lá Fora. 'The Azores, a hidden gem in the Atlantic, are capturing Gen Z's wanderlust. This archipelago of nine islands offers unforgettable experiences—hiking volcanic craters, exploring lush forests, or climbing Mount Pico for sunrise views,' she told Newsweek. With direct flights available from the U.S., the destination is gaining momentum among young travelers seeking convenience and breathtaking scenery. 'It's no wonder this destination is trending amongst Gen Z,' Lohmann said. Lohmann emphasized the diversity of experiences across the islands, noting that each island offers unique experiences, from camping on remote Corvo to volcano-cooked meals on São Miguel. 'Perfect for those craving adventure and Instagram-worthy landscapes, the Azores deliver nature and novelty in spades,' she said. Sumba, Indonesia: For years, Bali has been a top tropical destination, but as it becomes more crowded, Gen Z travelers are seeking alternatives. Sumba, a lesser-known Indonesian island, is gaining traction for its rugged coastline, serene beaches and extraordinary natural landscapes. 'Sumba is a truly spectacular island in Indonesia that has recently started attracting Gen Z tourists with its white sand beaches, sandstone cliffs, palm trees and turquoise waters,' said Marly. 'It is an emerging tropical destination I see becoming even more popular among those who want to experience an extraordinary adventure in the wilderness while surrounded by modern-day amenities.' Scotland, United Kingdom: Scotland's blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and bustling cities is captivating younger travelers. 'Scotland is really having a moment with younger travelers,' said Cappel
GENERATION Z TRAVEL TRENDS UNCONVENTIONAL DESTINATIONS HIDDEN GEMS ADVENTURE TRAVEL CULTURE NATURE
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