Travelers: Looking to escape to warmer destinations? Beaches are calling this February break

By AAA of Western and Central New York

2023 is already proving to be a busy year for travel, and the upcoming school break will be the perfect example, as airports are expected to be very busy. Some travelers are taking a long weekend for the President’s Day holiday while many families are taking advantage of mid-winter break from area school districts to escape for the whole week. With plenty of gray skies and rollercoaster weather across the Western and Central New York region, it’s no surprise that the most popular destinations all feature warm climates!

Here are the top destinations for area travelers based on AAA bookings from Feb. 18-25:

• Orlando
• Caribbean cruising
• Punta Cana
• Cancún

For travelers who are driving to destinations, Florida is the top request for maps and road trip information from AAA Western and Central New York. Next month, those requests are likely to expand to include Myrtle Beach, the Outer Banks, and Hilton Head.

A recent survey of AAA travel agents has uncovered some notable travel trends. AAA travel agents say they’ve noticed an eagerness to travel again, with many people willing to book early and spend more money. Despite concerns over flight delays or trip interruptions, travelers are prioritizing travel opportunities. Some people are booking 18 months to two years in advance. Many travelers are looking to make up for lost time after nearly three years of restrictions.

Top vacation types:

• Ocean cruises
• All-inclusive vacations
• Guided tours
• Family vacations
• Custom independent travel

Travel insurance: 86% of agents say there’s more interest in travel insurance.

AAA travel agents say more people are interested in protecting their trip in the event of an emergency or cancellation. In some cases, travelers are inquiring about travel insurance before agents bring it up.

Traveler concerns: 78% of agents say travelers are concerned about getting stranded by a delayed or canceled flight; and 71% of agents say travelers are concerned about their options for canceling and rebooking if there’s an illness before or during their trip.

AAA agents also say many travelers are worried about lost luggage.

From family vacations to couples retreats to spring break fun here in the U.S. or around the globe, AAA, the foremost authority in travel, is the premier choice for vacations. Learn more at www.AAA.com/Travel.

As upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA Western and Central New York provides more than 862,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.