how to vacay in 2020
We know how you’ll be vacaying next year, even if you don’t yet…
UNDERTOURISM
Before you book a mini break next year, you might want to get Google Maps out first. With so many places suffering from millions of visitors tramping through them each year, popular destinations are actively discouraging tourists. Barcelona is halting the expansion of its airport and clamping down on Airbnb rentals, Bruges is limiting cruise ships to a maximum of two per day, and Venice is considering entry fees. In response, undertourism is set to become a buzzword, as travellers are seeking out alternative locations that are often cooler and always less crowded than their famous cousins. So, this year, try swapping Venice for the waterside town of Annecy in France (above), and Barcelona for its hip Portuguese counterpart, Lisbon.
NAKATIONS
In a world where many of us are chained to our desks and addicted to our phones, it’s no wonder we are being advised to get out and explore nature more. But a stroll in the woods is not going to cut it in 2020 – you need to think bigger… and nuder. Shedding your clothes is said to help you find connections and feel liberated, so perhaps try wild swimming? You could also book a stay at a nude yoga retreat or a “clothing optional” resort, such as Cypress Cove Resort in Kissimmee, USA or Hidden Beach Resort, Mexico.
SELF-DISCOVERY VACAYS
With all of us much more mindful of our mental health, there is a growing trend for adventure breaks that allow you to expand your mind as well as the number of stamps on your passport. Solo travel involving a mind-blowing adventure is on a lot of people’s bucket list for good reason, so maybe 2020 is the year you finally go trekking in Lithuania or visit remote tribes in India. If you’re searching for inspiration, check out Tui Tours (Gotui.com), where you’ll find a host of trips that offer unique local experiences and excursions.
BOOZE-FREE BARS
The sober scene is gaining momentum in the same way veganism did in 2019. In the UK, there are now 5.4million non-drinkers and the worldwide market for non-alcoholic beer is set to double by 2024. Non-alcoholic bars, where you can enjoy a night out in a booze-free environment, are popping up in cities – Redemption in London, and Listen Bar and the super-chic Getaway Bar in New York to name a few – and you can also find sober raves and karaoke nights, which are expected to be big business next year.
THE GLAMPING REVOLUTION
Glamping has come a long way in recent years and many boutique options are now more luxe than a bricks-and-mortar hotel. The options are endless – yurts, bubbles, gypsy caravans, eco huts and safari tents, many of which feature luxe linens and roll-top tubs. Luxury hotel group Aman is opening its first tented hotel, Camp Sarika in Utah, in April 2020. Closer to home, glamping websites such as Glampinghub.com, Coolcamping.com and Canopyandstars.com have everything you need to tailor the perfect getaway.