Romantic Travel Trends for 2009

The new year brings new changes to the romantic travel world, especially in these economically turbulent times. What's ahead for romantic travelers? Lovetripper.com asked Eleanor Wilson, publisher of www.tripsandtrends.com and a travel pro with over 33 years in the travel industry, for her predictions of what's coming in the year ahead.

As we look to 2009, what trends are you seeing in terms of hot destinations for romantic travelers?

Hot destinations at the moment are much closer to home: tropical Caribbean islands; the romance of France found just across our northern border; quaint Mexican towns with a distinct Spanish flavor; a return to train travel and to landmark sights in the USA, such as the California coast for dramatic scenery coupled with affordable fun things to do.

In light of the current economic climate, are you seeing new trends from hotels and resorts courting the romantic traveler?

In a downside for the travel industry—whether from natural disasters, terrorism or a bad economy—suppliers mainly rely on deep discounting, and we’re certainly seeing a lot of that. Since it has proven a bit difficult to return to ‘norm’ once you discount, smart marketers lean more toward value offerings: more ‘bang for the buck.’ On the romantic side, the trend right now is free weddings, especially as part of the all-inclusive menu. For anyone planning a destination wedding in the Caribbean or Mexico, this is the time to check out those all-inclusive properties. Save big while still having a wedding to remember in a very romantic tropical setting.

tripsandtrends.com spotlights ‘Hip Trips’ around the globe. Can you give us an example of a Hip Trip that’s romantic and yet affordable?

Yes, I’m featuring one now to Pink Beach Club in Bermuda’s exclusive Tucker’s Town, complete with dinner under the stars at a torchlit table in the sand. This is low season in Bermuda, so a Garden Cottage from now through March 14 at $445 per night includes full breakfast, a lavish tea, plus a five-course gourmet dinner daily. I’m also listing budget hotel deals for winter, but they’re coming in so fast, it’s a full-time job.

Cruises have hit a new low, and I’m talking $129 for three nights! Discounting is happening across the board on Norwegian, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Oceania and Celebrity, to name the most prominent.

Of course, in all these bargains certain restrictions apply; dates are limited; resort fees, port charges, taxes are added, etc. The bargains are out there right now, but in such tight cash flow times, some suppliers become less forthcoming than others. When choosing your special getaway, put those dreams aside for a moment and be practical. Read the fine print carefully!