How Cruising and Bleisure Travel Are Shaping North American Tourism in 2025

Rising Interest in International Travel from the U.S. and Canada

International travel among North Americans is on the rise, with U.S. tourists planning an average of 2.8 international trips in the coming two years and Canadians aiming for about 2.2 trips. Notably, U.S. travelers are boosting their expenditure on overseas vacations by around 10% compared to the previous year, signaling greater enthusiasm for exploring destinations abroad, while Canadian spending remains steady.

Safety and Travel Decisions

When it comes to choosing travel destinations, safety and stability now top the list of concerns, outpacing even budget considerations. Roughly one-third of American tourists have adjusted their travel plans because of economic tariffs, with over a quarter canceling trips altogether. Canadians, meanwhile, show a shifting preference by becoming less inclined to visit the U.S. in the near future, reflecting evolving dynamics of cross-border tourism.

Impact on Tourism Choices

This greater sensitivity to safety and external factors plays a role in how travel agents, tour operators, and destinations strategize their offerings to appeal to more cautious but eager travelers looking for secure and pleasant experiences.

Magic of Ocean Cruising Seizing the Spotlight

The allure of ocean cruising has surged impressively in recent times. Today, nearly 78% of Americans și 61% of Canadians express a keen interest in cruising, marking a significant 12-point jump over the prior year. This growth is especially driven by younger travelers yearning for adventurous routes, such as those in Africa and Asia, while traditional cruises around Europe and the Caribbean continue to charm older generations.

From Scenic to Exotic

While the Caribbean remains a sun-seeker’s paradise due to its proximity and climates, emerging markets like Africa and Asia are gaining traction for those travelers with a mind to chase unique adventure and culture.

Bleisure Travel: When Business Meets Pleasure

The hybrid trend of combining business trips with leisure activities, known as bleisure travel, has taken root firmly. An impressive 88% of U.S. travelers and 78% of Canadians admit to extending their business trips for some leisure time. This trend not only benefits hotels and local attractions but also inspires destinations worldwide to tailor their services to meet the needs of work-and-play travelers looking for seamless experiences.

Why Bleisure Matters to Tourism

This blend of business and pleasure enriches the tourism landscape, introducing extended stays and higher spending, which in turn fuels growth for tour operators and hospitality sectors. On platforms like GetExperience.com, travelers can even submit custom requests for tours that fit perfectly into their bleisure plans, enhancing personalization and convenience.

The Return of Professional Travel Advisors

Despite the digital revolution, the complexity of modern travel has driven a resurgence in the use of travel advisors. Around two-thirds of Americans now plan to employ a professional advisor in the next couple of years, a notable jump from just under half previously. Millennials are particularly keen on expert support, especially when organizing intricate trips such as multigenerational family vacations.

The Advantage of Expert Support

Travel agents provide peace of mind and logistical help, handling everything from flights to tour packages. This is key in an era when travelers demand tailor-made experiences and value efficiency.

Premium Travel Preferences Continue to Grow

There’s an unmistakable tilt toward premium travel in North America: over a third of U.S. international travelers regularly opt for business or first class, up from a quarter the year before. Many are savvy enough to take connecting flights for better deals, highlighting how travelers balance comfort with cost – a strategic approach to maximize their holiday time and experience.

• 34% fly business or first class regularly
• 25% were premium flyers the previous year
• Many accept connecting flights for better value

What This Means for Tourism

This willingness to invest in comfort while being cost-conscious affects how airlines, hotels, and travel packages are designed, creating markets for both luxury and economical travel options.

Survey Insights

The data stems from a mid-2025 survey of over 2,000 adults in the U.S. and Canada with recent international travel history and plans. Notably, half of the participants enjoy household incomes over $100,000, reflecting the significant spending power driving these trends.

Summary of Key Findings

Experience Makes the Difference

While studies and surveys offer excellent insight into travel trends, nothing beats experiencing these adventures first-hand. Platforms like GetExperience.com specialize in helping travelers connect with verified providers offering a wide range of travel experiences—from safari tours to luxury cruises and cultural workshops—providing convenience, affordability, and a variety of options tailored to individual tastes.

At GetExperience.com, payments are secure, backed by voucher confirmations, and travelers can customize tour requests to match their preferences, ensuring no surprises or extra costs. This transparency and ease of use make planning your next journey a joyful part of your adventure.

Rezervă-ți călătoria la GetExperience.com to find the best offers and tailor your travel experiences.

Gânduri finale

The rising popularity of cruising and bleisure travel among U.S. and Canadian tourists highlights a dynamic shift in how travelers approach international trips. With a strong emphasis on safety, quality experiences, and blending business with leisure, the travel landscape is evolving to meet these changing demands. The continued use of professional advisors and a preference for premium options underscore a traveler base that values both expertise and comfort.

As this trend develops, there is a wealth of adventure activities, luxury adventure travel experiences, eco-friendly wildlife safaris, and interactive cultural workshops opening up for eager tourists. Whether planning a serene cruise package, an exhilarating rafting trip for beginners, or engaging in professional esports training sessions within a tour, the modern traveler has unprecedented choices to create unforgettable memories.

In a world filled with data and reviews, the true essence of travel comes from living the experience yourself. And with platforms like GetExperience.com, booking your next journey is both simple and rewarding—so the adventure can begin right from the moment you plan.