| National News
Business travel continues to rebound in ’05
The recently released American Express Global Business Travel Forecast for 2005 indicates a continued steady revival of the global business travel industry. Although the pace varies significantly by region and country, published air and hotel prices are expected to rise incrementally next year as business travel demand recovers, outpacing the growth of supply in several markets. At the same time, increased competition, particularly in the airline sector in several regional markets, is likely to dampen any significant increase in business travel costs.
Source: Travel Advance
Ladies-only outings
Thousands of women, married and single, middle-aged and older, want to take challenging vacations to fulfill their dreams. They search out opportunities to join other women who want to hike, climb, dive, kayak and cycle rather than go it alone. They also seek less strenuous trips to learn about art and explore the wonders of nature, and to shop and go to the theater. “From 1995 to 2004, the number of firms that cater to women-only travelers has risen 300 percent, from seven firms to 21,” said Marybeth Bond, author of "Gutsy Women."
Source: Travel Advance
Tourists on a roll
In cities from Paris to Vancouver, the Segway HT (human transporter), the $3,000-plus space-age two-wheeler, has found some enthusiastic supporters: tourists. An HT rental can help travelers get closer to the sights than a bus, while sparing the fatigue of a walking tour. David Meban, owner of City Segway Tours, added several Segways to his bike tour business in Paris. The Segway rentals took off, so he branched out, starting tours in Nice on the Riviera, New Orleans, Chicago and Washington.
Source: Travel Advance
Home for the holidays
Signs of momentum buoy travel suppliers as Americans plan to be reunited with family and friends during the coming holiday season. A survey by American Demographics and Ipsos North America found that 35 percent of Americans plan to travel during the 2004 holiday season. Asked to choose from a list of items that they regard as the most important ones to take on a holiday trip, including cell phones, laptops, gifts for family and friends and pillows, the number one answer, by far, was cash.
Source: Travel Advance |
