Can Hawaii still inspire visitors? A majority now say that has become essential to travel. A recent report by highly popular Skyscanner pointed to some interesting tidbits. First, “travel remains a top priority as people continue to ring-fence their budgets and invest discretionary spend in leisure trips.” We concur that’s true.
They report that among their 1 billion monthly trip searches, 51% of travelers don’t have a destination or even dates in mind and are first seeking just to be “inspired.”
This is a fascinating look forward at travel insights and destination trends. We found that uniquely interesting, and it seems to speak to Hawaii travel. The concept is one we follow ourselves. We tend to pick destinations based solely on our current inspiration. And sometimes that leads to places outside Hawaii that also have visitor challenges that we can share with you.
Orlando vs. Hawaii?
Skyscanner’s data interestingly did not show Hawaii among its top 10 destinations with their customers. Rather, for U.S. visitors, the only domestic location that popped up in terms of popularity was Orlando, FL.
Travel remains strong. Trips are shorter overall.
Trip length is down for every destination year-on-year according to Skyscanner.
So how does Hawaii fare in terms of inspiring visitors today?
With the multitude of ongoing conversations around Hawaii travel sustainability, over-tourism, and the importance of preserving Hawaii’s unique cultural and environmental aspects, just how is Hawaii doing and can it continue to inspire travelers?
Travel issues in Hawaii.
There are many and they include extreme cost as well as endemic problems like over-tourism, environmental damage, cultural dilution, and inadequate infrastructure, plus recent and future restrictions or regulations put in place to help mitigate these issues. And yet in spite of all this, one thing stand out:
Hawaii’s unique appeal.
Hawaii remains a unique and inspiring destination for many. This can include its natural beauty, cultural heritage, diverse ecosystems, and remaining spirit of Aloha.
Hawaii travelers who have visited before, we invite your comments about changes you’ve seen over time and the impact of recent initiatives.
I’ve cancelled my late summer trip to Oahu this year, I’m not coming back till Dec after the upcoming May trip. Decided to go to the Yucatan instead. Going to see some Mayan ruins instead of the urban ruins in Honolulu… Hahah.
Best Regards
Hi Jay.
Wishing you great travels. We look forward to your return.
Aloha.
As a concierge of 31 years on Kauai, I think it was a big mistake trying to attract fewer mid-range travelers in lieu of high rollers. I understood the basic idea but we are now alienating a huge amount of repeat visitors who no longer feel welcome. The price gouging by some hotels is not pono or ethical. We need smarter solutions to traffic such as making it mandatory for hotels to provide shuttles for their guests to get to nearby locations.
definitely …and yes for the shuttles! They exist in most other places!
Honeymoon on Maui. Went to Maui every 5 years. Planning a trip for our 20th this summer. Prices are out of control. It’s heartbreaking, but we can no longer justify the trip. Desperately want to pay respects and enjoy the island. It is out of reach now.
Planning a trip to Italy instead.