Dreading your next post-flight rental car pick up? United Airlines is offering loyalty perks to those longing for an alternative. Wondering about your attendees’ flight experiences? A new study delves into what airports will keep them smiling. Looking for an incentive that will wow guests? Many meeting profs are looking to Fiji, which is experiencing record-breaking visitor numbers. As always, Smart Travel is here to keep you in the loop on the latest can’t-miss travel news.
Dream Yacht Worldwide Shares Trends, 2025 Predictions
Dream Yacht Worldwide (DYW) says its research reveals that early bookings, short-haul vacations and destinations beyond the Caribbean are among the top travel and sailing trends of 2024.
The sea-based vacations company reports a 108% increase in bookings (year on year ahead) for summer 2025, though this is possibly due in part to early-bird offers and savings or the opportunity to book a preferred yacht and itinerary before it becomes unavailable.
Additionally, DYW has seen that, although Americans prefer to stick closer to the North American mainland— 73% of bookings are in the Caribbean and the Bahamas—travelers who have already experienced these destinations are increasingly drawn to French Polynesia (up 10%), Thailand (bookings have more than doubled) and the Seychelles (up 240%).
“These beautiful destinations offer diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and unparalleled sailing experiences with amazing itineraries to explore, making them ideal for travelers seeking to broaden their horizons and travel experiences,” said Loïc Bonnet, DYW president.
New Study Reveals Best U.S. Airports for Enjoyable Travel
A new study by online casino website Nieuwe Casino has pinpointed the top 10 recommended airports, based on data collected from reviews, facilities and Google search volumes of the 31 busiest airports in America. Valentijn Bakker, editor of Nieuwe Casino, said, “Navigating and spending time in airports can often cause stress for many people traveling. However, the study provides useful insight into those airports that have the potential to offer not just a stress-free experience but an enjoyable one as well—helping to turn the often-tiring waiting periods into an opportunity to unwind and begin your vacation before you touch down in your destination.” Factors such as dining options, retail shops and leisure spaces were considered; so without further ado, here’s where that long layover can be a breeze:
- Tampa International Airport
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport
- San Francisco International Airport
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- Orlando International Airport
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
Turo Partners with United Airlines to Offer MileagePlus Members Perks
If, like me, you have exhaled a giant uugghh after completing a cross-country flight only to discover an astoundingly long line at the rental car desk, here’s potential good news: United Airlines and Turo are partnering to offer an alternative. Turo, the world’s largest peer-to-peer car sharing marketplace, features hosts across the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia and France, and provides users with a seamless end-to-end booking experience (said as someone who has used the service and personally highly recommend it).
United customers will earn five miles for every dollar spent on their first Turo trip and one mile per dollar on subsequent trips. Turo offers delivery options to airports, hotels and numerous other locations, so we can can skip the dreaded visit to the rental car counter altogether.
Tourism Fiji Announces Record-Breaking Numbers
Tourism Fiji has released its latest arrivals numbers, with a record 822,253 visitors between January and October of this year, a 6.5% increase compared to the same period in 2023 and surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The growing international demand for immersive and culturally rich travel has been boosted by Tourism Fiji’s brand platform, Where Happiness Comes Naturally. As the number of tourists to the islands increases, Fiji is responding by welcoming new hotels and resorts, including The Crown Plaza Nadi, Sofitel Vatu Talei Denarau, Radisson Blu Mirage Resort and Hilton Garden Inn Suva.
Tourism Fiji CEO Brent Hill said, “This has been a landmark year for Fiji, as we celebrate record-breaking visitor numbers and a renewed global appreciation for everything that makes our islands unique. Our success reflects more than just breathtaking beaches—it’s about the authentic Fijian experiences and connections travelers have here.… The future of tourism in Fiji is bright, with exciting new developments and global recognition for our hospitality. We’re proud to share the warmth and magic of Fiji with more visitors than ever before, as we continue to grow sustainably and authentically.”
Walt Disney World Shares New Details on 2025 Experiences
Brand-new shows, immersive dining lounges and wow-inducing magical experiences are among Walt Disney World Resort‘s 2025 offerings. Our top picks include:
Spaceship Earth Lounge at EPCOT: Opening late spring, the elegant and comfortable lounge will offer visitors innovative menu options to be enjoyed while taking in views of World Celebration Gardens and nightly fireworks.
“Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” at Magic Kingdom: A new evening parade and spectacle will open summer 2025 and include characters from “Peter Pan,” “Encanto,” “Frozen,” “Moana” and more.
Pirates of the Caribbean-Inspired Tavern at Magic Kingdom: Opening late 2025, it promises a world of fun and adventure, enjoyed while dining on a sea-worthy menu of dishes.
Walt Disney World Resort will be offering guests at all Disney Resorts Collection hotels free admission to a Disney Water Park on their arrival day, as well as exclusive early access to all the resort’s parks.
