The new year calls for new journeys. But which destinations are a must during the next 12 months? Travel blogger Charlotte Noël shares with you six fun travel trends!

Originally published on A.S. Adventure

1. Sustainability as a standard

According to Charlotte, sustainability is not so much a trend, but the norm for all trips she undertakes. As the face behind TravelRebel.be, she believes that she, along with all other influencers, has the strength to put a positive stamp on the sector.

“I do not see myself as an eco-warrior, but as an ethically sustainable adventurer,” she says. “The United Nations Environment Program showed that barely half of every $100 a tourist spends stays in the local economy. ”

Charlotte is convinced that every traveler can put his or her share of goodness in the bag. Among other things, using as little plastic as possible at the local destination can help immensely. “Say no to plastic straws and bring your own version,” she suggests. “Choose travel clothing made from sustainable materials or recycled PET. And, above all,  carry your own drinking bottle instead of buying plastic bottles from the store! We have to change now if we want the next generation to also get the chance to explore this inspiring globe.”

 “We have to change now if we want the next generation to also get the chance to explore this inspiring globe.”

2. Trending countries

The big question that haunts many minds: what are we going to attract in 2019? Charlotte speaks from her own experience when she pushes Nicaragua forward. “Due to the political situation, the country experienced a huge decline in tourism,” she explains. “But do not let that stop you: the bright blue water and untouched nature makes this an indescribably beautiful and pleasant place to visit. Another destination that will soon to gain importance is São Tomé and Principe on the west coast of Africa. It is a green pearl that is also mentioned in the top 10 destinations of Lonely Planet. In the same list you also find Belize –  a must for backpackers who are looking for the Central American feel!”

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3. Trending city trips

Admittedly, we all also have a penchant for city trips. Charlotte states that Marrakesh is currently very popular, and this will not change any time soon. “I was there three weeks ago, and I really enjoyed the lively souks, medina and delicious hammam,” she says.

Furthermore, there are also a number of European destinations on the wish list of the modern traveler. Charlotte recommends Copenhagen, which boasts top restaurant Noma, as the cream of the crop. “A must for the winter,” she exclaims. Wrapped in thick scarves and hats, the cosiness of this Danish capital blanketed under a layer of snow and dotted with trendy tea and coffee shops, makes Copenhagen a topper. But let’s not forget Berlin: “I lived there for a while, so I can wholeheartedly encourage everyone to live there as a local. Only then will you really feel that unique vibe that prevails there.”

4. Traveling with a camper

Curious about a new kind of travel? Who knows, maybe a trip with the camper is something for you. Although Charlotte tried this out while traveling through France, Spain and Portugal, you can also do a motorhome trip outside Europe. “New Zealand, West America and Canada are the perfect destinations for such a motorhome experience,” confirms Charlotte. “It gives you endless freedom to travel at your own pace and you become completely at one with nature.”

5. Parent-child journeys

Want to bond with your son or daughter (or with your mum or your dad)? Parent-child journeys are gaining popularity and are ideal for a good dose of quality family time! “Such experiences guarantee memories that nobody will ever take away from you,” says Charlotte. “I try to do trips with my mother as often as I can, or I go motorcycling or snowboarding with my father. A must!”

6. Nano trips

The most ‘it’ trend of 2019: nano trips. These are very short trips that you can take close to home, or just a bit further away. A theater evening with a hotel stay after which you explore a new city is a good example. “Perfect for those who think they do not have time for major journeys. A sense of adventure is just as important in a small trip,” concludes Charlotte.

“Urgently want more adventure in your life, but no time or money to make all your travel plans come true? Then venture into a micro adventure, ideal to break the rut!”