‘Debaucherism’ to become long-term US travel trend

Holidays catering for “debaucherists”, wanting drinking and 24-hour partying, are being seen as a long–term trend in North America.

Long haul destinations such as Buenos Aires, Cape Town and Macau are expected to benefit as travellers seek out the newest, outrageous place to party, new research shows.

The World Travel Market Global Trends reports suggests airlines using the new double deck Airbus A380 would also benefit from “creating the party atmosphere as soon as people step aboard”.

Social networking, blogs and video websites such as Youtube and Facebook are likely to “fuel the fire” as consumers post pictures, journals and films of their debauchery at different destinations.

Las Vegas is identified as the US capital of debaucherism due to the city’s gambling and nightlife.

“Travel and tourism suppliers have capitalised on these trends by offering the most indulgent activities, from expensive nightclubs and extravagant dinners to topless shows. To maximise debauchery, companies offer strip-club tours which include limo transportation and entrance to the clubs,” according to the report compiled by Euromonitor International.

Resorts such as Hedonism II and Hedonism III in Jamaica prove that sex sells by combining partying and eroticism with themed parties that can include fetish dress codes, the report says.

“The resorts encourage ‘anything goes’ behaviour to lure travellers. For travellers focussed on eroticism, resorts such as SinSation Adult Resort & Spa and Charli’s Angels, both in the Dominican Republic, offer good looking companions to cater for guests’ every need.”

The report highlights travellers aged between 25-34 who, like today’s tabloid celebrities, demand holidays that are about having an excessively good time.

“These ‘debacherists’ travel to destinations to experience out of control fun, including drinking and non-stop partying,” the report says. “The 25-34 age group earns almost 17% of the US’ gross national income, and this age group harbours travellers with a penchant for new types of debauchery,” it states. “After partying in college, young adults are not relinquishing their former habits.”

The report adds: “Looking to constantly outdo the last wild party, these travellers, who are ageing and earning more, will continue to seek out outlandish activities and experiences, making debaucherism a long-term trend passed down from generation to generation.”

by Phil Davies