Business Travel News

Bulletproof legal immunity for "platforms" like TripAdvisor seems to have softened in recent years. What's certain is that as tours and activities go more mainstream as an option on booking sites, intermediaries will have to put more effort into vetting the tour operators.

The appetite for culinary tourism is growing, sparking demand for experiences beyond cooking classes and dining in Michelin-starred restaurants. Travel advisors and tour operators need to seek out new and inventive ways to satisfy what clients crave.

Instagram and the influence of Anthony Bourdain turned travelers into culinary experience hunters. Travel advisors would be wise to stay on top of all the growing culinary travel trends.

Expensive flights will remain an issue for travel managers going forward. Deals can be had, however, especially in the regions most important to global commerce.

The good news is that airfares aren't set for a major increase in 2020. The bad news is that a softening in the financial outlook for global businesses is the likely cause.

There may be turmoil on Capitol Hill and a contentious presidential election up ahead, but travel advisor leaders don't expect it to put a damper on 2020 sales. They are, however, keeping an eye on the economy and said travel advisors should be extra proactive in keeping clients enthused and confident about travel.

The adage that U.S. presidential election years are bad for business may or may not hold true for 2020. Savvy travel advisors, however, may want to put extra effort into keeping clients confident and enthusiastic about upcoming travel plans.

American Express GBT continues to dominate the travel management space, and this new money will only accelerate its growth.

The travel management company is now valued at $5 billion, but so far its strategy seems pretty much the same: make acquisitions, especially in tech.

Music tourism, much like adventure or wellness travel, is a fast-growing niche worthy of travel advisors' attention. Not only does it appeal to all age groups, but clients will appreciate help in obtaining tickets and making travel arrangements built around events.