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Traveling for the Lore: When the Story Shapes Your Journey
Find out how the desire for unconventional experiences—and the stories that come with them—is fueling travel and how you can get in on this trend.
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April 07, 2026
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According to our survey,1 in 2026, travelers are no longer content with simply visiting places; many want to become part of the story. Enter Lore Chasing, one of Amex Travel's 2026 Global Travel Trends. It's a growing travel mindset rooted in spontaneity, intentional unplugging, and gravitating toward experiences that feel more discovered than designed. While the destination still matters, it’s the narrative—the unexpected turn, the unconventional setting, the “you had to be there” moment—that truly defines the trip.
This trend reflects a strong desire for discovery, as highlighted in our annual report. Travelers are leaning into curiosity and seeking experiences that feel local and authentic, rather than checking off popular tourist attractions. Seventy-six percent of travelers surveyed say they’re likely to step outside their comfort zone, with Gen Z2 and Millennials leading the charge. And eighty-seven percent of global respondents intentionally leave room in their itineraries for unplanned discoveries, embracing the unexpected and the stories that come with it.
From extraordinary accommodations to off-the-beaten-path cultural gems, here are a few destinations and experiences to inspire your own lore-chasing adventures.
Out-of-the-box accommodations are one way to embrace lore chasing. When you stay somewhere unexpected, it’s more than just a place to sleep; it’s a defining part of the story. In Thailand, you can stay in an upcycled train carriage at the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, where 19 vintage railcars—some abandoned for over 50 years—have been transformed into modern rooms, suites, and villas, surrounded by tropical landscapes near Khao Yai National Park.
For a truly next-level stay, head to Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, home to the world’s first underwater residence, The Muraka. This showstopping two-level villa features a master bedroom submerged 16 feet below sea level under a 180-degree curved clear dome, where vibrant fish, rays, sharks, and other marine life swim by as you sleep. It’s an experience that feels straight out of a dream.
If you prefer your fairytale above ground, Ireland’s 800-year-old Ashford Castle delivers old-world grandeur on the shores of Lough Corrib Lake. With antique-filled rooms, original fireplaces, and sprawling estate views, spending the night here feels like stepping into a living piece of history—with archery, falconry, and horseback riding adding to its charm.
Related: Explore more ways to sleep like royalty at these castle and palace hotels
Travel Through History and Imagination
For many lore chasers, memorable journeys come from destinations that mix creativity with real-world legacy. Swain Destinations’ Middle Earth-inspired itineraries take travelers through New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes and famous film locations, creating an experience that feels straight out of a fantasy novel.
While in London, Raffles London at the OWO lets guests step directly into history by staying in the former Old War Office—a landmark that inspired parts of the James Bond franchise, with scenes from several movies shot on-site.
Related: Explore more historic hotels
Immerse Yourself in Legendary Landscapes
Nature-driven adventures are a big part of the lore-chasing mindset, offering moments that feel both serene and spectacular. At Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, you can stay in tree house-style accommodations perched above cliffs in the forest, with stunning views of both the mountains and the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop. The recently reopened stretch of Highway 1 invites even more spontaneity, with scenic detours and unplanned stops along California’s iconic coast.
Related: Get inspired with more coastal road trip itineraries
In northern New Mexico, The Inn of The Five Graces hosts guided glamping excursions in the desert timed to major celestial moments like the Perseids Meteor Shower in August 2026. The night sky is the star of the show and travelers leave with memories—and stories—they’ll be sharing long after they return home.
When booking these extraordinary stays, Platinum Card® Members can get up to $300 back in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year* on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection§ bookings through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.
§The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
Explore Amex Travel's 2026 Global Travel Trends
Miles on Milestones: Extending Your Travel Plans Past the Celebration
Sight-Doing: Get to Know a Place Through Local Experiences
Snackpacking: Savor the Journey, One Bite at a Time
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1Survey Methodology: This Morning Consult poll was conducted between December 30, 2025- January 14, 2026 among the following sample of global respondents: 2025 US Adults, 1001 Australia Adults, 1019 Canada Adults, 1005 UK Adults, 1021 Japan Adults, 1010 Mexico Adults and, 1021 India Adults who all have at least a $50k+ income equivalent and typically travel at least once a year. The interviews were conducted online. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 2-3 percentage points. Some geographies may be weighted with fewer variables depending on local census data availability.
2Millennials and Gen Z refers to individuals born between 1981-2012.
