2020 Travel Trends - Take Two!
When we envisioned 2020, we were 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 we 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 in August, we have our out of office on, meticulously-chosen outfits (and shoes) packed, and calendars filled to the brim with meetings, classes, appointments, receptions, and dinners. We are 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, the event was held virtually for the first time, and Cadence was among the top 10 agencies with the highest number of advisors in attendance.
Virtuoso Travel Week is all about learning and connecting, 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 to meditation sessions! 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 our travel advisors can still plan extraordinary experiences for clients both now and in the future. After the incredible week, we have put together an updated list of the travel trends we are seeing and anticipating this year and next!
Looking & Planning Ahead
We are definitely seeing a move toward planning ahead - with travelers seeking trips in 2021 and even further. Now is the perfect time to take a moment to make list of your dream trips and destinations, and collaborate with your travel advisor on a plan for the future. From an African safari to an expedition cruise in Antarctica, a multi-country European adventure or a Caribbean yacht vacation, many of these big bucket list trips take time to execute. Starting now, you can begin saving for and building anticipation for the trip(s), and your advisor can start working behind the scenes to make the magic happen.
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? We are seeing 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 (and work for the adults!). Opt for a relaxing beachside escape, visit a historic destination such as Washington D.C. or Philadelphia, or bring the WiFi with you hit the road!
The Road Trip
Speaking of hitting the road, we love the way that road trips have made a comeback, with travelers exploring the vast wonders that this country has to offer. Whether a weekend getaway or a weeks-long getaway, there are endless opportunities to customize an adventure to the individual interests and comfort level of each traveler. Visit the U.S. National Parks, drive along the coast or historic routes, embark on a dreamy glamping adventure, experience a luxury RV, or incorporate some of the country’s most incredible luxury hotels, resorts, and ranches into your itinerary.
Wellness Travel
While there has been a strong interest in wellness travel for some time now, we are seeing 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 and surround yourself with natural beauty, as you enjoy a much-needed reset.
Seclusion & Wide Open Spaces
Because we know coronavirus transmission is lower outdoors, travelers are reaping nature’s benefits. In addition to seeing an increase in visits to the U.S. National Parks, we are seeing an interest in luxury lodges or resorts that are spread out across thousands of acres or tucked away in remote destinations. Places like Montana’s Ranch at Rock Creek with just 29 accommodations set on more than 6,000 acres, Amangiri’s new Camp Sarika with 10 canvas-topped situated in the otherworldly beauty of Utah’s desert, and the historic Blackberry Farm, with 62 accommodations and 4,200 acres in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains. With breathtaking landscapes, luxe accommodations, and access to endless adventure, it is not hard to understand why these havens beckon to so many.
Sustainable Travel
Like wellness travel, sustainable travel has been gaining momentum over the last few years. Sustainable travel is a term which encompasses an awareness of environmental, social, and economic impacts on a destination when traveling, and it was also a topic of discussion during this year’s Virtuoso Travel Week. In current times, mindful travelers are taking notice of both the heartbreaking impact a decrease in travel is having on the lives of locals who depend on tourism, and the positive impact that same decrease in travel has had on the health of our planet. We are seeing an increased desire of travelers to give back to the communities to which they visit, and limit the negative impact left behind. We are also seeing more and more hotels, tour companies, and cruise lines making important sustainability changes, or offering immersive programs or volunteer opportunities. It is also becoming easier to access information about what companies are doing - allowing travelers to choose travel brands that align with their personal beliefs.
Looking for help with your next travel adventure? Get in touch with your travel advisor, or fill out the form below and we can connect you!