Presented by Brand USA

Episode Notes

Apple unveiled new travel-related features for several of its products on Monday at the 2024 Apple Worldwide Developers Conference. Travel Technology Reporter Justin Dawes provides details about Apple’s updates. 

Dawes notes the Apple Watch will have a new translation app, live update features for flights and Uber, and a setting to alert users before it rains. In addition, Siri is getting a connection to OpenAI, which will enable users to ask Siri anything they can ask ChatGPT, including trip planning info for free. And travelers will be able to use Apple Vision Pro virtual reality headsets on not just planes — but trains as well. 

Next, InterContinental Hotels Group would like its property mix to include more premium, lifestyle and luxury brands. However, IHG is downplaying its plans due to its investors’ preference for mid-market and extended-stay brands, reports Senior Hospitality Editor Sean O’Neill. 

Although O’Neill notes moving upmarket is tantalizing for several reasons, IHG is responding to the demand it sees from hotel owners and investors. In addition, IHG’s Americas CEO Jolyon Bulley said that some owners who want to do deals are concerned about the state of the lending environment. O’Neill adds that conversions are more appealing to some investors because of obstacles in the market. 

Finally, Mallorca has seen massive protests over mass tourism that many residents believe has helped make housing unaffordable, among other problems. Travel Experiences Reporter Jesse Chase-Lubitz delves into the widespread anger on the island.

Protests have erupted even in towns far from Mallorca’s most popular beaches, with Chase-Lubitz citing one small town without tourist attractions that’s been swarmed by tourists seeking lodging. One university professor and Mallorca native said the tourism boom has made it hard for residents to find affordable housing. The island’s capital city Palma de Mallorca and four other cities have seen residential property prices jump more than 10% this year. 

Chase-Lubitz adds several other incidents have fueled widespread Mallorcan anger about tourism, including a fight involving a group of young British men earlier this month. 

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Producer/Presenter: Jose Marmolejos