Just completed a ceremony in Miami Beach together with officials from Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard to mark the first steel cutting for its 3rd World Class ship, MSC World Asia.
This new 215,000-ton ship is expected to enter service in 2026 and Shanghai might be one of the her home ports in Asia.
MSC World Asia, is expected to be able to carry over 5,400 passengers like her sister ships, MSC World Europa and MSC World America. Also, she will be larger than MSC Bellissima, currently the largest cruise ship sailing in Asia.
The United States edition of BCD Travel's Cities & Trends Report unveils that Europe is the leading choice for intercontinental business travel destinations among US travelers, with London spearheading the list of seven European cities in the top 10. Analysis based on comprehensive data on flights and car rentals contributes to these findings. In the domestic scene, Atlanta secures the top position as the prime city for business travel within the US, thanks to its status as home to numerous Fortune 500 companies and its emerging role as a vibrant startup ecosystem. It is followed by Dallas-Fort Worth and Chicago in terms of popularity.
The report also underscores the crucial role of the trade and investment ties between the EU and the US in making Europe a favorite for American business travelers. Additionally, Texas is highlighted as the leading state for domestic business travel in the US, attributed to its attractive tax policies and being the new home for major corporations such as Tesla and Hewlett Packard.
According to BCD's analysis, business travel has rebounded to its pre-pandemic volume, influenced by economic conditions, the surge in remote work, and growing concerns for sustainability. Craig Bailey, President for the Americas at BCD, comments on the changing dynamics, pointing out the expected vacancy of one-fifth of US offices by 2024 due to the rise of remote work, potentially leading to increased travel as remote teams look for in-person engagements.
Furthermore, the report highlights New York City as the foremost hub for US travelers embarking on intercontinental journeys. Preferences in flight and cabin class are also explored, with a noticeable preference for Business and Economy classes. The trend in car rentals is addressed too, with Dallas-Fort Worth being the most popular city for car rental reservations, showcasing the evolving preferences and trends in business travel for 2023.
Recovery after the pandemic:
After a significant decline in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry has begun to gradually recover. Demand for cruises and travel services is reported to be rising as people look to travel again after long periods of restrictions.
Cruise market trends:
The cruise industry is actively adapting to new realities, introducing enhanced health and safety measures that increase consumer confidence. Traveler preferences are also shifting towards more exclusive and personalized cruise experiences, creating new opportunities for travel agents to offer unique packages and services.
Growing interest in sustainable tourism:
Increased attention to the environment and sustainability is creating demand for greener travel options, including cruises. Companies offering eco-friendly and socially responsible tours can attract new audiences.
Digital transformation:
Success in the travel industry largely depends on the use of digital technologies for marketing, managing customer experiences and offering personalized services. Investing in online booking platforms, mobile apps and digital marketing can significantly increase revenue and attract more customers.
Regional differences:
Tourism demand and preferences can vary greatly from region to region. For example, the Asian market shows high interest in cruise travel, while in Europe and North America there is a greater focus on cultural and eco-tourism.
Statistics and forecasts:
For accurate data and forecasts on the cruise and tourism market, it is advisable to turn to reports from research agencies such as Statista, IBISWorld and others, which regularly publish updated statistics and analysis of industry trends.
It is important to note that success in the tourism business requires not only an understanding of current trends and market statistics, but also the ability to adapt to changing conditions, an innovative approach to the creation and marketing of tourism products, and the provision of high-quality service.
TOURIST INDUSTRY STATISTICS IN 2023:
In 2023, the tourism industry's turnover was projected to reach $9.5 trillion, just 5% below pre-2019 levels. This indicates a rapid recovery of the sector after the pandemic!
STATISTICS IN THE CRUISE INDUSTRY IN 2023
In 2023, the cruise industry's turnover reached $25.1 billion. The industry supports more than 1 million jobs, highlighting its significant impact on the global economy and tourism.
However, it is important to note that the cruise industry is still recovering from significant financial losses and other challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite a projected return in 2023, industry revenues in 2022 were $11.1 billion, down from revenues of $23.4 billion in 2019.
Cruise industry companies such as Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings reported significant increases in revenue in 2023. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings recorded total revenue of $8.5 billion, up 32% year-over-year. These data indicate the gradual recovery and growth of the cruise industry, as well as increased consumer interest in sea travel after the pandemic.
The main news in tourism in the world on February 25, 2024:
The European Union announces plans to introduce an Electronic Travel Authorization System (ETIAS) for all tourists from non-EU countries.
ETIAS system:
Goal: Increase EU border security and improve entry controls.
Requirements: Non-EU citizens will need to apply for an ETIAS online and pay a fee of €7.
Validity: The ETIAS permit will be valid for 3 years and will allow you to enter the Schengen countries an unlimited number of times within 90 days.
Effective date: ETIAS is expected to become operational at the end of 2024.
Other news in tourism:
Emirates Airlines announces plans to launch a new flight from Dubai to Melbourne, Australia.
Mandarin Oriental Hotel opens a new hotel in Doha, Qatar.
The Tourism Board of Thailand reports a record number of tourists visiting the country in 2023.
Serengeti National Park in Tanzania announces a two-month closure due to seasonal animal migration.
Important:
Information about tourism news is constantly changing.
It is recommended that you check the latest news and entry restrictions before booking your trip.
Miami's tourism industry has been showing robust growth and setting records, especially in the wake of the pandemic. In 2022, Miami-Dade County welcomed over 26.5 million visitors, generating more than $20.8 billion in tourism revenue, marking an 8% increase over the previous year. This surge was supported by a significant rise in both overnight stays and day-time visits, with the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau highlighting that overnight visitation increased by 20% from 2021. The county also saw a boost in hotel room sales and gross hotel revenue, alongside a rise in hotel occupancy rates despite new hotel room inventories being added.
Moreover, Miami has been experiencing a booming visitor industry with big changes from two years ago. David Whitaker, CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, noted that for nine of the last 13 weeks, demand has been higher than both the Covid period and their best times in 2019 in terms of "heads in beds." The average daily room rate in Miami-Dade County has seen a significant increase, with the industry also gaining on a national level.
Furthermore, the early part of 2023 has continued this positive trend, with increased seat capacity for international passengers and higher hotel occupancy and daily rates recorded in the first two weeks. The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau reports that occupancy, average daily rates, and visitor volume have all seen increases, with the annual occupancy rate of Miami-Dade hotels in 2022 standing at 72.1%, 8% above 2021. This success is partly attributed to Miami's appeal to high-value customers who are looking for high-quality experiences.
These developments are very encouraging for Miami's tourism sector and underline the city's resilience and attractiveness as a top travel destination.
Breaking new ground in Miami: Dive into the world of excursions
Known for its beaches, cultural diversity and stunning architecture, Miami is now opening up new possibilities for travelers and adventurers. Newly launched Miami City Tours offer unique and personalized itineraries that reveal the true essence of this vibrant Florida city.
Specialized Miami guides with a deep knowledge of local history and culture are ready to share their stories and secrets of the city, offering travelers not just tours, but a guide to the most picturesque and memorable places. Excursions in Florida are becoming increasingly popular, and Miami is the crown jewel of the excursion variety.
The new tours include not only classic walks through historic districts and famous beaches, but also more intimate itineraries such as food tours, where you can sample the culinary masterpieces of local chefs, and eco-tours, which allow you to appreciate the unique flora and fauna of Florida.
A Florida guide becomes not just a tour guide, but a real guide in the world of nature and culture. The opening of a new season of excursions in Miami promises to be a real holiday for seekers of new experiences and those who seek to immerse themselves deeper into the atmosphere of this unique place.
The number of requests for personalized excursions in Miami is growing every day, indicating a growing interest in personalized and quality service in the tourism industry. That's why we're proud to offer our customers exceptional service and an unforgettable travel experience in sunny Florida.
Adventure awaits around every corner, and Miami always welcomes travelers with open arms and the promise of new discoveries. Book your next excursion to Miami and let a Florida guide show you the best of this paradise in the world.
Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship to enter service and brings many innovations to the company's offerings. It features new entertainment areas, an adults-only pool and bar, brand new restaurant concepts, cabin types with more sea views, answering long-standing requests from travelers. Particularly notable is the "Category 6" water zone, which is the largest water park at sea and features a record-breaking six water slides, including the tallest slide at sea and the first open free-fall slide on a cruise ship.
In addition, Icon of the Seas offers dedicated staterooms and amenities for families, making it an ideal choice for families with children. For example, there are dedicated family suites and a unique three-level "Ultimate Family Townhouse" offering incredible opportunities for adventure.
Thus, participating in a cruise on the Icon of the Seas provides cruise agents with the opportunity to experience first-hand the latest innovations in the cruise industry, which can be a valuable experience for the further development of their professional activities. It also provides them with unique content to promote to their customers, showcasing the latest trends and opportunities for an unforgettable seaside holiday.
Information sources:
Royal Caribbean Blog
Cruise lines continue to invest in developing new and unique cruise ships to meet the needs of their passengers. Several new ships have hit the waters in recent years, each offering unique features and services for its guests.
MSC Virtuosa news
One of the most exciting new cruise ships is the MSC Virtuosa, which was launched in February 2021. The ship has a circular gallery of steps with Swarovski crystals on five decks, called the "Spiral", where you can enjoy views of the interior of the ship's main hall and take a physical fitness test as you climb up the steps. Additionally, there is a hyper-realistic digital IMAX cinema and celebrity chef dining options on board.
MSC-Virtuosa-spiral-news
Another new cruise ship launched that same year was Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas. The ship features the world's first virtual reality headset, the VR Sky Pad, where passengers can experience the thrill of jumping onto a tropical island or experience space travel. Plus, there's the SeaPlex, the largest outdoor activity area at sea, with racing cars, basketball courts and more. Today, such entertainment and no longer innovations are already used on other modern ocean liners.
Odyssey-of-the-Seas-news
Celebrity-Beyond-news
Finally, the new ship Celebrity Beyond, launched in April 2021, features some of the most luxurious staterooms and public spaces at sea. The ship was created in partnership with renowned interior designer Kelly Hoppen and includes many design elements such as unique furniture compositions and sculptural elements.
These are just some examples of cruise ships that have been launched in the past few years. Each offers its own unique features and experience for passengers, and we can expect even more new and innovative cruise ships in the future.