CHICAGO – iExplore , the #1 ranked adventure travel website and one of National Geographic’s ‘Best Adventure Companies on Earth,” has released their 2010 travel predictions. Touching on everything from budgeting to respecting the environment to exclusive itineraries, travel doesn’t seem to be slowing down next year.
2010 Travel in a Nutshell
It’s All About Value
Bargain hunting will still abound in 2010 as consumers have been trained by the deep discounting of the past two years to seek out the lowest prices—however, in 2010 consumers will be willing to spend if they feel like they are getting a unique experience at a good price. For example, consumers know they can always find a cheap trip to Vegas what they are more interested in is finding well priced trek through Nepal or a last minute deal to Iceland.
Ecotourism Here to Stay
Not a new trend, but will still continue to play a part in consumer’s travel decisions in 2010—consumers are looking for hotels and resorts that are eco-friendly as well as destinations like Panama, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Belize that offer the opportunity to explore the rainforests, jungles and get back to nature.
Baby Boomers Taking Experiential Trips
Over 75 million Baby Boomers in the United States continue to shape trends. This is an active and affluent group and instead of just passing down their money, they are choosing to create lasting memories and spend the inheritance by taking their kids and grandkids on cultural and experiential vacations—hiking the Machu Picchu Trail, African Safari’s and Alaskan Adventures.
Travel: Not a Game of Risk
Due to the uncertain economy and insecurity about jobs and investments, many more travelers are taking out trip insurance in advance of big trips. These policies may offer coverage if you lose your job or your circumstances change and you need to cancel at the last minute.
Unique and Customized Itineraries
The customization trend that is so popular and prevalent in other consumer categories – your own custom jeans, sneakers and laptop covers – has hit travel. Consumers want truly unique and off the beaten path itineraries that cater to their passions and hobbies—for example: trips to Southeast Asia that focus on photography, cooking classes in Italy or fishing in Argentina with a private guide.
iExplore caters to adventure and luxury travelers of all ages. Their travel experts have put together over 200 itineraries, world-wide, that address upcoming trends in the most effective ways. iExplore not only offers trips to nearly every destination imaginable, but they also provide in-depth, quality experiences while keeping their prices exponentially lower than competitors. To learn more about iExplore, visit the website at www.iexplore.com or contact Amanda Sundt at 1-312-492-9433 x 140.
