Travel trends in 2014

Here are some of my predictions and travel trends for 2014 that you should take into consideration when planning your next trip.

1. The questions for many Canadians in 2014 will be what type of trip will they take? or better yet will they be able to afford to take that dream vacations this year? One trend that all Canadians will face this year is that it will be much more expensive for them travel. With the Canadian dollar spiralling down against it’s US counterpart it will make every aspect of a trip more expensive. Your flights, accommodations, meals, visas, activities will be more expensive. With the US dollar being the global currency around the world and with it strengthening all costs associated with it go up. It doesn’t matter where you are in the world every country accepts US dollars and many use it as their main currency. So most costs associated with the travel industry worldwide will be reflected by this.

2. The other travel trend you will encounter in 2014 will be airline costs. Paying for your luggage. Airlines around the world have found ways to charge customers and make extra revenue and you will be charged for any checked bag you bring. Don’t be surprised that soon you will find these costs increasing as well. With the carry-on crackdown you will have to check more bags and this will affect you and your bottom line. More and more airlines are also scrapping the included meals on your flights and charging for all food consumed. As well you’ll be able to bid to upgrade on certain flights to first class for seats not purchased. Pay as you go airline airport lounges for those long layovers or travel delays. At the end of the day airlines are finding new ways to increase their bottom lines at your convenience and expense.

3. European River Cruises will be big this year and all inclusives will continue to be popular in 2014 but the fastest growing market in the travel industry is adventure travel. In 2013 it was a 263 billion dollar industry. In brief the definition of adventure travel is anyone who incorporates physical activity and cultural exchange with the interaction of the environment. Many are now searching and looking to travel with purpose. The term bucket list is becoming more and more popular nowadays. People want to see and learn about history, Unesco World Heritage sites, natural wonders, discover new cultures and traditions. As well with the latest health craze continuing many want to be more active on their trips instead of just relaxing on the beach. People are looking for variety. Discovering new exciting activities including testing their adrenaline pumping nerves or climbing that incredible mountain or finding zen like retreats. All these things can be described as bucket list activities. All of us are craving more from life. We are looking for genuine experiences, more fulfillment, feeling a sense of accomplishment and being a part of something bigger.

4. 2014 will be known for the year of the big events. There will be lots of people traveling this year because of the Winter Olympics in Sochi Russia as well probably the biggest event worldwide the World Cup in Brazil. The Commonwealth Games take place in Scotland during the summer. Panama will be celebrating its centennial year (100 years) of the opening of the canal. There will be many activities and events scheduled around this including many cruise lines taking advantage and offering special trips. This is a bucket list event for many. It is also the twenty fifth anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. As well the Chinese New Year beginning January 31st is becoming a bigger and larger event celebrated around the world. With the increase in wealth in China you will find it hard to book hotels as well flights to most Asian destinations or you’ll be paying a premium.

5. Travelers will start choosing homes over hotels. This will be the year more people choose the bed & breakfast, as well sites like AirBnB that will allow you to rent a home or condo in many cites and regions around the world at more affordable prices then hotels. People will opt to choose the local or more authentic “home” feel and place over the big luxury hotel chains. Even when it comes to budget travel there is affordable travel that allows you stay with a family while traveling in different countries and cities. As well couch surfing is becoming very popular.

6. The must see and do destinations for 2014 will be

Malawi is where you can take an African safari that allows you to see the Big 5 as well gives your incredible beach life without any of the crowds

Ecuador with its incredible biodiverse Galapagos Islands. The opportunity to hike in the Andes and volcanic Cotapaxi. To the adventures that await in the Amazon rainforest to cultural Quito a Unesco World Heritage city. This country is ready for a tourist explosion.

Scotland has incredible beauty, lush green scenery, a land of legends and castles. Scotland has something for everyone especially the outdoor adventure traveler.

Nepal is a magical place secluded from the rest of the world. With its ancient traditions, incredible beauty, cultural history and the Himalayan Mountains as your playground. This is an epic trip for any adventure enthusiast. Check out Odyssey Treks 17 Day Exploring Kathmandu and Trekking Everest Base Camp to discover one of the greatest trips you’ll ever experience.

Whatever 2014 holds for the travel industry go out and make travel a part of your life and make it your best year yet. Because travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer!