Generation X is often called the “Lost Generation” - caught between Baby Boomers, who view using a travel agent as a given, and Millennials, who often turn to social media. Travel Agent spoke with expert agents, many Gen-Xers themselves, for this Special Report on what makes these travelers tick. We've looked at Gen-X versus Millennial travelers, top Gen X travel stats, recently-single versus still-married Gen Xers and how Gen-Xers view family travel -- now we look at where Gen-Xers like to vacation.
Although many multigenerational trips that Xers take are domestic, there is still a wide array of international destinations where the more seasoned clients among this demographic are willing to go to.
“Italy is always a popular destination and we are seeing families with kids wanting to educate their children and learn more about history, art, culture and food,” says Jill Taylor of Jet Set World Travel, Inc. in Chicago. “London and the UK is popular with soccer fans and a lot of families partner it with Paris.
“For spring break, we are seeing more Mexico, Turks and Caicos and Jamaica,” Taylor adds. “Africa is on the radar now. There are great malaria-free areas in South Africa that allow kids to have an amazing safari experience without having to take the malaria medication or to take the risk. Safaris are such an incredible way to engage kids as a whole family. The guides are informative and seeing the experience through children’s eyes is a highlight for the parents/grandparents. Plus, the value for money is fantastic at the moment.”
Domestically, Stephen Scott, owner and CEO of Travel Hub 365, an independent contractor of First in Service Travel, based in New York City, says Las Vegas is still making waves, Hawaii is on the radar, and Colorado is always popular for the skiing. Internationally, he tells Travel Agent that he is seeing requests for the Caribbean, Manila, Singapore and Shanghai.
Kendra Thornton, president of Royal Travel & Tours, based in the greater Chicago area, sees certain U.S. destinations continue to be popular with her generation, including annual ski trips to Aspen, Beaver Creek, Deer Valley and Jackson Hole. She also mentions that golf and spa/beach vacations are popular in Florida, Arizona and California. These close-to-home destinations are bound to be popular with this generation, she says, because these travelers have young children and work commitments that limit vacation time. In comparison, many Millennials don’t have children, which allows for more flexibility, while Boomers have retired and have more time and money for vacations, she says.
However, not all Xers are facing the same restrictions. Thornton recently planned an experiential trip for a solo, Gen-X traveler through India with yoga components included. Another trip she planned included a multigenerational aspect. The client wanted to bring their parents on a trip through Europe during spring break. And don’t forget Xers enjoy some fine settings, like the family that Thornton booked at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, which will open later this year.