by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 8:05 AM ET, Thu October 16, 2025
After years of “revenge travel” and overbooked itineraries, a growing number of travellers are embracing a slower, more intentional approach to vacationing — one rooted in what Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) calls the “Joy of Missing Out” (JOMO).
According to a new survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of NCL, more than 70% of travellers are moving away from fast-paced sightseeing toward restorative escapes that prioritize well-being, flexibility, and choice.
The YouGov survey was conducted online between September 12–23, 2025, with 12,185 respondents across nine countries, including Canada, the U.S., and the U.K. Of these, 9,658 qualified as travellers — those who have travelled in the past five years or plan to within the next two years.
The findings demonstrate a shift from the “Fear of Missing Out” (FOMO) that fueled many post-pandemic trips.
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While 71% of respondents said they once focused on checking off as many attractions as possible, 35% admitted they returned home feeling exhausted. Now, 77% say they’re planning future vacations to be slower and more relaxing — choosing “presence over pressure.”
“FOMO fuels a culture of ‘doing it all’ and often leaves travelers needing a vacation from their vacation,” the report noted. “JOMO celebrates the art of doing less, more meaningfully.”
Two-thirds (67%) view JOMO-style travel as a form of self-care, citing reasons such as the chance to unplug (45%), escape the pressure to “see and do everything” (40%), take time for themselves (38%), and embrace spontaneity (34%).
More than half (54%) said cruises are an ideal setting for JOMO-style vacations, placing them alongside spa retreats and beach escapes.
The Caribbean ranked as the top region for this type of travel, named by 30% of respondents for its easy pace, natural beauty, and opportunities to unwind.
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“We’re seeing a meaningful shift in how people want to travel — moving away from rigid travel agendas and toward more intentional and restorative experiences,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
“The Joy of Missing Out travel is about choosing what matters most, and at NCL, we make that easy.”
NCL currently sails 18 ships in the Caribbean through 2027, including the soon-to-debut Norwegian Luna and Norwegian Aqua. The itineraries operate year-round from 11 homeports, including Miami, Port Canaveral, New York City, Punta Cana, and San Juan.
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The line’s private islands — Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize — are featured on most Caribbean voyages and cater to travelers seeking rest and simplicity. Great Stirrup Cay is undergoing enhancements, including the new adults-only Vibe Shore Club, designed to offer a quieter, more exclusive atmosphere.
As Sommer put it, NCL aims to help travellers “unplug and recharge” — redefining what it means to truly escape, even if that means missing out.
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