Black Friday, once a single day of frenzied shopping after Thanksgiving, has transformed into an expansive booking season for travelers. As the holiday season approaches, brands are eager to roll out their deals earlier than ever, leading to what some are calling an entire booking season rather than just one day. This shift is reflected
Hotels
In a significant stride towards increased presence in Africa, Minor Hotels is set to inaugurate the Anantara Stanley & Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel on December 1. This opening not only marks a thrilling debut in Zimbabwe but also enhances Minor Hotels’ portfolio to seven Anantara properties across the African continent and Indian Ocean islands. The
The landscape of travel across Europe is facing a significant shift as Spain implements a controversial new regulation requiring travel agencies, hotels, and car rental companies to share extensive personal data of travelers with the Ministry of the Interior. The European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Associations (ECTAA) have raised concerns about the implications of
The Walt Disney Company has long been synonymous with innovation and reinvention, and the latest decision to close Muppet Vision 3D at Disney’s Hollywood Studios epitomizes this ethos. As part of a strategic overhaul aimed at enhancing guest experiences, Disney is replacing the beloved Muppet attraction with a new land themed around the globally popular
Located in the stunning Riviera Maya, Hotel Xcaret Mexico stands out as a premier vacation destination for families. With its combination of vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and a wide array of activities catered to every family member, this resort frequently claims the top spot in recommendations. Its appeal largely comes from the access it provides
Universal Orlando Resort has taken a monumental step in expanding its magical offerings with the announcement of *Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry*, an exciting new attraction set to be a highlight of the forthcoming Epic Universe theme park. Slated for an opening date on May 22, 2025, this highly anticipated experience promises
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, Americans are poised to embark on one of the busiest travel seasons in recent memory. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), approximately 79.9 million individuals are projected to travel at least 50 miles from their homes between November 26 and December 2. This marks a notable increase of 1.7
As the holiday season approaches, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is set to transform into a winter wonderland with the grand opening of its Oasis Ice Rink and accompanying holiday village on November 27. This enchanting attraction promises to offer visitors an immersive winter experience, right in the heart of Las Vegas, featuring not one, but two
Arthur Frommer, the renowned figure who transformed the landscape of travel literature, passed away on November 18 at the age of 95 due to complications from pneumonia. His daughter, Pauline Frommer, announced his death, marking the end of an era characterized by a profound impact on how people explore the world. Frommer’s contributions spanned decades
The Cuban tourism sector is enduring a challenging chapter, marked by a confluence of natural disasters, deteriorating infrastructure, and political complexities. Once a burgeoning gem in the Caribbean tourism market, highlighted by a peak during the Obama administration, Cuba now faces an uphill battle as it strives to recover and attract visitors amid a myriad
The political landscape in Washington D.C. is undergoing a transformation following the re-election of President Donald Trump. With fresh nominations for Cabinet positions and new leadership emerging on Capitol Hill, there’s much speculation around how this administration will impact various sectors, including travel. The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) remains steadfast in its mission
In the hospitality sector, the emergence of resort fees has ignited a significant outcry from both consumers and industry professionals. Unite Here, a prominent hospitality union, has launched a campaign dubbed “Resort Fee Ripoff,” highlighting how these seemingly innocuous fees can lead to unexpected costs for travelers. Designed to empower consumers and travel advisors, the
In an age where convenience and efficiency dictate the performance of various industries, Sabre has stepped up with its latest offering: the Sabre Red Launchpad. This cutting-edge booking platform is specifically tailored to meet the needs of new travel advisors and has recently become available to travel agencies worldwide. In collaboration with Internova Travel Group—ranked
On November 1, 2023, Melia Hotels International proudly unveiled the ME Malta, an exquisite addition to the Mediterranean hospitality scene. Nestled in the picturesque seaside town of St. Julian’s, this five-star establishment boasts a striking design by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Part of the ambitious Mercury Towers project, the hotel not only emphasizes architectural
The hospitality landscape is perpetually evolving, but one brand that has recently caught the spotlight is Viceroy Hotels & Resorts. After a decade of relatively low visibility in the luxury sector, the brand is experiencing resurgence following its acquisition by Highgate in early 2023. The subsequent announcement of a comprehensive relaunch marks a significant new
The SLS Hotels & Residences has made a noteworthy entry into the all-inclusive resort market with the launch of SLS Playa Mujeres, strategically located just 15 miles north of Cancun International Airport. Nestled within a gated community, this 498-room resort redefines luxury accommodations with a diverse range of offerings tailored to meet the needs of
In a strategic move aimed at penetrating the competitive landscape of North American hospitality, Corinthia Hotels, a luxury group based in London, has opened its first property in the U.S. This landmark initiative marks a significant chapter for the brand, known for its opulent offerings across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With the meticulous
In an era where consumer expectations continuously evolve, the hospitality industry must adapt to maintain relevance. Design Hotels, founded in 1993, exemplifies this adaptability through its innovative affiliation model. Rather than adhering to a conventional franchise approach, Design Hotels operates as a plug-and-play brand, allowing independently owned properties to benefit from the brand’s vast resources