Miscellaneous

✈️ GO7 has reintroduced its Sell-more-seats (SMS) platform, an IATA-compliant passenger service system, to the market. The system, with IATA code "W1," supports inventory management and codeshare operations. Swedish virtual airline Brommaflyg uses SMS to connect Visby and Stockholm Bromma Airport. SMS facilitates GDS connections, e-ticketing, and integrates with loyalty modules, offering a streamlined solution for airlines. Additionally, GO7's virtual interlining provides seamless baggage check-through and partner channel sales.

🗺 Visitors to the UK can ease travel stress by using a UK travel eSIM for vital information. Key tips include using simple phrases for warm interactions, clear questions for navigation, and digital tools for quick translations. Learning basic terms aids in understanding public signs and connecting with locals for guidance. These small efforts can transform a confusing journey into a smooth experience, enhancing confidence and enjoyment in new environments.

🛳 AirAsia rewards partners with arrivia, launching a cruise booking platform powered by iCruise in November 2025. Until November 30, 2025, members earn 5 AirAsia points per USD1, a 25% bonus on cruises. In 2024, 2.6 million Asians cruised, a 13% increase from 2023, per the CLIA report. The platform offers 30,000 itineraries across 40+ cruise lines. Nicole Tan and John Williams highlighted the growing demand for cruising in Asia.

🏠 Dezeen Awards 2025 winners announced in London: MAD (Architect of the Year), Tamil Nadu’s Earthscape Studio (Emerging Architect of the Year), Dimore Studio in Milan (Interior Designer of the Year), and Kyiv’s Mirzoyan (Emerging Interior Designer). London’s Studio Toogood (Designer of the Year) and Andu Masebo (Emerging Designer of the Year) were also recognized. MAD’s projects include the Fenix Museum of Migration, and Earthscape Studio is noted for sustainable designs in Kerala.

🍳 Thanksgiving in late November marks a cherished time for family and community. After the family feast featuring turkey, mashed potatoes, and more, the focus shifts to preparing for a community festival starting the next day. The event will draw 10,000 to 20,000 attendees, featuring handmade crafts, global gourmet food, and live music at the Heritage Center. It's a unique experience shared with the community, blending tradition and cultural celebration.

🍱 Simply Greek, a family-owned restaurant in Edinburgh, has grown from a 16-seat taverna to a 45-seat venue at 8 Union Street, near the Edinburgh Playhouse. Known for authentic Greek cuisine, it offers dishes like moussaka and souvlaki. Owner Dimitris Zarkalis celebrates customer support and invites guests Monday to Friday between 4-5.30 PM for a free mezze with orders. The restaurant embodies Greek hospitality with simple ingredients and big flavors.

📚 Nov. 25, 2025: Jannes Sörensen, founder of Kepler Hotel Group and the Kepler International Hospitality Academy, shares insights in a discussion with Matthias Huettebraeuker for Hospitality Daily.

🛫 Nov 25, 2025: Amex GBT is evaluating a possible sale after shares dropped 23% in a year amidst acquisition scrutiny. With American Express holding a 30.1% stake, the company's 2024–2025 CWT acquisition is under antitrust review in the US and UK. Competing in a crowded market with Booking Holdings and others, advisers are exploring interest from corporate travel platforms and private equity. The decision on potential sale remains open.

🍴 Bret Thorn, a Denver native, is the Senior Food & Beverage Editor at Nation’s Restaurant News since 1999 and Restaurant Hospitality since 2016. In 2006, he won the Jesse H. Neal Award. A Tufts University magna cum laude graduate, Bret also studied at Le Cordon Bleu and worked for ABC News in 1989. He authored entries in the Oxford Encyclopedia (2012) and the Oxford Companion (2015). Inducted into Disciples d’Escoffier in 2014, he resides in Brooklyn, NY.