Travel Insurance Trends for 2009

By Michael J. Ambrose

Travel insurance has dramatically grown in the last 10 years, especially after 9/11 when the market tripled from 11 percent of travelers buying insurance to more than 30 percent, according to the United States Travel Insurance Association. Although travel insurance has been available in the United States since the 1950s, it has undergone many transformations, and several trends are developing for 2009. Here are a few of them:

Silversea Details Silver Spirit's Inaugural Itineraries

Silversea Cruises’ new Silver Spirit will operate a 91-day “Grand Inaugural Voyage” departing on Jan. 21, 2010.

Future Vacations Sets 16 Percent Commission for January

Future Vacations is offering 16 percent commission on January bookings.

ITB Report Describes Impact of Economy on Travel

Holiday plans and travel trends are increasingly mirroring the social divisions between rich and poor, according to the ITB World Travel Trends Report.

Dollar Thrifty Reports Estimated Fourth Quarter Loss

Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc. announced that, based on preliminary estimated results, it ended the year with an unrestricted cash balance in excess of $210 million, approximately the same balance the company reported on Sept. 30, 2008.

ISPA Forecasts New Spa Trends for 2009

The International SPA Association is forecasting customization as one of the hottest trends of 2009. “In this economy, people are watching their money, plain and simple. Spa professionals are listening to the needs of customers and creating specialized treatments.

The Greenbrier Examines Strategic Options Including Sale

CSX Corporation said it is examining all strategic options for famed The Greenbrier resort in White Sulphur Springs, W.V., and has retained Goldman, Sachs & Co.