Travel stories - Page 8

In 2025, hotel bookings shift as travellers favour value and shorter stays, with OTAs like Expedia and Trip.com seeing strong growth amid rising price sensitivity.

Visa has expanded its Intelligent Commerce framework in Asia Pacific, introducing new AI-driven payment security protocols for agentic commerce starting early 2026.

Amid budget concerns, 61% of Aussie shoppers are turning to AI assistants to manage holiday gift buying and reduce spending stress this festive season.

Australia's AI growth is threatened by soaring data centre energy use, risking grid strain and emissions targets unless smarter networks are adopted.

BLUETTI kicks off Black Friday deals featuring new Elite 10 power station and B500K battery with up to 58% off from A$229 to A$2,899.

The Zwift Ride smart bike offers an immersive cycling experience with virtual racing and training for NZD $2,700 plus a $40 monthly subscription.

Murdoch University and DXC Technology launch AI internship for WA undergraduates to gain practical skills and enhance job readiness in key local industries.

The Sydney Opera House is Australia's most searched attraction as Aussies embrace daytrips and regional getaways, favouring local travel over international holidays.

Artificial intelligence is transforming travel and expense management, helping businesses cut costs, reduce admin, and improve financial decisions seamlessly.

Adobe launches Brand Concierge, an AI platform to centralise creative assets and deliver personalised, brand-compliant content across customer journeys.

New Zealand's LoungePair expands airport lounge access with partners Freely, Australian Frequent Flyer, and Dragonpass, covering 1,400+ lounges across Asia-Pacific.

Portable, rugged and high-capacity Western Digital drives are being pitched as practical Christmas gifts for consumers, creators and gamers.

Australian outbound business travel grew 12.4% in H1 2025, boosting demand for robust expense controls amid rising global engagement and steady airfare costs.

Dematic's RTS 120 AGV automates high-bay warehouse tasks up to 10m high, fitting existing sites without major infrastructure changes, enhancing safety and efficiency.

Despite cost-of-living pressures, 45% of Australians want more art at home, with Samsung driving demand through its popular Art TV range and Art Store.

The Espresso 15 Pro is a premium 15.6-inch portable 4K monitor with vibrant colours, high brightness and a sturdy aerospace-grade aluminium design.

NRMA Insurance secures exclusive advertising at Sydney and Adelaide airports through JCDecaux deal, reaching over 50 million passengers yearly.

Australian singer and environmental advocate Cody Simpson has been named ambassador for the Zeekr 7X all-electric luxury SUV in Australia.

Geraldton Fishermen's Co-operative partners with Microlise to enhance supply chain efficiency and safety using AI in transporting premium Western Rock Lobster.

Most Australians plan to cut festive spending in 2025, focusing mainly on gifts and food, as economic caution shapes their holiday priorities.