Luxury Travel Still on the Rise: Exotic Locales Draw Guests for Holiday Getaways

October 1st, 2008 Posted in Destinations, Holidays

Raquel Baldelomar, a hospitality industry consultant and the official spokesperson for Luxury Travel & Living (www.LuxuryTravelandLiving.com), finds that exotic locales will continue to draw top guests and prosper during the current economic slowdown. While medium-priced hotels and discount lodgings may experience a drop in bookings, both in the United States and abroad, premium destinations will remain a major draw among the world’s elite travelers.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) October 1, 2008 — Raquel Baldelomar, a hospitality industry consultant and the official spokesperson for Luxury Travel & Living (www.LuxuryTravelandLiving.com), finds that exotic locales will continue to draw top guests and prosper during the current economic slowdown. While medium-priced hotels and discount lodgings may experience a drop in bookings, both in the United States and abroad, premium destinations will remain a major draw among the world’s elite travelers.

“Niche luxury markets have the ability to transcend the current economic slowdown because they offer unparalleled attractions and first-rate accommodations. Travelers who visit these places are not motivated purely by price – cost is a more significant factor among middle income families who plan to stay within the United States – and these elite guests want a high quality vacation,” says Raquel Baldelomar.

Notable destinations include:

* Brazil

* Tanzania

* Australia

* The Maldives

* New Zealand

* Bora Bora

According to recent statistics from Luxury Travel & Living, the average online booking rate for luxury hotels has increased in 2008 from the prior year. “The average online booking rate for the Luxury Travel & Living web site increased from $550 per night for 2007 to $795 per night for 2008. This shows how, even during these economic difficulties that some people face, luxury hotels are continuing to prosper,” declares Baldelomar. Households earning $100,000 or more have been taking a larger share of hotel rooms since 2000 and now account for about a third of hotel stays, according to D.K. Shifflet & Associates in McLean, Va.

Holiday Getaways: Exoticism and Leisure:

For luxury travelers, many top international attractions reflect a perfect sense of intimacy for the holidays. “Some of the most exotic locales – particularly throughout Australia and the South Pacific – are ideal getaways this Christmas, combining superb weather and the very best accommodations. These locations are unforgettably beautiful and discreet,” states Baldelomar.

Contact Information
Lewis Fein
Raquel Baldelomar

http://www.LuxuryTravelandLiving.com

Tags: Exotic Destinations, Luxury Travel, Travel