AAA Examines Coming Travel Trends for Oregon

 
 
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AAA Examines Coming Travel Trends for Oregon

Published 01/07/2010

By Doreen Loofburrow and OregonTravelDaily

Cape Kiwanda, one of Oregon's biggest tourism attractions

(Portland, Oregon) - With the arrival of the new year, there are some encouraging signs that the travel industry is ready for a recovery, according to the Oregon office of the AAA. Americans are traveling again and they are quickly discovering the top trend for 2010: value. In planning a vacation you may not only discover excellent rates, but also complimentary giveaways such as a free night on a multiple night stay, gift cards, or spa credits.

Other important changes as 2010 begins are additional airport security measures in the wake of the failed Christmas Day terror attack. Traveling internationally may mean last minute changes to travel requirements and restrictions. Be sure to allow for extra time when traveling, and double check current information before you leave home for the airport. Visit www.TSA.gov for current information.

Now's the time to pull out the crystal ball and survey the travel landscape for the coming year. Doreen Loofburrow, Director of Travel Services for AAA Oregon/Idaho, has the top travel trends for 2010, and some practical tips for planning your vacations.

"Bon voyage!," she says, and has written the following.

The travel industry has responded to the economic downturn with special enticements encouraging people to travel again - great values. Planning a stay at a hotel or resort on your next vacation? Look beyond the room rate – there may be complimentary giveaways included that add up to an excellent overall value. This may include a 3rd or 4th night free, and spa, golf or dining credits. And Families may find “kids stay or eat free” at many resorts.

Cruises continue to be a very popular option for people looking for a travel bargain. Whether you choose a 7 day Alaska cruise, 12 day European, or 100 day voyage around the world, look for low rates from as little as $60 per day, including your accommodations, food, and transportation to a variety of ports.

Drive vacations will be a popular choice for many travelers in 2010. Vancouver B.C. is hosting the 2010 Winter Olympic games in February and between the global media attention and the enhancements to the destination this past year, Vancouver is ready for a tourism explosion. Another popular drive trip destination is the National Parks of the west. From Grand Canyon to Yosemite to Yellowstone, many national parks have recently seen record numbers of visitors. In 2009 the National Park Service announced several “fee-free” weekends. Look for these in the future when you are planning your trip – but be prepared for potential crowds.

With additional flight options and incredible offers from hotels and resorts, Hawaii is back on the list as a hot spot for 2010. There are new nonstop flights from Portland to Maui, and this offers a reasonable and convenient way to reach the island. Those looking for sun and beaches on a budget are grabbing up the specials at the all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, especially in the Cancun area. With most food and beverages included at all-inclusive resorts, there's no sticker shock when the final bill arrives. River Cruises throughout Europe have been very popular in the last year, and for 2010 look to Egypt as the new river cruise hot spot. Nile river cruise and tour packages allow you to visit the historic sites and antiquities, while providing a comfortable way to see the region.

The sheer volume of information and user-generated content available online has become overwhelming. Let alone the time it takes to do the research and reading yourself. Professional travel planners can help you cut through this ever-growing clutter, and assist you in finding the best values. A professional travel agent can be your vacation advocate and can save you time and money by arranging all aspects of your trip. That’s always important, because getting the most for your money is the one travel trend that’s popular every year.

 

 
     

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