Dodgy travel trends for 2012

Fancy a Stupification in 2012? How about a bit of McTouring, or a Statuscation? Intrepid Travel has released a list of travel trends that we all hope don’t enter the urban dictionary in the coming year…

No. 1 – McTouring

Let’s be realistic – travel isn’t cheap. Yet people save their hard-earned money and vacation time to travel halfway around the world to see new sites, take in new culture and eat at western fast food chains? While there’s something to be said for the comforts of home, there’s surely a time and a place. We don’t have to convince the foodies around the world, but Intrepid hopes never to see a trend towards travel that embraces the globalisation of food.

No. 2 – Statuscations
You can check in, tag your friends and up the bragging rights on all of the amazing things you’re seeing and doing while abroad – all with the flick of a finger. However, there’s no need to miss your own vacation to ensure your friends at home are jealous. There will be plenty of time for that when you return! So take a second, turn off the smart phone, raise your head and make sure you’re not one of the many people too obsessed with updating their status to actually experience your travels.

No. 3 – Divacation

Your luggage is carried, doors open before you and not a day passes without a fresh set of towels awaiting you in the shape of a swan, turtle or terrycloth heart. Yes, it’s easy to feel like royalty while travelling, but is it really worth it when the locals are your loyal servants? Avoid the destinations that cater to a demanding and pushy tourist. Stop acting like the Queen of the Castle, and take some time to chat with the locals, hear their story and ask what it’s like to live in their country. You’d be surprised what you may discover.

No. 4 – Apptouring
We don’t deny that technology is becoming increasingly prevalent and that it makes life a lot easier. Want to check a train schedule? There’s an app for that. Want to check in for your flight? There’s an app for that. Forgot to wax? There’s an app for that! Well, maybe not yet. It’s so easy to succumb to the convenience and ease of apps and technology, yet this comes at a cost of a loss of frivolity, curiosity and the ability to roll with the punches. Don’t forget to explore while travelling. Rely on your own instincts to show you where to go, what to see and get lost in the wonder of a new destination.

No. 5 – Stupification
No, this is not a mind-numbing spell by the likes of Harry Potter – we’re talking about the times when you drink yourself so silly, you forget the experience all together and waste a day lazing around as a slave to your hangover. There may be some incriminating photos, but these barely qualify as evidence to add to your travel album of life-long memories. We’ll never deny the enjoyment of taking in the local flavours and quenching your thirst – just make sure it’s not at the cost of self-induced amnesia as you drink yourself under the table.