From Ancient Myths to Modern Journeys, Exploring Grand Odysseys

Travel has always been about discovery, but the greater journey may begin with a story thousands of years old. According to Skyscanner’s the 2027 trends report, Grand Odysseys reflects a growing appetite for history-led adventures, where travellers follow the footsteps of ancient heroes, explore legendary landscapes, and experience the places behind the stories that have captured their imagination.

The renewed global fascination with Homer’s The Odyssey, amplified by Christopher Nolan’s film, illustrates the power of storytelling to turn cultural heritage into travel inspiration. Skyscanner reports that 34% of travellers have been inspired by the film to plan a trip. This echoes the rise of set-jetting, where films and television series influence destination choices. But Grand Odysseys takes the idea a step further. Travellers are seeking to immerse themselves in the history, mythology, and meaning behind a place.

The generational appeal is particularly compelling. Skyscanner reports that 28% of Millennials have taken a trip inspired by both a historic event and a story or myth from classical civilisation. Meanwhile, 43% of Millennials and 42% of Gen Z say mythological legends, from Troy to ancient Greek tales, inspire their travel ambitions.

The possibilities extend well beyond famous archaeological sites. AllTrails’ selection of top historic hikes for 2027 includes Greece’s Cape Drastis Loop and Rizes Cave; Horcones Viewpoint and Espejo Lagoon in Argentina; Xi’an City Wall in China; and Monte Santa Caterina in Italy. Together, these destinations illustrate how landscapes, historic infrastructure, and legendary associations can become the foundations of immersive travel experiences.

A different way to think about the guest experience

For hospitality brands, Grand Odysseys may open up a broader role beyond accommodation, allowing them to become part of the journey itself.

1. Before the journey: Turn inspiration into intention

Films, mythology, and historical narratives can spark curiosity, but travellers need help translating that inspiration into a real itinerary. Hotels can capture this early-stage demand through story-led content, film-inspired travel guides, mythological itineraries, and partnerships with travel creators. By connecting compelling narratives to specific destinations and experiences, hotels can influence destination choice, build brand awareness, and convert cultural curiosity into bookings.

2. During the journey: Bring the destination's stories to life

Once guests arrive, hotels can turn local heritage into bookable, immersive experiences. These might include guided walks through historic landscapes, archaeological excursions, mythology-themed itineraries, storytelling dinners, or collaborations with local historians and cultural practitioners. Resorts can also combine accommodation, excursions, dining, and wellness into thoughtfully curated packages. The aim is to make the hotel an integral part of the journey, encouraging longer stays, increasing ancillary spending, and creating experiences that distinguish the property from its competitors.

3. After the journey: Turn memories into lasting connections

The experience need not end at checkout. Hotels can extend the emotional value of a Grand Odyssey through personalized digital travel journals, curated souvenirs, stories about the places guests visited, and recommendations for the next chapter of their journey. Encouraging guests to share their experiences, contribute travel stories, or explore related destinations can generate authentic word-of-mouth and user-generated content. Over time, these connections can nurture repeat visits, loyalty, and a community of travellers who return to discover another story.

Ultimately, the opportunity is to build a continuous relationship around the journey itself. Before travel, hotels inspire; during travel, they bring stories to life; after travel, they sustain the connection. In a trend driven by history, mythology, and the desire for meaningful discovery, the brands that connect all three stages can turn a fleeting source of inspiration into lasting guest relationships and long-term commercial value.