After years of “revenge travel” and stress-filled vacations, bucket lists, and social media photos, a new philosophy is emerging in travel: the “Joy of Missing Out” (JOMO) – or, in other words, the joy of doing nothing. In the world of JOMO, luxury is not about catching up on everything, but about enjoying exactly what you need.
According to a YouGov survey on behalf of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), more than 7 in 10 travelers are now choosing more relaxed, thoughtful, and “conscious” getaways, leaving FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) – the fear of missing out – behind them.
From “I’m rushing to catch up” to “I enjoy what relaxes me”
While 71% of respondents admitted that on previous trips they tried to see and experience “as much as possible”, over a third (35%) said they returned home exhausted rather than refreshed. The result? 77% plan to travel more slowly and with greater awareness in the future.
For 67%, JOMO is an act of self-care – an opportunity to disconnect, relax and free themselves from the pressure of “shoulds”. The need for authenticity and inner peace is also reflected in preferences: freedom from obligations (52%), contact with nature (48%) and days without a schedule (39%).
Caribbean at the top of preferences
The survey highlighted the Caribbean as the top JOMO destination (30%), thanks to the slow pace of life, quiet beaches and close contact with nature it offers. Cruises, in fact, are considered by 54% of travelers as the ideal environment to live this experience to the fullest.
The future of travel: fewer “shoulds”, more substance
Norwegian Cruise Line, with destinations in more than 350 locations worldwide, seems to capture the spirit of the times: less rush, more freedom, relaxation and connection with oneself.
