What would be the travel 20 years from now?

Looking 20 years into the future, Futurologist Ray Hammond, on behalf of Allianz
Partners, has predicted what the travel industry will look like, in ”The World in
2040” Series.

“The face of travel as we know it will change dramatically over the next 20 years,”
predicted Hammond. “It looks as if the travel industry is set for a long period of
prolonged growth.” He added: “Travel will also become more about rejuvenation,
adventure, fulfillment and learning new skills rather than just ticking off places to
see from a list.”

Virtual reality drives more real-life travel.

According to the report, multi-sensory virtual reality technology will allow

armchair travelers to step into virtual hotel rooms, visit street carnivals, explore
museums, or walk into restaurants from the comfort of their own living room.
Sustainable air travel takes off.
The report predicts that air travel will be “far more economical in fuel usage than
today’s jet aircraft, and a significant number of planes will be flying on sustainable
aviation fuel – jet fuel derived from biomass.”
The rise of high-speed rail.
By 2040, cross-border train journeys will be smoother and improved in many
parts of the world. Computer networks and the Internet of Things (IoT) will
manage national and international rail networks, allowing trains to run faster and
closer together. Train speed will also increase on most rail networks, with most
high-speed trains running at above 125 mph.

The report predicts visitor numbers will likely be controlled by reducing

accommodation capacity; charging visitors for entry; pre-booking with fixed
numbers; subsidizing fewer flights; restricting cruise ship visits; and promoting
less well-known areas. Travelers will also likely have to book in advance and will
have to buy a ticket that grants access to a particular site or destination on a
particular day at a specific time to prevent overcrowding.

“It will be vital that the travel industry offers tourist experiences that are
sustainable and environmentally responsible,” said the report.