In the dynamic realm of travel, technology has been both a catalyst for innovation and a source of frustration. For travel advisors, the evolution of third-party hotel commission payment systems highlights a perplexing dilemma: while these technologies simplify the booking process, they simultaneously complicate commission management. It’s this inherent contradiction that has travel professionals like
Hotels
The buzz surrounding the National Zoo’s recent introduction of giant pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, hasn’t just sparked excitement among animal lovers but is poised to create a significant economic ripple throughout Washington, D.C. This moment marks a welcome change for the zoo, which has not housed pandas for over a year. During their
Seven years post-Hurricane Irma, Pier Sixty-Six Resort in Fort Lauderdale rises anew, embodying resilience and luxury. Once considered a crown jewel of South Florida tourism, the resort has undergone a comprehensive redevelopment. After shutting its doors in 2017 to execute a new vision for the space, the resort finally reopened on January 10, 2024, promising
The winter sports community is already buzzing with excitement as Vail Resorts and Alterra Mountain Company announce the pricing and details of their 2025-26 ski passes. As ski enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, understanding these offerings is essential. The Epic Pass from Vail Resorts and the Ikon Pass from Alterra Mountain Company have some
In an exciting twist for the hospitality industry, SH Hotels & Resorts has officially reclaimed the iconic Starwood name, a brand synonymous with luxury and exceptional service since its inception by Barry Sternlicht in 1995. The move to rebrand reflects both a reverence for the past and an ambitious gaze towards the future, reaffirming Starwood’s
In the competitive landscape of luxury travel, Trobbu Tulum is emerging as a beacon of innovation, offering something distinctly different from traditional resorts. Launched in January, this new villa rental project introduces 10 bespoke villas, seamlessly blending modern design with the raw beauty of Tulum’s lush jungles. Each villa encompasses 2,745 square feet of living
Las Vegas is undeniably on the upswing as 2024 unfolds, revealing a subtle but significant increase in visitor numbers and tourism-related metrics. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) recently disclosed that around 41.7 million visitors flocked to the entertainment capital, marking a 2.1% rise from the previous year. While convention attendance seems to
The tourism landscape in Palm Beach County, Florida, is experiencing an unprecedented boom often referred to as the “Trump bump.” This phenomenon is a direct result of President Donald Trump’s frequent stays at his Mar-a-Lago estate, placing this coastal paradise center-stage on the global tourism stage. The statistics paint a vivid picture. For instance, hotel
Marriott International is stepping into the realm of opulent wildlife experiences with the introduction of two luxury safari camps in Kenya. The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp, slated to open in August, signifies the brand’s commitment to melding luxurious comfort with the rugged beauty of the African wilderness. This pioneering venture aims not only to
Helsinki, the Finnish capital renowned for its design prowess and vibrant culture, transforms into a serene haven in April. While the chill of winter lingers—characterized by cool, wet days and a palette of gray skies—visitors are greeted by a unique sense of warmth found in the city’s cherished traditions of coziness. From soft lighting to
As the countdown begins for the grand opening of Universal Orlando Resort’s highly anticipated new theme park, Epic Universe, there’s an undeniable wave of enthusiasm sweeping through the travel industry and potential visitors alike. With fewer than 90 days until the gates open, travel advisors are witnessing a sharp increase in bookings, signaling a strong
The recent decision by the Trump administration to lay off 1,000 National Park Service (NPS) employees has raised alarm bells among tour operators who depend on these natural landmarks for their businesses. As the summer tourist season approaches, operators and park advocates are increasingly anxious about how this reduction in staff may disrupt services and
Nestled in the vibrant and eclectic Roma Norte neighborhood of Mexico City, the Casona Roma Norte boutique hotel presents an experience akin to stepping into an immersive art exhibition. This sophisticated establishment, which opened its doors at the end of 2022, is housed in a historical building constructed in 1923, showcasing the architectural charm of
Costa Rica, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has long been a prominent destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Nestled in the picturesque Papagayo Peninsula lies Nekajui, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central America, which has recently opened its doors to the world. This opulent establishment not only embodies the spirit
In the realm of luxury travel, the allure of six-figure vacations has captivated the interest of both advisors and affluent clients alike. However, the blueprint for success in this high-stakes market is anything but straightforward. Travel advisors who routinely arrange such lavish trips have developed unique strategies that cater to a diverse clientele, each with
In an age where seamless travel planning is paramount, Breeze Travel Solutions has made a significant leap forward with the introduction of Caribbean Travel & Tours (CTT). This newly launched booking platform is designed to cater not only to seasoned travel advisors but also to the wider public, presenting an innovative solution for booking flights,
The landscape of the hospitality industry in the United States is currently fraught with uncertainty, largely exacerbated by a severe workforce shortage. This challenge may soon be compounded by the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration policies, leading to potential mass deportations. As hotels and hospitality businesses brace for impact, industry reactions appear polarized. Stakeholders grapple with
The U.S. Travel Association recently ushered in a new chapter in its leadership as William Hornbuckle was appointed as the national chair of its board of directors. Hornbuckle, the current president and CEO of MGM Resorts International, succeeds Chris Nassetta, the CEO of Hilton, marking a significant transitional phase for the association. This change not