It would appear that the troubling economic times we’ve all recently experienced may well be in our rear-view mirrors now, but the road to the top is still steep, and frankly a bit foggy. So what now?
Well, welcome to a new market! A market of boomers seeking out unique travel opportunities in which their sense of independence, desire for immersion, and quest for a deeper sense of cultural education and awareness is in focus. Although boomers may not identify themselves by their given name, they are a distinct market segment that those in the travel industry will want to take heed of. Those within the designated birth dates between 1946 and 1964 fall into the market-derived name of “Boomers.” The indicators stress that they are more independent both in thinking and in action. They seek travel opportunities that offer a unique angle, more cultural immersion, and meet their high demands for value and experience. Many boomers are already well-traveled and now seek unique destinations, possible “voluntourism” opportunities where their sense of community and altruism can be met with rewarding results.
Our friends at myitchytravelfeet.com , heatheronhertravels.com, and holeinthedonut.com have recently expressed how boomers seek travel opportunities in a more frugal way then the preceding generations. Focusing more on the value of travel (where cost in not a focus), but where amenities should provide rewarding results. They seek upscale accommodations, but no longer see the value in extravagancy. Their focus has now shifted to real value. Instead of just enjoying a rare bottle of wine, they now wish to meet the owners of the vineyard – even have dinner with them even. Instead of donating their money to a cause, they now seek tangible interaction with those they seek to help.
All this parlays into the fact that those in the travel industry should rekindle their understandings and interpretations of adding true value into their offerings. Strong amenities, well-appointed accommodations, interaction with locals in given destinations and an educational element can offer a resounding value and mental enrichment to those seeking a true experience abroad.
Group travel can render significant rewards for those seeking to meet new people while absorbing cultural experiences. This often translates to new friendships among boomers of like interests, further enhancing their desire for connecting with others. Adding an educational element, via an accompanying tour expert or location historian can bring new appreciations to otherwise mainstay destinations. These elements remove the “tourist” aspect to travel and brings a deeper focus to interaction and participation while abroad.
So, we at Academic Travel Abroad are eager to hear more! What do you seek in your travel experiences? What destinations entice you the most and why? Tell us more about your travel aspirations and where you find specific value when traveling. What has been your most rewarding experience so far?
Posted by academictravel 
