A Smarter Way to Travel
Imagine standing at the Acropolis at sunrise, the golden light washing over ancient stones as birdsong fills the air - no crowds, no rush, just history unfolding around you. According to the AARP’s 2025 Travel Trends survey, 55% of American travelers over 50 crave more personalized experiences like this - and tailor-made travel makes it possible. A new breed of personalized travel companies are making this possible by connecting you with local experts who live and work in your vacation destination. These experts craft flexible itineraries that let you skip the crowds and go beyond the guidebooks. Whether it’s exploring Athens’ Acropolis when it opens at 7:45am or discovering tucked-away tavernas known only to locals, these thoughtful suggestions make each journey more immersive, less stressful, and truly unforgettable.
The Rise of Experiential Travel
Experiential travel is booming. Google Trends reveals that searches for cooking classes (+20%), hiking holidays (+19%), and food tours (+7%) are all on the rise - a clear sign that travelers are craving richer experiences. For travelers like Arieyeh Austin, who explored Greece with TravelLocal, these experiences deliver unforgettable memories.
“TravelLocal Greece truly made our trip unforgettable! Their exceptional familiarity with the area added a special touch to our journey. From recommending the best guides to providing us with personalized insights, their attention to detail was outstanding.”
Arieyeh Austin
Why Local Knowledge Matters
Personalized travel isn’t just about logistics and convenience - it’s about discovering moments that stay with you for a lifetime. Huw Owen, Co-Founder of TravelLocal says that "By partnering you with local experts in your destination, we build every trip around your preferences - from early access to iconic landmarks, to handpicked guides who know the real stories behind the sights. Personalization helps you discover the destination on your own terms.”
Supporting Local Communities
There’s an added bonus: TravelLocal’s model of working directly with local travel experts means that your trip also supports small, independent businesses. In the past year alone, TravelLocal travelers have redirected $50 million into local economies - money that might otherwise have been lost to global middlemen. “More and more travelers, especially those over 50, are looking for meaningful, authentic experiences,” says Owen. “That might be a cooking class with a local chef, a hike with a specialist guide, or dinner at a family-run taverna. These moments don’t just make your trip better - they also help communities thrive.”
As Earth Day Approaches…
…this is travel that works for everyone. Yes, it supports local communities and avoids the pitfalls of overtourism. But more than that, it gives you the kind of journey you’ll talk about for years - personal, thoughtful, unforgettable.
Ready to make your next adventure unforgettable? Explore tailor-made travel at www.travellocal.com.
