Orbitz has announced that mobile commerce, travel as a gift, and flash sales will be the top three trends for travel this year.
Reporting that not only will American mobile commerce almost double itself this year, but it will also become an integral part of the travel experience. There was also an increase of almost 350 percent of flash sale sites between July 2009 and that same month in 2011. The growth in popularity of those sites has shown no sign of slowing down.
The travel company went on to underline the point that consumers are often finding greater value in giving the gift of memories and experiences instead of items that they purchase in shops.
Orbitz also looked into what consumers want from hotels this year, and found that people most want features such as:
• Transportation convenience – regardless of whether they are flying or driving to their destinations, travelers want it to be convenient and are looking for hotels with free airport shuttles and parking.
• Swimming pools – these are among the leading searched-for amenities at hotels and have been for two consecutive years.
• Extra offerings – when consumers look for hotels, they’re now looking for what they have to offer beyond the basics. They now want wireless internet, fitness centers, spa services, as well as the ability to bring pets with them during their stay.
Additional travel forecasts made by the company include their belief that the top travel destinations this year will be Austin, London, and Chicago.
