Why wait for a wedding or anniversary to make that dream trip? Instead, more and more people are celebrating big moments in life with their best friends. And the trend is just speeding up.
According to TripAdvisor, mentions of milestone-driven travel — bestiemoons (yes, friendship honeymoons), retirement escapes, divorce trips and even drinking celebrations, have risen 39% this year. That's obvious. Travelers prioritize connections and adventures with those who have gone there through everything.
This trend has even been a hit in pop culture. The latest season of White Lotus follows three long-time veterinarian friends at a wellness retreat in Thailand. But this is more than just a TV drama. Empoyage's travel advisor says more people are using travel to strengthen friendships and marking big moments in life in real life.
Travel advisor Katharina Stewart has sorted out the friendship escape long before he has a trendy name. One of the most memorable? Veterinarian for two lifelong friends who need a reset, especially after caring for her sick husband.
“They didn't want a packed schedule or a hurrying itinerary. They wanted a beautiful, relaxed place where they could properly enjoy each other's company,” Stewart says. “So we travelled through what really illuminated them.”
One was an artist, so Florence was an obvious starting point. Immerse yourself in the beauty of gallery hopping, museums and Renaissance. The other was a passionate foodie so I booked a stay at Tuscany Vineyard Villa in Tuscany.
“They didn't have a schedule, they just had time to go wine, ride a country bike and let it be there and breathe,” Stewart says. “That's what they needed. It's a chance to feel safe in a stunning place, not a checklist.”
Stewart set up a WhatsApp chat so you can check in all your trip. “We laughed in that chat and we cried out, which seemed like I had to go on a journey with them,” she says.
For Bernadette Terblanche, another embossing travel advisor, Bestiemoons doesn't have to be all deep chat and soul exploration. “I booked a trip for two women celebrating my 60th birthday together,” she says. “They left their husbands and children behind and headed to Mauritius for an inclusive escape. There was no itinerary.
Where should the vet go?
If you plan it correctly, the destination can be bestiemoon, but there are also places that were naturally made for a friendship holiday. Safari in South Africa is always a strong choice, says Terblanche. One of her top picks? Cateca Lodge near Kruger National Park.
Safaris, she says, offers the perfect balance between adventure and downtime. The morning starts with a guided game drive. After all, no one can unite a group that sees lions in the wild for the first time. afternoon? They are for a poolside lounge, spa treatments, or a glass of wine over the fire.
“There's something about safari that really brings people together,” says Terblanche. “You start and finish the day together. You have no obligation to smoke the experience.”
Terblanche says Bali is always at the top for friends who want a mix of scenery and a bit of action. “I love Bali's Instagram tours. I take you to waterfalls, jungle swings and cultural landmarks that create incredible moments of sharing.”
For complete relaxation without logistical stress, Mauritius can count on you. “The reason I book so many veterinarians is because many hotels offer comprehensive packages,” says Emmoyages Travel Advisor Denette Forie. “No one wants to spend on their trips and calculate the costs or come up with who is paying for what. You just want to enjoy the moment!”
Anneri Papenfus of Empoyage Advisor agrees. “If my client doesn't travel often, I usually suggest Mauritius or Zanzibar,” she says. “There are many comprehensive options.” Her choice for Zanzibar? Riu Jambo – Beachfront Resort with a 24-hour bar – Perfect for groups who want to party, relax and enjoy every moment without leaving the property.
In Mauritius, we recommend Mauritia Beach Comer Resort & Spa. “The location is ideal. It's right for Grand Bears, so you can walk from the resort to explore the nightlife and markets,” she says. “There's a lot of prices, it's comprehensive and even its own club so you don't have to have a great evening.”
For travelers who love luxury and a bit of adventure, Fore offers a turkey and green combo trip. Start at Cappadocia on a hot air ball on a surreal rock formation and head to Istanbul for shopping and culture. after that? Greece sails between resorts and private yacht islands for at least five days.
“It's the best of both worlds,” she says. “Something exciting – avoid talking for years, then you kick back, have a cocktail by the pool, enjoy the time together in style.”
How to plan bestiemoon without stress
Planning a group trip that is dreamlike for Bestiemoons to hear requires some basic rules to prevent unnecessary tension.
Priority? Know your budget before booking anything. There's nothing to ruin your trip faster than realizing that on the second day you have very different ideas about what to use.
Booking early can also turn expensive trips into manageable trips. “Many resorts offer low deposits if booked in advance and can pay off your trip over time,” says Evonvage Travel Advisor Papenfus. “People assume high-end vacations cost money, but if you increase your payments, it becomes much more viable.”
It is equally important to choose the right accommodation. “A villa, suites with lounges or boutique hotels with shared spaces make travel more connected,” says Free. “The best memories come in the moments in between, such as morning coffee in your shared space or late-night chat after a long day.”
When it comes to accommodation, Papenfus helps the group find the best room setup to balance budget and comfort. “If it's a group of six, I usually go to two triple rooms,” she says. She urges the group to book seats for the flight in advance to ensure that everyone is together during the trip.
And what is her last bestiemoon advice? Papenfus suggests booking a professional group photo shoot to capture your trip. “It's a very enjoyable way to maintain memories,” she says. “And if you really want to lean towards the bestiemoon experience, you want to adjust the outfit: matching swimsuits, a themed dinner night. It's just that everything feels special.”
