4 Min Read
The latest trends in society and culture from The Harris Poll
Good morning from New York, and wishing a (hopeful) glidepath to a relaxing holiday break.
One Interesting Number: 42.
What did I say about resting up? Only four in ten employees (42%) in the U.S., U.K., and Canada fully unplug from work during holiday time off.
More Americans Plan to Travel Than Shop in 2026
With 2026 in sight, many Americans may be swapping shopping carts for suitcases, according to our new Marriott Bonvoy Harris Poll survey.
- What we found: (91%) of Americans plan to travel in 2026, and nearly half (49%) say they want to travel more than they did in 2025. Two-thirds (67%) are prioritizing experiences, such as travel, over material purchases in 2026.
- The stat you can’t ignore: That same amount (67%) say retail shopping today feels too generic, with all retailers looking and feeling the same.
- What to consider: The findings reflect a broader cultural trend toward moments that carry lasting meaning. Millennials (ages 29-44) show a strong commitment to their time away, with (70%) saying they would rather give up dining out for six months than give up a vacation.
What this means: Americans are seeking deeper connections, immersive experiences, and a renewed sense of well-being, with more than half (55%) planning to spend more time with loved ones. Carving out time to rest and recharge may also be a priority, as (57%) say it is the most meaningful benefit they experience through travel.
When a Generation Plans an Exit
In The New Yorker our Libby Rodney covers the surprising number of young Americans contemplating living abroad to regain a sense of personal control.
- What we found: Thoughts of leaving the country have crept into the minds of Americans. Nearly half (48%) have considered leaving the country, with that share higher among younger people.
- The stat you can’t ignore: 6 in 10 Gen Z and Millennials say “thinking about moving to another country gives me a sense of personal agency—that despite it all, I can do something.”
- What to consider: Wishing and doing are two different things. In reality, only about 1.4% of Americans live abroad, according to the FVAP. But here’s what everyone misses. This isn’t about giving up on America. It’s about Americans reclaiming the one thing they feel they’ve lost – agency over their own futures. Watch for that in the midterms.
What this means: “Americans are looking to emigrate for the same reasons that immigrants once came to America for safety, economic security, better opportunities, and an overall sense that their families would have a better future,” detailed journalist Atossa Araxia Abrahamian. The American Dream hasn’t died; it’s just packed up and moved to Amsterdam, Lisbon, and Mexico City, writes Libby.
How Many Jobs Are Too Many?
Polyworkers, portfolio careers, and hustle culture are all buzzy terms in the job market. Yet, is working multiple gigs the latest status symbol or just a way to survive?
- What we found: More Americans believe candidates with portfolio careers are more desirable in the future workforce (55% v. traditional careers: 45%). That number rises to (62%) of polyworkers (aka individuals who intentionally hold multiple jobs or professional roles simultaneously).
- The stat you can’t ignore: Over two in five (43%) of those working multiple jobs could be paid well enough by one, but would still want to work a variety of jobs.
- What to consider: Two-thirds (65%) of polyworkers aspire to be a part of hustle culture, yet half (52%) feel they aren’t actually getting ahead in their careers.
What this means: It’s all about how you see it. Three-quarters (75%) say individual goals drive hustle culture, but most polyworking results from the need to make more money. Regardless of the motivation (diversified income or career development, or both), FORTUNE says Polywork will grow in 2026.
