Travelers who use artificial intelligence for trip planning and in‑destination support are emerging as the industry’s most valuable customer segment, according to new research from Phocuswright.  The findings show that AI‑using travelers take more trips, spend significantly more per year and engage more deeply with digital travel tools than those who have not adopted AI. Phocuswright’s new report, The AI Surge: Travel’s Fastest Behavioral Shift in a Decade, reveals that AI travelers have a median household income of $129,200 compared to $104,000 for nonusers, and take 3.8 leisure trips per year versus 2.9 among nonusers. They also spend $4,500 annually on leisure travel, far outpacing the $3,000 spent by those who do not use AI.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 14:09:32 +0000

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is pleased to welcome Switzerland Tourism (ST) as a Destination Partner. Switzerland Tourism is the national destination marketing organisation responsible for promoting Switzerland as a travel destination. Working in partnership with the tourism industry and the public sector, it positions Switzerland worldwide as a high-quality, sustainable and year-round destination for leisure and business travel.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 14:07:19 +0000

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is pleased to welcome Barceló as a Global Member. Founded in Mallorca in 1931, Barceló Group has grown into one of the world’s leading hospitality companies, with a presence across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East. The Group operates a diverse portfolio of 288 hotels under four distinct brands, ranging from luxury boutique properties to large-scale resorts and urban hotels, reflecting its broad reach across global travel markets.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 13:51:48 +0000

Luxury travel is shifting toward residential hospitality, as private villas redefine privacy, flexibility and high-end travel experiences.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 13:21:42 +0000

Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, will progressively roll-out the Destination Collection, a new collectable amenity kit line, in Business cabins across its network this summer. The Destination Collection will feature 14 designs to collect, each design inspired by a stunning city from within the Etihad global network and includes a new range of LANEIGE skincare products to elevate the guest experience onboard. The Destination Collection: Inspired by the World We Fly
at Wed, 06 May 2026 08:37:32 +0000

Minor Hotels, the international hotel owner, operator and investor, has unveiled plans for the future debut of its luxury Anantara brand in the Caribbean. Scheduled to open in 2029, the development of Anantara Turks and Caicos Resort & Residences further strengthens the brand’s expansion into leading luxury destinations worldwide. Set along the pristine Sandy Point coastline of North Caicos, the low-density development’s 78 branded residences, including a collection of beachfront villas, will all be available for private ownership. Bringing a contemporary sensibility to the island’s natural calm, Anantara Turks and Caicos Resort & Residences will be shaped for generous indoor–outdoor living by Miami-based RAD and Meyer Davis, an award-winning architecture and design firm renowned for its work across some of the most iconic luxury hospitality and residential projects worldwide.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:51:38 +0000

Korean Air and Asiana Airlines celebrated Children’s Day by hosting a joint aviation education program at the National Aviation Museum of Korea in Seoul, inspiring youth to explore careers in aviation. Approximately 200 students attended the event, where volunteer pilots and cabin crew from both airlines shared firsthand experiences and insights into careers in aviation.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:48:14 +0000

JetBlue today launched its new and enhanced benefits for the JetBlue Premier World Elite Mastercard®, issued by Barclays US Consumer Bank, bringing together its most valuable and differentiated travel benefits into a more valuable card experience. Cardmembers gain access to new statement credits, accelerated Mosaic status and expanded travel rewards, all while maintaining the same annual fee.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:42:25 +0000

flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, has reaffirmed the strength of customer confidence in the United Arab Emirates and Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub, following the multiple airspace disruptions that took place since the beginning of the regional conflict. During this challenging period, the UAE’s decisive leadership ensured that all measures taken prioritised the wellbeing of passengers and crew, while maintaining operational integrity. Temporary airspace closures were implemented proactively based on real-time intelligence and risk assessments, with a carefully coordinated and phased reopening that reinforced trust in the system.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:39:45 +0000

Etihad Airways will showcase its role as one of the UAE’s largest global exporters of services and a key driver of national economic growth at Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) 2026, the country’s largest industrial trade platform, taking place from 4 to 7 May at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Etihad generates more than AED 29 billion in annual revenue through the export of aviation and logistics services to global markets, directly contributing to the UAE economy. Through its wider role in tourism, trade and connectivity, the airline drives over AED 130 billion in economic activity across the UAE.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:33:33 +0000

This Eid Al Adha, Desert Rock Resort invites guests to mark the occasion with Once in a Blue Moon, a series of exclusive evenings that bring together gastronomy by Osman Sezener, guided astronomy and live electronic music. Set within the Hijaz mountains at The Red Sea destination, just 20 minutes from Red Sea International Airport, and recognised with two Michelin Keys in its first year, the resort offers one of the most striking settings in the region for the celebration.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:23:13 +0000

Leading online travel agent, Opodo, part of the eDreams ODIGEO family (which also includes brands like eDreams, Go Voyages, Liligo and Travellink) has shared its latest poll uncovering traveller’s airport habits and what drives us crazy - from cutting queues to leaving trash behind, the global poll of 9000* respondents included 2000 from the UK, reveals all.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:20:08 +0000

This May, Ramble Worldwide, is celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Lake District National Park (9th May) and National Walking Month by offering up to 20% off bookings on its Hassness House holidays in Buttermere and double loyalty points on bookings for all its tours around the world. 2026 is a landmark year for lovers of the great outdoors and walkers, with Ramble Worldwide celebrating its 80th anniversary and the National Parks of the Peak District, Lake District, Snowdonia and Dartmoor marking 75 years since they were formed to conserve the UK’s natural beauty and provide recreational opportunities for the public.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:18:46 +0000

Vision Walks Eco-Tours is renowned for its deeply engaging nature experiences that connect guests with the landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the Byron Bay region and hinterland, on Bundjalung country. The company specialises in small-group, guided eco-tours led by local experts and ecologists, with backgrounds in environmental science, offering an advanced level of insight and interpretation of local ecosystems. Founder Wendy Bithell said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to conservation, storytelling, and meaningful travel experiences.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:15:42 +0000

Health City Cayman Islands welcomed survivors for a day of healing and hope as it launched its inaugural Cancer Survivors Wellness Retreat last month, featuring a leading expert from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Through its corporate social responsibility initiative, Health City Cares, the hospital hosted the full-day program at VIDA Cayman Islands in West Bay, creating a supportive oceanfront environment for cancer survivors to focus on wellness, connection and life beyond treatment.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:04:16 +0000

The Westin Playa Vallarta, an All-Inclusive Resort has officially opened as Westin’s first all-inclusive property in Mexico. Located along the shores of Banderas Bay, the resort introduces a refined, experience-driven interpretation of all-inclusive travel – one shaped by thoughtful design, chef-led culinary experiences, and Westin’s longstanding commitment to well-being. Formerly The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta, the property has undergone an extensive, multi-million dollar transformation spanning its guest rooms and new adults-only swim-up suites, dining venues, wellness spaces, and more. The result is a thoughtfully refreshed resort experience that balances Westin’s philosophy of well-being with the ease and rhythm of life on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, creating a foundation for a stay defined by comfort, stunning design, and connection to place.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 07:00:07 +0000

Virgin Atlantic is welcoming the new season with fresh food and drink options onboard and in the Heathrow Clubhouse. The new menus are as bold and vibrant as the destinations the airline flies to, with flavour-packed dishes, regional twists and a reimagined drinks selection across every cabin from 6th May.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 06:57:28 +0000

Leading senior Canadian travel operator Approach Tours has unveiled its highly anticipated new cruise portfolio, marking the company’s expansion into ocean expedition and river cruising. Its distinctive small-group, radically all-inclusive model has been designed to meet growing demand for more immersive and seamless travel experiences.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 19:13:19 +0000

Long Lake Management is preparing to acquire American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) in a $6.3 billion deal. Moreover, the acquisition aims to accelerate the growth of AI-enabled travel solutions. As a result, this major move could reshape the future of AI-driven travel acquisitions and highlight how travel technology strategies are evolving across the industry.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 19:07:14 +0000

For the first time, the publication brings together the full range of the operator’s expanded offering including new European Cruise and Tour journeys, as well as the inaugural collection of Luxury Long-Haul Land holidays
at Tue, 05 May 2026 15:43:19 +0000

From this summer, Air Canada is offering a new year-round coach connection service from Toronto Pearson International Airport to the Niagara Falls region, starting on 15 June 2026. The seamless service enables convenient onward travel for passengers from Ireland, with travel agents able to book through connections for customers between Dublin and Niagara (YCM). The fare is aligned with a standard Dublin-to-Toronto itinerary and includes the integrated coach transfer, enabling passengers to travel easily to Niagara.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 10:03:33 +0000

Cheval Collection, the UK-based, award-winning hospitality company specialising in luxury serviced apartments, is expanding its branded residences offering with Cheval Residences Knightsbridge Gate, just two weeks after the launch of Cheval Residences Dubai Islands. Cheval Residences Knightsbridge Gate is the UK flagship Cheval Collection’s branded residences business, with further properties currently under negotiation. Its launch comes hot on the heels of the unveiling of Cheval Residences Dubai Islands, the group’s first branded residences property, set for completion in 2029. More Cheval Collection branded residences and hotel apartment offerings are planned for the Middle East, adding to existing Cheval Maison hotel apartments at Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah and Expo City, and upcoming offerings in Riyadh.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 07:02:29 +0000

Cheval Collection, the UK-based, award-winning hospitality company specialising in luxury serviced apartments, is expanding its branded residences offering with Cheval Residences Knightsbridge Gate, just two weeks after the launch of Cheval Residences Dubai Islands. Cheval Residences Knightsbridge Gate is the UK flagship Cheval Collection’s branded residences business, with further properties currently under negotiation. Its launch comes hot on the heels of the unveiling of Cheval Residences Dubai Islands, the group’s first branded residences property, set for completion in 2029. More Cheval Collection branded residences and hotel apartment offerings are planned for the Middle East, adding to existing Cheval Maison hotel apartments at Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah and Expo City, and upcoming offerings in Riyadh.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 07:02:25 +0000

Boeing and EgyptAir announced today the Egyptian national airline took delivery of its first 737 MAX. The 737-8 is the first of 18 airplanes leased from SMBC Aviation Capital to be delivered and represents the first 737 MAX in Egypt. “The delivery of our first Boeing 737 MAX marks a significant milestone in our fleet modernization strategy. By integrating the 737-8 into our operations, EgyptAir Holding is committed to providing our passengers with a superior travel experience while achieving greater operational efficiency,” said Captain Ahmed Adel, chairman and CEO of EgyptAir Holding Company. “This aircraft’s advanced technology and reduced environmental footprint align perfectly with our vision for sustainable growth and our dedication to maintaining a young, state-of-the-art fleet that connects Egypt to the world.”
at Tue, 05 May 2026 07:00:33 +0000

Southwest Airlines is reinforcing a decades-long commitment to both Las Vegas (LAS) and Orlando (MCO) by adding waves of new flights beginning this spring and continuing through Spring 2027. The enhanced flight schedules build on the carrier’s longstanding position as the largest air carrier in both communities and bring new ways to travel nonstop between dozens of cities and two of the most dynamic leisure and convention markets in the United States.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:56:03 +0000

Aer Lingus will expand its summer schedule by introducing three new short-haul routes. A new service from Cork to Nice will commence on Saturday, while two new routes from Dublin to Norway’s capital Oslo and Asturias, a hidden gem in the north of Spain, will also take off for the first time. Seasonal routes from Dublin to Pisa in Italy’s Tuscany region, Catania in Sicily, Nantes in France, and the Greek islands of Santorini and Corfu, will also return this weekend, offering Aer Lingus customers a wide range of options for summer getaways.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:54:52 +0000

One airline, two years of development, three clear principles, and four cabin classes – FOX takes off – FOX stands for Future Onboard Experience and will be Lufthansa’s new long-haul service starting May 6. The new service concept represents one of the largest investments in the premium onboard customer experience in the airline’s history. With a clear focus on the guest, all onboard service elements and processes have been redesigned: across all travel classes and on all long-haul flights—with and without Allegris—and on all aircraft types. The new First Class service was launched at the end of March, with Business, Premium Economy, and Economy Class following on May 6.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:51:17 +0000

Ethiopian Airlines has received Best Airline in Africa 2026 APEX Passenger Choice Awards, a recognition that reflects the confidence and loyalty of passengers who continue to choose the airline across its global network. The award highlights Ethiopian Airlines’ steady focus on delivering a smooth, comfortable, and dependable travel experience, from the moment passengers book their flights to the time they reach their destinations. Consistently strong service, onboard comfort, and operational reliability have all played a role in meeting the changing expectations of today’s travelers.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:49:48 +0000

Emirates is marking a near-full return to operations, with 96% of its global network now restored, following a period of disruption. In the past weeks, the airline has progressively resumed services across the Americas, Europe, Africa, West Asia, the Middle East/GCC, the Far East and Australasia. Today, the airline operates to 137 destinations across 72 countries, with over 1,300 weekly frequencies, representing 75% of pre-disruption capacity. The airline is offering more flights, more seats and more options each day while reaffirming Dubai’s position as a vital hub through which global travel moves.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:47:48 +0000

The American Airlines team is doing everything we can to support Spirit Airlines customers and team members affected by Spirit’s immediate wind-down of operations. We are in touch with the Administration, including the Department of Transportation, on steps we are taking to help mitigate the impact on the communities Spirit serves and the traveling public. To help customers whose travel may be disrupted, we immediately put rescue fares into place on Spirit routes where American also offers nonstop service. American serves 70 of the 72 airports Spirit presently serves, and 67 of the specific routes Spirit currently operates. We are also reviewing opportunities to add additional capacity — including utilizing larger aircraft and adding flights on critical routes — to support as many affected passengers as possible.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:45:27 +0000

Singapore Airlines (SIA) customers will enjoy an enhanced in-flight Wi-Fi experience from the first quarter of 2027, with the progressive introduction of Starlink’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite‑based broadband service on board SIA’s Airbus A350-900 long‑haul (LH), A350-900 ultra‑long‑range (ULR), and A380 aircraft.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:43:24 +0000

Park Hyatt Sydney has partnered with iconic Australian chocolate biscuit brand Tim Tam to launch a limited-edition Afternoon Tea, available on weekends from 10 May to 28 June 2026. Set against the sweeping views of Sydney Harbour, the collaboration reimagines the hotel’s signature Afternoon Tea with a playful and indulgent twist. The bespoke menu features a thoughtful selection of handcrafted pastries, classic savoury favourites including Australian staples such as beef pie and sausage rolls and freshly baked scones, alongside a series of Tim Tam-inspired delights.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:40:54 +0000

To mark National Walking Month, Serenity Holidays is showcasing its range of walking focused holidays in Corsica and Cape Verde through its specialist brands, Corsican Places and Cape Verde Experience. Each offers accommodation across the islands, supporting more active and immersive travel experiences with the help of its expert local teams. With routes ranging from rugged mountain hikes and gentle coastal walks to jaw dropping ravines and volcanic craters, both destinations offer exceptional opportunities for travellers seeking immersive, active holidays in striking natural surroundings, combining scenery, culture and flexibility.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:36:47 +0000

Just twenty minutes north of Phuket International Airport on a quieter, lesser-known stretch of coastline, Baba Beach Club Natai presents a more discerning alternative to the island’s conventional beach party destinations. Set on Natai Beach, where long sections of shoreline remain uninterrupted, the resort combines direct access to the Andaman Sea with a level of space and privacy rarely found in Phuket, while remaining within easy reach of the island’s established scene.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:32:52 +0000

SriLankan Airlines led with two wins in the Airline Award category for South Asia, securing both Best Overall Passenger Experience and Most Improved Airline at the PAX International Readership Awards 2026 held recently in Hamburg, Germany. The awards celebrate the industry’s best and brightest, with winners determined by votes from PAX’s global readership. The Best Overall Passenger Experience – South Asia award recognises an airline that delivers an exceptional onboard experience to passengers across multiple service areas, including meal service, inflight entertainment and seating. At SriLankan Airlines, this entails meticulous planning at every stage of the passenger journey, supported by collaboration among multiple teams and continuous monitoring and refinement.
at Tue, 05 May 2026 06:30:02 +0000

The Caribbean Tourism Organization’s Sustainable Tourism Conference wrapped up on a high note last week in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, bringing together tourism leaders from across the region and beyond under the theme “Tourism in Full Color: Integrating Blue, Green, Orange and Beyond Economies into Sustainable Planning and Development.” Hosted by the Belize Tourism Board and the Ministry of Tourism, Youth, Sports and Diaspora Relations, the conference provided a dynamic platform for dialogue, innovation and collaboration.
at Mon, 04 May 2026 16:44:05 +0000

As the Caribbean prepares for a busy spring and summer tourism calendar, Colin James, Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, says the destination is in advanced stages of readiness to host and capitalize on back-to-back editions of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace, May 12-15, at the American University of Antigua. Speaking with the Caribbean Tourism Authority, James emphasized the coordinated national effort behind the preparations, noting that public and private sector teams have been working closely to deliver a seamless and impactful experience. Planning spans all aspects of the event, from the structure of the business-to-business meetings to curated opening and closing events designed to showcase the destination. Beyond facilitating commercial exchanges between buyers and suppliers, the strategy includes immersing visiting media, tour operators and MICE planners in the Antigua and Barbuda experience to strengthen their ability to promote the destination globally.
at Mon, 04 May 2026 16:41:04 +0000

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has unveiled the winners of the 2026 Caribbean Sustainable Tourism Awards, spotlighting top-tier innovation in the region’s journey toward sustainable and regenerative tourism. Honorees from Belize, Guyana, Jamaica and Turks and Caicos Islands were recognized for their leadership in pioneering sustainable tourism practices that protect the Caribbean’s natural and cultural assets. Established in 2000, the awards honor individuals, organizations and destinations driving positive change through environmental stewardship, community empowerment, cultural preservation and climate resilience. This year’s winners underscore the Caribbean’s continued leadership in building a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector.
at Mon, 04 May 2026 16:38:13 +0000

A total of 21.3 million seats will be removed from the U.S. aviation market following Spirit Airlines’ announcement to end operations on Saturday, May 2, creating a significant impact on air connectivity across the United States—particularly within the low-cost segment and key domestic routes—according to an analysis by Data Appeal and Mabrian (Almawave-Almaviva Group). The vast majority—91.3% of this capacity—corresponds to domestic routes, while the remaining seats were allocated to international services connecting the U.S. mainly with Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
at Mon, 04 May 2026 15:01:38 +0000

Radisson Hotel Group’s 2025 Responsible Business Report demonstrates how the Group is turning its Net Zero transformation into real, measurable progress across its hotels and operations, and cares for people and communities. In a rapidly evolving operating environment shaped by shifting guest expectations, climate risk, and increasing regulatory requirements, sustainability continues to guide the Group’s strategic direction. Radisson Hotel Group remains committed to supporting careers and communities, as well as achieving Net Zero by 2050. The Group focuses on strengthening the long-term competitiveness of its hotels and owners through sustainability and contributes to the transition toward a low-carbon hospitality sector.
at Mon, 04 May 2026 10:09:21 +0000