SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 18, 2025 – From humble steam-powered beginnings to the mega-liners of today, the cruise industry has undergone a dramatic transformation. The market's growth has been nothing short of phenomenal. In 1970, an estimated 500,000 people embarked on cruise holidays. By 1997, that number had skyrocketed to five million. What fueled this surge in popularity? Industry experts point to a certain television show with an undeniably catchy theme tune.
The Impact of "The Love Boat"
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 18, 2025 – In recent years, no TV series has captivated viewers and sparked wanderlust quite like “The White Lotus.” With its blend of murder, scandal, stunning beaches, and wealthy characters behaving badly, the show has become a cultural phenomenon.1 The highly anticipated third season, premiering February 16th, takes viewers to another breathtaking destination: Thailand.2
Setting the Scene: Thailand's Allure
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 18, 2025 – A Delta Air Lines flight operated by a subsidiary, Endeavor Flight 4819, from Minneapolis/St. Paul to Toronto Pearson International Airport, crashed on Monday, February 17, 2025. Delta Air Lines confirmed the incident in a statement to USA TODAY.
The Crash and Immediate Aftermath
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 18, 2025 – Minor Hotels is celebrating its most successful financial year to date, and the company anticipates even greater achievements on the horizon, fueled by the highly anticipated third season of HBO's hit series, The White Lotus.
Record-Breaking Performance in 2024
Minor Hotels has reported exceptional financial results for 2024, marking its best year ever. This impressive performance reflects the company's strong operational strategies and the resurgence of global travel.
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 18, 2025 – The Singapore Airlines Group (SIA) has announced a strong start to the year, reporting an 8.6% increase in passenger traffic for January compared to the same period last year. This positive performance comes as the airline industry continues to navigate a dynamic global landscape.
Increased Passenger Load Factor
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 18, 2025 – Southwest Airlines announced Monday that it plans to lay off about 15% of its corporate workforce, or about 1,750 people. This move marks a significant turning point in the airline's 53-year history as it faces increasing pressure to improve its financial performance.
Cost-Cutting Measures and Restructuring
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 18, 2025 – Bali's tourism industry, already facing numerous challenges, is now grappling with a significant increase in illegal rental villas, a problem exacerbated, according to industry insiders, by online booking platforms. Executives at legitimate hospitality establishments warn that these unregistered properties pose a serious threat to the island's reputation, create unfair competition for established businesses, and contribute to the already strained environment.
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 18, 2025 – As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the global economy, Huawei Cloud showcased its pivotal role in enabling Saudi Arabia's AI leadership journey at LEAP 2025 in Riyadh. The company emphasized how its advanced infrastructure and AI capabilities, particularly within its Riyadh Region, empower the Kingdom to develop locally relevant AI solutions tailored to unique regional needs while prioritizing data sovereignty.
Huawei Cloud's Riyadh Region: A Hub for AI Development
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 18, 2025 – The historic partnership between Sparco and Lancia, a motorsport powerhouse during the Eighties and Nineties, is back and stronger than ever as the world-renowned brand makes its return to racing.
A Reunion of Legends
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 17, 2025 – The hospitality industry is experiencing a wave of new leadership appointments, with several prominent hotels and groups announcing key hires this week. These appointments signal a focus on growth, enhanced guest experiences, and strategic revenue management. From regional general managers to cluster directors of revenue and executive chefs, these individuals bring a wealth of experience and innovative ideas to their new roles.
Choice Hotels EMEA Promotes Tobias Reinecke