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What does the future of hospitality look like in an AI-driven world? Join David Millili at ITB Berlin for a deep dive into the future of hospitality technology with Darko Bosancic, Senior Vice President of Travel & Hospitality at Sirma. In this episode, we explore how hotels can move beyond fragmented tech stacks, leverage AI agents, and build connected ecosystems that enhance operations, guest experiences, and data security.In this episode, you'll learn about:How AI agents are transforming hotel operations and guest communicationsStrategies for integrating multiple hotel technology systems without disruptionWays to scale tech platforms globally while maintaining data security and complianceHow Sirma acts as an “embedded technology partner” to accelerate innovationWhat autonomous AI agents could mean for the future of hotel management Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2DVQYIqP9Ok Links:Darko on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darkobosancic/Sirma: https://sirma.com/Sirma.AI Enterprise: https://sirma.ai/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/256Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.
El sector del turismo anticipa un trasvase de viajeros hacia España por el conflicto en Oriente Próximo. TUI, el mayor turoperador de Europa, prevé que España se beneficie del recelo de los viajeros hacia destinos como Egipto y Turquía por la inestabilidad regional.El Ayuntamiento de Madrid trabaja en un Plan Especial que permitirá implantar apartamentos turísticos, pensiones y modalidades como el flex living en determinados suelos industriales de la ciudad, donde hasta ahora solo se autorizaban hoteles. La medida afectaría a 248 ubicaciones en ocho distritos y busca ampliar la oferta de alojamiento de corta y media estancia y redistribuir el turismo fuera del centro.Binter amplía su conectividad aérea este verano, reforzando rutas entre Canarias y Baleares, Galicia, Valencia, Madeira y Azores. La programación incluye nuevas frecuencias hacia Menorca y Mallorca, más vuelos diarios con Vigo y A Coruña, y conexiones con Tenerife y Gran Canaria, además de adelantar la temporada de vuelos a Azores y aumentar la oferta con Madeira, adaptándose a la demanda estival.Valencia ha sido reconocida como la mejor ciudad del mundo para viajes sénior en un ranking del portal de seguros de viaje All Clear, que ha evaluado factores como seguridad, accesibilidad, servicios sanitarios, contaminación, espacios verdes y oferta cultural. Además, la ciudad también figura entre las veinte más limpias del mundo según la plataforma Radical Storage.El turoperador DERTOUR Group señaló en ITB Berlin 2026 que las reservas de verano en Europa crecen un 4 %, impulsadas especialmente por destinos del Mediterráneo oriental como Egipto y Turquía, que destacan por su competitiva relación calidad-precio. España se mantiene como el tercer destino más demandado por los viajeros europeos, mientras que el precio y la seguridad del destino ganan peso en la decisión de viaje.
Google is pushing luggage tracking deeper into airline baggage systems, giving travelers a new way to share live bag location data directly with carriers. Accor is sounding the alarm from ITB Berlin, warning the industry not to let AI flatten hotel differentiation or hand the guest relationship to third-party interfaces. And Expedia is describing a dramatic internal pivot, tightening performance metrics and costs while doubling down on machine learning and AI to defend its position as distribution competition intensifies. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why the real battleground is the interface — who owns the relationship, the data, and the moment of travel need. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
Die ITB Berlin, een van die wêreld se grootste toerismeskoue, sluit vandag af en Namibië is goed verteenwoordig. Byna 6 000 uitstallers van meer as 160 lande het duisende besoekers hanteer. Die Namibiese Toerismeraad het die nasionale paviljoen gelei, ondersteun deur 'n verskeidenheid plaaslike toerisme-ondernemings en toeroperateurs. Elzanne McCulloch, die besturende direkteur van Venture Media wat ook by die skou verteenwoordig is, het met Kosmos 94.1 Nuus gesels.
Die ITB Berlin, een van die wêreld se grootste toerismeskoue, sluit vandag af. Die Namibiese Toerismeraad het die nasionale paviljoen gelei, ondersteun deur 20 mede-uitstallers. Kosmos 94.1 Nuus het met Matthias Lemcke, die direkteur van Europa by die raad gepraat.
Die ITB Berlin, een van die wêreld se grootste toerismeskoue, sluit vandag af. Die Namibiese Toerismeraad het die nasionale paviljoen gelei, ondersteun deur 20 mede-uitstallers. Kosmos 94.1 Nuus het met Matthias Lemcke, die direkteur van Europa by die raad gepraat.
On this week's Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast Hotels Edition, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk dive into the latest forces shaping travel and hospitality in 2026. They begin with a closer look at why ignoring the Canadian travel market is starting to carry real economic consequences for brands and destinations. From there, they explore the state of AI in travel, including why many travel brands are building “AI agents” for consumer behaviors that don't yet exist and how the incoming Claude AI model is already influencing travel tech development. The conversation then turns to industry infrastructure as Sabre announces a rebrand at ITB Berlin and Hyatt reports limited direct impact from recent violence in Mexico while acknowledging broader challenges in global markets. As always, they close with the Unhinged Story of the Week, featuring a traveler whose hotel room was taken to an unforgettable, and extremely gross, extreme. It's a fast-paced episode that spans demand strategy, cutting-edge technology, and the strange side of travel life.
On this week's Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast Hotels Edition, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk dive into the latest forces shaping travel and hospitality in 2026. They begin with a closer look at why ignoring the Canadian travel market is starting to carry real economic consequences for brands and destinations. From there, they explore the state of AI in travel, including why many travel brands are building “AI agents” for consumer behaviors that don't yet exist and how the incoming Claude AI model is already influencing travel tech development. The conversation then turns to industry infrastructure as Sabre announces a rebrand at ITB Berlin and Hyatt reports limited direct impact from recent violence in Mexico while acknowledging broader challenges in global markets. As always, they close with the Unhinged Story of the Week, featuring a traveler whose hotel room was taken to an unforgettable, and extremely gross, extreme. It's a fast-paced episode that spans demand strategy, cutting-edge technology, and the strange side of travel life.
Today the doors open for the 60th edition of ITB Berlin. Deborah Rothe and David Ruetz look ahead to the trends, highlights and special anniversary moments, and spotlight host country Angola. Tune in for your essential Morning Briefing and get ready for an inspiring first day!
La ITB Berlin arranca marcada por la ausencia de profesionales de Oriente Próximo, Asia y Oceanía debido al conflicto en la región, aunque reúne a 6.000 expositores y más de 100.000 visitantes. En paralelo, el mercado alemán demuestra solidez con un gasto turístico récord de 88.000 millones de euros y una clara preferencia por destinos que combinan cultura, naturaleza y gastronomía, con España y el sur de Europa entre los favoritos.GEBTA ha incorporado a Bestours, reforzando la representación del segmento mediano de agencias de viajes de negocio y elevando su cobertura sectorial por encima del 85% del mercado. Fundada en 1987 y especializada en viajes corporativos, reuniones y eventos, Bestours facturó cerca de 100 millones de euros en 2025, en un contexto de creciente consolidación del sector.Renfe creará una empresa de autobuses participada para garantizar los Planes Alternativos de Transporte (PAT) ante suspensiones del servicio ferroviario, reduciendo la dependencia de operadores externos. La iniciativa permitirá disponer de flota y personal propios, optimizar costes y asegurar una respuesta ágil ante incidencias, con un ahorro estimado de 90 a 130 millones de euros en diez años.El Aeropuerto de Palma de Mallorca ha sido identificado como el más económico de Europa para aparcamientos de larga estancia, con una tarifa de 36 euros por siete días, según un estudio de VignetteSwitzerland.com. España sitúa además a los aeropuertos de Madrid, Barcelona y Málaga, entre los diez más asequibles del continente, con precios muy por debajo de otros grandes hubs europeos.
Edición del 3 de marzo Intervienen: Resumen de la actualidad con Diego Calvo Opinión con José Luis Figueroa Espacio Puerto de la Cruz en ITB Berlin. Leopoldo Afonso, alcalde de Puerto de la Cruz Historia de Canarias con Pepe Tejero Espacio Una isla de libros Opinión con Javier Abreu Tertulia con Antonio Alarcó, Juan Carlos Continue reading La entrada Las mañanas aparece primero en Gente Radio.
In the latest episode of the ITB Travel Hero Podcast, Lea Jordan speaks with Kathrin Anselm, General Manager Central & Eastern Europe at Airbnb. As Airbnb joins ITB Berlin 2026 as official Co-Host — in the year of ITB's 60th anniversary — Kathrin shares her perspective on how travel is evolving, what balanced tourism means in practice, and how Airbnb plans to engage with the industry in Berlin. The conversation also offers a preview of her upcoming Executive Fireside at the ITB Marketing & Distribution Track, hosted by Lea Jordan
Tophotel Today – Der Wochenrückblick vom 27.02.2026 mit diesen Themen: 1. Doppelschlag von Motel One in Frankfurt 2. ITB Berlin steht in den Startlöchern 3. Sebastian Holtz wird CEO der Block Gruppe
Which hospitality events should YOU be attending in 2026? In this episode, David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with John Burns, President of Hospitality Technology Consulting, to review the top hospitality events of 2026. From tech expos to independent hotel shows, cruise industry summits, and AI-focused conferences, we cover what's happening, who should attend, and why these events are game-changers for hoteliers, developers, and investors. In this episode, we cover:The global power of ITB Berlin and why it's more than just a trade show.Networking gold at Hunter Conference Atlanta and what makes it a must-attend.Insider tips from HFTP Executive Vendor Summit, AAHOA Philadelphia, Sea Trade Cruise Summit, and more.How direct bookings and AI are shaking up the hotel industry.Whether you're a hotel owner, operator, developer, or just love staying ahead in hospitality, this episode is your roadmap for networking, learning, and making deals happen.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UbP3xSHCc-M Links:John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-burns-1a6139/Hospitality Technology Consulting: https://www.burns-htc.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/252Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.
"Von 'Kärcher-Fantasien' in der Politik bis hin zu den dunklen Spuren eines Weltklasse-Kriminellen mitten in Hamburg – heute wird es brisant."
Dieses Mal geht es um mich, um travelholics.media und um ein altes Auto. Und es ist wohl die ungewöhnlichste Episode, die ich bisher veröffentlicht habe. Aber es hat Spaß gemacht, sich dem neuen travelholics Projekt, dem mobilen Studio auf der ITB, auf neuen Wegen zu nähern. Jetzt bei mir selbst zu Gast und wir sehen uns in Halle 6.1, Stand 224. Travelholics hört ihr überall: Spotify, Apple Podcasts und allen gängigen Plattformen. Wenn euch die Episode gefällt: Folgen/Abonnieren, Bewertung dalassen und gern teilen – das hilft, die Gespräche der Touristik sichtbar zu machen. Danke und Auf Weiterhören Roman Borch, Podcaster & Producer
In the latest episode of the ITB Berlin Travel Hero Podcast, host Dirk Rogl welcomes Stephen Kaufer (Founder of TripAdvisor) and Lorraine Sileo (Co-Founder of Phocuswright Research) for a special 60th anniversary conversation. From the rise of reviews as a global trust layer to AI as the next major inflection point: what will truly change travel planning and booking — and what still won't? Tune in now.
Was macht eine internationale Leitmesse heute erfolgreich und warum ist die ITB Berlin relevanter denn je? In dieser Episode spricht Petra Hedorfer, Vorstandsvorsitzende der Deutschen Zentrale für Tourismus, mit Deborah Rothe, Exhibition Director der ITB Berlin, über die Rolle von Messen im globalen Wettbewerb um Aufmerksamkeit, Märkte und Wertschöpfung. Im Fokus: 60 Jahre ITB Berlin, der Wandel von der klassischen Fachmesse zur ganzjährigen Plattform, neue globale ITB-Formate von Asien bis Amerika – und die Frage, warum persönliche Begegnungen gerade in einer digitalisierten Welt unverzichtbar bleiben. Eine Episode über Netzwerke, Transformation, Effizienz und die Zukunft des internationalen Messestandorts Deutschland.
Send Rita a text with your thoughts!Get me as your personal photographer at Summer Camp at Sea: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/summer-camp-at-sea/By popular demand, I'm breaking down the ultimate travel industry events calendar because I know you're trying to figure out which conferences actually deserve your time and money. From ASTA's big conference in San Diego to Summer Camp at Sea in Alaska, I'm walking you through host agency events, consortium gatherings, supplier showcases, and those invitation-only luxury events like ILTM that you need on your radar. Plus I'm sharing where to actually find these events beyond just stumbling across them in Facebook groups, including some free resources that'll save you hours of Googling. Questions this episode answers:When is ASTA Travel Advisor Conference 2026?What is Host Week and when does it happen?When is CLIA Cruise360 2026?What are the best networking events for travel advisors?Where can travel advisors find supplier events and FAM trips?What is the difference between host agency events and consortium events?When is National Travel Advisor Day 2026?What travel conferences happen in Florida for travel agents?When is the ASTA River Cruise Expo 2026?What is ILTM and how do luxury travel advisors get invited?Are there virtual events for travel advisors in 2026?What is Seatrade and should travel advisors attend?When is Summer Camp at Sea 2026?What are Peninsula Shows for travel agents?Where can new travel advisors find educational conferences?What is GTM West for travel advisors?When is National Plan for Vacation Day 2026?What travel blogging conferences should travel advisors know about?What is ASTA Legislative Day and how can travel advisors participate?Are there travel industry events for cruise specialists?What is the Women in Travel Summit?When is the Romance Travel Forum 2026?What networking events exist for Black travel professionals?Where can travel advisors find local ASTA chapter events?What is FyndTravel and how does it help travel advisors find events?Should travel advisors attend tourism trade shows like ITB Berlin?Enjoy (and take action)!--------------------------------------------------------------- Rita M. Perez (Host) first began in the travel industry as a travel advisor in 2010. She only fully realized her role as a travel entrepreneur in 2018, and embarked on a mission to support her fellow travel advisors in 2021 when she began the Strategic Travel Entrepreneur Podcast. She now consults and strategizes with travel entrepreneurs, so they, too, can be empowered in travel entrepreneurship. She's on a mission to help travel advisors grow profitable travel businesses that are sustainable to their individual lifestyles and needs. Check out EVERYTHING I offer to support your travel business journey: https://strategictravelentrepreneurpodcast.com/everything/Say HI on Social:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaperez19/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/takethehelmvbsFB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/529490048073622 Direct EMAIL:rita@steeryourmarketing.com
สภากาแฟ : ITB Berlin 2025_ดร.ปรัชญากรณ์ ไชยคช by PSU Broadcast FM88 MHz
In today's episode, the CEO of the Zambia Tourism Agency, Matongo Matamwandi speaks extensivley on the growth trajectory of the tourism sector in Zambia. Speaking to me exclusivley at this year's ITB Berlin, Matongo described Zambia's participation as a resounding success and highlighted the country's tourism offerings to the German and wider European market. The ZTA boss also talks about the upcoming Zambia Travel Expo, UN Tourism CAF-CAM Summit, it's sustainability push and more.
La red de aeropuertos del Grupo Aena cerró febrero con un nuevo récord de pasajeros, hasta los casi 20 millones (+4,4%), mientras que en los dos primeros meses de 2025 recibió la llegada de 49,5 millones de de viajeros, un 5,3% más que en 2024.La Comunitat Valenciana ha solicitado al Gobierno ayudas urgentes para el sector turístico tras las pérdidas que superan los 4.000 millones de euros provocadas por la DANA.World2Meet, la división de viajes del Grupo Iberostar, ha conseguido la validación de sus objetivos para la reducción de emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero dentro de la iniciativa Science Based Targets (SBTi). La compañía se compromete a alcanzar cero emisiones netas en toda su cadena de valor para el año 2050.Turespaña mantuvo un encuentro con el grupo asiático Trip.com (Ctrip, Trip.com, Qunar y Skyscanner) en la feria ITB Berlin para impulsar la disponibilidad y comercialización de productos y experiencias turísticas españolas, a través de los diferentes canales de distribución digital.IAG ha cerrado con una caída del 7,02% en Bolsa, la más alta del Ibex 35, hasta los 3,432 euros por título, en una jornada de descensos generalizados en todo el sector aéreo tras los malos pronósticos lanzados por aerolíneas estadounidenses para el arranque del año en el sector del transporte aéreo.César Gutiérrez Calvo ha sido reelegido presidente de la Federación Empresarial de Asociaciones Territoriales de Agencias de Viajes Españolas (FETAVE). En su nuevo mandato, priorizará la exclusión de las agencias de viajes del Real Decreto 933/2021, que regula el registro del viajero. La asamblea general de FETAVE ha acordado emprender acciones legales si el Ministerio del Interior no atiende sus alegaciones contra esta normativa.
Travelnews Online | Rebuilding Travel | Trending | eTurboNews
Travelnews Online | Rebuilding Travel | Trending | eTurboNews
Each morning throughout ITB Berlin, we provide you with latest news and recommendations for the day ahead. Listen in as David Ruetz, Senior Vice President Messe Berlin, shares today's highlights (6 March) on exhibitors' insights, the upcoming 60th anniversary of ITB Berlin in 2026 and gives us their personal preferences of the day. Get inspired by what each day has to offer!
Each morning throughout ITB Berlin, we provide you with latest news and recommendations for the day ahead. Listen in as Lea Jordan, Member Board of Experts ITB Berlin, shares today's highlights (5 March) on ITB Berlin Convention tracks, what's new and gives us their personal preferences of the day. Get inspired by what each day has to offer!
Each morning throughout ITB Berlin, we provide you with latest news and recommendations for the day ahead. Listen in as Deborah Rothe, Director ITB Berlin, shares today's highlights (4 March) on exhibitors' insights, what's new and gives us their personal preferences of the day. Get inspired by what each day has to offer!
Unsicherheit, Krieg und Rezession: Gefühlt jagt eine Krise die nächste und wir kennen den Wunsch, dem zu entfliehen. Wenigstens für zwei oder drei Wochen: Ab in den Urlaub! Die Deutschen wollen auch in diesem Jahr nicht am Reisen sparen, trotz oder gerade wegen der Krisen. Aber wohin zieht es uns? Sind da womöglich schon alle anderen? Woher kommt das Fernweh, was macht das Verreisen mit uns und was wäre, wenn wir einfach nicht wiederkommen? Darüber sprechen wir mit Juli Rutsch, die seit zwei Jahren in ihrem Van lebt, mit der reiseverrückten Psychologin Barbara Horvatits-Ebner, mit Katrin van Randenborgh über die neue ADAC-Reisestudie und mit dem ARD-Kollegen Sebastian Kisters, der gerade recherchiert, wie sich Mallorca auf den Ansturm der Touristen vorbereitet. Podcast-Tipp: Zwischen Hamburg und Haiti Mit dem Mikrofon rund um die Welt. Das ist die spannende Aufgabe, die sich Autor*innen in diesem Podcast stellt. Um dann in unserem Reisemagazin ‚Zwischen Hamburg und Haiti‘ zu erzählen, wie nahe und ferne Länder klingen, was die Menschen dort berichten, wie sie leben, was sie wünschen. Die Reporter*innen erzählen aber auch, wie sie selber sich gefühlt haben beim Reisen, wie es ist, fremd in fernen Welten zu sein. Lassen Sie sich einladen, mitzureisen und vielleicht auch eigene Reisepläne zu schmieden. https://www.ardaudiothek.de/sendung/zwischen-hamburg-und-haiti/7852780/
Unsicherheit, Krieg und Rezession: Gefühlt jagt eine Krise die nächste und wir kennen den Wunsch, dem zu entfliehen. Wenigstens für zwei oder drei Wochen: Ab in den Urlaub! Die Deutschen wollen auch in diesem Jahr nicht am Reisen sparen, trotz oder gerade wegen der Krisen. Aber wohin zieht es uns? Sind da womöglich schon alle anderen? Woher kommt das Fernweh, was macht das Verreisen mit uns und was wäre, wenn wir einfach nicht wiederkommen? Darüber sprechen wir mit Juli Rutsch, die seit zwei Jahren in ihrem Van lebt, mit der reiseverrückten Psychologin Barbara Horvatits-Ebner, mit Katrin van Randenborgh über die neue ADAC-Reisestudie und mit dem ARD-Kollegen Sebastian Kisters, der gerade recherchiert, wie sich Mallorca auf den Ansturm der Touristen vorbereitet. Podcast-Tipp: Zwischen Hamburg und Haiti Mit dem Mikrofon rund um die Welt. Das ist die spannende Aufgabe, die sich Autor*innen in diesem Podcast stellt. Um dann in unserem Reisemagazin ‚Zwischen Hamburg und Haiti‘ zu erzählen, wie nahe und ferne Länder klingen, was die Menschen dort berichten, wie sie leben, was sie wünschen. Die Reporter*innen erzählen aber auch, wie sie selber sich gefühlt haben beim Reisen, wie es ist, fremd in fernen Welten zu sein. Lassen Sie sich einladen, mitzureisen und vielleicht auch eigene Reisepläne zu schmieden. https://www.ardaudiothek.de/sendung/zwischen-hamburg-und-haiti/7852780/
Die ITB war immer auch Vorfreude. Diese gibt es immer noch, nur irgendwie hat sie sich verändert. Egal, ITB Berlin ich komme: Zum 39. Mal. [...] The post D-RR272 – ITB 2025: Memories & Perspektiven first appeared on Deutsches Reiseradio (German Travelradio).
Join us as we welcome Dan Christian, CEO and host of the Travel Trends Podcast, to explore the biggest trends in tours and activities. From hidden gems to the evolving role of AI in travel, Dan shares key insights ahead of his ITB Berlin debut and his panel on tailor-made experiences. Hosted by Charlotte Lamp Davies, founder of A Bright Approach, this episode dives into the latest travel trends shaping 2025. What makes hidden gems so appealing? How can travel companies balance growth and sustainability? Key trends shaping tours & activities in 2025 The role of AI in creating authentic travel experiences What to expect at ITB Berlin's Tours & Activities track Tune in now and get ready for ITB Berlin 2025!
In this ITB Berlin's Travel Hero Podcast our guest is Ben Page, CEO of Ipsos. We're diving into Ipsos' latest insights on how trends in sustainability, wellness, and digital innovation are shaping the future of travel.
In this episode of ITB Berlin's Travel Hero Podcast, Shannon Stowell, CEO of the Adventure Travel Trade Association, dives into the world of adventure travel. We explore its positive impact on local communities, the growing focus on sustainability, and emerging trends shaping the industry's future. We shares insights on how adventure travel providers can build responsible and climate-conscious experiences.
The recently held 2024 ITB Berlin saw Africa turn up in style showcasing a diverse and wide range of offerings for the continent's key source market at the marquee travel show. On today's podcast recorded on the final day of the show, I spoke to the Director General of Destination Marketing at Tourism Seychelles Bernadette Willemin on her impressions of the show. Sales & Marketing Manager of Malawi's Blue Zebra Lodge, Jen Dunlop-Jones expressed excitement following an overwhelming show of interest in their products and La Reunion's Jerome Manicom who was happy to use ITB to announce his maiden B2B event. Natalia Rosa, a Project Lead at SADC Tourism Business Council Tourism Alliance concludes this conversation by sharing insights into the alliance's significant strides and ambitious initiatives.
Episode Notes Hilton recently held a private presentation for investment analysts at its U.S. headquarters. Senior Hospitality Editor Sean O'Neill lists the three biggest takeaways from the presentation's 223 slides. First, Hilton claims the world's largest hotel pipeline. The company said it controls about 20% of the rooms under construction worldwide. Hilton added its loyalty members are responsible for 64% of its total room nights booked, which it claims is an industry high. The company said it's aiming to get that number up to 75%. In addition, Hilton said it's increasing its investment in technology to help sell more ancillary services to guests. Only 13% of its bookings include these upsells. Next, United Airlines will allow friends and family to create joint accounts for pooling frequent flier miles through its loyalty program, writes Airlines Reporter Meghna Maharishi. Any adult United MileagePlus user can be “pool leader” and create a joint account on United's website. United MileagePlus Chief Operating Officer Luc Bondar said the move is intended to make it easier for friends and family to use miles when booking flights. Bondar added United's decision was driven by a surge in family and friends travel since the pandemic. Maharishi reports United is the first of the Big Four U.S. airlines to allow pooling miles with no extra fees. Finally, China's economy is going through a rough patch now, but that probably won't stop large numbers of Chinese from traveling overseas, writes Global Tourism Reporter Dawit Habtemariam. Several executives speaking at the recent ITB Berlin travel show said those in China with the means to travel internationally will do so. One CEO stated about 100 million Chinese travelers have enough money for a long distance trip. In addition, Philip Dickinson, an executive at Visit Qatar, said the Gulf State has seen a surge in Chinese tourists since Beijing lifted its group travel ban on Qatar last August. However, one obstacle for Chinese tourism to the West has been flight availability. Flight schedules from China to Germany, the U.S. and the U.K., among other destinations, haven't recovered to pre-Covid levels.
Today's episode recorded on the margins of ITB Berlin 2024 unpacks Safari 2 GO, a revolutionary approach to planning a trip to Namibia. The platform, part of the Gondwana Group is a comprehensive online travel gateway. The Group CEO of Gondwana Gys Joubert says their newest product was inspired by the demand from smaller players and stand-alone adventurers to discover the land of the Brave.
May we introduce you to Markus Heller, Managing Partner at Dr, Fried & Partner, and Dieter Janecek, member of the German Federal Parliament, the stars of our latest podcast episode. Markus and Dieter did not only recap their overall impressions of ITB Berlin 2024 and the ever-present strikes in Germany that massively affected the trade show. Also, they address the significant role of women in tourism and explore how tourism can serve as a catalyst for openness in a globally interconnected world.
In today's episode, the Acting CEO of Namibia Tourism Board Bonnie Mbidzo on the sidelines of last week's ITB Berlin tells me, the travel trade has expressed their excitement about Namibia's diversified tourism products. He opens up on his short to medium-term plans and finally looks forward to welcoming delegates for the AviaDev to the land of the brave.
From Changi's statistical milestone to a festive travel renaissance and Taylor Diplomacy to Thailand's 'Tourism Salesman'. As the end of Q1 2024 draws near, we move towards another major milestone. Nearly two years ago, on 1 April 2022, South East Asia began to fully reopen after the dark days of the pandemic. So, how has the first quarter of 2024 panned out, and what were the key takeaways? This week, Gary and Hannah assess the Top 8 travel and tourism talking points from throughout the region in the first three months of 2024. En route, we discuss the debut of China's C919 aircraft in ASEAN, the Thai PM's tourism pitch at ITB Berlin and higher passenger service charges in Malaysia. Plus, we look at AirAsia's plan to launch new airlines in Singapore and Vietnam and its parent company's goal of listing on the Nasdaq later this year. And we garnish each talking point with the region's latest travel statistics.
HIN & WEG für die ITB Berlin 2024! In dieser aktuellen Folge wird es (fast) politisch, denn Sven und Andy schämen sich für den Bahn- und Lufthansastreik, der vor den Augen der touristischen Welt auch in der Hauptstadt einen sehr schlechten Geruch in der Luft gelassen hat. Neben ihrer Streik-Tirade passiert zum vielleicht ersten Mal echtes Namedropping im Podcast und die beiden Großmäuler besprechen ihre Lieblingsbegegnungen und Highlights auf der größten touristischen Fachmesse der Welt. Im Hauptteil ist der blinde Reisejournalist Christoph Amman zu Gast, der vor kurzem den Ehrenpreis 2024 der Vereinigung Deutscher Reisejournalisten (VDRJ) verliehen bekommen hat. Der erzählt wie er die Welt und das Reisen mit anderen Sinnen als die meisten anderen Reisenden wahrnimmt, wie er reist und was ihn als Blinder am Reisen und Begegnungen interessiert. Ein spannendes Gespräch mit einem von dem man viel lernen kann. Unbedingt hören!
Episode Notes Speculation has been rife about what company could be behind the possible sale of Tripadvisor since the news first broke last month that it was in play. Executive Editor Dennis Schaal writes about recent reporting that one possible buyer is private equity firm Apollo Global Management. Apollo has expressed interest in a bid , according to Bloomberg. Schaal notes that Apollo's exploration of any purchase is believed to be in an early phase. Tripadvisor has formed an independent committee to vet any offers, which analysts and travel industry insiders believe will come from private equity firms. Tours and activities leader Viator is the fastest-growing in Tripadvisor's portfolio of brands. In speaking to travel industry insiders, most agreed that buying Tripadvisor and then selling Viator made the most sense. Next, the alleged rape of a Brazilian tourist in India has raised questions about whether the country is safe for female tourists, reports Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia. Bhutia writes the incident has triggered criticism of India across social media, with one travel executive stating the widespread coverage would hurt the country's marketing efforts. The CEO of a company organizing backpacking trips in India for a largely female clientele said it would take years to undo the damage. However, Chirag Gupta, CEO of online platform Deyor, said he hasn't received any cancellations despite concerns from international travelers. Finally, one travel executive believes artificial intelligence could replace generic top 10 lists and travel guides, writes Global Tourism Reporter Dawit Habtemariam. Barry Rogers, the head of Dublin City Tourism Unit, said ChatGPT could enhance tourism marketing. Speaking during a panel discussion at the ITB Berlin travel trade show, Rogers added that AI will be able to give travelers personalized itineraries. The Dublin City Council and OpenAI announced a partnership to develop AI-powered itineraries.
Each morning throughout ITB Berlin, we provide you with latest news and recommendations for the day ahead. Listen in as David Ruetz, Senior Vice President Messe Berlin, shares today's highlights (7 March) on convention tracks, what's new, exhibitors' insights and gives us their personal preferences of the day. Get inspired by what each day has to offer!
Each morning throughout ITB Berlin, we provide you with latest news and recommendations for the day ahead. Listen in as Deborah Rothe, Director ITB Berlin, shares today's highlights (6 March) on convention tracks, what's new, exhibitors' insights and gives us their personal preferences of the day. Get inspired by what each day has to offer!
Each morning throughout ITB Berlin, we provide you with latest news and recommendations for the day ahead. Listen in as Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO Messe Berlin, shares today's highlights (5 March) on convention tracks, what's new, exhibitors' insights and gives us their personal preferences of the day. Get inspired by what each day has to offer!
In our new episode of the ITB Travel Hero Podcast with Dr. Patrick, Andrae, CEO and Co-Founder of Hometogo, we look forward to the new AI Track of the ITB Berlin Convention, taking place at eTravelStage in hall 6.1. on March 6, where Patrick will explain the disruptive element of AI and how it may change travel search and booking. Hometogo has already extensively implemented GenAI. Patrick will present his AI strategy on March 6th at the eTravelStage in Hall 6.1. introduce in detail. It won't be the last disruptive tech innovation in the travel business, but it will be a very fundamental one, says Andrae in our exclusive podcast. A great start to a deep dive into Travel AI live at ITB Berlin.
Our moderator Charlotte Lamp Davies of A Bright Approach had the privilege of hosting Rohit Talwar, the CEO and founder of FastFuture, as our guest on the ITB Berlin Travel Hero podcast. Rohit is set to open the Diversity and Inclusion Track at the upcoming convention, where he'll delve into the pivotal global shifts that could significantly impact diversity and inclusivity within the travel sector in the coming years. In the podcast Rohit shares with us his unique perspective on how technology can play a crucial role in addressing inclusivity issues within the travel industry. Additionally, we discuss the essential leadership capabilities needed to guide the sector through escalating uncertainty and rapid change worldwide. Be sure to catch Rohit's keynote on Tuesday, March 5th, at 10:30 am on the green stage in hall 3.1, this podcast is barely a fraction of what he will touch upon in his much-awaited keynote.
In this episode of the ITB Berlin podcast, Willy Legrand engages in a 300-second conversation with Netsai Bollmann, Programme Manager at KAZA TFCA (Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area). The podcast explores the intersection of tourism and biodiversity, offering insights into the positive and negative impacts of the industry on natural habitats. Netsai shares her perspective on the role tourism can play in protecting and restoring biodiversity, especially in the context of KAZA. This episode serves as a preview for the 2024 ITB Responsible Tourism Track, focusing on Biodiversity conservation and restoration, where Netsai will participate in a panel discussion titled "Leave No Footprints and Take only Memories: Tourism's Biodiversity Ambitions and Results." Join the conversation on Thursday, March 7th, to explore the industry's journey towards more equitable and regenerative practices.
In our latest Travel Hero Podcast, we have the pleasure of hosting ITB Director Deborah Rothe in a conversation with podcast host Charlotte Lamp Davies from A Bright Approach. Together, they delve into the details of the upcoming ITB convention scheduled for March 2024 in Berlin, shedding light on what awaits both delegates and exhibitors. With a comprehensive conference program featuring 17 tracks and over 400 speakers and industry experts, ITB Berlin has solidified its position as the go-to platform for the travel sector to engage in discussions on global matters impacting the industry. The theme for next year's convention is "Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism. Together," encapsulating the ethos that defines ITB Berlin. Whether your interests lie in diversity, geopolitics, destination trends, or technological advancements, ITB Berlin has a dedicated track for you. As we anticipate tens of thousands of visitors next year, this podcast serves as a valuable resource for you to prepare and plan your schedules accordingly. We eagerly look forward to welcoming you all from March 5th to 7th, 2024.
With travel and tourism activity continuing to ramp up across South East Asia, Gary and Hannah tackle the top news stories and talking points in March. The journey takes us to Vietnam, Bali (Indonesia), Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Laos ... and Switzerland! En route, we discuss mobile rail ticketing in Laos, bad tourist behaviour shaming in Bali, free tourism experiences in Singapore and an interesting legal case in Malaysia addressing the constitutional right (or otherwise) to travel overseas. Plus, we crunch the numbers of Vietnam's latest visitor arrival forecasts and talk transport infrastructure investment in the Philippines. And, we look back at last weekend's MATTA Fair, Malaysia's largest consumer travel show, and discuss South East Asian representation at ITB Berlin.
Website for this episode: ordinarysherpa.com/098 Register for the FREE Travel Rewards for Families Live Q & A: Ordinarysherpa.com/LIVE At one time, our guest worked in healthcare, but was (not so secretly) addicted to travel. He's been to over 100 countries and seven continents. What sets him apart from many of the travelers I know is his approach; his uncanny way to make you laugh and be completely envious of him experiencing incredible locations with his kids. While many parents like taking breaks from their kids and heading overseas without them. Their family is not like that. Starting at age four, each of his kids got to pick any destination in the world every year for a one-on-one trip, and his kids weren't shy about picking crazy destinations – trips have included Australia (ages 4 and 6), Hong Kong (5), Belize (4), Easter Island (6), Iguazu Falls (6), Bali (9 and 10), Japan (7 and 8), the Maldives (9), and Antarctica (8) and that was just when they were ages 4-8. In 2012 he was lucky enough to win Conde Nast Traveler Magazine's Photo of the Year contest out of 21,000+ entrants. The magazine planned an amazing two weeks in Florence for them. The first two days there three different people called him Babbo – Italian for Dad or Daddy. The kids started using it and it stuck – they haven't called him Dad since they returned from that trip. The funny thing is that Babbo only means Dad in certain parts of Italy. In other areas it means Idiot. Today I am excited to have a conversation with the Family Travel influencer who literally has the registered trademark to Take Your Kids Everywhere, Eric Stoen of Travel Babbo, Welcome to Ordinary Sherpa. Follow or Connect with Eric at: Website: https://travelbabbo.com/ Instagram: @travelbabbo Key Takeaways Eric will go wherever the kids want to go or return to. There are many things that make a location returnable, it's whatever speaks to our hearts. For us we visit Italy specifically Florence and Tuscany or the Greek Isle of Naxos. So much so that locals know our names in several of the locations. Let the kids have a stake in planning. Look for kid-friendly tours. They are simplified and the content is perfect for parents too. Parent first, then traveler, then a photographer and travel writer. He didn't want travel to become not fun for the kids ot getting paid to do things that weren't kid-friendly. I'm not afraid to show my kids faces, but seeing those accounts didn't inspire me. Most times I shared photos of my kids often walking away because that's naturally where I was and they weren't interested in posing. Even if a place looks cool online doesn't mean it's a great kid-friendly place. Capture what's authentic and find the details that speak to you. Eric is not willing to disrupt their vacation for work. his followers deserve better and he wanted to maintain an organic nature of photography - not sponsored, posed photos. He set a boundary that he didn't accept free travel. He wasn't going to travel without his family unless he was getting paid. Networking is everything and meeting people in person is a game changer. Travel writers and adventure brands are fun to be around. Go to events and meet people face-to-face. For Eric, while he was new and uncomfortable at ITB Berlin, Geeking out with new destinations was a trip and he often meets people that he'd like to hang out and travel with. What's your intro? Have 20 seconds that describes why are you unique? Why would someone work with you? What is your attitude on travel? What is your perspective on ___? Your intro is what makes you memorable. Travel is cumulative. Explore with your kids as early as you can because good things will come of it. Resources referenced during this episode:Start Here: https://travelbabbo.com/start-here/ Month by Month Guide to the Best Vacations with Kids: https://travelbabbo.com/best-vacations-for-kids/