The Travel Top 10

EDITOR’S NOTE

Our Prediction For Travel in 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, the travel industry seems to be tightening its seatbelt for a bumpier ride, with trends suggesting fewer jaunts and thriftier travelers. This cautious forecast is stitched together from various indicators, such as the faltering duty-free sales and sobering corporate outlooks. Take Estee Lauder, which is seeing its once-buoyant Asian travel retail segment start to deflate—a key driver for those airport shopping sprees. Then there's Southwest Airlines, which, despite boasting $7.4 billion in operating revenues, can't seem to shake off the turbulence. CEO Bob Jordan's candid acknowledgment of challenges from "external and internal factors" serves as a stark reminder that even high flyers aren't immune to economic headwinds. For travel companies, it’s less about strapping in for growth and more about navigating through a fiscal fog. This looming scenario paints a clear picture: as 2025 approaches, expect travel strategies to shift from expansion to preservation, mirroring the cautious steps of passengers tightening their belts.

AIRLINE NEWS

American Airlines Soars To New Heights This Summer

This summer, American Airlines is setting trends in the aviation industry with several forward-thinking initiatives. They've launched a collaborative fundraising campaign with Stand Up To Cancer, enhancing their social impact while rewarding donors with AAdvantage® miles. In a move towards modernizing inflight services, American has transitioned to contactless payments exclusively, supporting both hygiene and convenience. Furthermore, the airline pioneers in-flight entertainment by partnering with Audible, offering passengers access to an extensive library of exclusive audio content. This suite of enhancements not only improves the travel experience but also positions American Airlines at the forefront of industry innovations, catering to the evolving needs and preferences of modern travelers.

OUTDOOR NEWS

Rivian Launches New Travel Kitchen - Perfect for Camping

Rivian enhances the outdoor culinary experience with the introduction of the Rivian Travel Kitchen, a portable induction cooktop that seamlessly integrates with Rivian vehicles. Perfect for any travel destination, from remote landscapes to local parks, this innovative kitchen setup features a fold-out design with two induction burners, customizable lighting, and sustainable accessories. Available now for $1,400, the Travel Kitchen promises to elevate outdoor dining by combining convenience with environmental consciousness, making it an essential accessory for any adventurer looking to blend exploration with gourmet cooking.

STAYING IN STYLE

New Trends In Hotels For Summer 2024

Hilton Honors, Hilton's prestigious loyalty program, is enticing travelers with more luxurious stay options and exciting new ways to earn points. By incorporating nearly 400 Small Luxury Hotels of the World into its network, members now have access to exclusive boutique experiences globally. The new Power Up Promotion allows members to gain 2,500 Bonus Points on stays from September 3 to December 31, 2024. Additionally, a collaboration with Lyft offers U.S. and Canadian members the chance to earn 1,500 Bonus Points by linking their accounts and taking five rides. These promotions, aimed at enhancing the travel experience, are available for pre-registration starting today.

As Wellness Month continues this August, The St. Regis Atlanta is setting a new standard for relaxation and rejuvenation in Buckhead. The hotel's St. Regis Spa has introduced the Ready to Soleil-All-Day Bag, a collection of high-end skincare products from Soleil Toujours, available through the hotel's unique Butler Service. This comes alongside their resort-style pool and a range of wellness treatments, including the therapeutic Sound Bowl Therapy and holistic Reiki sessions. Located near luxury shopping destinations like Phipps Plaza and Buckhead Village, and featuring top-tier dining options, The St. Regis Atlanta offers a comprehensive wellness experience that caters to both the body and spirit, promising a revitalizing stay for all guests.

Tuxon Ranch in Hesperus, Colorado, is redefining equestrian tourism with the launch of its state-of-the-art equestrian center, designed to cater to both local and visiting horse enthusiasts. Spanning 115 acres with breathtaking views of the La Plata Mountains, this center offers comprehensive facilities including full-service boarding, guest lodging, and vast spaces for community and professional events. Under the new ownership of John Harper, Tuxon Ranch has transformed into a hub for equestrian activities, providing everything from competitive arenas to educational programs in partnership with local schools. With its extensive facilities and beautiful trails, Tuxon Ranch is poised to become a key destination for equestrian sports and leisure in Southwest Colorado, combining high-quality horse care with unique recreational opportunities.

Vakkaru Maldives invites you to experience the Vakkaru Dream Getaway offer, providing up to 35% discounts on their award-winning resort in the UNESCO-listed Baa Atoll. This exclusive promotion includes complimentary stays and dining for two children under 12, significant savings on island activities and seaplane transfers, and a variety of dining experiences. Available until December 22, 2024, the offer is perfect for both short breaks and extended vacations with family or friends. Experience unparalleled luxury amid spectacular sea life and pristine beaches at the Indian Ocean's Leading Resort.

Finally, this summer, Disney Cruise Line is set to captivate travelers with the launch of the Disney Destiny, a new ship inspired by iconic heroes and villains, embarking from Fort Lauderdale in late 2025. The Disney Destiny will feature groundbreaking themed experiences such as the “Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King” restaurant and “Edna Á La Mode Sweets” shop from The Incredibles, alongside hero-worthy accommodations and casual cafes inspired by Disney and Pixar classics. Each element aboard the Disney Destiny is meticulously crafted to immerse guests in the narratives of their favorite characters while offering luxurious comfort and innovative entertainment. This addition to the Disney fleet represents a significant step in Disney Cruise Line's expansion, emphasizing creative storytelling and thematic innovations that elevate the cruising experience.