Travel

Implications - Moving beyond fitness and wellness retreats, the shift toward mindfulness is making its way into the process of getting from place to place as well. Taking off thanks to both the increased interest in mindfulness as a practice as well as the portability of products that help facilitate it, this shift is reflective of more integration of mindfulness and meditation into consumers' day-to-day lives. [More]

Implications - Public transit systems are turning to unexpected partnerships to reinvent traditional transit experiences into something more engaging and memorable. A creative way to divert commuter’s attention away from concerns over delays and commuter time, transit companies are integrating fun, interactive enhancements that help bypass time through elements of surprise and delight. Whether it be tapping the comedic talent of Hollywood actors or partnering with popular ridesharing services to simplify trips, these examples showcase a willingness from traditional organizations to adapt and modify their services to become more consumer-friendly. [More]

Implications - Hotel brands are designing accommodations that float on top of water, straying from the similar but more ostentatious cruise options that the travel industry has long-offered. These environments offer the immersive living spaces that many vacationers seek, while simultaneously catering to their desire for tranquility and relaxation. [More]

Implications - Self-sustaining hotels and mobile homes are increasingly common as brands and consumers seek out more eco-friendly forms of production and consumption. These self-sufficient spaces take a load off of the environment, while also giving consumers a sense of purpose during their travels. [More]

Implications - Hotel designs are being inspired by journeys that have been abundant in pop culture and literature for years, namely shipwrecks and space travel. These environments are multi-faceted as they can be either luxurious or child-friendly, and offer niche hotel stays for individuals looking for more experiential travel options without any excess commitment. [More]

Implications - Brands associated with luxury travel are accommodating individuals with constrained budgets by offering more cost-effective, but still high-end, travel options. With the social media age putting more pressure on average consumers to live seemingly "luxurious" lives, this shift is able to accommodate elements of that preference in a way that remains accessible. [More]

Implications - Wedding registry platforms that allow guests to put money towards opportunities like travel are becoming increasingly popular. The preference many Millennial consumers have for experiences over things is driving this more dynamic expression of the experience economy. By nurturing the attitude that memories are more valuable than goods, brands are able to better align themselves with the values of their consumer and establish an authentic connection to a major life milestone. [More]

Implications - Clever fashion brands allude to the shared experience of mass tourism with faux souvenirs and editorials characterized by social cues that denote sightseeing. This commentary on the ubiquitous nature of the travel experience may also be meant as subtle criticism of the state of the industry. In highlighting the mundane nature of these mass-produced cultural experiences, brands are able to connect with consumers through authentic dialogue on globalization and unsustainable lifestyles. [More]

Implications - Hospitality brands are increasingly offering mobile accommodations for consumers seeking distinct travel experiences. These mobile hotels come with a shift in consumer preference, in which they increasingly seek out adventure and culture immersion over relaxation in their travel experiences. [More]

Implications - For those who can afford them, in-flight experiences that expand beyond comfort and entertainment are becoming increasingly common. Ranging from pet-friendly jets to in-flight aromatherapy, these products cater to luxury-minded consumers seeking more for the high costs they pay to fly, while giving brands the opportunity to elevate customer experiences with little extra costs. [More]