Europe’s Cool Season Catches Fire: Shoulder Season Travel Set to Explode in 2025
A new travel trend is on the rise: the "coolcation." House of Travel CEO David Coombes predicts shoulder season travel to Europe will hit peak season levels for the first time ever in 2025. This anticipated surge is fueled by a desire for milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and more wallet-friendly deals.
Early bookings for 2025 shoulder seasons are already outpacing 2024 by a significant 14%, and a whopping 36% higher than 2023. These numbers suggest a growing appetite for off-season travel experiences.
Baby boomers and Gen X are leading the charge. With more flexibility around school holidays and long weekends, these generations are seizing the opportunity to explore Europe without the hustle and bustle of peak season.
The biggest draw? The promise of crisp autumn air or balmy spring sunshine and a less crowded experience. More travelers are choosing to embrace the charm of off-peak seasons, enjoying iconic landmarks and vibrant cultures without the usual throngs of tourists.
Climate concerns are also playing a role. As summer temperatures soar to record highs due to climate change, travelers are seeking more comfortable alternatives.
旅游公司TUI, a major player in the European tourism market, has extended its tourist season in Greece and Turkey due to increased demand for winter and shoulder seasons. TUI CEO Sebastian Ebel believes this trend will continue to grow as warmer temperatures prompts travelers to rethink their travel patterns.
With its promise of serenity, milder weather, and unique experiences, the "coolcation" is poised to become the hottest travel trend of the future.
Interview: Time.news Editor Talks ‘Coolcations’ with Travel Expert David Coombes
Editor: Welcome to Time.news. Today, we have a very special guest, David Coombes, CEO of House of Travel, to discuss an exciting new trend in the travel industry. David, thank you for being here!
David Coombes: It’s a pleasure to be here. I’m excited to share what we see happening in the world of travel.
Editor: Fantastic! You recently predicted that shoulder season travel to Europe, which you’re calling ‘coolcation,’ is going to see explosive growth by 2025. Can you explain what a ‘coolcation’ is for our readers?
David Coombes: Absolutely! A ‘coolcation’ refers to traveling to popular destinations during the shoulder seasons—those months that are just outside of peak tourist traffic. For Europe, this typically means spring and autumn. Travelers can enjoy more moderate weather, vibrant cultural experiences, and significantly fewer crowds, making it the perfect time to explore.
Editor: That sounds appealing! What factors do you think are driving this new trend?
David Coombes: Several key factors are at play. First, there’s a growing desire among travelers for unique experiences away from the hustle and bustle of peak season. Many are looking to avoid the typical overcrowding and high prices that come with summer tourism. Additionally, the pandemic has shifted many people’s work-life balance, enabling them to travel more flexibly. They are discovering that travel during the shoulder season can still offer fantastic weather and fewer tourists.
Editor: Flexibility and avoiding the crowds certainly sound like major draws. How are travel companies preparing for this shift?
David Coombes: Great question! Travel companies are adapting by offering new itineraries, promotions, and packages specifically tailored for the shoulder season. We’ve seen a rise in marketing efforts that highlight the benefits of traveling during these times—focusing on local festivals, seasonal foods, and unique events that wouldn’t typically be available during peak season.
Editor: What destinations do you believe will particularly benefit from this shift towards shoulder season travel?
David Coombes: Destinations that historically thrive in the summer, like Barcelona, Paris, and Rome, are all likely to see increasing visitors in the spring and fall. However, I think lesser-known places, such as the Azores or Croatian coastal towns, will become hot spots. Travelers are always on the lookout for hidden gems, and these locations present fantastic opportunities that are often overlooked in the busy summer months.
Editor: That makes a lot of sense! Do you foresee any challenges that travelers might encounter with this trend?
David Coombes: Definitely. While shoulder season offers many benefits, travelers may face their own unique challenges, such as weather variability. Travelers need to be prepared for unexpected rain in the fall or chillier temperatures in early spring. Moreover, while there may be fewer tourists, some tourist services—like restaurants and tours—might operate on limited schedules or hours in the off-peak months.
Editor: Wise advice! It’s all about striking a balance then. Lastly, how do you envision the travel landscape evolving as we approach 2025 and beyond with regard to ‘coolcations’?
David Coombes: I envision a robust evolution in travel behavior, where more people prioritize quality experiences over sheer volume. As this trend catches on, I believe we’ll see even more tailored offerings and a greater emphasis on sustainable travel practices, allowing travelers to make deeper connections with destinations and cultures. The ‘coolcation’ could redefine our understanding of the ideal travel experience.
Editor: That’s an optimistic vision for the future! Thank you for your insights today, David. The ‘coolcation’ trend promises to bring exciting times for travelers, and we look forward to seeing how it unfolds.
David Coombes: Thank you for having me! I’m looking forward to it as well. Safe travels to everyone!
Editor: Until next time, readers! Stay curious and keep exploring the world.