APL Media’s trend coverage for 2025 highlights key shifts in travel, lifestyle, food, technology, beauty and home interiors. The insights from National Geographic Traveller (UK) and Living360 reveal emerging trends and consumer preferences. 

TRAVEL 

1. Cruising is getting cool, thanks to Gen Z 

Resident DJs, late-night dancing and Instagram-worthy settings are signs of a new generation enjoying night outs on cruises. Leading cruise companies are targeting Gen Z and Millennial travellers, who now bring friends rather than family. Cruises, traditionally associated with set mealtimes and predictable entertainment, haven’t always appealed to younger adventurers craving new experiences. By offering shorter cruises and adding modern activities like food photography workshops, the industry aims to attract more activity-focused Gen Z and Millennial travellers. 

Read more on National Geographic Traveller (UK) 

2. TikTok travel, Cowboy-Core and off-peak deals 

Amid economic uncertainty and volatile weather, travel is expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels. While overtourism still affects ecosystems, trends like off-peak travel are gaining momentum for a lower price point and avoiding extreme (hot) weather. Some seek ‘destination dupes’ such as Albania as an alternative to the popular destinations such as Greece. Off-grid experiences like campfires and horse-riding are popular for those desiring space. On the other hand, the divide between incomes has split accommodation trends into perk and freebie-driven subscription models, while the ultra-luxury sector introduces complimentary mini bars and monogrammed pillows as a new standard. 

Read more on National Geographic Traveller (UK) 

FOOD 

1. From supercharged sandwiches to clarified cocktails, this is what we’ll be tasting in 2025 

In 2025, appetites are becoming more adventurous after years of cost-of-living crises and global lockdowns. Gourmet sandwiches are pushing the limits of creativity, while clarified cocktails, soju, and Limoncello gain popularity. Affordable snacks like crisps and instant noodles are being elevated to fine dining. Bookshop bars now offer wine lists and small plates along with literary recommendations. 

Read more on National Geographic Traveller (UK) 

2. Hen parties for booze-free brides 

Health-conscious generations are moving away from alcohol, favouring anti-ageing serums and super-green juices. Brides now prefer beauty rest over wild hen parties. They opt for spa days and outdoor activities instead of pub crawls. Nature-focused brides enjoy hiking or lavender-picking at local farms. Wellness retreats, yoga raves and spa treatments provide relaxation before the big day. Creative workshops like life drawing, pottery, mocktail, or cooking classes prove that fun hen parties can be booze-free. 

Read more on Living360 

TECH 

Artificial Intelligence and TikTok  
AI is becoming more intelligent and integrated into daily life by 2025. Consumers benefit from systems like ChatGPT for personalised tasks, while AI influences process automation, training, and dynamic pricing. Anthropic’s new beta model competes with ChatGPT, potentially booking holidays autonomously. Jeremy White, of Wired, notes its current slowness but expects it to speed up. TikTok has a significant impact on travel choices, with a 410% rise in travel content views since 2021, continuing to guide travelers on destinations and activities. And then there’s DeepSeek…  

Read more on National Geographic Traveller (UK) 

BEAUTY 

Zara’s perfume dupes 
Affordable alternatives to expensive travel and fragrances are popular this year. Zara, a Spanish clothing retailer, offers budget-friendly perfumes similar to Mugler’s Alien Goddess and YSL’s Black Opium. However, scent longevity and accuracy can vary between each dupe. Experts suggest checking ingredients, as cheaper options may use synthetic oils that cause skin irritation. 

Read more on Living360 

HOME 

Battling the winter blues with home interiors 
Winter can be challenging for those suffering from seasonal affective disorder (a type of depression triggered by seasons). To combat this, experts suggest creating a bright and inviting home. Open curtains and blinds during the day, arrange furniture near windows and incorporate warm colors like yellow and orange. Adding cosy textures, pleasant scents and houseplants can also help improve mood in 2025. 

Read more on Living360 

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About APL Media    
An award-winning publisher and content marketing agency founded in 1997, APL Media Limited has been changing the narrative, and the way clients communicate with their audiences, for over 27 years. In addition to publishing the award-winning magazines National Geographic Traveller (UK) and Food by National Geographic Traveller (UK) and organising related events under the National Geographic brand umbrella, APL Media produces print, digital and live media across the travel and lifestyle sector. aplmedia.co.uk