An exclusive rendezvous with Laurynas Kundrotas, CEO of Tinggly, unveils how the global experiential gifting platform is transforming the way we view travel and adventure. In this wide-ranging conversation, Kundrotas explains how Tinggly is curating journeys that go beyond sightseeing, offering travellers immersive opportunities to connect with cultures, landscapes, and themselves. With experiences available in over 100 countries, Tinggly champions the idea of gifting memories instead of material things, creating a future where experiences become the most valuable form of celebration.
Kundrotas highlights the fastest-growing trends shaping today’s adventure market. He notes that “micro-adventures” — short, accessible experiences like guided day hikes, spa daycations, and even zip-lining near urban centres — are winning over younger travellers pressed for time but eager for meaningful escapes. Hybrid wellness adventures, where rejuvenating treatments blend with fine dining and luxury settings, are also on the rise, reflecting the growing need for balance between relaxation and exploration.
For Millennials and Gen Z, adventure has shifted away from extremes like scaling mountains or skydiving. Instead, it is being redefined as cultural immersion, learning new skills, and pursuing experiences that foster self-discovery. Cooking with local chefs, sailing lessons, or exploring hidden regions with local guides embody the meaningful, story-worthy moments this generation seeks.
Social media plays a powerful role, with TikTok and Instagram shaping demand more than official travel guides. Viral content has become a catalyst, transforming unique experiences into global trends overnight. Despite rising travel costs, younger travellers are budgeting consciously, prioritising experiences over possessions, and embracing adventure as an investment in well-being.
Sustainability is at the core of this movement. Gen Z and Millennials actively seek eco-friendly, responsible adventures, favouring providers like Tinggly that offset emissions and support communities. Looking ahead, Kundrotas envisions regenerative travel, tech-enhanced adventures, and even space-inspired journeys as the next frontier.
This exclusive dialogue with Laurynas Kundrotas offers a window into the evolving mindset of a generation that values purpose, authenticity, and connection above all — signalling nothing less than a renaissance in the meaning of adventure travel.
Market Trends: From your perspective, what specific types of adventure travel experiences are seeing the fastest growth right now — and why?
Right now, we’re seeing interest in “micro-adventures” which are short, accessible outdoor experiences such as guided day hikes, zip-lining near urban centers, or overnight spa retreats close to home. These activities appeal especially to younger travelers who want meaningful escapes without needing to take extended time off from work or planning elaborate trips.
We’re also seeing strong growth in hybrid experiences centered on relaxation — like spa and massage daycations that end with gourmet dining at luxury resorts. These combine physical rejuvenation with the mental reset today’s wellness seekers are craving.
Generational Drivers: How are Gen Z and Millennials redefining what “adventure travel” means compared to older generations?
Gen Z and Millennials are reshaping the definition of adventure travel – away from traditional ideas like extreme sports or conquering physical feats. For them, it’s more about personal growth, immersion in local culture, and trying something new that feels meaningful or even transformative.
That might mean taking a cooking class with a local chef, learning to sail, or exploring a lesser-known region with an independent local guide. They value flexibility, uniqueness, and authenticity – and they want to come home with more than photos; they want stories to tell.
Technology Influence: In what ways is social media or digital content influencing younger travelers’ appetite for adventure experiences?
Social media has had a massive impact on how younger travelers make decisions. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram don’t just showcase destinations – they actively shape demand. A single viral video can inspire thousands of people to book similar experiences.
In many cases, people rely more on short-form video reviews from influencers and peers than they do on official travel guides or tourism-related sites. It creates a sense of immediacy and inspiration that drives bookings.
Economic Factors: Despite rising travel costs globally, adventure travel seems to be booming. How are younger travelers budgeting for these experiences?
It’s simple. Younger generations are consciously choosing to spend their money on experiences over material possessions. Many are prioritizing travel and adventure over things like luxury goods or even dining out. There’s also a mindset shift at play: adventure experiences are seen as investments in self-discovery and mental well-being, which makes them a justifiable expense, even in tougher economic times.
Sustainability: Are you seeing a stronger preference among Gen Z and Millennials for eco-friendly or sustainable adventure experiences?
Absolutely. Sustainability is a top concern for younger travelers. They’re not just looking for adventures, they’re looking for responsible adventures. Experiences that are carbon-neutral, support local communities, or include eco-conscious practices are in high demand.
For example, at Tinggly, we offer a selection of eco tours around the world, but what truly makes all our experiences eco-friendly is the fact that we offset 200% of the CO₂ emissions from every experience and plant a tree for each gift sold.
New Destinations: Which emerging cities or regions are topping younger travelers’ adventure bucket lists that might surprise us?
Younger travelers are increasingly drawn to emerging destinations that blend culture, nature, and affordability. Tokyo offers a mix of modern energy and tradition, while Thailand is a go-to for food lovers and island adventures. South Africa surprises with shark diving and vibrant local culture.
In North America, micro-destinations like Vermont’s Green Mountains, Joshua Tree, and the Pacific Northwest are trending for off-grid hikes, wellness escapes, and nature-driven getaways — all perfect for a refreshing break from the crowds.
Post-Pandemic Shifts: How did the pandemic reshape younger travelers’ priorities when it comes to adventure travel?
The pandemic deeply changed how younger people think about their time and how they travel. There’s now a greater desire for depth rather than breadth. People are spending more time in fewer places and seeking richer, more personal and life-affirming experiences.
We’re also seeing stronger interest in small-group or self-guided adventures that avoid crowds and allow for more spontaneity and reflection. The pandemic reminded us all how valuable freedom and exploration really are, and that mindset is shaping the future of adventure travel.
Future Outlook: Looking ahead five years, what new trends or types of adventures do you predict will capture the interest of younger generations?
Looking ahead, I believe we’ll see a rise in “regenerative travel” which are experiences where travelers actively contribute to the environment or local communities, such as reef restoration, reforestation projects, or sustainable farming workshops.
We’ll also likely see more tech-enhanced adventures such as using augmented reality to enrich hiking routes or combining virtual and physical elements in new ways. And as space tourism continues to evolve, we may even see the earliest adopters among Gen Z exploring high-altitude or zero-gravity simulations as their next frontier.
Ultimately, the future of adventure travel will be driven by purpose, personalization, and a strong desire to connect with nature, with others, and with oneself.
