We’ve always tried to be one step ahead of travel trends, and 2025 is no different. When it comes to deciphering what’s ‘in’, what’s ‘out’ and what’s worth paying attention to, the Original Travel team have their fingers firmly on the pulse. If you’re hoping to stay ahead of the curve, then read on to find out what’s hot, and what’s not, in travel right now.
What’s hot?
Michelin Eurostars
We’re loco about Eurostar’s new premium dining menu. Reflecting the best of Europe’s sustainably sourced ingredients (and wines), the seasonal menu transforms train rides into a delicious journey worth taking. Four courses, two Michelin stars and one very excellent way to start a trip to the culinary capital of the world and beyond.
Itwineraries
We always recommend direct flights (fewer take-offs = fewer emissions), but what do we do when that’s not possible? Introducing ‘itwineraries’, where you can turn a layover into a stayover and enjoy a mini break in the connecting city. Think soaking in the city sights of Madrid, Lisbon or Istanbul before arriving at the more exotic climes of Indonesia or Southeast Asia. An irresistible two-for-one.
Maps
The old-school map is back. A whole new generation is plotting their adventures on paper maps rather than GPS. Whether to free themselves from the prison of power-source reliance, keep a physical record of their journey or simply switch off from the outside world, we’re all for the nostalgia-evoking comeback. The burning question: Can they master the lost art of the ‘refold’?
Trains
Happy 200th birthday to the modern railway. Thanks for all the scenery and games of eye spy, for speeding us up, but also reminding us to slow down and look around once in a while. From slicing through Sri Lankan tea hills to winding around Norwegian fjords, there really is no better way to sit back and admire the great outdoors.
What’s not?
‘Changi’ng out
Apparently, people are booking flights with intentionally long connections in Singapore’s Changi Airport to enjoy the facilities. These include the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, yoga classes (since when was an airport ever the time or place to relax?) and a cocktail-making workshop. If you know these people, kindly put them in touch. We can give them much better ideas. Next slide please.
The Mediterranean
Controversial opinion incoming: the Med is dead (in summer, at least). Avoid scorching temperatures with a ‘coolcation’ instead; swap sizzling in Spain and melting in Malta for Norwegian fjords, Swedish archipelagos or snow-capped Dolomites. Who needs a tan, anyway?
One-week family holidays
We’re all going on a (six-week) summer holiday. More families are using the long summer break for a mini sabbatical, taking the children away on an epic, multi-destination trip. Need inspiration? Hop around Indochina for culture and culinary delights, hanging your hat in Hanoi, Hoi An, Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Beats a week in Bognor.
Faceboarding
In a new addition to the puzzling world of AI, your face is, quite literally, your passport. Several airports are trailing ‘faceboarding’; using facial recognition in lieu of a passport. Will it work reliably? Since a new hairstyle can stump (human) security, we can but dream – at least there’s no possibility of leaving your face at home.
Header Image: Mango Street Lab/Stocksy. Body Image: Mathieu Richer Mamousse.
