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by ArabianBusiness.com staff writer on Wednesday, 11 February 2009
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Our forward bookings are also starting to show a trend for the aspiring luxury traveller to opt for destinations within Asia and Africa, where luxury hotels and resorts are usually more affordable.
Dey: In all upscale market segments, numbers may not drop but clients will expect better value.
What are the hot travel destinations for luxury travellers in 2009?
The Middle East is seen as much less exposed to the economic crisis and therefore a real target area for the luxury sector.
Balsom: Europe is always a popular destination for the Middle Eastern luxury traveller and the strengthening of the dirham makes European cities such as London, Paris and Milan a particularly attractive proposition at the moment.
Adams: Malaysia, Thailand and other Asian countries like Bali are leading the way in 2009, while Sri Lanka, Jordan and Oman will be the biggest winners in the short-break market.
Dey: I feel there will be an increase in traffic towards the US and South America, Scotland, Ireland and Scandinavian countries may be sought after. Much depends on us travel agents to create awareness for new destinations and properties.
What was the general mood of exhibitors at ILTM?
Balsom: The general mood was cautious; many felt it was a case of having to wait and see what the New Year would bring.
Adams: The majority of suppliers were hesitant about how 2009 would unfold and most had already seen a drop in business from core markets within the US and Europe. This has put a spotlight on the GCC with suppliers keen to establish key partnerships with Dnata.
Was it easier to negotiate deals with suppliers at this year's event compared to previous years?
Balsom: There was a definite eagerness to explore key emerging markets.
The Middle East is seen as much less exposed to the economic crisis and therefore a real target area for the luxury sector.
Adams: Dnata Holidays secured increased allotments, lower release dates, better rates and special offers for the key travel periods in 2009 as the market becomes more competitive.
Dey: Suppliers were very flexible and co-operative and we all ended on a ‘win win' note.
Luxury travel trends
Luxury travel buyers at ILTM 2008 noted the following luxury trends for 2009:
• High Net Worth Individuals will still travel but will demand better value for money.
• Many Arab National families are immune from the global credit crisis and will travel.
• There will be an increased interest in North America due to the increase in direct flights from the Gulf to US destinations.
• Asia will remain top pick as it offers best value for money, with emerging destinations including Bali.
• With the US dollar and Gulf currencies strong against Pounds Sterling and the Euro, traditional European city destinations will make a resurgence.
• Sri Lanka, Jordan and Oman will be the biggest winners in the short-break market.
• Luxury travellers now demand that every aspect of their trip is an experience in its own right.
• Luxury travellers will expect a seamless service that reflects the price tag and is tailored to their individual requirements.
• All luxury travel providers are cautious about what 2009 will bring and are therefore seeking stronger partnerships with agents and operators and securing favourable deals.
• As many prime source markets such as Europe dry up, luxury travel providers are looking to the Middle East for business.
Luxury travel buyers at ILTM 2008 noted the following luxury trends for 2009:
• High Net Worth Individuals will still travel but will demand better value for money.
• Many Arab National families are immune from the global credit crisis and will travel.
• There will be an increased interest in North America due to the increase in direct flights from the Gulf to US destinations.
• Asia will remain top pick as it offers best value for money, with emerging destinations including Bali.
• With the US dollar and Gulf currencies strong against Pounds Sterling and the Euro, traditional European city destinations will make a resurgence.
• Sri Lanka, Jordan and Oman will be the biggest winners in the short-break market.
• Luxury travellers now demand that every aspect of their trip is an experience in its own right.
• Luxury travellers will expect a seamless service that reflects the price tag and is tailored to their individual requirements.
• All luxury travel providers are cautious about what 2009 will bring and are therefore seeking stronger partnerships with agents and operators and securing favourable deals.
• As many prime source markets such as Europe dry up, luxury travel providers are looking to the Middle East for business.
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