New Travel Trends Hong Kong Will Embrace in 2026: Road Trips, Romantasy, and Glow-Cations

Published on December 1, 2025

As we approach 2026, Hong Kong travelers are set to explore a new era of travel. With a growing demand for personalized experiences, the latest trends reflect a blend of adventure, nostalgia, and technology. According to the latest “Travel Predictions 2026” survey by Booking.com, travelers are seeking destinations and experiences that reflect their unique interests, from romantic “romantasy” retreats to high-tech, automated accommodations. Here’s a look at the most exciting travel trends Hongkongers can expect in the coming year.

1. Romantasy Retreats: Travel into Your Favorite Fantasy Worlds

A trend that’s gaining significant traction is romantasy travel—a blend of romance and fantasy that allows travelers to immerse themselves in mythical worlds. From snow-capped mountains to ancient castles, fans of this genre are eager to visit destinations inspired by the stories and places they adore in books and films. This interest is especially high in Hong Kong, where 85% of travelers are open to booking stays in storybook locations or visiting filming spots of their favorite fantasies. This type of travel allows them to live out the romantic adventures they’ve only read about.

2. High-Tech Holiday Homes: The Future of Vacation Stays

The future of vacation homes is becoming increasingly automated. 88% of Hong Kong respondents are keen on staying in high-tech homes equipped with humanoid helpers like cleaning bots and robotic chefs. These futuristic accommodations not only offer convenience but also a personalized, tech-powered vacation experience. With the rise of AI and automation, travelers are looking for places where technology meets comfort and luxury.

3. Road Trips: Flexibility and Spontaneity Take the Wheel

Forget the traditional road trips with friends and family. In 2026, 88% of Hongkongers are embracing spontaneity by exploring new destinations via self-driving cars or even carpooling with strangers. This trend reflects a desire for freedom on the open road, allowing travelers to change their itinerary on the fly. 82% of travelers appreciate the flexibility, while 77% are excited about meeting new people along the way. Surprisingly, older travelers, including Baby Boomers, are more likely to embrace AI-powered route planning compared to younger Gen Z travelers.

4. Glow-Cations: Pampering and Skin-Care Focused Travel

In line with the wellness boom, a new trend has emerged—glow-cations. These vacations are all about personalized pampering, with 86% of Hong Kong travelers interested in booking skin-specific treatments tailored to their skincare needs. Whether it’s a facial treatment at a luxury spa or a wellness retreat designed for self-care, travelers are prioritizing relaxation and rejuvenation in 2026.

5. Tasty Souvenirs: The Appeal of Culinary Keepsakes

Hong Kong travelers are increasingly drawn to culinary souvenirs, with 77% expressing interest in purchasing items such as hand-painted spice jars, artisan olive oil, or local kitchenware. 66% are also open to visiting destinations known for their culinary crafts. These tangible mementos allow travelers to take a piece of their journey home, reflecting the growing trend of culinary tourism.

6. Nostalgic Travel: Recreating Precious Memories

In 2026, nostalgic travel is on the rise, with 77% of Hong Kong travelers keen on using technology to recreate their favorite memories. Whether it’s identifying the exact spot from an old photograph or revisiting a childhood destination, this trend taps into the emotional connection travelers have with their past. With the help of technology, creating memories that align with personal history is now easier than ever.

7. Astrological Travel: Letting the Stars Guide You

Astrology and moon phases are becoming a guiding force for travelers, with 72% of Hong Kong respondents saying they would consider changing their travel plans based on astrological advice. This trend highlights the desire for deeper connections during travel, as spiritual practices like astrology take a front seat in decision-making.

8. Relationship Testing on Holiday: Testing the Waters

As travel becomes more about personal experiences, many Hong Kong travelers are using vacations as an opportunity to test the strength of their relationships. Whether it’s a romantic, platonic, or even professional relationship, 73% of travelers are open to visiting remote locations to test how well they and their companions can handle discomfort and uncertainty. This trend is particularly popular among Gen Z, with 86% embracing customized itineraries designed to challenge their connections.

9. Foraging for Food: A Unique Culinary Experience

With 88% of Hong Kong travelers open to staying at hotels where they can forage for their meals, it’s clear that nature-based experiences are becoming more desirable. Whether it’s picking wild herbs or learning about local edible plants, foraging is not only a fun activity but also a sustainable way to experience a destination’s natural offerings. This aligns with a broader trend of seeking out peaceful retreats where nature plays a central role.

10. Milestone Travel: Celebrating Personal Achievements

In 2026, travelers are increasingly seeking vacations that celebrate personal milestones rather than traditional holidays. Whether it’s celebrating a promotion, sobriety, or even closure after a breakup, 70% of Hongkongers are choosing to take breaks simply because they feel they’ve earned it. This trend reflects a more personal, self-celebratory approach to travel, focused on individual growth and achievement.

Conclusion: A New Era of Personalized Travel in Hong Kong

As Hong Kong travelers look forward to 2026, the desire for unique, personalized experiences is driving many of the top travel trends. From exploring fantastical landscapes in romantasy retreats to enjoying tech-enhanced stays, the future of travel in Hong Kong is about creating meaningful connections, both with the places visited and the people encountered. Whether it’s the appeal of road trips, glow-cations, or foraging in nature, travelers in Hong Kong are embracing a new era of adventure, wellness, and self-expression on the road.