Each year new trends emerge that can change the fortunes of global hoteliers very quickly. Just like clothes, music, and art, certain destinations can go in and out of style – and in again – over time. Travellers discover a new ‘it’ destination or follow gradual societal shifts and all of a sudden some places are more popular than ever while others are wondering why results have dipped.
TripAdvisor always has its finger on the pulse when it comes to traveller behaviour and has identified what the preferences for travellers to the US will be in 2019. While the following destinations may not receive the highest volume of travellers, they’re the locations TripAdvisor expects will be heavily on the rise next year.
Here’s the top five.
1. Kapaa, Hawaii
Meaning ‘solid’ in Hawaiian, Kapaa is a small town nestled at the base of Nounou Mountain on Kauai Island. It’s very tourist friendly with a diverse array of hotels, shopping centers, and restaurants. The Kinipopo Shopping Village is a favorite for its fun eateries and small keepsake shops.
TripAdvisor recommends travellers visit:
- Kauai Path
- Sleeping Giant Trail
- Kauai’s Hindu Monastery
2. Waco, Texas
Waco was settled along the Brazos River, halfway between Dallas and Austin. Only the 22nd most populous city in the state, it has many charms for the visiting tourist.
TripAdvisor recommends:
- Waco Mammoth National Monument
- Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum
- Magnolia Market at the Silos
3. Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is a beautiful port city in southeastern North Carolina. Established along the Cape Fear River, it’s also minutes away from nearby beaches. With an historic downtown riverwalk, there’s a lot to love.
TripAdvisor recommends:
- Airlie Gardens
- Historic District
- Riverwalk
4. Bend, Oregon
Only 21 miles from RDM airport, Bend is a natural playground for families and adventure travellers. Hiking and fishing along the Deschutes river, mountain biking and skiing at Mt. Bachelor are among the favourite activities.
TripAdvisor recommends:
- High Desert Museum
- Newberry National Volcanic Monument
- Deschutes Brewery
5. Boulder, Colorado
Situated a short distance northwest of Denver, Boulder is a city that sits in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, 1655m above sea level.
Boulder is famous for its association with American frontier history and for being the home of the main campus of the University of Colorado, the state’s largest university.
TripAdvisor recommends:
- Flatirons
- Boulder Creek Path
- Pearl Street Mall
For the full list of US destinations on the rise, visit TripAdvisor’s 2019 guide here.
If you’re a hotelier in these regions, now is the time to ensure your distribution strategy is optimised to capitalise on the increased traffic from interstate and international travellers. Market on as many online travel agents as you can and run promotions and packages on your website around the most popular attractions and sights.
