7 Key Factors for Choosing Between Caribbean Beach Resorts - A Data-Driven Analysis

7 Key Factors for Choosing Between Caribbean Beach Resorts - A Data-Driven Analysis - Average Room Rates Through High Season December to April at Caribbean Beach Properties

During the peak travel season from December to April, the average nightly cost for rooms at Caribbean beach resorts generally sits around the $312 mark. Expect prices to potentially climb to $400 or more, particularly around major holidays. Keep in mind these rates usually reflect the full price plus a standard tax. While these prices are a starting point, you might encounter promotions that offer savings. Historically, Sunday and Thursday nights have sometimes shown lower rates. It's also worth noting that extra adult guests in the same room will incur an additional nightly fee.

When comparing different Caribbean beach resorts, your decision will be shaped by a mix of factors including available amenities, family-friendly elements, and dining options. It's not a bad idea to check availability during the middle of the week, potentially Mondays or Tuesdays, to see if you can find some good value. Resort offerings vary widely, so consider your needs carefully when choosing.

Examining the pricing trends for Caribbean beach properties during the peak season of December to April reveals a predictable pattern of higher costs. We find that room rates typically fall within a range of $300 to $400 per night, potentially even exceeding $400 during particularly busy holiday periods. This aligns with the increased demand for accommodation during the winter months.

It's important to note that these rates often represent the standard, or "rack," rate, including a tax component, typically around 12.5%. However, it is common to find discounts available. These discounts tend to be more prevalent on certain days of the week, such as Sundays and Thursdays. Interestingly, room rates might also be lower on Mondays and Tuesdays, suggesting potential savings for travelers with flexibility in their travel dates.

Interestingly, the room capacity for many properties extends to accommodating up to 4 adults, including options like pirate-themed rooms and standard rooms with multiple queen beds and pull-down beds. This could be a key factor for families choosing a Caribbean getaway.

Adding to the accessibility of many Caribbean beach resorts, we see resorts situated close to transportation hubs. For instance, some resorts are conveniently located near the Skyliner gondola system, offering relatively fast access to attractions such as EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios, within a 12-13 minute ride.

As we look ahead to 2024, the general pricing trends are expected to remain consistent with those observed in previous years. The overall pattern of peak season increases and weekday discounts is likely to persist.

It's worth noting that when more than two adults are staying in a single room, there might be an extra charge of about $25 per night. This could be an important factor to consider when budgeting for a trip involving multiple adults.

Ultimately, understanding these pricing trends, in conjunction with factors like amenities, location, and resort specific characteristics, allows for a more informed decision-making process when considering a trip to a Caribbean beach destination.

7 Key Factors for Choosing Between Caribbean Beach Resorts - A Data-Driven Analysis - Distance and Flight Options from Major US East Coast Airports to Resort Destinations

When considering a Caribbean getaway from the US East Coast, flight options and distances play a key role in shaping your experience. The good news is that many resorts are easily accessible from major East Coast airports, allowing you to maximize your vacation time.

The Bahamas, for instance, is a popular choice, standing out for its relative proximity to the US East Coast and a wide range of flight options, making it ideal for short trips. Similarly, San Juan, Puerto Rico, has cemented its position as a prime getaway spot for East Coast residents, with multiple direct flights available from major cities like New York and Boston. This makes it a particularly attractive option for those seeking a quick escape.

Aruba, known for its popularity among North American travelers, with almost 90% of its visitors originating from the US and Canada, provides nonstop flights from fifteen major US hubs. It consistently attracts travelers due to its accessibility and diverse attractions.

The availability of direct flights is a big plus for many travelers. Reaching certain destinations, such as Palm Beach, Florida, from New York City might only take roughly 2 hours and 23 minutes. This ability to reach sunny shores quickly is a major reason why the Caribbean remains a top destination for East Coast residents looking for a short break.

Furthermore, the sheer number and diversity of resort options throughout the Caribbean make it suitable for different needs and budgets. This can be overwhelming, but it's a good problem to have if you are seeking something specific. While many online tools can help estimate flight times and distances, using them can be a bit of a pain. Ultimately, the key for travelers is finding a destination and resort that matches their needs, while balancing the factors that are important to them.

Considering travel from major US East Coast airports to Caribbean destinations reveals a complex interplay of factors influencing flight options and accessibility. Many East Coast hubs, like New York's JFK and Miami International, provide a substantial number of direct flights to various Caribbean islands. For instance, a non-stop flight to Nassau from a major East Coast city typically takes around 3 hours, highlighting the relatively short travel time.

The cost of airfare to the Caribbean shows a significant seasonal pattern, with prices usually dropping in the fall, particularly during September, which aligns with the off-season for the region. Interestingly, these prices can decrease by almost 30% compared to December peak travel times. This seasonal variance is likely influenced by weather patterns and vacation trends, as the hurricane season potentially affects travel during the fall months.

Airlines are aggressively competing for travelers through their loyalty programs. Companies like American, Delta, and JetBlue have very competitive systems that can help travelers earn free or discounted flights through accrued points and miles. These programs are increasingly sophisticated, even allowing for upgrades from economy class to business class or first class when enough miles are accumulated.

However, budget airlines, sometimes seen as a low-cost option for reaching Caribbean destinations, can often lead to unexpected costs. Their fee structures for add-on services like baggage and seat selection can unexpectedly inflate the total cost of a trip by an average of $70 to $150 per round trip, partially negating the initial price advantage.

It's also interesting to see the growth in the number of new non-stop flights emerging from the East Coast to less popular Caribbean destinations like Grenada and St. Kitts. This trend appears to target a growing segment of travelers who are looking for a more unique, less crowded experience outside of the conventional Caribbean hotspots.

Travel data also reveals that midweek flights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are often significantly less expensive than weekend travel. This pattern indicates that airline pricing strategies may be attempting to incentivize travelers to fly during less popular days. Airlines often announce sales on Mondays, generating more competition on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and lower fares overall.

There's also an intriguing strategy of waiting until the last minute to book flights. Travel data suggests that approximately 30% of travelers can secure major discounts (up to 50% off) by booking flights within 2 weeks of their intended departure. This is based on airlines trying to sell remaining seats on flights to fill capacity.

Airlines have very different luggage policies that can impact the cost of a trip. Some allow one free checked bag while others charge for every piece of checked luggage, highlighting the need for careful planning to avoid any surprises at the airport.

Some Caribbean airports, like Punta Cana, are located in close proximity to multiple resorts, resulting in remarkably short transfer times – even under 20 minutes in some instances. This proximity offers a considerable benefit for travelers, minimizing overall travel time and seamlessly connecting them to the vacation experience.

Current travel data suggests that family travel to the Caribbean is a growing trend. A considerable portion of families with children, roughly 60%, prefer all-inclusive resorts. Consequently, resorts are adapting by offering more family-friendly activities and services, shifting the landscape of the Caribbean tourism industry towards enhanced experiences for families.

In conclusion, while the Caribbean offers a wide range of destinations and resort options, it's evident that factors like flight availability, price variability, airline loyalty programs, and tourism trends heavily influence the overall travel experience. The careful consideration of these elements, alongside the evaluation of resort amenities and location, becomes vital for a successful and budget-friendly Caribbean vacation.

7 Key Factors for Choosing Between Caribbean Beach Resorts - A Data-Driven Analysis - Beach Quality Analysis Sand Type and Water Clarity Data from 50 Popular Caribbean Beaches

When selecting a Caribbean beach resort, the quality of the sand and the clarity of the water are often overlooked but are very important. A study of 50 popular beaches across the Caribbean found a strong link between the type of sand, from fine to coarse, and the overall appeal and health aspects of the beach experience. For example, finer sands are generally considered more desirable for recreational activities. Interestingly, the water clarity, a significant aspect for most beachgoers, has a strong correlation to the quality of the sand. Research indicates that cleaner, healthier sand often translates into clearer, better water quality. This connection highlights the importance of examining sand and water conditions when deciding upon a resort. The aesthetic appeal of the beach, combined with safety considerations, becomes critical factors to consider alongside amenities, cost, and location when planning your next trip.

Beach quality, particularly the type of sand and water clarity, plays a significant role in shaping the appeal and experience of Caribbean destinations. Understanding these aspects offers valuable insights into the dynamics of beach environments and the factors that contribute to visitor satisfaction.

The composition of sand on Caribbean beaches displays considerable diversity. For example, beaches in the Bahamas often boast sand primarily composed of calcium carbonate derived from coral and shells, whereas other areas feature volcanic ash or sand rich in quartz. This variation impacts the texture and visual appearance of the beaches, influencing how visitors perceive them.

Water clarity, often measured using Secchi disks, varies across the region. Some locations, such as certain areas near St. John in the US Virgin Islands, have recorded average clarity readings of over 25 meters, showcasing exceptionally pristine waters. However, the clarity can change, as research suggests that cooler months generally result in improved water visibility due to a decrease in rainfall and associated runoff that often clouds the water.

Human activities, such as dredging for infrastructure projects, can have noticeable negative effects on water clarity. The sediment released during such operations can spread and decrease visibility, a significant concern in areas where tourism and infrastructure development intersect.

Interestingly, recent research has unveiled the presence of microplastics in sand samples from several popular Caribbean beaches. This poses an environmental issue and could influence visitor perceptions of beach cleanliness, raising concerns about the long-term health of these ecosystems.

The distinctive colors found in Caribbean sands often correlate with the underlying geological features. The famous pink sand beaches of Harbour Island, for instance, owe their unique hue to the presence of foraminifera, tiny marine creatures whose shells contribute to the sand's coloration.

Even within a single island, the quality of the sand and water can vary substantially. Some stretches might provide calm, shallow waters, ideal for families, while others may experience stronger wave activity, impacting both sand texture and water visibility. This localized variability highlights the importance of considering specific beach characteristics when choosing a destination.

Beaches with higher ratings for sand quality and water clarity typically attract a greater number of tourists, generating considerable economic activity for the local communities and impacting resort development decisions. This link between beach quality and tourism highlights the economic importance of preserving pristine beach environments.

Weather patterns can significantly impact beach quality. Hurricanes, for example, can lead to substantial shifts in coastal formations, exposing new types of sand and temporarily affecting water visibility. The aftermath of a storm can drastically alter the landscape and create a different experience.

Finally, the clarity of the water directly influences the health of surrounding marine ecosystems. Clearer waters allow sunlight to penetrate more effectively, promoting the growth of underwater vegetation, which supports local fish populations and provides valuable benefits to the regional tourism economies.

Understanding these diverse factors related to sand type and water quality provides a more comprehensive perspective on beach ecosystems in the Caribbean. This information is crucial not just for visitors seeking the ideal beach experience but also for tourism managers and policymakers responsible for maintaining these vital ecosystems.

7 Key Factors for Choosing Between Caribbean Beach Resorts - A Data-Driven Analysis - Staff to Guest Ratios and Service Standards Comparison Across Resort Categories

When evaluating Caribbean beach resorts, understanding the relationship between staff and guests, along with the overall service standards, becomes crucial. The ratio of staff to guests varies considerably across different resort categories, with higher-end resorts often employing a larger staff relative to the number of guests. This typically leads to a more personalized and attentive experience for guests. The quality of service is closely tied to various factors, including the training and availability of staff, as well as their responsiveness to guest requests. These elements collectively influence overall guest satisfaction. However, it's worth noting that luxury resorts sometimes face a larger gap in service consistency compared to independent, stand-alone hotels. This highlights potential areas where luxury resorts could improve their service standards. By understanding these nuances, travelers can align their expectations with the type of resort and ultimately enhance their Caribbean vacation.

When exploring the realm of Caribbean beach resorts, a fascinating aspect to examine is how the number of staff members relates to the number of guests and how this impacts service quality across different resort categories. It's interesting to observe how luxury resorts, with their focus on personalized experiences, often maintain significantly lower guest counts relative to staff. This might mean a staff-to-guest ratio as low as 1:2, translating to a high level of attention for each individual visitor. In contrast, budget-oriented resorts might operate with ratios closer to 1:10, requiring them to carefully balance providing a reasonable service level with keeping costs down for the guest.

The link between staff-to-guest ratios and guest satisfaction is quite evident. Studies show a strong connection, with higher ratios generally corresponding to improved satisfaction scores. This makes intuitive sense: more staff means more individuals available to address guest needs and create a positive overall experience, possibly leading to increased repeat business and improved resort reputation.

The delivery of service across resorts is also a varied landscape. All-inclusive resorts often take a more uniform approach to service provision across their properties, resulting in a predictable guest experience. Boutique or smaller resorts, on the other hand, often adapt their offerings to each guest's preferences.

Beyond operational metrics, cultural elements weave themselves into the service standards of many resorts. In culturally rich areas like the Dominican Republic, for instance, hospitality training frequently incorporates regional traditions, leading to service styles that resonate deeply with visitors.

Interestingly, even with a higher staff count, some resorts leverage technology to enhance their efficiency. Mobile check-in, digital concierge services, and other forms of technological integration can streamline processes and optimize the guest experience. This may help reduce the need for a drastically larger workforce or at least reimagine the type of staff needed.

From a financial perspective, resorts maintaining higher staff-to-guest ratios tend to command premium pricing. This implies that guests are willing to pay more when they perceive that the resort provides a more tailored and exceptional level of personalized service. This pricing dynamic speaks to the power of high-quality service as a differentiator and valuable asset.

The need for staff can fluctuate depending on the time of year. During peak travel periods, resorts often employ temporary workers, resulting in a temporary spike in the available workforce. This reflects the increased demand for service during these busier periods and underscores the seasonal nature of Caribbean tourism.

To keep track of their performance, some resorts utilize real-time feedback technologies that capture guest sentiment instantly. This allows them to identify issues as they arise and adapt service delivery accordingly. Such mechanisms are invaluable in a quest for high service standards in an environment that can shift rapidly.

Comparing resorts in the Caribbean to those in other regions offers fascinating insights. Caribbean resorts in all-inclusive settings tend to have a heavier emphasis on a high ratio of service personnel than luxury resorts found in other places such as the Maldives or Hawaii.

It's worth acknowledging that some resorts, as a response to new safety and sanitation measures implemented following past industry challenges, have enhanced their focus on health and safety protocols. This, in turn, has impacted the typical staff-to-guest ratio, as the overall number of guests might be less, while staffing for health and safety roles increased. This emphasizes that the interplay between staff and guests is not simply about numbers but also about the kind of experiences a resort wishes to offer its visitors.

The study of staffing trends, service standards, and their intersection with guest experiences provides a revealing lens into the varied facets of Caribbean beach resorts. Understanding the motivations behind these elements sheds light on the complex web of factors that shape resort dynamics and, ultimately, the overall quality of the traveler's experience.

7 Key Factors for Choosing Between Caribbean Beach Resorts - A Data-Driven Analysis - Local Transportation Access and Costs from Airport to Resort Areas

Getting to your chosen Caribbean beach resort involves considering how you'll travel from the airport and the associated costs. While many resorts are situated near airports, resulting in quick transfers, the local transportation options and their prices can vary greatly, influencing your trip's overall cost.

In some destinations, like Cancun, affordable shuttle services are widely available to whisk you to your chosen resort. This shared ride option is often a very practical and economical choice. Other areas, such as Orlando, feature extensive transportation networks that can be beneficial. For instance, you might find convenient options like bus services and gondola systems that make it easier to reach various points within the resort area.

It's important to consider potential expenses like toll fees and transportation surcharges that might not be obvious at first. The presence or absence of a well-developed public transport network will influence your overall transportation costs.

Ultimately, understanding the specific transportation options in the destination you are considering, as well as any associated costs, is a vital element of crafting a stress-free and affordable Caribbean vacation. Failing to account for transport costs upfront might negatively impact your overall budget.

Local transportation to and from resort areas in the Caribbean presents a fascinating study in balancing convenience and cost. The journey from the airport to your chosen haven can dramatically impact the overall vacation experience, and understanding the available options is crucial.

Airport transfers can vary significantly in price, ranging from very affordable to surprisingly expensive. For instance, in Punta Cana, shared shuttle services can be found for under $15 per person, while a private transfer might cost upwards of $70. These differences underscore the impact of the chosen method of transportation on the trip budget.

Shared shuttles can be a smart way to save money compared to private transport. Analysis shows that travelers can save around half their transport costs simply by using these services, with minimal added travel time. This is an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers, particularly for those looking to minimize transportation expenses.

Travel time from the airport to your chosen resort can depend strongly on the particular location and overall traffic conditions. Destinations like Cancun, a major tourist hub, showcase a wide range of travel times, from a quick 20-minute journey to as much as an hour or more during busy periods. This variation can greatly impact how travelers perceive their vacation time, impacting overall satisfaction.

Ride-sharing platforms, like Uber or Lyft, offer a possible alternative to more traditional taxis in some locations. In certain Caribbean areas, they might be as much as 30% less expensive than conventional taxis, presenting a viable savings opportunity for savvy travelers.

Pre-arranged transfers can be a useful way to ensure a smooth and predictable arrival at the resort. Data suggests that pre-booking transport lowers waiting times at the airport and provides a predictable cost. This is particularly beneficial during peak seasons when demand is high and prices tend to be more volatile.

The frequency of airport shuttles varies by destination, with some locations, like Jamaica, significantly increasing the frequency of service due to growing tourism. This increased availability of transport services allows for more flexibility in arrivals and departures, leading to shorter wait times and a potentially smoother transition into vacation mode.

The baggage policies of airport transfer services play a role in shaping traveler decisions. Some providers may charge significantly for extra luggage – think $25 to $75 per checked bag. Travelers with a lot of baggage might need to consider this additional expense when choosing the most cost-effective transport option.

It's no surprise that faster transfers contribute to greater guest satisfaction. Research indicates a clear link between quick airport transfers and a more positive initial experience. This points to the importance of airport transfer time as a potential factor impacting resort choices.

Many all-inclusive resorts offer complimentary transfers to and from the airport as part of their vacation packages. This can be a significant advantage for families or groups, as it eliminates transport costs and reduces overall trip expenditures.

Similar to airfare, transfer prices are dynamic and influenced by demand. The price of a transfer can increase dramatically during busy travel periods, mirroring airline 'surge pricing' practices. Therefore, planning arrivals for less busy periods can lead to significant savings.

Understanding the complex web of factors surrounding airport transfers and resort accessibility is vital for travelers seeking the best experience. From evaluating costs and time to recognizing the flexibility offered by different transportation methods, this area deserves careful planning as part of a successful Caribbean vacation.

7 Key Factors for Choosing Between Caribbean Beach Resorts - A Data-Driven Analysis - Restaurant Variety and Food Quality Metrics from Guest Satisfaction Surveys

When deciding on a Caribbean beach resort, the diversity of dining options and the quality of the food served play a substantial role in shaping guest satisfaction. Guests remember and appreciate high-quality ingredients and the skill used to prepare the dishes. Resorts that offer a variety of restaurant choices cater to a broader range of preferences and create a more fulfilling experience overall. Furthermore, resorts can benefit from actively seeking guest feedback, often via satisfaction surveys, which can highlight both strengths and areas for improvement in their food offerings. Therefore, it's wise for vacationers to carefully consider the culinary choices available at a resort as part of their overall decision-making process, as these elements can significantly impact the enjoyment of their trip.

### Restaurant Variety and Food Quality Metrics from Guest Satisfaction Surveys

The quality of food and the variety of dining options are fundamental components influencing guest satisfaction, particularly within the context of Caribbean beach resorts. It appears that a wider range of restaurant styles and cuisines can significantly impact how guests perceive the overall quality of their stay.

Maintaining high food quality hinges on a few key factors: sourcing high-quality ingredients, implementing regular supplier audits, and investing in comprehensive training for kitchen staff. Controlling food temperatures throughout preparation, storage, and service is crucial for ensuring not only quality but also food safety.

Guest feedback is incredibly valuable and can be efficiently captured through properly designed surveys. These surveys, ideally kept concise (5-10 minutes) and utilizing a blend of question types, offer a powerful way to gain insights into customer sentiment. Clear and straightforward survey questions, avoiding confusing jargon or leading language, help elicit genuine and unbiased responses from guests.

Factors that consistently contribute to guest satisfaction with the dining experience include taste, the quality of service they receive, price perception, and the overall ambiance of the dining environment. Creating a structural model that links the quality of food, the level of service, and the environment can provide valuable insights into how guests perceive the value they are receiving for their money.

The hospitality industry, especially within Caribbean beach resorts, needs to see the importance of restaurant variety as a crucial factor when it comes to measuring guest satisfaction. Tracking metrics like customer satisfaction with specific dishes, service quality, and the overall dining experience can significantly enhance operations and the overall customer journey. By understanding these relationships, businesses can optimize their processes and potentially reduce inefficiencies, ultimately leading to a better and more memorable experience for their guests.

There's clear evidence that a wider selection of restaurant options leads to a greater perceived value for guests. Factors like perceived food quality, service consistency, and pricing also influence guest satisfaction. This suggests that a diversified approach to dining, tailored to the needs and expectations of different types of visitors, could significantly improve both short-term guest experiences and long-term brand loyalty.

7 Key Factors for Choosing Between Caribbean Beach Resorts - A Data-Driven Analysis - Resort Security Statistics and Safety Records in Different Caribbean Regions

Choosing a Caribbean beach resort often involves considering the safety and security of the destination. Different regions within the Caribbean have varying safety records, and understanding these differences is crucial for travelers seeking a worry-free vacation. Some islands, like Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Barbados, and the Cayman Islands, consistently rank among the safest, with low crime rates and stable political climates. Destinations like Barbados, with its established tourism infrastructure, offer a sense of security, but tourists are advised to exercise caution, particularly in Bridgetown at night and on less-populated beaches.

St. Barthélemy is considered exceptionally safe, with a remarkably low crime rate. However, it's important to note that safety levels can vary across the Caribbean, and while some areas are renowned for their tranquility, others might require a bit more awareness. By understanding the unique security profiles of each region, travelers can make more informed choices and select destinations that best match their comfort levels. Ultimately, having a solid grasp of security statistics helps ensure that your Caribbean vacation remains focused on relaxation and enjoyment.

When evaluating Caribbean resorts, a key consideration is the security environment and safety record of the chosen destination. Several factors contribute to the varying levels of safety across different islands, which can be useful for travelers to understand.

First, the relationship between crime rates and tourism is a complex one. Some islands, like Jamaica, have relatively high murder rates, exceeding 40 per 100,000 people in some years, based on available data. While this might appear alarming, it's important to recognize that tourist areas within resorts often have significantly enhanced security measures compared to local communities.

Second, crime rates vary significantly within each island. A recent analysis revealed that resorts in the Bahamas experienced considerably lower rates of violent crime compared to urban centers like Nassau. This reinforces the idea that a resort's location within a destination is a critical factor to consider.

Third, the perception of safety is a significant driver of travel decisions. Surveys consistently show that most travelers (over 70%) believe the presence of security personnel at resorts enhances their feeling of safety. This suggests that resorts emphasizing security in their marketing materials might attract a larger segment of travelers.

Fourth, the speed at which security personnel respond to emergencies has become a focal point. Some higher-end resorts have implemented advanced security systems allowing them to respond to incidents within 10 minutes on average. The quick response time can significantly impact guest perception of safety and influence choices between different resort options.

Fifth, security staffing levels vary dramatically across resorts. High-end resorts typically employ a high staff-to-guest ratio for security, with some reporting ratios as low as 1:5, whereas budget options may have a more generalized approach to security and a lower staff-to-guest ratio.

Sixth, crime prevention is increasingly sophisticated. Many resorts employ extensive surveillance systems covering the majority (over 90%) of the resort's area. These systems often include elements like motion sensors and night vision cameras, deterring criminal activity and offering guests reassurance.

Seventh, reporting rates for minor incidents can provide insight into the effectiveness of security measures. Research suggests that the frequency of minor incidents, like theft, at many resorts is surprisingly low (around 5%), contrasting with the crime rates in the surrounding areas. This difference points to the success of security measures within these resorts.

Eighth, enhanced health and safety measures, a reaction to past industry challenges, have improved guest safety perceptions. Contactless check-in systems and more rigorous sanitization procedures are becoming standard at many properties.

Ninth, the increasing popularity of travel insurance with security coverage is a phenomenon linked to safety concerns. Travelers are increasingly opting for insurance that covers security-related emergencies in destinations where there might be increased safety concerns. This insurance trend impacts decisions on where to travel and which resorts to choose.

Tenth, the industry recognizes that safety and security standards can influence a resort's success. Resorts that achieve high safety ratings or receive industry awards tend to demonstrate improved booking rates. This reflects the growing importance that many travelers place on safety and security as a key factor in their travel decisions.

Understanding these different elements helps illustrate the complicated relationship between security, safety, and guest experience within Caribbean resorts. Analyzing these factors can give prospective travelers a more nuanced understanding when planning their next vacation.