LONDON - The 2009 World Travel Market Global Trends report,
launched by Euromonitor International, has revealed the seven trends of
the future.
They will provide insight into how the industry can entice the next generation of travellers, despite the economic uncertainty.
Caroline Bremner, head of travel and tourism research at
Euromonitor International said, “The impact of the global recession is
clear to see in trends such as ‘funemployment’.
“But beyond the recession, a picture is emerging of longer term
trends like the Obama-inspired Roots Tourism in Africa, Latin America
rebranding as a luxury destination and female-only accommodation in the
Middle East.”
North America: Funemployment
As unemployment rates reach historic highs, some are embracing
their situation by becoming ‘funemployed’ – the unemployed using their
free time to pursue other interests.
Most have severance packages to cushion the blow and more than half
of those unemployed in North America are under 35, mainly single,
without children or a mortgage.
The funemployed serve as a target for extended trips, world cruises
and long haul airline tickets, and a means to boost off-season
occupancy rates.
UK: Pop-up hotels
Pop-up hotels create an opportunity for travel accommodation
providers to offer affordable, quality yet unique hotel experiences.
These temporary hotels are pre-built units, incorporated into a
steel frame which can be easily demolished, where construction time is
reduced by almost 50% compared to traditional methods.
Temporary hotels are expected to change the face of UK travel by
attracting a larger consumer base with their affordable pricing and
sustainable living.
Europe: Concierge travel
Concierge travel services in Europe are currently targeted at
wealthy travellers, offering holidays customised to personal tastes.
Mass tourists are, however, demanding more personalised services as
they become accustomed to finding more travel options online, opening a
vast new market.
European travel retailers are on the verge of rolling out
customised concierge services to the mainstream. The offer of concierge
services to the mid market will allow travel industry players to
differentiate their products by adding value.
Middle East: Female only accommodation
The Middle East boasts a growing number of young women who have
developed an interest in travelling, though in some Muslim countries it
is frowned upon by Arab society.
Female-only lodging therefore makes travel possible without a
mandatory male escort. This will also appeal to Western women, given
the widespread negative perceptions of women travelling alone in the
Middle East.
Africa: Obama effect - roots tourism
President Obama’s recent visit to Ghana put Africa under the
international tourism spotlight, opening up the potential for an
African tourism revival amongst African Americans.
Africa is benefiting from roots tourism, still largely unknown to
many core markets with the potential to boost economic prosperity in
local African communities.
Asia: Golf – Golf tourism
Rapid economic growth in China has created a new elite class
jumpstarting demand for golf. China ranks fifth in the world with
around 310 golf courses and hundreds more in the pipeline.
Latin America: The new luxury destination
Latin America is investing in luxury infrastructure and in terms of
High Net Worth Individuals, the region registered the smallest decline
in wealth in 2008, presenting enormous potential for luxury travel.
With its vast natural parks and biodiversity, the region is
expected to benefit from an increasing interest in “eco-luxe” where
“natural” overlaps with “luxury”.
Brazil’s hosting of the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games
will be a further boost to the region’s tourism infrastructure.
For a full copy of the report visit:
http://www.euromonitor.com/pdf/Global_Trends_Report_2009.pdf
