Monday, March 03, 2008

Travel Trends


I recently came across a really interesting article covering the top travel and tourism technology trends for 2008.  It was a fascinating read, and I thought I’d share a bit of what I’ve learned here.

  • Increase in adoption of mobile travel applications – With everyone getting smarter phones like Blackberries, iPhones, etc, experts predict that more technologies will be developed enhancing the traveler experience through mobile phones and wireless devices.  For instance, we’ll all be turning to our phones for maps, directions, restaurant and hotel recommendations, weather conditions at our destination and much more.

  • Travel specific social networks will flourish – With the popularity of social media sites like Facebook; social networks that cover a specific niche like travel will emerge in greater numbers.  You’ll see networks for everything from travel agents, travel suppliers, and those with an affinity for specific locations.

  • Travel to China will be hot in 2008 and beyond – Of course, with the 2008 Olympics, travel to China will be at an all time high.  However, beyond the Olympics, travelers from around the world are more accepting of seeing China as a vacation destination.

  • Baby boomers will continue to influence travel – With many boomers opting to stay in the workforce, but scaling back, it is anticipated that they will take longer vacations.  This should increase travel across the board – but some areas like cruising, spas, and all-inclusive resorts should see healthy increases.

  • Environmentally friendly travel – With everyone concerned about the health of our planet, green travel will come out in real force.  Travelers will be concerned with renting hybrid cars, picking accommodations with earth friendly policies and looking for zero carbon emissions packages.

Overall, it is predicted that the travel sector will continue to be solid and there will likely be some great travel deals to be had!  Bon Voyage!

Posted by love2travel on 03/03 at 02:49 PM
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