Where's the Growth in Online Travel? Skift Global Forum

The winner of the rapidly approaching U.S. presidential election is bound to have an outsized impact on the travel industry, a topic Skift has examined in recent weeks. But that’s not the only important politics-related matter on the minds of travel executives.

Skift Global Forum East is quickly approaching, taking place on November 19-20 in Dubai. If you haven’t yet attended, now is the time to join industry leaders from travel, tourism, and hospitality, as they share groundbreaking insights and dive into the region’s tremendous potential.

MGM Resorts International president and CEO Bill Hornbuckle discussed the company’s strategy and outlook on stage at Skift Global Forum 2024.

The experiences sector has seen a boom in recent years as travelers are choosing to spend more money on experiences than possessions.  Skift Research’s Venture Investment Trends in Travel 2024 report revealed experiences was one of the few sectors in travel to see an increase in venture capital investment.

Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, sees a “10-year golden run” ahead for economy hotels, driven by the $1.5 trillion U.S. infrastructure bill. With only 20% of the funds allocated so far, Ballotti expects strong hotel demand from infrastructure workers needing affordable extended stays near project sites.

We are thrilled to announce the speakers for Skift Aviation Forum, co-hosted by American Airlines and DFW International Airport, set to take place on November 12 in Dallas, Texas. This year’s lineup features some of the most influential leaders in the aviation industry, who will share their insights and expertise on the future of aviation.

Marriott International president and CEO Anthony Capuano spoke at the Skift Global Forum in New York City about the hotel giant’s strategic growth, including its expansion beyond traditional hotel offerings into areas like luxury yachts and tented lodges.

The Skift Global Forum brought travel’s most powerful people to New York, where they discussed some of the industry’s most important issues. What stood out from the event?

Ariane Gorin has had a lot on her plate since taking over as Expedia Group CEO in May. Gorin, who recently appeared in the Skift Power Rankings as one of travel’s most powerful leaders, has had to deal with a tech migration that has resulted in a slowdown in business at some of its brands. In addition, Expedia is facing the challenge of how to rebuild its One Key loyalty program.

Leaving the shores of Sicily, season three of HBO’s White Lotus is being filmed in Thailand. If you’re dreaming of a stylish beach vacation White Lotus style (minus the murder, scams, and sleeping around), you’re in luck because Unforgettable Travel, a premier luxury travel company, has just launched a White Lotus Thailand tour from Bangkok to the stunning island of Koh Samui.

The Casbah Coffee Club, a cultural landmark for Beatles fans in Liverpool, England, has recently opened its doors to Airbnb guests. It’s here, in this basement of this home, where The Beatles played some of their earliest gigs.

There have been dozens of travel tech acquisitions so far this year: That includes at least 11 deals over the past three months, which followed at least 15 earlier this year.