Updated 2020 Travel Trends

When I envisioned 2020, I was so excited for a bright new decade of travel - and all the trending destinations, luxury cruise itineraries, and fabulous hotels that came with it. While I absolutely believe that travel has a bright future ahead, there is no question there has been a shift in the year’s travel trends.

Normally this time in August, I have my out of office on, meticulously-chosen outfits (and shoes) packed, and calendars filled to the brim with meetings, appointments, receptions, and dinners. I am usually stationed in Las Vegas attending Virtuoso Travel Week, a week-long event attended by Virtuoso travel advisors, and travel suppliers from around the globe. Last year was the event’s most attended yet, with 6,515 attendees from 107 different countries. This year for the first time, the event was held virtually, and I am so glad I attended.

Virtuoso Travel Week is all about connection and education, and while we missed the in-person engagement, the educational and social opportunities were not lacking. In fact, we were amazed by the innovation shown by our travel partners during the virtual on-on-one appointments, with everything from tequila tasting to live piano music! As usual, time was spent learning about new travel opportunities, and getting the most up-to-date information on behalf of you, the traveler.

As you can expect, there was a lot of discussion about the current travelscape, and how we, as travel advisors, can still plan extraordinary experiences for clients now and in the future. After the incredible week, I have put together an (updated) list of the travel trends the industry is seeing and anticipating this year and next!

LOOKING & PLANNING AHEAD

We are definitely seeing a move toward planning ahead - even years in advance. In fact, the cruise industry has seen a record-breaking number of bookings for future sailings in 2021 and beyond. Now is the perfect time to take a moment to make list of your dream trips and destinations, and collaborate with Your World Experience on a plan for the future. From an African safari to an expedition cruise to Antarctica, many of these big bucket list trips take time to execute. Starting now, you can begin saving for the trip(s), and we can start working behind the scenes.

WORK OR LEARN FROM ANYWHERE

With many schools doing remote learning, why not take advantage of this time together and plan the most epic family vacation? There are currently many hotels offering incentives such as on-site educators, a free extra room to use as a classroom, designated learning cabanas and more - allowing families to enjoy a getaway while still finding the time for the required schoolwork. Or you could visit historic destinations such as Washington D.C. or Philadelphia, allowing your children to learn on the road! Similarly, with so many people working from home, why not apply the same idea to your work-life? Work remotely from a beautiful hotel in Mexico or the Caribbean, or hit the road and explore the U.S., bringing the WiFi with you.

THE ROAD TRIP

I love the way that road trips have made a comeback, with travelers exploring the vast wonders that this country has to offer. From national parks to glamping, coastal adventures, historic routes, luxury RVs, a weekend getaway or weeks-long getaway, there are endless opportunities for you to customize your adventure to your interests and comfort level.

WELLNESS TRAVEL

While there has been a strong interest in wellness travel for some time now, there has been a stronger pull toward the idea of self-care during these difficult times. There are so many extraordinary wellness resorts that have been able to reopen and welcome back travelers, such as Miraval and Canyon Ranch. Now is the perfect time to reconnect with yourself, enjoying a much-needed reset surrounded by beautiful surroundings.

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL

Like wellness travel, sustainable travel has been gaining momentum over the last few years, and the pandemic has not changed the connection felt between travelers and the world. In fact, passionate travelers are seeing both the heartbreaking impact a decrease in travel is having on the lives of locals who depend on tourism for work, and the positive impact that same decrease in travel has had on the health of our planet. Sustainable travel is a term which encompasses an awareness of environmental, social, and economic impacts on a destination when traveling. Travelers want to give back to the communities to which they visit, and limit the negative impact left behind when they travel. I love seeing the way more and more hotels, tour companies, and cruise lines making important sustainability changes, and it is becoming easier to access that information - allowing travelers to choose travel brands that align with their personal beliefs, and there are some travel companies which offer opportunities for those looking to actively give back to the communities of which they visit, through voluntourism.

If you would like to hear more about what I discovered during the week, I would love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about where you can travel, the safety and sanitation practices of hotels, or discuss your options for your next trip, I am here for you!