Ginger Taggart, Vice President, International Advertising and Model Administration, IHG Resorts & Resorts:
“The past five years have brought a significant change in how people approach travel, largely driven by the rise of remote and hybrid work,” says Taggart. “One of the most profound shifts we’ve seen is the rise of blended travel — where work and leisure seamlessly coexist. Today, 66% of travelers in the U.S. and U.K. are combining business and personal travel, up from 53% in 2022.”
Jacqueline Dobson, President, Leisure Division, Internova Journey Group:
“The pandemic fundamentally changed the consumer’s overall approach to vacations,” says Dobson. “In the wake of the pandemic, we saw a clear move to prioritizing vacations and time spent with loved ones over material purchases or other non-essential discretionary spend. That pattern has not slowed down – if anything, it continues to accelerate with demand for travel at an all time high.”
TJ Abrams, Vice President, International Wellbeing, Hyatt:
“The pandemic has led to significant, lasting changes in the travel industry, reshaping the way we travel,” says Abrams. “During that time, the world was forced to slow down and in that pause, many discovered the value of prioritizing their health and wellness, setting the stage for a deeper commitment to holistic well-being.”
“As travel resumed, a clear rise in demand for experiences that support mental, emotional, and physical health emerged—from healthier food and drink options to fitness amenities and sleep tourism,” provides Abrams. “This shift signals a broader change in how well-being is perceived and integrated into travel experiences.”
