“Noctourism” is a rising travel trend in which travelers seek unique after-dark experiences. According to Booking.com, nearly two-thirds of travelers are interested in destinations where they can enjoy activities such as stargazing, attending cosmic events, and observing constellations. This trend became more prominent as people recently splurged on accommodation and transportation to observe the solar eclipse. Additionally, journeys to witness the Northern Lights, hunting for truffles, and enjoying starlit picnics are expected to become increasingly popular among tourists.
CEO Jay Stevens highlighted that Noctourism is poised to transform the travel industry by providing night owl travelers with extraordinary nighttime adventures. A significant portion of travelers are willing to schedule trips without artificial light to reduce light pollution and protect the environment. Climate change concerns are one factor driving this trend, with many travelers looking to avoid the heat and high temperatures during the daytime. To cater to this demand, more than half of travelers are now planning activities in the evenings or early mornings to escape the sun’s rays.
Booking.com’s Travel Predictions research indicates that many travelers are seeking to redefine their travel experiences and engage in the world in new ways. For instance, bookings in Tromso, Norway, a popular destination for Arctic trips to see the Northern Lights and whale watching, have increased significantly over the past year. The city has seen a surge in popularity, with numerous airlines adding more flights to meet the growing demand. Norway’s tourism industry is thriving due to a commitment to showcasing natural wonders and improving flight connectivity from various European cities.
The environmental concerns of travelers are also driving the trend of “coolcations,” where individuals seek cooler destinations for their vacations to escape the heat. This trend often aligns with Noctourism, as people look for ways to enjoy unique nighttime experiences while embracing eco-friendly practices. According to Booking.com, a majority of travelers are interested in visiting destinations with reduced light pollution and lower temperatures, demonstrating a shift towards environmentally conscious travel choices. By planning trips that incorporate nighttime activities and minimize daytime exposure to the sun, travelers are seeking to make their vacations more sustainable and impactful.
As travelers increasingly prioritize unique experiences and environmentally friendly practices, Noctourism is becoming a key trend in the tourism industry. With a growing interest in nighttime adventures, stargazing, and celestial events, destinations like Tromso, Norway, are seeing a surge in bookings and travel interest. By combining eco-conscious travel choices and cool destinations, travelers are reshaping their travel experiences and seeking to create lasting memories while reducing their impact on the environment. In the coming years, Noctourism is expected to continue shaping the future of travel as night owls seek out new and exciting ways to explore the world after dark.
