D/R DOWNLOAD 10.3
What’s Trending
01/ On Google
"Government shutdown travel impact" trended +1,850% following the U.S. government shutdown after lawmakers failed to reach a funding deal, leaving about 750,000 federal employees furloughed or working without pay while essential services continue.
02/ With Media
This week, media were interested in how travelers can celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, hotels with outstanding coffee programs, out-of-country luxury destinations, the best fall cruise itineraries, and more.
03/ In the Zeitgeist
Dr. Jane Goodall, the pioneering primatologist, anthropologist, conservationist, passed away this week at 91. Her groundbreaking research with chimpanzees in Tanzania revolutionized science, while her tireless advocacy for animals and the environment inspired millions. Through the Jane Goodall Institute, she leaves behind a global legacy of hope and action.
Industry Insights
Bachelor and bachelorette parties have moved away from wild nights toward more wellness-focused, bonding experiences. Travelers are increasingly opting for activities like surfing, hiking, rafting, and yoga retreats, creating memorable trips without the hangovers.
Reader’s Digest named Asheville, North Carolina the Nicest Place in America 2025 for its arts, community spirit, and resilience.
Oregon is the first U.S. state to earn “Accessibility Verified” status through Wheel the World, with over 750 hotels, restaurants, and attractions assessed across 43 communities. The program provides travelers with disabilities detailed online accessibility information to help them plan inclusive trips with confidence.
The Eiffel Tower shut down as protests broke out across more than 200 French cities over proposed spending cuts, drawing nearly 200,000 demonstrators, including 24,000 in Paris.
Marriott launched the Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy, an outdoor lodging brand that features stays like glamping tents, boutique hotels, and cabins in nature-focused destinations. The platform also connects travelers to curated tours and activities.
TikTok launched Travel Ads powered by Smart+, allowing brands to promote hotels, flights, and destinations with personalized, catalog-based creatives. Using video and carousel formats with AI targeting, the ads guide high-intent travelers from discovery to booking, tapping into a platform where 66% of users say TikTok is their top source of travel inspiration.
American Airlines is elevating its premium experience with new Raven + Lily amenity kits, Joanna Vargas skincare, and Champagne Bollinger in lounges and on flights. The carrier is also adding more premium seating as it competes in the luxury travel market.
Global air travel surged in August 2025, with demand up 4.6% year-over-year and planes averaging a record-high 86% load factor. Growth was strongest in the Asia-Pacific at nearly 10%, while North America saw just 1.8%.
The Good
Maxwell House is rebranding for the first time in its history to Maxwell Apartment in an effort to meet the needs of present-day consumers. The limited-time rebrand is part of an effort to emphasize value and consistent flavor, and as part of the launch, the brand launched a year’s supply of coffee on Amazon for $40 to highlight affordability.
