The relationship between curiosity and travel

Curiosity and travel go hand in hand. It’s hardly a new revelation. Globetrotting has always been the pursuit of the adventurous, the intrepid and the curious.

But a new study on the topic from Curio Collection by Hilton reveals even more about curiosity as it relates to the modern traveler. Although only 20 percent of people are said to have the “wanderlust gene” (DRD4-7R), according to a survey commissioned by the Curio Collection, 91 percent of the population considers themselves to be curious.

In addition, 73 percent of people say that traveling is their go-to outlet to experess their curiosity.

The study also revealed that curiosity is a way of life and plays a key role in travelers’ vacation planning process.

As part of the study, respondents shared how curiosity motivates the way they explore a new destination:

• There’s always room for growth: Sixty percent of people believe they are more curious than the average person, yet more than half (53 percent) want to be more open to new experiences.
• Education motivation: More than 90 percent of people take trips to learn something new, and 79 percent consider learning something new while on vacation a priority.
• No time for naps: Fifty-five percent of travelers say that vacations are primarily a way to explore, not to relax.
• Unique exploration: Fifty-seven percent of travelers wish they could spend more time exploring the things they are most curious about, such as visiting ancient ruins, eating dinner at a well-regarded restaurant or experiencing a safari.
• Perfect travel partner: Sixty-four percent describe the perfect travel companion as someone who is curious. 65 percent consider a spouse or significant other as the best travel partner for new experiences, while 25 percent would prefer to travel alone.

On the heels of the study, Curio Collection by Hilton has unveiled new offerings for its Curious Gene program.

For instance, to help consumers customize their trips, the brand worked with researchers to develop five curiosity types – Pathfinder, Epicurean, Culturalist, Spiritualist and Challenger – and recommend Curio Collection hotels and destinations for each traveler preference.

In addition, through August 8, U.S. travelers who take the ‘Are You Curious?’ social media quiz to find out their curiosity type have the chance to win a seven-night stay at any Curio Collection property that sparks their wanderlust.

Fifteen additional winners will receive a two-night stay at any Curio Collection hotel worldwide.

And finally, to help travelers delve into their curiosity, the brand is partnering with celebrated travel expert and journalist, Ashlan Cousteau, who has shared her love of exploration in programs on E!, Discovery Channel, Travel Channel and more.

Cousteau, a curious pathfinder, will be providing travel tips to ensure even the most curious of travelers are gratified. In addition, Cousteau will also provide the sweepstake winner recommendations based on their interests and selected destination.

“My passion for discovery has led me to virtually every corner of the globe, with each trip allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of others, the world around me and most significantly, myself,” Cousteau said in a statement. “I look forward to working with Curio Collection by Hilton to help enable fellow travelers to follow their curiosity – wherever that may lead them – and to create meaningful experiences in ways they may never expect.”

To learn more about the Curious Gene program and to join the conversation across social media, use the hashtag #BeCurious and visit CitiesbyCurio.com/BeCurious.