Over the past 18 months, travel has evolved amid shifting 'new normals.' Recent developments are set to shape our 2022 trips. Drawing on a Booking.com survey of over 24,000 travelers across 31 countries—including the Netherlands—combined with proprietary data and expert analysis, we've identified key predictions for the year ahead.
Dutch wanderlust is surging: 52% more respondents now view 2022 as the time to embrace unpredictability and reclaim lost vacations compared to last year. These seven trends highlight a 'seize-the-day' mindset, prioritizing mental health, local communities, fresh experiences, and bold 'yeses' as travelers rediscover the world and create lasting memories.
After endless 'no's, 2022 travelers crave positivity and spontaneity. 77% of Dutch respondents plan to ditch rigid itineraries for 'go-with-the-flow' adventures, embracing surprises with a resounding 'yes.'
Over half (53%) will say yes to any appealing option within budget; 42% are more open to new vacation types post-pandemic, and 59% prioritize trip style over destination.
The pandemic deepened local ties—more park time, support for neighborhood businesses. This mindset extends to vacations: 46% of Dutch travelers want their trips to benefit destination communities. Additionally, 56% prefer spending that supports locals, and 59% seek authentic cultural experiences.
Social responsibility is rising. In 2022, 36% will research accommodations' local business support, and 32% will evaluate tourism's community impact—ensuring vacations uplift residents.
Remote work blurred home-office lines, but 62% of travelers aim for total work disconnection in 2022 to restore balance. Even 58% prefer shorter, fully immersive getaways over longer ones interrupted by emails.
With 42% working more and vacationing less during the pandemic, expect a mass exodus from home offices for well-earned rest.
Uncertainty lingers, but tech builds confidence: 53% of Dutch travelers credit it with easing travel anxiety. Demand grows for predictive tools—56% want services forecasting safe destinations or easy-access alternatives.
Flexibility remains key: top priorities are no-money-lost guarantees (45%), free cancellations (43%), and change options (37%).
Travel trumps workouts or meditation for self-care—63% of Dutch respondents say it boosts mental and emotional health more. 49% only realized travel's vital role after restrictions hit; 75% report uplifted mood from planning alone.
Why? 21% thrive leaving comfort zones—66% via new environments, 41% new lifestyles, 51% novel cuisines, 37% unfamiliar languages. Variety heals post-18 months of routine.
Recall your first flight or hotel check-in? Post-stagnation, 73% of Dutch travelers will savor every 'first' anew—train-window gazing, alleyway wanders for keys.
Mundane joys like sun on skin (76%) or water views (66%) lift spirits instantly; even navigating foreign transit thrills 43%. 2022 travel means relishing the now.
2022 travel expands horizons and circles: 50% of Dutch want to meet strangers. Holiday romances revive too—34% hope for love abroad, with video calls turning flings into keepers.
