American Airlines is making a bold investment in the future of travel at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) by expanding its Admirals Club® lounge to provide passengers with a luxury experience that matches the airline’s growing presence in the region. Spanning over 10,000 square feet, the new lounge will replace the existing space in Concourse L and offer travellers a more comfortable, spacious environment to relax, work, or refresh during their airport journey. The upgrade is part of American Airlines’ ongoing commitment to improving customer experiences in Chicago, a major hub for the airline.
According to Heather Garboden, American’s Chief Customer Officer, the new Admirals Club will offer a host of premium amenities including floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the runway, distinct zones for relaxation and work, and an overall design inspired by the vibrant community and culture of Chicago. Garboden emphasized that the investment is aimed at offering travelers more space, better services, and a streamlined, luxurious experience from start to finish.
American Airlines is deepening its ties with Chicago, where it has recently seen a surge in traffic, with more than 500 daily departures and a growing network serving over 180 destinations worldwide. The new lounge is set to accommodate the increased number of passengers who pass through O’Hare each day, offering both relaxed spaces and private meeting areas for business travelers.
More Space, More Amenities: The New Admirals Club Lounge Experience
Set to open in 2026, the new Admirals Club will feature multiple “neighborhoods”, each designed to cater to the varying needs of travelers. Whether guests are looking for a quiet space to work, a comfortable lounge area to unwind, or a private zone for meetings, the lounge will provide it all. The lounge will also boast upgraded amenities, such as a premium buffet, additional seating, and more charging stations for electronic devices, creating a convenient environment for both business and leisure travelers.
Additionally, passengers can expect local design elements that celebrate the culture of Chicago. The lounge’s aesthetic will feature artworks and decor inspired by the city’s iconic architecture, its vibrant arts scene, and its unique architectural features. It will also boast natural lighting and open spaces, making it a welcoming environment for visitors.
American’s efforts to enhance the customer experience at O’Hare are part of the airline’s broader strategy to expand premium travel offerings across its network. The new lounge will be one of the largest Admirals Clubs in the country, serving first‑class passengers, business class passengers, and loyalty members who access the lounge through annual membership plans or credit card benefits like the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®.
A Nod to Sustainable Travel and Convenience
The new Admirals Club lounge will also reflect American Airlines’ commitment to sustainable travel. Several environmentally friendly features are being incorporated into the lounge design, including energy‑efficient lighting, sustainable materials, and water-saving technologies. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the growing trend among airlines and airports to minimize their carbon footprint while still providing top‑notch services to passengers. American’s ongoing focus on eco‑friendly practices sets the stage for more sustainable initiatives in the travel sector in 2026 and beyond.
A Growing Hub: More Travel Opportunities in 2026
With the ongoing construction of the new lounge, American Airlines is also working to expand its network at O’Hare. This year, the airline will operate more than 500 peak daily departures, adding new routes to destinations like Kahului, Hawaii (OGG) and Allentown, Pennsylvania (ABE). These new services will strengthen American’s Chicago hub, providing travelers with more direct options and higher-quality flight experiences, including Flagship® Business lie-flat seats on long‑haul routes.
O’Hare is positioned to remain one of America’s busiest airports, and American Airlines is increasing its footprint there in response to the growing demand for both domestic and international travel. Passengers flying from O’Hare will also have access to Flagship® lounges in addition to the expanded Admirals Club, ensuring that travelers experience premium amenities at every stage of their journey.
New Lounges, New Connections: A Major Shift for Airport Travel
The upgrade in the Admirals Club also marks a broader trend of premium lounge expansions across U.S. airports. Increased airport capacity, better amenities, and higher‑quality service are expected to become more prevalent as airlines compete to attract business travellers, who are increasingly willing to pay for the extra comfort of lounges and private spaces. American Airlines’ move to expand its lounge offerings reflects its focus on customer retention and increasing its market share in a post‑pandemic world where air travel is steadily rebounding.
What to Expect for Travelers in 2026 and Beyond
As premium travel demand continues to rise in 2026, the new Admirals Club will offer an enhanced experience for passengers, positioning O’Hare International Airport as a central hub for luxury travel. By offering more convenience, comfort, and personalization, American Airlines is showing its commitment to providing superior experiences that cater to both business and leisure travelers.
The expanded lounge is just one piece of American’s broader plan to offer more seamless travel experiences, higher service standards, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction. As travel demand continues to grow in 2026, American Airlines’ investment in its Chicago hub and premium lounges signals an exciting future for passengers who value comfort, convenience, and quality at every stage of their journey.
Riviera Travel, one of Europe’s premier river cruise operators, is poised for continued success in 2026, solidifying its reputation as a leader in luxury, culturally immersive travel experiences. Specializing in intimate river cruises along some of the most iconic rivers in Europe, including the Danube, Rhine, and Seine, Riviera Travel’s unique offering of personalized service, cutting-edge ships, and exclusive itineraries has made it the cruise line of choice for travelers seeking a refined and enriching experience.
With its luxurious boutique-style riverboats and focus on cultural exploration, Riviera Travel allows guests to discover some of Europe’s most beloved cities, such as Paris, Vienna, and Budapest, with unrivaled attention to detail and an emphasis on authentic local experiences. The company’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of service, while continuously evolving and innovating to meet the needs of the modern traveler, has contributed to its remarkable rise in popularity over the years.
In this comprehensive press release, we will explore why Riviera Travel is considered one of the best in the world, examining the factors that have contributed to its success, the innovations that set it apart from its competitors, and the company’s market position as it looks to expand its footprint in 2026. Riviera Travel’s unwavering focus on luxury, personalized service, and cultural immersion ensures it will remain a dominant player in the European river cruise market.
Riviera Travel’s Key Factors to Success
Riviera Travel’s sustained success and reputation as one of the world’s best cruise lines can be attributed to several key factors that have helped it distinguish itself from other cruise operators, particularly in the premium, river cruise market. These factors include a commitment to intimate, boutique-style riverboats, a strong focus on cultural immersion, an emphasis on personalization, and meticulous attention to detail. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors:
1. Intimate, Boutique Ships
One of the key differentiators for Riviera Travel is the size and design of its ships. Unlike many other cruise lines that operate large vessels accommodating thousands of passengers, Riviera Travel focuses on smaller ships that cater to 150-200 guests. This intimate ship size allows for more personalized service and provides guests with a quieter, more serene cruise experience. The smaller size also allows for better access to destinations that are difficult to reach with larger ships, meaning Riviera Travel guests can enjoy an exclusive, less crowded experience in some of Europe’s most iconic cities.
This intimacy allows guests to feel more like VIPs, rather than just another number on a massive ship. Riviera Travel’s personalized service—from the onboard crew to the tailor-made excursions—ensures that every guest’s journey is as special as the destinations they visit.
2. Cultural Immersion
At the heart of Riviera Travel’s philosophy is the desire to immerse travelers in the culture, history, and art of the cities they visit. Riviera Travel excels in offering curated shore excursions that go beyond typical sightseeing, allowing guests to engage deeply with local cultures. Whether it’s a private tour of Vienna’s grand palaces, a wine-tasting session in Bordeaux, or an exploration of Budapest’s vibrant neighborhoods, Riviera Travel’s excursions are designed to provide meaningful, authentic experiences that enrich the journey.
The company’s cultural immersion efforts are evident in its diverse and customizable itineraries, which offer everything from classical music performances in Vienna to guided tours of art galleries and UNESCO World Heritage sites. For travelers looking to connect with local cultures and history, Riviera Travel’s excursions are an unparalleled highlight.
3. Exclusivity and Personalization
Riviera Travel prides itself on offering exclusive, personalized experiences that cater to the unique interests and preferences of each guest. The company offers bespoke services, whether that’s arranging private excursions, special dining experiences, or exclusive events tailored to guests’ specific interests. Whether it’s exploring a city’s culinary scene, enjoying a private wine-tasting session, or receiving personalized recommendations for local attractions, Riviera Travel ensures that each guest’s experience is uniquely crafted to their desires.
This emphasis on personalization extends to the onboard experience, with attentive staff members ensuring that every aspect of the guest’s journey, from accommodations to dining, exceeds expectations.
4. Attention to Detail
Riviera Travel’s success is also rooted in its unparalleled attention to detail. From the luxurious cabin interiors to the high-end dining options, every aspect of the cruise experience has been meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort and convenience. Riviera Travel’s ships feature spacious cabins with premium amenities, panoramic lounges, elegant dining rooms, and wellness centers that allow guests to relax and recharge in style.
Additionally, the company’s focus on providing top-tier service, including gourmet meals prepared with the freshest local ingredients, ensures that guests enjoy every moment of their journey.
The Rise of Riviera Travel’s Success in 2026
As 2026 approaches, Riviera Travel is experiencing a period of rapid growth, driven by its strategic investments in new ships, expanded itineraries, and enhanced guest experiences. The company has been expanding its range of river cruise offerings, adding new destinations and excursions designed to appeal to the growing demand for more immersive, cultural cruises.
Riviera Travel’s commitment to excellence in every aspect of the guest experience has helped it build a loyal customer base, with many travelers returning year after year for the exclusive, luxury experiences the company offers. The growing interest in cultural exploration and the demand for more personalized travel experiences put Riviera Travel in a prime position to meet the increasing desire for high-end river cruising.
How Riviera Travel Surpasses Competitors: Innovative Ships and Experiences
Riviera Travel consistently stays ahead of its competitors by focusing on both ship design and guest experience innovation. The company’s fleet of riverboats features the latest in eco-friendly technologies, ensuring that it remains a responsible choice for travelers concerned about sustainability. From state-of-the-art cabins to spacious public areas designed for relaxation and socialization, Riviera Travel’s ships combine modern luxury with a dedication to comfort and elegance.
Onshore, the company differentiates itself through exclusive shore excursions that allow guests to explore destinations in greater depth. Private tours, customized itineraries, and the option for unique experiences like cooking classes, private concerts, or cultural workshops are all part of Riviera Travel’s competitive advantage.
Surpassing the Competition: Riviera Travel vs. Carnival, MSC, Princess, and Holland America
While industry giants like Carnival, MSC, Princess, and Holland America dominate the ocean cruise market, Riviera Travel has carved out a niche in the premium, luxury river cruise market. Unlike these mass-market cruise lines, which operate large ships catering to thousands of passengers, Riviera Travel focuses on delivering personalized, intimate river cruise experiences. The smaller, more elegant ships provide a level of luxury and service that sets Riviera Travel apart from its competitors, and the company’s unique itineraries further solidify its place as a premium travel operator.
Riviera Travel is dedicated to offering experiences that feel far more exclusive, with fewer passengers, ensuring that guests have more time to engage with the destinations they visit. This focus on exclusivity and cultural immersion ensures that Riviera Travel attracts affluent travelers who prefer a more personalized, authentic travel experience.
Comparison Table: Passenger Capacity (2026)
Cruise Line
Passenger Capacity (2026)
Fleet Size (2026)
Focus
Riviera Travel
150-200 per ship
12 ships
Luxury river cruises in Europe
Carnival Cruise Line
2,000-5,000+
25+ ships
Mass-market ocean cruises
MSC Cruises
1,500-4,000
19 ships
Ocean cruises with a focus on luxury and family travel
Princess Cruises
1,500-3,500
18 ships
Luxury ocean cruises
Holland America Line
1,400-2,600
10+ ships
Premium ocean cruises
The Innovation & Design Advantage
Riviera Travel continues to stay ahead of the curve by innovating both in its ship designs and in its approach to guest experiences. The company’s ships feature state-of-the-art amenities, including eco-friendly technology, modern interiors, and high-end comfort. Spacious lounges, panoramic decks, and luxury dining options allow guests to relax in style, while the environmentally conscious design ensures that Riviera Travel remains a responsible choice for travelers.
The company’s dedication to continuously refining its ships to create the ultimate cruise experience has set a new standard in the luxury river cruise market.
2026 Flagship Launches: New Standards Set by Riviera Travel
In 2026, Riviera Travel is set to unveil its latest flagship river cruise ships, which will feature a new level of luxury and sophistication. These ships will offer larger suites, enhanced facilities, and greater comfort for guests, with an emphasis on sustainability and cutting-edge design. Riviera Travel’s commitment to innovation is evident in the new ships, which will redefine what luxury river cruising can offer.
The flagship launches will not only set new standards in design and luxury but will also set a new benchmark for sustainability in the river cruise industry, ensuring that Riviera Travel remains at the forefront of eco-conscious cruising.
Why 2026 is Riviera Travel’s Breakout Year
2026 represents a breakout year for Riviera Travel, with significant growth and exciting new developments on the horizon. The company’s expanding fleet, flagship launches, and increasing demand for intimate, luxurious river cruising position it to become a dominant player in the premium cruise market. Riviera Travel is well-equipped to meet the demands of a growing market of travelers seeking exclusive, cultural experiences in Europe, ensuring that 2026 will be a year of continued success.
Riviera Travel’s Market Position Against Competitors
Riviera Travel has established a strong market position as a leader in luxury river cruising. With a growing fleet, strong brand recognition, and a loyal customer base, the company is well-positioned to continue to expand its market share. Its focus on personalization, cultural immersion, and luxury sets it apart from mass-market operators and allows it to dominate the niche river cruise market.
As demand for more exclusive, intimate travel experiences increases, Riviera Travel’s position in the market is only set to strengthen.
Innovation, Guest Experience & Value: What Sets Riviera Travel Apart
What truly sets Riviera Travel apart is its unwavering commitment to innovation, guest experience, and value. By offering unique, high-quality travel experiences at competitive prices, the company ensures that guests receive exceptional value for their investment. The luxurious accommodations, curated shore excursions, and bespoke service provide guests with an experience unlike any other.
Financial Outlook & Future Growth Plans
Riviera Travel’s financial outlook remains positive, with strong growth projected in the coming years. The expansion of the fleet, combined with growing demand for cultural river cruises, positions the company to capitalize on future opportunities. Riviera Travel’s plans for future growth include expanding its itineraries, launching new ships, and further solidifying its position as the leader in luxury river cruises.
Riviera Travel’s Unstoppable Dominance in 2026
Riviera Travel’s continued focus on excellence, luxury, and innovation positions it as the dominant player in the river cruise industry. The company’s ability to offer intimate, cultural experiences, personalized service, and cutting-edge ships ensures its place as the leader in luxury river cruising for years to come. As demand for exclusive, immersive travel experiences continues to rise, Riviera Travel’s market position will only grow stronger, making it an unstoppable force in the cruise industry.
The world of luxury travel was forever transformed during the monumental Internova PLUS event held at the iconic Gleneagles estate in the Scottish Highlands from January 27-30, 2026. This event marked Internova’s first international venue, a bold step in its global expansion, and set the stage for a new era in the US tourism sector. Bringing together top travel advisors and luxury partners, Internova PLUS unleashed the power of collaboration, innovation, and celebration within the luxury travel world, all while bolstering US tourism growth globally.
More than 250 luxury travel advisors from across the United States, UK, Europe, and the Americas came together at this invitation-only event. These advisors, selected from over 100,000 global travel professionals, represent the elite 0.1% of advisors within Internova. Their collective luxury sales? A staggering $3.9 million per advisor annually. If that doesn’t prove how luxury travel is booming in the US, then the numbers definitely will.
From Gleneagles to Global Leadership: How Internova PLUS is Redefining the Future of US Tourism
Internova’s CEO J.D. O’Hara didn’t mince words when he addressed the crowd: “Internova operates at tremendous scale, but our strength is our ability to connect the right advisors and partners in meaningful ways.” And that’s exactly what Internova PLUS 2026 did, connecting the best advisors with luxury hotel partners from across the globe, including prominent players from the US tourism sector.
Held in Gleneagles, the stunning luxury resort in the heart of Scotland’s Highlands, this gathering served as the first international milestone in Internova PLUS’s journey. The event is designed to strengthen connections and highlight luxury travel partnerships, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the US travel market.
The US tourism sector has faced many challenges, but events like Internova PLUS are proving that collaboration and innovation are the future. At this high-profile gathering, attendees didn’t just mingle—they shaped the future of luxury travel, with significant US partners leading the charge.
Internova’s Global Reach: How the US Travel Sector is Leading the Way at Internova PLUS
Did you know that Internova generates $25 billion in annual travel sales? That’s a staggering figure! This massive scale brings immense global reach, not just to US tourism but to the entire luxury travel sector worldwide. The Internova PLUS event united some of the world’s leading travel advisors and luxury travel brands, setting the stage for unprecedented growth in US tourism.
With Internova PLUS now set in Scotland, this expansion offers incredible opportunities for US advisors to tap into global markets and redefine their strategies. It’s no wonder that luxury travel to and from the US has been booming with industry leaders like Global Travel Collection, ALTOUR, and Travel Leaders Network all in attendance.
The event showed how US tourism can benefit from strategic global partnerships, where luxury hotels and tourism providers from America and beyond can collaborate. For the US tourism sector, this isn’t just about networking; it’s about creating dynamic and sustainable growth for years to come.
Why Gleneagles in Scotland Became the Epicenter for US Travel Innovation at Internova PLUS
Why Scotland? Gleneagles, nestled in the scenic Scottish Highlands, provided the perfect backdrop for Internova PLUS 2026. This iconic venue, renowned for its luxurious golf courses, stunning landscape, and first-class facilities, set the stage for a highly exclusive gathering of top travel advisors and global luxury brands.
This prestigious gathering drew a select group of 250 travel professionals from around the world, especially from the US tourism market, to Scotland. These top-tier individuals were selected from an incredible pool of more than 100,000 travel advisors from Internova’s global network.
Why did this event matter to US tourism? Because it didn’t just stay within the US borders—it opened up a massive global platform for US travel advisors to partner with international luxury brands and experience unparalleled networking opportunities. The event’s ability to foster new business collaborations marks a key moment for US tourism expansion into international luxury markets.
Internova’s PLUS PLUS Program: Exclusive New Engagement for US Advisors and Partners to Drive Tourism Growth
In a bold move to further engage attendees, Internova PLUS introduced a groundbreaking program, dubbed “PLUS PLUS”. This unique initiative aims to keep the momentum going long after the event concludes. It’s an exclusive, year-long, application-based program designed to facilitate deeper collaboration between the US tourism sector and international luxury travel partners.
By handpicking participants who attended Internova PLUS, the program ensures that the US travel market stays at the forefront of luxury tourism innovation. The PLUS PLUS community encourages year-round engagement and provides advisors and partners with continuous networking opportunities that extend far beyond the event’s official end. The goal? To create unlimited potential for all US tourism professionals involved.
The numbers speak for themselves: after attending Internova PLUS, hotel partners saw a 240% increase in business production. When you combine that with the incredible potential of PLUS PLUS, you get a new level of growth and success for the US tourism market.
Internova PLUS 2027: The US Tourism Sector Eyes Next Year’s Global Gathering in Barcelona
Looking ahead, Internova PLUS 2027 is already on the horizon. Taking place January 26-29, 2027, at the Hotel Arts Barcelona, this next edition promises to expand Internova PLUS’s reach even further into the global luxury travel scene. Hotel Arts, a Ritz-Carlton property, will offer the perfect venue to showcase the latest innovations in the US tourism sector and beyond.
With Barcelona’s unparalleled charm and luxury accommodations, Internova PLUS 2027 will provide another powerful platform for US travel advisors to build stronger partnerships and explore new opportunities within the luxury tourism sector. The US tourism market is set to continue its rapid growth, fueled by Internova’s global partnerships and forward-thinking approach.
Conclusion: Internova PLUS Rewrites the Future of US Travel at Gleneagles and Beyond
Internova PLUS at Gleneagles has proven that US tourism is poised to lead the future of global luxury travel. The event marked a defining moment, showcasing the power of collaboration and innovation. Luxury travel providers and advisors from the US tourism sector now have an unprecedented opportunity to expand their global influence, redefine their business models, and drive future growth.
As Internova PLUS continues its global expansion, the US tourism sector will undoubtedly remain at the center of this transformation. Keep an eye on the future of luxury travel—and the US tourism sector—because what’s coming next is set to shake things up in the most spectacular way.
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns, a premier waterfront luxury hotel in the heart of Tropical North Queensland, has introduced the Infrasys POS (point-of-sale) system, a cutting-edge cloud-based technology which enables better operational efficiency and personalised services for guests. The hotel has implemented Shiji’s Infrasys POS system to improve its service operations while maintaining the high standards which guests anticipate from this legendary hotel.
Technology Elevates Luxury Service in Cairns
Nestled between the tranquil waters of Trinity Inlet, the Coral Sea, and the bustling Cairns Esplanade, Shangri-La The Marina offers breathtaking views of the Marlin Marina and the surrounding lush, rainforest-clad mountains. Positioned as the gateway to one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef, the hotel caters to both leisure and adventure tourists. In a location where breathtaking landscapes meet world-class hospitality, the adoption of Shiji’s Infrasys POS ensures the hotel remains at the forefront of luxury hospitality, offering guests a more personalised and efficient experience.
The Power of Shiji’s Cloud-Based Technology
The Infrasys POS system has been integrated into the hotel’s operations to enhance several facets of the guest experience. The cloud-based system streamlines ordering and service delivery, allowing staff to communicate and process orders faster, reducing wait times. This level of operational efficiency, paired with the ability to deliver real-time menu and pricing updates across all dining and beverage outlets, is particularly important for maintaining the consistency that guests expect when staying at a five-star establishment.
The system also supports mobility for the hotel’s service teams, empowering them to deliver faster service with more mobility, enhancing their ability to serve guests across a variety of locations, from The Backyard Restaurant to the poolside venues and in-room dining services.
In addition to improving efficiency, the Infrasys POS enhances the personalized experience for each guest. With centralized reporting, staff can seamlessly track guest preferences and tailor experiences according to their needs. Whether guests are enjoying a waterfront meal at The Backyard Restaurant, a drink at the pool, or private in-room dining, the system ensures that each aspect of their stay is connected and streamlined.
Golden Whitehead, the General Manager at Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns, shares that the Infrasys POS system has allowed the team to focus on providing genuine hospitality. The system’s integration enables a more cohesive operation across all departments, so staff can devote more time to the important task of making guests feel at home, offering the exceptional service that the hotel is known for.
Enhancing the Guest Experience with Local Flavour
With Infrasys POS, the hotel’s signature restaurant, The Backyard Restaurant, is able to provide world-class dining while seamlessly capturing the essence of Tropical North Queensland’s vibrant cuisine. The restaurant’s location, with its stunning views of the marina and mountains, enhances the overall guest experience, providing guests with a relaxing space to unwind after an adventure-filled day in the region. Whether overlooking the marina, the mountains, or Cairns’ city skyline, guests can enjoy local flavours paired with the unmatched natural beauty of the area.
Shangri-La The Marina also offers access to unique dining experiences, ideal for casual gatherings, sunset drinks, or more formal events. The integration of Shiji’s Infrasys POS system contributes to these experiences, creating a connected and efficient environment where service can be both quick and personalized.
Looking to the Future: A Seamless Guest Experience
The Shiji POS system is a part of the hotel’s broader strategy to reimagine luxury hospitality through the use of advanced technology. As the travel and tourism industry continues to evolve, staying at the cutting edge of service delivery is paramount. With cloud-based POS technology, Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns ensures that guests receive the same level of exceptional service, regardless of where they are in the hotel.
As more guests seek seamless, personalised experiences, the hotel remains committed to enhancing every aspect of the guest journey, ensuring that service delivery is fast, accurate, and in line with the hotel’s luxury standards. This partnership with Shiji helps the hotel cater to the evolving needs of its guests while maintaining its status as a premier destination in Cairns.
A New Standard in Hospitality Service
The Shangri-La The Marina hotel in Cairns, Australia, has established a new standard for luxury hospitality through its implementation of Shiji’s Infrasys POS system. The advanced technology system enables hotels to achieve operational excellence while providing visitors with their best possible experience of the natural environment and adventurous activities available in the Cairns region. The commitment of Shangri-La Cairns to innovative solutions will secure its status as one of Australia’s top waterfront hotels.
Luxury travel demand is proving resilient in 2026, even as rising financial caution reshapes spending across much of the tourism sector. While affluent travellers continue to prioritise premium experiences, mid-range travel segments are increasingly under […]
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