The era of the utilitarian conference room is over. According to Hilton’s new “Why We Gather” report, the meetings and events sector is pivoting toward shock-and-awe engagement, where the physical environment must deliver deep emotional and cultural experiences that digital platforms simply can’t match. As AI and tech take over the logistical heavy lifting, the bar […]

Workers at Rio Hotel and Casino, represented by Teamsters Local 986, have overwhelmingly ratified a strong four-year collective bargaining agreement. The group of 62 front desk workers, laborers, warehouse workers, and valet attendants secured higher wages, improved benefits, and stronger workplace protections. “Our members stood strong, and management had no other choice but to deliver,” […]

Holland America Line has introduced two new shore excursion collections: “Meet the Maker” and “Community Connections.” These curated experiences invite guests to go beyond the guidebook and immerse themselves in local life. From savoring family recipes at eateries to learning time-honored crafts from artisans and engaging with communities that keep traditions alive, these tours celebrate […]

Travel Leaders Network significantly expanded its footprint in 2025, onboarding over 300 new member agencies. The influx — comprising 264 U.S. affiliates, 36 Canadian agencies, and four associate franchises — injects more than $300 million in annual preferred supplier sales into the network. The recruitment surge highlights a persistent operational reality for today’s independent agencies: […]

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will roll out the new modernized TSA ConfirmID starting Feb. 1, 2026, giving travelers without a REAL ID or other acceptable forms of identification a new option to fly. For a $45 fee, travelers can use this optional alternative identity verification system that provides access to air travel for those who […]

Airlines Reporting Corp. (ARC) released data showing U.S.-based travel agency air ticket sales totaled $100.4 billion in 2025. The annual sales total grew 1 percent from 2024 and represents the highest annual total recorded by ARC. Total results for 2025 showed: ARC Ticketing Metric Total Year-Over-Year Variance Total Sales $100.4 billion +1% Total Passenger Trips […]

Royal Caribbean Group has announced the introduction of Points Choice, part of a new program designed to give loyal guests the freedom to earn points across any of its three brands and apply them where they matter most, regardless of the ship they’re sailing. At a time when many loyalty programs are reducing benefits, Royal […]

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has unveiled and opened for sale Norwegian Aura, the longest and largest vessel in its fleet, which will homeport in Miami beginning in June 2027 following its debut in Europe in late May 2027. Norwegian Aura will be almost 1,130 feet long, 169,000 gross tons and will accommodate 3,840 guests at double occupancy. It will be 10 percent […]

Visit California has announced that longtime President & CEO Caroline Beteta will retire from her role in September 2026, concluding three decades of transformative leadership building California’s tourism economy and global brand. Visit California’s Board of Directors has launched a global search for Beteta’s successor. Beteta will remain fully engaged in day-to-day operations through the […]

As LinkedIn names travel advisor among the fastest-growing careers in the United States, Nexion Travel Group reports a 20 percent increase in interest over the last year from individuals exploring the profession, signaling renewed momentum for travel advising as a flexible, entrepreneurial career path. According to LinkedIn’s “Jobs on the Rise 2026″ report, travel advisor […]