Survey Finds Travellers United in Love for Hidden Gems & Historic Destinations

According to the latest Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey, the majority of travellers share an appetite for discovery rooted in meaning rather than mass tourism. 

Nearly two-thirds (65%) of all respondents said they prefer hidden gems over iconic attractions. Women (69%) and non-US travellers (68%) were slightly more likely than men (64%) and Americans (64%) to seek out lesser-known treasures over tourist landmarks. 

When asked whether they choose destinations for historic significance or modern appeal, the vast majority (75%) selected history. Women again led the way (77%), slightly outpacing men (75%). 

“Today’s travelers are increasingly intentional,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies and a member of the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the US Department of Commerce.Richards. 

“They want experiences that feel authentic, immersive and personally meaningful — whether that means avoiding crowds, skipping the obvious stops or connecting more deeply with a destination’s history and culture.” 

The Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey also asked travellers whether they would embrace the next generation of supersonic passenger flights. It found that U.S. travellers are more eager to board a new, low-noise supersonic jet from New York to London than their international counterparts. 

Nearly one in three Americans (31%) said they would book a $3,500 round-trip ticket on a 3.5-hour flight, compared to just 26% of non-U.S. respondents. Women were more cautious than men, with only 27% saying they’d book the flight versus 30% of men and a larger share of women (39%) saying “maybe” compared to 34% of men. 

“The data show a clear curiosity about the return of supersonic travel after a two decade absence, but travellers remain practical and cautious,” said Richards. “For many, speed is appealing, but not necessarily worth the cost or the unknowns of a brand-new travel capability.”