Cooling Holidays: A New Trend in the Face of Global Warming

IN SHORT

Global warming : Alarming findings on rising temperatures.
Traditional beach vacations become less appealing in the face of extreme heat.
Cool holidays : An attractive alternative to recharge your batteries.
Discovery of destinations cold Or mountainous as a new trend.
Positive impact on health and well-being: better air, outdoor physical activities.
Ability to savor experiences authentic away from the heat.

With temperatures rising and heat waves becoming more and more frequent, many travelers are starting to rethink their relationship with summer vacations. What if, rather than seeking the warmth of the sun, we turned to getaways in search of freshness and unspoilt nature? Imagine stays in lush green forests, near crystal clear lakes or in refreshing mountains, where every breath of air brings an escapist breeze. Faced with the climate emergency that is forcing us to rethink our habits, adopting fresh holidays could not only offer us a well-deserved respite, but also help to preserve our precious resources and support ecological initiatives. With this in mind, exploring destinations that prioritize freshness might just become our new obsession.

A new approach to heat waves #

As periods of extreme heat increase across the world, the idea of going on a cool vacation takes on a whole new meaning. Escaping scorching temperatures becomes not only a question of comfort, but also of health and well-being. For many travelers, it is no longer just about getting away from it all, but about finding more temperate refuges.

Households are turning to destinations where their summer experience does not result in a constant battle against the heat. Regions such as Cotentin, there Normandy or the Breton coasts are starting to attract more and more visitors in search of cooler and more pleasant climates. This quest becomes a strategic and tactical response to increasing summer temperatures.

Trends for 2023: a turning point in vacationers’ choices #

Travel trends are evolving, and several indicators show a shift in vacationer preferences. According to recent studies, the regions which have recorded the largest increases in tourist overnight stays in France include:

Brittany
Normandy
Pays de la Loire

These destinations stand out for their green landscapes, moderate climates and the possibility of outdoor activities without experiencing excessive temperatures. Conversely, traditionally popular regions such as Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur are experiencing a drop in attendance, which reflects an adaptation of behavior in the face of climate change.

The concept of “climate refuge” #

The term “climate refuge” is emerging to describe these spaces where residents and vacationers can protect themselves from the effects of warming. This notion is gaining momentum as people become aware of the impacts of their environment on their quality of life. For many, the choice of a destination is now influenced by considerations such as:

Seasonal weather forecasts
Availability of facilities suitable for a temperate climate
Outdoor leisure activities without overheating

This has led to a notable increase in bookings in destinations offering pleasant temperatures, reflecting a desire to adopt a more sustainable and adapted lifestyle.

Informed choices for responsible vacations #

Adopting a cool vacation not only has advantages for personal comfort, but also ecological benefits. Indeed, choosing less frequently visited destinations can reduce pressure on overcrowded tourist spots. Many retirees on the Mediterranean coast, for example, are now looking for alternatives to the scorching summer climate.

“Cool holidays” can also encourage a more sustainable mode of tourism, combining relaxation and respect for the environment. Initiatives aimed at promoting eco-friendly travel practices are flourishing and attracting travelers concerned about the impact of their carbon footprint.

A necessary change in our habits #

As the impacts of global warming are increasingly felt, adopting this new mentality around vacations in the fresh air becomes inevitable. It is a development that marks a collective awareness. As consumers, we have this opportunity to redefine our choices, encourage responsible tourism practices, and eventually create tourism that is not only beneficial for us, but also for our planet.