As you read the predictions in our annual Preview report, you will not help but notice an optimism that pervades our interviews with industry leaders. Travel is accustomed to being buffeted by winds of change as well as economic and political setbacks, yet it has always adapted and prospered. Our prediction: it will do the same in 2019.

Read on for our annual prognostications by sector -- air, ocean and river cruising, hospitality, tours, the retail channel and more -- and interviews of five top travel executives.

Travel Weekly's Preview 2019

Preview 2019: The editor's note
Preview 2019: The editor's note
Any attempt to predict future events 12 months out, especially the health of an industry as diverse and dynamic as travel and tourism, is always perilous. We take up the challenge.
Introduction to Executive View
Five travel executives were interviewed by editor in chief Arnie Weissmann for their thoughts on what 2019 might bring.
Executive view: Dara Khosrowshahi of Uber
Executive view: Dara Khosrowshahi of Uber
"Our ultimate competition is car ownership. Eliminating car ownership is both a tall task and a giant opportunity."
Executive View: Calin Rovinescu of Air Canada
Executive View: Calin Rovinescu of Air Canada
"Whether the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement is a good deal or an average deal, it's better to have a deal than no deal."
Executive view: John Delaney of Windstar
Executive view: John Delaney of Windstar
"We do see lulls when the stock market has a horrible day. But it always comes back."
Executive View: Darrell Wade of Intrepid
Executive View: Darrell Wade of Intrepid
"The USA is just incredibly strong. It'd be impossible to overstate how strong."
Sector: Airlines
Sector: Airlines
Airlines will continue to be challenged by the pilot shortage. Carriers' use of the NDC sales platform will grow significantly. And the big question mark relating to airline operations and ticket prices will be fuel costs.
Executive View: Paul Tumpowsky of Skylark
Executive View: Paul Tumpowsky of Skylark
"The luxury space is more insulated from economic downturns. Maybe they fly to Europe in business and come home in premium economy."
Sector: Cruise
Sector: Cruise
In 2019, nearly two dozen ships are scheduled to be delivered. Two types are more popular than others.
Sector: Destinations
Sector: Destinations
More than a year after hurricanes Irma and Maria wreaked havoc in the Caribbean, their impact lingers.
Sector: Hotels
Sector: Hotels
Though the future continues to look bright for the alternative accommodations space, the category has inevitably started to mature in recent years.
Sector: Luxury
Sector: Luxury
Next year is expected to be another year of booming growth and evolution for luxury.
Sector: Policy
Sector: Policy
After November's historic midterm election, many wondered if the shift in the House of Representatives would impact Cuba travel policy.
Sector: Retail
Sector: Retail
Advance bookings for 2019 indicate another solid year ahead, but history and some recent uncertainty in financial markets remind us that the good times won't roll forever.
Sector: River cruise
Sector: River cruise
The theme for river cruising in 2019 is another year of growth and expanded options.
Sector: Tours
Sector: Tours
Tour operators in 2019 expect to see more destinations that were once considered off the beaten path become mainstream.
Richard Turen: What I see coming down the pike
Richard Turen: What I see coming down the pike
Here are some trends I think will play a role in the evolution of the industry.

Copyright © 2023 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 301 Route 17 N, Suite 1150, Rutherford, NJ 07070 USA Telephone: (201) 902-2000

JDS Travel News JDS Viewpoints JDS Africa/MI