D/R DOWNLOAD 2.9
What’s Trending
01/ On Google
“Road scholar travel” trended +100% this week, as the spring application closes in just a few weeks. Road Scholar is a popular, educational-driven nonprofit tour company touring 7 different continents and 100 countries.
02/ With Media
This week, media were interested in luxury aviation experiences, sustainability initiatives, Michelin-starred dining, cycling trips, and more.
Expedia and Netflix have entered a global advertising partnership, with Expedia becoming Netflix's first global partner in its ad-supported plan. The campaign, which will highlight Expedia’s price-tracking features, will debut in Japan and expand to other countries such as the US, the UK, Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, Australia, and Brazil.
03/ In the Zeitgeist
This week, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer. Though the Palace is often very private, the King wanted to share his diagnosis to avoid speculation on his condition.
Industry Insights
Over 140 passengers and crew members have been affected by a gastrointestinal illness on the Cunard cruise ship Queen Victoria. While the cause of the illness is unknown, the cruise line has implemented enhanced cleaning and safety protocols.
Travelers should prepare for cancellations, delays, and inconveniences as air travel disruptions are predicted to remain at historically high levels.
Two JetBlue planes collided on the tarmac at Boston Logan International Airport, causing damage to both aircraft. There were no injuries and investigations are underway to determine the cause of the incident.
Rat tourism has become a popular trend fueled by social media. Cities with high rat populations, such as New York and Chicago, have seen an increase in visitors who are intrigued by rat-related attractions and tours.
The Forbes Travel Guide's 2024 Star Awards revealed that the Middle East has outperformed other regions in terms of gaining new five-star hotels, with Dubai leading by adding five new five-star properties.
A volcano in Iceland has erupted for the second time this year, spewing lava and causing disruptions in the Reykjanes peninsula. The eruption has led to the closure of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, disrupted the hot water supply for over 20,000 people, and raised concerns about the proximity of the lava to a nearby power plant.
Delta has announced new ‘premium lounges’ will be placed in the JFK, Boston, and Los Angeles airports, featuring a chef’s kitchen, wellness area, and an outdoor terrace. Guidelines as to who can experience these premium lounges are still being finalized.
The Good
Margaritaville at Sea is offering free sailings to military members, teachers, first responders and more, through its “Heroes” program. Perks include priority embarkation, complimentary beverages, and expedited booking assistance.
United Airlines promotes its no-change fees policy in a Super Bowl ad campaign, highlighting the convenience it provides to travelers. The campaign aims to attract customers by emphasizing the airline's flexible approach to flight changes.
The Bad
Southern California remains under high alert as a deadly storm lingers and causes flooding, mudslides, and fatalities.
