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The latest holiday trends from the US will be revealed at World Travel Market today – but beware, it might mean holidaying with your granny.

Cheryl Hudak, chief executive of the American Society of Travel Agents, will reveal how heading off on holiday with your extended family is now the hot subject across the pond.

“This multi-generational travel is becoming really popular in the US,” said Hudak. “It used to be the case that people would go to visit granny and grandpa for a few days; now they are taking them away to share experiences.”

Hudak said US travellers had tightened family ties since the terrorist attacks of September 11 2001, and as a result tour operators were catering for larger family groups.

“Cruiselines especially are doing this. Cruises offer the opportunity for family members to do different activities during the day but come together for dinner. They even videotape the families so they have a record of their holidays.”

Hudak said the US was also experiencing a boom in group travel, with friends – especially those aged 40-plus – going away together.“For women, the breaks tend to be centred on shopping or pampering, and for men it is sports. But there are a whole range of niches that attract groups.”

• Cheryl Hudak’s session ‘It’s All in the Family – Cashing in on Multi-generational and Friendship Travel Packaging’ takes place today in the North Gallery, Room 8, Level 2, from 4.30pm.
• More from World Travel Market 2007

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