In the competitive realm of luxury accommodations, Design Hotels has carved out a significant niche since its inception in 1993. The Berlin-based brand has brought together a curated selection of approximately 300 unique hotels, each independently owned and designed with a focus on innovation, art, and local influences. As an affiliation model, Design Hotels operates
Japan, famous for its rich culture, historical landmarks, and stunning natural beauty, has experienced an impressive resurgence in international tourism as it continues to recover from the severe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the arrival of autumn, the once-backward tourist numbers have taken a notable leap forward, significantly surpassing figures from before the pandemic.
In recent years, the landscape of travel has undergone dramatic transformations, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. Beyond conventional cruise options, which often left queer travelers with limited choices, innovative companies like Brand g Vacations have stepped up to provide tailored experiences that embrace the essence of LGBTQ+ culture. My personal journey aboard the World Traveller—an
In the world of cruising, advancement is a constant, and Celebrity Cruises is making waves with its ambitious plans for the future. As it prepares to unveil its final Edge-class ship, the Celebrity Xcel, in November, the company is not just resting on its laurels. Instead, it is delving into the “dreaming stage” for an
Travel can often be an adventure in itself, particularly when it involves connecting multiple flights across different carriers. This was the premise of a recent trip that started at the bustling Southwest Florida Airport, a hub that has earned its stripes as one of the busiest single-runway airports in the United States. With ambitions of
The skiing landscape in the Eastern United States has long been dominated by resorts in Vermont and New Hampshire, drawing enthusiasts away from New York and its surrounding areas. However, a significant shift is underway, led by the Windham Mountain Club in the Catskill Mountains. Under the leadership of Chip Seamans, the club is shaping
Small-ship cruise lines are rapidly gaining popularity due to their unique selling proposition: offering travelers the chance to visit destinations inaccessible to larger vessels. However, an aspect of the experience that often gets overshadowed is the ship itself, which is not merely a means of transportation but a luxurious destination in its own right. This
The travel advisory industry, particularly in the realm of cruise sales, is experiencing significant shifts in both competition and opportunity. Recently, during the Travel Weekly’s CruiseWorld event in Fort Lauderdale, several high-ranking sales executives from various cruise lines shared insights on how travel advisors can enhance their business prospects amidst a “crowded space.” The panel
The cruise industry has faced several challenges in recent years, and Princess Cruises is currently grappling with significant setbacks stemming from technical difficulties aboard its Regal Princess. Most recently, the cruise line has been forced to cancel three consecutive sailings from Galveston due to a malfunctioning power generator. This situation not only raises serious concerns
In the realm of deli meats, few names resonate as strongly as Boar’s Head. Known for its wide array of premium deli products, the brand has carved out a substantial portion of the American market. However, beneath the shiny marketing campaigns and wholesome packaging lies a troubling narrative. Reports from former employees and industry insiders
The conclusion of the recent U.S. elections has set the stage for a new chapter in American politics. As Donald Trump prepares to assume the presidency for a second time, various sectors are left to ponder the implications of his policies on their operations. Among these industries, the American beer market—especially the craft brewing segment—faces
My first encounter with authentic French cuisine took place in a cozy, rustic eatery nestled in the heart of Paris. The atmosphere was enchanting, with wooden boards brimming with food, adorned with artisanal pottery from Provence and complemented by charming woven baskets. This unique dining experience left a lasting impression on my palate and mind.
The travel industry is a dynamic landscape where the ability to adapt and take risks can spell the difference between stagnation and thriving growth. At the recent CruiseWorld conference, Ken Muskat, the managing director of Scenic Group USA, challenged travel advisors to push the boundaries of their comfort zones. The essence of his message was
The recent U.S. presidential election has stirred up a wave of disappointment and frustration among many Americans, prompting them to consider relocating to other countries. The results ignited a significant spike in online searches for terms related to moving abroad, particularly in the wake of Donald Trump’s anticipated return to the White House. Such actions
Amadeus, a leading technology and distribution company, has showcased remarkable financial performance in its third quarter of 2024. Group revenue reached an impressive $1.6 billion, reflecting an 11% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth trajectory highlights Amadeus’s robust operational strategies and its ability to adapt to evolving market demands, which is
The cruise industry is currently experiencing unprecedented growth, with major players such as the Royal Caribbean Group witnessing record-breaking financial performance. However, this surge comes with significant responsibility, as environmental concerns loom large. At a recent CruiseWorld event in Fort Lauderdale, Jason Liberty, the CEO of Royal Caribbean Group and chair of the Cruise Lines
MSC Cruises has recently unveiled an exciting enhancement to its Voyagers Club loyalty program by introducing a new tier called Blue Diamond. This move represents a strategic effort to reward loyal cruisers who engage extensively with the MSC brand. The introduction of Blue Diamond, which guests can achieve after accumulating 25,000 points, significantly raises the
Nearly a year after its maiden voyage, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas has solidified its position as a premier vessel in the cruise industry, achieving remarkable customer satisfaction and commanding high ticket prices. Michael Bayley, CEO of Royal Caribbean International, shared insights during the Royal Caribbean Group Presidents Panel at CruiseWorld concerning the ship’s