Business Traveller (Middle East)
TREND WATCH
A glance at what to expect in 2022
1 Testing and restrictions
Two years into the pandemic, international travel with restrictions will be maintained by both destinations and airlines in order to offer 100 per cent security to the consumer. COVID-19 testing will still be in place as a preventive measure.
2 Conscious travel
Travel to more distant destinations, but with prolonged durations of stay, as consumers look to enjoy as much of each place they visit as possible. American Express’ Global Travel Trends Report reveals 72 per cent of respondents are passionate about travelling to destinations to help boost tourism revenue and the local economy.
3 Ed-ventures
Combining education and holidays for the youngest members of the family. While adults may need to telework or attend meetings, their children can be doing workshops and learning in a playful way.
4 Pet travel
A rise in pet ownership during the pandemic is leading to increased interest in pet travel and the development of hotel dog parks, pup perks and more. Recent 2021 Hilton.com booking data reveals ‘pet-friendly’ is the third most-used booking search filter.
5 Comfortable travel
Consumers want more comfortable and approachable travel and dining experiences. And while many are happy to retire their yoga pants for designer jeans and blazers, tuxedos and gowns are no longer the norm. People want to have a high-level dining experience, but also to be casual. Travellers will still expect meticulous service, but they won’t want to be in a stiff environment. Personalisation will outperform pretention.