When the sun begins to set and the glow of the moon shines overhead, something magical happens. The energy around you feels more vibrant, and a world of possibilities reveals itself. What could this magic be, you may ask? The growing travel trend of noctourism (nocturnal tourism).
Noctourism is booming, leading to more tourists taking on nighttime adventures in new destinations. Some of the most memorable experiences happen at night, which is why we’re here to explore this mysterious trend, and hopefully give you some ideas to help plan your noctourism experience.
What is Noctourism?
Nocturnal tourism (otherwise known as noctourism) is a trend that has started to gain popularity. Travelers tend to focus more on partaking in activities at night, rather than during the day. This gives people the chance to see destinations in a whole new light, and opens up more opportunities for new experiences. Noctourism is suitable for travelers of all ages, and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
Why is Noctourism Trending?
Noctourism is on the rise, and it’s easy to understand why. Exploring a destination at night typically means less crowds, allowing you to explore the city without all of the additional hustle and bustle. Beyond that, we’ve found that many experiences simply feel more magical at night. The atmosphere transforms and has a whole different feel that daytime adventures simply can’t match.
What Are Some Popular Noctourism Experiences Around the World?
There’s no shortage of activities that you can try once the sun goes down. If you’re looking for ideas, some of the more popular experiences include exploring a night market, booking a city cruise, taking a night safari, and going on a starlight hike. Something you may not think of that we suggest doing is simply walking around the city on night one. This way, you can take everything in and get a feel for what activities may be available.
How Can I Celebrate Halloween Through Noctourism?
Halloween is the perfect holiday to explore the wonders of noctourism, as there are many amazing activities available. From guided ghost tours in historic cities such as New Orleans and Edinburgh, to eerie cemetery walks in the dark of night, there’s no shortage of things to try during the spooky season. Even visiting a museum or castle is a fun (and spooky) idea to try!
How Can I Stay Safe While Participating in Nighttime Activities?
You’ll want to make sure that you’re taking precautions and doing everything you can to stay safe while participating in nighttime activities, especially if you’re traveling solo. Some things that you can do include walking in well-lit and populated areas, staying with a group, leaving your valuables in the hotel safe, watching for pickpockets, and only using trusted transportation and tour companies. Lastly, always stay aware of your surroundings and go with your gut.
What International Destinations Are Popular For Noctourism?
Looking to explore an international destination while trying out some nighttime fun? Fortunately, there are many spots around the globe that offer noctourism activities. Some of the most popular places include Tokyo, Dubai, Barcelona, New Orleans, Bangkok, and Reykjavik. If you’re up to it, consider planning your vacation based around a few of these locations and visit multiple spots in one trip!
What Do I Need to Pack For Noctourism Activities?
You’ll want to make a packing list before heading out on your journey so that you have everything you need. For starters, if you plan on visiting an international destination, you will need a valid passport. If you don’t currently have one, you can apply for a passport today by visiting the Swift website. Some countries also require you to get a visa ahead of time. If this is the case for you, you can apply for a visa by visiting the Expedited Visa Services page on our website.
Some other things that you should consider bringing with you include comfortable footwear, layered clothing, bug repellent, travel documents, a camera, a reusable water bottle, snacks, a flashlight, and a portable charger. All in all, as long as you pack light and avoid wearing anything valuable, you should be ready to take on all of the noctourism adventures that lie ahead.
Why Noctourism Belongs on Your Bucket List
Noctourism is a very unique travel trend, and one that you should definitely add to your bucket list. It allows you to see the world in a whole new way, and try out things that you never thought possible. With the right preparation and a desire for adventure, you’ll come to find that exploring at night can be thrilling, exhilarating, and an incredible way to see new destinations.
