In the second of our series of emails looking at trends in the travel industry right now and how to take advantage of them we look at …

Trend #1: Educational Travel

We are seeing an increase in customers who are interested in combining their vacation with some kind of learning experience. They feel that if they are doing something which increases their knowledge as well as enjoying themselves they are more comfortable making the investment. Many cruises are offering special voyages with added lectures and learning sessions.

Tour companies are focusing their trips on specific itineraries that expand knowledge about one aspect of a city rather than giving people a superficial overview of the entire city or area.

Trend #2: Upgraded and Added Perks

Travellers can enjoy extra perks or upgrades right now. In order to get your business many travel companies are throwing in added value to entice you to book, these little extras can amount to a big value.

Trend #3: Vacation Properties

Have you thought about renting a house or apartment rather than staying in a hotel? From beach houses in Malibu to apartments in Paris, Barcelona or Rome this can be a great option. There are many benefits to having your own home away from home. It can be very economical, you can save lots on the room rate at a hotel and you will also have your own kitchen so can prepare your own meals if you choose rather than eating out each night. It is also a nice way to travel as a group, while each couple or person can have their own room there will be a communal living area where you can hang out and chat about your experiences of the day. Finally, it can be a great way to integrate into the culture of a place, going to the market and buying your evening meal gives you a chance to see how the locals really live.