New York Travel Festival 2015

The black traveler is the industry Cinderalla story of 2015. Although just rising to the mainstream consciousness with articles in the Huffington Post and The Daily Beast. Black travel is nothing new – but what’s so different? Brands are beginning to take notice, the community is taking charge of it’s image, and smart destinations are beginning to cater to this “new” audience. 

Bringing together some of the leading voices in #brandingblacktravel, the panel will address the following:

• How can brands connect with travelers of color?


• What are some of the similarities between millennial black travelers and mainstream millenials?


• Where are the nuances in the black travel community?


• How is social media impacting the visibility of black travelers?


• What are some of the issues still facing the black travel community?


• What are the nuances within the black travel space?


• What can the “traditional” travel industry learn from the recent success of online black travel communities?


• Who “owns” the message around the black traveler brand?


• What are the top destinations for black travelers?


• What are some of the trends among black travelers?

Watching the announcement of the Apple Watch, you'd think keyless entry and seamless travel were right around the corner -- but researchers estimate just a third of air travelers will use mobile boarding passes by 2019. So what is hype, and what is reality? Join our panel to hear from destination, tour and industry experts on the trends shaping travel now and in the future.

Takeaways:
- What tech will impact the future of travel, and what will go the way of the beeper
- How destinations are upping their game, from promoting off-season activities to expanded   offerings to foodies
- The kinds of experiences different generations are interested in, from Millennials focused on experiences, to the increasing number of Boomers traveling to volunteer
- What current and upcoming travel trends mean for industry professionals and travelers

When deciding where to go, travelers take into account many factors, including cost, climate, distance and safety. Too often, though, we overlook ethical considerations. Travel can impact the environment, politics and culture in positive and negative ways. This panel will explore what's at stake, how to travel in harmony with your values, and more.