As the new year approaches, we asked members of the NTA Faith Travel Advisory Group what they’re most looking forward to in 2022 as it pertains to group travel. Here’s what they had to say:
Connie VanderPoel, Southwest Tour & Travel
swtourandtravel.com
“What I am most excited about for 2022 is that we are resuming travel and will again have the opportunity to share all the splendors this world offers with our friends and family.”
Henrique Abreu, Gemm Travel – Holy Land
gemmtravel.com
“I am looking forward to the return of the pilgrims and visitors to our region (Israel, Jordan, Turkey, and Egypt) through the opening of the borders and softening the number of restrictions. We built our group base for 2021 travel, which did not happen, and now are rebuilding again for 2022, hoping we can welcome back our agents and travelers alike.”
Eddie Lutz, Ark Encounter
arkencounter.com
“2021 saw a great deal of momentum with the return of the leisure travel market. With longer lead times and planning, coupled with uncertainty, the group travel market is seeing a slower recovery. I am optimistic that it will return with a surge in the spring, followed by a strong fall travel season.”
Mete Gurel, TRIPOTOUR
tripotour.com
“I am excited to start our operations again, slowly, by the second half of the year, and feel that the last quarter of the year might be much better. I am very optimistic and hopeful. Also, I am very excited to reconnect with my industry colleagues during our convention.”
Top photo: ©lubero/Adobe Stock
