3 TRENDS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF TRAVEL

From bubble resorts, to a rise in workcations and a new breed of sustainably conscious consumers, the travel landscape is almost unrecognisable from that of previous years

- DECIUS VALMORBIDA

Given the vastly differing circumstances between continents, it is clear that recovery of travel will be varied and fragmented. But for all the uncertainties, we remain optimistic about the long-term future of travel. Amadeus hospitality data shows that traveller confidence is growing with a +60% increase in net reservations since the beginning of 2021.

As in all sectors, the key factor is innovation. From bubble resorts to the rise of workcations and a new breed of sustainably conscious consumers, the travel landscape is almost unrecognizable from that of previous years.

Predicting the future is more challenging than ever. But by calling on large swathes of data at our disposal, we have been able to identify some high-level trends. While the findings could evolve, there are clear indicators of what might lie in store for the rest of 2021 with the continued rollout of vaccines.

As we look to rebuild travel, here are three trends we see shaping travel through to August.

TRAVEL BUBBLES

Travel bubbles vary significantly in size, from individual COVIDsafe properties to resorts – and, on a grander scale, safe travel corridors between nations. Meanwhile, individual hotels are promoting themselves as bubble resorts allowing guests to travel together in groups and enjoy a holiday together as long as they have a negative COVID test.

The Maldives are a case in point, with the country’s archipelago of secluded resorts allowing for physical distancing amid breathtaking views. We have seen a 66% increase in searches from around the world for two-week trips to the Maldives compared to the same period in 2019.