Travel Trends
Annoying travel ‘bugbear’ prompted Aussie couple to pack their entire lives into a van | Exclusive
It was a simple observation that led this young Aussie couple to completely change their way of life.
Priya Sharma and her partner Sid Madiwale were travelling through New Zealand when they noticed something they had never seen in Sydney.
“Everywhere people were van-lifing,” she tells 9Travel, “There was just a ridiculous amount of vans on the road”.
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So the next time they returned to New Zealand, they did as the locals do and rented a van, and in the process they discovered a comfort they had never felt before while travelling.
Priya’s number one bugbear while travelling was dragging suitcases around hotel rooms and back to cars, inevitably forgetting something.
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But with the van, “I never had to pack or unpack. All of my stuff was in the van”, she says.
“We could stop and just be in the most beautiful location ever, have a cup of tea, cook breakfast. It was truly the most simplest things about it. I felt like I was more in the moment, because there was so much I didn’t have to worry about.”
Even when the long-term couple returned to the little Queensland mining town where they both worked as explosives engineers, the idea persisted.
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Their rosters meant they would have seven days of work followed by seven days off, and previously they would rent “very average” motel rooms in larger cities to have a getaway. But their newfound discovery had them instead investing $8000 on a starter van.
“That way we would drive along the coast. We wouldn’t have to worry about booking a hotel. We just throw everything in our van,” she explains.
The process showed her just “how much I would not need a home.”
Their humble abode stores a lot more than you would expect, with the pair packing their summer and winter clothes, hiking gear, formal and Indian attire, kitchenware, and even their suitcases so that if they find themselves whisked away on an overseas adventure, they can do so on a whim.
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“I thought I would need more, and I don’t. I think that’s the biggest surprise when you live in a van,” says Priya.
As they settled into the new way of life, Priya began documenting the “renovations” they would do to the van to make it more like home on TikTok, where they gained a substantial following.
Eventually the couple were able to quit their day jobs and become “digital nomads”, roaming around the east coast of Australia while documenting their adventures.
It wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows though, especially when it was raining.
Their first van was “really miserable to live in” when a sudden shower would hit. The couple weren’t able to enjoy the creature comforts of a rainy day – like a nice long hot shower or a hot meal – since their cooking station was outside and they had a tiny shower.
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When they bought a new van, they made sure to utilise what they learned from the first time.
Their new van is fitted with an induction cooktop for safety, all of your regular kitchen gadgets like an air fryer, adequate counter space, a TV, and even internet.
Most of all, it was “important to us that Sid and I can sit and eat dinner together, so we have two little seats facing each other.”
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Despite being in close quarters with Sid – who is not only her life partner of 13 years but also her business partner, with the pair selling her Dad’s Special Spice Mix around the world – the couple don’t tend to get on each other’s nerves.
“Historically, whenever partners work together, there’s a lot of clash… (but) I think because we had so much time where we were forced not to see each other… it’s our normal,” says Priya.
“I couldn’t imagine it any other way. I couldn’t imagine only seeing my partner for a few hours of the day. And that is a huge privilege, that we do get to spend all day together.”
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At the forefront of digital innovation, Mindtrip debuts a new AI-powered mobile app, offering real-time, hyper-personalized travel guidance that adapts to users on the go. United Airlines also upgraded its app with a connecting flight-centric feature, simplifying complicated itineraries for smoother travel. Meanwhile, the luxury sector is expanding with a renewed focus on wellbeing. Marriott International’s Luxury Group launched its ‘Luxury Wellbeing Series 2025’ across top Asian destinations, while Loreto’s Mailena, debuting in late summer 2026, introduces a restorative adults-only retreat to Mexico’s Baja Peninsula.
Nostalgia is trending, too as ‘Pan Am Journeys’ by Private Air, under license from the iconic Pan American World Airways, offers retro-inspired, private air travel experiences. Similarly, Carl Friedrik’s ‘Carry-on X Core Collection’ nods to mid-century aviation aesthetics with sleek, functional design. On the water, Viking makes waves by entering the Indian river cruise market with the introduction of the ‘Viking Brahmaputra,’ bringing high-end cruising to the subcontinent. Nox, looking to the future of European rail travel, announces plans for 2027 overnight trains with private, comfort-first cabins—reshaping the night train experience.
On the lifestyle side, Four Seasons adds flair with its ‘Resort Pajamas Collection,’ while Groupe GM and Hei Poa debut a soothing, protective sun care hotel amenity line. Additionally, ‘The Cayman Club’ by Cayman Jack provides travelers with a sense of calm amid travel disruptions, and ‘Camp Unwritten’ by World of Hyatt and Reese’s Book Club invites guests to glamp with books, nature, and luxury.
Altogether, August’s travel trends reflect a traveler mindset increasingly shaped by individuality, relaxation, and meaningful escape—one that seeks not just destinations, but immersive, personal journeys.
In a major push to elevate Nepal’s hospitality landscape, Sarovar Hotels—part of the Louvre Hotels Group—has launched Royal Tulip Chitwan, the brand’s premium entry into the country. Situated at the edge of Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the new resort seamlessly blends luxury, nature, and Nepali culture. The opening marks the debut of the Royal Tulip brand in Nepal and signals growing confidence in the country’s tourism potential.
Developed by KTM Hospitality (a KTM Group Holdings company), the resort spans over 4 acres and offers 65 upscale rooms and villas. Accommodation options include private Pool Villas, serene Water Villas, and unique Machan-style stays that elevate the guest experience. With a focus on nature-inspired design and top-tier comfort, the resort is positioned as an ideal destination for luxury travellers, wildlife enthusiasts, and honeymooners alike.
Royal Tulip Chitwan goes beyond just accommodation, offering world-class facilities like a luxury spa, fitness centre, swimming pool, and multiple gourmet dining options. Guests can enjoy meals at Majhighar, Forest Flame, the revolving deck Machan, or unwind at the stylish Tanavi Sports Bar. The emphasis is on immersive experiences rooted in local culture and cuisine, combined with global service standards.
Ajay K. Bakaya, Chairman of Sarovar Hotels, emphasised the strategic significance of this launch, noting Nepal’s increasing appeal among Indian and international tourists. He stated that Royal Tulip Chitwan is designed to offer a luxurious yet culturally authentic retreat. Rameshwar Shah of KTM Hospitality echoed this sentiment, highlighting the resort’s role in promoting Chitwan as a luxury eco-tourism hotspot.
With this debut, Louvre Hotels Group is expanding its South Asian footprint by targeting high-potential, experience-driven markets. Royal Tulip Chitwan is expected to become a landmark for leisure travel in Nepal, attracting guests seeking a tranquil yet luxurious escape surrounded by nature and culture.
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Las Vegas, celebrated as the entertainment capital of the world, is grappling with a decline in tourism. Locals have expressed concern, with many noting that the city’s iconic casinos are now quiet compared to the bustling atmosphere. The shift comes amidst a variety of factors, including changing political climates and evolving consumer behavior and broader travel trends that have caused a dramatic drop in tourism.
Tourism Decline: What’s Behind the Fall in Visitors
The sharp decline in tourism in Las Vegas has been felt deeply in the local economy, which relies heavily on tourists flocking to its casinos, resorts and entertainment venues. The Strip, once packed with eager tourists, is now seeing fewer visitors, especially in some of the larger, more well-known casinos. This downturn has led to concerns among business owners and workers who rely on the constant influx of tourists for their livelihoods. In particular, many Las Vegas locals have pointed out that the once-crowded casinos are now far emptier than before, with fewer high rollers and international tourists gambling at the tables.
America: How Tourism Is Affected
Las Vegas, being a major destination for international travelers, has felt the effects of these policies. Many international visitors, who would otherwise frequent Las Vegas for its world-class casinos, shows, and attractions, have chosen alternative destinations in Europe or Asia, where travel policies are more relaxed. Moreover, the rhetoric surrounding immigration and the portrayal of the U.S. as less welcoming to foreigners has led to a significant decrease in the number of tourists coming from overseas.
Changing Consumer Habits
In addition to this, changing consumer habits are also contributing to the decline in Las Vegas tourism. Furthermore, the rising popularity of staycations has impacted Las Vegas’ tourism industry. More Americans are choosing to take vacations within their own country and often prefer to visit nearby destinations rather than making the long journey to Las Vegas. Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Phoenix have become increasingly popular alternatives, providing travelers with the same level of entertainment and relaxation without the associated travel costs or the crowded experience Las Vegas now offers.This shift in consumer behavior, combined with economic uncertainties and the high cost of travel, has caused many potential visitors to look elsewhere for their leisure time.
Adapting to the New Reality: Efforts to Revitalize Las Vegas Tourism
Las Vegas is working tirelessly to adapt to these changing dynamics and breathe new life into its tourism industry. Local businesses, tourism boards and city officials are all focusing on diversifying the offerings that have traditionally centered around casinos and nightlife.
Las Vegas is embracing new tourist attractions, such as immersive art exhibits, family-friendly entertainment, and wellness retreats. Additionally, the city is hosting an increasing number of non-gambling events, such as conferences, sports events, and concerts, to attract a new wave of visitors who may not be interested in casinos but are still drawn to Las Vegas’ entertainment options.
Moreover, Las Vegas is actively marketing itself as a destination for millennials and Gen Z, who are more interested in experiences like live concerts, celebrity chef dining, and unique cultural events rather than traditional gambling. By promoting a more diverse set of attractions and rebranding itself as a multifaceted vacation destination, Las Vegas is hoping to regain its appeal among younger travelers.
The Future of Las Vegas Tourism: What Lies Ahead?
While the challenges are significant, there is hope for the future of Las Vegas tourism. With its constant reinvention and ability to adapt to new trends, Las Vegas has the potential to recover from the current slump. However, it will require a concerted effort to regain the confidence of international travelers.
As it adjusts to the effects of Trump’s policies, shifting consumer behaviors and the global tourism landscape, the city will continue to evolve. Las Vegas has long been known for its resilience, and if the city’s history is any guide, it will likely find new ways to draw in tourists and bring back the vibrancy that has made it the world’s entertainment capital for decades.
Changing Landscape for Las Vegas Tourism
Las Vegas has long been synonymous with glamour, entertainment and excitement. However the recent decline in tourism has left locals and business owners worried about the future of the city’s economy. While the decline in visitation is concerning, there are signs of hope as the city adapts to a new era. Through innovation, reinvention and a focus on attracting diverse visitors, Las Vegas will likely remain a global tourism destination but it may look a little different than it once did.
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