The
travel and tourist industry is one of the largest industries in the world, with
a global annual contribution in the trillions of dollars according to Statista
(http://nnw.fm/xQ1DT). Solely considering international travel, there are over
a billion international tourist arrivals worldwide each year. People book their accommodation according to
price, ratings, previous experiences, and other parameters, and the type of
travel varies widely, from high-end to low.
This
leads us to the topic of backpacking. Backpacking was often considered a form
of hiking or camping holiday. Today, it is one of the trendiest ways to travel
among people of all ages. With this rising trend comes the advent of new forms
of backpacking such as “flashpacking” and “poshpacking.” These terms are used
for the more affluent backpackers who do not necessarily need to travel on a
small budget but still choose the freedom attached to this form of travel.
Thanks
to the evolution of technology, more and more people are traveling light
without having to give up comfort. The world of the digital nomad is here and
the travel industry is gearing up to capitalize on these emerging trends. In
recent years, companies have increased the technological interaction with their
consumers making everything more accessible online.
Aside
from the rise of technology, different levels of backpacking have become more
accessible thanks to the introduction of cheaper flights, trains, buses,
hotels, hostels and dining opportunities. These are marketed online to budget
travelers and often include the option to make all-inclusive bookings through
one platform. To the new-age flashpacker, it’s becoming a way of life.
Travelers today are not isolated. They are followed by a digital world full of
tools.
According
to The Future of Backpacking by Ferda Van Vaals (http://nnw.fm/zkmS4), some of
the new characteristics expected by 2030 include infrastructure expansion,
greater tourist mobility, and growing global tourism and destinations. In other
words, the world will continue to become more accessible, and more people will
value experience rather than just material possessions.
Who
makes such expanding ease of travel possible? Today there are thousands of
travel agencies, both online and in-shop, in millions of locations. Online
travel agencies are making travel more accessible thanks to the options to book
flights, accommodation, and other factors through the Internet. However,
backpackers today want more. Travel agencies are reigning in and offering
all-inclusive booking facilities online, making the booking process, easier,
quicker and often cheaper.
Monaker
Group, Inc. (OTCQB: MKGI) is a technology travel company on the leading edge of
these ever-changing holiday booking trends. The company is made up of multiple
divisions and brands offering a real-time booking engine featuring a wider and
creative range of lodgings for a variety of backpackers, flashpackers, and
holiday makers. In addition to this, the company allows consumers to book from
an array of airlines, hotels, cruises, rental cars, tours, and much more.
The
company’s flagship brand, NextTrip.com, is the industry’s first and only
real-time booking engine that features alternative lodging (vacation home
rentals, resort residences and unused timeshare inventory), as well as a full
selection of airlines, hotels, cruises, rental cars, tours and concierge
services. These features are combined into a single, easy-to-use platform that
gives travelers complete real-time control when planning and booking their
vacations.
Most
NextTrip listings are in desirable locations in the U.S., the EU and the
Caribbean with about 20% exclusive listings, and the company anticipates rapid
exclusive listing growth because of its competitive edge, proprietary
solutions, and interest in strategic partnerships and acquisitions, in addition
to new travel trends.
The
company recently launched its own Monaker Booking Engine and Premium Service
for property owners, opening its offerings up to an even broader variety of
consumers.
For
more information, visit www.MonakerGroup.com.
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MissionIR is committed to connecting the investment community with companies that have great potential and a strong dedication to building shareholder value. We know our reputation is based on the integrity of our clients and go to great lengths to ensure the companies represented adhere to sound business practices.
Sign up for “The Mission Report” at www.MissionIR.com
Please see disclaimer on the MissionIR website http://www.missionir.com/disclaimer.html
