The pandemic was a strong hit for many segments of life, but travel was perhaps most affected. For some time, it was impossible to leave our apartments, let alone enjoy some exotic destination.
Luckily, those days are almost gone, and we are looking forward to new travel experiences in 2022. Still, it is obvious that COVID-19 changed the market as well as it changed us, our needs, and aspirations.
Here are some of the key insights into luxury travel in 2022 and beyond.
Travel Remains Volatile
Although we won’t be seeing the strict 2020 lockdowns anymore, travel is still not what it used to be in 2019. The new mutations, combined with the resistance to vaccination, further delay normal mobility.
Still, with proper vaccination and/or tests, it is still possible to enjoy high-end travel. For example, during the busy season (November to May), with Los Cabos being one of the top-rated destinations in North America, arrivals at the airport can easily be congested. In such situations, a travel concierge can be invaluable, helping navigate the complexities of post-pandemic travel, arranging private transportation, and ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience from the moment you land.
One way to circumvent a long immigration wait is to get airport VIP service. This is where an airport concierge meets at deplaning and takes you to express through immigration, gathering luggage and customs. They can also arrange transportation for you to your resort or villa.
Therefore, although things are slowly coming back to normal, it is necessary to stay flexible. Being informed and compliant with the latest COVID-19 measures is a prerequisite of hassle-free travel.
Because traveling comes with a dose of risk these days, getting a proper travel insurance package is a must.
Meaningful Travel Is the New Trend
Travel is no longer about conquering a destination after destination. Once it became scarce and unavailable, people remembered the original purpose of traveling. In 18th century Europe, young noblemen went on “tours” in order to grow as individuals and return with valuable life experience.
Therefore, 2022 will probably see many travelers completely changing their travel habits. Those who have seen themselves as nightbirds might invest in cheap camper conversions and spend more time in nature while on holiday.
Also, people are looking for unique experiences powered by cultural diversity. Lying on the beach is no longer enough. Why not interact with the locals, learn a few words of the local language, or participate in some of their celebrations?
Travelers begin to realize that in the process of learning about others we also learn about ourselves.
Yoga retreats, wellness and spa events, celebratory holidays are what people want in 2022. A lot of sailing tours, private yacht charters, solo tours, and family travel is expected.
Local Travel
While the national borders were closed, a lot of us learned that there is more to our region than we thought. The ability to travel globally before made a lot of us forget that the place where we live hides its jewels as well.
Therefore, instead of traveling all the way to Europe to try the famous Italian cheese and wines, a lot of people are expected to look for luxury experiences closer to home. They will look for local producers, and try to rediscover the new qualities of their home districts.
Also, this is a great opportunity for local economies, as well as wellness, sustainable, and eco-friendly businesses.
Private And Outdoor Experiences
As previously stated, the virus is mutating. Although much less deadly than before, COVID-19 is still there, and this makes a lot of people afraid for their health. Therefore, they will prefer to stay away from the crowds.
One of the ways to avoid the crowd is to book private tours. In such a way, travelers will not have to mingle with a lot of people and thus reduce the chances of infection.
Furthermore, people will tend to stay outside, in the open space. Again, the reason is reducing the chances of spreading the virus. Apart from that, people are tired of wearing masks all the time. They will look for experiences where it will be safe to take them off.
Glamping is becoming especially attractive for luxury travelers. People love glamping because they get to have a natural experience without having to give up on comfort.
So for example, out of all things a traveler can do in Puerto Vallarta, snorkeling will probably sound more attractive now. At the same time, some might think that getting a massage is too disruptive for social distancing.
Pet Travel
Even before the pandemic, the luxury pet travel industry was booming. And, after a setback in 2020, it now continues to do grow.
One of the main reasons is the fact that a lot of people got new pets during the lockdowns. A lot of dogs and kitties have a home because their owners were trying to cope with the drastic changes in their everyday routines.
Today, these people don’t want or can’t leave their pets alone while traveling. Thus, cities, airlines, and properties are opening their doors for dogs and other animals that travel side by side with their owners.
