by Robin Amster
Last updated: 9:15 AM ET, Tue December 19, 2017
Cruise Planners has identified seven leading travel trends for 2018, ranging from luxury expeditions to river cruises that appeal to all generations, not just baby boomers.
"Change is an exciting part of the travel industry," said Vicky Garcia, COO and co-owner of the home-based travel agent franchise network. "Things that were once considered innovations are now expectations.
"The level of technology, luxury accommodations or custom travel experiences that travelers expect are high."
Cruise Planners' 2018 trends are:
Luxury Expeditions
Stately accommodations and champagne toasts are now part of the appeal of expeditions. Expedition cruises take travelers around the world on small ships with up-to-the-minute amenities, fine cuisine and authentic experiences in grand style.
Big, Little Extras
Travel agents are coming up with "wow factors" that make for meaningful experiences to surprise clients. These include booking a photographer to capture a proposal in front of the Eiffel Tower or arranging a scenic helicopter transfer to a five-star hotel.
Cruise lines and tour operators also are partnering with cultural hot spots to offer exclusive tours and experiences.
Skip-Gens
"Skip-Gen" travel includes when grandparents take their grandchildren on special adventures, thereby enabling the parents to take some time off. Vacations are prime time for forging bonds and making memories.
Experiences of a Lifetime
Travel agents are sending clients off to once-in-a-lifetime experiences like 2020's Tokyo Olympic Games and the Oberammergau Passion Play in Germany. Annual celebrations like Octoberfest or Holi, (India's color festival), offer cultural immersion.
Rooms for One
Cruise lines and tour operators are finally making it easier and more comfortable for solo travelers.
Some lines are waiving the single supplement fees on select sailings while other tour operators offer roommate matching programs where solo guests are assigned a roommate of the same sex.
IntuitiveTech
Technology is impacting the entire travel experience, beginning with trip planning. Virtual reality offers travelers a 360 look at a destination while Cruise Planner's Alexa Skills give travelers a hands-on connection to their travel agents.
River Cruising for All
River cruising is going beyond its Baby Boomer demographic. U by Uniworld is designed exclusively for 21- to 45-year olds. The whole family can take multi-generational cruises with kids programming offered by AmaWaterways' Adventures by Disney sailings and Tauck Bridges itineraries.
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