Looking to move groups through France this week? Not so fast—air traffic controllers are on strike, grounding hundreds of flights and causing ripple delays across Europe. Want to know what travelers say they prioritize versus what they actually book when it comes to sustainability? Trip.com’s latest report breaks that down. Thinking of planning an incentive trip to the Mediterranean offseason? Windstar Cruises just announced a sleek new yacht sailing winter itineraries starting in late 2026.
As always, Smart Travel is here to bring you the latest updates shaping the way we move, meet and plan.
French Air Traffic Control Strike Causes Widespread Flight Disruptions
Planners with events in or near France this week should brace for delays. French air traffic controllers began a nationwide strike on July 3, citing outdated equipment and staffing shortages. The walkout has disrupted operations at major hubs, including Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Orly, Nice, Lyon and Marseille, with the impact expected to continue into Friday, July 4.
According to Reuters, France’s civil aviation authority (DGAC) has asked airlines to cut flights, resulting in at least 525 cancellations and over 600 delays by early Thursday afternoon. Ryanair alone canceled 170 flights, affecting more than 30,000 passengers.
“Despite these preventative measures, disturbances and significant delays are to be expected at all French airports,” DGAC warned, encouraging travelers to rebook if possible.
For meeting professionals with attendees flying into France or connecting through its airspace, this strike could create ripple effects across Europe. Long-haul flights, especially those operated by Air France, appear less affected for now, but regional travel remains unpredictable.
Trip.com Reveals the Reality of Sustainable Travel Preferences
Trip.com Group’s 2024 report, based on a global survey of nearly 10,000 travelers across key markets, highlights both growing interest and persistent gaps in sustainable travel:
- High awareness, modest commitment: While over 90% of respondents say sustainability matters, only around 60% have actually booked eco-friendly options.
- Cost still a barrier: A majority are unwilling to pay more than 5% extra for greener choices, showing price remains a primary hurdle.
- Demand for transparency: Over 70% expect clear sustainability labels on travel bookings, suggesting travelers want both responsibility and clarity.
- Regional nuances matter: European travelers are often driven by environmental concerns, while Asia-Pacific respondents focus more on community and cultural impact.
Sustainability is no longer a “nice-to-have”—it’s expected. To turn intention into action, event organizers should emphasize visible green elements, such as promoting low-carbon transport, clearly labeling eco-friendly accommodations and offering meaningful incentives like carbon offsets or loyalty bonus points.
Smart Travel tip: Work with DMCs and venues that offer transparent sustainability credentials and consider showcasing your event’s green initiatives in your marketing and attendee materials.
Windstar to Debut New Yacht, Star Explorer, in the Mediterranean Winter 2026
Windstar Cruises is setting sail for a new season of off-season Mediterranean magic with the debut of Star Explorer, a 224-guest yacht launching December 28, 2026. The new vessel joins Windstar’s Star Class fleet and will offer immersive itineraries designed to highlight Europe’s quieter, cooler months, with overnight stays in Florence, Barcelona and Nice, and visits to lesser-known ports like Genoa, Catania and Malaga.
“Winter is when the Mediterranean slows down—and that’s when Windstar steps in,” said Jess Peterson, director of destination experience & itinerary planning.
For planners looking to extend travel opportunities into the shoulder season, Star Explorer’s winter voyages could provide a unique twist for incentive groups or leisure extensions. Highlights include local festival tie-ins like Venice’s Carnevale, Greece’s Epiphany celebrations and twinkling winter markets across the region.
Calgary to Welcome Three Luxury Marriott Hotels by 2030
Marriott International and Calgary-based developer Truman have announced plans to bring three high-end hotels to Calgary’s Culture + Entertainment District, marking the brand’s first luxury offerings in the city. The lineup includes W Calgary, JW Marriott Calgary and an Autograph Collection Hotel at Stampede Park, with openings expected in 2028, 2029 and 2030 respectively.
Read More: Notes From the Road: Calgary
The W Calgary and JW Marriott Calgary will anchor two of Western Canada’s tallest towers, offering a combined 505 hotel rooms, nearly 360 branded residences and over 48,000 sq. ft. of meeting space. Meanwhile, the Autograph Collection Hotel, connected to Stampede Park, will offer 320 rooms, 15,000 square feet of event space and rooftop amenities with skyline views.
“As Marriott continues to expand our hospitality options in Canada…these new hotels are poised to usher in an unparalleled level of hospitality,” said Paul Cahill, COO of Marriott Canada.
With a $1.47 billion investment, the development is expected to support over 11,000 jobs and significantly boost tourism and convention capacity, aligning with Calgary’s ongoing revitalization of its downtown core.
Visit Seattle Launches AI-Powered Trip Planner ‘Emerald’
Seattle’s tourism board has rolled out a new tool for visitors seeking personalized trip advice. “Emerald,” a custom AI travel assistant powered by GuideGeek technology from Matador Network, is now live on Visit Seattle’s website and available via WhatsApp.
Trained on Visit Seattle’s deep destination content and connected to over 1,000 travel data sources, Emerald offers real-time, tailored suggestions for everything from parks and neighborhoods to restaurants and local events. Users can input preferences like group size, interests or travel style and get custom itineraries or on-the-go tips.
“Emerald helps each visitor tailor their experience in Seattle and its surroundings in their ideal way,” said Visit Seattle CEO Tammy Canavan. The tool can also assist international travelers ahead of major events like FIFA Club World Cup 2025 and World Cup 2026, offering multilingual support in over 45 languages.
Seattle joins a growing list of global destinations using AI to personalize travel, offering planners and visitors smarter, tech-forward ways to explore.
