Samantha Shankman

The Maldives protesters know more about making a social media splash than all the social media experts on tap to speak at World Travel Market. Perhaps they'll be invited next year to lead a seminar?

The staff members that first pushed their companies to invest in social may have been disregarded for their time spent online in the past. However, Friday's horrible incident reveals how crucial those team members and communication channels have become, especially to companies responsible for the safety of thousands on a daily basis.

Global aviation authorities followed the FAA's decision to ban electronic use during takeoff and landing so it is likely that they will follow its decision to allow electronic use during all stages of flight as well.

The U.S. and European cruise market has suffered from a series of accidents over the past two years making global companies particularly eager to capture a fresh customer base while repairing their reputations at home.

Both airlines were part of the panel that investigated the impact of devices during takeoff and landing. They were able to file their paper works when most airlines were receiving the rules. It will be a few weeks before others catch up.

Better late than never? The closer that travel agencies get to becoming the physical manifestation of today's booking and reviews sites, the closer they get to keeping the customers they have left.

Writing hotel reviews has become a common part of a travel experience. Guests and hotel managers are getting better at filtering through the noise to write and comment on the service and amenities that really matter.