D/R DOWNLOAD 8.23

What’s Trending

01/ On Google

• "Six rules for traveling in retirement" trended +110% this week, indicating that retired people want to make the most of their trips.

02/ With Media

• This week, media were interested in wellness amenities at hotels, experimental moon-focused activities, exotic cruise itineraries, and more.

• Condé Nast and OpenAI have agreed to a deal where Condé Nast will use OpenAI's technology to enhance content creation and personalization. This partnership will integrate advanced AI into the outlet's media processes.

03/ In the Zeitgeist

• TikTok Creator Jools Lebron gained attention for her "cutesy and demure" travel guides, where she offers funny, aesthetic, and practical tips for travel. Jokes aside, she emphasizes being a respectful traveler!

Industry Insights

• Brands are increasingly tapping into the creator economy, recognizing the value of partnering with content creators to craft compelling, authentic marketing strategies. By leveraging these creators with growing followings, brands are building deeper relationships with their audiences and keeping up with our evolving digital landscape. 

• A potential new ferry service in Hawaii is being explored to improve inter-island travel, offering a more convenient alternative to flying. This initiative aims to provide more accessible travel between islands, enhancing tourism and locals' everyday lives. 

• Delta Airlines has launched new perks such as additional luggage allowances, priority boarding and improved customer service for SkyMiles members traveling for business. These changes are designed to improve comfort and convenience for frequent travelers and make their journeys more enjoyable.

• Uber is set to launch an airport shuttle service in the U.S., offering travelers a more convenient way to get to the airport.

• Hilton has introduced "Hilton for Luxury," an enhanced global luxury travel advisor program exclusive to its luxury brands. This program offers exclusive benefits, aiming to elevate the luxury travel experience for advisors and clients. 

• Travel trends that defined summer 2024 include traveling for major events, affordable destinations and accommodations, and advance planning. 

• Florida’s tourism marketing agency recently removed LGBTQ+ travel information from its website, surprising travelers to many major Florida cities that have long been destinations for LGBTQ+ tourists. 

• Residents of popular summer travel spots are growing increasingly frustrated this summer because of “overtourism,” and destinations are grappling with the balance between supporting the tourism economy and addressing the concerns of locals.  

• A recent Muck Rack study revealed that PR pros are experiencing significant stress and burnout, with 50% considering quitting due to high pressures, and little increase in salary over the years. 

• The rising unemployment rate is causing implications on the travel industry. While it could help fill job vacancies, it might also reduce consumer spending on travel.

• The proposed merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines has gotten one step closer to reality as the U.S. Department of Justice gave its antitrust approval. The merger, which will unite two major carriers in the Pacific region, is expected to offer expanded services to travelers.

The Good

• The Chicago Sky has partnered with The Net, an AI tool to block harmful and negative social media content for its athletes scrolling through their social media feeds, with hopes to expand it further.