eTurboNews:

The travel and tourism industry has witnessed a massive 41% year-on-year (YoY) decline in deal activity from 475 deals announced during January-May 2022 to 282* during the first five of months of 2023.

The decline in deal activity in the industry indicates dampened sentiments and cautious approach of investors. The ongoing uncertainties and impact of the geopolitical tensions, inflation and recession fears have forced deal makers to adopt a more conservative approach.

All the deal types under coverage registered decline in volume. For instance, merger and acquisitions (M&A) deals volume decreased by 43% while the number of venture financing deals and private equity deals YoY declined by 34% and 44%, respectively, during January to May 2023.

The industry also witnessed a substantial YoY decline in deal activity across most of the regions worldwide during the period.

North America experienced a decline of 48% in deals volume during January to May 2023 compared to the same period during the previous year while Europe, Asia-Pacific and South and Central America regions registered decline of 49%, 27% and 36%, respectively.

Meanwhile, deals volume for the Middle East and Africa region remained unchanged.

The US, the UK, India, France, Australia and Japan witnessed significant YoY decline of 48%, 48%, 33%, 7%, 29% and 54%, respectively, in deals volume during January to May 2023.

On the other hand, easing of travel restrictions seems to be encouraging Chinese travelers. As a result, China stood out as a notable exception and registered a 19% YoY growth in the number of deals announced during the period.

*Mergers & acquisitions, private equity, and venture financing deals.

Note: Historic data may change in case some deals get added to previous months because of a delay in disclosure of information in the public domain.

Read more: Travel and Tourism Deal Activity Plummets 41%

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One of the first things IMEX Frankfurt attendees will notice online and when they arrive at the show at Messe Frankfurt next week is that some serious shape-shifting has taken place.

The IMEX team has been working hard behind the scenes for nearly 18 months to design and debut a new visual treatment – a brand refresh – set to go live on Monday 22 May.

Scrutiny of honest critics

The brand review process was conducted by IMEX’s talented inhouse design team led by Design Manager, Anna Gyseman. Gyseman was a seminal member of the team that launched Grazia magazine into the UK market. As ‘honest critics’ she successfully recruited ex-colleagues Tony Chambers, former Editor and Creative Director of Wallpaper magazine; Suzanne Sykes, award-winning Creative Director, Graphic Designer and Brand Innovator; and Jonathan Clayton-Jones, Creative Director at the Telegraph Group.

Prior to the redesign, IMEX, like many companies before it, felt its existing identity no longer reflected the company or its live show experiences. Extensive workshopping with staff revealed a strong loyalty to some aspects of the old brand, however, it was agreed those elements representing people (the classic dots) were a legacy to be built on, not thrown away.

Carina Bauer, IMEX Group, CEO explains: “The minute the design team presented the ‘winning’ concept to our staff, we knew they’d nailed it. In clean, contemporary pastel colours derived from our heritage brand, the design embodies the heart, purpose, and business value IMEX stands for. It captures our belief in the positive power of people from all over the world meeting eye to eye, face to face and shaking hands on a business deal or new friendship.

“As with all good designs we tried to ‘break it’ but it stood up to all our tests. It works brilliantly as part of our show experiences and on our websites, signage and more,” Bauer adds.

Inclusive design thinking

Using the latest inclusive design principles, the team created a soft brown tone affectionately called ‘IMEX biscuit’ for use instead of classic white as a background colour. This non-stimulating, neurodiversity-friendly colour makes readability easier for a broader range of people.

First ever sonic logo

Given the importance of online expression for a global brand, IMEX also has a unique sonic logo for the first time. Developed with the help of Brighton, UK-based Buff Motion, the soundtrack cleverly builds anticipation of people coming together for a big event and knowingly embraces the fact that humans the world over celebrate community in the same way – with their hands and voices. See link here.

Carina Bauer sums up: “We’ve brought our brand to life in various ways throughout the show – the atrium at Messe Frankfurt is the focal point for many of our ‘hero’ pieces. Next week’s IMEX Frankfurt is a living showcase for the new look IMEX and we look forward to seeing how people react!”

IMEX’s Design Manager, Anna Gyseman and UX Designer, Oli Bailey will share insights into the design process and journey behind the new branding in: IMEX: Behind the curtain – Event design and measurement on Thursday 25 May at IMEX Frankfurt.

eTurboNews is a media partner for IMEX.

Read more: IMEX to Debut New Brand at IMEX Frankfurt 2023

Copyright: eTurboNews is Travel Industry News - Travel & Tourism Story Telling Exposed

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With nearly 85% of Americans planning summer trips in 2023, travel industry experts compared 100 metro areas across 41 key indicators of budget- and fun-friendliness, to help travelers plan the perfect summer getaway.

The data set ranges from the cost of the cheapest flight to the number of attractions to the average price of a two-person meal.

Compared with other rankings that focus on each destination’s scenic quality, this study focuses primarily on the cost and convenience of traveling to each location as well as its affordability.

However, it does take into account the number of attractions and variety of activities in each destination to ensure visitors will stay busy and entertained throughout the trip.

Top 20 Summer Travel Destinations

1. Atlanta, GA
2. Honolulu, HI
3. Washington, DC
4. Wichita, KS
5. New York, NY
6. Chicago, IL
7. Tampa, FL
8. Orlando, FL
9. Richmond, VA
10. Springfield, MO
11. San Antonio, TX
12. Salt Lake City, UT
13. Greenville, SC
14. Austin, TX
15. Philadelphia, PA
16. Oklahoma City, OK
17. Grand Rapids, MI
18. El Paso, TX
19. Los Angeles, CA
20. Minneapolis, MN

Travel Costs & Hassles

Lowest Costs & Fewest Hassles

1. Santa Rosa, CA
2. Milwaukee, WI
3. Salt Lake City, UT
4. Springfield, MO
5. Dayton, OH

Highest Costs & Most Hassles

96. Cape Coral, FL
97. Lansing, MI
98. Kansas City, MO
99. McAllen, TX
100. Baton Rouge, LA

Local Costs

Lowest Costs

1. Oklahoma City, OK
2. Augusta, GA
3. McAllen, TX
4. Tulsa, OK
5. Springfield, MO

Highest Costs

96. Honolulu, HI
97. Seattle, WA
98. San Diego, CA
99. San Francisco, CA
100. Santa Rosa, CA

Best vs. Worst

• The average flight to a popular summer destination costs $413, lasts 4 hours and 13 minutes and has 0.4 connections.

• The Los Angeles metro area is the most attractive destination on the West Coast and the Washington, D.C. metro area is the most attractive destination on the East Coast.

• Florida and Texas are home to the most top summer destinations in the U.S., each with at least two metro areas in the top 15. Oppositely, California has among the largest number of the unpopular summer destinations, with at least two metro areas.

• The Houston metro area has the lowest nightly rate for a three-star hotel room, $28, which is 9.1 times less expensive than in Portland, the metro area with the highest at $254.

Read more: 2023 Best Summer Travel Destinations in US

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eTurboNews:

A total of 219 deals* were announced in the global Travel and Tourism sector during January to April 2023, which is a 43% decline over 384 deals announced during the same period in 2022.

Deal activity in the travel and tourism sector suffered a significant setback across several key markets and regions as dealmakers seemed to have become cautious amid recession fears, geopolitical tensions, and uncertain economic conditions.

North America, the traditionally dominant region in terms of travel and tourism related deal activity, recorded a massive 50.4% decline in deals volume during January-April 2023 compared to January-April 2022.

Other regions such as Europe, Asia-Pacific and South and Central America also experienced a decline in deal activity by 48.1%, 28.9% and 66.7% during January-April 2023 compared to January-April 2022, respectively. Meanwhile, deal volume for the Middle East and Africa region remained unchanged.

Travel and tourism related deal activity also remained subdued across several key markets. The US, the UK, Japan, France, India, and South Korea saw deals volume decline by 51.1%, 39.5%, 47.6%, 18.2%, 55.6%, and 30%, respectively during January to April 2023 compared to January to April 2022.

Meanwhile, deal activity in China and the Netherlands showcased some improvement.

All the deal types under coverage also witnessed a significant year-on-year decline in volume during January-April 2023. The numbers of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), venture financing, and private equity deals declined by 41.4%, 36.2%, and 62.7% during January-April 2023 compared to January-April 2022, respectively.

*Comprising mergers & acquisitions, private equity, and venture financing deals

Read more: Global Travel and Tourism Deal Activity Down 43%

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The governor of Indonesian tourist island of Bali, Wayan Koster, is apparently quite unhappy with the rising number of foreign visitors, who break the law and have no regard for local culture, as the island continues its recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

If the issue of visitors breaking the law wasn’t addressed, “we will only attract cheap tourists who maybe just eat nasi bungkus [rice dish wrapped in banana leaves or paper], rent motorbikes, and break [traffic laws], and, lastly, steal from ATMs,” the governor said.

As the result of his displeasure with misbehaving visitors from overseas, the governor has proposed instituting a quota system, that would require foreign holidaymakers, hoping to vacation on Bali, to register for their trip one year in advance.

New long-term system would require foreign travelers to register one year before their planned visit to Bali and to wait their turn to visit.

“We will no longer welcome mass tourism. We will restrict tourist numbers by implementing a quota system. If there is a quota, then people will have to queue. Those who want to come next year, can sign up from now. That’s the system we want to apply,” Koster said.

Bali governor already announced plans in March to prohibit foreign tourists from renting motorbikes on the island following a series of incidents in which foreigners violated traffic rules. He suggested that under new rules that are set to come into force this year, tourists would only be allowed to drive cars rented from travel agents.

Koster has also asked the Indonesian government to cancel a visa-on-arrival policy for Ukrainians and Russians, who flocked to Bali for most of last year to escape Russia’ war of aggression against Ukraine, citing concerns that citizens from the two countries were violating local laws, overstaying their visas, and illegally working as hairdressers, tour guides, and taxi drivers.

Bali, once known as a laid-back surfing destination, has recently experienced a sharp spike in tourism, with numbers surging to over 300,000 visitors a month since the beginning of this year.

The island has particularly attracted a vast number of lifestyle bloggers, yoga instructors, and other online content creators from overseas.

The sudden surge in visitors has led to tensions with locals, who have complained of increased traffic, pollution, and an apparent lack of respect for local Hindu traditions and culture.

Read more: Enough Already: Bali to Start Capping Number of Tourists

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The National Limousine Association (NLA) – an organization responsible for and dedicated to representing the interests of the chauffeured transportation industry at the global, national, state and local levels – held its advocacy event in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. Meeting with over 90 members of Congress representing 24 states, the association and 53 of its members discussed issues and policy impacting the small business owners throughout the industry, as well as the interests of the corporate traveler.

“Advocacy has been the cornerstone of the NLA for over two decades,” said NLA President Robert Alexander. “It was a privilege to unite with my fellow members this week for the association’s 23rd Day on the Hill, one of our most well-attended advocacy events to date. We were grateful for the opportunity to speak with elected officials and have our voices heard on critical issues that affect the small businesses in the chauffeured transportation industry. Thank you to the numerous policymakers who took the time to meet with us and engage in a productive dialogue around congestion taxes in New York and cities across the country; fair treatment at the airport curb in the upcoming FAA Reauthorization; and fixes to tax policy and administration that harm small businesses.”

On Tuesday afternoon, NLA members heard from Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Anti-Congestion Tax Caucus and Problem Solvers Caucus. He discussed his concerns over the tax and how it would not actually reduce congestion; it would merely move more pollution to outer boroughs heavily populated by minorities and lower income families. Congressman Gottheimer said congestion pricing would devastate critically important sectors like the limo industry and expressed his commitment to fighting against it and working with the caucus to do everything he can.

Association members also participated in numerous educational sessions on the industry’s most pressing policy issues as well as best practices on how to effectively lobby Congress. On Tuesday evening, the NLA heard from Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, (R-PA), co-chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, who gave a speech and engaged with members about the industry’s key policy issues and concerns.

Fifty-three NLA members met with over 90 local Senators, Representatives and their key staff members. The association urged Members of Congress to cosponsor H.R. 1759, the Economic Impact of Tolling Act, to prevent the Department of Transportation from authorizing congestion pricing plans without first completing and publishing an economic impact analysis. Additional requests included incorporating new grant assurances into the upcoming FAA Reauthorization to apply principles of fairness on the curb side of the airport; urging the International Revenue Service Administrator to take immediate corrective action and prioritize Employee Retention Tax Credit processing; and restoring 100% bonus depreciation for the 2023 tax-year and beyond.

Read more: NLA Voices Top Travel Concerns on Capitol Hill

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The global business travel industry continues working its way toward a forecasted $1.158 trillion in travel spending in 2023 – but economics only tell part of the story. Even as the industry gains momentum, new developments and approaches are anticipated to shape the path ahead.

For the travel industry, New Distribution Capability (NDC) marks a paradigm-shifting approach in airline retailing, access to fares, and what it means for travel buyers and the business travel landscape at large. Rebuilding the travel and hospitality industry workforce and fostering the next generation of industry professionals is also underway. And at a time when so much has changed, so has the state of the business traveler’s experience, especially when faced with disruption.

These three key drivers are explored in the Q2 2023 Business Travel Outlook Poll released today. Industry analysts surveyed over 800 business travel buyers, suppliers, and industry professionals around the world, marking the 31st poll in its long-running series.

Business travel is constantly evolving, and the latest poll highlights the top-of-mind developments and issues for the business travel industry and business travelers alike. Implementing new retailing models, rebuilding the workforce, and elevating the employee travel experience are some of the key drivers that are shaping the collective future of business travel.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this latest poll:

The Evolution of Airline Retailing

The industry weighs in on recent airline efforts to expedite NDC

• Survey respondents were asked about a U.S. airline’s announcement to travel agencies that over 40% of its content and new offerings would only be available through “modern” retailing channels including NDC. Of those surveyed, 47% say they do not support this effort to expedite NDC. A third (34%) say they did support it, and 20% aren’t familiar with NDC.

• Specific to travel buyers, 60% say they do not support the effort compared to 36% of travel suppliers and travel management companies (TMCs).

• Regionally, respondents in Europe (44%) and APAC (43%) are more likely to support the effort versus those in North America

Is NDC implementation moving too fast?

• Over half of travel buyers (53%) say some airlines are trying to roll out NDC too quickly and have not given third-party intermediaries enough time to develop the needed technology and processes.

• A third of buyers (29%) say intermediaries have had enough time and should be ready to efficiently handle and service NDC bookings.

• Travel buyers in North America (59%) are more likely than those in Europe (42%) to feel airlines are moving too fast.

• European buyers (49%) are more likely than North America buyers (23%) to feel intermediaries should be ready by now.
  Travel managers in a three-way split regarding NDC impact

• One-third (36%) of buyers say their travel program has been negatively impacted by moves from carriers overall to implement NDC, whereas 29% say it has not been impacted.

• An additional third (28%) say they are unaware of any impact, and only 6% say NDC efforts by carriers have positively impacted their travel program.

A view of the early days of NDC’s implementation

• Half of buyers (48%) say they have not yet started to implement NDC.

• Among travel buyers, a few say they have experienced some (7%) or many (7%) challenges in their NDC process, while even fewer say their transition has largely gone smoothly (3%) or without any challenges (1%).

• However, one in four buyers (25%) say it’s too early to assess how their implementation is going.

• Six in 10 buyers (61%) say they have not, nor intend to, budget for additional NDC-related servicing costs, while 23% say they haven’t done so but their budgeting process is underway.

One-third of intermediary stakeholders cite NDC implementation challenges

• Among intermediary stakeholders, including TMCs, online booking tools (OBTs), global distribution systems (GDSs), one-third (36%) say they have experienced at least “some” or “many challenges” in distributing NDC content to their corporate clients.

More engagement is needed among NDC stakeholders

• Eight in 10 travel buyers surveyed (81%) say they need more information on NDC.

• European buyers (29%) are more likely than those in North America (15%) to say they do not need more NDC information.

• Buyer sentiment is mixed when it comes to how their TMC is preparing them for NDC. Half of buyers (50%) do not feel their TMC has sufficient NDC information and/or is not sharing their plans for implementation

Rebuilding the Business Travel Workforce

Challenges in staffing cited by over half of industry respondents

• Six in 10 (58%) of all respondents report they continue to experience labor shortages and/or recruitment challenges in some capacity. However, a third (36%) say they are not experiencing significant difficulties in the areas of staffing or recruitment.

• The positions respondents say their company most need include Technology Development: 31%; Entry Level / Operations: 26%; Sales and Account Management: 24%; and Travel Consultants / Agents: 17%.

• When asked which industry sectors have the biggest staffing challenges, respondents most frequently cite hotels (59%), TMCs (43%), restaurants (37%), airports (28%), and aviation (27%).

Top barriers to building a sustainable industry workforce

• When asked to rank five of the biggest barriers facing the global business travel industry in achieving a robust, diverse, and sustainable workforce, the top selections are unattractive salary and benefits (69%); lack of qualified candidates (50%); hiring and training new professionals from outside the industry (46%); unappealing job requirements (46%); and lack of investment in retaining and talent and professional development (46%).

The Current State for Business Travelers and the Industry

Concerns and realities of the business traveler experience

• When asked to rate their recent business travel experience, most respondents say it was somewhat (31%) or very (29%) pleasant.

• However, half of those surveyed say concerns about travel disruptions – such as canceled or delayed flights, long security lines, crowded airports, or long bag check lines – has somewhat (41%) or greatly (9%) reduced their willingness to travel for work.

• Travel managers most frequently hear business traveler complaints from employees about delayed (76%) or canceled (72%) flights, long call wait times with TMCs (62%) or travel suppliers (52%), and poor hotel service quality (46%).
  The latest status of global travel spending and bookings

• Travel buyers estimate their company’s current domestic business travel bookings have returned to 72% of 2019 pre-pandemic levels (up from 67% in January 2023 poll.) Buyers also estimate their company’s current domestic business travel spend is 74% of 2019 levels (up from 68% in January.)

• International business travel also continues to make its return. Travel buyers estimate their international bookings have recovered to 63% (up from 54% in January), and their current spending is back to 66% (up from 58%).

Methodology: A total of 803 responses were received from across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific for the poll which was fielded April 10-21, 2023.

Read more: Key Drivers to Shape the Path Ahead for Global Business Travel

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eTurboNews:

A recent survey of 3,000 employees across the United States has shed light on the extent to which workers are concerned about the growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on their job security.

The research reveals that almost half (43%) of workers in the Tourism industry are worried about the possibility of AI making their profession redundant.

Surprisingly, workers in the technology industry were the most concerned, with 64% of respondents indicating their worry. This paradox can be explained by the very nature of the tech industry itself. Workers in tech are often highly knowledgeable about the latest advancements in AI and understand the potential for automation to take over many tasks that were previously performed by humans. This can lead to a heightened sense of vulnerability and uncertainty about their own job security.

Moreover, the pace of technological change in the tech sector is faster than in other industries, and the introduction of AI systems has already resulted in the automation of many jobs in areas such as customer service and data analysis. This has only added to the anxieties of tech workers who see the writing on the wall and fear for their own futures.

The least concerned workers were those in the public service sector, where only 19% of respondents expressed concern. While this result may come as a surprise to some, it highlights the resilience and stability of public sector jobs and the (perhaps misplaced) belief that they are less likely to be impacted by technological changes. The public sector, which encompasses government agencies, schools, and other organizations, is often seen as a bastion of stability, providing a secure and stable career path for employees. One reason for the low level of concern among public sector workers may be the perception that the government is less likely to adopt new technologies, including AI, as quickly as the private sector. Public sector organizations often have more bureaucratic processes and regulations in place, which can slow down the implementation of new technologies. This means that public sector workers may feel that their jobs are less vulnerable to automation and other forms of technological change.

In the hospitality industry, 59% of workers expressed concern about AI’s impact on their jobs. Healthcare workers were not far behind, with 44% indicating their worry. In the legal industry, 52% of workers expressed concern, while in retail, 43% of respondents expressed worry.

The finance industry saw 42% of workers expressing concern, while 38% of workers in the real estate industry indicated their worry about AI’s impact on their jobs. IT workers were also concerned, with 52% indicating their worry, as were those in education (44%) and engineering (44%). In the media industry, 52% of journalists expressed concern, while 41% of energy employees indicated their worry.

Overall, the research revealed that over 1 in 3 (35%) Americans are worried about the possibility of A.I. making their professions redundant. When analyzed by state, the survey found that workers in New Hampshire are the most concerned about AI’s impact on their jobs, with 71% of respondents indicating their concern.

Conversely, the state with the least concern was Nebraska, where only 17% of respondents expressed worry about AI’s impact on their job security. This disparity may be due to the fact that Nebraska is a traditional farming state, and agriculture has yet to be significantly impacted by AI.

Lastly, the results of the survey also showed that 36% of workers admit to using AI technology in their day-to-day jobs to make their work easier.

The results of this survey provide a valuable insight into American workers’ attitudes towards AI and its impact on their job security. It’s clear that workers across the country are concerned about the impact of AI on their jobs, and industries must take proactive steps to support and reskill their employees to ensure they remain competitive in the AI-driven job market.

Read more: Tourism Workers Fear Artificial Intelligence Could Take Their Jobs

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Challenging global economic conditions and their implications reflected their impact on the travel and tourism sector’s deal activity in the first month of 2023.

A total of 38 deals (comprising merger and acquisition, venture financing and private equity deals) were announced in the sector globally in January 2023, which is a decline of 42.4% in terms of deals volume compared to the previous month.

Deal-making sentiment in the global travel and tourism sector appears to have been heavily impacted by current geopolitical tensions and recession fears.

Deal volume in several leading economies experienced considerable slowdown, which contributed to the overall decline.

An analysis of financial deals database revealed that key markets such as the USA, the UK, China, Australia, and Japan experienced a decline in deals volume in January 2023 compared to the previous month.

As deal-making sentiment took a hit in most of the key markets, all the deal types under coverage also experienced a decline.

There was a decline of 36.8%, 50% and 50% in the number of merger and acquisition deals, venture financing deals, and private equity deals announced during January 2023 compared to the previous month, respectively.

Read more: Travel & Tourism deal activity down by 42% in January 2023

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The US National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) has released data for December 2022, showing that international visitors spent nearly $16.5 billion on travel to, and tourism-related activities within, the United States, an increase of nearly 49 percent compared to December 2021 and the single highest month for US tourism-related exports since February 2020—the onset of the global pandemic.

Americans spent more than $15.5 billion traveling abroad, yielding a balance of trade surplus of $932 million for the month.

A summation of the twelve months in 2022 (preliminary data, subject to future revisions) suggests that international visitors spent nearly $162.6 billion on U.S. travel and tourism-related goods and services, nearly doubling (up 96%) the amount spent in 2021.

International visitors injected, on average, more than $445 million a day into the U.S. economy in 2022.

Composition of Monthly Spending (Travel Exports)

Travel Spending

• Purchases of travel and tourism-related goods and services by international visitors traveling in the United States totaled $9.1 billion in December 2022 (compared to $5.4 billion in December 2021), an increase of 68 percent when compared to the previous year.
• For a pre-pandemic perspective, travel receipts totaled $11.8 billion in December 2019. These goods and services include food, lodging, recreation, gifts, entertainment, local transportation in the United States, and other items incidental to foreign travel.
• Travel receipts accounted for 55 percent of total U.S. travel and tourism exports in December 2022.

Passenger Fare Receipts

• Fares received by U.S. carriers from international visitors totaled $3.2 billion in December 2022 (compared to $2.0 billion in December 2021), an increase of 62 percent when compared to the previous year.
• For a pre-pandemic perspective, the United States exported nearly $3.4 billion in passenger air transportation services in December 2019. These receipts are expenditures by foreign residents on international flights of U.S. air carriers.
• Passenger fare receipts accounted for 20 percent of total U.S. travel and tourism exports in December 2022.

Medical/Education/Short-Term Worker Spending

Read more: Foreign visitors spent $16.5 billion on US travel in December 2022

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There are various ways to experience luxury, whether that be heading on a vacation to stay in a five-star resort or perhaps purchasing high quality jewelry that will last a lifetime.

New study has discovered the top 10 most luxury obsessed areas in the US, after the researchers analyzed online data available for multiple search terms including ‘luxury vacation’, ‘luxury jewelry’ and ‘luxury hotels‘ in each area.  

Google Trends data was used to discover the level of interest in each area on a score out of 100 for multiple search terms.

The scores for all nine terms in every area were given an average to determine which were the most luxury obsessed. 
 
 Search terms used: 

‘luxury goods’ 
‘luxury brands’ 
‘luxury jewelry’ 
‘luxury hotels’ 
‘luxury cars’ 
‘luxury travel’ 
‘luxury apartments’ 
‘luxury vacation’ 
‘luxury property’ 

10 most luxury obsessed areas in the US:

Area – Average Luxury Score

1. Washington, D.C. – 78.71
2. New York – 75.76
3. Florida – 60.89
4. New Jersey – 60.22
5. Connecticut – 59.11
6. Georgia – 57.78
7. Virginia – 57.78
8. California – 57.33
9. Maryland – 56.11
10. Massachusetts – 54.89

Taking the crown for the most luxury-obsessed area is Washington, D.C, with an average luxury score of 78.71. Not only did it take the top spot overall, but it earned a score of 100 for several search terms, including luxury apartments, hotels, brands, and vacations. 
 
New York takes home a silver medal in second place, earning a final score of 75.56. The city is no stranger to luxury, due to the abundance of extravagant hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and high-fashion stores – we often see this showcased in classic movies with spectacular hotels including the Plaza and the Ritz.
 
Boasting third place in the list is Florida, which has a luxury-obsessed score of 60.89. Citizens of the Sunshine State appear to be on the hunt for luxury property more than any other state, as well as scoring particularly high for luxury cars. 
 
New Jersey may not have made it to the podium like its neighbor New York, but it does take the fourth spot in the list with a score of 60.22. Given its close proximity to the Big Apple, residents of New Jersey don’t need to head too far for a taste of luxury. 
 
Following in fifth place is Connecticut, yet another Eastern state to make the list. Connecticut takes a final score of 59.11, but the study reflects that the state earned a high score of 77 for searches for luxury vacations. 
 
In joint sixth place is Georgia and Virginia, both taking an average luxury-obsessed score of 57.78. Georgia earned the top score for luxury cars searches, while both states have high scores for luxury goods. 
 
California takes the seventh spot and is the only area outside of the Eastern region to make the list with a score of 57.33. The state has many luxurious spots itself, including Beverly Hill’s Rodeo Drive filled with high-end designer stores, encouraging the love for the ‘finer things in life’.
 
Placing eighth on the list is Maryland, earning a luxury-obsessed score of 56.11. Like Georgia, Maryland also has a keen interest in luxury goods with a high score for the Google search term. 
 
Last but certainly not least is Massachusetts, taking the ninth spot with a luxury score of 54.89. Boston, the capital of the state, is one of the most expensive cities in the U.S where you’ll find incredibly luxurious apartments. 

There is no doubt that Americans desire a taste of a lavish lifestyle, but one thing for certain is that the East coast has a particularly keen interest in luxury with nine of the areas in the ranking belonging to this region.

However, with one of the areas in the top 10 being on the West coast, it will be interesting to see if any other nearby areas follow suit and develop a luxury obsession.

Read more: Hotels to jewelry: Most luxury obsessed US destinations

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It would always be difficult for the famous Route 66 to fully live up to the hype, but there is so much more.

While there are thousands of great road trips that people aren’t aware of, this is purely a look at some of the most popular ones.

Top 10 Most Underrated Road Trips 

1. Causeway Coastal Route, United Kingdom

% of ‘good’ reviews: 98.1%

Annual search volume: 23,700

Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast is one of the UK’s most rugged and raw beauty spots. One of the best ways to experience the coast is on this scenic drive from Belfast to Derry. Despite 98.1% of the journey’s Tripadvisor reviews being positive, the road trip had just 23,700 searches in the last 12 months.

To put that into perspective, the famous Route 66 trip had over 6.5 million searches in the same period. This is surprising considering the Causeway Coastal Route’s fame. The trip takes in many popular sites such as the Glens of Antrim, as well as padding well-known filming locations from Game of Thrones.

2. Route des Crêtes, France

% of ‘good’ reviews: 98.5%

Annual search volume: 131,200

Another lesser-known route is the Route des Crêtes in eastern France’s Vosges Mountains. The route runs from Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines to Cernay, through the Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges, reaching an elevation of over 950m. Despite the stunning views and great reviews from those who’ve driven it, this trip was searched just 131,200 times in the last year.

3. Foothills Parkway, United States

% of ‘good’ reviews: 97.5%

Annual search volume: 68,700

There are 2 road trips that are tied in third place, both in the USA. The first is the Foothills Parkway in Tennessee. As the name suggests, the road stretches from the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and runs to the Tennessee Valley. The route provides spectacular views of both, and it is actually still under construction, with new stretches constantly being added.

3. Lamar Valley, United States

% of ‘good’ reviews: 97.4%

Annual search volume: 68,000

Located in the northeastern corner of Yellowstone National Park, the Lamar Valley offers some of the most impressive scenery in the country. Despite this, the route saw only 68,000 people searching for it in the last year.

The area is often referred to as ‘America’s Serengeti’, with lots of wildlife species to spot such as wolves, bison, pronghorn, badgers, bears, and more.

World’s Most Underrated Road Trips 

1. Nandi Hills, India

% of ‘good’ reviews: 81.7%

Annual search volume: 1.96 million

Read more: Best road trips in the world

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With travel restrictions easing all over the world, it’s becoming easier to explore the world and check out what some of the coolest cities around the globe have to offer.

From the bustling nightlife of vibrant metropolises like Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro to the spectacular cuisine and stylish interiors of the cafes and restaurants of Paris and New York, each city offers something authentic and unique.

But which is the trendiest city in the world? Industry experts have looked into their popularity on social media, the number of people wanting to move there, the number of yoga studios and the local food and drink scene to crown the coolest city for young people to visit in 2022.

The 10 Trendiest Cities in the World 

The most viewed city on TikTok…

London

Coming first as the most viewed city on TikTok is London with over 30 billion views on the platform. The city is teeming with creative energy, and aspiring creators are eager to make their mark on London’s rich cultural landscape through social media so it’s no surprise it’s the most popular city for TikTok.

30.5 billion TikTok views

The most picturesque city…

London

London takes the top spot as the most photogenic city in the index, just over 20 million posts ahead of Paris in second place. The city is overflowing with beautiful historic landmarks and stunning landscapes as well as cutting-edge architecture, interior design and street art, making it the perfect backdrop for your holiday snaps.

156.5 billion Instagram posts

The most in-demand city…

Singapore

Singapore ranks as the city with the most desired city to move to. The city boasts the highest quality of life in Asia, thanks to a great work-life balance. Singapore is also a multicultural Mecca teeming with art and culture. The city is perfect if you want to immerse yourself at the forefront of culture in Asia, as it’s packed with art galleries and cutting-edge architecture.

96.000 Annual searches

The youngest city…

Mexico City

One of the fastest-growing cities in our index, Mexico City has the highest proportion of young people at just over a quarter of its population. Thanks to its youthful population, the city is at the forefront of culture with a thriving contemporary art scene and some of the most vibrant nightlife in the world.

25.8% Of people under 15

The best city for vegan restaurants…

Edinburgh

If you’re looking for vegan options, the Scottish capital is the best city in our index with nearly 120 for every 100,000 people. Edinburgh is home to some of the most exciting vegan restaurants in the UK and boasts cutting-edge plant-based cuisine that would please even the most discerning palates.

118.9 Per 100,000people

The best city for breweries…

Edinburgh

Edinburgh also comes top for breweries per 100,000 people, making it the perfect destination for craft beer lovers. The city hosts several beer festivals throughout the year and is home to numerous brewery taprooms, so you’ll never miss an opportunity to sample some of the most exciting and experimental beers from Edinburgh and beyond.

1.1 Per 100,000people

The best city for independent coffee shops…

Edinburgh

Taking the top spot for independent coffee shops per 100,000 people, Edinburgh is the ideal destination for coffee aficionados. The city is home to hundreds of artisan coffee houses offering cozy atmospheres, exciting brunch options and of course some of the best coffee in the UK.

107.6 Per 100,000people

The best city for yoga studios…

Chicago

Yoga has skyrocketed in popularity over recent years, with many people discovering its benefits as a tool to reduce stress. So, if you’re looking to relax and unwind during your trip, Chicago is the perfect destination with the city’s fitness scene offering the highest proportion of yoga studios in our index.

9.0 Per 100,000people

Read more: Trendiest cities to visit this year

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But, during your search to purchase a car online, you may realize that you do not know which auction houses have online car auctions and which auctions are the best. So, how can you figure out which auction is best for you?

We took all of the hard work off your plate to help you figure out which online car auction is going to be the best match for you. No matter what kind of car you are looking for, these auction sites will give you lots of options to choose from.

What Kinds of Cars Go to Auction?

When it comes to car auctions, there are many things to consider. One of the first questions people ask is: “What kinds of cars are available at these online auctions?”

The amazing thing is that, whatever kind of car you are looking to purchase, you can find an online car auction that will help you find your next ride.

Wholesale Dealer Auctions

Mostly available to dealers with a license and sometimes open to the public, a wholesale dealer auction is where many car dealers get their inventory and sell their inventory. These auctions typically consist of cars that have been traded into a dealer, but the dealer does not want to go through selling the car on their lot.

The great thing is that you can find some cheap cars at these auctions because dealers want to purchase the cars at the lowest possible price to be able to sell them and make a profit. These cars can range, though, from cars that need a little work to ones that are in perfect physical and working condition.

Specialty Auctions

Maybe you are a little pickier with what you might want in a car. Or maybe you are looking for the perfect classic car to purchase and keep as an investment. If so, then specialty auctions are the way to go.

Specialty auctions focus on a specific niche and tend to be full of rare vehicles.

Cars and Bids is a specialty auction website that is full of non-generic vehicles. It was started by YouTube creator Doug DeMuro to help car enthusiasts buy and sell cars from each other.

There are also classic car auctions like Mecum that have a great selection. They may have your dream car, but if you are looking for cheap cars, then Mecum is not for you as their cars are often on the expensive side.

Salvage Auctions

If you want to save a ton of money, then auto salvage auctions are the place to be. As long as you are willing to put in a little work, then you can save a lot of money while still getting a quality vehicle.

But, what is a salvage car? When a vehicle has been damaged and the cost of repairs is more than the car’s worth, insurance companies will usually issue a salvage title to the car.  

Some of these cars may be simply junk cars that can only be used for parts, but others may only need minor repairs to be perfectly functional and looking great.

Best Car Auctions to Check Out

Now that you know what kind of online car auctions there are, you may be wondering: “What are the best online auctions?”

Here are four online car auctions that we think are the best and will provide you with great customer service:

A Better Bid

As the US’ leading online salvage auction platform, with over 300,000 cars for sale each day, A Better Bid is a 100% online car auction site that has tons of salvage, wrecked, clean and repairable cars at your disposal. 

As a registered Copart broker, A Better Bid gives you access to cars that only car dealers typically have access to. You can buy cars where the dealers buy them, cutting out the middlemen, and saving thousands of dollars.

Richmond Auto Auction

If you are on the eastern seaboard in the US, Richmond Auto Auction, located in Richmond, VA, holds weekly auctions in-person and online on Fridays at 8:30 am. While dealers with licenses can purchase cars at Richmond AA, they also have public sales.

Most of the vehicles for sale here are repossessed cars or government vehicles. If you prefer to attend the auction in person, you can physically inspect the vehicles on Thursday or early Friday mornings before the auctions.

Manheim

Manheim bills itself as “the world’s largest wholesale marketplace.” Each year, they sell 6 million used vehicles—totaling almost $60 billion in value.

Manheim has taken condition reports and research to the next level with its AI-enhanced condition reports and even provides reports for other online auctions. 

Manheim also offers lots of post-sale services including vehicle storage and reconditioning.

Barrett Jackson

Maybe you are in the market for a classic Chevelle, GTO, or ‘Cuda. If you have the bank account to support it, Barrett Jackson is the premier classic car auction site. 

For over 50 years now, Barrett Jackson has been selling some of the best classic cars that money can buy. With auctions all over the country and online bidding available, you can find an auction near you or purchase your dream car from the other side of the country.

Conclusion

No matter what kind of vehicle you are looking for, there are plenty of options available to help you purchase your next car online. With our list of best sites, we are confident that you will be able to score a fantastic deal on your dream car without leaving the comfort of your home.

Read more: Best Online Car Auctions

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France is set to cement itself as the most visited country in the world, with estimated 93.7 million international travelers the country will attract by 2025.

The forecast by the travel industry analysts places the country ahead of competitor, Spain, which overtook France in 2021.

According to the latest report, France held the title of most visited country in the world prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, welcoming 88.1 million visitors in 2019.

However, it was overtaken by Spain in 2021.

Having attracted 66.6 million international visitors in 2022, France is now set to re-claim the title, with the number of international arrivals expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.1% between 2022 and 2025.

Alongside Italy and Spain, France represents a significant segment of the growth in Western Europe.

The country is not only popular with travelers from Europe itself—especially the UK, Germany and Belgium—but it is also popular with visitors from further afield, including China and the United States.

In fact, France is one of the top Western European destinations for US travelers.

Spain received 26.3 million visitors in 2021, overtaking France to become the most visited Western European destination.

By 2025, Spain is expected to attract 89.5 million international visitors (CAGR of 12.2% between 2022 and 2025).

Visitation to France and Spain will remain strong in the years to come, with festivals, culture and gastronomy being a big pull for tourists.

Both countries have a lot to offer visitors, with their own unique cultures, cuisines, and atmospheres.

Both countries are also relatively large, with a diverse and varied landscape, and each country has its own unique coastline.

One of France’s big advantages is its transportation. Travel between major cities in both France and Spain is relatively easy, with high-speed trains connecting most major cities.

One key transportation project in Western Europe is the Ultra Rapid Train line, which is being planned by the European Commission to improve connectivity between Lisbon in Portugal and Helsinki in Finland.

The program involves the construction of an 8,000 km doubletrack high-speed railway network between Lisbon and Helsinki with a loop around the Baltic Sea.

The rail line will pass through, Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, Denmark, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, and Finland.

Read more: France set to be world’s most visited country by 2025

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According to Travel & Tourism market analysts, a total of 1,006 deals* were announced in the global travel and tourism sector during 2022, which indicates a decline of 3.4% over the 1,041 deals announced during the previous year.

Geopolitical tensions and economic challenges seem to have impacted deal-making sentiments for the Travel & Tourism sector in 2022.

Resultantly, deal activity slowed down in several key markets.

For instance, the USA, which also happens to be the top market by deals volume, experienced a 2.8% decline in deal activity in 2022 compared to 2021.

Several other key global markets also experienced a negative shift in deals volume, which contributed to the overall decline.

China, India, Australia and Spain witnessed a decline in deals volume by 5.7%, 25%, 17.9% and 2.9% in 2022, respectively, compared to the previous year.

Meanwhile, the UK, Germany, France, and Japan managed to register growth in deals volume by 15.8%, 33.3%, 3.7% and 10.9% during 2022 compared to 2021, respectively.

Deals under coverage including venture financing and private equity deals witnessed declines of 23.7% and 21.8% during 2022 compared to 2021, respectively, while merger and acquisition deals volume increased by 10.7%.

*Comprising mergers & acquisitions, private equity and venture financing deals.

Read more: Travel and Tourism deal activity dips 3.4% in 2022

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Ultimate Safaris announced that six more Toyotas are making their debut in the company’s fleet of self-drive rental vehicles in Namibia.

According to Ultimate Safaris, the fleet expansion is due to enthusiastic response from its guests arriving in Namibia for the wildlife experience of their lives.

Despite problems in the supply chain for the procurement of its self-drive Toyotas, Ultimate Safaris has overcome this and responded to the positive demand for its new self-drive option of offering no-fuss freedom for adventurous and independent travelers.

Read more: Ultimate Safaris adds more self-drive rental vehicles in Namibia

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To demonstrate steadfast support for its loyal customers during a challenging travel environment, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and National Car rental today announced the extension of several loyalty benefits set to expire soon.

Read more: Elite Tier extensions announced for National and Enterprise

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Canada Jetlines Operations Ltd., the new, all-Canadian, leisure airline, has announced a partnership with Hertz Canada Limited (“Hertz”) as the carrier’s car rental provider.

Read more: Canada Jetlines announces partnership with Hertz

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The European tourism sector successfully endured another challenging summer as worsening inflation and staff shortages threatened recovery. European airlines held up well, with August flight volumes down just 11% relative to 2019. Encouraging data suggests a positive outlook for 2022, with the region expected to recover close to 75% of 2019 inbound travel volumes this year.

This is according to the most recent edition of the ‘European Tourism Trends & Prospects’ quarterly report from the European Travel Commission (ETC), which predicts that Europe’s travel bounce-back will continue in the remaining months of 2022, led by cost-conscious and value-driven travel.

However, the winter will not be without its threats as a looming recession and higher inflation across Europe will weigh on consumer spending and tourism demand, delaying but not derailing recovery. The prolonged Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine and additional travel restrictions and bans for Russian tourists across Europe will also push back the recovery in Eastern Europe.

Commenting following the publication of the report, Luís Araújo, ETC’s President, said: “European tourism is proving exceptionally resilient to inflation. While the cost-of-living crisis is causing many to change their approach to travel, it is not dampening their desire to explore Europe completely. Short-haul travel will be a lifeline for the sector over the next months, as more travellers opt for shorter and closer trips. As we continue to navigate the challenges brought about by global uncertainty, it is crucial to rebuild a sector that keeps sustainability front of mind.”

Low consumer confidence to drive short-haul travel

In the face of economic uncertainty and surging inflation, ETC predicts that travelers will favor short-haul trips, which tend to be more economical. This September, consumer confidence in France hit a nine-year low. Similar trends have also been witnessed in other major source markets, such as the UK and Germany.

Overall, the price of holidays will be a key deciding factor for households as they grapple with having less disposable income. This can be to Europe’s benefit as intra-European holidays, as well as domestic travel, tends to be cheaper than longer-haul alternatives. Short-haul travel currently makes up around 72% of total visits in Europe and is set to grow in popularity for the remainder of the year.

American holidaymakers capitalize on strong US dollar

Long-haul travel into Europe is still significantly depressed, hampered by restrictions and lingering negative sentiment from Asia and the Pacific. The Chinese market, in particular, has shown minimal progress towards a recovery due to the slower removal of travel restrictions.

Not all hope is lost for long-haul travel, however, as transatlantic tourism gets a boost from American holidaymakers benefitting from the strength of the US dollar – which has appreciated around 20% against the euro over the last year.

A strengthened dollar has already proven a lifeline to many European destinations, with the latest data showing that three in five reporting countries have recovered at least 70% of 2019 US travel volumes so far this year. A number of destinations exceeded 2019 travel demand. Turkey (+61%) saw the strongest rebound, followed by Portugal (+17%), Lithuania (+7%), Montenegro (+6%) and Poland (+6%).

Read more: European tourism resilient in face of low consumer confidence

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“While last year’s show was the celebratory ‘coming back together’ the industry craved, this October’s edition was the business-fueled ‘bounce-back’ we’ve all been waiting for.”

Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, sums up last month’s IMEX America as full post-show statistics are released.

The numbers for the show, which took place October 10 – 13 at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, reveal that business is now firmly on an international level with over 4,000 buyers from 69 countries attending. A positive sign for the industry’s health is that both agency and corporate planner numbers, representing 56% and 20% of hosted buyers respectively, were on a par with last year.

The global buyers out in force at the show brought with them substantial budgets – with three quarters having annual budgets of over $1 million and 39% having spending power of $5m+. Many had long-term plans, with RFPs (requests for proposals) and business being placed as far out as 2028. 

As ever, business meetings formed the bedrock of the show, with 62,000 appointments between buyers and suppliers over three days. These comprised individual, group appointments and open-to-all booth presentations.

Over 3,300 exhibiting companies from 180+ countries including Europe, Asia Pacific, North America and the Middle East took part. Many had been unable to attend in 2021 and made a welcome return including Abu Dhabi, Australia, Bahamas, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, Dubai, Greece, Hawaii, Ireland, Switzerland, Turkey and New Zealand.

“From our conversations with buyers and suppliers on-site, we know that this year’s show was characterized by the return of global business and strong business pipelines running as far ahead as 2028”, explains Carina Bauer. “We’ve even had one commentator refer to it as ‘an ironman event’ due to the energy and commitment required to leverage all the opportunities on offer!”

“Our buyers and suppliers have since shared their news and wins from the show. We always love to hear feedback and incorporate it into planning for next year’s edition. None more so than when it takes the form of a heartfelt poem!”

The extract below is from a poem sent to the team by Kip Horton, SVP Strategy at HPN Global and sums up the business-driven buzz and connections felt by many during the show:

Some things take a lot of sweat and some tears 
And you wonder why you have done it for all of these years 
And yet when the project is finally done 
You kinda sorta think ‘hey that was real fun’ 

But it always works out and this year was the case 
Where everyone finished with a smile on their face 
Meeting new friends, crossing paths with the old 
It’s not really about how many things you have sold 

It’s always relationships, made better and strong 
By walking the floor amongst all the throng 
You’re exhausted and tired at the end of the day 
But deep down you wouldn’t want it any other way 

IMEX America returns to Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, October 16 – 19, 2023.  

eTurboNews is a media partner for IMEX.

Read more: Big return for IMEX America: Post-show figures released

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Travel plays valuable role in emotional well-being. We all know that. And if anything, it’s a feeling that has been reaffirmed (over and over!) as we return to a sense of normalcy – in life in general and travel specifically.

The results of a recent survey of 2,000 Americans, who traveled abroad over the last 14 months, proves that travel and emotional well-being go hand-in-hand.

According to the survey, 77 percent of Americans questions have said they felt more like themselves because of their recent travels, while 80 percent said that returning to travel in the past 14 months has been good for their soul and for their well-being.

And the same sentiment holds true towards future travels – after the pause on international travel, 80 percent said they need a vacation in 2023 more than ever before.

Not that travel has been easy over the last year or so – changing COVID-19 restrictions forced some respondents to reschedule (37%), while other dealt with lost luggage (35%) or delayed and cancelled flights (31%).

However, the good news is that even of those who faced issues while traveling, 84 percent said their trip was still completely worth it – and 84 percent said that, despite any difficulties, they’d happily do it all over again if given the chance.

To travel and discover, to explore new places, meet new people, encounter different cultures and experience nature’s wild beauty is in people’s DNA.

Television, movies, social media, books… these were all great substitutes while travel was on pause, but for many Americans getting out in the world and setting out on new adventures is an intrinsic part of who they are.

So, despite some of the challenges that this post-pandemic return to travel has thrown at travelers – the flight delays and cancellations, lost luggage, long line-ups, etc. – the results of the poll show that the joy of 2022 and 2023 travel, and the happiness it brings with it, far outweighs any hiccups we encounter along the way.

Take Your Revenge

Of the 2,000 Americans polled, 66 percent stated to have a desire to “revenge travel” — defined as wanting to travel more, after feeling like they missed out on time and experiences due to the pandemic.

And respondents are making the most of the return to travel; as many travel restrictions have lifted, 57 percent of those surveyed were able to take a “once-in-a-lifetime” adventure in 2022.

For those who did, this included seeing something or someone who won’t be there in 10 years (22%), using a travel agent to take the stress out of traveling (21%) and traveling to where their family is originally from (21%).

But whether it was a “once-in-a-lifetime” adventure or not, the survey found that Americans were generally positive about any travel experience in the past 14 months.

Trust the Pros

When it comes to planning a future getaway – something the majority of respondents have already done (71% have an international trip booked and 65% a domestic trip) – along with recommending people book now to take advantage of many airlines offering no fees for cancelling or changing flights (58%), the next piece of advice they had was to book with a tour operator or travel agent so they can help if something unexpected happens (57%).

What Advice Would Respondents Share, as People Plan Trips?

● Book now, to take advantage of many airlines offering no fees for canceling or changing flights — 58%

● Traveling through a tour operator or a travel agent so they can help if something unexpected happens — 57%

● It’s worth the extra money to fly on an airline without change fees, in case of changing COVID-19 cases — 56%

Read more: Travel is good for the soul

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European Union officials announced that the agreement was reached between representatives from EU member states, the European Parliament, and the European Commission, to require car manufacturers to cut 100% of CO2 emissions by 2035.

The deal would also require a 55% reduction in CO2 emissions for all new vehicles sold from 2030, which exceeds the current target of a 37.5% reduction.

The concluded talks were of the utmost importance, since the European Union member countries, the European Parliament, and the European Commission all must agree when a new law is to be adopted within the EU.

According to EU climate policy chief Frans Timmermans, new regulation is a sign to all that “Europe is embracing the shift to zero-emission mobility.”

New regulation would effectively ban the sale of all new gasoline and diesel-fueled vehicles in the European Union countries starting from that year.

“The European Commission welcomes the agreement reached last night by the European Parliament and Council ensuring all new cars and vans registered in Europe will be zero-emission by 2035,” the Commission stated in a press release issued upon the negotiations’ conclusion.

The newly reached agreement aims “to make the EU’s transport system more sustainable, provide cleaner air for Europeans, and marks an important step in delivering the European Green Deal,” the release added.

However, despite the agreement having been reached between all key negotiators, the timeframe for the measure becoming a law is far clear, since deal is provisionary and now requires formal adoption by both the European Parliament and the EU Council.

Read more: EU to ban gasoline cars from 2035

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The sixth edition of the premier Swahili International Tourism Expo (SITE) will kick off on Friday this week for a three-day exhibition of tourist products, travel services and policy making strategies targeting the development of tourism in Tanzania, East Africa and the rest of Africa.

Set at the Mlimani City Grounds in Tanzania’s commercial capital from Friday, October 21 to Sunday, October 23, the exhibition will target mostly tourism and travel trade companies from East Africa and the rest of the continent.

The exhibition has a character of a business networking event for the tourism industry, with components of a social nature to attract local people, families and expats, organizers said.

More than 200 exhibitors and 350 international buyers from around the world are expected to participate in the event.

The exhibition also aims to promote Tanzania’s tourism to international markets and facilitate the linking of companies based in Tanzania, Eastern, and Central Africa with tourism professionals from the global tourist markets.

The exhibition will host its first-ever Investment Forum that will bring together investors from both, public and private sectors, sharing knowledge and experiences of the business and investment climate in Tanzania, along with exposing investment opportunities to potential investors from Africa and the world.

The list of participants expected to attend the exhibition includes Ministers from seven East African Community (EAC) member states, intergovernmental organizations and representatives of the private sector.

Tanzanian minister for Tourism Dr. Pindi Chana said the SITE Tourism Exhibition will deliver an unforgettable experience poised to attract a host of exhibitors and international buyers to Tanzania.

Dr. Chana said SITE had bounced back after a three-year hiatus following global COVID-19 outbreak three years ago.

“The event is aimed to promote Tanzania’s tourism to international markets and also facilitate linking of companies based in Tanzania, Eastern and Central Africa with tourism companies from other parts of the world,” she said.

SITE was launched in 2014 and had over the years registered an increasing number of exhibitors and international buyers.

The Tanzanian tourism minister further said the number of buyers had shot up to 170 from 40, while the number of international buyers had increased to 333 from the initial 24.

She described the Swahili Expo as one of the initiatives being taken by the Tanzanian government to boost the tourism sector.

“MICE (for which the Expo falls in) is one of the strategic products that will take our tourism to another level,” she said.

The Swahili International Tourism Expo is also essential for networking among the tourism industry players from within and outside Tanzania.

“Our projection remains five million tourists per year,” Natural Resources and Tourism minister Pindi Chana said.

Tanzania government had targeted to increase tourism revenues to US $6 billion by 2025 through diversification of tourist products. This will be attained after reaching a target of five million tourist arrivals during the same year.

Read more: Swahili International Tourism Expo kicks off in Tanzania on Friday

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The results of a new survey of travel agents and Travel Management Companies (TMCs) in APAC, which reveals the changing face of corporate travel as industry recovery continues to gain strength, were announced today.

The research was carried out with respondents across Asia Pacific, in five languages in 21 countries, to gain insight into the evolving expectations of business travelers, and how corporate sellers in the region are adapting to service these new demands.  

Respondents pointed to a growing need for the corporate travel industry to tailor service offerings for new workforce realities, such as remote and blended working arrangements, while embracing technology to capitalize on, and drive, ongoing recovery. Key findings included:  

• The majority of corporate travel agents (84%) have changed their business priorities as a result of the pandemic, and are now focused on optimizing costs and efficiencies, while meeting customer and business demands with fewer employees. 

• Four-fifths of respondents have adopted new technological solutions to manage Covid-19 related risk over the past two years. And, of those who haven’t, 42% plan to do so within the next two years. The most popular solutions are travel risk management tools, automated workflows and virtual payment tools.  

• Half of agents said a rise in internal corporate travel, to bring remote workers together, will create recovery opportunities, while 45% said emerging corporate travel markets are important for growth. 

• There’s strong optimism in the market, with 82% saying they expect a return to pre-pandemic corporate travel levels, and 15% expecting a boom greater than pre-Covid-19, within the next 12 months.  

• More than two-thirds of respondents have seen an increase in bookings in the three months to August. Most are reporting an increase of not more than 30% but there’s a notable 14% with an increase of more than 50%. 

• 55% say company Covid-19-related travel restrictions are easing, and 38% say total travel spend is increasing.  

• Cost remains a key consideration. More than two-thirds have seen a moderate or significant increase in bookings with low-cost carriers. The trend is most prevalent in North Asia where there’s been a 42% switch from FSCs to LCCs.  

• Corporate travelers place high priority on information, flexibility, and hygiene. However, companies are also turning their attention to sustainability as one of the key personalization priorities for corporate travel.  

The survey results are showing that corporate travel is coming back strong. However, while business travel is rebounding, what is clear is that it is returning differently. It is important that the industry understands these changes, and the reasons for them, and is prepared to drive its own evolution, supported by robust technology.

In this way, the industry can power increased revenue and efficiency across the travel ecosystem, while ensuring corporate travel agents are best placed to create the frictionless, tailored experiences that business travelers want and expect.

Read more: Shifting shape of current and future state of corporate travel

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Enterprise Holdings, the world’s largest vehicle rental business, today announced the addition of new franchise locations featuring car rental options from Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car through the Woodford Group in South Africa.

This marks the first time Enterprise Holdings brands will be available in South Africa.

The Woodford Group offers a range of product offerings within the automotive industry including comprehensive logistic solutions, an online vehicle auction platform and Woodford Car Hire, South Africa’s largest independent car rental company and the mainstay of the brand. The company has invested heavily in technology to automate and simplify customer interactions and has earned a reputation in the market for innovation and disruption. Woodford has also become synonymous with excellent customer service and is the highest-rated car rental company in the country across review platforms.

“At Enterprise, we aim to partner with local providers that have a strong reputation for customer service excellence,” said Enterprise Holdings Assistant Vice President of Global Franchising – EMEA, Jon Flansburg. “Our new partner in South Africa has always put an emphasis on bringing a personal touch to its service, and its investment in technology and wide selection of vehicles will ensure the best possible experience for our customers.”

Woodford Group will serve the Enterprise Holdings brands at key locations in South Africa including Cape Town International Airport, OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, King Shaka International Airport in Durban, and four inner-city branches at key locations across the country.

“The Woodford Group has been considered a trailblazer in the local car rental business, so we’re proud to align ourselves with a global pioneer like Enterprise, who we know share common goals and values that will take us into a new era,” said Group CEO, Mohamed Owais Suleman.

Woodford Group, a family-owned company, is recognized as a leading provider of mobility solutions within the South African marketplace, which complements Enterprise’s company vision to be the world’s best and most trusted mobility solutions provider. The company began in 1991 with a mission of providing dependable and affordable car rental to everyday South Africans.

Established in 1957, Enterprise Holdings operates a network of nearly 10,000 neighborhood and airport rental locations in more than 90 countries and territories across the globe. Since 2012 Enterprise has pursued an aggressive global growth strategy dramatically expanding its international footprint through franchise partners.

The company has experienced massive growth in Europe, the Middle East and Africa over the past 10 years with operations in 51 countries and territories, up from just three 10 years ago. Enterprise expanded to Africa for the first time in 2019 with operations in Egypt and announced plans for expansion into Morocco earlier this year.

In addition to strong international growth, Enterprise has demonstrated sustained success by maintaining a focus on exceptional customer service and developing a range of high-performing business lines and mobility solutions for its customers.

Read more: Enterprise expands global footprint into South Africa

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World Travel Market London (WTM) 7-9 November, is expecting to facilitate a record number of deals this year as the growing number of new and returning exhibitors grows, making the event a must-attend for travel buyers from around the globe.

Across all areas of the exhibition floor, new faces will be present, as well as familiar ones. There are more than 3000+ exhibitors confirmed, more than 70 of which are making their World Travel Market London (WTM) debut.

Some of the highest-profile new participants can be found in the ‘International Hub’ region of the show, with global representatives from hotel giants such as Hilton and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. International Hub will for the first-time host bed-bank Yalago – part of the Emirates Group, transport rental firm OK Mobility and destination management company Intrepid.

Public, private and hybrid destination management companies and tourist boards are making their presence felt at this year’s event. Organizers are particularly pleased to welcome back the Brazilian tourist board Embratur, with other returnees representing destinations as diverse as Kyrgyzstan and Rwanda.

First-time destination-driven exhibitors include the Association of Ugandan Tour Operators and representatives from the Azadi International Tourism Organization, showcasing hotels, eco safaris, villages and climbing tours available in Iran.

Elsewhere, there will be a greater presence this year from the more established leisure destinations such as the Caribbean, Spain, and Portugal. The UK and Ireland stand will be twice the size of last year, hosting more than 50 partners and reflecting the continuing interest in the UK and Ireland as a staycation destination and its appeal for inbound visitors.

This year’s technology hall will include for the first time Sojern, one of the world’s leading travel-specific marketing platforms. UK-based Vamp, which helps travel companies work with influencers, and US-based car rental aggregator Sofiac are among the dozen or so technology businesses also testing the WTM London waters.

Juliette Losardo, WTM London Exhibition Director, said:

“We are delighted to welcome brand new exhibitors to this year’s event – new organizations participating is essential to moving the sector forward, as well as being very pleased to see some of our long-term loyal exhibitors return.”

“These new and returning participants come from all corners of the globe – there are now exhibitors from more than 100 countries confirmed.”

WTM London will this year have a number of specific initiatives designed to help buyers get the most out of their time at ExCeL London. The ever-popular speed networking event takes place on the first two days of the show (Monday, November 7 and Tuesday, November 8) from 08:30 to 10am. A dedicated lounge will be available to The Buyers Club, and buyers will have access to WTM Connect Me – a platform to schedule meetings ahead of arrival.

Losardo continued: “Buyers attending this year’s WTM London have the chance to meet with thousands of potential clients, reconnect with industry peers and come away inspired with new ideas. 2022 promises to be one of the most important WTM’s to date.”

Register here.

World Travel Market (WTM) Portfolio comprises leading travel events, online portals and virtual platforms across four continents. The events are:

WTM London, the leading global event for the travel industry, is the must-attend three-day exhibition for the worldwide travel and tourism industry. The show facilitates business connections for the global (leisure) travel community. Senior travel industry professionals, government ministers and international media visit ExCeL London every November, generating travel industry contracts.

Next live event: Monday 7 to 9 November 2022 at ExCel London

eTurboNews is a media partner for WTM.

Read more: New exhibitors descend on World Travel Market London 2022

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Transport workers’ conditions are at an all-time low while the cost of living is at an all-time high, bringing a new wave of strikes in transport.

Transport workers are determined to get their due: improved working conditions and fair pay to cope with the cost-of-living crisis.

This week it’s rail and tube strikes in Belgium and the UK. Earlier strike actions this summer and in September hit Europe in its ports, aviation industry, railways and public transport. Upcoming strike action this October in France and the UK is already foreseen.

Rising cost of living, growing attacks on workers, and poor working conditions: transport workers are fed up and not giving up the fight anytime soon.

The refusal of companies to offer decent pay rises and improve conditions is not only causing workers to go on strike but also leading to the shortage of workers in the industry.

This shortage of workers, as the European Transport Workers’ Federation has repeated time and time again, is actually a shortage of decent work. But now, on top of this, there is a full-blown cost of living crisis.

Most transport workers were already underpaid – they have been asking for a pay raise for years. Now, the cost of living has skyrocketed, but so have the profits of some transport companies, and workers are expected to meekly accept what they are given.

Governments and companies refuse to invest in workers and transport services and instead impose cost-cutting left and right, affecting workers and the safety and quality of services.

Transport workers are not only out there fighting for their jobs but also the future of the entire industry – it is in the collective interest of everyone that the industry provides good conditions because, without transport workers, all of the things we take for granted: delivery, getting to school, to work and much more would not exist.

ETF General Secretary Livia Spera commented: “The transport industry is ablaze: workers will continue to go on strike and even leave the industry if they have to.

So, it’s not a problem of shortage of workers as many claim.

It’s a problem of companies disrespecting, exploiting and underpaying transport workers.

The only solution is to engage with workers’ unions in constructive collective bargaining and provide jobs that allow workers to live, not merely survive.”

Strike action always comes as a last resort. When companies are willing to negotiate fairly with unions, they can be avoided.

The transport industry needs to work for its workers. Plain and simple. It’s time for the transport industry to wake up and engage employees’ representatives in constructive discussions. Until they do, our transport workers will keep on fighting.

Read more: Fresh waves of transport strikes will hit Europe

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Driving overseas can be a confusing experience and being unaware of different countries rules could land drivers in hot water.

Motoring experts have researched the most unusual driving laws across the globe that travelers will likely be completely unaware of when they get behind the wheel.

Some of these laws include being able to turn on a red light, to giving way to camels on the road.

With other rules allowing people to drive without insurance, which can come as a shock to tourists who are from countries where the system is strictly enforced.

It’s very easy for people to forget that different countries may have uncommon rules when it comes to the road. Driving laws vary across the globe, you can be fined for not locking your car in most of Australia and it’s a good idea to honk when passing Prince Edward Island in Canada.

Some of the rules can be perceived as common knowledge, but other laws may come across as quite unusual for road users.

Here are seven unique driving laws from around the world:

South Africa: No need for insurance

While it’s one of the biggest driving laws in the UK, road users in South Africa don’t need to purchase insurance when driving a car. However, many advise drivers to get one in the instance of extra protection from an accident.

Dubai: Camels come first

In the UAE, camels are referred to as important symbols and are respected highly in traffic laws. If a camel is spotted on the road, always give them the right of way.

USA: You can turn right on a red light if the road is clear

Even though drivers don’t have the right of way, most US cities allow drivers to turn right on a red light if there are no other vehicles around. However, this rule does not apply for New York City, as it’s banned unless stated otherwise on a road sign. This driving rule can save lots of wasted time for travelers in the US.

UK: You can’t use your phone to pay at the drive-through

Many drivers in the UK are unaware about the recent crackdown on using phones, which can result in a fine or penalties on a license. It’s always best to bring a contactless card when paying for fast food, or you can simply turn off the engine when paying.

Canada: You must honk when passing Prince Edward Island

It’s one of the most famous laws about Prince Edward Island. It’s very unlikely you’ll get charged for not honking, but it’s always best to say safe and press the horn when passing another vehicle.

India: Don’t drive without a pollution control certificate

To help the impact of air pollution, drivers in India must have a pollution control certificate to show that your vehicle is environmentally safe to drive. If you don’t provide a certificate, it could lead to a hefty fine.

Australia: Haven’t locked your car? Receive a fine

Read more: Unusual driving laws from around the world

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Two new providers are taking electromobility to a new level at Frankfurt Airport

The popularity of car sharing – in other words, shared use of rental vehicles – is growing fast.

And it’s a very flexible alternative to owning and using your own car or taking taxis or public transportation to get to and from the airport.

It’s also attuned to the trend toward sustainable, climate-friendly mobility, both in the air and on the ground. The car sharing providers at Frankfurt Airport (FRA) have now been joined by two companies that rely exclusively on electric vehicles: deer and UFODRIVE, each of which has five dedicated parking spaces with charging capabilities next to Terminal 1 in parking facility P2 (in row 1406 on level 14). 

Making way for climate protection

Fraport AG has ambitious climate protection goals. Among other things, it has committed itself to reducing carbon emissions to zero at both FRA and all of the Group’s other fully consolidated airports worldwide. “We’re also encouraging the companies we have contractual arrangements with to adopt clearly defined targets and solutions along these lines,” says Gerald Krebs, who is responsible at Fraport AG for parking and mobility. “So, we’re very pleased to be working with these two outfits to promote emissions-free, sustainable mobility at the airport.”

UFODRIVE GmbH

UFODRIVE GmbH is internationally active, currently operating a network of 21 locations across nine countries. Its operation at FRA, dubbed “UFOBay Frankfurt Airport”, is the company’s third station at an international airport in Europe’s German-speaking countries (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland). It offers vehicles of the Tesla brand, which can be booked via its website, or an app. Renters can also use a smartphone as a digital key for unlocking and starting the car.

deer GmbH   

deer GmbH, based in the southern German state of Baden-Württemberg, has the declared mission of enabling flexible, low-cost connections, especially in rural areas. The electric vehicles of its fleet have a range of up to 500 kilometers. One-way rentals are also possible among its nearly 200 bases. Customers can choose from a wide selection of makes and models and use an app to conveniently rent and reserve them.

More information and offers related to the themes of intermodality, car sharing, rental cars, and parking are available at frankfurt-airport.com. The airport’s website also contains abundant information on all of the services and facilities that passengers can take advantage of at Frankfurt Airport.

Read more: Car sharing goes electric at Frankfurt Airport

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From lost luggage to canceled flights, this first post-pandemic summer of ‘revenge travel’ has been filled with numerous headaches for travelers.

Soaring demand, shorthanded airlines and stormy weather turned the tables on many travelers who were determined to travel just like it was 2019.

With the US Department of Transportation (US DOT) proposing a new rule that would increase protections for passengers, the industry experts decided to find out exactly how airline chaos has impacted travelers this summer.

After surveying 2,000 travelers, the analysts found that 61% experienced a flight delay or cancellation this summer, and as a result, 83% lost money spent on prepaid hotel rooms, cruises and other activities.

Overall, summer travelers lost an average of $838 – more than double the national average cost of a domestic flight.

17% of the summer travelers missed milestone events, such as weddings, graduations and family reunions.

Lost and delayed luggage was another common travel snafu.

48% of respondents said their bags were lost or delayed while traveling.

44% of travelers said their luggage was damaged when returned to them. 

Top ways that travel chaos upended summer travel plans: 

Read more: Summer 2022: From ‘revenge travel’ to travel chaos

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The second edition of the East Africa Regional Tourism Exhibition is slated to take place in Burundi next month after the first successful edition in Tanzania last year.

The East African Community (EAC) has said that the 2nd EAC Regional Tourism EXPO will be hosted by Burundi from September 23 to 30 simultaneously with the annual World Tourism Day celebrations.

Statement, issued by the EAC Secretariat in Tanzania’s northern city of Arusha on Wednesday this week, said that the second edition of the East African Regional Tourism Expo (EARTE) will be taking place at Circle Hippique de Bujumbura in Burundian capital Bujumbura.

The statement said that the 2022 regional tourism expo is expected to attract over 250 exhibitors from over 10 countries, 120 international and regional travel agents and buyers, as well as 2,500 trade visitors.

Main objective of the tourism expo is to promote EAC as a single tourism destination, the statement said.

The tourism expo is also aimed at providing a platform for tourism service providers’ business-to-business engagements, creating awareness of tourism investment opportunities, and addressing challenges affecting the tourism and wildlife sectors in the region, the statement said.

The first regional tourism exhibition for the six member states of the East African Community (EAC) took place early in October last year in Arusha, Tanzania, attracting key personalities and policy makers from several tourist companies across the regional bloc.

The theme for the 2022 EXPO is “Rethinking Tourism for Social Economic Development in the East African Community”, the statement said.

According to the statement, the theme resonates with the United Nations World Tourism Day theme, that urges tourism destinations and stakeholders around the world to re-model tourism, following the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the sector.

Christophe Bazivamo, the EAC deputy secretary general in charge of Productive and Social Sectors, said there are strong signs of tourism recovery in all of the EAC member states – Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.

“We have noted that the tourism business is coming back and we are confident that by 2024 the region will have fully recovered,” said Bazivamo.

Bazivamo encouraged all tourism service providers in the EAC region to take advantage of the expo to showcase their offerings and engage with buyers from the region, as well as from around the world.

The Regional Tourism Expo will also create awareness on tourism investment opportunities in the East African region. Participants, including the tourism policy makers, will also chart out and discuss challenges affecting tourism development and wildlife conservation in the EAC region.

Through the Second edition of the EARTE, the EAC partner states will be ready to receive tourists from outside the region then provide them with multi-destination tourism packages through combined itineraries within the East African block.

The number of tourists arriving in the EAC region had dropped by about 67.7 percent last year to about 2.25 million international visitors, causing a $4.8 billion loss from tourist revenues. The EAC region had earlier projected to attract 14 million tourists in 2025 before the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Development of multi-destination tourism packages and tourism investment opportunities and incentives, combating of poaching and illegal wildlife trade were the key strategies need to for regional tourism development”, said Dr. Peter Mathuki, the EAC Secretary General.

Tourism sector is one of the most important areas of cooperation for EAC owing to its contribution to the economies of Partner States in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) about 10 percent, export earnings 17 percent and jobs about seven (7) percent.

Tourism also provides linkages with other sectors that are instrumental in our integration such as agriculture, transport and manufacturing are quite immense, Dr. Mathuki said earlier.

Article 115 of the EAC Treaty provides for cooperation in the tourism sector whereby the Partner States undertake to develop a collective and coordinated approach to the promotion and marketing of quality tourism into and within the Community.

East African member states share the tourism and wildlife as common resources through the cross-border movements of wildlife, tourists, tour operators, airlines and hotel owners.

Read more: Burundi hosts 2022 East Africa Regional Tourism EXPO

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A total of 73 deals* were announced in the global travel and tourism sector during July 2022, which is a decline of 39.2% over 120 deals that were announced in June 2022.

Deal making activity in the travel and tourism sector has remained inconsistent throughout 2022, with some months experiencing an improvement followed by a decline.

This trend is prevalent across several key markets.

Many of the key global markets in the travel and tourism sector witnessed a downturn in deal activities in July 2022.

Markets including the USA and the UK witnessed a decline of 51.3% and 42.1% in deals volume in July 2022 compared to June 2022, respectively.

Deal activity also remained subdued for other markets such as India, Spain, China, France, and Germany.

The announcements of mergers and acquisition (M&A), venture financing and private equity deals decreased in July.

The number of M&A deals declined by 42.9%, venture financing by 37.5% and private equity by 16.7% in July compared to June 2022.

* Comprising mergers & acquisitions, private equity, and venture financing

Read more: Travel and tourism deal activity down sharply in July

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US travel service industry revenues are forecast to increase 5.6% per year in nominal dollars through 2026, according to a report recently released by Freedonia Focus Reports.

Travel service providers will benefit from the release of pent-up demand among leisure travelers following travel delays and cancellations amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Further gains will be supported by rising disposable personal income (DPI) levels both in the USA and abroad.

Recovering demand from business travelers – supported by the expanding number of companies operating over geographically dispersed areas (a function of ongoing economy-wide consolidation) – will further support gains.

However, the widespread adoption of teleconferencing will prevent further gains, as business travel is reduced or eliminated for many companies.

Even so, the increasing ease with which travelers can book transport or accommodations directly with the providers of such services and through alternative services will restrain faster advances.

Further, inflation may stymie gains over the forecast period, particularly in the short term, as rising fuel costs drive increases in travel costs.

However, consumers are likely to be willing to bear the cost increases after years of social distancing amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2022, US travel service industry revenues are expected to see 11% growth from 2021 levels.

Gains will stem from the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions, such as the April 2022 lifting of the mask mandate on public transportation.

Revenue growth will be tempered by increasing prices for consumers, amid inflation and rising fuel costs.

Nevertheless, consumers are less likely to be deterred by such cost increases than in a typical year – an effect of “cabin fever” experienced by many following a lack of travel during the pandemic.

Read more: US travel service revenues will grow 11% in 2022

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Travelers are being advised on how to avoid travel sickness when they hit the roads this summer.

Travel experts have researched eight easy solutions to prevent people from experiencing travel sickness.

Travel sickness is caused by consistent movements during traveling and is found to be most common among children and pregnant women.

Simple tips such as sitting at the front of the car and rolling down the windows can make a big difference to anyone who develops symptoms of headaches and dizziness.

One of the biggest fears for travelers is getting travel sickness which could lead to a trip being ruined.

Using simple methods such as chewing gum and staying away from scrolling on your phone can relax symptoms such as nausea.

Following this essential advice can make all the difference for passengers and allow them to get to their destination with a peace of mind.

Here are eight helpful tips to prevent travel sickness:

Roll down the windows

Taking in the fresh air is vital when a passenger is experiencing sickness. Breathing in the fresh air can ease nausea symptoms. When travelling by plane, turn on the air conditioning to relax the sickness feeling.

Stay hydrated

Water is key to reducing the severity of a headache caused by travel sickness. Drink plenty and avoid the temptation of a glass of prosecco or fizzy drinks.

Pack the gum

Having chewing gum can relax your stomach, as the coolness can relax stomach muscles and takes your mind off the pain. Bring both peppermint and ginger flavored gum to help the sickness.

Snack lightly

Avoid heavy and greasy foods on the journey. Choose some lightly salted snacks such as seaweed bites or dry crackers which won’t disturb the stomach pains.

Play some good tunes

Distraction is one of the best ways to help your mind forget about the burden of travel sickness. Play your favorite songs on the radio at a low volume to focus your mind on something else other than feeling sick.

Bring a sick bag

A last resort option may be needed if you can’t do anything to stop sickness. Having a sick bag on board can make you feel calmer, as you know there is another option available.

Read more: Simple hacks to avoid travel sickness this summer

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The global business travel industry continues its progress towards full recovery to 2019 pre-pandemic spending levels of USD $1.4 trillion, but recovery has hit some headwinds. Just as many COVID-related recovery conditions have improved, many macroeconomic conditions deteriorated rapidly in early 2022.

These new developments are impacting the timing, trajectory and pace of business travel’s recovery, both globally and by region, pushing the forecast for full recovery into 2026 instead of 2024 as previously forecasted.

This is a central finding from the latest 2022 GBTA Business Travel Index Outlook – Annual Global Report and Forecast – an annual exhaustive study of business travel spending and growth covering 73 countries and 44 industries.

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The 2022 BTI also reveals insights from recent surveys of global finance executives and business travelers. Additionally, it explores new and transformative factors in global business travel in the areas of sustainability, workforce dynamics (including remote work and blended travel or “bleisure”), and technology adoption.

Highlights from the latest BTI Outlook (in US dollars): 

• Total spending on global business travel reached $697 billion in 2021, 5.5% above the pandemic-era low of 2020. Last year was nearly as challenging as 2020 for the global business travel industry, as it sought to carve out a “normal following” the Covid-19 pandemic. The industry gained back roughly $36 billion of the $770 billion lost in 2020.

• Recovery was short-circuited by the Omicron variant and spike in global COVID cases in late 2021 and early 2022. As case numbers began to retreat, business travel surged. Global business travel spending in 2022 is expected to advance 34% over 2021 levels to $933 billion, recovering to 65% of pre-pandemic levels.

• Recovery in 2022 was dependent upon and has been largely driven by improvement in the four factors of global business travel recovery – the global vaccination effort, national travel policies, business traveler sentiment, and travel management policy – where conditions have improved significantly in the last six months.

• Deteriorating economic conditions and shifting secular trends in 2022, however, have slowed global recovery. Hence, global business travel will almost reach pre-pandemic levels in 2025, reaching $1.39 trillion.

• Global spending is not expected to make it fully back to the $1.4 trillion dollar mark until mid-2026, when it is forecast to reach $1.47 trillion dollars. This adds an estimated 18 months to the industry’s recovery than was forecast in the previous GBTA Business Travel Index released in November 2021.

• The 2022 BTI finds the biggest obstacles to more accelerated recovery in global business travel are persistent inflation, high energy prices, severe supply chain challenges and labor shortages, a significant economic slowdown and lockdowns in China, and major regional impacts due to the war in Ukraine as well as emerging sustainability considerations. 

The Divergent Recovery in Global Business Travel Continues

In all, global business travel spending is expected to gain 33.8% in 2022, however, differences are anticipated across the world’s top business travel markets. The timing and pace of the recovery will continue to vary significantly from one region of the world to the next, as evidenced in 2021.

• North America led the recovery in 2021 – driven largely by rapidly returning domestic travel. Western Europe was the one region to witness spending declines last year as COVID-19 impacted its domestic and regional business travel market. Both regions are expected to experience the sharpest recoveries with compound annual growth increases of 23.4% (to $363.7 billion) and 16.9% (to $323.9 billion), respectively by 2026.

• Business travel spending in Latin America grew modestly in 2021 as the vaccination effort got off to a slower start. While there may be challenges in this region over the next few years, 55% growth in spend in Latin America is forecast for this year as business travel recovers to 83% of pre-pandemic totals.

• Asia Pacific helped lead the industry in terms of recovery of spend in 2021– particularly in China. This reversed in 2022, as China’s Zero-Covid policy led to wide-scale lockdowns and other countries in the region only slowly opened up. For 2022, a solid increase of 16.5% (or $407.1 billion) in spending is expected in APAC (held back by China at 5.6%, or $286.9 billion), with the region recovering to 66% of pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2022.

Business Travel and Finance Executives Highlight the Challenges and Opportunities

In July 2022, GBTA surveyed over 400 frequent business travelers and nearly four dozen executive travel budget decision makers across four global regions. Overall sentiment is positive, but also confirms COVID-19 concerns are taking a back seat to current macroeconomic and geopolitical issues.

• 85% of business travelers surveyed said they definitely need to travel to accomplish their business goals. Over three-fourths said they expect to travel for work more or much more in 2023 than they did in 2022. 

• 84% of senior global corporate finance professionals voiced confidence their travel spending would somewhat or significantly increase in 2023 compared to 2022.

• 73% of business travelers and 38 of 44 senior global financial executives agree inflation/rising prices will impact travel volumes.

• 69% of business travelers and 33 of 44 global financial executives are concerned a possible recession will impact travel.

• 68% of business travelers and 36 of 44 financial executives expect Covid infection rates and variants to have an impact on their travel.

Read more: Business travel spending full recovery expected by 2026

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Hundreds of destination marketing leaders learned of the profound changes forecast for how, when and where people work, vacation and enjoy leisure time, thanks to a presentation Sunday by Delaware North at the U.S. Travel Association’s annual Educational Seminar for Tourism Organizations (ESTO) conference.

“Now What? Industry Insights Post COVID,” the opening keynote for the four-day conference in Grand Rapids, Mich., highlighted Delaware North’s most recent “future of” report, “The Future of Recreation, Travel and Hospitality,” or “FORTH,” released in June.

Delaware North CEO Jerry Jacobs Jr., who helped guide the global hospitality and entertainment company’s recovery from a near total shutdown during the pandemic, was joined by Brandon Presser, a noted travel writer, author, TV host and Executive Editor of FORTH, in presenting the report. They also discussed its ramifications for the travel industry during a panel that included Amir Eylon, President and CEO of Longwoods International.

“Today’s travel leaders are preparing for a future that promises to be more sustainable, more innovative and more secure for global travelers. It’s a priority shared by every segment of this industry in the United States and our partners in the federal government,” said Tori Emerson Barnes, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy at the U.S. Travel Association. “The Delaware North report, presented at U.S. Travel’s ESTO conference, offers valuable observations on the future of travel and recreation in the years ahead.” The FORTH report charts the possible course of massive social transformations and explores how emerging technologies might forever alter hospitality and travel businesses, including how climate change and other factors could significantly impact travelers’ destination selection. A team of 16 veteran journalists, including Presser and members of Attention Span Media, interviewed experts across diverse industries to produce the report.

“Like many other hospitality, travel and foodservice businesses, Delaware North had to fight for survival during the pandemic and adapt to daily changes in circumstances,” Jacobs said. “Nothing could be more timely or important than taking time to understand the seismic shifts that are taking place in our business and trying to understand where we are headed and to better understand the changes our customers now want and expect.”

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Jacobs said Delaware North has already begun to discuss how the company can use the report’s findings to shape investments and business lines going forward. Among the possibilities are exploring opportunities to acquire or build lodging adjacent to less well-known national parks and possibly under-developed northern regions.

“As summers grow hotter in parts of the South, we might start to see a phenomenon of ‘sunbirds’ – Southern residents who seek to spend the summer in the moderate temperatures afforded by the Great Lakes,” Jacobs said. “This presents the opportunity for tourism agencies and lodging companies to identify extended stay lodging to meet the rising demand.”

Among the report’s predictions:

• Work from anywhere will change the travel industry: The pandemic gave the white-collar workforce a crash course in working away from their offices. This tectonic shift creates massive new opportunities in the travel industry. Freedom to work from anywhere creates freedom elsewhere in people’s lives, including where they live and how much of their time they can spend traveling.
• A billion new travelers: By 2040, another billion people will be jetting off around the world as countries with young populations – especially in Asia – are poised to mint new legions of urbanized individuals with substantially higher earning power.
• Climate change will alter destinations: Climate change will attract travelers to northern destinations to experience longer tourist seasons. Beach destinations will begin to move northward. For example, the beaches of Maine could host the jet set that traditionally goes to South Beach in Miami.
• The sharing economy will dominate travel and leisure: Sharing platforms such as AirBnB will increasingly partner with a network of real estate developers, interior designers, property managers and cleaning services to develop an inventory that more closely mimics traditional lodging options in terms of price point and consistency.
• A new style of working: The remarkable rise of the gig economy – using short-term contract and freelance workers as opposed to permanent employees – has pulled workers away from lower-level jobs in the hospitality industry. It is a key reason they are not returning. The most advanced large employers will build their own gig-like apps to maintain an available workforce while providing employees the flexibility they desire.
• Blockchain revolutionizes airport security: A decade from now, most passports may well be backed not by the full faith and credit of the government, but rather by the blockchain. This readily accessible and ubiquitous digital identity platform will transform the travel experience.

Delaware North’s first two “Future Of” reports, in 2015 and 2016, focused on sports and correctly predicted the rise of esports, the legalization and proliferation of sports betting in the United States and the move to live stream sports events. Subsequent reports focused on parks, as well as medicine, which was undertaken because of the Jacobs family’s strong support of the University at Buffalo and its Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.

Read more: Seismic transformation coming to recreation, travel and hospitality

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The results of the Q2 2022 Travel Insights Report, which spotlights data and trends from across North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific and EMEA, and provides actionable insights for travel brands and marketers, were released today.

“Despite a variety of industry and economic headwinds during Q2, people still found a way to travel, and in many cases, went further afield,” said Jennifer Andre, Global Vice President, Media Solutions.

“The return of long-haul and international family travel, higher hotel average daily rates and higher average ticket prices in Q2, are just a few positive indicators for what we hope will be a strong second half of 2022. Our latest report provides valuable data and insights to help marketers effectively reach and engage potential travelers and capture sustained traveler demand.” 

Key findings from the Q2 2022 Traveler Insights Report include: 

Travel Searches Hold Steady 

Following a 25% quarter-over-quarter surge in searches globally between Q4 2021 and Q1 2022 across the Expedia Group branded sites, search volumes held steady in Q2, indicating sustained interest and enthusiasm to travel. Asia Pacific (APAC) saw strong double-digit growth between Q1 and Q2 (30%), followed by Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) at 10%.  

Week-over-week global search volume fluctuated throughout Q2, with the strongest gains during the week of June 6. Week-over-week searches globally increased 10% following the June 10 announcement that the U.S. would no longer require COVID-19 testing for international travelers. 

Search Windows Still Shorter 

Seasonal holidays and a palpable desire to travel in the near term, coupled with economic and pandemic-related concerns and regional instability, contributed to growth in shorter search windows during Q1. Global share of searches in the 0- to 90–day window increased more than 5% quarter-over-quarter, with the 61- to 90–day window seeing the largest quarter-over-quarter lift at 15%.     

In Q2, the majority of global domestic searches fell within the 0- to 30–day window, while the share of searches in the 91- to 180+ day window decreased quarter-over-quarter. The continued easing of travel restrictions and testing requirements contributed to a double-digit quarter-over-quarter lift in international searches globally in the 0- to 90–day window, with the strongest growth in the 61- to 90–day window. This indicates that even though travelers have reverted to planning for the near term, they are still considering international trips. Destinations and travel brands should ensure international travelers are part of the audience targeting mix, and leverage search window and destination insights to further bolster their marketing strategy. 

Long-Haul Destinations Returning 

As with prior quarters, major cities and beach destinations around the world remained popular with travelers in Q2, but London and Paris had particularly strong showings. On the global top 10 list of booked destinations in Q2, London took the No. 3 spot, and made the top 10 list of booked destinations across all regions. London was the No. 1 booked destination by travelers from APAC and EMEA and made new appearances on the top 10 lists for travelers from Latin America (LATAM) and North America (NORAM). 

Q2 also saw a significant increase in demand for long-haul flights – flights with a duration of 4+ hours – as travelers look to go further afield. There was more than a 50% year-over-year increase in global traveler demand for long-haul flights. Further illustrating the rise in long-haul flights, Q2 delivered more than 100% year-over-year growth in traveler demand for flights from the U.S. to Europe. 

Demand Stays Strong Despite Rising Costs 

Q2 continued the growth momentum from Q1, with lodging bookings at the highest in Expedia Group history. A prior-year comparison shows total gross bookings were up by double digits, as travel demand further improved. Lodging demand increased quarter-over-quarter in Q2, with APAC seeing the strongest growth. With sustained demand globally, average daily rates (ADR) in Q2 increased quarter-over-quarter and even more so compared to Q2 2019, while room night cancellation rates globally declined by double digits compared to Q2 2019. 

Strong demand, rising fuel costs, and an increase in longer-distance flights booked drove a quarter-over-quarter increase in the global average ticket price during Q2. Compared to Q2 2019, the global average ticket price was up double-digits in Q2 2022, led by EMEA and APAC. 

Growing Interest in Inclusive Travel People around the world are increasingly seeking ways to have more meaningful and conscientious travel experiences. According to recent Inclusive Travel Insights Report, 92% of consumers think it is important for travel providers to meet the accessibility needs of all travelers, yet only half of consumers have seen options that are accessible to all abilities when they are searching for and booking a trip.  

These insights point to the gap in accessible and inclusive options in the travel marketplace, as well as the opportunities for travel brands to improve offerings and make travel accessible to all travelers, everywhere. 

Consumers are also paying attention to a travel brand’s commitment to inclusion, diversity, and accessibility, and these commitments are influencing purchasing decisions. In fact, 78% of consumers said they have made a travel choice based on promotions or ads that they felt represented them through messaging or visuals, while 7 in 10 consumers would choose a destination, lodging, or transportation option that is more inclusive of all types of travelers, even if it’s more expensive. 

Read more: Long-haul destinations are back, hotel & flight demand strong in Q2

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New research reveals the top ten vacation destinations for those looking for some travel inspiration this summer.

More than 90 million tourists worldwide flock to the top ten global vacation locations every year, according to the industry experts.

The list of the most visited countries worldwide features many beautiful cities that offer a variety of activities and sites to keep you interested across your trip, however long.

Here are a top ten vacation destinations identified in the new research:

Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia, Spain – Perhaps coming as no surprise, Spain’s most popular tourist attraction is the famous Segrada Familia in its most famous city, Barcelona. According to Statista and Spain Guides this famous landmark was the top Spanish destination for holiday-goers in 2021 and looks to continue this way in 2022. Barcelona pulled in seven million visitors in 2019.

New York, United States – Again, probably not the most surprising result but the US’s most popular destination each year, with 14 million visiting the city in 2019. Sites such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building draw in millions alone each year and boost the tourism industry of the States.

Paris, France – Over 19 million people visited Paris in 2019, with attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Champs Élysées drawing in visitors from all across the globe. Paris is also renowned as the most romantic city in the world and is not named the City of Lights for no reason, having a stunning night scape.

Rome, Italy – For overall visitor numbers, Rome saw nearly 11 million in 2019, with some of the most famous tourist attractions in the world. People flock to spend the day looking around the Colosseum or spend time at the Vatican City.

Athens, Greece – Greece has a fairly even spread of numbers across its major cities but Athens comes out on top with 6.3 million visiting in 2019. Greece has perhaps the biggest mix of historical sites and party destinations in the world, and this is reflected in the distribution of tourism numbers. 

Lisbon, Portugal – On Portugal’s Tagus Estuary, Lisbon overlooks much of the Portuguese coast on its hilltop perch. It is one of the prettiest cities in Europe and pre-pandemic drew in 3.64 million tourists.

Berlin, Germany – In 2021 Berlin had the most visitors among German cities with 5.1 million tourist arrivals, down from 6.1m pre-pandemic. Berlin has some of the most historically interesting sites in Europe, including the Brandenburg Gate and the Holocaust Memorial, located very close to one another.

Sydney, Australia – New South Wales reported the largest number of foreign visitors pre-pandemic of any Australian state. Its capital, Sydney is the most famous city in Australia, home to the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach, attracting a huge number of visitors during the summer months.

Toronto, Canada – Hailed as one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, Toronto is also Canada’s most visited city, seeing 4.7 million in 2019. A two-hour drive from Toronto finds Niagara Falls, one of the most famous attractions in the world, with some years seeing in excess of 12 million visitors.

Istanbul, Turkey – It is close between the iconic Istanbul and Antalya representing the European/Asian side of Turkey, and the Mediterranean side. It is Istanbul that takes the top spot, narrowly with just one million more visitors pre-pandemic. With historical sites such as the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque it is hardly surprising that Istanbul is so popular.

Read more: Paris to Istanbul: 2022 top ten hottest vacation destinations

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Now that the world is open following the pandemic, the world is making up for the lost time.

The travel industry, in particular, has been reaping the benefits of the post-pandemic.

According to the latest data, downloads of travel/navigation apps increased by an impressive 18% y-o-y growth during the second quarter of 2022.

Overall, the downloads of top travel/navigation apps reached 137 million during this period.

According to recent numbers, a total of 137 million downloads of top travel apps on the App Store and Play Store combined took place in the last quarter. This was the third consecutive quarter to see improvement in number of downloads.

The graph shows that downloads hit an all-time low during 2020 as COVID-19 rampaged the world. However, the US travel industry started to recover in 2021.

The total number of app downloads progressively increased during the year’s first three quarters.

From Q4 2020 to Q3 2021, the number of downloads consistently grew from 70 million to 123 million – a growth of 76%.

However, the escalating curve changed its direction in Q4 as downloads dropped to 106m. This drop was not surprising as numbers in Q4 generally drop.

The downloads picked up during the first quarter of 2022 and reached 115 million.

Year-on-year, this figure represents a 33.7% growth from 2021.

Around the same time, the Omicron variant became a cause for concern, but it appears that it didn’t have much impact on numbers.

The growth in downloads has continued into the second quarter of 2022.

The number of downloads increased to 137 million in Q2.

Historically, this was the best quarter for travel/navigation apps as the number even eclipsed Pre-COVID downloads.

As compared to Q1, downloads increased by 19%. In terms of Y-O-Y growth, the rate dropped from 33.7% in Q1 to 18% in Q2.

The US tourism industry is at its peak during Q3, which is also reflected in travel app downloads.

Historically, travel app downloads hit their peak during the third quarter of a year. Hence, one can expect the upward trend in download numbers to continue in the third quarter. 

Read more: Travel apps downloads in the US up by 18%

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According to the latest survey of summertime travel trends, two island destinations located off the southern coast of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, are the most expensive places to stay in the United States this summer.

With average rates of $525 and $485 per night, respectively, for the least expensive double room, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard topped the rankings.

The survey compared accommodation rates across all US destinations during the month of August 2022. Only hotels or inns rated at least 3 stars and located close to a beach or city center were considered.

The podium is completed by Montauk, a village situated at the eastern tip of the Long Island peninsula in New York State, with a rate of $416 per night.

Elsewhere in the survey’s top ten findings, New York State is also represented by Saratoga Springs in sixth spot, where average rates are $372 per night. New Jersey also features in the top ten, with Long Beach Island in 4^th position, where visitors can expect to pay $384 per night.

California also has two destinations in the top ten: Avalon ($371) and Huntington Beach ($357) in 7^th and 8^th spot, respectively while Maine is represented by Bar Harbor ($383) and Kennebunkport ($354), in 5^th and 9^th positions, respectively.

Below is the list of the 10 most expensive summer destinations in the United States this year. The prices shown reflect the average rate for each destination’s cheapest available double room for the period spanning August 1 – August 31, 2022.

1. Nantucket (MA) $525

2. Martha’s Vineyard (MA) $485

3. Montauk (NY) $416

4. Long Beach Island (NJ) $384

5. Bar Harbor (ME) $383

6. Saratoga Springs (NY) $372

7. Avalon (CA) $371

8. Huntington Beach (CA) $357

9. Kennebunkport (ME) $354

10. Poipu (HI) $353

Read more: Most expensive summer travel destinations in the US

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Always wanted to go on a luxury holiday, but could never afford one? Or thought you could never afford one?

You may be pleasantly surprised to find out that not all destinations cost quite so much when it comes to enjoying a luxury break.

Travel industry experts analyzed the most popular cities around the world on their average costs for luxury travel factors, including the costs of 5-star hotels, spa hotels, Michelin star meals, and luxury car hire, to reveal the most affordable destinations for a luxury travel experience.

Top 10 Most Affordable Luxury Travel Destinations 

1. Bangkok, Thailand – Michelin Star Meal – $150, Five-Star Hotel (one night) – $295, Luxury Car (one day) – $59, Spa Hotel (one night) – $241, Budget Score/10 – 9.49
2. Brussels, Belgium – Michelin Star Meal – $156, Five-Star Hotel (one night) – $360, Luxury Car (one day) – $150, Spa Hotel (one night) – $274, Budget Score/10 – 8.80
3. Verona, Italy – Michelin Star Meal – $180, Five-Star Hotel (one night) – $452, Luxury Car (one day) – $178, Spa Hotel (one night) – $203, Budget Score/10 – 7.68
4. Osaka, Japan – Michelin Star Meal – $207, Five-Star Hotel (one night) – $300, Luxury Car (one day) – $177, Spa Hotel (one night) – $177, Budget Score/10 – 7.59
5. Berlin, Germany – Michelin Star Meal – $191, Five-Star Hotel (one night) – $498, Luxury Car (one day) – $161, Spa Hotel (one night) – $334, Budget Score/10 – 7.42
6. Frankfurt, Germany – Michelin Star Meal – $177, Five-Star Hotel (one night) – $712, Luxury Car (one day) – 153, Spa Hotel (one night) – $313, Budget Score/10 – 7.33
7. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Michelin Star Meal – $113, Five-Star Hotel (one night) – $621, Luxury Car (one day) – $79, Spa Hotel (one night) – $621, Budget Score/10 – 6.90
8. Tokyo, Japan – Michelin Star Meal – $215, Five-Star Hotel (one night) – $408, Luxury Car (one day) – $177, Spa Hotel (one night) – $321, Budget Score/10 – 6.73
9. Lisbon, Portugal – Michelin Star Meal – $172, Five-Star Hotel (one night) – $609, Luxury Car (one day) – $177, Spa Hotel (one night) – $503, Budget Score/10 – 6.47
10. Dublin, Republic of Ireland – Michelin Star Meal – $126, Five-Star Hotel (one night) – $619, Luxury Car (one day) – $229, Spa Hotel (one night) – $327, Budget Score/10 – 6.04

The most affordable city when it comes to luxury travel is Thailand’s capital, Bangkok – a city typically famous for its backpacking scene. Bangkok was the cheapest city for luxury car hire ($59), and the city also ranked amongst the cheapest for Michelin star meals ($150) and 5* hotel stays ($295). 

In second place is Brussels, Belgium. Brussels was affordable across the board, particularly when it came to the cost of a five-star hotel ($680) and luxury car hire ($150). Brussels is the most affordable European destination among the cities ranked, known for its chocolate, beer, and museums.

Ads: Exklusive Luxusreisen für Unternehmer und Manager

Another European destination takes third place, with Verona, Italy, being the third cheapest destination when taking a luxury holiday. Verona has the second-cheapest average cost when it comes to booking a spa hotel, at just $177 per night. 

More detail for luxury on a budget:

Read more: World’s most affordable luxury travel destinations

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According to newly released data from National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO), in May 2022:

• International visitors spent $12.6 billion on travel to, and tourism-related activities within, the United States, an increase of nearly 105 percent compared to May 2021.

• Americans spent $12.4 billion traveling abroad, yielding a balance of trade surplus of $245 million for the month—the seventh consecutive month during which the United States enjoyed a balance of trade surplus for travel and tourism.

• Year to date (January through May 2022), international visitors have spent $55.5 billion on U.S. travel and tourism-related goods and services (up nearly 107% when compared to the same period last year), injecting, on average, $367.5 million a day into the U.S. economy.

• Year to date (January through May 2022), while other U.S. exports of goods and services were +20% compared to the first five months of pre-pandemic 2019, travel exports were -45%.

Composition of Monthly Spending (Travel Exports)

Travel Receipts 

• Purchases of travel and tourism-related goods and services by international visitors traveling in the United States totaled $6.7 billion in May 2022 (compared to $2.1 billion in May 2021), an increase of 223 percent when compared to the previous year.
• For a pre-pandemic perspective, travel receipts totaled $12.1 billion in May 2019. These goods and services include food, lodging, recreation, gifts, entertainment, local transportation in the United States, and other items incidental to international travel.
• Travel receipts accounted for 53 percent of total U.S. travel and tourism exports in May 2022.

Passenger Fare Receipts

• Fares received by U.S. carriers from international visitors totaled nearly $2.0 billion in May 2022 (compared to $898 million in May 2021), an increase of 122 percent when compared to the previous year. 
• For a pre-pandemic perspective, the United States exported more than $3.3 billion in passenger air transportation services in May 2019. These receipts are expenditures by foreign residents on international flights of U.S. air carriers.
• Passenger fare receipts accounted for 16 percent of total U.S. travel and tourism exports in May 2022.

Medical/Education/Short-Term Worker Spending

Read more: International visitor US travel spending up nearly 105%

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Eco-friendly domestic tourists in the UK are more switched on to the issue of sustainability than their European counterparts – and more likely to bear these concerns in mind when booking a short break, according to new research.

An impressive 69% of UK travelers say they have heard about the concept of ‘sustainable travel’, with 41% claiming to have a strong understanding of the subject. This makes them more knowledgeable than their neighbors from France (68% / 32%) and Belgium (65% / 29%). However, while 82% of those questioned in Generation Z (18-24) are clued up, that drops with each increasing age bracket, to just 60% of Boomers (65 and over).

When it comes to nipping off for a short city break, whether it’s at home or overseas, just under half of Britons (49%) say preserving the environment in their chosen destination is ‘very important’, again ahead of the French and Belgians (42% and 37% respectively).

Pollsters conducted a wide-ranging survey on the issue of sustainable holidays to capture a barometer gauge on how current attitudes to green issues were likely to shape travel trends in the future. And interestingly, it was good news for holiday companies, with the answers suggesting that holidaymakers already understand that eco-tourism comes with an additional cost. While 77% of UK travelers acknowledge that eco-friendly tourism is expensive, it is a cost most are willing pay.

When quizzed about choosing activities on their city break, UK visitors are the most likely to opt for operators and attractions that are environmentally aware (86%). At the same time, Brits are more accepting of the idea that visiting a city in a ‘greener’ way could be more expensive – with average price rises of 16.5% being deemed bearable (French would pay 10.8% more / Belgians 11.8% more). However, less than one in five overall (19%) say that they would choose an eco-friendly option even if it is more expensive than a similar, less green option.

Right across the travel and hospitality industry companies are battling with the fear that raising environmental standards and improving pay and conditions for staff is going to hurt them, but what the survey has discovered is that Britons are much more aware of sustainability and want to make them part of their holiday choices. And while the generational differences are clear, it is heartening to see that the younger age groups are the ones driving change.

The trend for doing the right thing on holiday is reflected in the British willingness to adopt eco-friendly behaviors during a city trip. Popular measures include buying local produce (89%); eating local and responsibly, with less meat and seasonal goods (82%); travelling off-peak (82%) and choosing sustainable travel to get around the city, such as walking or cycling (79%).

For city mayors and town planners there are some interesting take-aways too. Natural attractions such as green spaces and parks, and the proximity of rivers, feature in the city-break decisions of 52% of Brits. More than one in every two (55%) Brits would choose to visit a city in the UK, potentially a by-product of the pandemic restrictions, but also the how travel operators have adapted to the domestic market over last two years.

Preserving the environment is important for every component of the trip, especially for young people, who are willing to pay more than other groups. And you certainly shouldn’t underestimate the power of social media either, with British travelers way out in front when it comes to getting a good selfie… a staggering one in five (21%) said they would visit a particular spot to take the ultimate Instagram shot (rising to one in three (33%) for those aged 18-34).

And looking ahead, British holidaymakers are also more inclined to believe that the future of holidays is much more sustainable. As many as 84% of those questioned believe sustainable travel is a good way to help the environment.

Read more: Brits come out on top when it comes to responsible travel

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A total of 573 deals were announced in the global travel and tourism sector during H1 2022, which is a year-on-year (YoY) increase of 3.1% over the 556 deals that were announced in H1 2021.

Deal activity has been fueled by improving deal-making sentiments in the travel and tourism sector following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Sector analysis reveals that the mentions of business travel among corporates increased by 4% YoY in H1 2022 (as of June 13). However, this trend is not uniform across all the regions and markets.

Deal activity improved by 11.7% and 11.9% YoY in Europe and North America, respectively, in H1 2022. In contrast, Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Africa and South & Central America recorded a decline of 10.2%, 20.8% and 7.1%, respectively.

Similarly, while travel and tourism deal activity improved in several key global markets, some markets experienced decline. Deal volume increased in markets including the US, the UK, India, Spain and Germany by 12.8%, 16.1%, 20.8%, 33.3% and 41.2%, respectively.

Meanwhile, markets such as Japan, China, Australia, France and South Korea witnessed declines of 11.1%, 11.1%, 25%, 5% and 12.5%, respectively, in deal volume.

The number of venture financing and private equity deals announced decreased YoY by 12.3% and 14.6%, respectively, in H1 2022 while the number of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deals increased by 15%.

Read more: Travel and tourism deal activity up in first half of 2022

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Getting ready to get married is quite a thrilling time for anyone, with so much to look forward to and plenty of fun in the planning.

There’s one aspect of the planning that seems much more exhilarating than the others, though.

The bachelor and bachelorette parties give brides and grooms the chance to relax and enjoy the last single life party time with their friends before saying ‘I do’.

While arranging the wedding itself is a monumental undertaking, planning the bachelor and bachelorette shindy can be almost as epic, with things like fun, food, drinks, and the guest list to plan and coordinate.

And, of course, the main question always is where will the bachelor or bachelorette party be?

According to wedding experts, 97% of bachelor and bachelorette parties are now becoming overnight events, so why not catch the plane and host your last single life bash in a different city, or better yet – different country?

With so many cities around the world offering something different, industry experts conducted research into the best destinations for a pre-wedding party.

The analysts compared the number of the nightlife attractions, casinos and Airbnb rates for bachelor parties and the number of the nightlife attractions and spas for bachelorette shindigs and ranked some popular global destinations according to their suitability for the party of a lifetime!

Top 10 bachelor party destinations

1. Prague, Czech Republic, Bachelor Party Score – 8.75
2. Milan, Italy, Bachelor Party Score – 7.96
3. Paris, France, Bachelor Party Score – 7.62
4. Lisbon, Portugal, Bachelor Party Score – 7.42
5. Barcelona, Spain, Bachelor Party Score – 7.42
6. Dublin, Ireland, Bachelor Party Score – 7.28
7. Vancouver, Canada, Bachelor Party Score – 7.08
8. Budapest, Hungary, Bachelor Party Score – 7.08
9. Brussels, Belgium, Bachelor Party Score – 6.67
10. Amsterdam, Netherlands, Bachelor Party Score – 6.6

• With an overall score of 8.57, Prague came out on top. With 793 nightlife attractions and 56 casinos, the city will keep the guests entertained.

• Milan came in second, with roughly 2 nightlife attractions per km², demonstrating that the city is more than just one of the world’s fashion capitals.

• Paris, dubbed “the city of love”, offers nearly 5 nightlife attractions per km². Yes, it is one of the more expensive cities on the list, but with a 7.62 rating, it is well worth it!

• Just shy of the top 10, Miami made it to the 11th spot in the overall ranking. Despite this, the city made it to the 8th spot in the nightlife ranking and also 3rd in the casino ranking. So, if you don’t want to cross the Atlantic Ocean for your bachelor party, US soil hosts some ideal destinations.

• Las Vegas also dominated the casino rating, holding 1st place here. Despite being rated 13th overall, we can see a gem on US soil, especially if a casino trip is on the cards for the partying bachelors.

• Maybe you want to take St Paddy’s spirit on your bachelor’s trip. With Dublin taking the 6th spot overall, you could be greeted with the luck of the Irish whilst also enjoying the 3rd ranked city for its nightlife! 

Top 10 bachelorette party destinations

Read more: World’s best cities for bachelor and bachelorette parties

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As pressure mounts for cities around the world to do their bit when it comes to fighting climate change, travelers are increasingly conscious of the impact they could be having on the planet.

New industry study, released today, analyzed 50 of the most visited cities in the United States on a range of factors such as the percentage of sustainable hotels, public transport usage, pollution levels, and congestion rates. 

So, which are the most sustainable destinations in the US? 

The Top 10 Most Sustainable Cities in the USA 

1. Portland, OR
2. Seattle, WA
3. New York City, NY
4. Minneapolis, MN
5. Denver, CO
6. Boston, MA
7. Salt Lake City, UT
8. Buffalo, NY
9. San Jose, CA
10. Austin, TX

In first place is Portland, Oregon, which is well known for being a progressive city.  The state of Oregon has the highest rate of renewable energy usage of any on our list (43.1%). Also, it scores highly for its low light pollution (6,590μcd/m2) and the number of sustainable hotels (9% of total hotels). 

Not too far from Portland is the second-placed city of Seattle, Washington. Like Portland, Seattle scores highly for its usage of renewable energy (38.4%) as well as for its average air pollution (6μg/m³), people who walk or use public transport (44.8%), and sustainable hotels (9.19%).

Despite being one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world, New York takes third place. NYC was the top-scoring city for not one, not two, but three factors: sustainable hotels, people walking or using public transportation, and length of cycle paths.

The research also revealed the least sustainable US cities:

1. Nashville, TN
2. Columbus, OH
3. Dallas, TX
4. Houston, TX
5. Indianapolis, IN
6. Philadelphia, PA
7. Chicago, IL
8. Baltimore, MD
9. Tampa, FL
10. Cincinnati, OH

Coming bottom of the rankings is Nashville, Tennessee, one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.  Nashville is the lowest-scoring city when it comes to its air pollution (14.3μg/m³) and also scores poorly for its cycle path infrastructure, with just 0.6 miles of protected pathways.

The second-lowest scoring city is Columbus, the most populated city in the state of Ohio. Ohio has a very low rate of renewable energy usage (4.4%) and the city of Columbus has a high level of air pollution, at 13.6μg/m³.

Read more: Most and least sustainable US travel destinations

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Digital detox holidays are everywhere, but what if you’re more Insta-happy (or just want to use Google Maps abroad)?

Modern travel means having every convenience at your fingertips, from checking into hotels to navigating a new country as you hunt for its hidden gems.

That said, not all holiday destinations have caught up with the ways of modern traveling.

Travel industry experts have just released new research detailing the cheapest, easiest and most all-round phone-friendly destinations.

The researchers measured 17 top travel destinations against 11 metrics to find out which countries are best to take on holiday.

The index measured factors such as 4G availability and 5G speeds, cost of data, average mobile internet speed, number of Wi-Fi hotspots, local SIM card availability for tourists, number of Instagram posts, cybersecurity and censorship.

The best countries to take your phone on holiday are the USA, the Netherlands and Italy

• The United States of America is a clear winner, scoring a total of 87 out of 110. It scores big for 4G availability – the highest amongst all 17 countries – SIM card availability, cybersecurity and number of free public Wi-Fi spots.
• Although in second place, The Netherlands trails considerably behind with a total score of 75. Its top scores include higher 5G speeds than any other country, great 4G availability and internet penetration rate, and promising online censorship scores.
• Italy is in third place with a score of 67, thanks to its low data costs and being the most popular country based on Instagram posts.

Hungary, Mexico and Greece do worst for traveling with your phone

At the lower end of the scale are Hungary, Mexico and Greece.

• Hungary gets 44 out of 110 mostly due to low popularity on social media, low number of free Wi-Fi spots and a poor rate of contactless payments.
• Mexico scores 46 thanks to low 4G availability, few contactless payments, low cybersecurity measures.
• Greece also scores 46, with its low number of free Wi-F spots and a poor contactless payments rate.

Turkey is the best place to save cash on your data usage

Looking specifically at price and phone usage, Turkey is where it’s cheapest to use your phone when considering the number of free Wi-Fi spots, costs of mobile data (based on 1GB of data) and mobile internet penetration rates. The top 5 holiday destinations for data usage are:

1. Turkey – low data rate at $0.65 per 1GB of data, 82% internet penetration, 278,376 free Wi-Fi spots.

2. United States – one of the highest data rates ($7.28/GB) but also the greatest number of free Wi-Fi spots (409,185).
3. Spain – high internet penetration rates (94%) and low cost of data ($1.64), low number of free Wi-Fi spots (93,225).
4. France – 93% internet penetration, low cost of data ($0.80), low number of free Wi-Fi spots (57,381).
5. United Kingdom – incredibly high internet penetration rates (98%), low data costs ($1.26), low number of free Wi-Fi spots (53,077).
6. Italy – lowest data costs across all 17 countries ($0.38), 84% internet penetration rate, low number of free Wi-Fi spots (72,680).
7. Thailand – decent internet penetration rates (77.8%), low cost of data ($1.11), low number of free Wi-Fi spots (121,978).
8. Denmark – incredibly high internet penetration rate (99%), very low data costs ($0.72), second-lowest number of free Wi-Fi spots (7,151).
9. Austria – high internet penetration rates (93%), low data costs ($0.98), low number of free Wi-Fi spots (10,616).
10. United Arab Emirates – incredibly high internet penetration rate (99%), comparatively high data costs ($3.43), low number of free Wi-Fi spots (68,930).

Croatia’s the top destination for feeling safe when using your phone on holiday

While cybersecurity and censorship might not be top of mind while you’re on holiday, using your phone abroad can bring with it certain risks. Some countries may severely restrict the type of content you can access via the internet while others may not have online security measures in place. A low internet penetration rate could also mean it’s difficult to contact someone in an emergency. So, in which country are you most safe online?

1. Croatia is the best destination for keeping you safe while using your phone on holiday, with good cybersecurity (92.53) and online censorship scores (1) and a high internet penetration rate (92).

2. The United Kingdom gets second place, scoring 99.54 for cybersecurity, 2 for online censorship and has a near-perfect 99% internet penetration rate (the highest of all countries measured).
3. The United States is in third place with a Global Cybersecurity Index Score of 100, a score of 2 for online censorship and a 98% internet penetration rate.
4. Fourth place Italy also scores 2 for online censorship, alongside 96.13 for cybersecurity and 96% for internet penetration.
5. The Netherlands rounds off the top five, with a score of 2 for online censorship, 97.05 for cybersecurity and 94% for internet penetration.

Showing off to friends at home

One of the perks of being on holiday is posting your travel snaps on social media knowing it’ll make your friends jealous. So, where is it easiest to both access social media and post your photos and videos in real-time? Looking at internet penetration rate, 4G coverage, average mobile internet speed and the countries that get the most posts on social media, the United States comes out on top.

Read more: World’s most and least smartphone-friendly travel destinations

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“People who live around Kasungu National Park depend on tourism and agriculture. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic killed tourism and disrupted rural markets. It was a tragedy for many local people.”

These observations on the effects of the pandemic around Kasungu National Park in Malawi by Malidadi Langa, the chair of the Kasungu Wildlife Conservation for Community Development Association (KAWICCODA), were mirrored elsewhere in the country and on the African continent as travel restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 disrupted local and international tourism and trade in 2020 and 2021.

“Even before COVID-19, tourism wasn’t a silver bullet for poverty reduction. It’s not like these communities were suddenly wealthy from tourism. Many were already struggling,” said Langa, explaining that the small-scale operators participating in the tourism value chain before the pandemic didn’t have the savings to weather the effects of prolonged business interruptions.

“The impact was widespread. People who sell curios, supply produce, and work in lodges suddenly had no income, sometimes not even to buy food for that day. There were tour guides who had to become fishermen. Men and women were cutting trees for charcoal. People were desperate,” said Brighten Ndawala from the Mangochi-Salima Lake Park Association (MASALAPA). The association helps manage the sharing of revenues generated by Lake Malawi National Park with communities living within the park boundaries.

“Eating our assets”

Franciwell Phiri, Managing Director at Small Steps Adventure Tours in Malawi, said, “We almost collapsed as a business. From 10 staff, we were left with three guides who were only paid from activity to activity.” His company also relied heavily on local freelance guides around Malawi, whom they trained and paid per tour “so that they could earn a living from the attractions they and their communities help protect. And wherever we went, we supported the communities by buying their food and produce. We also offered home stays in villages, where guests participate in life as it happens, and communities – especially women – can earn much-needed revenues.”

The travel company struggled with refunds and paying back deposits for cancellations, with Phiri describing borrowing money in Malawi as “impossible” given high-interest rates. “We were eating our assets. We sold and lost things like our own vehicles that we’d worked to pay off over the last 10 years. The scars are deep, and it will take a long time to heal,” said Phiri, who stayed afloat by offering special rates to local travelers and using his knowledge of Malawi’s rich cultural heritage to give presentations and lectures to businesses to bring in small amounts of money.

“We need to get equipment back so we can compete in the market again. Our only hope is for organizations that want to support SMEs. We are happy to pay back loans. We just need favorable terms,” said Phiri.

COVID-19 impacts

In the decade before 2020, international tourism to Malawi was steadily increasing. In 2019, the total contribution of the travel and tourism sector to the country’s GDP was 6.7%, and the sector provided close to 516,200 jobs. But when COVID-19 hit in 2020, tourism’s total contribution to the GDP dropped to 3.2%, with a loss of 167,000 jobs in the travel and tourism sector.

“This is massive. A third of the country’s jobs in this sector were lost, affecting over half a million people who rely on tourism to meet their daily needs,” said WWF’s Nikhil Advani. He is the project manager for the Africa Nature-Based Tourism Platform, which interviewed 50 tourism-related enterprises in Malawi in the months following the pandemic’s start. According to the data collected, none could sustain operations at pre-pandemic levels without urgent funds. “Most stated that they would prefer these funds in the form of soft loans or grants, but the preference for the form of financial support was secondary to how urgently it was required,” noted Advani.

The African Nature-Based Tourism Platform

Launched in 2021 with $1.9 million from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the platform is working with local partners in Malawi and 10 other countries to mobilize at least US$15 million in funding to support the most vulnerable COVID-19 affected communities living in and around protected areas and involved in nature-based tourism. KAWICCODA is the African Nature-Based platform’s partner in Malawi, a country with many natural attractions, like Lake Malawi, national parks, and cultural and historical attractions.

“After completing the data collection phase, the African Nature-Based Tourism Platform also supported KAWICCODA to prepare and submit a funding proposal to the BIOPAMA Medium Grants Facility for an Alternative Livelihoods Project as a direct response to the COVID-19 related collapse of tourism around Kasungu National Park. Whether KAWICCODA is awarded the grant or not, the proposal development process itself was a rare and important learning experience for which KAWICCODA remains grateful to the Platform,” said Langa.

A slow recovery

Although Malawi lifted most travel restrictions – as from 1 June 2022, travelers can enter Malawi with either a vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test – travelers have been slow to return, says Ndwala, who estimates that recent arrivals to Lake Malawi National Park are still at least 80% lower than pre-pandemic.

“I think the big learning point is that most people involved in tourism depended 100% on tourism, and the possibility of it collapsing was not considered, so people were unprepared. Tourism-reliant communities need help making their operations more robust and establishing alternative businesses that can complement tourism. It’s not just about the money. It’s about planning and financial management skills,” said Ndawala.

Nearly 50% of the land in Malawi is already used for agriculture. Still, these markets were also affected by the pandemic, and rural communities had few options to generate revenue to buy food and pay school fees. “Anecdotally, the pandemic did seem to worsen tension between the protected areas and the community. Encroachment and poaching were a natural reaction because people turned to nature to get something from which they could get money or food as soon as possible to survive,” he said.

Malawi is known for its charcoal production, which drives deforestation, as rural people produce bags of burnt wood to sell along the road to truckers to earn a living. And though the World Bank provided US$86 million toward financial support for small and medium enterprises in Malawi in September 2020, those funds only served to alleviate immediate strains caused by the pandemic, and further support is now required (World Bank, 2020).

Staving off hunger

Read more: Malawi needs funds to bolster slow tourism recovery

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Airport parking fees are frequently overlooked while planning a vacation getaway and can end up adding quite an extra expense to already hefty holiday bill.

Some airports are quite more expensive than others, with different parking rates, different maximum time vehicles can park in different lots, and can create a serious headache for holidaymakers in a hurry to catch their flight.

To help travelers to stay relaxed and ready to get their vacation underway, industry experts compared some of the world’s popular travel popular destinations’ busiest airports, to find out which airport has the most expensive and cheapest parking rate for a week’s stay. 

Most expensive airports to park at:

Logan International Airport, Boston was named the sixth most expensive airport to park at, costing you a minimum of $203 for a week’s stay. The sixth busiest airport in the US covers 2,384 acres and employs an estimated 16,000 people. 

The most expensive airport for long-term parking is Hamad International Airport, the principal airport in the Qatari capital Doha. Parking here for a whole week will cost you at least $278.77. This is $262.72 more than the cheapest airport in the study.

Serving over twenty-seven million passengers a year, the second most expensive airport is London Stansted Airport. Parking for a full week at Stansted will cost you a minimum of $263.66 (£210).

Airports with the lowest weekly rates:

Los Angeles International Airport (otherwise known as LAX) was found to be the seventh cheapest airport to park at. Setting you back a small $35 for a week’s stay, LAX is the second largest airport in the US and the only airport in the world that all three US legacy carriers (American, Delta, and United) have chosen as a hub.

The airport with the lowest daily parking rate is Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul, where a full week’s parking can cost as little as $16.05.

Second place was also taken by Istanbul Atatürk Airport, the second Turkish airport on the list. The airport is only marginally more expensive than its competitor on the European side of the city, and nearly $9 cheaper than third place. 

Taking third place is Suvarnabhumi Airport, one of the biggest airports in Southeast Asia and one of two airports serving Bangkok. The airport charges a minimum of $28.60 for a week’s parking, nearly twice as cheap as Thailand’s second airport Don Mueang International.

Further study findings:

Read more: World’s most and least expensive airport parking

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