We spoke with some tourists about the feeling of arriving at a destination, and this is what they told us.
When it comes to choosing a vacation spot, tourists’ preferences can involve several considerations, including whether they want something quiet or busy, a beach or snow, art and culture or a party. According to the survey conducted at Can Cocollona, 69% of respondents prefer less crowded destinations, while 31% say their choice depends on the specific destination.
It seems that travelers lean more toward finding authentic and relaxed spaces rather than those immersed in noise and crowds, though this also depends on age, generation, occasion, group of people, and context. Therefore, saying that a large part of the population prefers to avoid crowds is a bit risky. What is certain is that those spaces that convey tranquility allow for a deeper connection with the surroundings and greater peace during the stay.
On the other hand, the 31% who base their preference on the destination suggest that the choice may depend on factors such as cultural offerings, accessibility, or available activities, regardless of the number of tourists. Preferences that reflect a shift in the expectations of more modern tourists, who value both the quality of the experience and the exclusivity of the environment.
“Personally, I prefer quiet spaces. I enjoy the serenity and natural beauty without the crowds. Less crowded places allow me to disconnect and relax better,” Ana, 32 years old, frequent traveler.
“For me, popular and busy destinations have their charm. I like the vibrant energy and the opportunity to meet other people. The dynamic of lively places makes my experience more exciting.” Luis, 45 years old, adventure lover.
“I find that quiet spaces are perfect for exploring local culture in depth. Without the crowds, I can better appreciate the details and immerse myself in the authenticity of the place,” Marta, 29 years old, cultural tourism fan.
“The hustle and bustle of tourist spots isn’t for me. I prefer to escape to more serene areas where the pace is slower, and I can enjoy peace and quiet. It’s an excellent way to recharge,” Jorge, 38 years old, flexible traveler.
“I’m drawn to cities and busy destinations. The variety of activities and street life mean there’s always something to do. I love the feeling of being at the heart of the action and discovering what’s happening,” Elena, 40 years old, urban tourism enthusiast.
These testimonials revealing tourists’ preferences, between quiet and busy spaces, show our diversity in wanting travel experiences. While some prefer the calm and serenity of less-visited places, others are drawn to the energy and activity of popular destinations.
However, our actions have consequences; regulation in the most crowded destinations should be crucial, considering the massive influx of people wanting to enter the most iconic spots.
Let’s remember that mass tourism presents significant challenges, such as infrastructure overload, environmental degradation, and cultural impact on local communities. This is why at CanCocollona, we promote #SlowTravel and traveling consciously and responsibly with the ecosystem.
Choosing less crowded alternatives not only allows for a more authentic and peaceful experience but also helps preserve the places we love. By traveling consciously, we can enjoy our adventures while protecting and respecting the environments and cultures that welcome us.
Keywords: tourist preferences, busy destinations, quiet destinations, tourist experience