European cruises and exotic destinations will be big in 2008.
By AAA National

As 2007 winds down, it’s time to make our travel predictions for 2008. Here are the hot travel spots according to AAA Travel experts.

Italy and cities like Venice will grow in popularity with travelers.

Italy has been one of Europe’s top destinations for the past several years, and its popularity shows no sign of waning. Elsewhere in Europe, France and Spain are also increasingly popular destinations.

More cruisers will be heading to Europe in 2008. Sales of Caribbean cruises were flat last year, while Mediterranean cruises were selling out. And by all accounts, European river cruising is one of the fastest-growing categories in travel. Look for more cruise choices in the Mediterranean–for large and small ships–and more options for European river cruises, including new ships and itineraries, in 2008.

Family travel has come a long way from a week’s vacation at the shore. Parents today are spending more to provide their children with enriching, engaging travel experiences, so next year will see more families in far-off places, from Australia to Africa to the Galapagos Islands.

It’s not just families that are traveling farther afield. The current generation of Americans is the most well-traveled in history, and many have already visited classic destinations like Rome, Paris and London. These travelers are looking for something more, and increasingly, they’re finding it in places like Machu Picchu, Angkor Wat and Petra.

Travel tips for 2008

The global travel industry is thriving, the peak booking months are around the corner and popular cruises, tours and hotels are likely to sell out early. Planning ahead and booking now is the best way to guarantee that you’ll enjoy your desired vacation in 2008.

But don’t forget your own backyard.

Europe may be popular, but given the weak dollar and the crowds, you might consider vacationing in North America next year. The U.S. and Canada are home to some of the finest national parks in the world, and if you haven’t visited them, you’re missing out on some truly amazing experiences.

European river cruises are one of the fastest-growing categories in travel. AAA photos

Wherever you travel to, use a reputable tour operator. An experienced tour operator can be your ticket to the ultimate land or cruise vacation. With Tauck World Discovery, you can sail the Mediterranean on an intimate 60-passenger yacht, discover African wildlife with your children in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, enjoy impossible-to-get accommodations at lodges inside Yellowstone and Yosemite, and even circumvent the longest lines outside the Vatican.

Tauck offers more than 100 land journeys, river and ocean cruises and family adventures in more than 60 countries worldwide. Each delivers exclusive experiences, with the convenience of having all your arrangements handled for you. And traveling with Tauck saves you up to 40 percent off the cost of an identical itinerary, were you to arrange it all yourself. That’s always important, because getting the most for your money is the one travel trend that’s popular every year.

To learn more about a Tauck vacation, contact your AAA Travel professional today.