Deeper Dive: What Destinations Should Know About Go-ccasions

One of the travel trends that popped up on the world’s radar in 2024, go-ccasions are still going strong in the tourism industry and show no signs of slowing down any time soon. So, what exactly is a go-ccasion? Think of it as an excuse to travel. Any occasion that calls for a reason to go somewhere. A babymoon, new job, first-date anniversary, half-birthday, even a pet gotcha day. Virtually anything you feel is worthy of a celebratory trip can become a go-ccasion. And they’re happening more and more, especially as America shifts to a more “life is short” post-pandemic type of thinking.

So, where’s everyone going? Although there are exceptions for sure, such as with a destination wedding, for the most part, people really aren’t traveling all that far. Go-ccasions are generally spur-of-the-moment getaways, planned on the fly to a lesser known, yet interesting, very un-far-flung type of place. With go-ccasions, it’s all about the experience and not necessarily spending a ton of cash or even using a passport in the process.

What are go-ccasioners looking for besides a unique destination that’s easy to reach? Stand-out experiences, of course. Adventure tours, “vibey” hotels and accommodations, authentic cuisine and post-worthy scenes showing up on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. We all know the incredible effect social media has on society these days. As a destination, this is even more essential as it can also have a direct effect on the chances that go-cassioners will keep your location in mind when it comes time to decide where to go on their next outing. A travel influencer who can not only catch but keep the interest of your market and immerse them in all the amazing and “different” things to do at and around your destination is a very powerful tool indeed.  

And, of course, it’s a best practice for destinations to stay in tune with the reasons people travel. Special packages that up the ante on “types” of getaways are always a smart move. Think romantic couples retreats complete with champagne, roses and spa services. Anniversary-geared getaways featuring fabulous feasts and live shows. Babymoon escapes that offer relaxing just-for-two ways to enjoy time together before the big day.

And while special-occasion travelers don’t always fit into a certain box if you happen to know your guests are there to honor a pet’s birthday or woo-hooing it up after a divorce, go the extra mile with a small gesture. A voucher to the gift shop or flower arrangement delivered to the room goes a long way. And when it’s time to celebrate Fluffy’s next trip around the sun, chances are you could be seeing them again.

Ready for cutting-edge marketing strategies, dynamic design, ground-breaking creative and up-to-the-minute media trends that make your destination the star of the show? Contact Lynn Kaniper at 609.466.9187 ext. 117 or lkaniper@danacommunications.com, and you’ll be celebrating soon.