Core Viewpoint - The holiday travel season is expected to boost travel and entertainment spending by 1%, contrasting with a decline in other spending areas, presenting potential investment opportunities in travel stocks [1]. Group 1: Expedia Group - Expedia Group (EXPE) has shown a total return of 129.6% over the last three years, with a year-to-date increase of over 16% and more than 24% in the last three months [2][4]. - The stock is currently trading about 4% above its consensus price target, but bullish price targets of $240 and $250 from Mizuho and BTIG Research suggest further upside potential [3]. - With a forward P/E ratio of around 17x and expected earnings growth of 20% in the next 12 months, the stock is considered undervalued [4]. Group 2: Royal Caribbean - Royal Caribbean (RCL) has delivered a total return of over 765% in the past three years and is up 37% in 2025, driven by strong travel demand and a repaired balance sheet [5][6]. - Despite a recent 12% decline in shares due to profit-taking, analyst sentiment remains bullish with several price targets near or above $400 [6]. - The company has raised its dividend by 25% this year, enhancing its appeal to shareholders as it prepares for the holiday travel season [7]. Group 3: Southwest Airlines - Southwest Airlines (LUV) is projected to experience over 50% earnings growth in the next 12 months, making its forward P/E ratio of 20x noteworthy [9]. - The airline is expected to benefit from rising jet fuel costs and lower interest rates, which may stimulate demand for low-cost domestic travel [10]. - Although LUV stock is down about 3.5% in 2025, upcoming earnings reports and holiday travel demand could present an attractive entry point for investors [11].