Where Would You Like To Go???

A recent article in the January issue of the Travel Agent talks about the travel trends expected in 2018. A Dallas Morning News section of the January 14 issue gets real specific in describing “52 places to go in 2018”. Both issues indicate that this is going to be a good year to go somewhere!!

Now, that's the kind of prognostications we can live with!!!

Both the travel agent consortiums of Travel Leaders and Virtuoso report that from their research and surveys, Italy was the most desired location to visit in the coming year. Having been there several times, I couldn't agree more. Among the top travel trends were multigenerational travel, active or adventure trips, river cruising, and anniversary/birthday/wedding arrangements.

It's our opinion that the all-inclusive resort vacations for both families and adults-only will be a big draw this year. Of course Mexico and the Caribbean are the most popular, and for those who are trying to save a buck, the ones along the Mayan Riviera, just south of Cancun often are the best choice. One big reason these are so popular is that it is just a couple hours flight down there from DFW. You can leave at 8AM, be there by 10:30AM, get luggage and go through immigration, secure your transfer waiting for you, a short drive to the property and you are on the beach after lunch for the rest of the afternoon. A great escape from the daily humdrum at home!!!

The Cruise Lines International Association outlook for 2018 was very positive too. They determined that in the last five years, the demand for cruising has increased over 20%. From their surveys of cruising agencies, 80% of the agents surveyed stated that they are expecting an increase in sales in 2018. Factors behind the increased popularity for travel agents service is the ease of planning and valued expertise as well as the current affordability of a cruise. The majority of agents interviewed indicated that the upcoming “Wave Season” including February and March will be very strong, reflecting the stronger economy and uptick in the stock market.

We certainly don't have enough time or space to list all the 52 places suggested by the Dallas Morning News. One or two though are worth mentioning, just in case you're interested.

Just a few miles southeast of here is a city that is have a big celebration all year long. It's the 300^th anniversary of the city of New Orleans. There are events to be celebrated throughout the year and the best way to search for the best time to go would be to go to their visitors site: www.neworleans.com. They'll be promoting all kinds of activities from the Garden District to the French Quarter in this interesting and fascinating Crescent City.

Another interesting city celebrating an anniversary that made their list was Prague in the Czech Republic. They are recognizing 100 years of independence with concerts, events, and exhibitions, highlighting the music of Czech composers and art exhibits of Czech artists over the years.

Without going into detail, others that caught my attention were islands in the Caribbean that experienced hurricane devastation last fall, Estonia celebrating their 100^th anniversary of their founding, would you believe Chattanooga, TN and Branson, Mo.....just to name a few.

You would do well to contact your trusted and experienced travel counselor at The Travel Factory for guidance on these or any other exciting destinations. We'd love to help you manufacture the vacation of your dreams, so call us at 698-1421 or 800-760-4040. Visit us at 4150 Southwest Drive at the Plaza at Park Central, or peruse our website: www.thetravelfactoryabilene.com. Happy Travels!!