Domestic Visitors in the Overtourism Equation and 5 Other Tourism Trends This Week

Throughout the week we post dozens of original stories, connecting the dots across the travel industry, and every weekend we sum it all up. This weekend roundup examines tourism.

For all of our weekend roundups, go here.

>>Tourism, along with business travel, is on the rise again in the UK due to a weak British pound and cheap flights. VisitBritain is trying to make the most of it despite the lingering ramifications of the political mess that is Brexit: Interview: VisitBritain Chairman Steers Tourism Boom Through Brexit Uncertainties

>>The new luxury is very different from the old luxury. Travelers want a more authentic experience, and increasingly that is taking them back to nature: When Travelers Are Willing to Pay for Silence — New Luxury

>>As cruise ships grow in size, the need for innovation in onboard activities and experiences has grown in tandem. Companies like Royal Caribbean Cruises have led the way, but there is still a long way to go until megaship cruises shed their image as a low-brow vacation: Video: Royal Caribbean CEO on Building Smarter Ships

>>The UK has weathered the storm since Brexit, becoming a more attractive place to hold meetings and events. Affordable prices, along with growing high-tech and creative industries, are driving the destination into the future: Brexit Hasn’t Slowed UK Convention Business — Meetings Innovation Report

>>You can’t really blame people who live in and around a popular city for wanting to enjoy the attractions that make it special. Their taxes give them that right, after all. It needs to be factored into overtourism calculations that locals sometimes outnumber other visitors at tourism attractions: Domestic Tourists Often Underestimated in Overtourism Equation

>>TUI Group has used proceeds from sales to invest in hotels and cruise ships. This asset-heavy approach has its risks, but it does give the company more control: TUI Group’s Switch From Tour Operator to Hotel and Cruise Line Is Paying Off