Travel industry leaders are saying that “transformational travel” is the next evolution. It has similar elements of experiential travel, but taken a step further—it’s travel motivated and defined by a shift in perspective, self-reflection and development, and a deeper communion with nature and culture.
"The 1.8 billion Millennials worldwide do display some particular characteristics that influence their travel behavior", Sarah Catlett, Senior Vice President with global consultants Kantar Futures, told participants at a recent forum. For example, this “first global generation” seeks authenticity, is very adaptable yet also has come of age with a built-in expectation of having control of their activities. In travel terms, they want to experience new cultures, blend experiences across different types of trips, encounter and engage with local people and have authentic experiences, she explained. For destinations to attract Millennial travellers they have to be “genuine and creative”, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation, she advised.
That is an exact fit to travel to South America.
- Who would not be changed by hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? Not only for the cultural experience, but maybe the personal development of testing your limits and finding out that you are capable of peforming a physical feat like that trek - maybe you've never done anything like that before. The confidence that you gain could be life-changing.
- What U.S. child would not realize how well off they are when compared to poor village children? And after seeing how happy those children are with simple toys and little else, would they become less materially oriented?
- Why not visit a local food market so you can sample fruits and vegetables that maybe you've never even seen before? Or maybe visit a local artisan to see how they create the wonderful goods you see at an indian market. Or maybe overnight with a local family.
There are still plenty of places you can go to in South America to get an authentic experience and have some adventure, while at the same time also have time to relax and enjoy the scenery .
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