Four Key Tourism Trends Shaping Travel in 2026
Romanian travellers continue to shift towards long-haul destinations and premium travel products, a trend that became clear in 2025 and is expected to strengthen in 2026. According to data from J’Info Tours, evolving consumer preferences and the growing role of technology will define travel choices in the year ahead. Four major trends are expected to shape the tourism market in 2026.
1. Growing demand for cruises
Cruise travel recorded growth of around 25% in 2025 compared to the previous year, with early bookings for 2026 and 2027 confirming continued interest. Romanian travellers are increasingly planning cruises well in advance and opting for longer itineraries that cover multiple destinations in a single trip.
While many first-time cruisers chose short 2–5-night trips in 2025, bookings for 2026 indicate a shift toward 7–10-night cruises, typically starting at EUR 400 per person on an all-inclusive basis. Mediterranean itineraries remain popular, with routes including Spain, Tunisia, France, and Italy. At the same time, Caribbean cruises—covering destinations such as the Bahamas, Barbados, Aruba, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago—are gaining traction. Interest in Alaska is also emerging, supported by increased long-term bookings for the summers of 2026 and 2027.
2. Long-haul destinations lead holiday choices
Long-haul travel is consolidating its position as a preferred option for 2026, following strong growth in 2025. Interest in destinations across Asia, Africa, and South America rose by more than 30% compared to traditional European trips.
In 2025, destinations offering strong cultural identity and authentic experiences attracted Romanian travellers, with China emerging as a leading choice, supported by the removal of tourist visa requirements. For 2026, interest within Asia is diversifying, with growing demand for destinations such as Vietnam and Mongolia, alongside countries including New Zealand, Fiji, Costa Rica, Belize, Cambodia, and Myanmar.
Travel decisions are increasingly guided by factors such as cultural depth, natural environments, and local experiences, rather than standard urban tourism.
3. Increased interest in safari and nature-based travel in Africa
Late-2025 booking data indicate rising early demand for safari tours and nature-focused itineraries in African destinations, including Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Uganda, Rwanda, and Madagascar.
At the same time, North Africa is gaining attention, particularly Algeria, which Romanian travellers have visited less frequently. For 2026 departures, demand for Algeria and Tunisia has increased by approximately 40%, indicating growing openness to destinations with historical depth and diverse cultural influences.
4. Digitalisation and AI influence travel planning
Technology is playing a larger role in shaping travel behaviour. To meet demand for more personalised and efficient booking processes, J’Info Tours plans to invest between EUR 150,000 and EUR 200,000 in artificial intelligence solutions across its digital platforms.
These developments will support personalised destination recommendations, advanced offer filtering, cost simulations, itinerary optimisation, and 24/7 virtual assistance. The integration of AI tools with travel consultant expertise is expected to reduce booking times and improve decision-making.
The company estimates that investments in digitalisation and AI could drive at least a 30% increase in turnover in 2026, supported by faster conversions and improved digital engagement.
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