Report: United CEO Pitched American Airlines Merger to Trump

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has floated a merger with American Airlines to the highest levels of the Trump administration — including the president himself — in what would be the most consequential airline consolidation in more than a decade.  Whether it ever actually happens is another story entirely. Kirby pitched the potential tie-up during […]

MSC Launches Sandy Cay, New Luxury Private Island in Bahamas

MSC Group’s cruise division announced a new private island destination today: Sandy Cay, a secluded retreat launching in 2028 next to its existing Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas. The development marks the company’s latest expansion of its portfolio of proprietary destinations for MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys guests. Sandy Cay will be […]

Tidelands Lease Signed for Áak’w Landing Project in Juneau

Alaska Native village corporation Huna Totem Corporation and the City and Borough of Juneau have finalized a tidelands lease agreement for the Áak’w Landing project, clearing the way for final design and construction of a new cruise ship dock and waterfront destination in downtown Juneau. The lease agreement follows Assembly and Planning Commission approvals and […]

WTTC’s “Cruising for Impact” Report Highlights the Positive Impact of Cruise Tourism for Communities Worldwide

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched its latest report, “Cruising for Impact,” highlighting the positive impact that cruise tourism delivers for communities and destinations around the world. The report shows how cruise tourism acts as a powerful driver of opportunity, supporting local livelihoods, strengthening communities, and creating long-term value in coastal and […]

Data: Americans Rethinking European Travel This Spring

Historically, April marks the start of the European travel season for many Americans. However, Squaremouth, the travel insurance marketplace, is seeing a different picture emerge this spring. According to Squaremouth’s data, Americans are reconsidering where they’re traveling to, spending more than normal traveling within the U.S., and seeking extra protection for international trips. A Deeper […]

Why Jamaica Is Doubling Down on Travel Advisors

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett has publicly credited travel advisors across the Americas as essential to the destination’s tourism growth, emphasizing their role in shaping client perceptions and driving repeat visitation during a period of global market volatility. Speaking at a reception in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, Bartlett told advisors that their influence extends […]

Can America Get Its Act Together to Capture World Cup Travel Spending?

A new study from the U.S. Travel Association suggests the 2026 FIFA World Cup could deliver substantial booking opportunities and travel spend, with international visitors planning per-person spending of more than $5,000, roughly 1.7 times higher than typical international trips to the U.S. But the research also flags significant obstacles: safety concerns and visa policy […]

New Direct Flights: Contour Links Macon, Georgia, to Baltimore and Fort Lauderdale

Contour Airlines is making a significant bet on Middle Georgia’s market, announcing on April 9 that it will restore nonstop service to Baltimore beginning June 9 while simultaneously launching new flights to Fort Lauderdale—a dual expansion signaling confidence in the region’s leisure and business travel demand. The Baltimore return marks the airline’s response to what […]