We're living in uncertain times due to the pandemic, and that means more flexible especially when we travel.
One change that may be permanent is that people are more open to unconventional travel opportunities -- as well as challenges -- when they book their vacations.
Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky explained at Skift Global Forum 2021 that before the pandemic, working, living and traveling had to be three separate activities. But with remote work now more accepted, it can be one and the same.
"This revolution really is about flexibility," Chesky said. "Suddenly, you can live anywhere, you can work anywhere."
It also means travelers are moving from being strict and rigid to being more malleable. A recent Expedia survey showed that half of global travel searches this summer were for 21 days or less. Airlines are also more open to giving refunds with cancellations, even for the cheapest tickets. Travelers, especially those looking for high-end luxury vacations, are simultaneously planning trips to ensure they go on one, a phenomenon known as "travel stacking."
https://skift.com/2021/09/15/new-research-5-trends-from-travels-2021-summer-surge/
"Flexibility is going to be huge in terms of how travel companies spur demand and then put consumer confidence back," Ali told Cheddar.
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Some small grocery stores and neighborhood convenience stores are eager for the U.S. government shutdown to end and for their customers to start receiving federal food aid again. Late last month, the Trump administration froze funding for the SNAP benefits that about 42 million Americans use to buy groceries. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says about 74% of the assistance was spent last year at superstores like Walmart and supermarkets like Kroger. Around 14% went to smaller stores that are more accessible to SNAP beneficiaries. A former director of the United Nations World Food Program says SNAP is not only a social safety net for families but a local economic engine that supports neighborhood businesses.