With COVID-19 restrictions all but a distant memory, the world of travel is set up to have a nice return this summer, but what should travelers be wary of when returning to the road or skies?
Arati Menon, the Global Digital Director for Condé Nast Traveler, joined KCBS Radio’s Alisa Clancy to talk about what travelers in a post-COVID world should expect.
With new research from Visitors Coverage suggesting that nearly 88% of travelers are more inclined to do so this summer than they were in 2022, Menon says that her company has been working to put together its top recommendations for its 2023 Hot List.
“Hot List is… your definitive guide to the best travel experiences this summer and beyond,” Menon said. “It is the hottest new hotels and resorts. The best new restaurants. The most exciting new museums, modes of transportation, cruises, etc.”
Menon says that the recommendations on the Hot List are going to set new standards for travel and that those looking for something new and exciting after three summers of COVID-19 will want to check it out.
While the pandemic may have thrown a wrench into the travel world, many have worked to adapt and modernize for would-be guests and travelers.
Now, those looking to explore once more should not expect what they experienced in 2019, or even throughout the last few summers.
Menon shared that iconic hotels like the Hotel Chelsea in New York City — and more across the country and abroad — have been renovated to offer new experiences for those traveling this summer.
Even with prices skyrocketing throughout the last year, leisure travel is being viewed as an important expense for over 75% of Americans this summer, according to a recent American Express Travel survey.
The survey also ranked the top destinations in the U.S. for travelers this year, with New York City being number one, followed by Las Vegas, Nevada; Los Angeles, California; Seattle, Washington; and San Francisco, California.
Altogether, the American Express survey found that 46% of Gen-Z and Millenials have been inspired to travel this summer because of Instagram, while 29% said they were inspired by TikTok. Overall, 60% said they chose a destination because it looks great in photos and videos.
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