As we move further into 2025, the travel sector is witnessing extraordinary growth, with Travel Leaders Network (TLN) emerging as a triumphant leader in the industry. The consortium has reported a stellar 17% increase in sales for 2024, surpassing all previous records. John Lovell, the president of TLN, confidently forecasts that 2025 will surpass even
Hotels
In the realm of travel, few experiences can rival the allure of a luxury safari, particularly in the majestic landscapes of Kenya. Recently, Christina Jelski, in her engaging podcast series “The Last Resort,” brought forth insights from Anna Gilbert, the innovative mind behind Upannaway. This episode spotlighted Gilbert’s enchanting escapade at Angama’s exclusive safari lodges,
In a significant move to bolster its relationship with travel advisors, Sandals and Beaches Resorts have rolled out the Sandals Elite Advisor (S.E.A.) Program. This innovative loyalty platform, designed for travel professionals, emphasizes the importance of support and rewards in a competitive travel market. By tracking commissionable bookings of three nights or longer, the program
Preferred Hotels & Resorts has recently introduced a groundbreaking portal designed specifically for travel advisors, aimed at streamlining various booking processes and commission management for their impressive collection of over 600 independent hotels. This move represents a significant leap forward in how travel advisors can interface with the hospitality industry, consolidating multiple functions into a
On January 16, 2024, Alex Dixon took the reins as CEO of Resorts World Las Vegas, marking a new chapter for the casino and its parent company, Genting Berhad. Dixon’s appointment comes at a critical juncture following the company’s disappointing quarterly financial report, which cited an exceptionally hot summer and the impact of the presidential
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has made headlines with its announcement to acquire Playa Hotels & Resorts for a significant sum of approximately $2.6 billion. This strategic move marks an essential step in Hyatt’s ambition to broaden its all-inclusive resort offerings, particularly in popular travel destinations across the Caribbean and Mexico. The negotiations, which had been focused
In a significant strategic move within the hospitality sector, SH Hotels & Resorts is poised to rebrand itself as Starwood Hotels this month. This announcement marks a pivotal moment for the company, whose name is synonymous with luxury and innovative travel experiences. Under the stewardship of Barry Sternlicht, chairman, and CEO Raul Leal, the transition
The travel industry has undergone tremendous changes in recent years, driven by technology, consumer behavior, and market demands. Addison Jaynes, founder of Reliant Destinations, exemplifies how these factors can shape a highly successful agency. His experiences in the U.K. and the U.S. have culminated in a focused, innovative approach that reflects both his personal passions
Expedia Group, a titan in the travel and online booking industry, has shown significant growth across its fundamental brands—Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo—in the latter part of 2024. This upward trend aligns with the aspirations laid out by CEO Ariane Gorin upon her appointment in May of the previous year. Her directive to invigorate the Brands
Las Vegas is about to receive a noteworthy upgrade in its entertainment offerings with the opening of the Palm Tree Beach Club at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino this May. As the latest venture in outdoor music and leisure, the club represents a significant evolution in the city’s entertainment landscape. With nearly 60,000 square
New Orleans is a city steeped in a rich tapestry of history and culture, with each street and neighborhood narrating tales that celebrate the contributions of Black artists and the civil rights movement. Among these storied locations is the Dew Drop Inn, a historic site that exemplifies the city’s role as a vibrant hub for
The debate surrounding the naming of North America’s highest peak—a site of immense beauty and cultural significance—has recently ignited once more. Despite President Trump’s executive order to revert the mountain’s name back to Mount McKinley, many Alaskans, particularly Indigenous communities, stand firm in their preference for the name Denali. This decision not only aims to
For those yearning for a tranquil escape from the well-trodden paths of Santorini and Milos, this spring heralds the much-anticipated debut of Gundari, an exquisite 30-room luxury boutique hotel situated on the serene island of Folegandros. Famous for its rugged beauty, Folegandros is now set to elevate its hospitality offerings with Gundari, which proudly claims
The Latin Quarter of Paris, a neighborhood steeped in history, culture, and artistry, has long captured the hearts of both locals and tourists. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, whimsical streets, and exceptional culinary offerings, this locale resonates with an air of intellectualism and creativity. While the neighborhood may not have the ostentation of Paris’s more
London is a city renowned for its historical leverage combined with modern comforts, making it a preferred destination for families from around the world. A stay at The Athenaeum Hotel and Residences encapsulates this perfect intersection of luxury and warmth. My family’s first visit was particularly memorable as we opted for one of the apartment-style
In a recent earnings call, Hilton’s CEO Christopher Nassetta conveyed an optimistic perspective regarding the future trajectory of both the company and the broader U.S. economy. As he addressed investors, Nassetta emphasized an improved outlook for 2025 compared to a previous quarter marked by political uncertainty and noise surrounding electoral outcomes. His assertion that Hilton’s
As we move through 2024, the luxury travel market is grappling with significant changes that could reshape the landscape of high-endgetaways. Prices for luxury accommodations and cruises are showing signs of strain, according to industry experts. In a recent address at the SmartFlyer Core conference, Clayton Reid, an eminent figure in travel marketing, offered insights
Disney has long been synonymous with magic and seamless experiences, yet recent developments in its theme park operations reveal a more conservative approach as the company navigates the complexities of its Lightning Lane Premier Pass. This premium offering allows guests to access expedited entry to attractions but emphasizes a slow and careful deployment strategy, prompting