D/R DOWNLOAD 9.6
What’s Trending
01/ On Google
“Vacation Loans” trended 80% this week, in line with the rising trend of travelers going into debt to vacation.
02/ With Media
These past two weeks, media were interested in unique fall travel and leaf-peeping opportunities, top sunset destinations in the United States, the best bathtubs in the world, astrotourism experiences, the best experiences in the Caribbean, and more.
Cosmopolitan is on track to enter a new era, recruiting former Highsnobiety’s editor Willa Bennett as their new editor-in-chief. Bennett is well-connected in the industry and has previous experience at GQ for social media.
03/ In the Zeitgeist
In Wyoming's Yellowstone and Jackson Hole areas, a new Instagram filter alerts users when they’re too close to wildlife, influencing how people interact with animals and raising awareness about the impact on animal behavior and visitor safety.
Hailey Bieber and her beauty brand Rhode were praised after she personally addressed influencer Golloria George's concerns about Rhode’s blush shades on darker skin. Golloria’s viral TikTok highlighted the blushes as “ashy,” prompting Hailey to reach out, take responsibility, offer compensation for “shade consulting,” and send improved blush shades.
Industry Insights
Over Labor Day weekend, about 10,000 unionized hotel workers across 24 properties nationwide went on strike after contract negotiations stalled. This impacted major hotel chains including Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott in several cities.
The World Travel & Tourism Council announced that the United States is the world’s most powerful Travel and Tourism market after contributing $2.36 trillion to the nation’s economy last year. WTTC anticipates travel and tourism investment will return to pre-pandemic levels by 2025.
In a recent report by Hopper, summer 2024 travel trends include a rise in luxury and experiential travel, with many travelers seeking unique and high-end experiences. Additionally, there is a growing preference for sustainable tourism and a focus on wellness and health during trips.
For autumn 2024, key travel trends include an emphasis on wellness retreats, with travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation; a rise in immersive cultural experiences, such as cooking classes and local traditions; and a growing interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations to avoid crowded tourist spots and engage with authentic local cultures.
Flash Pack has introduced a new line of alcohol-free itineraries in response to the rising sober travel trend for solo travelers with destinations in Iceland, Bali, and Puerto Rico. These trips are planned to begin in January and will include experiences like mocktail tastings, hikes, kayaking, and more, all while remaining alcohol-free.
The EU is implementing new hand luggage rules to create more consistent policies across airlines. The changes focus on standardizing the size and weight limits for carry-on bags, as well as the fees associated with them to avoid travelers facing any surprises when flying within Europe.
In 2024, global travel spending is expected to hit a record high, contributing $11.1 trillion to global GDP, a 12.1% year-over-year increase. The travel industry will support nearly 348 million jobs.
New Zealand has more than doubled its tax on international tourists. The tax hike is part of the country’s efforts to manage the environmental impact of tourism and fund sustainable tourism infrastructure.
This summer, European cities experienced a growth in backlash against tourism as locals became increasingly frustrated with overcrowding, rising costs, and disruption of daily life. Some cities are implementing measures to manage tourism more sustainably including Seville, Venice, and others.
Officials in Rome are contemplating limiting access to the famous Trevi Fountain due to overtourism in the area. The fountain will most likely be free to residents while everyone else will be asked to make a monetary donation before entering to ensure the protection of the monument.
This November, Greenland is set to open an international airport in Nuuk, its capital, aiming to attract more visitors. Previously, travel to Greenland was difficult due to limited capacity for larger commercial jets and the need for several connecting flights.
A volcanic eruption in Indonesia has caused hikers to flee as lava and ash spewed from the mountain. The eruption has prompted emergency responses and warnings for nearby residents due to the hazardous conditions.
The Good
In Wyoming's Yellowstone and Jackson Hole areas, a new Instagram filter alerts users when they’re too close to wildlife, influencing how people interact with animals and raising awareness about the impact on animal behavior and visitor safety.
Hailey Bieber and her beauty brand Rhode were praised after she personally addressed influencer Golloria George's concerns about Rhode’s blush shades on darker skin. Golloria’s viral TikTok highlighted the blushes as “ashy,” prompting Hailey to reach out, take responsibility, offer compensation for “shade consulting,” and send improved blush shades.
