The lingering recession has led to a movement that has to be considered by everyone in the business. It's commonly called “conscious consumption.”
 

This social shift in consumer behavior blends newfound frugality with sustainability and it has seeped into every industry -- from travel to automotive.
 

“When people part with their money these days, they expect to purchase more than a vacation or a car. They demand valuable investments and meaningful getaways -- a trend that many experts believe is here to stay,” says PRNewswire.
 

"People will emerge from the current recession forever changed. The global recession has changed them,” said David Kenny, managing partner of Publicis Group’s VivaKi.
 

Environmental realities and new global leadership have also been factors.
 

“Conscious consumption and the changes in consumer attitudes have made a distinct impact on the travel industry. Gone are the days when vacation resorts could find success simply by touting a ‘sun and fun’ message that focused on pure luxury,” wrote the wire.
 

In response to this new attitude, travel offerings now strive to include meaningful experiences and promote togetherness among travelers.
 

“High-priced destinations have seen a huge fall off, but vacations in destinations that encourage connection to your travel partners, nature, history or culture are the new vogue,” says the site.
 

Amble Resorts, an ecologically and culturally sensitive real estate development company, is preparing to break ground on The Resort at Isla Palenque -- an island resort that will cater specifically to the newest generation of travelers searching for meaning.
 

This eco resort will be tucked into Panama's Gulf of Chiriqui, where meaningful vacation opportunities, such as sport fishing, snorkeling, hiking and jungle canopy-walks are plentiful.
 

"This destination will offer numerous on-site activities so adventure will be seconds, not hours away," says Amble Resorts President, Ben Loomis. He added:
 

"Purpose-driven vacationers will have innumerable chances to create meaning and vitality by learning and experiencing things indigenous to the island and its surroundings: history, traditions, art, and wildlife."
 

By David Wilkening