Two more climbers perish on Peruvian climb, bringing number to eight this season
As climbing becomes more popular the real life and death challenges get lost in the promise of the adventure-packed brochures.
Tourism News
Thailand’s interior ministry gives unlicensed hotels a reason to go legit
Thai industry officials think that lighter regulations will cause fewer hoteliers to cheat and keep their properties off the tax rolls. They've also got their fingers crossed that this move will help bring up nightly rates.
Tourism makes a slow comeback to strife-torn Bahrain
With the situation so fluid in that region of the world, it would take a while before cruise tourist ships come back fully.
TripAdvisor making friends in UK after spate of bad PR
After getting slapped on the wrist by UK regulatory authorities regarding the trustworthiness of its reviews, and being subjected to adverse press reports, TripAdvisor is anxious to portray its tourism status as a solid citizen. Of course 25% of TripAdvisor users stay longer at hotels than other travelers -- it takes time to pack and write all those reviews before heading out to the next destination.
Exclusive French luxury cruise line bought by a sandwich chain
Prêt a Manger's parent company has investments in many industries so the purchase of Compagnie du Ponant's three-ship cruise line isn't too far-fetched. No word on whether its all-inclusive price packages includes a sandwich-making station.
Canada is more than a maple leaf and some beavers, say U.S. branding experts
The Canadians didn't exactly ask for the advice, but it never hurts to get outside advice on how you brand your own nation. Yes, we're talking to you Brand USA.
Venice’s lagoon is doomed unless it gets a little “intelligent tourism”
An alternative dock is needed for cruise ships before erosion of Venice's main lagoon is further damaged. Venetians, who earn little revenue from cruises or their guests, hope a new bill will help them to regain control.
NYC’s biggest convention center plan may be a decade too late
Air travel to come to these giant events is bad enough, then hotel prices always shoot up in the vicinity. Plus technology has obviated the need for such large conventions.
Lonely Planet’s value down $78 million since BBC purchase
LP is one of the strongest travel brands anywhere, but that doesn't make it immune to incompetence in the executive suite. It needs to stop chasing silly mobile ideas (Wenzani? Really?) and focus on the strength of its content.
UK border officers at Heathrow are missing possible security threats
Normal training for a border officer is six to eight weeks, yet new staff managing desks are coming in with a day under their belts. When you layer on top the ambitious incompetence of the Home Office's political appointees, you've got a real mess on your hands.