ALL Accor unveils the 8 trends set to redefine experiential travel in 2026

Core Insights - The report by ALL Accor and Globetrender identifies eight key trends in experiential travel for 2026, reflecting a shift towards emotional experiences rather than geographical destinations [2][4][6] Group 1: Trends Overview - The essence of travel is evolving, with a focus on deeper meaning and emotional connections guiding journeys [4] - 25% of travelers prefer to start their online search based on 'mood', indicating a significant change in travel preferences [2] - The report is based on a comprehensive study involving 4,300 travelers across nine countries [6] Group 2: Eight Key Trends - Endorphin Economy: Travel is driven by awe and shared experiences, with 89% of travelers valuing live events as essential [7][8] - Hyper Playgrounds: Travelers seek immersive and playful environments to escape the hyper-productive daily life, with 31.5% looking for hotels with bold designs [11][13] - Portable Lifestyles: 95% of travelers want to maintain their routines while traveling, reflecting a desire for freedom and flexibility [14][15] - Social Wellness: 84.5% of travelers seek deeper connections, with wellness experiences becoming collective rather than solitary [17][19] - Memory Lanes: 87% of travelers feel nostalgic for simpler times, seeking tangible experiences that reconnect them with the past [20][21] - Earth Syncing: 59% of travelers feel disconnected from nature, leading to a desire for experiences that foster serenity and connection with the Earth [23][25] - Unfiltered Journeys: 63.5% of travelers avoid overhyped destinations, preferring authentic experiences that allow for spontaneity [26][27] - Points Maxxing: 72% of travelers value access to unique experiences through loyalty programs, transforming rewards into emotional passports [28][30] Group 3: Strategic Implications - The report emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology, including AI, to enhance guest experiences and foster deeper connections [4][27] - ALL Accor's loyalty program is evolving to focus on emotional engagement rather than just point accumulation, offering unique experiences [10][28]