Week in Review – August 9, 2013

codeConsortia topped the news this week with news of American Express’s new technology initiatives. New capabilities include a platform that uses social gaming mechanics to award corporate travelers that adhere to travel policy; integration with TripCase; the ability to update Corporate Card charges in near real-time; and a new traveler-facing mobile interface for AX CONNECT.

In cruise news, we took a look at some of the top “little things” river cruises do for clients. Our picks included mobile apps, holiday videos and electrically assisted bicycles. In the comments section, Daniela Harrison added the free water, as well as free wine and beer during lunch and dinner, on Ama Waterways.

In air travel news, JetBlue took a step into the premium market with the announcement of plans for transcontinental private suites. The new amenity will be a completely separate single suite seat that includes a closeable door for privacy. Additionally, the airline will debut new lie-flat seats on Airbus A321 aircraft on the New York to Los Angeles and New York to San Francisco routes starting in the second quarter of 2014.

In the Caribbean, with summer winding down suppliers are rolling out a series of last-minute deals to boost travel to the region. We took a look at some of the top ones available.

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