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by Mia Taylor Last updated: 8:00 AM ET, Mon January 12, 2026 When it comes to shaping global travel trends, identifying the latest hotspots or driving awareness for new cruises, there are different types of influencers: Social media influencers. And the real influencers: travel advisors and travel industry insiders.Social media influencers are paid to promote destinations, hotels, and cruises. But travel advisors and travel industry insiders recommend each of these things because they’re experienced travel professionals who have a deep understanding of quality, service and the latest industry developments. And in many cases, they’ve also vetted the product being recommended. …

Smart rings, smart screens, smart TVs, smart pins, smart … ice cube makers? Sure, why not! AI was everywhere at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, where companies large and small were showing off how they’re bringing AI to more devices. For Amazon, CES was a time to show off its newest acquisition in the space: Bee, an AI device that can be worn as a clip-on pin or a bracelet. Amazon already has an entry in the AI consumer devices space with Alexa, whose upgraded AI-powered version, Alexa+, can run on 97% of the hardware devices Amazon…

by Donald Wood Last updated: 8:00 AM ET, Mon January 12, 2026 Budget carrier Allegiant announced Sunday night that it plans to acquire Sun Country Airlines in a $1.5 billion cash and stock deal.Upon the proposed closing of the deal and pending approval, Allegiant and Sun Country shareholders will own approximately 67 percent and 33 percent, respectively, of the combined company on a fully diluted basis. “This combination is an exciting next chapter in Allegiant and Sun Country’s shared mission in providing affordable, reliable, and convenient service from underserved communities to premier leisure destinations,” Allegiant CEO Gregory C. Anderson said. “We…

In early tests with a review unit of Bee, we found the device itself was easy to use. It’s just a press of a button to turn recording on or off. In the app, you can configure whether a double press bookmarks a section of the conversation, processes the current conversation, or both, and you can set whether a press and hold gesture lets you leave a voice note or chat with the AI assistant. (Bee’s companion app currently reminds you to enable voice notes, so we did.) Like many other AI products and services, such as Plaud, Granola, Fathom,…

by Lacey Pfalz Last updated: 8:30 AM ET, Mon January 12, 2026 Norwegian Cruise Line is rebranding with a new national TV campaign and brand identity, becoming the leader in freestyle cruising, focusing on anytime dining and entertainment offerings. The new tagline? “It’s Different Out Here”.NCL’s brand platform was developed in partnership with Arnold Worldwide. The new campaign will focus on the line’s mission to make traveling and reconnecting with loved ones easy, and how travelers can be fully present onboard.  The TV campaign commercial, “For All Maritime,” is a cinematic narrative focusing on the line’s freedom and flexibility. The…

With AI igniting an investor frenzy, every month, more startups obtain unicorn status.  Using data from Crunchbase and PitchBook, TechCrunch tracked down the VC-backed startups that became unicorns in 2025. While most are AI-related, a surprising number are focused in other industries like satellite space companies Loft Orbital and blockchain-based trading site Kalshi.    This list will be updated throughout the year, so check back and see the latest powerhouse startups that are now worth over $1 billion.  December    Heven Aerotech —$1 billion: This startup, founded in 2019, is creating hydrogen-powered drones. It last raised a $100 million Series B, and has raised $115.2…

YOKOHAMA, Japan (AP) — Young women in brightly colored long-sleeved kimonos and young men in formal and traditional wear celebrated Japan’s Coming of Age Day on Monday for people who have turned 20. Coming of Age Day is a widely observed public rite of passage in Japan. Before and after the brief ceremonies, the young adults greeted friends on sidewalks and nearby train stations. Smartphones were raised repeatedly as they took selfies and photos of each other. Among the many men wearing black and navy suits, a large number chose traditional hakama trousers and haori jackets. Young adults leave a…

by Lacey Pfalz Last updated: 10:25 AM ET, Mon January 12, 2026 American Airlines is taking in the New Year with new alcohol-free beverages and refreshed onboard menus, beginning February 1. Customers who want to drink without the effects can enjoy Athletic Brewing Company’s Free Wave Hazy IPA, the airline’s first inflight non-alcoholic beer.  Additionally, new beverages include Q MARGARITA MIX, Q TONIC WATER and Q CLUB SODA, as well as two LaCroix Sparking Water flavors, Lime and Berry.American’s newest in-flight beverage: Athletic Brewing Co.’s Free Wave Hazy IPA, a non-alcoholic beer. (Photo Credit: American Airlines)Also beginning February 1, travelers will…

by Donald Wood Last updated: 10:30 AM ET, Mon January 12, 2026 Arrivia and Bon Voyage. (Photo Credit: Arrivia and Bon Voyage Media)WHY IT RATES: Luxury travel continues to be a growth bright spot within in the industry, and Arrivia is getting in on the action.—Donald Wood, Managing Editor. Arrivia, a global travel loyalty and technology company, today announced the acquisition of Bon Voyage Travel, a luxury-focused travel agency known for its advisor-led service model, deep supplier relationships, and curated premium travel experiences.The combination enhances arrivia’s presence in the luxury cruise segment by pairing Bon Voyage Travel’s high-touch advisory expertise…

The 83rd Golden Globes was a standout evening for streaming platforms. Netflix led the pack with seven wins, while Apple TV and HBO Max each secured three awards, and Hulu took home one.​ Among Netflix’s highlights, the hit series “Adolescence” claimed four awards, including best limited series. The show also earned awards for best actor (Stephen Graham), supporting actor (Owen Cooper), and supporting actress (Erin Doherty) in a miniseries. Netflix’s most-watched title, “KPop Demon Hunters,” won best animated feature and best original song.​ Netflix’s Golden Globes sweep comes just as the company prepares for the biggest moves in Hollywood: the…