
Travel is set to make a huge impact in 2018, especially with the continued growth of travel. Tour operators, destination companies and the likes will see higher expectations from more sophisticated travelers.
Experiential Travel at the Heart of Travelers
Travelers are still searching for unique, authentic experiences. Destination exploration, adventure seekers desire to have their journeys at the “heart of their experience,” setting it apart from all else!
Online Booking is the New Norm
Mobile booking will continue to grow in 2018. In fact, 82% of bookings were being made via tour operator’s websites, with 49% being made via mobile devices.
Online Reviews Have the Biggest Impact
9 out of 10 travelers consider online reviews as an important factor in making decisions. 95% of travelers trust reviews via third-party sites such as TripAdvisor.
Blurring the Lines of Generational Differences
Travelers in their 30s to 50s are more interested in relaxing getaways, with travelers 65+ more interested in adventure and social opportunities. That means, we can expect to see adventure-seeking Baby Boomers, well-traveled Gen Xers and Millennials and curious, yet tech-savvy Gen Zs. Everyone is hunting for life-changing experiences through their travel ventures, and travel providers have to step up the game and create tours and activities that cater and appeal to their lifestyles rather than their age group.
Focus Shifts from Millennials to Gen Xers
Gen Xers are not considered the largest or coolest market but they’re the ones with the most money, spending the most time on travel. An international survey, conducted in Germany, China and the US states that 68% of Generation X are the top shoppers when it comes to large purchases such as travel and activities, spending an average of $627 per day on travel. 61% of Americans have children, with family travel as a priority.
The East is Rising
The Arabic and Indian markets are on the rise, and by 2020, researchers predict that the Arabic market will grow by 50%, with 50% of the being Millennials. The younger travelers prefer adventurous excursions.
Maturing Chinese Market Rapidly Growing
More Chinese are taking trips abroad, and we can start seeing more visits to the same countries/destinations. These travelers are a huge for the repeat market since they are familiar with local culture and language.
Sustainable Travel Connects Travelers to Local Communities
Overtourism is ruining certain destinations, so travelers will be looking to visit lesser-known destinations to satisfy their wanderlust.
What type of travel will you be trending or exploring in 2018?

Sapphire Kharyzma
When she’s not traveling the world, she enjoys planting the seeds of growth and prosperity for small businesses and entrepreneurs. She’s an accredited Travel Designer, who specializes in curating unique, Caribbean and Luxury ventures. She's a travel marketing expert, who loves to make her passions her paycheck while teaching women to do the same.
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