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August 19, 2025

Check-In with Suzanne


The Power of Pause in Our Fast-Paced Business Travel Industry

As we move through the coming months of 2025, the pace of business travel in our now-forecasted $1.57 trillion sector shows strong signs ahead. For many—especially those across the Northern Hemisphere—the past weeks have offered a welcome pause for summer breaks, time off and vacationing. But with September approaching, we can expect the tempo to pick up again as professionals gear up for conferences, client meetings, strategic planning and more.

As companies and individuals focus on achieving their ambitious annual goals, it’s more important than ever to recognize the value of taking a break. After our successful Convention in Denver, the GBTA team took time off to recharge—a reminder that wellness and balance are not luxuries, but necessities.

And when it comes to today’s business travelers, they are seeking more than just efficiency. They want fulfillment, flexibility, and time to recharge. That’s where blended travel—or “bleisure”—also comes in. It’s not just a perk; it’s a strategic choice that supports wellness, enhances productivity, and fosters resilience. This shift is reflected in our GBTA BTI global business traveler survey, where 67% of respondents reported blending work and leisure travel as often or more than they did several years ago. Additionally, longer trips that allow for personal time are replacing the traditional one-day sprint, with 40% of travelers now preferring three-to-five-day journeys.

As we enter a busy season, let’s commit to prioritizing wellness. Whether it’s a quiet moment between flights or a weekend extension after a work trip, these pauses fuel creativity and long-term success.

At GBTA, we believe purposeful travel includes time to disconnect. And who better to lead by example than our industry—travel smarter, rest well, and return stronger.

Suzanne

 
AVIATION

Air Canada Strike Over, With Tentative Deal Reached, Airline and Union Say (CBC)

Dubai Airport Launches First AI Passenger Corridor in the World (AVIATION A2Z)

Taiwan’s STARLUX Partners with American Airlines (ASIAN AVIATION)

Making Progress: How Boeing's Improved Production Rates Impact the Company's H2 2025 Outlook (SIMPLE FLYING)

SUSTAINABILITY

Radisson Hotel Group Debuts Second Net-Zero Property in Oslo (BTN EUROPE)

HOSPITALITY

U.S. Hotels Brace for a Bumpy Q3 — But Bet Big on a Q4 Rebound (HOSPITALITY TODAY)

Some Travel Advisors Are Using AI to Help Plan Trips and Boost Business — and They're Not Afraid They'll Be Replaced (BUSINESS INSIDER)

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OTHER SECTORS

India-Based OTA Yatra Launches AI Assistant DIYA (PHOCUSWIRE)

Industry Spotlight


GBTA Ladders
GBTA Ladders Season 12
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Apply before September 26

🎤"Ladders has had such an enormous impact on my ability to grow my career, my professional network, and knowledge of the business travel industry." - Grace Morrisey, Director Global Travel & Expense at General Atlantic.

Ready to build your own success story? GBTA Ladders Season 12 applications are now open for mentees, alumni advisors, and committee members. Learn more and apply today!

 
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Resources


Crisis24 Intelligence Brief

China and Vietnam - TD 17W tracking northward across far northeastern Vietnam early Aug. 19. Severe weather likely through Aug. 20.

Myanmar - Significant clashes are likely to continue in Myanmar ahead of elections Dec. 28.

United States - Amtrak rail disruptions likely along US East Coast train routes through at least mid-August after Aug. 17 derailment.

Uruguay - Authorities to close Montevideo Carrasco International Airport, Uruguay, Aug, 19-21 for scheduled runway maintenance. Reconfirm flights.  

More Information

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✈️ Travel Risk Management 101: Health & Security Travel Risks

Business travel brings opportunity - but also risk. From health emergencies to political unrest, are your travelers truly prepared? Join us Friday, August 29 for a practical session where our expert panel: Elvin Lee, Barry LIN, Safak Celik, Pradeep Kumar Jayaprakash and Mamatha Basavaraju will share...

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