Traveling Blog: Lux Travel and Social Media + Alipay in the U.S. 2.0 + Tours & Activities Shortcomings

March 20, 2018

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Editor's Note

The tours and activities market is something we argue about internally at Skift all the time. And part of the argument is making sure we hear from as many smart people as we possibly can. Which is why we're inviting one of the minds behind GetYourGuide to join us at Skift Forum Europe next month. His advice? It's all up for grabs.

Speaking of up for grabs, we also look at luxury travel's shortcomings (or failings) when it comes to social media, as well as Alipay's latest foray into the U.S., which is the next step for the travel-friendly payment service.

— Jason Clampet, Editor-in-Chief

Don't Miss 15% OFF Tickets to Skift Forum Europe

Skift is hosting the second annual Skift Forum Europe in just 36 days, and you're invited. We're offering you 15% OFF your ticket when you register this week only. See you in Berlin!

Do locals spend more money on at-home activities than travelers spend on in-trip activities? The answer isn't as pressing as the fact that most of the world's activities are still up for grabs by booking platforms.

Luxury Hospitality Brands Play Catch-Up on Social Media

Social platforms are constantly evolving, mandating that luxury brands perpetually refine their approach and balance their agenda of pushing a lifestyle brand while providing real-time customer communications.

Alipay Steps Up Push to Cater to Chinese Travelers in the U.S.

The phrase "cash is king" is fast becoming outdated as Chinese travelers popularize mobile payment methods like Alipay and Weixin Pay.

United's Premium Economy Domestic Expansion Should Learn From Polaris Mistakes

A premium economy cabin on United's domestic fleet could give it a leg up on competitors in terms of both product and revenue. But can it actually execute?

The Evolution of Fine Dining at an NYC Korean Steakhouse

Cote marries a Korean barbecue joint with an American steakhouse. Owner Simon Kim says it's not fine dining, but we find it squarely in the growing category of blurred boundaries of the once-traditional fine dining experience.

Trivago views Google Hotels as a separate channel from Google AdWords, and it is testing participation now that sites such as its own are no longer banned. Then comes the question of how profitable using Google Hotels would be, and whether Trivago wants to spend a lot of money in a competitive product.

Airbnb Makes Its Battle Against Booking and Expedia Official With New Hotel Campaign

The battle for online travel dominance began long ago, but now it's really getting serious. Count this as Airbnb's official opening shot toward Booking and Expedia.

The Era of Personalization in Event Tech Is Finally Here

Tools are finally emerging that empower event professionals with the insights they need to better understand how attendees operate at events and the value created for sponsors. It's about time, and these tools will only become more useful over time as event planners learn more about what makes their gatherings successful.

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