Costa Rica, known for its spectacular biodiversity and stunning landscapes, has welcomed a prestigious addition to its luxury hospitality scene with the opening of Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve on the Papagayo Peninsula. This elegant resort, which derives its name from the Chorotega word for „lush garden,“ embodies the rich customs of the indigenous Chorotega people
The luxury travel industry presents unique opportunities and challenges, especially when it comes to catering to affluent clients seeking extravagant experiences. As more travel advisors explore the high-end market, understanding the nuances of what drives six-figure trip bookings becomes crucial. Industry experts, like Julie Shifrin and Janelle Ruhumuliza, showcase varied approaches in their practices, yet
In the world of high-end travel, the clientele that books six-figure vacations is as diverse as the trips themselves. Unlike conventional travelers who seek broad accommodations and amenities, clients in this exclusive category often have specific requests shaped by years of professional success and personal triumph. They are typically affluent individuals in their late 50s
In a notable development within the aviation industry, five major U.S. airlines, alongside the trade organization Airlines for America (A4A), have filed a petition with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. The objective is to contest certain federal regulations aimed at enhancing protections for passengers who utilize wheelchairs. This legal assertion, made
In the crowded world of culinary oils, few products have captured the enthusiasm and loyalty of home cooks quite like Graza. Renowned for its stylish green squeeze bottles, Graza has made a name for itself with two flagship products: Sizzle and Drizzle, each curated for specific culinary uses. Now, Graza is expanding its repertoire with
In recent months, a stark decline in consumer confidence has sent ripples through the American food landscape. This condition, marked by the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index hitting its lowest point since June 2024, is compelling consumers to rethink their approach to food—what they buy, where they dine, and how they allocate their budgets. Increasing
In recent years, Palma, the capital of Mallorca, has emerged as a beacon for American travelers seeking both adventure and cultural richness. The U.S. now stands as the fastest-growing market for tourism in this Mediterranean gem, reflecting a significant 17% increase in visitor numbers year-over-year since 2023. According to tourism officials, this uptick is indicative
The cruise industry has exhibited notable resilience as it enters a robust Wave season in 2023. Patrick Scholes, an analyst with Truist Securities, indicates that the upward trend in pricing has been significant, surpassing mid to high single digits compared to the same period last year. This indicates a market with strong pricing power, a
Breeze Travel Solutions has introduced an innovative booking platform tailored for the Caribbean region, named Caribbean Travel & Tours (CTT). This platform aims to streamline the travel booking process, effectively addressing a persistent issue faced by travelers and travel advisors alike—the fragmentation of information and resources when planning Caribbean vacations. By consolidating accommodations, flights, and
Traveling is a beloved pastime for many, but the often-dreaded chore of packing can put a damper on the excitement. Imagine the freedom of traveling light, thanks to innovative services offered by hotels that are embracing a new trend aimed at enhancing guest experiences. As noted by Henley Vazquez, founder of the travel agency Fora,
The U.S. hospitality industry is at a crossroads, grappling with an unprecedented shortage of workers that threatens to disrupt operations across hotels and restaurants. The current labor shortage, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has showcased the fragility of the workforce, which predominantly depends on a mix of legal and undocumented immigrants. As the Trump administration
The cruise industry is in a constant state of evolution, with annual trends influencing consumer behaviors and business strategies alike. One pivotal period is the Wave Season, a time characterized by significant sales and promotional offers that stimulate booking rates. Traditionally considered to commence in January, there’s a growing debate about whether this season extends
The U.S. Travel Association has ushered in a new chapter with the appointment of William Hornbuckle as the national chair of its board of directors. As the president and CEO of MGM Resorts International, Hornbuckle brings with him a wealth of experience and insights crucial for navigating the complexities of the travel industry. His two-year
In an intriguing study conducted by Instacart, a closer look at America’s sauce consumption reveals a vibrant tapestry of preferences that vary significantly across the nation. With an abundance of restaurants venturing into the jarred sauce domain, the competition to captivate consumers has only intensified. This article delves into the findings of the study, outlining
The United Kingdom’s hospitality sector is at a pivotal crossroads, recently stirred by a powerful open letter from seventy female chefs that reveals the pervasive sexism and harassment embedded within the industry. In contrast to the experiences of countless women in the field, Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton’s claim of not witnessing sexism in kitchens underscores
Kate McCue, a name synonymous with maritime excellence and a beacon of inspiration in the cruise industry, has announced her departure from Celebrity Cruises. As the first American woman to captain a large cruise ship, her tenure not only broke gender barriers but also set a new standard in leadership at sea. With two decades
The introduction of New Distribution Capability (NDC) has marked a significant shift in the way airlines and travel agencies conduct their business. Accelya, a leader in this domain, reported a remarkable growth in NDC volumes, which more than doubled in the past year. Industry giants such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Lufthansa have embraced
In the aftermath of the catastrophic wildfires that engulfed Maui in 2023, the Hawaiian island is making concerted efforts to revive its tourism sector. Over 18 months since the devastating event, the state government has announced a substantial investment in marketing efforts aimed at jump-starting Maui’s struggling economy. With $6.3 million earmarked for this purpose,
The world of spirits has always been rich in history and tradition, but the emergence of new competitions like the John Barleycorn Awards has added a fresh layer of excitement in recent years. With less than ten years in operation, this competition has quickly become one of the most respected platforms for recognizing outstanding spirits.
The travel industry is constantly evolving, with companies continuously seeking innovative ways to enhance customer experiences. One of the notable developments in luxury cruising is the collaboration between Crystal, a once-renowned cruise line, and Abercrombie & Kent (A&K), a prestigious name in high-end travel experiences. Almost three years after A&K acquired Crystal, this partnership is
Plitvice Lakes National Park, situated in Croatia, is often touted as one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Europe. This national treasure is characterized by its stunning network of cascading waterfalls and vibrant emerald lakes that shimmer under the sun’s warm embrace. With its unparalleled beauty, this park not only draws travelers from various
R Collection Hotels, a prominent name in the luxury hospitality sector, is enhancing its portfolio by acquiring the exquisite Bianca Relais, a boutique hotel that embodies the charm of Northern Italy. Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Annone, the property benefits from its stunning backdrop of the Prealps, drawing visitors with its serene landscape
Blue foods, which encompass fish, shellfish, and various aquatic organisms, are an essential component of the global food system. More than 3 billion individuals across the globe rely on these resources for crucial nutrients and protein. Furthermore, approximately 800 million people derive their livelihoods from blue food systems, reflecting their importance not just in nutrition,
In the wake of significant geopolitical tensions and conflict, Israel is on a slow but determined path toward revitalizing its tourism industry. Following the violent outbreak initiated by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which severely disrupted leisure travel to the region, American airlines like United and Delta have signaled their intentions to restore flight services.
In the realm of travel agency services, air bookings have traditionally played a secondary role, relying on an outdated mindset that prioritizes more lucrative offerings such as ocean cruises and all-inclusive resorts. Recent data reveals that merely 11% of an agency’s total gross bookings stem from air travel, according to a survey by Travel Weekly.
In the culinary world, few brands resonate like Tajín, a chili spice blend that has taken Mexico and the United States by storm. At the helm of this iconic brand is Horacio Fernández, who has successfully crafted a business empire around a simple idea: enhancing the flavor of food with chili. Fernández’s journey is not
The anticipation for the opening of Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, is building as Universal unveils a vibrant world designed specifically for young adventurers. Set to launch next year, this immersive park promises an array of whimsical, family-friendly attractions that engage children’s imaginations. From the quirky antics of beloved animated characters to thrilling dinosaur
The love for Girl Scout cookies, particularly the iconic Thin Mints, transcends generational boundaries. Many who grew up indulging in these chocolate-covered mint delights have likely reminisced about the bliss of biting into a frozen Thin Mint. Now, with Wendy’s entry into the world of this beloved cookie, a new culinary adventure awaits. Beginning February
As the world gears up to commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8, a significant milestone has been achieved in the whiskey sector, particularly for women in the industry. Marlene Holmes, a master distiller at Milam & Greene Whiskey, has been inducted into the prestigious Whisky Magazine’s Hall of Fame. This recognition cements her status
The cruise industry has long enjoyed a favorable tax climate, often operating under flags of convenience such as Liberia or Panama. These choices have allowed cruise operators to circumvent U.S. taxation, maintaining significant profits while contributing minimally to federal revenues. Recently, comments from U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick suggest that this might change. Highlighting
Imagine a paradise where azure waters kiss golden beaches, and the air is imbued with a sense of tranquility that melts all your worries away. This dream is not just a figment of imagination; it is the reality at Tokoriki Island Resort, located in the stunning Mamanuca Islands of Fiji. This adults-only haven stands out
As the United States braces for a significant influx of international visitors over the next decade, urgent modernization of the nation’s air travel infrastructure is not just advisable; it is essential. Forecasts indicate that high-profile global events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and America’s 250th anniversary, could lead
Karisma Hotels & Resorts is at the forefront of enhancing the group travel experience with the introduction of its W.I.S.E. program, which stands for Weddings, Incentives, Social, and Entertainment. This initiative is designed specifically to simplify the group booking process for meeting planners and travel advisors. With the increasing complexity of group arrangements, Karisma has
The saga of the new Air Force One has become a symbol of frustration for President Donald Trump as he confronts significant delays associated with the Boeing 747 jets intended to serve as the official presidential aircraft. Initially negotiated at a staggering $4 billion during his first term, these jets are now facing substantial cost
The world of credit card rewards can feel like a double-edged sword; while enticing benefits beckon consumers to the promise of free travel or cashback, many users leave these perks unclaimed each year. With survey data indicating that a staggering 25% of Americans failed to redeem their rewards in the past year, it’s vital to
In the fiercely competitive landscape of the aviation industry, JetBlue Airways finds itself at a crossroads. Recent legal setbacks have created obstacles for the airline, yet JetBlue’s leadership remains steadfast in its quest for growth through strategic partnerships. President Marty St. George’s remarks at a Barclays industry conference highlighted ongoing discussions with „multiple airlines“ aiming
The vibrant culinary scene in New York City is about to get even more exciting with Tacombi’s latest addition to its menu: birria ramen. Set to unveil this fusion dish on February 20, the popular taqueria, renowned for its authentic Mexican flavors, is taking a page out of the playbook of culinary mashups that have
The landscape of employment is undergoing a transformative shift as more women participate in the on-demand economy, particularly in the United States. With the release of a new report by INSHUR, a commercial insurance provider, in collaboration with Censuswide, we gain insightful data into the motivations and demographics of female drivers working for on-demand platforms.
The allure of traveling to Thailand is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, fueled in part by the cultural phenomenon of „The White Lotus,“ which premiered on February 16. Despite the fact that the hotel’s setting in the series is a figment of imagination, it has captivated audiences and triggered a fresh wave of interest in actual
Universal Orlando Resort is set to elevate the excitement with the introduction of a brand new event, Universal Volcano Bay Nights. This unique after-hours experience is tailored specifically for waterpark enthusiasts, offering an exclusive opportunity to enjoy the attractions after the regular park hours. Scheduled for select dates—April 12 and 26, as well as May