Travel

Dream Vacations launches its 14th annual “Operation Vetrepreneur” contest, offering U.S. military veterans a chance to win a complimentary travel agency franchise. This year’s grand prize includes a franchise, a Carnival cruise for two, and comprehensive training. The contest aims to empower veterans with entrepreneurial opportunities, continuing a legacy of over $787,200 in gifted franchises since 2012. Applications are open until September 1, 2025.

JD.com has entered the travel and hospitality market, launching the “JD Hotels PLUS Member Program” with commission-free services for hotels. The company aims to leverage its supply chain expertise and food delivery services, offering competitive pricing and eliminating bundled services. While initial airfare prices match competitors, hotel bookings show subsidy benefits. JD.com is also actively recruiting industry professionals to bolster this sector.

JD.com is aggressively entering the flight and hotel booking market in China. They are aggressively recruiting, offering high salaries and focusing on talent from competitors like Ctrip. The company is also investing in marketing initiatives, including promotional campaigns and offering subsidies to attract customers. This expansion signals a major shift in the online travel landscape, potentially intensifying competition with existing players like Ctrip and Meituan, with a focus on attracting consumers during the summer travel season.

JetBlue and Brightline have formed an intermodal alliance for streamlined travel in Florida. Customers can now book Brightline rail tickets directly on jetblue.com, creating combined itineraries. This integrated booking optimizes travel to and from cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando with seamless air-rail transfers, offering convenience and enhanced customer recovery options during disruptions.