2023 promises to be a renaissance in the travel world. The types of journeys being sought-after, however, are different. The pandemic ushered in a wave of nostalgia that carried over to the music and film industries. Travel is no other. Many travelers are pining for a bygone period when traveling the globe was a kinder, simpler, and more civilized experience as travel makes a triumphant post-pandemic comeback.
Eager to recoup losses, travel companies are paying attention. According to GoogleTrends, searches for “golden age hospitality” have increased by 250% over the last year. Savvy agencies are responding by promoting a celebration of travel’s glory days.
Contiki
Leading social travel company Contiki started in 1962 with one bus, one driver, and a handful of clients. With a continuously-evolving rotation of unforgettable trips for young travelers, they maintain a laid-back dedication to establishing lifelong friendships through memorable travel experiences. The company’s original carpe diem spirit continues to propel the company onward. For 2023, Contiki is introducing The Big Original tour, a 60-day journey around Europe and Africa. They will visit 19 nations in honor of its 60th anniversary. It’s an epic trip that will only be accessible in 2023, from the bottom of the Mediterranean to the top of the Swiss Alps.
Luxury Gold
Upscale holiday provider Luxury Gold aims to recreate the travel era. The 12-day, ultra-luxurious Ultimate Italy itinerary whisks visitors through an abundance of alluring vineyards and timeless towns. The tour starts on the iconic art deco Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, whose original train coaches have been restored to their classic glitz. Travelers will begin in Rome and stop at well-known locations like Florence, Pompeii, Umbria, and Capri on the way to Venice, where they will enjoy a private water taxi ride through the city’s legendary canals and an exclusive after-hours visit to the Doge’s Palace.
Holland America
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, transatlantic trips by Holland America Line brought one in ten immigrants from Europe to the United States. The company is relaunching a unique transatlantic voyage in April 2023 to mark its 150th anniversary. Following Holland America Line’s maiden voyage rearward, guests can experience sailing then and today. Between New York and Rotterdam, passengers can enjoy one-of-a-kind onboard entertainment and lectures from maritime historians that explore the origins of the Dutch company. The Main Dining Room menus will provide traditional entrees evocative of meals served a century ago. A must-attend Throwback Happy Hour with cocktails priced to the heyday of the brand’s launch—as low as 25 cents—will roll back the decades to come cocktail hour.