MSC Cruises is enhancing its footprint at Port Canaveral by introducing a second vessel, enriching the array of 7-night voyages and shorter excursions to The Bahamas. Today, the company disclosed its plans for MSC Grandiosa to commence operations from the Central Florida port in December 2025, joining the beloved MSC Seashore.

The addition of a second vessel at Port Canaveral will significantly broaden the options available to MSC Cruises’ passengers. MSC Grandiosa will present alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean routes, while MSC Seashore will continue to offer 3- and 4-night journeys to Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the company’s exclusive island retreat in The Bahamas.

Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said: “The Winter 2025-2026 season will mark our largest presence in the U.S. to date, and our expansion at Port Canaveral is a big part of that. Ever since we started sailing from Port Canaveral in 2021, our guests have told us they love how convenient that makes it to experience MSC Cruises’ unique international flavor. We know people sailing from Central Florida want options, and we’re delighted to offer them two of our most modern and glamorous ships with itineraries that will appeal to everyone from first-time to seasoned cruisers.”

Itinerary Highlights:

MSC Grandiosa: 7-Night Routes
Eastern Caribbean: Stops at Nassau (The Bahamas), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas), Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), San Juan (Puerto Rico), and Charlotte Amalie (US Virgin Islands)
Western Caribbean: Visits Nassau (The Bahamas), Cozumel (Mexico), Costa Maya (Mexico), George Town (Cayman Islands), Montego Bay (Jamaica), Falmouth (Jamaica), and Belize City (Belize)
MSC Seashore: 3- and 4-Night Routes
Stops at Nassau and Ocean Cay, with select itineraries offering an additional day at sea

Capt. John Murray, CEO, Port Canaveral, said: “We are honored that MSC Cruises chose Port Canaveral for the North American debut of their magnificent MSC Grandiosa. We are so proud of our cruise partner and their tremendous growth in the United States. Expanding their homeport fleet at Port Canaveral underscores their confidence in our partnership and shared commitment to success. We look forward to welcoming all of their valued cruise guests to our beautiful port.”

MSC Grandiosa, a flagship of MSC Cruises’ Meraviglia-plus class fleet, is set to make waves as the largest vessel to call Port Canaveral home upon her arrival next year. Boasting a plethora of amenities, here are some standout features:

• Extending over 1,094 feet in length and 141 feet in width
• Offering 2,421 well-appointed staterooms
• Showcasing a culinary journey with 10 distinct restaurants, including the acclaimed Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Kaito Sushi, Kaito Tepanyaki, and L’Atelier Bistrot
• Providing ample aquatic delights with five pools and nine inviting hot tubs, along with the exhilarating Wild Forest Aquapark
• Elevating the luxury experience with an enhanced MSC Yacht Club and the expansive MSC Aurea Spa
• Entertaining guests with a state-of-the-art Broadway-style theater and the mesmerizing Carousel Lounge for nightly performances
• Featuring the iconic 323-foot-long Galleria Grandiosa promenade adorned with a stunning LED sky screen

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve:

Nestled in The Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve epitomizes MSC Cruises’ commitment to marine conservation and ecological stewardship. Spread across more than two miles of pristine coastline and encompassing eight breathtaking beaches, this idyllic sanctuary invites guests to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the Bahamas. From sun-soaked shores to crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, Ocean Cay offers endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure alike. Moreover, as part of MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Program, the island serves as a hub for coral reef restoration efforts and conservation initiatives worldwide.

In the coming months, MSC Cruises will unveil a series of enhancements to Ocean Cay, including expanded excursion centers, additional dining options, and upgraded swimming areas. For MSC Yacht Club guests, the experience will be further elevated with an expanded Ocean House bar and restaurant, ensuring unparalleled luxury and comfort throughout their voyage.

MSC Yacht Club:

For discerning travelers seeking the epitome of luxury, the MSC Yacht Club delivers an exclusive haven aboard every sailing from Port Canaveral. With personalized services, lavish suite accommodations, and private facilities such as a dedicated pool and sundeck, guests are pampered from the moment they embark. Whether indulging in gourmet dining, unwinding in stylish lounges, or enjoying access to the ship’s myriad of amenities, the MSC Yacht Club promises an unparalleled level of relaxation and rejuvenation throughout the journey.

Amadeus partners with Navan, propelling global travel management expansion through innovative technology solutions.

Amadeus has strengthened its collaboration with Navan, a rapidly expanding global travel management company (TMC). As a premier global travel technology provider, Amadeus will support Navan in expanding its content offerings, improving customer services, and accelerating its rapid growth.

Navan is integrating a wide array of solutions powered by Amadeus Web Services across its global operations. These API-powered solutions seamlessly integrate Amadeus’ extensive content, including robust airline NDC content, and provide end-to-end workflow capabilities within Navan’s travel management applications.

“Navan is the next generation of user-centric travel management software, and we see Amadeus as an important partner to best support our global operations,” said Fred Stratford, Executive Vice President at Navan Group and CEO of Reed & Mackay. “Our expanded relationship with Amadeus will accelerate our growth, not just in the United States, but worldwide.” 

Navan has solidified its position in the TMC market through the acquisitions of Reed & Mackay, Resia, Comtravo, Atlanta Events, and Tripeur in recent years. With a presence in 19 countries and inventory and travel support in over 100 countries, Navan is now shifting its focus to organic growth.

As a global technology leader in the travel ecosystem, Amadeus is ideally suited to support this goal. Amadeus’ open systems and cloud-enabled technology provide Navan with high performance, security, reliability, and stability, which are essential for sustaining its rapid growth and ongoing global expansion.

Rajiv Rajian, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer, Americas, Travel Unit, Amadeus, said, “There is a great deal of synergy between Amadeus and rapidly growing Navan. We both work to enable human connections by building end-to-end journeys that make the travel experience better. Our extensive end-to-end workflow solutions are designed to help our customers increase efficiency, drive revenue, and deliver an exceptional level of service.  We are pleased to expand our relationship with Navan to support its continued success.” 

Recent data has unveiled the top European cities most favored by TikTok users, with Paris securing the third position. Drawing from statistics provided by Statista, marketing analysts at Upbeat Agency meticulously examined the TikTok view counts for each city within the top ten.

Barcelona emerges as the leading European city on TikTok, boasting an impressive 106.1 billion views. The vibrant Spanish capital’s premier tourist destination, Park Guell, welcomed 4.66 million visitors in 2022. Notably, FC Barcelona, a globally renowned football club, garners significant attention on TikTok, featured in 2.4 million posts bearing its hashtag.

Following closely is London, ranking second with 68.6 billion views. The British capital’s iconic British Museum stood as the most frequented attraction in 2023, drawing 5.8 million visitors. Soho claims the title of London’s most TikTok-worthy locale, boasting 132,100 posts.

Paris secures the third spot with 64.8 billion views. In 2023, the Louvre Museum, Paris’ premier attraction, welcomed 8.9 million visitors and starred in 91,100 TikTok videos.

Istanbul clinches the fourth position with 53.1 billion views. Turkey’s bustling metropolis, the world’s most visited city in 2023, greeted 20.2 million visitors. The illustrious Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, a beloved tourist landmark, is featured in 28,400 TikTok posts.

Madrid claims the fifth spot as one of the most ‘TikTokable’ cities, amassing a whopping 32.6 billion views. Among its famed locales, Gran Via stands out, with a staggering 25,200 TikTok posts featuring this bustling area.

Berlin follows in sixth place, boasting 26.1 billion views. The iconic Brandenburg Gate steals the spotlight on TikTok, gracing the platform with 1,089 posts. Ankara secures the seventh position with 23.0 billion views, prominently featuring Ankara Castle in 115 posts.

In eighth place stands Milan, with 13.6 billion views. The majestic Duomo di Milano cathedral steals hearts on TikTok, appearing in 41,500 posts. Hamburg clinches the penultimate spot with 12.1 billion views. Its Miniatur Wunderland captures imaginations, starring in 3,758 posts.

Bringing up the rear is Manchester, boasting 10.1 billion views. Reverberating with football fervor, the city showcases its iconic stadiums. The Etihad Stadium and Old Trafford take center stage, with Manchester City’s grounds featuring in 21,400 posts and Manchester United’s grounds in a staggering 123,800 posts.

Jordan Bucknell, CEO of Upbeat Agency, commented on the findings:  

“The fact that these are the European cities being tagged in the most TikTok posts pays testament to how vibrant and full of interest and life these cities are. 

“There is plenty of history, beauty and fun to be experienced, which is taken advantage of by influencers and travel bloggers to create engaging content. 

“The use of TikTok to create positive content featuring these cities is great promotion and publicity for the cities by highlighting some of the most popular areas as well as smaller, less tourist-focused areas.” 

Owning a dream vacation home in Greece and securing a Golden Visa with Permanent Residency is about to become pricier for everyone starting August 31, 2024. In September, the Greek government will enact new legislation that will double the minimum investment required for international citizens to acquire real estate in Greece.

Leptos Estates, a leading real estate and property development company specializing in residential, commercial, and holiday properties, including upscale apartments and luxury villas in Greece and Cyprus, is extending an invitation to affluent individuals and investors from India to act promptly and make their property investments in Greece before the regulations change later this year.

In recent years, Greece’s Golden Visa Programme, launched in 2013, has experienced a surge in popularity and demand, prompting the Greek government to reconsider the investment thresholds for real estate and Permanent Residency.

Under the new regulations expected to take effect on August 31, 2024, Greece’s Golden Visa Program will introduce two minimum investment tiers for real estate transactions in the country. In Tier I, encompassing sought-after areas like Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and the islands, the minimum investment is projected to increase to €800,000 from the current €500,000. Meanwhile, in Tier II, covering all other regions of Greece, the entry point will rise to €400,000 from the current €250,000.

“As the deadline approaches, prices are expected to surge, potentially making the dream of owning a Greek home less attainable for Indian investors. We urge high net-worth individuals and investors to grab this unique once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure Permanent Residency in Greece while enjoying the chance to make promising returns on their investment at a minimum cost of an affordable €250,000. Once the new rules come into effect, the cost will double, and it will be a great chance missed. We have some aesthetically and sustainably designed, fully functional apartments and villas across Greece and in regions like Paros Crete, and Santorini that would make great homes for global citizens,” said Sanjay Sachdev, Group Marketing Director, Leptos Estates.

Investors still have the opportunity to apply under the current €250,000 minimum threshold by making a 10% deposit before August 31, 2024, and completing the investment by December 31, 2024.

Owning both a home and obtaining Permanent Residency in one of the world’s oldest civilizations offers numerous advantages. These include visa-free travel within Europe’s Schengen area, substantial returns from Greece’s thriving real estate market, delightful year-round weather, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the charming Mediterranean culture.

The Residency extends to the entire family, including the spouse, children under 21 years old, and the parents of the main applicant and spouse, with the added possibility of applying for citizenship.

Foreign property owners in Greece are not obligated to reside in the country, and residency permits can be obtained within six months. Moreover, owners have the flexibility to rent out their investment property if desired.

Malaysia is rapidly becoming a top choice for Gen Z travelers, thanks to its diverse offerings and vibrant culture. Known for its stunning beaches in Langkawi and Borneo, bustling cities, and scenic highlands like Cameron Highlands, Malaysia offers a unique blend of adventure, luxury, and affordability.

The country’s focus on sustainable tourism, rich biodiversity, and eco-friendly initiatives, such as its seven geoparks and ancient rainforests, attract eco-conscious young travelers. With excellent connectivity, traveler-friendly visa policies, and a thriving food and shopping scene, Malaysia stands out as a dynamic and welcoming destination for the new generation of explorers.

In an exclusive interview at Arabian Travel Market 2024 with Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan, Editor-in-Chief of Travel And Tour World, Datuk Dr. Yasmin Mahmood, Chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia shared her vision for the future of Malaysia’s tourism industry. Emphasizing the sector’s significant contribution to the country’s GDP, Dr. Mahmud outlined strategies to boost tourism and attract international visitors under the banner of “Malaysia Truly Asia.”

Strategic Focus on Diverse Offerings

Datuk Dr. Yasmin Mahmood, Chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia shares to our editor-in-chief also highlighted Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity and natural beauty, positioning the country as a versatile destination for both leisure and business travelers. She emphasized the importance of promoting affordable luxury escapades for families, young couples, and Gen Z travelers. Key attractions include Malaysia’s pristine beaches, such as those in Langkawi and Borneo, as well as its vibrant cities and cool highland retreats like Cameron Highlands.

Post-Pandemic Recovery and Upcoming Initiatives

Following the pandemic, Malaysia is focusing on regaining tourism momentum, aiming for a successful Visit Malaysia Year in 2026. The country is rapidly catching up to pre-pandemic visitor numbers, with significant growth expected this year. Datuk Dr. Yasmin Mahmood, Chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia stressed the importance of working with airlines, airports, and global partners to drive demand and convert it into actual visitation.

Sustainability and Ecotourism

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Malaysia’s tourism strategy. Datuk Dr. Yasmin Mahmood, Chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia underscored the development of ecotourism as a key initiative, highlighting the preservation of natural resources and biodiversity. Malaysia’s seven geoparks, including the Mulu Caves and Danum Valley in Borneo, offer unique attractions for eco-conscious travelers. The focus on sustainability extends to promoting indigenous cultures and practices that harmonize with nature.

Enhanced Connectivity and Visa Policies

Improving connectivity is crucial for tourism growth. Malaysia is enhancing direct flights through partnerships with local and international airlines, including a recent collaboration with Emirates Air. Additionally, Malaysia‘s visa policies are among the most traveler-friendly, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival options for many countries, including China and India.

MICE Industry and Medical Tourism

Malaysia is also strengthening its position in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry, offering financial assistance and logistical support for events. The country is becoming a preferred destination for medical tourism, known for its high standards of healthcare and Muslim-friendly facilities.

The Datuk Dr. Yasmin Mahmood, Chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia comprehensive vision aims to make Malaysia a top global destination by leveraging its diverse attractions, strategic partnerships, and commitment to sustainability.

This summer, brace for Uber thrilling launch of a revolutionary shuttle service, set to transform airport rides with excitement.

This summer, Uber is set to introduce its Uber Shuttle service in the United States, offering convenient transportation to events and airports, the company announced at a recent event in New York City.

Currently available in Egypt and India, the Uber Shuttle service allows users to reserve a seat on a local shuttle heading to the same destination as other riders, all for a fraction of the price of an UberX. This innovative service aims to provide a more affordable ride option for those looking to get to concerts, sporting events, and airports.

Affordable and Convenient Airport Shuttles

Although Uber has not yet disclosed which airports will have the shuttle service available, the company is actively working with airport partners and local officials across the U.S. and beyond. Their goal is to bring a convenient and affordable airport shuttle service to riders, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Expanding Event Transportation Options

Uber Shuttle is also set to become the official rideshare partner of select Live Nation amphitheaters, bringing the service to various venues nationwide. In addition, Uber is partnering with Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, home to the Miami Dolphins, Formula One Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix, and premier concerts and events. This partnership aims to make it easier for attendees to reach these high-profile events without the hassle of finding parking or dealing with traffic.

Easy Booking and Transparent Pricing

When the service becomes available, customers will see a ‘Shuttle’ option in the Uber app. Riders can book up to five seats from seven days in advance to five minutes before the scheduled departure. Payments and shuttle tracking will be available within 25 minutes of departure, all managed through the Uber app. Riders will know their fare upfront, unaffected by surge pricing, ensuring cost transparency and predictability.

Upon arrival, riders will have their QR-code ticket validated by the driver. They can also rate and tip their drivers through the app, just as with other Uber rides.

Future Prospects for Uber Shuttle

Uber sees significant potential for Uber Shuttle to be included in its Uber for Business offerings. Since 2021, the company has been operating shuttle routes for its employees in the Mission Bay office in San Francisco, as well as for employees in Seattle and Bangalore, India. Uber has also started offering shuttle services to Uber for Business clients in some international markets and foresees definite potential to expand this service to more U4B clients in the U.S.

As Uber Shuttle prepares to launch this summer, it promises to offer an affordable, convenient, and efficient transportation option for a wide range of users, enhancing their travel and event-going experiences.