![]() Veteran travel advisors provide tips and strategies on how to tap into this thriving market. TRAVEL AGENT CLAUDETTE COVEY Multi-generational family group playing in the surf. (Photo via iStock / Getty Images Plus / Wavebreakmedia) The multigenerational family market is – without a doubt – thriving, and in large part thanks to the pandemic. “Multigenerational family travel was popular before the pandemic, and now it is booming,” said JoAnne Weeks, vacation division manager at Acendas Travel. “Families who are stretched all over the country haven’t seen one another much in the last two years, and this is evident with the flooding of new travel requests.” “I am seeing demand starting to increase as families want and need to get away after the last two years,” said Chris Caulfield, owner of a CruiseOne franchise. “As protocols are eliminated, it will make travel easier, and the demand for multigenerational family groups will skyrocket.” “The crazy thing we are experiencing is an availability issue,” said VIP Vacations President Jennifer Doncsecz. “Many resorts and hotels are full or approaching being sold out. If there is availability, we are finding that rates are higher than most expect.” Here are some tips to help you boost your multigenerational family group business. Targeting Decision Makers “Always make sure you are working with the person in charge,” Weeks said. “You may think you are, but be sure, and don’t be afraid to ask. This will be a time saver and will hopefully help avoid a lot of confusion.” In some cases, it’s one of the adult children who begins the research process, “but you need to find out who is the driving force, and who is paying for everything,” Weeks said. “It’s usually Grandma or Grandpa. They are the ones you need to be qualifying,” she added. “Then find out how much they are funding, and what else is left ‘a la carte’ for the kids to pay for.” Collecting Fees “While these groups are quite lucrative, they are also a lot of work,” Weeks said. “I usually require a flat custom service fee based on how many travelers, and how in-depth their itinerary is. Collect it towards the end of your initial consultation once you have established your knowledge and expertise, and definitely before any information is given out freely.” Doncsecz begins the qualifying process by ascertaining how many rooms the group believes it needs and what price point they are aiming for. “Many tour operators offer promotions for rooms that are linked together so we share the type of perks certain hotels/resorts will provide if they have ‘x’ amount of rooms booked and explain how this is a great way to link people together and earn fun perks,” she said. “I ask my clients what types of experiences they want on their cruise,” Caulfield said. “Destination is also key in selecting options.” He recommended that advisors keep up to date on promotions like Kids Sail Free, which are advantageous to multigenerational groups. “In addition, whether cruise or land, make sure you are familiar with the options that cater to families.” Setting Expectations “I am on a mission to get rid of the perception that ‘deals’ are out there. Deals were out there in January of 2021, but consumers should not be on the hunt for them,” Doncsecz said. “As travel advisors, we should be setting the expectation of pricing upfront before a quote is even prepared. “Demand plus supply chain issues plus higher gas prices equals higher costs to travel! “After setting the tone for costs and going over their budget requests, I ask if everyone traveling has a passport, reminding adults that childrens’ passports are only valid for five years. “I ask about the makeup of each family and the room configurations – families of five many times need to split into two rooms, which can be pricey,” she said. “I also ask for the contact information for each of the families that have expressed interest so that the lead person doesn’t have to be the go-between. “Finally, I include travel insurance with each quote so they can travel with peace of mind!” Knowing Your Stuff “Familiarize yourself with the more mainstream family-friendly destinations, resorts and or cruise lines,” Weeks said. “You need to know more than the consumer does going into it.” She added, “Think outside the box. Don’t forget there are river cruise lines out there promoting to families now. There are villas in Costa Rica, African safaris and luxury small-group family tours offered all over the globe.” What's Booking Multigenerational family groups are setting their sights on cruise vacations, all-inclusive resorts and such destinations as Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Hawaii. “Families want a trip where there is something for everyone to do individually and as a group,” said Chris Caulfield of CruiseOne. “Ships today have so many activities and features that are ideal for multigenerational vacations.” JoAnne Weeks of Acendas Travel is also finding that multigenerational groups are interested in cruise vacations, with Alaska sailings and cruise tours gaining in popularity. “There are families that still want to stay closer to home but are finding out once they figure in hotel cost, resort fees, rental cars, gas pricing, parking fees, food and activities, it’s a better value to head to Mexico,” she said, adding that all-inclusive resorts and Hawaii are also proving popular. “Disney is a big seller and Florida in general is hot,” said VIP Vacations’ Doncsecz. “Cancun and Punta Cana are also destinations that we are booking for families.”
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New data forecasts that the luxury tourism market will reach a record value of $82 billion by 2030.
According to a report from Global Market Insights Inc., the strong demand for exotic safari experiences will be a key force in the luxury travel industry, particularly in the Middle East and Africa. Travel’s adventure and sport segment is expected to surpass around $12 billion by 2030, due to the emphasis on developing effective strategies to support sports tourism growth. The 2022 Global Travel Trends Report of American Express Travel study found that 58 percent of respondents opt for solo travel to visit their dream destination, which should strengthen the demand for luxury travel. Travelers over 60 will depict a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 15 percent through 2030. The growing desire to spend leisure time traveling and the availability of enough resources boost this generation’s acceptance of luxury travel. Travel and the availability of enough resources boost this generation’s acceptance of luxury travel. While the luxury market in the Asia Pacific accounted for a share of over 28 percent in 2021, the Latin American luxury tourism industry is likely to be one of the fastest growing, reaching nearly $200 million by 2030. The study was conducted with major luxury travel market participants, including Audley Travel, Travelopia, Backroads, G Adventures, Jet2 Holidays, TUI Group, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., Silversea Cruises, and Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC. Earlier this year, a survey from Globaldata.com found found that luxury tourism has recovered quicker than budget tourism in the United States due in part to an increase in “high-net-worth individuals.” has recovered quicker than budget tourism in the United States due in part to an increase in “high-net-worth individuals.” ![]() by Daniel McCarthy / July 26, 2022 Princess Cruises on Tuesday announced that it was making a number of adjustments to some scheduled Alaska itineraries because of the recent decision to close a berth at Skagway, Alaska by the White Pass Rail Road. The berth, which is the busiest cruise ship dock in Skagway, is reportedly at risk of a disastrous rockslide. A report by a geotechnical and environmental consulting firm, which took the research at the request of the municipality of Skagway, confirmed that risk. The report, concludes that there is a “significant risk associated with complete failure” for the North Slide of the railroad dock in Skagway, which could produce catastrophic results for ships docked at the berth in Skagway. In light of the risk, White Pass Rail Road, the owner of one of the docks, made the decision to close the forward berth at the Railroad Dock, the main location where Princes Cruises’ Royal Class ships dock. In response, Princess is making a number of changes. “The health and safety of our guests and crew are always our top priority and we appreciate and support this decision,” Princess said in a statement on Tuesday. Here are the changes from Princess:
![]() More than 16,000 acres of pristine white sand beach and ocean bay area are now protected thanks to a deal made with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. This area is home to endangered and endemic species as well as rare, culturally significant Native Hawaiian artifacts. Trust for Public land, a national non-profit land preservation group, purchased Pōhue Bay for more than $9.4 million funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund and an important donation by the Wyss Foundation. It then transferred its ownership and surrounding land — from Māmalahoa Highway to the shoreline — to the National Park Service so it will be preserved. “Aloha ʻāina begins with our commitment to preserving our islands’ precious natural and cultural systems,” said Lea Hong, associate vice president and Hawaiian Islands state director for Trust for Public Land. “We are grateful the National Park Service will steward the area with the community, ensuring the history, culture, and natural beauty of this place are protected for future generations.” More than 16,000 acres of pristine white sand beach and ocean bay area are now protected thanks to a deal made with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. This area is home to endangered and endemic species as well as rare, culturally significant Native Hawaiian artifacts. Trust for Public land, a national non-profit land preservation group, purchased Pōhue Bay for more than $9.4 million funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund and an important donation by the Wyss Foundation. It then transferred its ownership and surrounding land — from Māmalahoa Highway to the shoreline — to the National Park Service so it will be preserved. “Aloha ʻāina begins with our commitment to preserving our islands’ precious natural and cultural systems,” said Lea Hong, associate vice president and Hawaiian Islands state director for Trust for Public Land. “We are grateful the National Park Service will steward the area with the community, ensuring the history, culture, and natural beauty of this place are protected for future generations.” Pohue Bay Project plan PHOTO CREDIT: TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND Pōhue BayPōhue Bay is a rare, idyllic oasis in a rugged landscape. It’s the only white sand beach for many tens of miles in the rugged district of Kaʻū on Hawaii Island. Generations of local residents visit to surf, fish, dive, and reconnect with nature and culture. It’s home to endangered hawksbill sea turtles, green sea turtles, endangered Hawaiian monk seals, and other species found only in Hawaii. The area houses anchialine ponds — landlocked pools with a mix of fresh and salt water — where rare Hawaiian red shrimp called ʻōpaeʻula live. The area is also culturally significant because it holds remains of ancient Hawaiian villages, petroglyphs dating from ancient times to the 19th century, a burial site, and the largest known abrader tool quarry in the state, according to the Trust for Public Land. Abraders are ancient tools used for sanding, smoothing, and grinding. A well-preserved portion of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, or Ala Loa, an ancient coastal trail system, hugs the coastline. All of these historic and invaluable cultural resources are now protected for future generations. “Pōhue is an incredibly precious and culturally significant landscape that needs to be protected,” said Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Rhonda Loh. We are actively seeking community feedback to get a better understanding of the natural and cultural resources in the area. The park is working to develop an interim operating plan for Pōhue that explores opportunities for public use compatible with resource protection. We thank the community for your patience and for the manaʻo shared so far.” About Trust For Public LandSince 1979, Trust for Public Land has conserved more than 59,000 acres in Hawaii. The immediate priority is conserving lands that enhance trails and parks, protect food, forests, and water, and create opportunities for Hawaiian land stewardship. It works with local residents in safeguarding resources that are special and significant to their communities. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Hawaii Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Mauna Loa and Kilauea are two of the world’s largest and most active volcanoes. Both are located at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Most of the coastline where the bay is located is made of ancient lava flows, black rock, and sea cliffs that dart out into the ocean. Credit: ALLISON GODLOVe – Travel News Allison loves learning about new people and places and always jumps at the chance to take a trip. Whether it's visiting a town in her area or traveling across the country, she's up to explore! Pohue Bay Project plan PHOTO CREDIT: TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND Pōhue BayPōhue Bay is a rare, idyllic oasis in a rugged landscape. It’s the only white sand beach for many tens of miles in the rugged district of Kaʻū on Hawaii Island. Generations of local residents visit to surf, fish, dive, and reconnect with nature and culture. It’s home to endangered hawksbill sea turtles, green sea turtles, endangered Hawaiian monk seals, and other species found only in Hawaii. The area houses anchialine ponds — landlocked pools with a mix of fresh and salt water — where rare Hawaiian red shrimp called ʻōpaeʻula live. The area is also culturally significant because it holds remains of ancient Hawaiian villages, petroglyphs dating from ancient times to the 19th century, a burial site, and the largest known abrader tool quarry in the state, according to the Trust for Public Land. Abraders are ancient tools used for sanding, smoothing, and grinding. A well-preserved portion of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, or Ala Loa, an ancient coastal trail system, hugs the coastline. All of these historic and invaluable cultural resources are now protected for future generations. “Pōhue is an incredibly precious and culturally significant landscape that needs to be protected,” said Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Rhonda Loh. We are actively seeking community feedback to get a better understanding of the natural and cultural resources in the area. The park is working to develop an interim operating plan for Pōhue that explores opportunities for public use compatible with resource protection. We thank the community for your patience and for the manaʻo shared so far.” About Trust For Public LandSince 1979, Trust for Public Land has conserved more than 59,000 acres in Hawaii. The immediate priority is conserving lands that enhance trails and parks, protect food, forests, and water, and create opportunities for Hawaiian land stewardship. It works with local residents in safeguarding resources that are special and significant to their communities. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Hawaii Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Mauna Loa and Kilauea are two of the world’s largest and most active volcanoes. Both are located at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Most of the coastline where the bay is located is made of ancient lava flows, black rock, and sea cliffs that dart out into the ocean. Credit: ALLISON GODLOVe – Travel News Allison loves learning about new people and places and always jumps at the chance to take a trip. Whether it's visiting a town in her area or traveling across the country, she's up to explore! ![]() More than 16,000 acres of pristine white sand beach and ocean bay area are now protected thanks to a deal made with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. This area is home to endangered and endemic species as well as rare, culturally significant Native Hawaiian artifacts. Trust for Public land, a national non-profit land preservation group, purchased Pōhue Bay for more than $9.4 million funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund and an important donation by the Wyss Foundation. It then transferred its ownership and surrounding land — from Māmalahoa Highway to the shoreline — to the National Park Service so it will be preserved. “Aloha ʻāina begins with our commitment to preserving our islands’ precious natural and cultural systems,” said Lea Hong, associate vice president and Hawaiian Islands state director for Trust for Public Land. “We are grateful the National Park Service will steward the area with the community, ensuring the history, culture and , and natural beauty of this place are protected for future generations.” Pohue Bay Project plan PHOTO CREDIT: TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND Pōhue BayPōhue Bay is a rare, idyllic oasis in a rugged landscape. It’s the only white sand beach for many tens of miles in the rugged district of Kaʻū on Hawaii Island. Generations of local residents visit to surf, fish, dive, and reconnect with nature and culture. It’s home to endangered hawksbill sea turtles, green sea turtles, endangered Hawaiian monk seals, and other species found only in Hawaii. The area houses anchialine ponds — landlocked pools with a mix of fresh and salt water — where rare Hawaiian red shrimp called ʻōpaeʻula live. The area is also culturally significant because it holds remains of ancient Hawaiian villages, petroglyphs dating from ancient times to the 19th century, a burial site, and the largest known abrader tool quarry in the state, according to the Trust for Public Land. Abraders are ancient tools used for sanding, smoothing, and grinding. A well-preserved portion of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, or Ala Loa, an ancient coastal trail system, hugs the coastline. All of these historic and invaluable cultural resources are now protected for future generations. “Pōhue is an incredibly precious and culturally significant landscape that needs to be protected,” said Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Rhonda Loh. We are actively seeking community feedback to get a better understanding of the natural and cultural resources in the area. The park is working to develop an interim operating plan for Pōhue that explores opportunities for public use compatible with resource protection. We thank the community for your patience and for the manaʻo shared so far.” About Trust For Public LandSince 1979, Trust for Public Land has conserved more than 59,000 acres in Hawaii. The immediate priority is conserving lands that enhance trails and parks, protect food, forests, and water, and create opportunities for Hawaiian land stewardship. It works with local residents in safeguarding resources that are special and significant to their communities. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Hawaii Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Mauna Loa and Kilauea are two of the world’s largest and most active volcanoes. Both are located at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Most of the coastline where the bay is located is made of ancient lava flows, black rock, and sea cliffs that dart out into the ocean. Credit: ALLISON GODLOVe – Travel News Allison loves learning about new people and places and always jumps at the chance to take a trip. Whether it's visiting a town in her area or traveling across the country, she's up to explore! ![]() Vasco Cotovio and Alex Hardie, CNN • Updated 18th July 2022 (CNN) — One of the United Kingdom's largest airports suspended flights on Monday after high temperatures damaged a runway. Temperatures soared up to 37 degrees Celsius (about 99 degrees Fahrenheit) in some parts of the country. London Luton Airport announced the situation via Twitter and updated its status when the airport resumed operations on Monday evening. An "essential runway repair" was required "after high surface temperatures caused a small section to lift," the airport said on Twitter. Full operations resumed just after 6 p.m. in London. Luton Airport's announcement came hours after the Royal Air Force (RAF) paused all flights to and from Brize Norton, its biggest air base, in Oxfordshire after a report from Sky News suggested that the runway had "melted" The UK Ministry of Defence tweeted a statement on flights at Brize Norton on Monday afternoon. "During this period of extreme temperature flight safety remains the RAF's top priority, so aircraft are using alternative airfields in line with a long-established plan. This means there is no impact on RAF operations," the statement said. Meanwhile, both Network Rail and Transport for London (TfL) have advised passengers against travel on Monday and Tuesday, unless for "essential journeys," because of the hot weather. Train speed restrictions have also been introduced to protect railway tracks. On Friday, the UK's Met Office issued its first ever "red" warning for extreme heat for Monday and Tuesday, with temperatures predicted to reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in some parts of the country. The Luton Airport shutdown is the latest incident in a turbulent summer for UK travel that's seen thousands of flights canceled, huge security queues and countless reports of delayed or lost baggage. Last week, Heathrow Airport announced a 100,000 a day passenger cap until September 11 and asked airlines to stop selling tickets for travel this summer as it struggles to deal with high demand and staffing shortages. Top image: Empty check-in desks at London Luton Airport. (Dinendra Haria/SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty Images) Cruise Ship Travel During COVID-19
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