The president and CEO of Hyatt Hotels Corp., Mark Hoplamazian, expressed his optimism regarding the business travel sector during the company’s recent earnings call. Hoplamazian highlighted the impressive 6% year-over-year increase in systemwide first-quarter revenue from business-travel stays, with some segments experiencing even higher growth rates. He emphasized the strength of global business travel revenue,
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The resurgence of international visitors in the United States after a challenging four years has sparked optimism among destination marketers. However, this revival appears to be fragmented, with certain regions benefiting more than others. The U.S. Travel Association’s annual IPW conference highlighted that overall international travel to the U.S. is projected to reach 98% of
Forget Paris or Venice, the United States is full of romantic getaways that offer unique experiences and breathtaking scenery. One such gem is Statesville, North Carolina, located just a short drive from Charlotte. This charming town is often considered the South’s best kept secret, with its quiet and comfortable luxury that allows couples to relax
Huy Fong Foods, famous for its iconic rooster-labeled sriracha, has recently announced a temporary halt in production due to supplier issues, demonstrating the importance of strong partnerships in the business world. This isn’t the first time that Huy Fong has faced challenges with suppliers, dating back to 2017 when they severed ties with their longtime
The aftermath of Choice Hotel International’s unsuccessful attempt at a hostile takeover of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is still resonating within the industry. During the recent earnings call, Choice CEO Patrick Pacious addressed the lingering question of whether they would consider revisiting the merger in the future. While he didn’t outright reject the idea, he
In a recent panel discussion at the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Global Conference 2024, travel advisors discussed the shifting trends in luxury travel. One key point that emerged from the discussion was the fact that high hotel rates are becoming a concern for travelers. Silvio Rebmann, CEO of Cube Travel, noted that there is a
The position taken by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is crystal clear: travel agencies should not be held responsible for air ticket refunds if they do not have the necessary funds. Unfortunately, the Department of Transportation (DOT) recently finalized regulations in late April that expand the circumstances in which air passengers are entitled
The landscape of all-inclusive resorts has transformed significantly in recent years as a response to the shift in traveler preferences. No longer associated with bottom-shelf booze and mediocre dining options, the sector has undergone a significant upgrade towards more luxury offerings. The demand for all-inclusive resorts, especially in the wake of the pandemic, has surged
While many spirits like whiskey, tequila, and gin often take the spotlight, vodka remains the world’s most popular spirit. However, it has often been overlooked due to the influx of low-quality and flavored vodkas in the market. Many drinkers perceive vodka as a flavorless spirit meant for mixing into cocktails. This misconception overlooks vodka’s long
The U.S. Travel Association is raising alarms about a proposed amendment that could restrict the use of biometric facial recognition technology in airports. Senators Jeff Merkley and John Kennedy have introduced an amendment to the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill that has the potential to cause significant travel delays. According to the association, if this
JetBlue is set to introduce its business class Mint cabin to three new destinations this summer and fall. The airline will be offering year-round Mint service between New York and Vancouver, as well as between New York JFK and San Juan. Additionally, lie-flat cabins will be added seasonally on flights from Boston and New York
Southwest Airlines has recently been ranked as having the highest economy class customer satisfaction among North American airlines in J.D. Power’s 2024 North America Airlines Satisfaction Study. This study also found that Delta Airlines took the top spot in both the first/business class and premium economy categories. According to Michael Taylor, J.D. Power’s senior managing
Seabourn, a luxury cruise line, has recently made a significant decision to name the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners as godparents of their expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit. This bold move not only acknowledges the rich indigenous culture of Australia but also serves as a symbol of respect and stewardship towards the environment and the communities that
The International Brewing Awards, established in 1886, are the oldest beer competition in the world. In 2013, the International Cider Awards were added to honor the best ciders as well. What sets these awards apart is the fact that judging is done solely by working professionals in the brewing and cider making industries. The panel
Emirates airline, one of Boeing’s biggest customers, recently expressed frustration with the safety crisis facing the American planemaker. The chairman and CEO of Emirates, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, voiced concerns over the delays in order deliveries and the overall situation with Boeing. Despite being Boeing’s largest customer in terms of widebody jets with
The cruise industry is experiencing a shift in booking trends that is reshaping the landscape of summer sailings. With cruisers facing limited availability and record-high inventory levels, the usual last-minute bookings are becoming a thing of the past. Industry insiders, such as cruise line executives and travel advisors, are witnessing a surge in demand that
In the wake of the Covid era, consumers have become increasingly comfortable with online shopping, a trend that has extended to the cruise industry. The ease and convenience of online sales and DIY bookings have contributed to a significant surge in direct sales during this pandemic era. As someone who has personally seen the influx
In recent years, Mezcal, tequila’s more complex and artisanal cousin, has experienced a meteoric rise in popularity. Once a rare and elusive spirit, Mezcal can now be found on the shelves of some of the world’s most prestigious bars and in the collections of spirits enthusiasts everywhere. This surge in demand has turned Mezcal into
