5 Travel Trends Shaping the Industry in 2023
International travel continues to rebound with air travel now at 90.5% of pre-Covid levels as of April 2023, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). However, with the pervasively high cost of jet fuel reflected in flight prices, travellers continue to be discerning about their spending.
As a leading strategic advisor to some of the top brands in hospitality and tourism across Singapore and Southeast Asia, Accela Communications knows a thing or two about the trends shaping the industry.
Here are five of the top trends in the travel industry that will persist through the second half of 2023:
Experiential Travel: In today's fast-paced world, travellers are prioritising mental well-being and personal growth over shopping during their trips. The Mastercard Economics Institute Travel Industry Trends 2023 survey found a 65% increase in global spending on experiences compared to a 12% increase in spending on consumer goods compared to 2019. Travellers are opting for off-the-grid accommodations, immersive cultural activities, gastronomic and artisan tours offering unique opportunities for self-discovery and relaxation.
Long-Distance Travel: While staycations and regional exploration remain strong trends, Asia’s travellers are returning to the skies for long-haul trips, especially to Europe, the United States, Hong Kong and Australia, according to the Mastercard Economic Institute survey and a recent Travel Daily article.
Eco-Tourism: Sustainable travel practices have gained significant traction, with an increasing emphasis on environmental responsibility. Travellers are seeking opportunities to engage in conservation projects and support sustainable accommodations. As an agency committed to sustainable tourism, we are proud to have partnered with Chempadak and Nikoy Island, which has experienced remarkable growth among eco-tourists over the years.
The Working Nomad: As remote work and freelance opportunities continue to rise, countries around the world are competing to attract digital nomads. These nomadic professionals not only contribute to the local economy by staying in hotels, apartments, and short-stay properties, but they also support local businesses. To cater to this growing demographic, hotels are introducing amenities such as long-stay discounts, convenient workspaces, and networking events.
Digitised Services: Hotel guests can now access services using contactless technology such as facial recognition, voice control and other biometric methods. Hyatt, Hilton and citizenM already deliver a modern guest experience with contactless check-in and app-centred service menus, while others like Aloft and Crowne Plaza feature room service robots.
The Rise of Set-Jet Travel: According to American Express’ 2023 Global Travel Trends Report, more travellers are choosing their destinations and curating itineraries based on iconic scenes from popular television series, films and even social media influencer feeds. Think visits to France inspired by Emily in Paris and a tour of Sicily inspired by White Lotus.
In an industry as dynamic as travel, effective communication is essential for brands to stand out. Accela Communications offers a comprehensive suite of services, including public relations, event marketing, and social media strategies, to help travel brands effectively reach and engage their target audiences. Our team of experts understands the ever-evolving trends and can provide tailored solutions to elevate your brand's visibility and impact.
Contact us to discuss how we can help your brand thrive in this exciting era of travel: [email protected]
