Global

Travel Agents

Travel partners defiant as Hilton follows Marriott in reducing group booking commissions

Kristin Mariano Mar 31, 2018

Agents’ worst fears are being realised. Another hotel chain giant, Hilton Worldwide, has followed Marriott International's lead and slashed standard hotel group booking commissions from…

Air

Japan Airlines renews long-term partnership with Sabre to enhance global footprint

Alastair Newport Mar 30, 2018

Tech provider for the global travel industry Sabre, have revealed this week they have renewed their long-term partnership with Japan Airlines (JAL), first established in 2006.

Air

Conversocial adds WeChat support

Simon Willmore Mar 29, 2018

WeChat represents an audience of over 1 bilion users in China, many of whom use it as their sole access to news, information and social networking. However, for many international…

Cruise

More than 600 UK and Ireland agents headed to the 5,518-berth Symphony of the Seas

Simon Willmore Mar 29, 2018

Royal Caribbean launched their newest ship - and the largest cruise ship in the world - the Symphony of the Seas in Saint-Nazaire, France, last week. The cruise line has a trade-specific…

Air

Boom in Asia-to-Europe travel continues, nine new China routes set to start in first half of 2018

Simon Willmore Mar 29, 2018

ForwardKeys has published new research that provides detailed historical and forward analysis on travel growth between European and APAC Markets.

Cruise

Hotelbeds group nets €110M from sales of Destination Management operations to TUI

Simon Willmore Mar 29, 2018

Hotelbeds Group has announced the sale of its Destination Management operations for enterprise value of €110 million to TUI.  This goes against the grain of Hotelbeds' recent behaviour as…

Tourism

Chinese tourists with bad ‘social credit’ face travel ban under country’s new policy

Kristin Mariano Mar 28, 2018

It seems like a plot in the dystopian future featured in Charlie Brooker's dark satire “Black Mirror”. The protagonist Lacie lives in a world where her social rating dictates every aspect…

Air

Why customers “are only #7 on an airline’s list of priorities”

Alastair Newport Mar 28, 2018

As the world’s very first multi-carrier booking system, Air Black Box is in the business of empowering airlines with the ability to “truly cross-merchandise their products”

Hospitality

Emaar Hospitality’s CEO tell us what it takes to be the World’s Greatest Hospitality Talent

Tian Tolentino Mar 28, 2018

As the Emaar Hospitality Group continues its global hunt for the World’s Greatest Hospitality Talent, I asked its CEO Olivier Harnisch, for some advice on how to win - not only in the…

Hotels

Email marketing for hotels: Revinate’s top 5 tips to boost your hotel’s Average Daily Rate (ADR)

Tian Tolentino Mar 27, 2018

Email marketing can have a big impact on your hotel’s ADR and that’s why you need these five basic, but effective tactics, from Revinate’s senior marketing strategist Anisha Yadav.

Maldives

Hilton partners with “premier lifestyle developer” Singha Estate to bring Curio Collection to the Maldives

Tian Tolentino Mar 27, 2018

Adding to its resort portfolio, Hilton has entered into a franchise agreement with Singha Estate Public Company Limited (Singha Estate PCL) to open a new boutique resort in the Maldives.

Air

WTTC – world travel industry growth outpaces global economy in 2017

Alastair Newport Mar 27, 2018

Following last week's report by the WTTC, the 2017 Economic Impact Research, and its summary on the future of Indian travel jobs market, the organisation has announced the global travel…

Air

Emirates might owe you money in light of the new Supreme Court ruling – AirHelp tells you how to claim

Simon Willmore Mar 27, 2018

The UK Supreme Court has declined the Emirates appeal of its enforcement of passenger rights legislation. What should travelers or agencies do on behalf of their travelers now?

Air

Qantas means business in Perth with a new direct flight to London, new lounge and a new take on passenger wellness

Alastair Newport Mar 26, 2018

In a journey set to go down in aviation history, Qantas has hardwired Perth to London, with the completion of the first direct commercial flight between the Australia and the UK.

Consumer

Amadeus wins contract for Flight Centre’s distribution business in EMEA and Asia

Tian Tolentino Mar 26, 2018

Two industry heavyweights come together today as Amadeus and Flight Centre announce their strategic partnership to drive progress for compliance with IATAs' NDC (New Distribution Capability)…

Hotels

European travel trends infographic proves old flames never go out – and Asians spend 32% more on accommodation than locals

Alastair Newport Mar 23, 2018

Travel tech group HospitalityUnited.Club have created European Travel Trends, an infographic outlining key travel metrics and indicators in the continent during 2017.

Hotels

AccorHotels challenges students around the world with Take Off! 2018

Tian Tolentino Mar 23, 2018

Offering adventure, and a chance of a lifetime, the Take Off! challenge is a competition that involves thousands of students from business and hotel management schools, and universities from…

Interviews

“Hey Angie, get me an interview with your creator” – meet the man pushing the envelope of voice-activated hotel tech

Tian Tolentino Mar 23, 2018

Back in February, I wrote about the debut of Angie, the 24-hour interactive guest-room assistant. It’s an innovative piece of technology that’s revolutionising hospitality both for guests…

Technology

WeSwap: Why buy money when you can just swap it?

Tian Tolentino Mar 22, 2018

WeSwap is a fast-paced, high-growth, tech company that’s innovating the way we get travel money. Could it be the currency exchange platform that will change the world?

Technology

How to comply with GDPR: recommendations for the travel industry

Altexsoft Team Mar 22, 2018

The adoption of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has become one of the hottest topics across a broad spectrum of industries. The travel industry is no exception. The GDPR…

Tourism

When in Rome – take the best tour on Earth, guaranteed by TripAdvisor

Tian Tolentino Mar 21, 2018

Every time we book a tour somewhere, all we can do is cross our fingers and hope for an amazing experience. But with TripAdvisor’s 2018 Travel Trends Report, we now know the best tour in the…

Tourism

PHOTOS: 10 happiest countries in the world

Tian Tolentino Mar 20, 2018

Ever wondered which countries are the happiest? The United Nations answers this question with its annual World Happiness Report.

Hotels

Hyatt’s first beach resort in Japan prepares to open – on its own island

Tian Tolentino Mar 20, 2018

The Hyatt Regency Seragaki Island Okinawa is the first Hyatt beach resort in Japan and it’s slated to open in August this year.

Hospitality

Could you be the World’s Greatest Hospitality Talent?

Tian Tolentino Mar 20, 2018

If you’ve got passion and commitment to the hospitality industry, you could be part of the fastest-growing hospitality group in the Middle East.

Consumer

Airbnb empowers disabled guests with new accessibility features

Tian Tolentino Mar 19, 2018

To help guests with disabilities, Airbnb has launched 21 new accessibility features and filters to find homes which better fit their needs.

Technology

Pair of aces: Klook double down on USD$60 million investment

Alastair Newport Mar 19, 2018

With news of Klook’s successful round of series C funding, coming at the end of last year, where the in-destination platform secured US$60 million (the largest deal of its kind) to expand…

Hotels

IHG buys into Regent Hotels & Resorts and goes back to the 80s with Hong Kong property

Simon Willmore Mar 16, 2018

IHG continues its acquisitions streak by expanding its luxury portfolio. While the rest of us were either sleeping or shuttling about, it snapped up a 51% stake in Regent Hotels and Resorts…

Hotels

Best thread forward – How Westin’s Project Rise helps kids all around the world

Tian Tolentino Mar 16, 2018

Just in time for World Sleep Day comes Project Rise: ThreadForward - a sustainability program that collects and reweaves hotel bed linens into thousands of pairs of children’s pyjamas.

Reviews

Putting hotel reviews on the map: Google reviews platform doubles growth in a year

Tian Tolentino Mar 15, 2018

Booking.com is leading the way when it comes to hotel reviews. But Google is fast approaching, and it's bringing monumental growth.

Tourism

How Alipay brings benefit of Chinese tourist boom to SE Asia’s “smallest” merchants

Alastair Newport Mar 13, 2018

Continuing their relentless expansion, and commitment to installing their services for the convenience of Chinese travellers and local merchants all around the world, Alipay have announced…

ANA wants to transfer human consciousness across space and time

Simon Willmore Mar 12, 2018

XPRIZE and ANA announce $10million competition to develop real-life Avatars

MICE

MICE Thailand

Alastair Newport Mar 11, 2018

When it comes to MICE locations, event planners are spoilt for choice in Thailand, especially for agents who are looking to hold a spectacular event without blowing all the budget on the…

Global

THAI implement aircraft rotation after Rolls Royce unable to deliver parts

Alastair Newport Mar 8, 2018

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) announced that due to engine spare part shortage for two of its Airbus A380 aircraft, the company has implemented aircraft rotation…

Global

International Women’s Day special: Stay safe business and leisure trips with these tips

Simon Willmore Mar 2, 2018

We are glad to report in time for Women's Day that, whether for business or for leisure, more women are moving around the world than ever before. Unfortunately, travel, road and health…

Airlines and Aviation

Is Airbnb really planning to launch an airline?

Tian Tolentino Feb 28, 2018

Airbnb made waves recently with the announcement of its major platform updates. And now, reports say, they’re coming up with an even bigger plan.

Technology

Amadeus boosts NDC push with new programme

Simon Willmore Feb 28, 2018

Amadeus recently unveiled a dedicated programme in line with IATA’s push towards product differentiation, time-to-market, full and rich air content accessibility, and a transparent shopping…

Corporate & Business

Corporate travel management: driving technological transformation in the world of business travel

Altexsoft Team Feb 27, 2018

While leisure travel is rapidly moving forward by adopting consumer booking tools and mobile payments, as it drifts away from traditional travel agencies, business travel management is still…

Startups

Startup that lets multiple travel groups meet halfway hailed in 2018 Business Travel Show

Simon Willmore Feb 26, 2018

Group trip organisers and business travellers in multinational organisations can now breathe easier thanks to a new platform where they can plan multi-origin group travel for face-to-face…

Consumer

Airbnb reveals major platform updates with roadmap to 2028

Tian Tolentino Feb 23, 2018

Airbnb unveils a new roadmap for its core home business, designed to bring transformative benefits to every type of traveller.

Travel Agents

Priceline Group rebrands as Booking Holdings

Simon Willmore Feb 23, 2018

In the business of travel, names matter. So why has the Priceline Group, which operates in over 40 languages across more than 220 countries and territories, come out under a new name?

Airlines and Aviation

Aviation Festival Asia 2018: introducing Guest of Honour — Lim Ching Kiat

Alastair Newport Feb 22, 2018

Following my piece introducing SimpliFlying Innovations Lab and the Aviation Festival hogging the schedules of aviation professionals in Singapore next week -- where I spoke to my boss,…

Hotels

Herman Wegmueller reveals scale of MG Group expansion plans

Alastair Newport Feb 22, 2018

Already Southeast Asia’s biggest bedbank, MG Group is not resting on its laurels and is intent on getting bigger and bigger. With it’s home territory wrapped up, MG has lofty ambitions and…

Entrepreneurs

Reclaim adventure by going Anywhr

Simon Willmore Feb 22, 2018

Anywhr, an opaque bespoke tour booking start-up under the National University of Singapore’s NUS Enterprise programme, operates on the belief that “travel is more than just recycling…

Technology

Aviation double feature set to touch down in Singapore

Alastair Newport Feb 21, 2018

Next week is a busy time for aviation folks in Singapore with two extremely popular events, craftily working together, to create an incredible three days for the industry in Asia, and as a…

Hotels

SiteMinder and IDeaS Revenue Solutions study finds hoteliers fear robot-run future

Alastair Newport Feb 20, 2018

A white paper by SiteMinder and IDeaS Revenue Solutions has found that while hoteliers fear a future where their properties are run by robots, they believe artificial intelligence (AI) may…

United States

Book, bid and win: UpsellGuru enhances up-selling strategy for hoteliers

Simon Willmore Feb 19, 2018

UpsellGuru, based in Germany with a satellite office in Malaysia, has become a favourite of boutique chains and independent brands in the luxury side of hospitality for this reason. Launched…

Airlines and Aviation

Tom Enders declares “the ideal candidate” for CEO Airbus Helicopters

Alastair Newport Feb 16, 2018

Airbus has appointed Bruno Even, 49, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Airbus Helicopters, effective 1 April 2018. He will report to Airbus CEO Tom Enders and join the company’s Executive…

Airlines and Aviation

Indian routes stand-out performers of Cathay lacklustre January figures

Alastair Newport Feb 15, 2018

Cathay Pacific Group today released combined Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon traffic figures for January 2018 that show a decrease in number of passengers carried and an increase in cargo…

Technology

Duetto secure record-breaking $80 Million investment from Warburg Pincus

Alastair Newport Feb 15, 2018

Duetto, hospitality's only 'Revenue Strategy Platform', announced have the closing of an $80 million Series D financing round led by funds affiliated with Warburg Pincus, an American global…

Face‑to‑Face

Can hoteliers trust TrustYou?

Simon Willmore Feb 14, 2018

Hospitality and travel professionals should not miss this Q&A with CEO and co-founder Benjamin Yost

Technology

Google’s latest update boosts power of direct booking channels

Tian Tolentino Feb 13, 2018

Google's latest travel update promises to bring ease and convenience to the consumers while boosting the power of direct bookings.

Hotels

The world’s most unromantic hotels for Valentine’s Day

Tian Tolentino Feb 13, 2018

Instead of writing a mushy blog on where to celebrate love on cupid’s day, I’ve hand-picked some of the world’s most unromantic hotels for Valentine's Day.

Airlines and Aviation

SITA scoops prestigious award for groundbreaking biometric tech

Alastair Newport Feb 13, 2018

SITA has won the respected Aviation Technology Achievement at Air Transport World’s 2018 Annual Airline Industry Achievement Awards. The award was given for SITA’s work with JetBlue and the…

Hotels

The most romantic hotels in the world according to TripAdvisor reviews

Tian Tolentino Feb 12, 2018

Romance is in the air and we're giving you a list of the most romantic hotels in the world according to reviews from TripAdvisor.

Corporate & Business

Start-up carves its own niche in the alternative accommodations scene

Simon Willmore Feb 9, 2018

We recently touched base with Valéry Linÿer, CEO and founder of MagicStay, to show us how a rental platform dedicated to business travellers holds its own.

Hotels

You can relive cinema’s iconic moments in these famous movie hotels

Tian Tolentino Feb 9, 2018

If you're big on movies and planning on travelling soon, you might want to check out this list of famous movie hotels you can visit.

Airlines and Aviation

Finnair record breaking run continues with a powerful start to 2018

Alastair Newport Feb 9, 2018

Following the record breaking achievements of 2017, Finnair has powered into 2018, displaying the fastest growth in Finnair’s history - the number of passengers grew by 15.6 per cent in…

Technology

TravelKoin the new blockchain travel service: “In terms of innovation and disruption, this is huge”

Alastair Newport Feb 8, 2018

The problems with business to business payments in the travel industry are numerous and abundant. A single booking from a travel agent, inclusive of flights and accommodations, can pass…

Cruise

Celebrity Cruises announces new sailings from Southampton

Jill Sayles Feb 7, 2018

Celebrity Cruises has added three sailings from Southampton for 2019 and will cruise to the Mediterranean in the school summer holidays for the first time. Destinations will include…

Cruise

Ponant launches Mediterranean & Northern Europe brochure

Jill Sayles Feb 7, 2018

Ponant has published a Mediterranean & Northern Europe brochure with itineraries for summer 2019. The cruise company has included its latest additions in the PONANT EXPLORERS series,…

Tourism

Preferred Hotels celebrate 50 years of “success, growth and innovation”

Alastair Newport Feb 7, 2018

Fifty years after 12 North American hoteliers established Preferred Hotels Association as a referral organization, this week, the Preferred brand celebrates its 50-year anniversary of…

Technology

Travel and booking APIs for online travel and tourism providers – which could you make use of?

Altexsoft Team Feb 6, 2018

According to the study by Fuel and Flip.to, travellers visit 4.4 unique websites to book their holidays. These sites tend to be ‘all-in-one-place’ platforms, done through combining data from…

Mobile & Social

“Every musician is born an entrepreneur” – how piano theory helps the founder of a messaging start-up

Simon Willmore Feb 6, 2018

We got in touch with Unified Inbox CEO and founder Toby Ruckert, to figure out how seemingly disparate interests could create a platform that allows for a harmonious relationship between…

Luxury Travel

Stay One Degree: First social network for luxury home rentals

Tian Tolentino Feb 2, 2018

As the sharing economy continues to grow, more and more consumers are enjoying the convenience and flexibility it brings to the table. Brands like YouTube, Uber, and Airbnb have had a major…

Cruise

NCL celebrates construction milestone for new ship

Jill Sayles Feb 2, 2018

Norwegian Cruise Line has marked the start of construction for its newest ship. Named Norwegian Encore, it will sail the Caribbean from Miami seasonally beginning in autumn 2019.…

Technology

6 essential apps to take on your next big adventure

Tian Tolentino Feb 2, 2018

Going off-the-grid? You'll be needing these 6 essential apps for your next big adventure.

Travel Agents

WEF 2018: Ctrip co-founder on China’s huge market, e-commerce & ageing work force

Alastair Newport Feb 2, 2018

Ctrip attended the 48th World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. Ctrip is the only Chinese online travel industry representative invited to the annual Forum. James Liang, co-founder…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Atlantic unveils latest fleet additions

Jill Sayles Feb 1, 2018

Virgin Atlantic has unveiled the first of four new Airbus A330-200 to join its fleet. 'Daydream Believer' arrived into Gatwick for finishing touches before it enters into service in March…

Airlines and Aviation

ForwardKeys hails “double-digit growth” as travel to Middle East and Africa keeps on climbing

Alastair Newport Feb 1, 2018

Analysis by ForwardKeys, the company that helps forecast future travel by analysing around 17 million flight booking transactions a day, reveals that flight bookings for travel to the Middle…

Airlines and Aviation

IATA: air freight demand up 9% in 2017 – biggest increase in 7 years

Alastair Newport Feb 1, 2018

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released full-year 2017 data for global air freight markets showing that demand, measured in freight tonne kilometers (FTKs) grew by 9.0%.…

Technology

Unpacking traveller needs made easy with Unified Inbox

Simon Willmore Jan 31, 2018

IoT and AI come together through Unified Inbox (UIB), which enables people to talk with all of their smart devices through a single integrated API.

Hotels

Preferred Hotels celebrates 50 years with Golden Anniversary campaign

Jill Sayles Jan 31, 2018

Preferred brand is celebrating its 50-year anniversary. Over the years, it has evolved to become Preferred Hotels & Resorts with more than 650 hotels, resorts, and residences across 85…

Cruise

CLIA releases 2018 State of the Cruise Industry Outlook

Jill Sayles Jan 30, 2018

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has released the 2018 State of the Cruise Industry Outlook, offering a look at the cruise sector’s overall global economic impact as well as the…

Hotels

Hotel front desks are taking a back seat

Tian Tolentino Jan 30, 2018

In one of my recent articles, I’ve put hotel ‘Do Not Disturb’ signs in the spotlight. Those iconic little signs are slowly disappearing in hotels, and now, here’s another hotel staple that…

Face‑to‑Face

‘Talk less, listen more:’ Harnessing data out of customer sentiment with Twistar

Simon Willmore Jan 28, 2018

Twistar, a mobile device that harnesses feedback into actionable data, provides engagement that businesses can customise & customers can enjoy.

Technology

Keeping revenue and guest satisfaction handy

Simon Willmore Jan 26, 2018

Handy has made it possible for hotel operators to engage with guests through all stages of the travel journey, even as they step out of the actual hotel.

Technology

China Southern leverages Sabre intelligence for international growth

Alastair Newport Jan 26, 2018

Sabre Corporation the leading technology provider to the global travel industry, has signed a multi-year agreement to provide Sabre’s Market Intelligence with Global Demand Data (GDD)…

Hotels

Spotlight on Direct Bookings: Triptease report on how OTAs affect the hospitality industry

Alastair Newport Jan 26, 2018

Hotel rates in Asia-Pacific are undercut by OTAs by an average of 11.4%, a new report by Triptease into the Direct Booking Movement in the region reveals...

Cruise

Celebrity speakers confirmed for UK-based ship

Jill Sayles Jan 25, 2018

Princess Cruises has revealed its second round of celebrities who will speak on Southampton-based ship Sapphire Princess this year. The 2,670-guest vessel will head to northern Europe and…

Airlines and Aviation

Alternative in-flight safety videos are all the rage – but are they fit for purpose?

Alastair Newport Jan 25, 2018

Eva Air released a new in-flight safety video last week. And, boy is it different. Eschewing the simple, informative, and let’s face it – dull, safety vids and demonstrations we have been…

Hotels

Preferred Hotels & Resorts reveal revenue of $1.35 billion in 2017

Alastair Newport Jan 25, 2018

Preferred Hotels & Resorts, has announced its 2017 year-end results. In 2017, the company generated $1.35 billion in reservations revenue on behalf of its member properties worldwide, a…

Hotels

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts expanding global portfolio

Tian Tolentino Jan 24, 2018

After a year of highly successful openings including new builds, the rebirth of two historic landmarks and the conversion of one of the world’s finest resorts, Four Seasons Hotels and…

Hotels

World Economic Forum: IHG publish 2018 trends report in Davos

Alastair Newport Jan 24, 2018

Provenance is the foundation for enduring brand success and has become more important than ever for organisations wanting to succeed in today’s complex consumer environment. That is the…

Tourism Boards

Ctrip publish report into China-Europe tourism market

Alastair Newport Jan 24, 2018

Ctrip has released the "2017 China-Europe Tourism Market Data Report" alongside China Tourism Academy (CTA), a specialized institute under China National Tourism Administration (CNTA). The…

Corporate & Business

Demystifying air travel with Mystifly

Simon Willmore Jan 23, 2018

Mystifly has become the definitive anywhere-to-anywhere B2B global airfare marketplace.

Consumer

Going places by making faces: Vacation glow inspires Expedia collab with Estee Lauder

Simon Willmore Jan 22, 2018

Both lifestyle brands jointly offer the opportunity to win the trip-of-a-lifetime to one of eight dream destinations from now until May 2018.

Airlines and Aviation

Marriott web ban is a warning from China

Tian Tolentino Jan 22, 2018

Mariott Int'l suffered the consequences for listing Tibet, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan as separate countries in their online customer survey. What's next?

Hotels

Why hotel ‘Do Not Disturb’ signs are in the spotlight

Tian Tolentino Jan 19, 2018

Hotel 'Do Not Disturb' signs are disappearing. Read this article to find out why and what's in store for them in the future.

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates US$16 billion deal saves the Airbus A380

Alastair Newport Jan 19, 2018

Contrary to recent reports on the future of the Airbus A380  - Emirates has announced a US$ 16 billion (AED 58.7 billion) deal for 36 additional Airbus A380 aircraft, with 20 firm orders and…

Travel Agents

Hotelbeds Group confirms new Bedbank structure

Alastair Newport Jan 19, 2018

Hotelbeds Group, the leading bedbank worldwide and provider of business-to-business services to the global travel industry, has today confirmed the new departmental structure of its Bedbank…

Associations

Research shows Brits’ resilience to travel is stronger in 2018

Jill Sayles Jan 18, 2018

Research by Destinations: the Holiday and Travel Show highlights British travellers’ resilience in the face of political unrest, natural disasters, the threat of terrorism and an unstable…

Technology

TrustYou boasts multiple guest feedback solutions in one login

Simon Willmore Jan 18, 2018

TrustYou ushers in the new year with a new all-in-one guest feedback platform, which features a singular login account and a streamlined user interface.

Airlines and Aviation

Record breaking numbers in passenger traffic & air cargo push demand in 2017

Alastair Newport Jan 18, 2018

A new record 4.1 billion passengers were carried by the aviation industry on scheduled services in 2017, according to the preliminary figures released today by the International Civil…

Hotels

Wyndham Hotel Group continues growth in EMEA

Jill Sayles Jan 17, 2018

Wyndham Hotel Group has continued to expand its footprint across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Eurasia (EMEA) with a number of  openings throughout 2017, bringing the total number of…

Hotels

PHOTOS: Inside the $48,000-a-night Princess Grace Suite

Tian Tolentino Jan 17, 2018

With USD$ 48,000 - you can now book a night at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo and get the Princess Grace Suite, a tribute to Princess Grace Kelly.

Airlines and Aviation

Watch Emirates latest campaign and discover the “trick” of the upgrade

Alastair Newport Jan 17, 2018

Named the Best Airline in the World and Best Economy Class according to the 2017 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, Emirates’ latest ads feature a series of lighthearted videos…

Cruise

Hapag-Lloyd launches main catalogue for expedition ship

Jill Sayles Jan 17, 2018

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has presented its first English-language main catalogue for its new expedition class, together with announcing more specific details. The HANSEATIC inspiration, the…

Cruise

Viking announces 2019 river cruise programme

Jill Sayles Jan 16, 2018

Viking has announced its new 2019 river cruise programme, which features destinations across Europe, France, Portugal, Egypt, China and Russia with cultural experiences and…

United Arab Emirates

CES 2018: VIDEOS: Volocopter and Intel introduce the Air Taxi

Tian Tolentino Jan 16, 2018

CES 2018: German company Volocopter unveils the VC200 Air Taxi - an 18-rotor drone that was made in cooperation with tech-giant Intel.

Hotels

Luxury specialists Scott Dunn buy up Singapore’s Country Holidays

Alastair Newport Jan 15, 2018

Singapore-based tailormade travel specialist Country Holidays today announces its sale to international luxury tour operator, Scott Dunn. Together with Scott Dunn’s existing operations in…

Hotels

The hottest hotels opening in 2018

Tian Tolentino Jan 15, 2018

Planning to go on a dream vacation this 2018? Celebrate the year in style by going to these jaw-dropping hotel destinations.

Hotels

Iberostar announces new strategy

Jill Sayles Jan 15, 2018

Iberostar Group has presented a new international strategy, based on revamped values centred on innovation and focused on people and society in general.      The hotel group, which has…

Entrepreneurs

Travel tech innovation race at full speed with ‘Hotel Jumpstart’

Simon Willmore Jan 15, 2018

Five companies recently pitched for Hotel Jumpstart, a mentorship-driven accelerator programme to support the most innovative travel tech startups.

Technology

CES 2018: WATCH: Marriott unveils ‘hotel room of the future’

Tian Tolentino Jan 15, 2018

Marriot International partners with Samsung and Legrand to introduce the world’s smartest hotel room at the Consumer Electronics Show 2018.

Airlines and Aviation

PACA: Oman Air makes history with first pilot license through MPL programme

Alastair Newport Jan 15, 2018

Oman Air, has taken the initiative to embrace the Multi-Crew Pilot License Programme (MPL) in close coordination with the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) to issue the first Omani…

Tourism

Expedia and ARC reveal best times to book air travel for 2018

Alastair Newport Jan 15, 2018

Expedia group and Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) have released the findings from the fourth annual Air Travel Outlook Report. A hallmark collaboration between two leaders in air…

Cruise

Princess Cruises unveils new Stephen Schwartz production

Jill Sayles Jan 12, 2018

Princess Cruises has revealed details of the third production show it has created in partnership with Oscar-winning composer, Stephen Schwartz. ‘The Secret Silk’ tells the story of a…

Airlines and Aviation

bmi and Holiday Extras launch online car parking service

Jill Sayles Jan 12, 2018

bmi is partnering with Holiday Extras to add a car parking booking facility to its website. bmi customers will be able to find value fares on car parking options at all of the airline’s…

Airlines and Aviation

Eastar Jet sign with Sabre to “to propel us beyond Asia”

Alastair Newport Jan 12, 2018

Sabre Corporation have announced a new global distribution partnership with Eastar Jet, in line with the airline’s vision to go beyond Asia and popularise air travel by creating a reasonable…

Technology

Future Travel Experience unveil FTE Startup Hub with corporate partner JetBlue Technology

Alastair Newport Jan 12, 2018

The FTE Startup Hub has been developed to make it as easy as possible for corporate innovators and startups in the air transport and travel sector to connect both digitally and physically,…

Entrepreneurs

ForwardKeys: Bright outlook for global long-haul travel everywhere but USA

Simon Willmore Jan 11, 2018

This year, everyone wants to be anywhere but in the USA. Or at least that’s what ForwardKeys, a Spain-based intelligence consultancy, reports.

Airlines and Aviation

AAPA : Andrew Herdman announces 2017 as the safest year on record

Alastair Newport Jan 11, 2018

The international air transport industry achieved its safest year on record in 2017, with a total of 10 major accidents involving western built aircraft resulting in 55 fatalities.  This…

Airlines and Aviation

Despite difficult winter Finnair passenger volume keeps climbing

Alastair Newport Jan 11, 2018

Finnair’s December passenger volume reached a new high, the number of passengers per year increased by more than one million to close to 12 million passengers.

Technology

CBInsights reviews 2017 trends in travel tech start-ups and investments

Simon Willmore Jan 10, 2018

Tech analyst company CBInsights argues that travel tech is evolving faster than Pokemon.

Tourism

Travel tech startup receives funding for overseas expansion

Jill Sayles Jan 10, 2018

The Plum Guide, a London-based travel tech startup that lets customers book top-rated homes from more than 25 booking platforms, has raised £5.7m in Series A funding, as part of a round led…

Hotels

Amadeus launch @flightbot AI – great news for TAs

Alastair Newport Jan 10, 2018

Amadeus has developed an AI-powered bot in partnership with GoHero.ai (based in India).  The bot connects LINE users with travel agents, using a messaging platform powered on GoHero’s AI and…

Airlines and Aviation

Oman Air congratulated by GE Aviation for record breaking engine change

Alastair Newport Jan 9, 2018

Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, was recently praised by GE Aviation, for its record breaking Boeing 787 engine change. The procedure was completed in just 20 hours,…

Technology

Marriott International lights up the sky with ECHO technology

Tian Tolentino Jan 8, 2018

Marriott International, Inc. recently launched its “Travel Brilliantly” campaign using optical illusions created by Lightvert, a disruptive media tech company, and Kinetic, a digital…

Tourism

World Tourism Organisation : Global number of travel industry employees revealed

Alastair Newport Jan 5, 2018 20

The World Trade Organisation’s new secretary-general, Zurab Pololikashvili, has released his New Year message this week, his first since taking office in September 2017.

Technology

Hospitality 2.0

Simon Willmore Jan 4, 2018 22

Information and communications technology (ICT) has made its mark in many industries. The hotel and hospitality industry is no exception to this, with everything from reservations to house…

Hotels

Hotel marketing strategies to implement in 2018

Tian Tolentino Jan 4, 2018 17

In this ever-changing world, the hospitality business is in constant evolution. So, for professionals in the hotel marketing industry - staying up-to-date is a must. Here are some of the…

Global

Transport fight club: Taxicabs vs Car rentals vs Ridesharing

Simon Willmore Jan 3, 2018 16

It’s a great time for work and leisure trips, with more transport options now available to get from any airport to the nearest city centre. The true challenge now lies on which ride is the…

OTAs & Tour Operators

G Adventures introduces responsible roadmap for indigenous tourism

Jill Sayles Dec 29, 2017 19

G Adventures, together with its non-profit organisation, Planeterra, and The George Washington University’sInternational Institute of Tourism Studies, has published a set of guidelines to…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Cox & Kings releases travel style 2018 study

Jill Sayles Dec 29, 2017 17

Cox and Kings has looked at travel trends for next year and says that immersive experiences will take precedence over destinations. The operator indicates that in the coming year,…

Hotels

10 amazing hotels that should be on your bucket list

Tian Tolentino Dec 29, 2017 19

We all dream of travelling to places we’ve never been, to see something we’ve never seen. So, for those of you who are craving for that trip of a lifetime, we’ve compiled ten of the most…

Serviced Apartments

Leading villa vacation destinations for 2018 revealed

Simon Willmore Dec 29, 2017 17

Who doesn’t fancy a perfect, personalised getaway full of sun & fun? Turn this fantasy into reality thanks to insights gathered by Villas of Distinction, a full-service booking…

Tourism

The big December freeze set to spur over 3 million* Brits to book a holiday this week

Alastair Newport Dec 28, 2017 19

New research by ATOL, the holiday protection scheme, has found that three million people are set to book their holiday this week, as December’s snowy weather accelerates the holiday booking…

Finance

Travelport CEO discusses results for third quarter of 2017

Alastair Newport Dec 28, 2017 0

Travelport released revenue statistics for the third quarter of 2017, yesterday. Commenting on the numbers Gordon Wilson (main picture), president and CEO of Travelport, cited the Asian…

Tourism

Asia makes strong appearance in adventure travel top 20, but who is number one?

Alastair Newport Dec 28, 2017 19

The British Backpacker Society, a popular online adventure travel project, has revealed the world’s leading adventure travel destination.

Tourism

Which Asian countries made the top 10 locations for budget surfers?

Alastair Newport Dec 27, 2017 21

Heads up wannabe surfers! If you want to learn how to ride the waves without wiping out your bank account, a new ranking suggests heading to Ecuador, which offers the most affordable surfing…

Airlines and Aviation

Does China Airlines really deserve fifth award as best Airline in north Asia?

Alastair Newport Dec 26, 2017 0

It should come as no great surprise that China Airlines that has once again received the nod for best Airline in north Asia by U.S. travel magazine, Global Traveler. Its fifth award in as…

Airlines and Aviation

Korean Air “unbox” their brand new Bombardier

Alastair Newport Dec 26, 2017 16

Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies, and Korean Air Lines recently celebrated delivery of the airline's first Bombardier CS300 aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney's…

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand trial ‘babel’ tech with Google Pixel Buds

Alastair Newport Dec 26, 2017 0

Air New Zealand is turning to technology to tackle the language barriers that often arise during travel. The airline is one of the first corporates globally to trial a customer service use…

Airlines and Aviation

AS2: countdown to world’s first supersonic business jet is go!

Alastair Newport Dec 22, 2017 2

Like most people, I thought I had missed the boat – or plane in this case – of ever smashing the sound barrier, when the last Concorde was taken out of commission back in 2003. But, with…

Tourism

Traveltek reveals top ten Xmas destinations

Jill Sayles Dec 20, 2017 1

Traveltek Group Ltd has revealed the top 10 Christmas destinations for 2017, with New York in the lead among Brits. The city is also the most popular choice with global travellers, while…

Airlines and Aviation

Expedia India’s new ad is rather a nice surprise

Alastair Newport Dec 20, 2017 25

Expedia has launched its new ad campaign for its Indian consumers themed- What a pleasant surprise! The advert, conceptualized by Taproot Dentsu, aims to acquire new shoppers and customers…

Cruise

Ponant Icebreaker: a first in the cruising world

Jill Sayles Dec 19, 2017 15

PONANT has confirmed the order for the first electric hybrid icebreaker, propelled by Liquefied Natural Gas. A first in the cruising world. The PONANT Icebreaker will be for luxury polar…

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand unveil new head of South East Asia

Alastair Newport Dec 19, 2017 21

Air New Zealand has announced the appointment of Jenni Martin as Head of South and South East Asia based in Singapore, replacing Mischa Mannix-Opie who left the company in October.

Hotels

agoda’s Predictions for 2018

Simon Willmore Dec 15, 2017 18

agoda has just published their predictions for 2018.  Simplicity is a highlight with agoda predicting  2018 will see consumers looking for a simpler way to book their travel…

Hotels

OTA Insight to help hotels leverage the power of AI and Machine Learning

Simon Willmore Dec 15, 2017 10

I’ve been impressed with the progress with both product and customers OTA Insight, has made in 2017…they have been crushing it!

Technology

Sabre and Fareportal commit to longterm contract extension

Alastair Newport Dec 15, 2017 19

Sabre Corporation has renewed its long-term partnership with Fareportal to provide advanced shopping technology and access to Sabre's exclusive inventory of travel services including air,…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia Beyond Aviation – New CEO for Digital Transformation Aireen Omar

Alastair Newport Dec 15, 2017 315

AirAsia has announced that its board of directors has unanimously approved senior leadership changes, in line with the AirAsia Group’s new digitalisation strategy.

Events

Best of the best: all the big winners of WTA 2017

Alastair Newport Dec 15, 2017 22

After a year of holding regional pageants that crowned the best hotels, airlines, resorts and destinations around the world, Singapore Airlines, Portugal and Bolivia emerged as some of the…

Travel Agents

Expedia and ARC bust the “last minute myth” and the truth about airfare savings in 2018

Alastair Newport Dec 14, 2017 0

Expedia and ARC have released the findings of the fourth annual ARC Air Travel Outlook Report, a significant collaboration between two leaders in air travel. The report also features…

Hotels

Marriott International unveil luxury hospitality specialist as new VP

Alastair Newport Dec 14, 2017 0

Marriott International have announced the appointment of Bruce Ryde as Asia-Pacific vice-president for Luxury Brands and Brand Marketing. Bruce will be based in the company’s Asia-Pacific…

Airlines and Aviation

Bad or good? Emirates wants you to treat yourself this Christmas

Alastair Newport Dec 14, 2017 21

Emirates is spreading the festive joy with treats across all cabin classes this December. Customers travelling for the holidays will enjoy several Christmas surprises both on the ground and…

Global

Tourism overcrowding: the answer starts with long-term planning

Jill Sayles Dec 13, 2017 2

Overcrowding in tourist destinations is a complex problem which varies from destination to destination and requires long-term planning with all stakeholders to solve, according to a new WTTC…

Airlines and Aviation

World Travel Awards hat-trick crowns a special year for Deer Jet

Alastair Newport Dec 13, 2017 21

For the third year in a row, Deer Jet has been selected as the "World's Leading Private Jet Charter", at the The World Travel Awards (WTA), the travel industry's leading awards programme.

Airlines and Aviation

E-Fan X: the hybrid engine which could change the way we fly – forever

Alastair Newport Dec 12, 2017 26

Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and Siemens have formed a partnership which aims at developing a near-term flight demonstrator which will be a significant step forward in hybrid-electric propulsion for…

Airlines and Aviation

WTA Grand Final 2017: The “world’s true low-cost champion” according to Tony Fernandes

Alastair Newport Dec 12, 2017 19

AirAsia has been named the for the fifth year in a row at the 2017 World Travel Awards (WTA) Grand Final.World’s Leading Low-Cost Airline

Hotels

Preferred Hotels announces new properties

Jill Sayles Dec 8, 2017 8

Preferred Hotels & Resorts has announced 14 new properties scheduled to launch in the New Year.  The openings will be global, from Houston and Shanghai to Vienna and Charleston.…

Airlines and Aviation

Royal Brunei Airlines announces partnership with Heathrow Rewards

Jill Sayles Dec 8, 2017 5

Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) has announced the launch of a new partnership that enables RB’s Royal Skies members to spend their Heathrow Rewards points on frequent flyer miles. The Heathrow…

Airlines and Aviation

‘Strengthening the Airport Value Proposition’ or how to hack an airports customer appeal?

Alastair Newport Dec 6, 2017 21

The fundamental value of an airport - the ability to attract passengers who want to fly there – remains unchanged. But as passenger volumes continue to rise worldwide, the competition…

Airlines and Aviation

APAC leads Global Aviation Market: India stands out with 20% domestic growth

Alastair Newport Dec 6, 2017 10

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced global passenger traffic results for October showing that demand (measured in revenue passenger kilometres, or RPKs) rose 7.2…

Associations

UNWTO: Say hello to the new Special Ambassador of the International Year 

Alastair Newport Dec 5, 2017 1

United Nations designated the year 2017 “International Year of Sustainable Tourism Development” and World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) plays a leading role to promote it. UNWTO and Sanrio…

Technology

Going IPP in the world: Global Transcreation set to transform international marketing

Alastair Newport Dec 5, 2017 17

IPPWORLD hits the scene with an entirely new website designed specifically for international businesses in the hospitality, hotel, travel, lifestyle and retail industries.

Technology

Achieving gender diversity must start at the top says Booking.com CEO

Alastair Newport Nov 30, 2017 7

Booking.com has revealed findings from a unique global study conducted to better understand the perceptions of women working in non-tech roles within the technology industry. The data…

Face‑to‑Face

Q&A with Rachel Grier, Asia-Pacific managing director for IDeaS Revenue Solutions

Alastair Newport Nov 29, 2017 26

Travel Daily sat down with Rachel to discuss tech, MICE and how IDeaS Revenue Solutions has released the potential of “free sell”.

Hotels

Who won what at the AccorHotels 2017 Pacific Franchise Awards?

Alastair Newport Nov 29, 2017 16

Pullman Reef Hotel & Casino hosted the AccorHotels Pacific Franchise Conference on 23 & 24 November which was attended by over 100 franchisees, potential owners and industry movers…

Appointments

AMEX signs former Global Business Travel Association India board member

Alastair Newport Nov 24, 2017

American Express Global Business Travel (GBT) announces today the appointment of Ashish Kishore as the new Managing Director for GBT, India. In his new role, Ashish will have overall…

Technology

Air New Zealand experiments with blockchain technology

Alastair Newport Nov 24, 2017 9

Air New Zealand is exploring the use of blockchain-based systems within its business, reinforcing its global reputation for innovation and embracing new and emerging technology.

Associations

ICAO’s Dr. Fang Liu: “greater transparency is needed for social and economic benefits”

Alastair Newport Nov 23, 2017 21

ICAO Secretary General Dr. Fang Liu told ICAO member states yesterday that in order for them to safely and efficiently manage forecast growth, and optimize the social and economic benefits…

Hotels

Model employee? W Hotels has signed two international style icons

Alastair Newport Nov 23, 2017 8

W has a brand-new look, bringing supermodel-level style to W guests and fashion fans on-the-go. W Hotels today announced the debut of the exclusive “Off Duty” Closet, the latest project…

Global

Travel The Unknown starts working with the trade

Jill Sayles Nov 22, 2017 16

Experiential holiday company Travel The Unknown, has turned to independent agents for the first time, to sell its trips to destinations including Iran, Ethiopia, Bhutan and the Balkans.…

Global

Hottest adventure travel destinations revealed

Jill Sayles Nov 21, 2017 22

G Adventures has used its data and combined it with topical world events to forecast the hottest spots to travel in 2018. From destinations on the rebound, to places where events and…

OTAs & Tour Operators

What are the travel trends for 2018?

Jill Sayles Nov 20, 2017 18

Trafalgar CEO, Gavin Tollman indicates seven travel trends for next year.  Ready or not, we are into the final 50 days of the year. One naturally pauses to reflect on events of the past…

Hotels

Rotana appoints corporate vice president of sales

Jill Sayles Nov 17, 2017 17

Rotana has announced the appointment of Declan Hurley as its new corporate vice president of sales. He has over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry and joins from The…

Airlines and Aviation

Cathay Pacific to Gogo-go online and rolls out wifi in 2018

Alastair Newport Nov 17, 2017 15

The Cathay Pacific Group will introduce high-speed Wi-Fi to its Boeing 777 and Airbus A330 fleets from mid-2018, in response to its customers’ growing demand for inflight connectivity. This…

Cruise

MSC announces name of new ship

Jill Sayles Nov 16, 2017 8

MSC Cruises has announced the name of its first Meraviglia Plus ship, which will be called MSC Grandiosa. The announcement was made by the company's executive chairman, Pierfrancesco…

Hotels

TRVL: Apple alumni rewards consumers for being own TA’s

Alastair Newport Nov 15, 2017 53

TRVL, the new peer-to-peer travel booking platform,  is revealing the secrets of the Travel Industry, giving  travellers full access to industry rates and exclusive deals, pays a commission…

Hotels

Sokha Hotels: ideal hosts for Miss Global 2017

Alastair Newport Nov 15, 2017 24

Sokha Hotels & Resorts, Cambodia's leading hospitality company, today announced the official hotels for Miss Global 2017 during her weeks long visit across its portfolio nationwide…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates’ new first-class suites “push the boundaries” but are they any good?

Alastair Newport Nov 14, 2017 21

Emirates has unveiled completely refreshed interiors for its Boeing 777 aircraft, including its highly anticipated new First Class private suites.

Technology

Sansiri diversifies: 650 million investment to industry pioneers

Alastair Newport Nov 14, 2017 15

In a bid to move beyond real estate development, Sansiri Public Company Limited has invested US$80 million (HKD 650 million/ SGD 110 million) into six leading global technology and lifestyle…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Hayes & Jarvis combines USA, Mexico and Caribbean

Jill Sayles Nov 11, 2017 16

Hayes & Jarvis  has launched its first ever USA, Mexico and Caribbean destination guide for 2018/2019.  As one of the largest guides in its collection, it features more than 150…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Independent Insider: Contiki launches new trip style

Jill Sayles Nov 10, 2017 25

Alongside the launch of its Europe Summer 2018/19 programme, Contiki has introduced a new travel style: Independent Insider.  The itineraries aim to reimagin group travel and allow…

Cruise

World’s largest athlete meets world’s largest cruise line

Alastair Newport Nov 10, 2017 23

Princess Cruises, the world’s largest international premium cruise line announced today that Yao Ming and his wife, Ye Li, will serve as Inaugural Cruise Ambassadors for Princess Cruises in…

OTAs & Tour Operators

JacTravel launches in-memory computing software

Jill Sayles Nov 7, 2017 16

JacTravel, the UK based B2B accommodation wholesaler, is rolling out its new FIT booking platform using in-memory computing software which will reduce search response times, whilst at the…

Global

MSC launches second world cruise

Jill Sayles Nov 2, 2017 23

MSC Cruises has announced the opening of sales of its second world cruise, setting sail in 2020. Sales are available now for MSC Voyagers Club members and everyone else on November 23.…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Luxury Gold 2018 Worldwide adds six destinations

Jill Sayles Nov 2, 2017 15

Luxury Gold has launched its 2018 Worldwide Luxury Escorted Journeys brochure featuring nine new journeys and six new destinations: Japan, Costa Rica, South Africa, Montenegro, Croatia and…

Cruise

Virgin Voyages begins construction of first ship

Jill Sayles Nov 1, 2017 21

Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson and Virgin Voyages president and CEO Tom McAlpin hosted a ‘Ship Tease’, where details were revealed about the first of three ships debuting in 2020.…

Associations

Aito welcomes investigation into online hotel booking sites

Jill Sayles Nov 1, 2017 16

The Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) says it welcomes the investigation - announced 27 October, 2017 - to be undertaken by the Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) into…

Tourism

TravelBird: study reveals most hospitable city on the planet

Alastair Newport Nov 1, 2017 0

Online travel specialists TravelBird have released a study ranking international cities according to how welcome they are in relation to their levels of over-tourism.

Cruise

Azamara announces new destinations and experiences on Pursuit

Jill Sayles Oct 31, 2017 11

Azamara Club Cruises has revealed its 2018-19 sailings for the brand’s newest addition, Azamara Pursuit. The Azamara Pursuit, announced in September, joins sister ships Azamara Quest…

OTAs & Tour Operators

G Adventures rebrands youth travel style

Jill Sayles Oct 31, 2017 12

G Adventures has rebranded its ‘Yolo’ programme of tours for younger travellers to ‘18-to-Thirtysomethings’.  The refresh is being made to make it clear to customers that these trips are…

Cruise

Viking orders seven new river ships for 2019

Jill Sayles Oct 31, 2017 25

Viking® has announced it has placed an order for seven new river ships that will debut in 2019.  The newbuild order includes six additional Viking Longships®, which will sail the…

Airlines and Aviation

From underdog to industry big beast: ten years of AirAsia X

Alastair Newport Oct 30, 2017 13

Long-haul low-cost carrier AirAsia X reaffirms its commitment to make long-haul flying affordable for everyone in celebration of its 10th anniversary, through an extensive network expansion…

Events

Frozen Lime: the new player on top of future trends, at ITB Asia 2017

Alastair Newport Oct 27, 2017 2

In conjunction with ITB Asia 2017 in Singapore, CEO and co-founder of Frozen Lime Asia, Ms Jagdish Sandhu, has announced that hospitality brands can now outsource their revenue,…

Events

MICE and Corporate buyers flock to ITB Asia 2017

Alastair Newport Oct 26, 2017 18

Celebrating its 10th anniversary as Asia’s Leading Travel Trade Show, ITB Asia 2017 has opened its doors today at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands.

Tourism

Singaporeans become the most “powerful” travellers in the world

Alastair Newport Oct 26, 2017 11

Paraguay has removed visa requirements for Singaporeans, propelling Singapore's passport to the top of Passport Index' most powerful ranking with a visa-free score of 159.

Associations

“We are headed for a major infrastructure crisis” IATA warns Assembly of Presidents

Alastair Newport Oct 26, 2017 9

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for urgent action to address the challenges of infrastructure, regulatory harmonization and sustainability.

Technology

Sabre: predictive analytics represent a tectonic shift for hospitality

Alastair Newport Oct 25, 2017 12

Sabre Corporation has developed the hospitality industry’s first analytics platform to use artificial intelligence to help maximize total hotel revenue. SynXis Analytics Cloud is Sabre’s new…

HR & Careers

Face to Face: Brian Sinclair-Thompson and Deborah Haines

Alastair Newport Oct 25, 2017 0

People, quality, integrity and delivery are at the core of Discover the World’s philosophy. And the global travel services and distribution company, has developed a rather enviable…

Hotels

Pavilions Hotels and Dragon Master maximise Niseko’s “best-kept secret”

Alastair Newport Oct 24, 2017 17

Pavilions Hotels & Resorts has secured two new partnerships in Japan to coincide with the launch of the USD100 million-valued The Ginto Residences in Niseko, which will be managed by the…

Airlines and Aviation

And Condé Nast’s top airline in the world is?

Alastair Newport Oct 23, 2017 14

Air New Zealand has been named Top Airline in the World by prestigious US magazine Condé Nast Traveler in its 30th  annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

Airlines and Aviation

The psychological system which turns air-rage into air-profit

Alastair Newport Oct 20, 2017 14

Guestlogix, a global provider of commerce teach and ancillary revenue generation to airlines, has published an academic report identifying the psychological concept of "learned helplessness"…

Consumer

The Lone Travellers website launches

Jill Sayles Oct 19, 2017 15

The Lone Travellers website offering quick travel information for solo travellers has launched.  From finding visa and safety information to getting a restaurant recommendation, the…

Consumer

Travelzoo uncovers the secret travel habits of Hong Kong

Alastair Newport Oct 19, 2017 27

Travelzoo, a global publisher of exclusive travel offers, has disclosed the travel preferences of Hong Kong travellers. The information is based upon data derived from their first half-year…

Associations

What have Chinese companies learnt about client facing travel?

Alastair Newport Oct 19, 2017 16

The CITS American Express Global Business Travel 2017 China Business Travel Survey (the Barometer) has revealed that 31 percent of Chinese companies expect travel budgets to rise over the…

Appointments

Anantara Vacation Club appoints new chief commercial officer

Alastair Newport Oct 19, 2017 0

Anantara Vacation Club, has announced that Maurizio Bisicky, formerly chief commercial officer, has been promoted to chief operating officer.  In his new role, Maurizio will add finance,…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia “go beyond basic fare rules” with Sabre

Alastair Newport Oct 18, 2017 10

Sabre Corporation has announced that Virgin Australia has recently implemented Sabre Branded Fares, joining a growing list of airlines globally.