Diversity and the Travel Industry

When I attend travel trade shows I see people from all backgrounds and ethnicities. That diversity continues when traveling to parts of Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean. An industry so inherently diverse, from the perspective of a traveler and as a travel advisor, one would think it would succeed at inclusivity in all forms of travel. But the travel industry has much to learn as it is not immune to racism. The Black Lives Matter Movement has brought conversations to the forefront about white-washed marketing materials and media and the lack of diversity in boardrooms. You hardly see black or brown faces is search results for travel and non-existence in certain brand publications and marketing campaigns. My hope is that there are lessons learned and changes implemented during this resetting period to truly be an inclusive industry. 

I am an avid cruiser and those closest to me knew I was totally bummed to have both my planned 2020 cruises cancelled due to the ongoing Pandemic. What to do now? Where to go? Road trip! ​My happy place is at the beach, so we loaded up the family and headed to the beach. Aww, the sea, sun and sand. 2020 was saved!  But the beach is not everyone's happy place.  A few weeks ago I exchanged text messages with a friend regarding State Parks. It turns out families are not loading up their cars and minivans and headed only to the beach, but to State Parks!