According to new studies from two blue-chip research sources, Ipsos Mendelsohn and American Express Publishing - the affluent are not only ready to travel -- they are frequently going to spend more on it. While the Ipsos study focused on intent and American Express Publishing on mindset, they both point to a surge in affluents taking to the road (Amex sees an increase of 6 to 8% in spending on all luxury categories). Interestingly, both studies agree on a positive attitude despite lingering concerns about the economy. Here's a look at the highlights of both 2010 studies.

LuxuryTravel 360 has long looked to the affluent as a burgeoning market in business and leisure travel, fueling growth in more affordable, common sense luxury - less glitz and glamour, but ready to pay extra for memorable family experiences and genuine local culture.

• SURPRISE! Demaind for High-End Hotels "Surges" in Third Quarter
• Pessimism Takes A Holiday...
• Hail to the Affluent! Bringing New Life to Luxury Marketing - New Research
• Ring Out The Old, Ring In The New: Regroup, Reinvent, or...POOF!
• Luxury Branders All - Do Not Run for the Exits. Luxury Lives!
• Enter 'The Negotiator in Luxury Land: Change of Game? You Bet!
• Starwood Strategy for Two Brands in 2009? Adjust, Adapt, Advance
• Out WithThe Hermes Shampoo -- In With L'Occitane
• JG Blackbook: A Marketing Model Primed for New Era in Luxury Travel - By Hershel Sarbin
• "Auctioning Luxury" Is Not An Oxymoron