The ever popular “girls-getaway” has gone upscale and extends beyond the traditional weekend escape, reveals a new poll of 246 American Express Travel agents.
“The poll, which found an increase in ‘girls-getaways’ according to two-thirds of agents, also found that women traveling together are seeking more active and luxurious vacations,” said American Express.
Three in four agents said that “girls-getaways” – including vacations with girlfriends or female relatives – are a significant trend.
While spa, beach and shopping vacations still dominate as favorites for “girls-getaways,” agents say women are increasingly taking cruise, culinary, city and active vacations that include golf (36%), skiing (33%), scuba diving and biking (20%).
More than two-thirds (68%) of agents polled reported that when traveling together, women are indulging in more luxurious vacations than in years past.
The majority of agents (56%) say these getaways are not merely weekend retreats, rather they are between 4-7 days long.
While away, women are splurging on ultra-customized tours and experiences (42%), traveling first or business class (36%), and staying in private villas (20%). More than one-third (35%) of agents said women are spending between $2,600 to $5,000 per person when traveling with a group of girlfriends or female relatives.
Even bachelorette getaways are going more upscale, say 57% of agents polled.
In order by ranking, agents cited the most popular “girls-getaway” destinations as: the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Canada and South America.
“Many women consider their ‘girls-getaways’ to be the highlight of their year,” said Audrey Hendley, vice president of American Express Travel.
Report by David Wilkening
