Travel can a tricky business to be in when consumer confidence is so notably down.  As PYMNTS CEO Karen Webster noted in a recent column, this isn’t a projection based on complex economic models or worst-case scenarios. It’s the simple math derived from actual consumer behavior already underway nationwide. Still, those impacts may take some [] The post Booking Holdings Defies Travel Slump With 7% Surge in Gross Bookings appeared first on PYMNTS.com.

Kayak has launched a new platform to test artificial intelligence and to create new capabilities for travelers that will then become part of its main site.The company described Kayak.ai as a “test lab for AI-first features that’ll make our product even more personalized and conversational" and said it sets itself apart from other tools by offering real-time pricing in conversational search, as opposed to using cached data.“On our traditional site and app, we don’t yet have a full picture of travelers’ intent,” Kayak wrote in a news rrelease. “But with Kayak.ai and conversational search, the game changes. We’ll have a lot more context to understand the details of a search and therefore can provide even more relevant and helpful results.”. Get a dose of digital travel in your inbox each day

Over half of Americans are seeking a 'Sleepcation' in 2025, according to recent studySplit, Croatia, Canmore, Canada, Andorra la Vella, Andorra are top spots for a 'Sleepcation'KAYAK adds Explore Feature to Help Travelers Find Cheapest Destinations For Catching Z'sSTAMFORD, Conn., March 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Forget counting sheep - 'Sleepcations' are the growing trend for travelers seeking quality rest and relaxation during a trip. According to a recent study by KAYAK, the world's leading travel search engine, 85% of Americans have felt sleep-deprived in the past year and 55% are considering booking a 2025 "sleepcation," or vacations that prioritize quality sleep and relaxation.Ahead of World Sleep Day, KAYAK is launching a guide to the world's best sleepcation destinations , based on factors such as air quality, noise pollution, proximity to nature, safety and spa availability. With nearly 3 out of 4 of Americans saying they need a vacation this year more than ever, here are the top spots in the world to catch some Z's:Split, Croatia (think pristine coastlines so beautiful you may think you're already dreaming) Canmore, Canada (think fresh mountain air that will lull you to sleep after a day of hiking in nearby Banff National Park ) Andorra la Vella, Andorra (think valley views with literal sheep you can count on your way to a deep sleep)Looking stateside, here are the top U.S. destinations that fit the bill for a quality snooze:Leavenworth, Washington (this quaint Bavarian mountain town, like that of a far-off land, is what dreams are made of) Mammoth Lakes, California (with geothermal features and natural beauty, the sandman will see you now) Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (whether enjoying the Great Smokey Mountains or Dollywood, you'll be singing 'Light of a Clear Blue Morning' after a great night's sleep)"KAYAK's study highlights a growing shift in the way we think about travel. Rest and relaxation are no longer afterthoughts but are becoming the main event," said Dr. Angela Holliday-Bell, sleep specialist, coach and speaker