For many, the allure of travel is undeniable, yet the painstaking hours spent researching destinations, accommodations, and itineraries can quickly dampen the excitement. Andria Gutierrez, a marketing executive from Lake Tahoe, California, embodies this sentiment perfectly. A passionate traveler, she found herself increasingly overwhelmed by the sheer effort required to plan her getaways. “When I was younger, I planned all my own trips,” Gutierrez recounts. “But now that I own a business, I just don’t have the spare hours anymore.” This common dilemma is precisely why Travel Clubs are experiencing a surge in popularity, offering a curated and convenient solution for discerning travelers.
Gutierrez discovered the benefits of travel clubs firsthand when she joined Allcall, a service specializing in personalized itineraries and member-exclusive deals. Her experience speaks volumes about the appeal of these clubs. Having already embarked on three trips organized by Allcall, including a ski adventure across multiple states and a relaxing vacation in Baja California, Mexico, Gutierrez emphasizes the efficiency and support she received. “The team is incredibly helpful and responsive,” she says. “They make the planning process so efficient.”
While high-end options like Exclusive Resorts and Wheels Up have long catered to a wealthy clientele, a new wave of travel clubs is emerging, driven by evolving traveler priorities. One significant factor is the heightened focus on safety and well-being in the post-pandemic world. Melissa Biggs Bradley, founder of Indagare, a company that specializes in planning and booking trips for its members, notes this shift. “Health has become the paramount concern of our members,” she explains. “We have a ton of information on COVID protocols, and the team takes care of understanding those, even as they change all the time.”
Beyond safety, the desire for unique and enriching experiences is also fueling the travel club trend. Suzy Kellems Dominik, an artist from New York City, had always considered herself an independent traveler. However, the exclusive opportunity to visit Modena, Italy, with renowned chef Massimo Bottura of Osteria Francescana, convinced her to join Prior, a travel club launched in 2019. This exemplifies how travel clubs can unlock doors to extraordinary adventures that might be inaccessible to individual travelers.
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Dinner at a beautifully set table in a Tuscan villa, part of the exclusive experiences offered by travel clubs like Exclusive Resorts.
“What’s so interesting is that they have this access,” Kellems Dominik remarks. “It’s intellectual and emotional travel — the imagination is just endless — and they curated a group of very interesting people who were all like-minded around food.” This sense of community and shared interests is another compelling aspect of many travel clubs.
Interestingly, the appeal of travel clubs extends beyond seasoned travelers and high-net-worth individuals. Industry surveys indicate that approximately half of all millennials are now considering joining some form of travel club, surpassing interest levels from Gen Xers and baby boomers. Even Exclusive Resorts, known for its premium pricing structure with substantial per-day trip fees in addition to membership costs, has witnessed a surge in interest from younger families. In fact, 2020 marked their best December in nine years, a testament to the resilience and growing popularity of travel clubs, even amidst global challenges.
The diverse landscape of travel clubs means there’s likely an option to suit various preferences and budgets. To navigate this landscape, it’s helpful to consider the different types of clubs available.
Luxury and Private Stays with Travel Clubs
For travelers prioritizing opulent accommodations and bespoke experiences, clubs focused on upscale private stays are ideal. Exclusive Resorts stands out with its portfolio of over 400 vacation homes, along with members-only cruises and expeditions. Inspirato offers access to villas in over 180 locations and also arranges exclusive cruises for its members. For a more budget-conscious approach within this category, Koala provides a platform to book one-off stays in timeshares across the globe, offering a taste of luxury at a potentially lower price point.
Community-Focused Travel Clubs
The social aspect of travel is a key draw for many, and certain travel clubs excel at fostering a sense of community among members. El Camino Travel, initially known for small-group trips catering to women, has expanded to include the El Camino Travel Clubhouse. This platform enables members to engage in virtual events and discussions about upcoming trips, creating connections before even embarking on a journey. Manifest, launched in August 2020, operates with chapters in various US cities, emphasizing local community building. Founder Jeff Potter highlights this social dimension: “We create a social aspect, with people getting to know each other outside of just traveling together.”
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Paddleboarders enjoying the Rio Grande river, showcasing the adventurous and community-oriented trips organized by travel clubs like Manifest.
Wellness and Retreat Travel Clubs
For those seeking rejuvenation and well-being on their travels, wellness-focused travel clubs offer specialized experiences. MyLifeWell, a wellness website and app launched in 2020, initially offered virtual fitness classes and wellness products. It has since expanded to connect subscribers with travel advisors who specialize in booking wellness retreats, including options at renowned destinations like Canyon Ranch properties. These clubs cater to the growing demand for travel experiences that prioritize personal health and rejuvenation.
Accessible and Flexible Travel Club Memberships
Historically, the high cost associated with travel clubs has been a barrier for many potential members. However, recognizing the need for more accessible options, some clubs are adapting their models. Prior, in the spring of 2020, lowered its pricing to attract a more diverse membership base. Founder David Prior articulated this shift: “I don’t want a club in the sense of shutting people out.” Similarly, Travel + Leisure Co. launched its own affordable subscription club, promising members preferential rates and insider experiences worldwide. These developments signal a move towards greater inclusivity and flexibility within the travel club sector.
In conclusion, the world of travel clubs offers a spectrum of options designed to cater to diverse travel styles, budgets, and priorities. From exclusive luxury experiences to community-driven adventures and wellness-focused retreats, travel clubs are transforming the way people plan and experience travel. Whether you are seeking to reclaim your valuable time, prioritize safety and well-being, or unlock access to unique and enriching journeys, exploring the possibilities within the realm of travel clubs may be your key to a more seamless and fulfilling travel life.
