The new vacation trend: Coolration in the north - why always travel south when the far north attracts?

The new vacation trend: Coolration in the north - why always travel south when the far north attracts?

The new travel trend: "Coolcation" conquered Northern Europe

a new approach for relaxing holidays

The term "CoolCation" comes from English and describes the phenomenon not to spend the vacation in hot southern regions, but rather to spend in the cooler far north. It is not just about more pleasant temperatures, but also about less crowded places, as Susanne Andersson from Visit Sweden emphasizes.

The trend has increased significantly in recent years, as statistics from the tourism industry show. Norway recorded an increase of 22% for overnight stays of foreign visitors in 2023, Sweden even recorded an increase of eleven percent. Finland, especially the Lapland region near the Arctic Circle, is also enjoying growing popularity among tourists.

relax away from the overcrowded beaches

The Scandinavian countries such as Norway, Sweden and Finland, in addition to their impressive nature, also offer pleasant water temperatures. In the south of Norway, they can reach up to 18 degrees Celsius, which offers bathing in the sea or in the numerous lakes a refreshing option.

In Germany, too, the "CoolCation" gains trend on the ground because the heat in southern Europe has reached questionable temperatures in recent years. Many people therefore consider changing their vacation habits and preferring cooler travel destinations.

effects of the trend on local communities

But the increasing influx of tourists into the Scandinavian countries also brings challenges. Small places are often not prepared for a sudden variety of visitors. This can lead to bottlenecks in the infrastructure, as Jan Ove Tryggestad from Hyllesyl emphasizes. Nevertheless, the communities try to adapt to the new circumstances.

outlook for the summer of 2024

Even in Germany, the "CoolCation" trend could find its way into the summer of 2024. Meteorologist Claudia carrier predicts a cool and damp summer that offers a welcome cooling for all those who cannot tolerate hot temperatures. In addition to the North and Baltic Sea areas, vacationers can also consider the altitude and regions such as Lower Saxony and Bremen for a refreshing stay.

- Nag