Why I Decided to Stop Visiting Europe—and Why You Could Consider It, Too

Rising Costs of Travel

It’s impossible to ignore how much more expensive it’s become to travel to Europe these days. As of 2025, round-trip flights from the U.S.

to cities like London or Paris cost about 20% more than they did just two years ago. Hotels and accommodations haven’t been spared either, with average nightly rates in popular European destinations jumping by 15% since 2023, according to Eurostat data.

That means a week-long trip for two that might have set you back $3,000 in 2023 could easily top $4,000 now. The price hikes aren’t just for luxury travel, either—budget options like hostels and Airbnbs have also seen significant increases.

This makes it harder for many travelers to justify the expense, especially when other destinations offer more value for the money. Even everyday expenses like food, transportation, and sightseeing tickets have crept up, making the whole experience feel pricier than ever.

For many people, this kind of inflation is a wake-up call to look elsewhere.

Overcrowding and Tourist Fatigue

If you’ve ever tried to visit the Eiffel Tower in July or walk through Venice in August, you know the feeling: crowds everywhere, long lines, and barely a quiet moment to soak in the sights. Overtourism has become a huge issue in Europe’s most beloved cities.

Venice has even started charging day-trippers a fee in 2024 to manage the crush of tourists, while Barcelona has capped the number of visitors allowed at popular attractions. According to a 2024 European Travel Commission survey, 65% of travelers said they felt overwhelmed by crowds during their visits in the past year.

The charm of wandering quaint streets or enjoying a peaceful museum visit is quickly replaced by frustration and fatigue. Locals are showing signs of strain too, with increased reports of “tourist fatigue” and protests about the impacts of mass tourism.

It’s getting harder for travelers to have those magical, authentic moments that used to define a European adventure.

Environmental Concerns

For many, the environmental impact of frequent long-haul flights is becoming impossible to ignore. The World Travel & Tourism Council reported in 2023 that the aviation industry contributes about 2.5% of global CO2 emissions, and tourism accounts for even more when you add in hotels, transport, and activities.

As climate change becomes a bigger priority for people everywhere, the guilt of racking up a big carbon footprint just for a vacation is weighing heavy. Some travelers are now choosing to forgo international travel in favor of local or regional trips that can be done by train or car.

There's growing interest in “slow travel,” where the journey and sustainability matter as much as the destination itself. Choosing not to hop on that transatlantic flight is, for many, a small but meaningful way to lessen personal environmental impact.

Changing Travel Preferences

The way people want to travel has changed dramatically in the past few years. Instead of racing through dozens of cities and ticking off famous landmarks, more travelers are seeking relaxation, wellness, and genuine connections with nature.

A 2024 study from the Travel Research Association found that 70% of respondents now prefer destinations offering outdoor activities and wellness retreats over busy city breaks. This has led to a boom in camping, hiking, and even “glamping” vacations closer to home.

The trend continues to accelerate, with travelers placing higher value on personal well-being and peace over packed itineraries. People are searching for places where they can disconnect, recharge, and return home refreshed, rather than exhausted.

Safety and Political Stability

Europe has always been relatively stable, but recent years have brought more uncertainty. There have been ongoing protests in France, transportation strikes in Germany and Italy, and the continuing conflict in Eastern Europe, which has made some travelers uneasy about venturing too far afield.

In 2025, a report from the International Travel Safety Association found that 40% of travelers are now more cautious about visiting regions experiencing political unrest or instability. While these concerns don’t affect every country equally, the unpredictability can be stressful and even disruptive.

Stories of travelers stranded due to strikes or caught up in demonstrations have become more common, making alternative destinations seem more attractive.

The Rise of Alternative Destinations

Social media has opened the world to travelers in ways that were unimaginable just a decade ago. It’s now easy to discover hidden gems and lesser-known countries that offer unique experiences without the crowds or the high prices.

For example, countries in Southeast Asia like Vietnam and Indonesia, or South American destinations like Colombia and Peru, are seeing a surge in popularity. The 2024 Global Travel Insights report showed bookings to these regions up by 30% compared to prior years.

These places offer vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and distinctive food scenes at a fraction of the cost of Europe. Travelers are realizing that you don’t have to go to Paris for romance or Rome for history—there’s a whole world to explore beyond the old favorites.

Digital Nomadism and Remote Work

With the explosion of remote work, the definition of travel has changed. More people are taking their jobs on the road, looking for destinations with reliable internet, affordable living costs, and a welcoming community of fellow digital nomads.

According to a 2023 survey by the Remote Work Association, 55% of remote workers now prioritize destinations that cater to their work needs—think co-working spaces, cafes, and long-term rentals. Europe’s strict visa policies and higher living costs often make it less appealing for this new breed of traveler.

Places like Bali, Mexico City, and Lisbon (which has become crowded and expensive) are being replaced by less-discovered locales where digital nomads can live and work comfortably for months on end.

Health and Wellness Focus

Wellness travel is booming, and it’s changing the way people choose their destinations. The Global Wellness Institute’s 2024 report predicted wellness tourism will grow by 20% in the next five years.

People are seeking out places that offer not just relaxation, but holistic health experiences: yoga retreats, meditation centers, spa resorts, and access to natural surroundings. Many travelers feel drawn to destinations that support their health goals, whether it’s hiking in the Rockies, surfing in Costa Rica, or soaking in thermal springs in Iceland.

Europe has some great options, but the prices and crowds can make it harder to truly unwind. The focus on wellness means people are looking elsewhere for their next restorative getaway.

Cultural and Culinary Experiences at Home

The world has shrunk in terms of access to culture and cuisine. You don’t have to fly to Italy to learn how to make fresh pasta or visit Spain to enjoy flamenco.

Local cooking classes, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals are popping up everywhere, from big cities to small towns. According to a 2025 survey by the National Cultural Association, 60% of people are seeking out these experiences close to home instead of traveling abroad.

Food trucks, pop-up restaurants, and global markets now offer authentic tastes from around the world without the need for a passport. As cultural exchange becomes more accessible at home, the need to travel to Europe for these experiences has faded for many.

The Future of Travel

Travel isn’t going away, but the way we experience it is evolving rapidly. With sustainability now at the forefront, and travelers craving more meaningful, less conventional experiences, the draw of Europe isn’t as strong as it once was.

The trend toward exploring local gems, seeking out wellness and adventure, and finding value in under-the-radar destinations is set to continue. People are rethinking what they want out of travel—connection, relaxation, and discovery—while keeping rising costs, environmental impact, and personal well-being in mind.

Get more from Travelbucketlist!

What do you think about this topic? Share your thoughts in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! Want more stories like this? Follow us and never miss out!