Authentic travel: Put down your phone and pick up your passport

Canada

You know what I’m like. My phone is basically glued to my hand. If I’m not replying to messages, I’m booking someone’s dream trip or checking in with clients abroad. It’s part of the job and I wouldn’t change it. But even I know when it’s time to switch off and step out into the real world. And more and more of you are telling me the same.

2025 is all about authentic travel. Real people. Real places. Fewer pings and notifications. We’re all craving a bit of calm, a bit of connection and a proper break from the digital noise.

What’s behind the travel detox trend

We spend so much time scrolling, streaming, messaging and working from a screen that we’ve forgotten how good it feels to just stop. No emails. No endless WhatsApp chats. Just being present in a place that makes you feel alive again. And it’s not just about turning off your phone - it’s about switching on your senses.

Where are people heading

Travel is getting quieter, slower and more intentional. Think Namibia’s deserts, the Canadian Rockies or Bhutan’s remote trails. Or places closer to home like Cae Mabon in North Wales or Finca Can Martí in Ibiza for those eco-retreat vibes.

Wellness escapes are popular too. SHA Wellness Clinic in Spain or Euphoria Retreat in Greece are ideal to reset body and mind. I’ve also had lots of interest in places like BodyHoliday in St Lucia. It’s all about digital detoxing, feeling fabulous and embracing the kind of holiday where you actually come home more relaxed than when you left.

And how about staying in one of those fancy mirror houses in Estonia, surrounded by forest instead of WiFi signals. Now that’s a proper change of scenery.

It’s not just about nature - it’s about people too

So many of you are telling me you want genuine cultural experiences. Not the touristy stuff. Things like staying in homestays or local guesthouses. Learning to cook salt fish in Barbados or weave baskets in Tunisia. Hopping on local buses instead of big group coaches. Joining small group tours where you meet real people, make new friends and actually talk to each other. Shocking, I know.

It’s about connecting with a destination properly. Feeling it. Living it. Not just ticking it off.

Small group travel is booming

Travelling solo but still want a bit of company? Want to keep costs down but don’t fancy hostels? Small group adventures are where it’s at.

You get the safety and support of being with others. Local guides with real insider knowledge. Proper downtime when you want it. And let’s be honest - shared laughs and new friendships you’ll remember forever.

Unplug. Reconnect. And see the world as it really is.

If 2025 is your year to stop doom scrolling and start soul strolling, I’m here for it. Let’s find the trip that helps you breathe, reset and feel inspired again. Whether that’s a detox escape in Europe, a mindful adventure in Asia or a remote retreat closer to home.

Let’s swap screens for sunsets. You ready?

Namibia