Trends: Traveling the world – from home

DENVER (June 23, 2020)  - It's no secret that the current health challenge has meant trips postponed and plans deferred. Here's the silver lining: More time at home has meant more time to dream about travel, with many Coloradans already looking ahead to their next great trip. Today, AAA Colorado announced it's here to help in a brand new way: virtual travel events allowing Coloradans to explore the world alongside travel experts – all from the comfort of their homes. 

"We know two things for certain: Travel is coming back, and planning a future trip gives people something to look forward to – which everybody could use right now," said AAA Colorado spokesman Skyler McKinley. "The research is clear: The anticipatory period prior to travel is actually the most exciting time for travelers, and now's the perfect time to begin to plan and dream." 

These virtual travel events are hosted by AAA's in-house experts, together with travel vendors. They'll feature firsthand insights about the world's most exciting destinations, including rich photo and video content, and attendees are encouraged to ask questions as they build their next great vacation – no matter when they plan to travel. 

Events are scheduled for now through mid-July, with more on the way. Coloradans can find a list of all upcoming presentations at AAA.com/Travel under the "AAA Travel Events" header. Registration is free and open to the public. 

Upcoming events include: 

• River Cruising – Why It's the Hottest Travel Trend. Join AAA Travel Vice President Joe Maloney for a free webinar event and discover more about the majestic experiences of the most popular river cruises of Europe and North America. You will also learn about early booking discounts for 2021 & 2022 travel! Joe brings 30+ years of experience. He has worked in all 7 continents and traveled professionally in over 50 countries. Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at 10am.
   
• AAA Colorado Travel’s Down Under Trilogy – New Zealand, Land of the Long White Cloud. Blessed with incredible scenic splendor, New Zealand is a conglomerate of all the best pieces of the world rolled into these heaven-sent islands. Everything from the fjords of Norway to the rolling hills of Scotland, this is where the world comes to play. The people of New Zealand, or Kiwis as they like to be called, are so warm and welcoming. As too is wonderful Maori culture that is tightly interwoven into every day New Zealand life. Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 2pm.
   
• Virtual African Safari Experience – Explore Southern and East Africa. Africa has it all! From Big Five safari experiences, spectacular scenery, diverse cultural experiences, and breathtaking beaches, Africa is a world in one continent. Join our experts on a virtual vacation through the diverse landscapes of Southern and East Africa to learn more about what to expect on your own African dream trip. Thursday, July 9, 2020 at 3pm. 
   

“AAA's been happy to lend a helping hand since this health challenge started, just as we've always done," McKinley said. "Whether you're planning your next great adventure or looking to see the world while you're staying safe at home, we're honored whenever and however folks choose to travel with a name they trust."