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September 11, 2011: Looking Back and Moving Forward

This year’s September 11 is very special for two reasons: it marks the 10th anniversary of 911, and it is the day before the Moon Festival*. 911 has changed everybody’s life forever --- even for those who do not know anyone who lost his/her life in 911 or in wars. After 911, nobody could travel the same way as it used to be.

According to the Chinese tradition, family and friends will get together under the full moon during the Moon Festival. When we enjoy the moon cake and seasonal fruits/snacks, we think about our beloved, including those who are with us and apart from us.

Looking back and moving forward, our presence reflects our past and points to the future. I remember I first came to the U.S. for graduate school in 2001. Back then, nobody talked about boutique hotels, Facebook, Twitter, Groupons, iPhones, iPads, or anything about social media or smart phone trends. Now, they all become the must-know terms in the field.

Looking ahead, this Fox News video reports the online travel trends revealed by Expedia’s President Scott Durchslag. Did 911 change your life? If so, in what way? What impacts has 911 made to the hospitality, travel, and tourism industry? To what directions is the hospitality and travel/tourism industry heading?


 
*Moon Festival takes place on every August 15th according to the Lunar Calendar. Fall is usually soon approaching after the Moon Festival. We call the day before the Moon Festival as “The Day for Welcoming the Moon,” the Moon Festival as “The Day for Admiring the Moon,” and the day after as “The Day for Chasing the Moon.”

Comments

  1. I may be the worlds worst traveler. I get anxiety in airports, I'm never on time, I dont know how to pack lightly, and I've made a habit of getting lost. The terrorist attacks during 9/11 changed my traveling habits for the better and for the worst.

    With the new technology seen at airports to preform security checks, I am now punctual for my travel arrangements. I've gotten to know the flying system of what are more popular traveling days, and what are not. As well as when I can get the best deal to travel to different regions during non-peek traveling season.

    Security check points have trained me to pack less, depending on where I'm going. Why wait for a checked bag when I can carry on?? If I'm carrying on what can I bring?? What do I REALLY NEED, and what can I afford to leave at home?? Can I bring this on board or will it get confiscated?? All of these questions now determine what I pack.

    I think the hospitality, and traveling/tourism industry are going to increase within the next couple years. The economy plays a large factor on traveling, and with the economy recovering, I believe we will see an increase in traveling as well. The combination of Expedia and Groupon will also add to the increase in travel. Now that most families are paying closer attention to their budgets, these deals on cruises and trips will add to in increase in this industry!!

    ReplyDelete

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