Generation Z is reshaping the travel landscape in 2025, embracing spontaneous trips and destinations off the beaten path. This article explores the unique travel preferences of Gen Z, highlighting destinations like Anchorage, Alaska, Oaxaca, Mexico, the Azores, Portugal, Sumba, Indonesia, and Scotland, that are attracting a younger generation of adventurers.
Generation Z, individuals born between 1997 and 2012, are redefining the travel landscape in 2025, opting for unconventional destinations over traditional tourist hotspots. This generation of adventurers is drawn to hidden gems in the United States and remote islands worldwide, seeking a perfect blend of culture and thrilling experiences.
Adam Armstrong, the former CEO of Contiki, a travel company catering to those aged 18 to 35, observed that younger travelers are embracing spontaneous and unconventional trips, fueled by a strong 'if not now, when?' mentality. According to Contiki's 2025 Voice of a Generation survey, which polled over 1,000 Americans within their target age group, 70 percent of respondents are considering last-minute trips departing within 10 days. This trend signifies a departure from the usual tourist destinations. Gen Z travelers prefer off-the-beaten-path experiences, choosing locations like the Philippines over the Maldives or Albania instead of Croatia. Armstrong highlights that over half of these travelers prioritize unique adventures over typical tourist attractions.Anchorage, Alaska, with its rugged wilderness, is attracting Gen Z adventurers. Matthew Fox, CEO of LateRooms.com, points to the 'fisherman aesthetic' and 'rustic, weather-beaten towns' that resonate with younger travelers seeking adventurous city breaks. Fox emphasizes Anchorage's raw and unfiltered appeal, offering experiences from witnessing the northern lights to learning about Indigenous cultures, glacier hikes, wildlife tours featuring reindeer and brown bears, and prime whale-watching opportunities. Oaxaca, Mexico, presents a more intimate cultural experience compared to the bustling Mexico City. Tara Cappel, founder of FTLO Travel, a company catering to solo travelers in their 20s and 30s, describes Oaxaca as a reasonably accessible and safe destination with exceptional cuisine. Alonso Marly, a travel expert at Skylux Travel, adds that Oaxaca's surf town, Puerto Escondido, is a trending tropical destination with a great climate and rich culture. Known for its 'untouched beaches and bohemian vibe,' Puerto Escondido offers activities like snorkeling, swimming with marine life, dolphin sightings, and witnessing the release of newborn turtles. The Azores, a lesser-known archipelago in the Atlantic, is gaining popularity among Gen Z travelers seeking convenience and stunning scenery. Lisa Lohmann, a retreat planning specialist at Lá Fora, highlights the Azores' unique experiences, from hiking volcanic craters and exploring lush forests to climbing Mount Pico for sunrise views. Direct flights from the U.S. are making this destination more accessible to young adventurers. Sumba, Indonesia, is emerging as an alternative to the crowded Bali, offering rugged coastlines, serene beaches, and extraordinary landscapes. Marly describes Sumba as a 'spectacular island' with white sand beaches, sandstone cliffs, palm trees, and turquoise waters. Finally, Scotland's combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant cities is captivating younger travelers. Cappel notes that Scotland is particularly popular among Gen Z
Gen Z Travel Trends Unconventional Destinations Adventure Travel Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences Anchorage Alaska Oaxaca Mexico Azores Portugal Sumba Indonesia Scotland
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