While Thompson & Co. Public Relations works in a variety of industries, from health care to telecommunications, one in which we excel – and have a lot of fun talking about – is travel and tourism. This field is always changing, and we take pride in our ability to stay on top of what’s new and up and coming for our travel clients.

Here are a few of the biggest travel trends we see shaping travel conversations in 2019:

The road less traveled:

Travelers will look for places that are outside the norm in 2019. There’s a desire for discovery, finding someplace new and unfamiliar, or to see a familiar place with a new perspective. This makes shoulder and off-season travel more attractive. We see this directly as travel to Alaska in the winter continues to see growth.

Solo travel:

Another travel trend we have been seeing is solo travel. There has been a rise in recent years of travelers who want to go it alone, especially among women travelers. This trend shows no sign of slowing down in the next year. Consider how your destination can accommodate these solo travelers. Establishing a sense of safety is key.

Wildlife adventures:

Adventure travel has taken a turn toward opportunities that allow visitors to have close encounters with wildlife (from a safe distance, of course). Travelers are also looking for wildlife experiences that are unique. Like taking a Wolf Walk at the Alaska Zoo, where you can take some of their residents for an afternoon stroll.

Disconnecting or digital detox:

It’s no secret that we live in a fast-paced, over-stimulated and tech-heavy world. Chances are that you’re reading this on your phone while you have a few meager minutes of down time. Many travelers are aware that this constant engagement can take its toll. They want to get away from it all for a little while. While many places across the country are instituting “cell phone free zones,” there are many wild places in Alaska that still allow for a digital detox without having to go too far.

The Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, which is only accessible via the Alaska Railroad in the summer, is just as naturally beautiful as it is disconnected from technology. Visitors can take in the sight and experiences without constant cell phone pings.

 

Have questions about what’s next in travel or want to nerd out about industry and travel trends? Connect with Thompson & Co.

Picture taken while riding the Coastal Classic route on the Alaska Railroad.