| Stringent airport security rules, influx of | | | | synonymous with safety, affordability, |
| finally fit baby boomers who have just | | | | entertainment, and adventure. Royal Caribbean |
| retired, changing security needs, and the | | | | cruises seem to be a major attraction for |
| constant growth of niche travel are some of | | | | this group of travelers due to strategically |
| the trends witnessed in the travel and | | | | and conveniently located homeports offered on |
| tourism industry in 2007. The tourism | | | | the Caribbean itinerary. Cruising is also |
| industry in the United States is booming like | | | | preferred by younger generations, honeymoon |
| never before owing to better infrastructure, | | | | couples, and families to break free from busy |
| increasing flight availability, and lowest | | | | schedules and enjoy a relaxing holiday on |
| airfares. Some of the prominent trends in the | | | | board. |
| word of tourism have been listed below: | | | | |
| | | | Green Travel is in: Since the year 2007 is |
| Financially strong baby boomers: Baby | | | | expected to be the warmest year, green travel |
| boomers, who have toiled through the years | | | | is going to be in great demand. Travelers |
| and have recently retired, are using this | | | | will be on the lookout for hotels and |
| time to explore new travel destinations. Even | | | | airlines with "green" ratings. Hybrid car |
| those who may continue to be a part of the | | | | rentals and eco-friendly destinations will |
| labor force even after retirement will | | | | therefore be important components of the |
| occasionally travel to distant places to take | | | | green travel plan. |
| some time off from their busy schedules and | | | | |
| relax. | | | | Connoisseur Travel in great demand: In recent |
| | | | years, Americans are particularly drawn to |
| Baby boomers are particularly flocking to | | | | Connoisseur travel, the most obvious example |
| spas and prominent health resorts to enjoy a | | | | being growing popularity of wine tours in the |
| quiet and rejuvenating spa vacation. Number | | | | past decade. Instead of exploring secluded |
| of chain hotels these days offer spa-like | | | | beaches, connoisseur travelers prefer to |
| amenities coupled with interesting health | | | | spend their time gathering information about |
| programs like detoxification wraps, | | | | their area of interest may it be wine, |
| aromatherapy, salt baths and so on to lure | | | | antiques, jewelry, architecture, or |
| this segment of travelers. | | | | historical artifacts. |
| | | | |
| Cruises: A growing number of affluent | | | | As the tourism industry grows, travelers can |
| travelers these days prefer to stay on the | | | | expect better package deals, and lower |
| cruise to enjoy a long holiday loaded with | | | | airfares. |
| fun and excitement. The cruise industry is | | | | |
| currently involved in providing cruising | | | | Online check-in is becoming very competitive |
| opportunities to middle income groups as well | | | | and better luggage courier services are being |
| through competitive holiday packages to | | | | offered. However, the security standards will |
| nearby destinations. | | | | continue to remain an issue in this year and |
| | | | you may also expect changes in the passport |
| For the boomer populations, cruising is | | | | requirements. |