In our latest cover story, we look at some of the macro factors we can expect to see affect travel in 2023. Experts from a range of fields — hotels, tour operators, airlines, cruises and more — shared some of the key developments they will be watching in the future.
One question I will be paying special attention to is how travelers’ expectations will align with trip costs. This year, we saw travel-starved consumers throw budgets to the wind and book the trips they had been dreaming of during the pandemic. Next year, clients may be a bit more demanding, and will feel like they should be getting more service and value for their money. Fortunately, it seems like staffing is finally catching up with demand — at least in most markets — although consumers may be a lot less forgiving when it comes to their travel experiences in 2023.
One question I will be paying special attention to is how travelers’ expectations will align with trip costs.
Another topic of interest to me will be what the cruise industry’s rebound will look like next year. I don’t think the lines got enough credit for the enormous effort it took for them to restart operations this year. Basically, going from zero to full speed, while still facing media scrutiny, was a true feat. In 2023, you will see a much different situation, and I expect that a smarter, better-prepared cruise industry — with new ships, new destinations and new experiences — should have a successful year.
Finally, it will be interesting to see how airlines adjust to the year ahead. Certainly, they have woken up to the power of leisure travel, and there are signs that they have finally learned something about passenger preferences. If they can resolve their operations, staffing and service issues, it would help eliminate a lot of grief for travelers and advisors.
As we put the COVID-19 pandemic in the rearview mirror, here’s hoping that in 2023, your clients experience the vacations they have always imagined.
