"We’re stronger, together": Navigating challenges, celebrating success & looking ahead

As the holiday season unfolds, the team at Pax Global Media wishes to express its thanks, gratitude and warm wishes to its loyal readers and partners.

Looking back on 2023 – and considering where things were in 2022 – it’s amazing how far the travel industry has come.

With the disruptions of COVID now in the rear-view mirror, and as reports of record-breaking sales continue to make headlines, it’s safe to say that the industry’s best days are yet to come.

In a world that thrives on exploration and discovery, it’s you, our community of travel professionals, who have been the architects of unforgettable experiences, rebuilding our industry to the thriving sector it once was.

In speaking with suppliers and travel advisors through the past year, I often hear the same word repeated time and time again: busy. Busy responding to emails, busy serving clients, busy building itineraries. Our industry has never been busier!  

All consumers wanted to do in 2023, it seemed, was travel. And if the feedback we’ve heard is correct, price didn’t always seem to matter. For some travel businesses, it’s been Christmas Day, every day.

That’s not to say that there hasn't been challenges. While 2023 was a booming year for many, travel advisors are still on a road to full recovery as they cope with pandemic-era debt after years of little to no revenue.

Paired with this is the ongoing labour crisis – what good is being busy if there’s no staff to help?

And finally, while the notion to build back better is a noble idea, it’s one that will take time as travel advisors and suppliers continue to work at supporting each other in ways that are fair and equitable.

Our industry is still a work in progress, but as history has shown, we always find a way. If the progress made in 2023 is a sign of what’s possible, then 2024 is definitely a year to look forward to.  

We’ve embarked on an incredible journey together. Let’s stay the course, make smart decisions, be compassionate, and help each other out when the going gets tough. As an industry, we’re stronger, together.

May this holiday season be a time of relaxation, joy, and inspiration to you all.

And on that note, we leave you with a special holiday poem:

In the holiday glow, warm wishes we send,

To readers and partners, steadfast, and true friends.

Subscribers and advertisers, thank you sincerely,

For making our travel tales sparkle so clearly.

In the world of travel, where stories unfold,

Booking trends rise, a future foretold.

Agents, so busy, crafting journeys with care,

In the recovery dance, we see hope in the air.

As we embrace the season, with joy and delight,

Pax Global Media wishes you a holiday bright.

May your travels be merry, your spirits take flight,

In the New Year ahead, may everything be just right.

Sincerely,

Nancy Benetton-Sampath

Vice President, Media / Executive Manager

Pax Global Media

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