Expedia’s newest report shows this is the year of “flexcations”

The confident side of me likes to think I’m a trendsetter. In the case of travel, Expedia’s new 2023 Q1 “Traveler Insights Report” has me feeling reassured. After all, prioritizing tropical locales and taking lengthy trips abroad with my laptop in tow has always been my MO. The new report reveals such sentiments are on the rise, thanks to me, obviously. 

The rise of the “flexcation”

Before working remotely was the standard, I chose to freelance (because offices, yuck!) But things have clearly changed, and people are taking note. Insights from the Traveler Value Index 2023 study showed that 28% of consumers are looking to take longer trips that mix remote work and play—a “flexcation” if you will. 

“Travelers have also been using the ‘business-friendly’ filter on Expedia.com and Hotels.com significantly more to find accommodations with amenities like Wi-Fi and breakfast,” notes the report. 

Travelers are going south

As someone who grew up in Maine, finding warmth was a pastime growing up. Even now, as a SoCal gal, the idea of posting up on a stretch of sand with a cocktail in hand has become my idea of the ultimate holiday (let it be known I despise the Jimmy Buffet vibe). According to the Expedia report, the cliché that is a snowbird continues to shine, with the appeal of warm weather dominating winter travel plans in Q4. Some of the top destinations searched include Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Mexico. 

• From New York in March, you can book a roundtrip flight to Puerto Rico for as low as $200. 
• From Denver in April, you can book a roundtrip flight to Cancun for as low as $294. 

Experiences are influencing trips 

While I’m more into the “nothing-cation” type of trip, which just so happens to be on-trend, too, Expedia’s new report revealed that activity-based trips are building steam. Will this be the year you embark on a culinary adventure in Tuscany? Personally, I’d like a wine-tasting tour in Portugal, and this three-day Porto guide may have sealed the deal.