Q: What Is The Vacation Eco System?
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A: The vacation ecosystem consists of all phases and facets of the entire travel experience including planning, going and sharing. |
The initial planning period (or phase) includes inspiration, the decision to travel, logistics and destination research, budgeting, evaluating purchase options and the booking process. The going phase is the actual travel to destination via plane, train, car, cruise or other means of transportation. This phase also includes lodging, sightseeing, dining and any other activity within a vacation. The third phase of the vacation ecosystem is two-fold. First, the wisdom imparted by locals, and the second part is the act of sharing with friends and family what has been learned, seen or felt during or after the vacation.
Phase 1. Planning
Learning (or continuing your education about) travel, the business of tourism and the companies who provide valuable products and services is fun! Get inspired by watching travel videos, television shows and reading articles dedicated to whisking you away to far off and close to home places. Talk with your friends and family about your most memorable trips and plan your next great adventure. Once you hone in on some particulars, make the decision to schedule the trip. Plan for it including a budget. Begin your research on which companies can help you such as a qualified travel advisor, official destination information, online travel agencies, etc. Consider the new "COVID 19 Travel normal" and what that means to you as it relates to travel insurance, cancellation policies and what to do in the unlikely event medical attention is needed while you are away from home.
Phase 2. Going
With all that work you put into your trip, this phase focuses on the companies which will potentially be needed to take your booked vacation. Airlines, cruise lines, hotels, car rental agencies and tour operators (private and small group tours) are just a few of the considerations. Your itinerary will also dictate what you and yours will be doing (or not doing) during your trip. Consider National Parks, state parks, beaches, theme parks (large and small), carnivals or fairs, museums and dining options.
Phase 3. Sharing
This is the most fun of all. This phase of the vacation ecosystem is two-fold. First, be open to gleaning knowledge from the locals in the place you are visiting. Concierge, taxi drivers, service staff, docents or anybody who lives in that particular place usually has advice on how to best enjoy their hometown. The second phase of this phase is the sharing YOU do with your circle of friends and family. This could occur during your trip or after you return home.
