3 Tourism Trends We’re Tracking At Skift This Week
Every week we post hundreds of stories across various sectors in travel, connecting the dots across various global trends, and in these weekend posts we highlight the stories that tackle these trends.
This one looks at top tourism trends. For all of our trends roundups, go here.
Being Social Media savvy is key: The 20 Trends Destinations Need To Compete For Tourists
Same-Sex tourism spending to reach $200 billion this year: Florida Sees Benefit of Same-Sex Tourism Despite Marriage Ban
Medical tourism is booming in China: Chinese Tourists Spark Growth Of Global Medical Tourism Market
Up Next
Tourism
Rafat’s Video Diary: The Hidden Economic Impact of Visiting Friends and Relatives
Despite being repeat visitors who often stay longer and spend money locally, VFR travelers are rarely targeted by tourism marketing efforts. In an era of hyper-personalization enabled by AI, there's a significant opportunity to better serve the VFR market.
Short-Term Rentals
Dubai’s Short-Term Rental Push Creates ‘Race to The Bottom’
Dubai's ever-growing tourism sector makes STRs look like easy money, but operators warn this is far from true.
Airlines
Skift Aviation Forum Video: Building Resiliency and Efficiency Through Tech Innovation
In this video from Skift Aviation Forum 2024, Ganesh Jayaram, chief digital and information officer of American Airlines, takes the stage to discuss the airline's digital transformation strategy, how it leverages technology to enhance operations, improve customer experiences, and drive innovation in a rapidly evolving industry.
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Airlines
India is The Next Big Focus For Abu Dhabi’s Etihad
India wasn't on the list of Etihad's new route launch, but the UAE carrier emphasized that the country remains a major focus for its future plans.
Tourism
China Extends Visa-Free Entry to 9 More Countries, Doubles Stay Limit to 30 Days
China’s visa-free push could nudge other nations to loosen up their own rules, but it’s not all smooth sailing — geopolitical tensions and regional competition loom large. For now, China’s message is loud and clear: the doors are open and the welcome is warmer than ever.