It’s no secret, the travel industry isn’t slowing, and 2024 is expected to be a banner year. We've researched the top trends of hospitality travel for this year and are diving deep into the realms of wellness wonders, the influencer revolution, tantalizing partnerships, the luxury renaissance on rails, and the heartwarming embrace of multigenerational travel. So, get ready to rethink your marketing strategy because these trends can elevate your hospitality brand to new heights.

Redefining Escape: The Wellness Wonderland

Picture this: a traveler's escape that not only takes them to new places but rejuvenates their body and soul. To incorporate this trend into your marketing plan, consider creating wellness-focused travel packages. Collaborate with renowned spa resorts and holistic retreats. Highlight personalized wellness itineraries that include yoga sessions overlooking breathtaking landscapes, spa treatments using locally sourced ingredients, and mindfulness activities inspired by the destination's culture. Take a cue from Six Senses Resorts and Spas, with locations in stunning destinations like the Maldives and Thailand, they seamlessly integrate wellness into the overall experience. From personalized spa treatments to yoga sessions, they showcase how a vacation can be a transformative journey for the mind and body. Showcase these experiences on your website and social media channels to attract travelers seeking a rejuvenating escape.

Beyond #Wanderlust: The Power of Travel Influencers

We've all fallen down the rabbit hole of travel content creators on social media, right? It's time to tap into that influence. Influencers like @muradosmann or @theblondeabroad have created content featuring vacation destinations, influencing their followers to explore new countries and book directly. Start by identifying influencers whose audience aligns with your target market. Reach out to them for collaborations that showcase your unique property. Don’t worry, we have a whole course on this.

Imagine a travel influencer sharing their authentic experience of your wellness retreat or luxury rail journey. This creates a ripple effect, with their followers becoming potential clients for your brand. Influencers are becoming social travel advisors - this is a must-have social strategy you can’t leave behind.

A Culinary Affair: Unleashing the Power of Partnerships

What if your travel experience wasn't just about the destination but a full-blown sensory extravaganza? Marriott International has taken a culinary approach to partnerships with its "Eat Around Town" program. This initiative involves collaborations with local restaurants, chefs, and food experiences to offer unique dining options to Marriott Bonvoy members. By combining travel with culinary exploration, Marriott enhances the overall travel experience and encourages guests to savor the local flavors.

So how can you apply this strategy? Forge partnerships with local businesses to elevate your culinary offerings. Collaborate with renowned chefs for exclusive dining experiences. Partner with local restaurants to offer culinary tours, showcasing the region's unique flavors. Feature these partnerships prominently in your marketing materials and on your website. Engage your audience by sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of the culinary collaborations on social media. Make your brand synonymous with an unforgettable culinary adventure.

All Aboard Luxury: Rediscovering Opulence on Rails

Luxury rail travel is making a comeback, and it's not just about the destination; it's about the journey itself.

Belmond, a luxury travel company, has capitalized on the resurgence of luxury rail travel. Their Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is an iconic train journey that transports passengers through Europe in opulent style. Belmond's marketing focuses on the nostalgia and luxury associated with train travel, enticing travelers to embark on a journey that transcends the destination itself.

While luxury rail packages may not be an option for you due to location - what discerning travelers are seeking are opulent amenities, gourmet dining, and exclusive excursions. Use storytelling in your marketing to evoke the glamour of a bygone era. Showcase the breathtaking landscapes that unfold on their journey to their final destination. Create a sense of anticipation and sophistication in your marketing materials to attract those seeking a unique blend of comfort and excitement. If luxury rail isn’t an option in your area, provide additional services like private airport transfers in luxury vehicles.

Generation Bonds: Crafting Unforgettable Multigenerational Adventures

Family vacations just got a serious upgrade. And you can’t say family vacation and not immediately think of one brand….Disney.

Adventures by Disney goes beyond the park gates and caters specifically to multigenerational travel. They design guided family vacations that combine adventure, education, and relaxation. From river cruises to guided tours, Adventures by Disney ensures that their itineraries appeal to every age group within the family. Their marketing highlights the magic of creating lasting memories together, appealing to families looking for inclusive travel experiences.

To tap into the trend of multigenerational travel, design experiences that cater to every age group. Create family-friendly itineraries with a mix of adventure and relaxation. Offer activities that grandparents, parents, and children can enjoy together. Feature testimonials from families who have had unforgettable multigenerational experiences with your brand. Use social media to share heartwarming stories of families creating lasting memories on your trips.

That’s your brief roadmap to revolutionize your travel marketing in 2024. Embrace these trends, infuse creativity into your strategy, and get ready to not just meet but exceed the expectations of the modern traveler. Your brand has the potential to be more than a service; it can be the catalyst for unforgettable experiences and Sawgrass Marketing can help you turn these market trends into a reality. Your journey to marketing success begins with us.