We're living in uncertain times due to the pandemic, and that means more flexible especially when we travel.
One change that may be permanent is that people are more open to unconventional travel opportunities -- as well as challenges -- when they book their vacations.
Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky explained at Skift Global Forum 2021 that before the pandemic, working, living and traveling had to be three separate activities. But with remote work now more accepted, it can be one and the same.
"This revolution really is about flexibility," Chesky said. "Suddenly, you can live anywhere, you can work anywhere."
It also means travelers are moving from being strict and rigid to being more malleable. A recent Expedia survey showed that half of global travel searches this summer were for 21 days or less. Airlines are also more open to giving refunds with cancellations, even for the cheapest tickets. Travelers, especially those looking for high-end luxury vacations, are simultaneously planning trips to ensure they go on one, a phenomenon known as "travel stacking."
https://skift.com/2021/09/15/new-research-5-trends-from-travels-2021-summer-surge/
"Flexibility is going to be huge in terms of how travel companies spur demand and then put consumer confidence back," Ali told Cheddar.
U.S. sports betting is booming as NFL and college football fuel massive activity. BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt breaks down trends, growth, and what’s next.
President Donald Trump says a deal struck by Netflix last week to buy Warner Bros. Discovery “could be a problem” because of the size of the combined market share. The Republican president says he will be involved in the decision about whether federal regulators should approve the deal. Trump commented Sunday when he was asked about the deal as he walked the red carpet at the Kennedy Center Honors. The $72 billion deal would bring together two of the biggest players in television and film and potentially reshape the entertainment industry.
Disney's changes to a program for disabled visitors are facing challenges in federal court and through a shareholder proposal. The Disability Access Service program, which allows disabled visitors to skip long lines, was overhauled last year. Disney now mostly limits the program to those with developmental disabilities like autism who have difficulty waiting in lines. The changes have sparked criticism from some disability advocates. A shareholder proposal submitted by disability advocates calls for an independent review of Disney's disability policies. Disney plans to block this proposal, claiming it's misleading. It's the latest struggle by Disney to accommodate disabled visitors while stopping past abuses by some theme park guests.
With a merger this big, creators, studios, and theaters all face uncertain futures. Here’s what experts are worried about and what good could come from it.
With disengagement rising and hybrid work shifting, 'Everybody Matters' author Bob Chapman explains why treating people well could define the future of work.
