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Travel Industry News & Trends

France Still #1: The European Tourism Power Rankings Are In

In 2023, France once again claimed the top global spot for international tourist arrivals, welcoming an estimated 100 million visitors. But it’s not just a numbers game: France’s luxury travel sector alone is forecasted to reach $53.6 billion by 2030, fueled by demand for immersive, high-touch experiences in both cities and the countryside. BUSINESS TRAVELER

Across Europe, the rebound is not just healthy — it’s record-setting. Here’s how the top 5 European destinations ranked by international arrivals last year:

While the U.S. leads globally in tourism receipts ($175.9 billion), Europe still dominates in volume — and increasingly, in the quality of traveler experiences.

High spending, long stays, multigenerational groups, and interest in wellness, gastronomy, and heritage are all pushing advisors to think deeper and design smarter.

Now’s the time to refresh your go-to itineraries and align with partners who offer more than just the usual.

Mandarin Oriental Qianmen: Where Luxury Meets Hutong Chic

Beijing’s charm can be elusive, but Mandarin Oriental Qianmen nails it by tucking you into the city’s historic hutongs—yes, those ancient alleyways with actual soul. Opened in late 2024, this plush property wraps you in five-star opulence while letting you sip tea in a serene courtyard like a local sage. You’re steps from Tiananmen Square, yet somehow cocooned in tranquility. It’s culture, comfort, and just the right dash of smug. THE TIMES

Come for the thread count, stay for the bragging rights.

La Compagnie: Boutique Business Class With French Attitude

If Air France and a Parisian boutique hotel had a very chic baby at 35,000 feet, La Compagnie would be it. This all-business-class French airline delivers lie-flat comfort, curated cuisine, and just the right amount of je ne sais quoi on transatlantic routes. With its intimate cabin and attentive service, it feels more like a private soirée in the sky than a flight. NY POST

Frankly, it’s the only way a civilized human should travel from New York to Paris. ✈️🇫🇷😀

One&Only Moonlight Basin: Big Sky Just Got Bigger

The iconic One&Only brand has officially landed in North America with Moonlight Basin, a high-altitude sanctuary tucked into Montana’s dramatic peaks. Think 73 sleek lodge rooms, 19 private villas, and spa rituals worthy of a post-heli-ski glow. Designed by Olson Kundig, it’s where rugged meets refined—and yes, there’s fly fishing before foie gras. LUXURY TRAVEL ADVISOR

When the mountains call, this is how you answer: in five-star silence.

Regent Seven Seas: Prestige Has a New Name

Regent Seven Seas has officially laid the keel for its newest ship, Seven Seas Prestige, at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard. Slated to launch in 2026, this 77,000-ton beauty will host 850 guests in signature Regent-style opulence, think sprawling suites, elevated dining, and public spaces that whisper luxury. Following Grandeur, Splendor, and Explorer, Prestige promises to be the next jewel in the fleet. LUXURY TRAVEL ADVISOR

It seems luxury never goes out of style; it just gets a better view.

Sponsored by dos:deux

The Expert’s Guild Marketing Corner

How to Measure Your Social Media Success (And What to Do With It)

Let’s face it: social media takes time and effort. But how do you know if it's actually working? Whether you're posting dreamy overwater villas or once-in-a-lifetime safari shots, it’s important to track what resonates with your audience—so you can do more of it.

Here’s a simple, no-jargon guide to measuring your social media effectiveness and using those insights to grow, no matter what platform you use.

Step 1: Choose What You Want to Measure

You don’t need to track everything—just focus on what matters to your business. Start with:

• Engagement (likes, comments, shares): Are people interacting with your content?

• Reach/Impressions: How many people are seeing your posts?

• Link Clicks: Are people clicking to view your offers or website?

• Bookings or Leads: Are people reaching out or converting from your content?

Step 2: Track Your Top Posts

Every week, write down:

• Your three best-performing posts

• The number of likes, shares, comments, or link clicks

• The type of post (photo, reel, quote, tip, offer)

Step 3: Use Simple Links to Track Clicks

If you’re sharing a link (to a blog post, trip itinerary, or lead form), use a free tool like Bitly to shorten and track how many clicks it gets. That way, you’ll know which posts actually drive action.

Step 4: Set One Monthly Goal

For example: “Get five people to click on my Italy tour landing page.” Keep it realistic. Check your insights weekly and adjust your content based on what performs better.

Step 5: Take Action

After 30 days, look back. Ask:

• What worked?

• What didn’t?

• What will I do more of next month?

Social media isn’t about posting more—it’s about posting smarter.

Download the Social Media Tracker Template Here: