Although the term ‘revenge travel’ – the urge to travel to make up for lost time in lockdown – has gained some popularity globally over the course of the pandemic, a recent survey by G Adventures suggests Aussie and Kiwi travellers are actually prioritising ‘reconnection travel’ – defined as reconnecting with the planet and its people – when they take their next adventure travel tour.
Well, thank goodness for that.
Personally, the whole ‘revenge travel’ thing has been triggering me in a major way.
I could never understand how the word revenge as a verb, meaning; ‘to exact punishment or expiation for a wrong on behalf of, especially in a resentful or vindictive spirit; to take vengeance for; inflict punishment for’ could or should possibly apply to travel?
Surely that’s just bad karma?
If addressing the desperate climate crisis isn’t enough of a challenge for the world, why on earth would we now want to gain any kind of revenge on the places and communities we visit post-pandemic?
I mean, I get the concept behind it, but seriously, ‘reconnection travel’ is so much more considerate and meaningful as a mantra for our travels.
Thankfully, a recent survey by G Adventures has unearthed the same sentiment when it comes to travel changing the world for the better.
The survey* polled more than 500 travellers in Australia and New Zealand on their intentions for their post-pandemic travel plans and found that at 41 per cent, reconnection travel is the clear frontrunner in people’s minds for post-pandemic travel.
The survey also found that an overwhelming 93 per cent of travellers said travel is important to their wellbeing and mental health, indicating they are looking to take their next holiday in a way that not only helps them reconnect but optimises travel as a means of revitalisation, too.
Of all the travellers surveyed globally, those living down under were the only ones to vote ‘revenge travel’ as their second motivator at 16 per cent, with revitalisation travel – a desire for their next holiday to be about personal well being – sliding in third at 12 per cent, against a global average of 18 per cent.
When it comes to reconnecting, 47 per cent of Aussies and Kiwis want to take time out from their devices and social media, with a further 26 per cent expressing that socialising and meeting new people is their top wellbeing priority.
Additionally, 45 per cent of those polled cited needing a holiday to help alleviate pandemic-related stress or burnout from work – lower than the global average of 53%, but still a significant percentage.
Apparently, balance is essential, with 67 per cent of Aussies and Kiwis wanting to be physically active on their next holiday, and 37 per cent prioritising rest and relaxation.
Bruce Poon Tip, founder, G Adventures, says the company’s most recent research proves travellers are more considered than ever when making their holiday decisions.
“What this new survey is showing us is that travellers are more intentional with how they select their holidays – it’s clear people want to reconnect with people and the planet when they travel again, and to ensure their personal wellness is a focus as they do so.
“The term ‘revenge travel’ does seem to resonate with our friends down under more than in other countries around the world, for obvious reasons with the local measures in place. I don’t disagree with the concept of people fighting to reclaim something they have lost, but I am equally pleased to see reconnection travel trump revenge travel, seeing there is so much opportunity for tourism to be a positive force for change in the world,” says Poon Tip.
The key takeaways? Remember these words… Reconnection, revitalisation, balance, activity, socialising and wellness.
Sounds like the only way to travel to me.
G Adventures is offering discounted active trips available for travellers to reconnect with themselves and the world and look after their wellbeing by being physically active.
- Thailand Hike, Bike and Kayak – This adventure will have you hiking through forests and rice paddies, cycling through provincial villages, and experiencing Thailand’s intriguing combination of culture and the great outdoors. Kayak the turquoise waters of the Andaman and discover coral coves and white-sand beaches. Was priced from $2,249pp** now priced from $1,912pp for a 14-day trip from Bangkok return.
- Trekking Mont Blanc – This challenging hiking circuit will reward you with mesmerising views of glaciers, steep valleys, and, of course, Mont Blanc itself. Travel across high passes and through Alpine meadows, recharging at night with delicious mountain cuisine in simple refuges. Was priced from $2,099pp, now priced from $1,784pp for a 10-day trip from Chamonix return.
- Inca Discovery – Perfect for those looking to experience the region’s archaeological and cultural treasures in a short amount of time, this adventure includes a four-day trek along the Inca Trail. This is one of the world’s best-known hikes and will reward those willing to break a sweat with a stunning combination of mountainscapes, cloud forests, and jungles. Was priced from $1,679pp now priced from $1,427pp for an eight-day trip from Lima to Cusco.
- **Prices in AUD and do not include international flights. For inclusions, see links above.
All need to be booked by August 31, 2021, for travel by December 15, 2022.
For more info, head to www.gadventures.com
*Survey results are based on 540 responses from Australians and New Zealanders who are part of G Adventures’ global consumer panel, of which two-thirds are former travellers. The survey was in-field from July 09 – 16, 2021.