PPB November 2020

Americans, that most (57 percent) did not take a vacation longer than four nights in the past year. The trend was headed by Millennials, 72 percent of which took at least one microcation that year, followed by 69 percent of Gen-Xers and 60 percent of Baby Boomers, while 28 percent of Americans didn’t travel at all. Forbes reported that nearly all bookings (99 percent) made through HotelTonight. com are for fewer than five nights, 77 percent of which are for fewer than two nights. The top areas to visit, writes Forbes , are Atlantic City, Baltimore, The Hamptons, Monterey and Napa. And for those Americans who aren’t comfortable with traveling at all, there are virtual options available, too. Many companies, such as Club Med at Home, YouVisit and Czech Tourism, offer 360-degree tours of local landscapes and sites. In December 2019, New Jersey-based marketing firm Travel World VR launched an app enabling users to view 360-degree virtual reality videos of cruise lines, hotels, destinations, resorts and tour operators—all in attempts to better engage travelers, prospective travelers or curious wanderers to continue exploring, and to keep the global travel industry moving. With people spending a lot more time indoors, locally or at home, and to complement travelers taking long road trips to their destinations, companies in the travel, tourism and hospitality space can tap into changing vacationing trends by making comfort a top priority. Luxury hotels can conduct a product-with-purchase campaign where guests booking rooms in the penthouse or presidential suites receive a pair of branded sweatpants or a hoodie in the mail, prior to hitting the road, that they can wear on their journey, while those participating in virtual tours can send a mailer with a related promotional product—like a magnet of a landscape or monument—along with a self-promo resembling a postcard. With a quick transition to casual and even pajamas on those days without virtual meetings or conferences, companies can offer loose-fitting and cozy apparel that’s convenient and meets end users’ current needs, while keeping their branding top of mind. Loungewea r & Reso r t Wea r Whether end users are recreating a spa-like experience at home or traveling to it in person, the Terry Velour Hooded Robe is a high-quality heavyweight option for spas and luxury resorts, and companies selling personal care products looking to reach at-home end users. The hooded bath robe is made from 100-percent cotton and is available in white, navy and black (shown). Terry Town / PPAI 230911, S7 / www.terrytown.com Family-friendly hotels and resorts anticipating younger guests can welcome parents and their little ones with the Infant Hooded Towel With Ears . Made from a soft blend of 50-percent ring-spun cotton and 50-percent polyester terry cloth, details include a two-ply construction on the hood and ears, rounded corners, self- fabric binding around the edge and a tearaway label. Best of all, it features character ears, adding fun to pool time or bath routines. Made in one-size-fits- all in ballerina, black, key lime, white and navy (shown). LAT Apparel / PPAI 254347, S4 www.latapparel.com 32 | NOVEMBER 2020 | INNOVATE