The current economic turmoil has had a dramatic effect on travel plans and increasingly members are contacting us for guidance. Here are some of the frequent questions, major trends and how to navigate the landscape.

QUESTIONS

Are all of the hotels on sale? No, though occupancy rates have already begun to drop in all categories, the high-end of the market has not slashed its room rates and the best brands probably will not. What they may do is offer special packages with added values such as reimbursed airfare or stay three nights, get a fourth one free. Hotels are more willing to work with partners like Indagare, so members can benefit. Also, members can give us their wish list of properties to keep an eye and alert them to specials.

Has everyone canceled for Christmas? Cancellations have been more common and are increasing, however, holiday bookings at sought-after properties are solid. For instance, while last year there was little or no movement from wait lists at top Colorado and Caribbean properties, this year a number of members have gotten late-booked villas and rooms. Also, the closing of the Four Seasons Nevis after hurricane damage resulted in a new scramble for resort spots at warm-weather destinations, so many open rooms have been filled.

Should I wait for prices to drop to book? Overall, the customer is regaining negotiating power and minimum-stay requirements have become negotiable at some properties. If you are truly flexible in dates and destinations, you may find deals. However, you may also be left without flights or any satisfactory options.

How do I get a better deal? Be flexible and take advantage of changing circumstances. For instance, a number of members have decided to benefit from the strengthening dollar and head to Europe for Thanksgiving or Christmas. What they’ve found: hotel rates at five-star properties that are half the cost of comparable ones in the sun or on slopes.

TRENDS

Flight Issues: The airline industry has been hard-hit by the economy, with two major consequences: higher prices and fewer flights. Hawaii, for instance, has seen twenty-five percent of its seats reduced from the mainland in recent months, so even if you can find good deals on hotels, it will cost a lot more to get to them. Unfortunately, this situation will probably get worse as more flights will be cut in January. To certain destinations, such as Argentina and Hawaii, we suggest securing flights before even exploring hotels.

Bargaining Power: The customer definitely has more leverage in this environment, and we predict that they will get more value on things big and small. As mentioned above, hotels will work with known communities, such as our membership, to create added value to entice members with special packages. They will also begin to reevaluate the cost of incidentals such as $10 charges for a cup of coffee and fees for wireless. You can expect more people to speak out against these—the economy has given people license to push back—and hotels to listen and adjust.

Quality over Quantity: Once you have bitten by the travel bug, it’s unlikely that you will forsake trips. In fact, travel research conducted in the past two months has shown that the majority of people would rather wait to buy a new car or other object than give up their holiday. Meaningful experiences, especially with those you love, are not indulgences; they are investments in life’s great moments. However, we expect that people will be wiser about researching, planning and selecting their trips, with an emphasis on quality over quantity.

Staying Home: The next great discovery may be just how much we have in our own backyards. Whether you live in London, Los Angeles or Greenwich, there is a wealth of culture and natural beauty to visit without getting on a plane. As we have said before, the elements that so often make a trip memorable do not depend on price or distance but on imagination and insider advice—and we hope to provide you with both.