Business and Industry Watch

Cruise lines tout value for corporate meetings
The cruise industry, like hotels and convention centers, is concerned that the public backlash over lavish corporate retreats, incentive trips and other meetings will negatively affect its business. So far, however, the industry and travel agencies have reported an uptick in this area of operations. "My sense is that while this business is likely overall headed south, for the time being, cruising may see a boom in this area due to the overall value meetings aboard ships provide as compared to a land program," said Howard Moses, president of the Cruise Authority in Atlanta. Travel Weekly (2/24)

Travelport reduces expenses to counter lower revenues
Travelport, parent company of the global distribution systems Galileo and Worldspan, posted a 19% drop in fourth-quarter revenue in 2008. Cost-cutting measures helped the company's bottom line, according to chief financial officer Mike Rescoe. "Over two years ago, we started reducing Travelport's cost structure through our re-engineering cost savings and Worldspan synergies programs," Rescoe said. "These actions have better positioned the company to withstand the significant decline in travel demand that has continued to deteriorate throughout the year." Travel Weekly (2/24)

Delta Queen to become floating hotel on Tennessee River
The Delta Queen, an 82-year-old stern-wheel steamboat that once cruised up and down the Mississippi River, is to be revived as a hotel and lounge near Chattanooga after being banished as a cruise vessel. The Delta Queen's twin vessel, the Delta King, is also a floating hotel and restaurant, permanently moored in Sacramento. USA TODAY/The Associated Press (2/24)

Consultancy advises travel companies on steps to take
Hudson Crossing has offered "Five Steps Travel Companies Should Take Now" to deal with the credit crunch and ensuing recession. "Unlike recent economic downturns, this recession is rooted in bank failures and limited access to capital for businesses and consumers. At a time when travel enterprises have no access to cash and consumer consumption is dramatically declining, surviving will in and of itself be an accomplishment," said Michael W. McCormick, managing partner at Hudson Crossing. Travel Trade (2/23)

Column: Economic meltdown spurs new travel trends
The global economic downturn has triggered a number of travel trends, including sales on air travel, continued capacity cuts, the proliferation of ancillary fees and a decline in both meetings and attendance. Columnist David Grossman discusses these and other trends. USA TODAY (2/24)

Consumer Travel News

Orosei Gulf offers quiet holiday on Sardinian coast
Costa Smeralda is filled with Italian playboys and paparazzi, but for those interested in a more low-key vacation on Sardinia, Orosei Gulf is a beautiful alternative. Isolated beaches, limestone cliffs and the blue waters of the Mediterranean make this a breathtaking getaway. The New York Times (2/22)

Column: Anguilla's elegant simplicity draws tourists
James Ruggia says Anguilla, which is home to only about 12,000 people, is one of those destinations with outstanding dining; genuine, friendly people; top-notch accommodations; and breathtaking scenery. Many consider the island their top choice for a Caribbean getaway. TravelPulse (2/25)

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