Wave season is a time enjoyed by most in our industry. As a peak time for cruise travel, wave season is when agents and vendors experience a surge in cruise bookings and travelers are reaping the benefits of great deals and vacation packages. However, as we approach this year’s wave season, the current state of the nation’s economy and its effect on the travel industry may become all too clear.
A recent article by Travel Weekly writer Ian Taylor described contributing factors of less consumer spending – high gas prices, rising personal debt and the increase in cost of living. A decrease in travel was predicted for the past few months; however the holiday rush of Thanksgiving and Christmas seemed relatively normal and consistent with previous years. Although numbers were slightly down, it seemed that the majority of people didn’t hesitate to travel and visit with friends and family. Agents experienced the usual last minute bookings while airports and travels barred the normal frustration over crowds and flight cancellations.
Thus, the travel industry is now facing wave season with open eyes. Will consumers take advantage of the seasons low prices to help drive the economy? Or will the looming threat of a recession detour travelers? Either way, one thing remains for sure. The travel industry is preparing for the unexpected, but hoping that the cold winter months are still inspiring snow birds to take that dream tropical cruise vacation despite the threat of economic downturn.
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