You've worked hard this year...probably lost count of the board meetings, staff meetings, conference calls, worked your way through thousands of emails everyday. Plus, you've been precision planning the whole family's hockey games, basketball tournaments, ski weekends and birthday parties. You and your family need a rest! You need a vacation! What you don't need is to spend your free time sifting through all the hundreds of options on the internet trying to figure out who is, or is not, reputable.

In this, the first of a short series, we have identified some of the top travel trends for 2009 and tips for how you and your family can take advantage of them.

Trend #1: Amazing Value

There are great deals out there, especially in the higher end products. But they aren't going to last forever. Capacity is being reduced by the travel companies and they are starting to withdraw the best deals as they no longer have excess space.

Trend #2: Women's Travel

Girlfriend getaways are going to be very popular this year. Time is always precious so make sure you spend it with your nearest and dearest. People are reconnecting with their mother or daughter or even their best friends while recharging their batteries.

Trend #3: Closer to Home

People are staying closer to home rather than venturing further afield. Destinations in Canada and the US are increasing in appeal as some people explore their own turf rather than travelling abroad.