A traveller embracing slow travel and enjoying views of a waterfall. Picture: Unsplash
In 2025, the world of travel is poised for an evolution, one that fosters personal growth, connection and understanding of our global landscape.
Olivier Perillat-Piratoine, Managing Director of Club Med South Africa, emphasises that travel is no longer merely about exploring new places; it's an opportunity to immerse oneself in diverse cultures and to make a meaningful impact.
The expert shares some experiences to add to your travel resolutions for 2025.
Seek out meaningful and authentic experiences
Perillat-Piratoine advocates for a fresh approach to travel, encouraging adventurers to seek out meaningful and authentic experiences in the destinations they visit.
"Imagine the value of learning patience through traditional crafts, discovering humility in the face of ancient wisdom, and cultivating cultural sensitivity simply by listening to communities' stories," he explains.
By engaging with local cultures, travellers can revel in the richness of experiences that extend beyond typical tourist attractions.
To embrace authenticity, he recommends participating in local festivities, volunteering for community projects, or spending evenings with locals around a fire — moments that reinforce the bonds of humanity and shared experiences.
"Choose to be a traveller, not a tourist — someone who seeks to understand rather than judge, who respects rather than imposes," he asserts.
This shift in mindset can lead to profound insights and cherished memories.
Be a responsible traveller
Moreover, the call for responsible travel resonates louder than ever as global tourism reaches staggering figures, with over 1.4 billion international arrivals each year, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council.
Perillat-Piratoine stresses the importance of individual responsibility in preserving our planet and uplifting local communities.
Responsible travel goes beyond reducing one’s carbon footprint; it involves making conscious choices that protect cultural heritage and support local economies.
He added that as a responsible traveller, you should ensure that your service providers have:
Green Globe certification: A recognition of sustainability initiatives focusing on energy and water conservation.
Community engagement: Partnerships with local suppliers and artisans to bolster local economies.
Eco-friendly practices: Efforts to phase out single-use plastics and engage in sustainable construction.
The expert added that by prioritising responsible travel, each traveller contributes to a movement that not only safeguards the environment but also enriches the communities that make each destination special.
Seek out slower, longer travel experiences
Perillat-Piratoine also predicts a shift toward slower, longer travel as remote work and digital nomad visas transform how we explore the world.
"In 2025, resolve to slow down and savour your destinations. Instead of cramming a whirlwind itinerary into a week, spend a slow month in a place you’ve always dreamed of," he suggests.
Countries like Mauritius and Portugal facilitate this trend, allowing travellers to blend work with leisure seamlessly.
With private villas, personal amenities, and tranquil workspaces, these exclusive accommodations provide the perfect retreat to balance productivity with adventure, nurturing a greater appreciation for our surroundings and the dear ones we travel alongside.
For those seeking alternative holiday options, Perillat-Piratoine advocates for choices that foster positivity — such as volunteering, supporting wildlife conservation efforts, or giving back to communities recovering from setbacks.
"Travel in 2025 can be both fulfilling and transformative. It creates unforgettable memories while nurturing respect for our planet and the communities that call it home," he concludes.