Maria Lenhart, Skift
Virtuoso Travel Week drew record attendance to the annual event it likens to Fashion Week. While heavily touting the consortium's new Wanderlist travel planning tool, it also emphasized the human touch.
19 hours ago
Maria Lenhart, Skift
While the cruise industry's dismal record on sustainability hasn't yet sparked concern among most cruise passengers or inspired major changes, small cruise operators are stepping up their game on green practices.
1 week ago
Allan Leibowitz, Skift
There hasn’t been much backlash after Carnival Corp. copped a guilty plea and a $20 million fine for polluting the ocean, but some smaller cruise operators are pushing their green credentials in the hope of differentiating themselves.
1 week ago
John Lauerman and Lisa Pham, Bloomberg
A drop in the value of the British pound relative to the euro and the dollar is pressuring On the Beach. Smaller players like this UK-based packaged-vacation seller can't afford the currency hedges and other benefits of scale that larger players can. More industry consolidation is likely as a result.
2 weeks ago
Sean O'Neill, Skift
Some religions take it on faith that their messiah will come, but they stoically accept that the arrival has been delayed indefinitely. Similarly, Despegar believes that the online travel revolution will sweep Latin America, but it accepts that the glorious moment has been delayed indefinitely. Consumer financing is its secret sauce to sustain itself while it waits.
2 weeks ago
Maria Lenhart, Skift
Highly publicized incidents and policy changes surrounding some of the Caribbean's most popular destinations are putting a snafu in travel plans. As always, travel advisors need to roll with the punches and find workable alternatives for clients.
2 weeks ago
Maria Lenhart, Skift
A proliferation of women-only tours reflects the fact that women are a driving force behind the trend for experiential and adventure-oriented travel. The tours enable participants to interact with women from cultures far different than their own.
2 weeks ago
Paul Biasco, Skift
In the age of mass media, word of incidents in travel destinations quickly spread across the globe, and travel advisors need to be prepared to handle client requests for changes in their wake. It's important for advisors to start looking for backup plans when news begins to break.
2 weeks ago
Sean O'Neill, Skift
A strong job market means lots of consumers are spending on domestic travel. But rising wages and recently tightened rules on visas for seasonal workers are pressuring some sectors. We take a sector-by-sector look.
3 weeks ago
Maria Lenhart, Skift
The proliferation of resort fees even at non-resort hotels is creating an extra layer of responsibility for travel advisors. Along with ensuring that their clients are aware of the charges, many are also recommending alternative hotels.
3 weeks ago
Allan Leibowitz, Skift
Expedition cruises have come a long way from bunk accommodations on old Russian ships, with a growing fleet of luxury vessels presenting lucrative opportunities for travel advisors. It's especially so for those looking for unique holiday solutions for their well-heeled customers.
3 weeks ago
Maria Lenhart, Skift
Not only are resort fees an annoyance for hotel guests, but they put the onus on travel advisors to make sure clients are aware of what their stay will actually cost. Some advisors are fighting back by steering clients toward properties that don't charge the fees.
3 weeks ago