# Waffles-Centric Travel Experiences Choice Hotels International Conducts a Nationwide Survey By Kalin Ned | Published 2025-08-22 | Marketing Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/choice-hotels-international References: [prnewswire](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/choice-hotels-international-survey-reveals-waffles-are-the-heart-of-vacations-and-the-nations-biggest-breakfast-debate-302535893.html)  A recent nationwide survey commissioned by Choice Hotels International examines the significant role breakfast — and specifically waffles — plays within the travel experience. The data indicates that a substantial majority of travelers consider a leisurely morning meal to be a fundamental component of a successful vacation. This represents a dramatic shift from daily routines, as the number of people who regularly eat a sit-down breakfast more than triples when they are traveling. Choice Hotels International's findings also suggest that shared meals are a primary method of social connection for 78% of respondents, with over half specifically associating waffles with feelings of relaxation and comfort. The survey further reveals a national debate regarding ideal waffle characteristics, noting a near-even split between those who prioritize a crispy exterior and those who favor a fluffy interior. Topping preferences, however, show a strong inclination toward tradition, with an overwhelming majority selecting classic butter and syrup. Image Credit: Choice Hotels International ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.1/10 - Popularity: 65% | Activity: 71% | Freshness: 47% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Marketing](https://www.trendhunter.com/marketing) > [Branding](https://www.trendhunter.com/branding) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Breakfast-centric Tourism:** Travelers increasingly prioritize the breakfast experience, especially waffles, highlighting a shift toward breakfast-centric tourism that caters to comfort and leisure. - **Social Dining Experiences:** The emphasis on shared breakfast meals as a social activity underscores a growing demand for travel experiences that facilitate social connection through dining. - **Customizable Waffle Preferences:** The diverse preferences for waffle textures and toppings point to opportunities for customizable breakfast options that cater to varied consumer tastes. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Hospitality:** Hotels can capitalize on the breakfast trend by enhancing their morning meal offerings, particularly waffles, to attract travelers seeking unique and comforting dining experiences. - **Food Service:** Restaurants and cafes within travel destinations may benefit from crafting breakfast menus that emphasize local waffle variations and personalized toppings. - **Travel & Tourism:** Tourism operators could design packages or experiences that focus on breakfast as a key attraction, tapping into the growing traveler interest in gourmet morning meals. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sweet Breakfast-Inspired Hotel Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hampton-by-hilton.md) - [Waffle-Inspired Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chaco-x-waffle-house.md) - [Indulgent Diner Waffle Menus](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/seasonal-waffle-menu.md) - [Cookie-Stuffed Belgian Waffles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oreo-cookie-crumble-belgian-waffle.md) - [Liège-Style Diner Waffles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/berry-waffle-slam.md) - [Savory Fruit-Infused Waffle Meals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bojangles-chicken-and-boberry-waffles.md) - [Value-Focused Breakfast Menus](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/waffle-breakfast-sandwich.md) - [Pancake House Getaways](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/eggo-house-of-pancakes.md) - [All-Day Waffle Bites](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/waffle-bites.md)