Minor Hotels Travel Trends Report Highlights Growing Focus on Connection in 2026
Travellers are reassessing how they explore destinations, seeking experiences that create emotional, social and personal resonance, according to a newly released report from Minor Hotels.
The inaugural Minor Hotels Travel Trends Report, titled “Travelling Deeper: A Search for Lasting Connection,” examines how travellers are redefining connection — with others, with destinations and with themselves. The report also outlines how hospitality brands are shifting from providing service to enabling meaningful engagement through travel.
Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, parent company of Minor Hotels, said: “Today’s travellers are looking for stories, connections and purpose. Our trend report reflects the growing interest in authentic engagement and conscious travel choices. For Minor Hotels, this is an opportunity to continue shaping experiences that encourage wellbeing and cultural understanding.”
Outlook for 2026
Travel sentiment for 2026 shows steady confidence. According to the report, 94% of respondents expect to travel the same or more compared to 2025, and one-third plan additional trips. A similar percentage plan to maintain or increase their travel budgets, with 47% expecting to allocate more for travel. Among luxury travellers, 61% anticipate increased travel frequency.
Value and Planning
Travellers are favouring quality experiences that provide personal value. Affordability influences decisions for 53% of respondents, followed by seasonality (42%), ease of travel (40%) and availability of time (40%).
More than half (53%) book trips within three months of departure. Hotel websites remain the leading planning resource for 80% of travellers, followed by personal recommendations (35%) and online travel agents (29%). Emerging tools such as generative AI chatbots are now used by 12%.
Connection With Others
Travel in 2026 leans toward shared experiences. Most respondents plan to travel with companions, including partners (66%), immediate family (46%) and friends (32%). Quality time is the leading priority for 86% of travellers. Dining (67%), relaxation (54%) and cultural activities (55%) are the preferred shared experiences, while 56% prefer activities limited to their immediate group.
Personal Wellbeing
Travellers are also reserving time for individual rest and reflection. Seventy-one percent believe disconnecting from technology, social media, or work is essential during travel. Wellness and mindfulness integration is planned by 44% of respondents, rising to 73% among those already engaged in wellness practices. Spa treatments (75%), nature activities (59%) and fitness (49%) are key preferences. Additionally, 37% seek personal time even when travelling with companions.
Food as Cultural Connection
Food remains the primary entry point into local culture for 85% of respondents. Historic architecture (71%) and nature (65%) also guide exploration. Local immersion influences destination choices for 83% of travellers. Independent exploration is preferred by 79%, while 44% consider guided tours. When travellers feel a sense of personal connection to a destination, 76% say they are likely to return.
Values and Conscious Travel
Responsible hospitality is increasingly influencing decisions. Forty-seven percent say a hotel’s sustainability practices guide their choice of accommodation. Most respondents indicate that environmental, cultural and social initiatives enhance their sense of connection to a destination. Guests are increasingly interested in brands that support informed, responsible travel.
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