In a world where the sweltering summer heat can be unbearable, a new travel trend has emerged to offer relief: “coolcations”. These are vacations tailored to destinations renowned for their cooler climates, providing a welcome escape from the scorching temperatures. According to data from Google Trends, there has been a staggering 300% increase in searches for “cooler holidays” compared to the previous year, as reported by Selling Travel.
Coolcations whisk travellers away to a variety of captivating destinations. From the Arctic wonderlands of Greenland and Iceland, where visitors can marvel at breathtaking landscapes, encounter unique wildlife, and partake in adventures like glacier hiking and whale watching, to the majestic mountainous regions such as the Swiss Alps and Canadian Rockies. Coastal retreats in Alaska and Patagonia also beckon those seeking a reprieve from the heat, as highlighted by Luxury Travel Magazine.
Iceland stands out as a prime coolcation spot, boasting glaciers, lava fields, and the renowned Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. Meanwhile, cruises around Greenland, offering glimpses of colossal icebergs, are experiencing a surge in demand. In North America, Denali National Park in Alaska and Banff National Park in Calgary rank high on travellers lists.

Statistics from Iglu Cruise underscore the growing popularity of coolcations, with significant increases in demand observed across various destinations in 2023 compared to the previous year. These include destinations like:
•235% – Arctic
•137.4% – Canada
•33.3% – British Isles
•32.4% – Antarctica
•23.2% – Fjords and Norway
•22% – Alaska
However, the burgeoning coolcations trend also brings forth challenges, particularly concerning its impact on both travel infrastructure and the environment. Small Arctic towns like Utqiagvik in Alaska are grappling with the strain of increased tourism, prompting concerns about sustainability and overtourism. Cruise operators are ramping up their efforts to meet the demand for polar expeditions, necessitating bookings and additional staff recruitment.
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Moreover, the Arctic ecosystem is under pressure from the influx of visitors, exacerbating issues related to climate change and environmental degradation. Increased emissions from aviation and cruise ships contribute to global warming, while issues such as waste disposal and souvenir sales can adversely affect indigenous communities and fragile ecosystems.
To address these challenges, travellers are urged to embrace responsible tourism practices. This includes respecting local customs, minimizing waste generation, and supporting eco-friendly businesses that prioritize environmental conservation and community engagement.
Planning coolcation trips
For those considering starting on their coolcation adventure, careful planning is essential. Here are some major tips that can be useful:
1. Opting for carbon-neutral transportation, such as trains, and selecting eco-friendly accommodations and tours can help reduce one’s environmental footprint.
2. Traveling during shoulder seasons such as May, June, September, and October to avoid peak crowds is another strategy, allowing visitors to enjoy a more serene experience while exploring cooler destinations.
3. Ultimately, coolcations offer a refreshing alternative for travellers seeking to beat the heat while immersing themselves in the beauty of cooler climates.
4. By adopting sustainable practices and respecting the environments they visit, travellers can ensure that these destinations remain pristine for generations to come.
With these considerations in mind, embarking on a coolcation promises not just a respite from the heat, but also an opportunity to connect with nature and contribute to the preservation of our planet’s precious ecosystems.
Disclaimer: The above information is a result of research and Axpert Media is not responsible for errors in the same.