As we bid farewell to 2023 and eagerly anticipate the dawn of a new year, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving landscape of travel and culture. At DC Global Talent, where we specialize in recruiting for the dynamic hospitality industry, we understand the significance of keeping pace with trends. In this six-week series, we will unravel the top six trend predictions for travel and culture in 2024. Today, we embark on a fascinating journey into the first trend: the Age of Awe.
Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder
Dacher Keltner, a renowned psychology professor at the University of California, Berkeley, has unveiled profound insights into the transformative power of awe. In his bestselling book, ‘Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life,’ Keltner identifies eight wonders of life that can evoke awe. From the simplicity of moral beauty, nature, music, and visual design to deeper experiences like collective effervescence, spirituality, epiphanies, and reflections on mortality, awe has emerged as a central theme in our post-pandemic world.
The Three Pillars of the Age of Awe
- Neuroaesthetics
In the Age of Awe, there’s a burgeoning interest in the impact visual experiences have on mental health and our overall perception of the world. Art and design are no longer mere adornments; they wield the power to shape our emotional well-being. As travelers seek destinations that stimulate their senses, hotels, and spaces curated with neuroaesthetic principles are becoming sought after.
- Miracle Moments
In a world increasingly dominated by technology and standardization, there’s a rekindled appreciation for the unscalable, the extraordinary, and the irreplaceable. Miracle moments—those experiences that defy replication—have become a new cultural currency. Travelers now yearn for encounters that transcend the ordinary—a quest for the unique, the unexpected, and the awe-inspiring.
- Collectible Culture
Embracing the ethos of “buy less, but buy better,” a paradigm shift in consumer perspectives is underway. The Age of Awe brings forth a new approach to consumption, where objects are not mere products but cherished collectibles. This movement aligns with conscious and sustainable choices, fostering a culture of appreciating quality over quantity.
Transformative Effects of Awe
Scientific studies affirm that actively seeking daily experiences of awe can be transformative. This awareness empowers knowledgeable travelers to embrace wondrous moments and appreciate the beauty that stops us in our tracks. As we venture into 2024, let’s embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary—a journey into the Age of Awe.
Credit: Special thanks to Design Hotels and Soon Future Studies for contributing to the inspiration behind this exploration of The Age of Awe in Travel and Culture. Stay tuned for the upcoming trends in this six-week series!
