05 January 2010

Group trips to beat out staycations this year

Simple vacations may beat out "staycations" next year, according to a recent survey by the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA).
 

The group found that 75 percent of its members predict international packaged travel will increase by about 18 percent in 2010. Just over half of members said domestic packaged travel will grow by about 10 percent.
 

Only 7 percent of respondents said they expect to see domestic travel decline in 2010 —an about face from last year when more than two-thirds said they expected sales to plateau or decline in 2009.
 

Those planning trips may also find more savings, with three-fourths of tour companies saying they are likely to lower rates next year by an average of 5 percent.
 

Where will Americans be going?
 

Tour operators say the hottest "up-and-coming" destinations include Latin America, Egypt and South Africa.
 

Italy was the top international destination for packaged travel for 2009 — a rank it has held for seven straight years.
 

New York City was named the top domestic city for vacation packages, planned itineraries and tours.
 

By David Wilkening
 

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