As social media users oversaturate their feeds with images of iconic manmade landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Colosseum, some travelers seek something more challenging to experience from behind a screen: unique natural phenomena. This hot travel trend tops Expedia’s Unpack ’25 report, highlighting spiking interest in experiencing volcanic eruptions, mass migrations, and the Northern Lights firsthand.
For travelers who can’t brave the tundra or climb a volcano, an often easier-to-spot phenomenon awaits: the majestic annual migrations of whales. With whale watching season kicking off in some of Mexico’s most sought-after destinations, now is the time to quench the thirst for phenomena — with a margarita in hand for good measure.
Whale Watching in Mexico
While “phenomena tourism” is a new travel trend, whale-watching has been popular for decades. A 2009 reportestimated the industry generated around $2 billion globally, created over 13,000 jobs, and welcomed roughly 13 million spectators. Though no more recent global statistics are available, trends …