Skift Take
Actually, these results aren't all that surprising when you think of them in the bigger scheme of things. Today's honeymooners, many of whom are Millennials, are traveling with the same Millennial mindset we've been seeing across all types of travelers, regardless of whether they're traveling for business, leisure, or a special occasion like a honeymoon.
Today's typical honeymoon won't have couples flocking to far-flung regions like Europe, lingering by the pool all day, or ditching their wedding diets altogether. Instead, North American honeymooners are choosing to travel closer to home, be more active on the road, and are trying to do more with their already limited vacation time.
At least that's what a new survey conducted by StudyLogic at the request of Westin Hotels & Resorts suggests. In April, StudyLogic conducted phone interviews with 4,060 non-single respondents with household incomes of $50,000-$500,000, spread out evenly from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, asking them about their honeymoon travel experiences.
"Statistically, people are getting married later in life and, more often, have the flexibility to travel as a couple before the 'big day,' so what couples are looking for in a honeymoon has changed dramatically — from travel dates and ideal destinations to their desire to keep their wellness routine intact," said Bob Jacobs, vice president of brand management for Westin Hotels & Resorts.
So what prompted Westin to put this survey together? Jacobs said that Westin properties, particularly its resorts, which comprise about 25 percent of the global collection, do a lot of business related to weddings and honeymoons. "Honeymoons are a big focus of our brand and we wanted to highlight the great destinations we have and the things that we offer at Westin to honeymoon travelers, which is what led us to this survey," he said.
Data compiled by researchers compared the responses of travelers who took a honeymoon within the last five years compared to those who took a honeymoon within the last six to 10 years. Here's what they found.
Traveling Closer to Home
Seventy-five percent of couples surveyed took their honeymoon
