View From Afar – Details, episodes & analysis

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View From Afar

View From Afar

Afar

Society & Culture

Frequency: 1 episode/9d. Total Eps: 47

Megaphone
View From Afar is a podcast by the travel industry, for the travel industry. The travel industry is constantly evolving, and in our latest podcast, View From Afar, Afar editors talk with the changemakers—the CEOs, tourism experts, hoteliers, and more—who are making travel better for consumers, and the world.
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Apple Podcasts

  • 🇺🇸 USA - placesAndTravel

    11/06/2026
    #11
  • 🇺🇸 USA - placesAndTravel

    10/06/2026
    #22
  • 🇨🇦 Canada - placesAndTravel

    23/12/2025
    #90
  • 🇨🇦 Canada - placesAndTravel

    14/12/2025
    #58
  • 🇺🇸 USA - placesAndTravel

    14/12/2025
    #78
  • 🇨🇦 Canada - placesAndTravel

    08/11/2025
    #82
  • 🇬🇧 Great Britain - placesAndTravel

    10/10/2025
    #93
  • 🇨🇦 Canada - placesAndTravel

    06/08/2025
    #98
  • 🇨🇦 Canada - placesAndTravel

    05/08/2025
    #35
  • 🇬🇧 Great Britain - placesAndTravel

    16/07/2025
    #74

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What If Luxury Hotels Listened More? This Accor CEO Proves It Changes Everything

jeudi 15 mai 2025Duration 32:00

How do you redefine luxury hospitality in 2025? For Maud Bailly, the CEO of four of Accor’s luxury hotel brands—Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery and Emblems—it starts with empathy.  In this episode of View From Afar, she chats with host Jennifer Flowers about how she’s reshaping luxury hospitality through bold sustainability, diverse teams and a global vision rooted in local impact.  In this episode you’ll learn:  The distinct identities of Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery and Emblems and how they serve distinct types of travelers.  How Accor Group is utilizing AI to reduce food waste and eco certify all of their luxury hotels by 2025.  What it’s like to be a woman in hospitality leadership and why diversity is a must for the hospitality industry.  Don’t miss these moments:  [04:07] How Sofitel offers travelers a little bit of France all over the world.  [13:42] This hotel in Panama brought tears to the local community.  [16:34] What it’s really like for a female leader in the luxury hospitality industry.  [22:59] Why hoteliers need more, not less, diversity in 2025.  Featured in this episode:  Sofitel Cotonou, Benin Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama City MGallery Nairobi Gem Forest, Kenya Emblems Collection by Accor Resources:  Read the transcript of this episode Read this Afar review of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo. Connect with Maud Bailly on LinkedIn. Explore the websites of Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery and Emblems. Learn more about Accor’s upcoming openings in Prague, Jaipur and Cairo. Subscribe to the newsletter, Afar Advisor to get a smart summary of need-to-know information for travel professionals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cruise Lines are Evolving to Attract New Travelers—Here’s How

mercredi 7 mai 2025Duration 25:18

Anne Kalosh is the editor of Seatrade Cruise News and she has decades of experience covering the cruise industry—so much experience, in fact, that she recently appeared on Netflix’s Everybody’s Live with John Mulaney.  On this episode of View From Afar, she joins host Aislyn Greene at Seatrade Cruise Global for a deep dive into the ways cruising is evolving to attract new travelers. From groundbreaking sustainability efforts to the growing influence of local communities—this is the future of cruising.  On this episode you’ll discover:  How Gen Z and millennials are impacting the cruising industry Which new cruise destinations to sail to in 2025, from Japan to Greenland Why Viking’s new ship marks a major milestone in the race to zero-emission cruising.   Don’t miss these moments:  [02:53] How local communities are transforming the cruise experience.  [07:03] Don’t miss these emerging cruise destinations in 2025.  [11:11] Viking announces a major leap in the race to net-zero cruising.  [14:11] Cruise recommendations for Anne’s celebrity costars, including John Mulaney and Quinta Brunson.  Featured cruise lines:  Viking  Carnival Cruise Line Norwegian Cruise Line Ponant  Explora Journeys Mitsui Ocean Cruises Four Seasons Yachts  Resources:  Read the transcript of this episode. Read Anne’s work at Seatrade Cruise News or connect with her on LinkedIn.  Explore 8 of the Most Exciting Cruise Destinations in 2025 Subscribe to the newsletter, Afar Advisor to get a smart summary of need-to-know information for travel professionals.  Dive into cruise news and resources on afar.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trends, News, and Cruises to Know From Seatrade Cruise Global

jeudi 1 mai 2025Duration 19:57

Cruising is evolving—and appealing to more people than ever. Live from Seatrade Cruise Global, this episode of View from Afar, unpacks the cruise news and innovations that surprised and inspired host Aislyn Greene and Afar co-founder Joe Diaz, during the world’s largest cruise industry conference.  From hydrogen-powered ships to hotel brands getting in on the action, these are the cruising trends to watch in 2025.  On this episode you’ll learn:  What the cruise industry’s commitment to sustainability really looks like Why the value proposition for cruising has never been better.  How hotel brands and destinations are banking on cruising.  The unique access cruise lines can offer travelers in 2025.  Don’t miss these moments:  [05:43] This little-known secret is the most inspiring thing about modern cruising.  [10:15] Why the value proposition for cruising has never been better.  [11:55] The off-the-beaten-path cruise we can’t wait to book.  Featured in this episode:  Viking Ponant Paul Gauguin Cruises Windstar Cruises Atlas Ocean Voyages Aurora Expeditions Scenic Luxury Cruises Hurtigruten Seabourn Silversea Explora Journeys Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection AmaWaterways Four Seasons Yachts Resources:  Read the transcript of this episode. Explore more Seatrade content on Unpacked by Afar, like this episode about sustainable cruising or this episode covering innovations.  Dive into cruise news and resources on afar.com. Sign up for the Afar Advisor newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Woman Reinventing One of Europe's Oldest Hospitality Brands

mercredi 30 avril 2025Duration 29:15

Welcome to View From Afar, a podcast by the travel industry, for the travel industry. In our inaugural episode, we hear from Barbara Muckermann, the first female CEO of Kempinski Hotels, a 128-year old global brand.  On this episode, Barbara chats with Afar senior deputy editor, Jennifer Flowers, about her plans to restore Kempinski’s luxury legacy, why places like Munich’s Nymphenburg Palace are key to the brand’s future, and what it takes to succeed as a woman—and elevate others— in the male-dominated hospitality industry.  Inside the Hotels Where History Happens On this episode you’ll learn:  How Kempinski hotels serve as cultural hubs in major cities like Bangkok, Istanbul, and Munich.  How a 128-year old, global brand plans to pivot in 2025.  Candid advice for women in hospitality and how Kempinski’s new CEO elevates future leaders.  How Kempinski Hotels Plans to Reclaim Luxury Don’t miss these moments:  [01:24] Liza Minelli and Einstein: Harnessing the past to build the future.  [04:46] What is the future of Kempinski Hotels? Think: the luxury of porcelain parrots.  [16:42] Kempinski palaces are cultural staples for travelers and locals alike.  [21:17] Advice on how women can continue to break the glass ceiling in hospitality.  Resources:  Read the transcript of the episode. Read Jenn’s ⁠feature ⁠about six women who are changing the future of hotels.  Explore Kempinski hotels on their ⁠website⁠ or ⁠Instagram⁠.  Connect with Barbara Muckermann on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠or ⁠Instagram⁠. Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠⁠Behind the Mic⁠⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠⁠Travel Tales⁠⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: Caroline Beteta on Building California's Sustainable Tourism Future

samedi 21 juin 2025Duration 20:40

California's tourism powerhouse is gearing up for its biggest decade yet. In this ⁠IPW 2025⁠ episode,  recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, ⁠Visit California⁠ president and CEO Caroline Beteta sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how nearly three decades of experience has shaped her strategy for promoting the nation's top tourism revenue generator. Beteta reveals the counterintuitive challenge of mega-events like the ⁠2026 World Cup⁠ and ⁠2028 Olympics⁠—how they can actually deter leisure travelers despite the global spotlight—and shares lessons learned from Paris about maximizing these opportunities. She also discusses California's approach to crisis communication, from putting recent L.A. wildfires and protests into proper context to reassuring international visitors that "everyone is welcome." Beteta also highlights what's transforming the Golden State—billions in new infrastructure including LAX's $30 billion upgrade, ⁠Disneyland's 70th anniversary⁠ celebrations, and emerging destinations like the new tent resort ⁠The River Electric⁠ in Sonoma—all while maintaining the state's commitment to sustainable tourism through comprehensive stewardship planning. What You’ll Learn Though the fires in January 2025 were severe, they impacted only 2 percent of LA County Domestic tourism is strong in California—80 percent of visitors come from the U.S.—and, like many others, the state has seen a dip in international inbound travel. New developments are in the works, including a $30 billion expansion at LAX and a hospitality campus in Orange County. California is ready to welcome visitors before and after the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics Key Moments [09:15] Over 80 percent of California's visitors are domestic travelers.  [11:34]: According to Beteta, they have not had any reports of visitors on tourist visas being detained at a California airport.  [13:29]: New hotel openings include Gaylord Pacific Resort on the water in Chula Vista, just outside San Diego, and The River Electric, a glamping resort and swim club in Sonoma.  [15:09] Beteta explains that being green and sustainable is part of California's DNA, and that extends to the hospitality industry. Resources Read the transcript of this episode Learn more about Visit California Find Visit California on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok Read Afar’s recent California coverage 🇺🇸 America 250 Update: California will host several World Cup games in 2026 and LA will host the 2028 Summer Olympics.  Previous Episode: Kristen Reynolds, Choose Chicago. Up Next: Walt Leger, New Orleans & Company. Complete Series: View From Afar Also in this IPW series: Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale, talking about Greater Fort Lauderdale’s impressive diversity, welcoming mindset, and beautiful beaches. Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: Choose Chicago's Kristen Reynolds on Pope Leo, the Obama Center, and the City's Next Chapter

samedi 21 juin 2025Duration 22:30

Chicago is poised for a global spotlight with the historic appointment of Chicago-born Pope Leo. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Choose Chicago president and CEO Kristen Reynolds sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how her unconventional journey from Arizona tourism to Long Island destination transformation has prepared her to lead the Windy City's bold marketing vision. Reynolds shares how Chicago is doubling down on its "Never Done, Never Outdone" campaign to celebrate the city's diversity and inclusion values, even while challenging false narratives about urban safety. Reynolds also reveals what's on the horizon—the Obama Presidential Center opening in 2026, America 250 celebrations highlighting Chicago's role in the nation's evolution, and the city's record-breaking $20 billion tourism impact—as well as her newfound appreciation for Chicago's unmatched culinary scene and James Beard Award winners. What You’ll Learn Three Chicago restaurants/bars won James Beard awards this year The Pope’s appointment will be a tourism boon for the city The ⁠Obama Presidential Center⁠ is opening in 2026 and will include a garden and athletics complex One of the biggest tourism challenges is a false narrative about the city’s safety Chicago’s biggest international source markets Where Kristen Reynolds takes her friends and family when they visit Chicago Key Moments [08:42] Chicago’s biggest tourism challenge is a false narrative about the city’s safety. [11:00]: Winter in Chicago may be tough, but this is when you’ll find the best deals and fewest tourists [12:08]: It’s essential that any elected official understands the value of what the tourism industry brings to the community  [13:42] Chicago had 55 million visitors in 2024 and saw over $20 billion in tourism economic impact. Resources Read the transcript of this episode Learn more about Choose Chicago Find Choose Chicago on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok Read Afar’s recent Chicago coverage 📊 By the Numbers:  Chicago has 77 neighborhoods and, in 2024, saw more than 55 million visitors.  Previous Episode: Stacy Ritter, Visit Lauderdale. Up Next: Caroline Beteta, Visit California. Complete Series: View From Afar Also in this IPW series: Hear from Angela Val, President and CEO of Visit Philadelphia, about how this welcoming city is the birthplace of democracy. Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: Stacy Ritter Has Made Fort Lauderdale Florida's Most Inclusive Destination—Despite Politics

vendredi 20 juin 2025Duration 21:51

Fort Lauderdale—Florida's LGBTQ+ capital—has proved that staying true to your values can be the best marketing strategy of all. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Visit Lauderdale President and CEO Stacey Ritter sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how her unconventional path from lawyer to politician to tourism leader has shaped her bold approach to destination marketing. Ritter shares how Fort Lauderdale has doubled down on its "Everyone Under the Sun" campaign to celebrate diversity and inclusion, even amid challenging political climates in Florida—all while successfully differentiating the region from Miami as a diverse, more relaxed, flip flop–friendly destination. Ritter also reveals what's on the horizon—Fort Lauderdale is hosting IPW 2026 at its newly expanded convention center with an 801-room Omni Fort Lauderdale hotel on the Intracoastal Waterway—as well as her newfound obsession with pickleball and the destination's first Michelin-starred restaurant. What You’ll Learn How Greater Fort Lauderdale ensures visitors know that everyone is welcome here That Fort Lauderdale represents 170 nations and people who speak 148 languages, all united in making visitors feel genuinely welcome and at home An Omni hotel at Fort Lauderdale’s convention center opens in September 2025 Fort Lauderdale is not a suburb of Miami, despite what a map may show you That Visit Lauderdale is a tourism agency that leads with its values: being open and inclusive to everyone Ritter’s insider tips for the best of Fort Lauderdale Key Moments [04:25] When Florida's tourism site removed its LQBTQ+ content, Greater Fort Lauderdale—the LGBTQ+ capital of Florida—doubled down, embracing its history.  [07:31] A new facility has opened in Snyder Park with more than 40 pickleball courts, a bar and restaurant, and a lake with a beach. (You’ll find Ritter there.) [9:44]: Ritter reminders listeners that “failure is an option in life, but not trying is never an option”  [13:06] What makes Ft. Lauderdale so enticing? Warm water, top-rated restaurants you can access by boat, and great shopping.  Resources Read the transcript of this episode. Learn more about the Visit Lauderdale. Find Visit Lauderdale on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Read Afar’s Fort Lauderdale coverage. 📊 By the Numbers:  Broward County’s 2 million residents come from 170 countries and speak 140 languages. Ten percent of Broward’s residents are directly or indirectly employed in tourism. Fort Lauderdale has 24 miles of beach. Previous Episode: Josh Earnest, Executive Vice President of Communications and Advertising of United Airlines. Up Next: Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago. Complete Series: View From Afar Also in this IPW series: Hear from Angela Val, President and CEO of Visit Philadelphia, about how this welcoming city is the birthplace of democracy. Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: United's Josh Earnest on Newark's Turnaround and the Infrastructure Revolution Aviation Needs

jeudi 19 juin 2025Duration 23:34

The single biggest thing that will improve our air travel system and make it better for everyone involved? Government investment, says Josh Earnest, Executive Vice President of Communications and Advertising of United Airlines. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Josh Earnest sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss United's ambitious strategic vision, from massive international route expansion to onboard innovations like Starlink WiFi across their entire fleet. Earnest candidly addresses the Newark Airport challenges that plagued travelers earlier this year, explaining how government-imposed flight limits have transformed it into the most reliable airport in the New York area with 85 percent on-time performance. Drawing from his experience as former White House Press Secretary, he also tackles the intersection of travel and politics, discussing how changing perceptions about America affect international tourism while advocating for crucial air traffic control infrastructure investments that could revolutionize the flying experience for everyone. What You’ll Learn How United asked the government for help to deal with the Newark challenges How the pandemic changed the way United designs its route network planning That United may not have the cheapest tickets, but believes it offers the most value by having good service, reliability, and convenience.  That United flies to about 144 international destinations, 34 of which have no flights from other U.S. carriers.  That United’s 10-20 year plan includes not only offering the best possible customer experience but also one that’s kinder to the environment. Key Moments [03:46] Following challenges at Newark, including limited capacity and staffing shortages, United asked for and received more federal regulations for the airport.  [05:37] By far the biggest thing the federal government can do that would have the most impact on air travel is to invest in the infrastructure of air traffic control.  [09:26] 80-85 percent of United’s travelers are people in the U.S. buying tickets to travel internationally, so the airline hasn’t seen a huge impact from the major decrease in inbound international tourism. [10:43] Earnest would like potential international visitors to try not to judge the country based on what our politicians say or what they may see on social media, but to come see the U.S. for themselves. [12:44] During the winter 2025 season, United will be increasing its flights from Chicago to warm weather places like Florida by as much as 15-20 percent. Resources Read the transcript of this episode Book a flight with United Find United on Instagram and Facebook Afar’s air travel coverage  Previous Episode: Adam Burke, President and CEO of Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board. Up Next: Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale. Complete Series: View From Afar Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live from IPW: Adam Burke on Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Visit Los Angeles

jeudi 19 juin 2025Duration 24:32

Los Angeles is proving that resilience and opportunity go hand in hand. In this IPW 2025 episode,  recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Bureau President and CEO Adam Burke sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how L.A. is transforming challenges into catalysts for growth. From navigating the aftermath of January's devastating wildfires and recent protests to preparing for the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics, Burke shares how the city's incredible diversity—with residents from 140 countries speaking over 220 languages—makes it uniquely positioned as a welcoming global destination. What You’ll Learn Though the wildfires were catastrophic, less than 2 percent of the L.A. region was affected.  The U.S. has gone from having a $50 travel trade surplus to a $50 million deficit L.A. is the first urban destination in the U.S. to join the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. How Los Angeles Tourism helps smaller, diverse-owned businesses have better access to the power of tourism Key Moments [04:13] LA. is a true global city; residents come from 140 different countries and speak over 220 different languages. [08:08] During Dine LA restaurant week, Los Angeles Tourism and Bank of California were able to donate $100,000 to wildfire relief efforts. [11:12]: One of the most important things a tourism organization can do is be a trusted and reliable source of information. [12:48]: Over the last 15 years, Brand USA has generated $24 for every $1 it spent promoting tourism across the country.  Featured Topics L.A. as one of the most diverse and inclusive destinations globally The 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics How community support helped LA businesses recover after the January 2025 wildfires Travel and tourism as a form of diplomacy Where Burke takes his family and friends when they visit—all without a car. Resources Read the transcript of this episode Learn more about Discover Los Angeles Find Discover Los Angeles on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok Previous Episode: Bill Hornbuckle on the importance of government-travel industry collaboration Up Next: Josh Earnest, Executive Vice President of Communications and Advertising of United Airlines. Complete Series: View From Afar Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live From IPW: From Vegas Vision to National Mission, Bill Hornbuckle's High-Stakes Bet on American Tourism

jeudi 19 juin 2025Duration 22:29

What happens when a casino CEO takes on America's tourism challenges? In this IPW 2025 episode,  recorded live from the conference floor in Chicago, MGM Resorts CEO and U.S. Travel Association Chair Bill Hornbuckle sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss the state of international inbound travel. Hornbuckle has watched Vegas transform from a "free food, free rooms, come gamble" destination to a sports and entertainment hub where, for hotels like the Bellagio, 70 percent of its revenue is non-gaming. Now he's applying those lessons to America's bigger challenge: turning a $50 billion tourism deficit into a surplus while preparing for major events like the World Cup and America's 250th anniversary. With Chinese visitors down 50 percent, lengthy visa wait times, and travelers facing hours-long immigration lines, Hornbuckle argues that America's fragmented approach to tourism—spread across multiple government departments—is holding the nation back. His solution mirrors what worked in Vegas: bringing everyone together behind a unified vision. What You’ll Learn How spending in Vegas has changed since the 1980s What major sports events are coming to Las Vegas in 2025, 2026, and beyond.  That funding the FAA is crucial for increasing inbound international tourism How long it can take for a train line to open without public sector support That the U.S. tourism sector needs government support to survive Key Moments [04:45] In the 1980s, 80 percent of revenue was tied to the casino and 20% to rooms; today 70 percent of revenue at the Bellagio, for example, is not related to the casino. [09:51] How can the tourism industry work with the government to ensure visas are processed faster and airport lines move more quickly? [13:45] The Brightline train connecting LA and Las Vegas is $10 billion project 25 years in the making.  [16:52]: The U.S. Travel Association wants visitors to know that, despite the rhetoric people may hear, they’re very welcome. Featured Topics The way travel to Vegas has evolved in the past few decades The U.S. travel industry needs significant government support to continue The essential need for visitors to feel welcome, starting with faster visa processing How critical it is to have enough staff at airports across the country Resources Read the transcript of this episode Learn more about the U.S. Travel Association Find U.S. Travel Association on Instagram and Facebook Previous Episode: Angela Val on how Philadelphia, the birthplace of democracy, is for everyone. Up Next: Adam Burke, CEO and President of Los Angeles Tourism. Complete Series: View From Afar Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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