The Gift of Adventure: Surprising Loved Ones with Travel Experiences
This holiday season, ditch the traditional gifts and give the gift of adventure. According to a recent survey, three out of four Gen Zs and millennials would rather receive a fun experience or trip than a physical gift. And it’s not just the younger generation – half of consumers plan to buy a travel experience for someone this year.
The Challenges of Gifting Travel
However, gifting travel can be complicated. One of the biggest hurdles is booking exact dates, with 34% of consumers citing this as a major issue. Another challenge is lacking the necessary details to book on behalf of another person, which affects 29% of buyers.
Creative Solutions
So, how can you surprise your loved one with a travel experience without getting bogged down in the details? One approach is to give them a hint of the trip without revealing the exact dates. You could give them a travel book, a luggage tag, or a small memento related to the destination. Then, when they open the gift, explain that you’ll be going with them on a date to be determined.
Gift Vouchers: A Convenient Alternative
If you want to avoid the hassle of booking travel dates altogether, consider buying a gift voucher from an airline, hotel, cruise line, or travel agency. Many companies sell gift cards directly from their websites, allowing you to choose physical or virtual cards that can be redeemed at a later date.
Personalized Options
Some companies offer personalized gift cards with photos or customized messages. For example, Delta Air Lines allows buyers to add a personal touch to their gift cards, while Marriott gift cards can be sent via email on a specific date.
Experience-Based Gifts
Instead of gifting travel itself, consider buying an experience that will enhance their vacation plans. Como Hotels and Resorts sells “gift experiences” in seven countries, ranging from night snorkeling in the Maldives to truffle hunting in Tuscany. The luxury Four Seasons hotel brand also sells gift cards that can be redeemed for spa treatments, meals, and experiences like golfing in Costa Rica or chocolate-tasting in Istanbul.
Local Experiences
If your loved one doesn’t have any travel plans, consider gifting an experience closer to home. Websites like GetYourGuide offer gift cards for over 60,000 tours and attractions worldwide, allowing your loved one to choose their own adventure.
The Key to Success
The key to successfully gifting travel experiences is to think creatively and consider the recipient’s preferences and interests. With a little planning and research, you can give the gift of adventure and create lifelong memories.
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