The Rise of the Anti-Consumption Traveller
For decades, travel has been synonymous with indulgence—cocktails by the beach, wine tastings in the countryside, and pub crawls in bustling cities. But a new wave of travellers is rewriting the script.
During our latest travels, we’ve been spotting young travellers across the globe enjoying good food at the best restaurants and lounging by the world’s most beautiful pools with everything but a drink. The anti-alcohol movement is gaining momentum, with more people opting for sober travel experiences that focus on mindfulness, adventure, and authentic cultural connections.
Why Are More Travellers Saying No to Alcohol?
The shift towards alcohol-free travel isn’t just about avoiding hangovers; it’s about a deeper desire for clarity, wellness, and meaningful experiences. Many modern travellers, particularly younger generations, are rethinking their relationship with alcohol. Some want to fully immerse themselves in their surroundings without the haze of alcohol, while others prioritise health, fitness, or mental well-being.
The rise of wellness tourism, digital detox retreats, and mindful travel experiences aligns perfectly with this trend. Instead of boozy nights at the bar, today’s travellers are seeking sunrise yoga sessions, cold water plunges, and locally inspired mocktails that celebrate regional flavors without the alcohol.
Destinations Embracing the Sober Travel Movement
With the increasing demand for sober-friendly experiences, more destinations are catering to travellers who want to explore without alcohol being the main attraction. Here are a few top picks:
Luang Prabang, Laos
A UNESCO-listed town steeped in history and tranquility, Luang Prabang offers an escape into traditional culture and serene landscapes. Visitors can take part in the ancient almsgiving ceremony at dawn, explore the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, and cruise along the Mekong River. The town’s peaceful atmosphere is enhanced by its café culture, where herbal teas and fresh fruit juices are the beverages of choice. For a luxury stay, La Résidence Phou Vao and Amantaka provide idyllic retreats with breathtaking views, serene spa experiences, and an elegant embrace of Laos' rich cultural heritage.
Tasmania, Australia
For nature lovers seeking a remote escape, Tasmania delivers rugged beauty and unspoiled wilderness. Travellers can hike through Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, take in the dramatic coastal cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula, or indulge in farm-to-table dining experiences featuring fresh local produce. Tasmania’s vibrant wellness scene includes forest bathing experiences, eco-lodges, and mineral-rich thermal springs, making it a perfect alcohol-free destination. Book the Freycinet Lodge for a unique eco-luxury experience.
Muscat, Oman
For those looking for adventure and cultural immersion, Oman offers an intoxicating experience—without the alcohol. Visitors can trek through the dramatic canyons of Jebel Shams, camp under the stars in the Wahiba Sands desert, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Wadi Shab. The capital, Muscat, is a blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, where visitors can savour rich Arabic coffee and fresh dates while exploring the historic souks and palaces. Stay at The Mandarin Oriental, a beachfront gem that overlooks the Arabian Sea while positioned steps from the city’s cultural gems.
Bali, Indonesia
Known for its focus on well-being, Bali is home to countless yoga retreats, detox centres, and plant-based cafés. Fresh coconut water, turmeric lattes, and vibrant fruit smoothies replace cocktails in a setting designed for inner peace and rejuvenation. Travellers can visit Ubud’s rice terraces, relax at luxurious wellness resorts, or take part in spiritual ceremonies led by Balinese healers. For a truly exclusive retreat, Amanwana, a remote luxury tented camp on Moyo Island, offers a blend of eco-luxury and untouched natural beauty.
Istanbul, Turkey
A city where history and modernity collide, Istanbul offers endless cultural discoveries. Instead of bar hopping, travellers can explore grand mosques, cruise the Bosphorus, and indulge in strong Turkish coffee and refreshing pomegranate juice. A stay at the Çırağan Palace Kempinski, a former Ottoman palace turned luxury hotel, provides a regal experience with breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, a world-class spa, and an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Strolling through the Grand Bazaar, visiting the Hagia Sophia, or enjoying a traditional Turkish hammam are just a few ways to immerse yourself in the city's rich history.
How the Travel Industry is Responding
As the sober travel movement grows, the tourism industry is taking note. More hotels and resorts are offering alcohol-free minibars, wellness-focused packages, and mocktail menus. Tour operators are curating experiences that prioritise connection over consumption, from nature retreats to adventure-based itineraries. Even cruise lines and luxury resorts are recognizing the demand for sophisticated, alcohol-free social spaces.
A Shift in Travel Culture
Sober travel isn’t about restriction—it’s about intention. It’s about experiencing destinations with full awareness, forming deeper connections, and feeling refreshed rather than depleted after a trip. Whether it’s a temporary detox or a permanent lifestyle choice, the anti-alcohol traveller is shaping a new era of exploration—one that’s richer, more mindful, and more fulfilling than ever before.
Plan your trip today. Contact The Betesh Group.