by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 8:00 AM ET, Thu October 22, 2026
A new year is right around the corner, and that means a flurry of travel trends and predictions for 2027 are making headlines.
We’ve already seen predictions that 2027 will be the year of so-called ‘TripMaxxing’ and ‘Phone-to-table’ travel. (More on both of those developments here.)
And we’ve learned which destinations are likely to be the buzziest over the coming 12 months, attracting increasing numbers of travelers. (Vestland, Norway, we’re looking at you.)
Now, with just over two months before the calendar turns to 2027, we have yet another intriguing version of trend predictions. This one is courtesy of hoteliers from across the country. And their crystal ball includes everything from the rise of solo female business travelers to a shift to ‘secret season’ travel.
Read on to learn more about what those in the accommodations industry see coming for the year ahead in travel.
Secret season travel
What’s that? You’re not familiar with the so-called ‘secret season.’ Not to worry, neither was I until now. Apparently, this term refers to a time of the year that savvy travelers actively seek out, and it’s set to become one of the biggest shifts in how people experience national parks and nature-focused destinations.
“As travelers become more intentional about avoiding overtourism and looking beyond peak travel periods, they’ll seek cooler temperatures, quieter trails and a more immersive connection to the landscape, choosing moments when a destination feels quiet and undiscovered,” explains Nadia Santacruz, general manager at Red Cliffs Lodge Zion, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel.
“The first snow in the desert, fall foliage in the mountains or a spring morning on an empty trail could become the new bucket-list experiences, with shoulder season emerging as the preferred time to visit high-demand destinations like Zion National Park,” adds Santacruz.
The rise of the solo female business traveler
The growing number of women traveling solo is not exactly a new development. It’s been reported on repeatedly in recent years. But women traveling solo for work is a slightly newer offshoot of the broader trend.
“We’re seeing more women traveling solo for work and expect this to continue in 2027,” says Rosana Winarto, director of events at Hyatt Regency Denver. “In addition to having practical items available like makeup wipes and curling irons, this makes comfort, safety and thoughtful service especially important.”
The little things will still matter in hospitality
In a world of extravagant hotel amenities and over-the-top experiences, hotel industry leaders say the little things still matter to guests. And that will remain true in 2027.
“Impressive amenities make a hotel stand out, but I expect everyday details to remain just as important as the big-ticket amenities as travelers become more intentional about where they spend their time and money,” says Amanda Freeman, area business travel sales manager at Hyatt Regency Denver and Grand Hyatt Denver.
“Fast, reliable WiFi, complimentary coffee and discounts at hotel restaurants will continue to attract travelers who want travel to feel seamless, and personal touches like a handwritten note or thoughtful message help guests feel recognized and welcomed,” adds Freeman.
Retro is (still) having a moment
In case you missed the memo, retro and nostalgia travel have been experiencing a major resurgence in recent years. With humans far and wide exhausted by the digital world we find ourselves awash in, many of us are craving simpler times and more peaceful experiences. And that includes (or especially when) traveling.
That trend appears poised to continue well into 2027 and possibly beyond as AI continues to permeate all aspects of daily life.
“Retro-inspired events and familiar comfort foods are making a comeback,” says Eric LeClair, executive chef at Hyatt Regency Denver
“I think we’ll see more ‘80s themed dining experiences and the return of classic menu items like meatloaf and other nostalgic favorites that bring familiarity to the table.”
Wellness routines will increasingly travel, too
Wellness travel is another segment that has been booming lately. And according to hoteliers, it’s about more than getting facials and massages while traveling. It’s also about being intentional and maintaining health and nutrition routines while globetrotting. In the coming year, travel planners will integrate these desires into trips.
“Planners will build wellness into meeting agendas in budget-conscious ways, whether curating nutritious menus with flexible options or incorporating movement breaks and outdoor activities throughout the day,” says Rosana Winarto, director of events at Hyatt Regency Denver.
Business travelers will seek more than just business
Finally, 2027 will likely see more business travelers looking for flexibility to bring personal experiences into the trip. (Raising hand for this one. Because who wants to spend day after day in a conference room?)
“In 2027, the ability to balance work commitments with opportunities to explore and enjoy the destination will be a priority for business travelers,” says Stan Iliev, general manager of Le Méridien and AC Hotel Denver Downtown. “I expect business travelers to seek out hotels that deliver the same level of personalization and experience they would receive on a leisure trip.”
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