Chefs as Destination Ambassadors and 9 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.

>>We’ve made a list, and checked it twice, specifically looking at places where purveyors of luxury travel are setting up shop this year: The Luxury Destinations Making a Big Impact in 2018

>>It’s difficult to pin down exactly what’s going to dominate the headlines in the luxury travel sector in 2018, but expect a handful of destinations to grow in popularity and for hoteliers to talk up the benefits of enhanced personalization: Upscale Destinations and Tech Innovations to Watch in 2018 — New Luxury

>>Who’s speaking at our second annual Skift Forum Europe? We reveal a first look! First Look at the Speakers to Join Skift Forum Europe

>>All-inclusive vacations aren’t necessarily just for low-end consumers seeking high convenience. The luxury corner of the all-inclusive market has staying power: Video: Apple Leisure Group CEO on the Appeal of Luxury All-Inclusive

>>Tourism boards have their critics who say destinations don’t drive as much innovation as other travel sectors. But destination marketers are increasingly proving their naysayers wrong, and in some cases they are changing the tech landscape in their communities: Tourism Boards Used New Platforms to Woo Connected Travelers in 2017

>>Leaders in corporate travel expect a strengthening global economy to propel the industry in the year ahead — so long as security concerns remain stable. With unemployment low, businesses are increasing their focus on traveler satisfaction to compete for employees: Corporate Travel Execs Hope 2018 Will Be Less Tumultuous Than Last Year

>>A new year brings new hope for business travel. But how different can we really expect 2018 to be from its predecessor given rising political and economic instability around the world? Safety and Growth Top 2018 Priorities — Corporate Travel Innovation Report

>>They say one of the best ways to get to know a place is through its food, and chefs have plenty of stories to tell that can resonate with travelers. There will be plenty of more such marketing campaigns served up in 2018: Chefs as Destination Ambassadors Appeal to Travelers’ Foodie Obsessions

>>Embracing influencers and virtual reality, Jordan tourism is working to evolve as destination marketing tactics change: Jordan Tourism Adjusts to Rapid Changes in Destination Marketing

>>Luxury hospitality is no longer defined by marble bathrooms and turndown service. To compete and appeal to today’s luxury guest, hotels have to be a lot smarter and more thoughtful than ever before: Luxury Travel Confronts a Widening Identity Crisis