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Weekly Travel News Update: The Top Stories You Missed this Week

We’ve rounded up the biggest buzzworthy news in the travel industry this week. If you blinked, you might’ve missed these gems.

Southwest Airlines Will Start Assigned Seating

Southwest Airlines will end its open seating policy in January 2026, allowing passengers to choose seats at booking.

U.S. Passport Slips in Global Rankings

The decline of the U.S. passport reflects geopolitical shifts, evolving diplomatic relationships and changes in global power dynamics.

U.S. Debut: American Airlines Pilots One Stop Security Screening

American Airlines is the first U.S. airline to test gate-side Customs clearance for international arrivals.

Q&A With Grenada Tourism Authority’s New CEO, Stacey Liburd

Grenada's new tourism CEO discusses strategies for growth, including sustainable practices and working closely with travel advisors.

TSA Rolls Out “Families on the Fly” Campaign

“Families on the Fly” is a new TSA initiative aimed at making airport security more welcoming and family-friendly.

Hurricane Preparedness Guide: 2025 Atlantic Season [UPDATED]

Travel advisors who implement preparedness strategies position themselves as invaluable resources during a challenging season.

Margaritaville at Sea Shares Details on Its Largest Ship Yet: Beachcomber

Margaritaville at Sea unveils its largest ship yet, Beachcomber, featuring new experiences and the brand’s signature laid-back style.

Egypt Travel Advisory Downgraded

The U.S. State Department has lowered Egypt’s travel advisory to Level 2. Help your clients plan a secure and memorable trip to Egypt.

Collette Launches New Digital Resource

Collette has unveiled a new video designed to help travel advisors communicate the value of the company’s premium experience.

Israel Appoints New Director General of Ministry of Tourism

Michael Yitzhakov appointed Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, bringing a decade of government experience to the role.

Disney World Shares What’s New for the 2025 Holiday Season

If you're planning holiday escapes for families this holiday season, check out what's in store at Walt Disney World Resort.

Hyatt Reshapes Leadership for Global Expansion

Hyatt's transitions, effective July 1, 2025, position the company to capitalize on development opportunities across multiple markets.

Atlas Ocean Voyages Expands Leadership with Appointment of Kristian C. Anderson

Atlas Ocean Voyages has named Kristian C. Anderson as Executive Vice President of Global Sales. He will oversee all sales initiatives.

Pursuit Heads South with Acquisition in Costa Rica

Known for its northern adventures, Pursuit is expanding into warmer destinations with the purchase of Costa Rica’s Tabacon Resort.

Europe Scorches Under Record Heatwave

A heatwave continues to hammer Europe this week with temperatures soaring, triggering health alerts and travel disruptions.

Travel Tails: Pet-Friendly Getaways

Traveling with pets has evolved beyond basic accommodation to include luxury experiences where canines are pampered as much as their owners.

Shorter Trips, Bigger Impact: U.S. Travelers Embrace Micro-Cations

Micro-cations—trips of four nights or fewer taken more than 100 miles from home—are surging in popularity due to time, cost and experience.

Hyatt Expands Its All-Inclusive Portfolio with Acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts

Hyatt has officially completed its acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts. The deal includes 15 resorts previously owned and managed by Playa.

ASTA Issues Statement on the Administration’s Expanded Travel Ban

ASTA President & CEO Zane Kerby warns travel bans create industry-wide uncertainty and hurt small businesses.

The Travel Corporation (TTC) Strengthens Trade Partnerships

TTC announced a global growth plan for its Touring and River Cruise Divisions focused on driving success for travel advisor partners.

GOP Budget Bill Would Slash Brand USA Funding by 80%

Brand USA may have a lot less money at its disposal to promote travel to the U.S., which is already taking a hit.

Seaworld Orlando Kicks Off Summer with First-Ever Drone Show

The innovative nighttime production, which kicked off on Saturday, June 7, 2025, is part of the park’s Ignite Fireworks Spectacular.

Exclusive Vatican Program Offers Unprecedented Access

The new Pope has increased interest in Vatican visits; now you can offer clients an opportunity that goes beyond typical tourist experiences.
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