The “Workcation”: Next Big Travel Market Needs Unique CX
The ‘work from anywhere’ phenomenon is well underway. Even before the global pandemic forced 71% of employees to work remotely, technology enabled a growing class of “digital nomads” to essentially work from any location that offers an internet connection. From working in RVs as they roam the U.S. countryside, to working from exotic destinations, like the Caribbean, a new way of remote working has emerged that combines both work and travel. Dubbed the “workcation”, it’s a movement that is gaining popularity, and it’s also a market that itel is uniquely positioned to serve.
Understanding the Digital Nomad
Unlike traditional remote workers, digital nomads tend to vary their work location, choosing to travel while they work remotely. Some travel for years, while others are nomadic for shorter periods, taking “workcations” while they explore a location or country.
Fueled by a passion for travel and new experiences, this segment has only increased since the pandemic. In 2019, there were 5 million digital nomads in America, and since 2020, the numbers have increased by more than 50%. With 19 million Americans reporting that they would like to become a digital nomad in the next 2-3 years, this presents intriguing opportunities for travel and hospitality brands who are looking to capitalize on the “work from anywhere” revolution.
“Workcations” already benefit from a strong social media following, with digital nomads showcasing exotic locations, even their dog-friendly accommodations, through blogs, videos, and Instagram accounts, such as those below, from popular influencers such as @christabellatravels, @wanderingearl, and @workcations.in.
Catering to a Workcation Nation
As studies expect a surge in the number of workers wanting to base themselves in travel destinations, countries such as Aruba and Barbados have begun offering stays of up to 90 days without needing any government documentation or special work permits.
Businesses, such as Airbnb, have already reported a dramatic increase in people using their platform for remote work and long-term stays of 28 days or more are becoming one of their fastest growing rental segments.
itel's ability to serve the unique travel requirements of digital nomads make it an important CX partner for brands eager to capture this market, or those wanting to serve it better. With on-site and work-at-home (WAH) operations around the Caribbean, itel’s agents benefit from a rich history in tourism and travel that is evident in their CX delivery. Plus, the company’s firm grasp of what WAH employees require to be productive, gives itel a leg up in servicing a segment that has similar needs.
Our agents already grasp the "work-from-anywhere" mentality, and our efficient, flexible, and secure, on-site and WAH options will offer new approaches, strategies, and technologies to engage these digital nomads on a more personal and meaningful level.
The question travel brands must ask themselves is, am I ready to cater to this type of traveler? Do I have a CX partner that truly understands the needs of remote workers, and the tourism experiences they seek?
Embracing Work from Anywhere
When COVID untethered thousands of workers from the physical office, it launched a deep desire for new work experiences and environments. 54% of people are now reporting that they want to work from home even after the pandemic ends, and these remote workers could be looking to spend at least part of their working year in a travel destination or even in U.S. cities that offer a lower cost of living.
With the number of digital nomads set to increase, they could become the next great travel segment, generating millions of dollars in tourism revenue. Travel brands would benefit from a CX provider like itel, who can leverage the lessons learned from our own WAH agents, to better serve some of the top requirements of remote workers.
Gain a CX Partner that understands travelers like no other. Contact us today to see what we can do for your travel brand.
