LONELY Planet has unveiled its list of top 10 predictions for the future of tourism, highlighting new areas of travel as well as trends that are already emerging.
The travel media company was commissioned by IATA to identify 10 predictions for travel in commemoration of the 100th year of commercial air travel.
One area that Lonely Planet expects to see more of is a demand for unplugged travel or travel without Internet access, a trend that seems to counter the prevailing desire to be connected everywhere.
Ecotourism and voluntourism are also set to grow with a new generation of environmentally conscious travellers. Lonely Planet stated that 70 per cent of travellers expect companies to demonstrate a commitment to preserving the natural environment.
In that light, technology could also free travellers from use of paper as more airlines offer online check-ins, and integrated smartphones form the most important tool for planning and tracking travel.
Online reviews are likely to remain important to travellers, but as they seek more authentic and off-the-beaten-track experiences, face-to-face recommendations from locals will also become an important source of how to enjoy a destination.
Given that flights are cheaper and faster than ever before, travellers have better access to international festivals and can take advantage of an international calendar of events.
Other trends Lonely Planet predicts will emerge include travel as an integrated part of everyday life; improved economy flight products; more leisure activities within airports; the rise of experience hotels that offer something extra; and virtual travel, for instance Google Street View, for planning.
