Tampa, Florida, has emerged as the top cruise destination for 2024, surpassing its popular neighbor Orlando. With its warm weather, diverse attractions, and fewer crowds, Tampa offers a refreshing alternative for those seeking a relaxed yet exciting cruise experience. As the cruising industry experiences an unprecedented surge in popularity, travelers are seeking new and less congested destinations, making Tampa a prime spot for tourists looking to escape the crowds.
As summer approaches, travelers seek out unforgettable destinations for relaxation and adventure. Among the top picks for 2024 are Grand Wailea Maui, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, with its nine pools and expansive spa in the serene Hawaiian paradise of Wailea Beach; Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort, nestled in the tranquil coastal region between Cancun’s vibrant Hotel Zone and Riviera Maya; The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St. James London, Curio Collection by Hilton, offering panoramic views of London’s iconic landmarks while serving delectable cuisine; the reimagined Waldorf Astoria Orlando, boasting transformed accommodations, culinary delights, and enhanced amenities; and Kingston Resorts in Myrtle Beach, providing a plethora of activities for families, including waterparks, lawn games, and a spa.
According to the Mastercard Economic Institute’s “Travel Trends 2024: Breaking Boundaries” study, Amsterdam stands as the most sought-after travel destination for Indian travelers this summer. The study highlights a shift in travel habits, with Indians embracing new and diverse locations, including Japan, Vietnam, and the United States. Despite the rising US dollar, Indian travelers continue to embark on international trips, reflecting a growing desire for exploration and discovery.
The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) participated in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 with a delegation of over 72 partners, showcasing summer destinations and forging partnerships to boost tourism. The agency signed over 40 agreements, including collaborations with Flyadeal, Noon, and China i2i Group, and strategic alliances with Saudia and Riyadh Air. STA’s CEO and Board Member, Fahd Hamidaddin, emphasized the importance of regional collaboration and pledged to position the GCC as a global tourism hub.
At the recently concluded Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) made a strong impact, forging strategic partnerships, showcasing summer destinations, and attracting a record number of visitors. With over 72 partners in attendance, STA inked agreements with Flyadeal, Noon, China i2i Group, Saudia, and Riyadh Air, signaling a new era of growth for Saudi’s tourism sector.
Flydubai expands its seasonal offerings with 10 new summer destinations: Bodrum, Dalaman, Dubrovnik, Mykonos, Santorini, Sharm el-Sheikh, Trabzon, Tivat, Varna, and Yerevan. Additionally, the airline will launch flights to four new European destinations: Basel, Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius. These expansions enhance flydubai’s network and provide travelers with more options for summer getaways and connections between the Middle East and Europe.
The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) is showcasing Saudi Arabia’s exceptional summer destinations at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai. Led by CEO Fahd Hamidaddin, a delegation of 72 partners, including destination management companies, hoteliers, and airlines, is highlighting Saudi’s unique summer offerings to trade partners and consumers, particularly from the GCC. With a focus on expanding its influence in priority markets like India and China, the STA aims to build on the over 23 million visits from the MEA and APAC regions last year. The Saudi exhibit at ATM 2024 features hundreds of bookable products for destinations such as Jeddah, AlUla, Aseer, Riyadh, and the Red Sea, alongside interactive experiences and cultural performances. The introduction of the “Saudi Rewards” scheme offers points on tourism-related activities, further enhancing the visitor experience. The STA and its partners aim to surpass last year’s success, where over 50,000 visitors were welcomed at the Saudi stand and significant deals were struck.
