The Brazilian trade publication’s monthly overview recently released its own “Top 10” list of what to expect in the tour and travel industry in the USA’s fifth-largest overseas source market (about to reclaim its rank as fourth-largest), which follows.
If 2019 was a year to breathe a sigh of relief, but still tense, especially because of Avianca Brazil bankruptcy, soaring airfares (particularly domestic flights and flights to the United States) and the dollar hike, 2020 promises to be a bit better.
1. More flights. In the second week of December, Air Canada began a seasonal winter flight between Montreal and São Paulo, which is to be set on the company’s schedule in 2020/2021. The company will also increase capacity on the Toronto-São Paulo route, with the 777 replacing the current 787-900 from March. Other airlines, such as American Airlines, which will have a seasonal Rio-New York flight from this month, Delta Air Lines, Gol (expecting to return to 737 MAX operation) and LATAM (due to Delta partnership) have already signaled that will increase capacity in 2020. It all depends on the economy to correspond to the expectations. For us to have an idea, American has operated 118 weekly flights between Brazil and the United States, and today there are only 49.
2. More budget-oriented travels. Brazilians are increasingly aware of any spending on international travel due to the high price of dollar, which should remain in 2020. They will continue traveling, but are aware of the budget, cost-effectiveness and quality of what is being offered.
3. More Florida. Yes, Brazil will continue to be in Top 3 sales for Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Miami and other Florida destinations and attractions. Brazilians like the way they are received in the State, feel familiarity with it and have no language barrier problems. Florida will continue to be a favorite destination.
4. More destinations. However, you can expect people to look for new destinations (often in conjunction with familiar ones) and experiences. On the rise: Asia (with stops midway, which may be in Europe, the United States, Africa or the Middle East); cruises to different destinations (including river trips); West Coast of the United States; secondary cities in Europe and extreme destinations, like Antarctica.
5. Luxury, luxury, luxury. Luxury travel will always have a demand in Brazil, but pay attention. The luxury super tourist is diverse and there are regional differences: from the new rich to the intellectual rich. There are those who are looking for six star palaces and hotels and those who want the most local and conscious experience.
6. Accommodation is in hotels. Brazilian first-time travelers may even opt for alternative accommodation, but the Brazilian prefer to stay in hotels or serviced houses, such as in Kissimmee, Florida. But hotels need to offer benefits and value for money invested. Internet, shuttle service to attractions, breakfast, early check-in and late check-out and discounts on purchases, for example. The amount of hotel brands, however, confuses the Brazilian. They trust hotel chains and need to better understand what each brand offers and what type of guest it is intended for.
7. Family travel. It is and will continue to be the priority for Brazilians. The number of days off during summer and even winter holidays requires parents to take their children on a trip. Northeastern and southern Brazil, besides Rio de Janeiro, are the favorite destinations. Abroad, Europe is being more chosen for family travels and tries to topple Florida and New York. California is also keeping an eye on this segment.
8. Niches. Content trips, exchange programs, women traveling alone, trips for sport practicing, sports watching trips (remember we’ll have Tokyo 2020), trips to theme fairs, pop culture, and shows and concerts are on the rise, as well as wellness.
9. Domestic travel In Brazil, corporate travel dominates air travels, with about 60 percent of aircraft utilization. Domestic travel is a powerhouse, but it is often made by car and bus (something that has been growing strongly, since Brazil has not invested in railroads but rather in highways). Internationally, leisure dominates, but there are routes to the United States and Europe, in which corporate travels are very significant.
10. South America Asleep in 2019 due to conflicts and political crises, South America promises to come back in full force in 2020, whether in winter, mainly Chile and Argentina, or in summer. We will invest in events, exclusive content and publications that may help the tourism professionals to differentiate themselves and grow with quality.
To see the complete publication, click here.
