There’s a new travel industry trend and it’s called the “mancation.” This new buzzword is building on the success of “girlfriend getaway” marketing.

Seeing how female-focused packages are now a $76 Billion industry, hotels and resorts are now featuring all-male bonding vacation packages including everything from poker and extreme sports to hunting and hiking. Today, it’s estimated that about 20 million American men now go on mancations annually and collectively spend between $10 billion to $12 billion during these excursions.

But don’t envision scenes from The Hangover when you hear “mancation.” These trips aren’t bachelor parties. That being said, Cindy Berre, travel agent with the Mariemont-based Travel Authority, says Vegas is still one of the most popular mancation spots. “Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Las Vegas,” she says with a smile. “What can I say?”

Now, if you and your guy groupies are looking for a lower key golf trip, Berre recommends Kohler, WI to stay and play at The American Club. “Or go south and do the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail,” she adds. “Also, South Beach, Miami has some beautiful courses.”

Other popular mancation trips destinations and packages include:

• Winter paradise trip to Jackson Hole, WY
• Off-Road ATV trip in San Diego
• Snowboarding or skiing in Vail, CO
• Whitewater rafting trip
• Saltwater fishing trip
• Dude Ranch vacation trip
• Guided wild game hunting trip

Berre also recommends heading south of the border. “I always love going to Mexico. From Cincinnati it is very easy and quick to get to,” she says. “The resorts are beautiful, the Mexicans are so nice and friendly and provide excellent service.” And if you book at an all-inclusive, you never have to worry about food or drinks!

If you’re up for a road trip, Berre recommends Blackberry Farm, which is a haven for hikers and fly fishermen. She also suggests Dancing Bear Lodge in Tennessee and Nemacolin Woodlands Resort near Pittsburgh. Closer to home, you have Elk Creek in Owenton, KY, where you can spend the day shooting sporting clays, throw back a few craft beers that afternoon, and spend the night at their rustic lodge.

If you’ll be traveling with family instead of your mantourage, Berre suggests all inclusive resorts in the Mayan Riviera are the Azul Sensatori for families with children. “The Azul Sensatori prides itself on its Fischer Price toy lending program, Kids Club and even gourmet Gerber baby food,” says Berre. “At this resort, there is something for all ages.”

They even have an adult area to stay and play. “Multi generations can go to this resort for a family reunion and have a wonderful, affordable vacation,” Berre explains. “If the family is all adults, the El Dorado Royale is wonderful! It, too, is all inclusive and calls itself ‘gourmet inclusive.’”

Here in the U.S., Club Med has the only all inclusive resort in Sandpiper, Florida. Another favorite is Sandestin, Florida. “You can’t beat those beaches which seem like white powdered sugar,” says Berre. “If you want to stay closer to Cincinnati, get back to nature, try one of the many state parks in Ohio and Kentucky!” Click here to visit the U.S. National Park Service Web site to find a park, activities, events and learn the history and stories behind nearly 400 parks in the system.

Berre also offers these helpful travel tips:

• Use a travel consultant to plan and book your trip. Whether it is an international trip or domestic, your travel professional will save you time and you can be sure you are getting the travel experience you planned. You will get the most value for your travel dollar when you use a travel agent.
• Make a copy of your passport and carry it with you. If you were to lose or have your passport stolen, a photo copy may help facilitate replacing your passport.
• Scan your travel documents and passport to your email. Create a travel folder in your email. You can always access your travel information.
• Pack half or your clothing in your travel companions suitcase and half of there’s in yours. If one of the bags gets delayed or lost, you have some of your belongings.
• Check your travel documents when you receive them to be sure you know your exact departure time.
• Pack light.
• Contact your cell phone provider to be sure you have international calling. This will save you money if you like to text and talk!
• Contact your credit card companies to let them know you will be out of the country.
• Be sure to purchase travel insurance. One never knows when natural disasters, illness or lost luggage can occur! Recently we have had volcanoes, mud slides and earthquakes interrupt travel.
• ATMs are the best way to get cash.
• Arrive extra early to the airport for your flight.