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Infinix Named No. 6 in Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024, Asia-Pacific Sector

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SHANGHAI, April 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Infinix, a trendy tech brand crafted for young consumers, has been recognized as the sixth most innovative company in the Asia-Pacific region by Fast Company in their prestigious annual list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024. This acknowledgment highlights Infinix’s unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence in the mobile technology industry. The company’s ability to combine cutting-edge technologies with affordable pricing has resonated strongly with consumers in emerging markets. Infinix’s revolutionary 260W fast-charging technologies, alongside AI-powered features such as noise reduction and the Folax virtual assistant, exemplify their commitment to enhancing the user experience.

Infinix Named No. 6 in Fast Company's World's Most Innovative Companies of 2024, Asia-Pacific Sector
Infinix Named No. 6 in Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024, Asia-Pacific Sector

“We are delighted to be acknowledged by Fast Company as one of the most innovative companies in the Asia-Pacific region. This recognition is a testament to our relentless pursuit of innovation and our commitment to providing our customers with state-of-the-art mobile technology. In 2024, we introduced the flagship gaming concept, empowering professional gamers to realize their dreams in the esports scene. Just last month, we also launched the Infinix NOTE 40 Series, aiming to deliver the best smartphone experience and be a leader in fast charging technology. All of these achievements are a result of listening to consumer feedback and striving to meet their demands,” said Tony Zhao, General Manager of Infinix.

Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies is a highly regarded franchise and one of the most anticipated editorial efforts of the year. The editors and writers at Fast Company identified the companies driving progress worldwide and across various industries, assessing thousands of submissions through a competitive application process. The result is a comprehensive guide to today’s innovation landscape, encompassing early-stage startups to some of the most valuable companies in the world.

“Despite the global slowdown in the growth of startups and large technology companies last year, these ten companies not only provided solutions for regional challenges in the Asia-Pacific region but also expanded their presence across borders,” stated Fast Company.

Hot off the press

Infinix’s innovative approach has secured its sixth position in Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024, Asia-Pacific Sector. The company’s commitment to innovation is evident in its groundbreaking 260W fast-charging technologies, which have set new standards for charging speeds. Furthermore, Infinix’s integration of AI-powered noise reduction technologies and the Folax virtual assistant enhances user interactions and convenience.

The recent launch of Infinix’s NOTE 40 Series has significantly contributed to its recognition for innovation. The NOTE 40 Series showcases the latest advancements in charging technology, including the All-Round FastCharge 2.0 powered by the revolutionary Cheetah X1 chip. This technology enables fast and efficient charging, providing users with a seamless charging experience.

Investing in the future

Infinix’s innovative spirit extends to its marketing strategies, with a focus on supporting STEM programs and coding camps. Collaborations with UNESCO and Google highlight the company’s commitment to driving positive change. With a track record of delivering cutting-edge products and a dedication to innovation, Infinix continues to lead the way in the globe, including the Asia-Pacific tech industry.

Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G with All-Round FastCharge 2.0
Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G with All-Round FastCharge 2.0

In addition to its product innovations, Infinix is making strides in corporate social responsibility (CSR) through its UNESCO CogLabs program. This initiative aims to empower young minds through technology by providing access to educational resources and opportunities. By supporting initiatives like UNESCO CogLabs, Infinix demonstrates its commitment to driving positive change in the communities it serves.

UNESCO's CogLab Educational Robot at UNESCO headquarters
UNESCO’s CogLab Educational Robot at UNESCO headquarters

Infinix provides device support for the UNESCO CogLabs Workshop
Infinix provides device support for the UNESCO CogLabs Workshop

For more information about Infinix and its innovative products and initiatives, visit www.infinixmobility.com

About Infinix:

Infinix Mobility is a rapidly emerging technology brand that designs, manufactures and markets an expanding portfolio of smart devices worldwide under the Infinix brand, which was founded in 2013. Targeting todays youth with first in class technology, Infinix creates trendy, powerful and attainably priced smart devices that bring the latest technology on the market to users around the world at a time when they need it at a price that they want it.

For more information, please visit: http://www.infinixmobility.com/

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Smart technology pioneer coocaa launches high-quality Frame+ TV to easily integrate art into daily life

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HANOI, Vietnam, April 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — coocaa Technology proudly presents Frame+ TV LN7000G, a masterpiece born from the convergence of global intelligent manufacturing and the exquisite skills of professional engineers to carefully polish the unique leader in the industry. More than just a television, Frame+ TV serves as a gateway to seamlessly integrate art into everyday life, which is within reach and fascinating. Frame+ TV pursues not only simple visual shock, but also a profound spiritual resonance, integrating art into daily life.

Frame+ TV LN7000G adopts coocaa’s “5G+8K flexible smart factory”, which is a typical case in the field of 5G+ industrial Internet. Supported by automation, information management, and intelligent production lines, this factory optimizes productivity, quality, and flexibility. Through integrated control of the production process, advanced automated equipment, and intelligent systems, Frame+ TV achieves enhanced manufacturing efficiency and transparency. This ensures rapid adjustments to market demand, maintaining coocaa’s commitment to excellence.

The quality certification system of coocaa factory is even more rigorous. Having won multiple quality product system certifications, coocaa has integrated the world’s most stringent German standards into its own standard system to ensure the excellent quality of its products. These certifications demonstrate our commitment to excellence and reinforce consumer trust.

coocaa Frame+ TV LN7000G —— The perfect fusion of art and technology
coocaa Frame+ TV LN7000G —— The perfect fusion of art and technology

But Frame+ TV LN7000G is more than just a triumph of engineering—it is a work of art in its own right. The 30mm ultra-thin design and integrated body, which is less than one-third of the industry’s thickness, transform the TV from a cold black box into a light and artistic masterpiece, pursuing the ultimate visual experience. Its seamless wall-mounted installation creates the illusion of a real painting adorning the walls. Art mode has become a unique feature of Frame+ TV. Through functions such as art gallery, atmospheric space and family photo album, users can immerse themselves in the ocean of art in the home environment and create their own private art gallery.

In a world dominated by technology, Frame+ TV serves as a beacon of innovation and creativity, inviting consumers on a journey of artistic discovery to reimagine what is possible in home entertainment. During Shopee’s big promotion on April 4th, those who purchase Frame+ TV LN7000G will not only receive free art frames, racks and floor-standing electric fans, but also have surprise offers. More please visit  

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‘Hid my mommy belly’: Shoppers say this button-down, on sale for $31, is a comfy spring layer

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Spring brings so much fun to our lives — holidays like Easter and more daylight are just a couple of examples. However, it also brings plenty of unpredictable weather. From powerful storms to days that start chilly and end balmy, spring is arguably the hardest season to dress for. Layering is your friend for these unusual days, and Amazon shoppers have found a spring staple they say is ideal for tossing on or taking off as temps change: the Dokotoo Waffle Knit Shacket Jacket.

Dokotoo

This shirt/jacket hybrid is lightweight enough to wear during warmer months but substantial enough as a layer on chillier days.

Save $9 with coupon

$31 at Amazon

Why is this a good deal?

You can bring home this waffle knit shacket (somewhere between a shirt and a jacket, get it?) for just over $31 right now with an on-page coupon — that’s a discount of over 20%. It comes in 18 colors, ranging from neutrals like black and brown to more vibrant shades including pink and yellow, and they’re all on sale.

Why do I need this?

If you’re someone who never leaves home without a cardigan or jean jacket in the spring, this is for you. The shacket is lightweight and can be tossed on over your favorite tee or tank for extra warmth and coverage. However, you can also button it up and wear it by itself. Pair it with shorts, jeans or leggings — come summertime, it even makes for a great swimsuit cover-up.

This design features an oversized fit and one chest pocket for added interest. The waffle knit texture helps it feel a little more special than your run-of-the-mill cotton button-up, but take note: Some reviewers say the lighter colors are a bit sheer. We love how the jacket borders on baggy, which means you can roll up the sleeves for a cute, casual look. The wrists have a bit of elastic, so when you push up the sleeves, they won’t flop right back down. Pro tip: If you prefer a more fitted look, you may want to consider ordering a size down.

Waffle knit shacket on pink background.

This cozy waffle knit shacket comes in over 15 versatile colors. (Amazon)

What reviewers are saying

Amazon shoppers have snapped up more than 100 of Dokotoo’s Waffle Knit Shacket Jackets in the last month, and more than 1,100 have given it five stars.

One pleased shopper said it was “exactly what I needed. This shirt/jacket is perfect for layering. You can dress it up or down, and it is lightweight enough to keep it on all day without getting too hot. Will be buying more colors!”

Another happy reviewer liked it so much that they bought three. They shared, “As a mom to a toddler and 7-month-old, I was looking for something that sort of hid my mommy belly but was still cool and comfortable for summer … I didn’t feel self-conscious (for once!) was comfy, cute and got a bunch of compliments … I loved it and bought two more because this will definitely be a new comfy-cool-casual staple for me!”

A third five-star fan wrote, “The size and fit are perfect. Lightweight but keeps the cold air at the office from freezing me out. Versatile in the many ways it can be worn both dressed up and dressed down. Good buy!”

“The fit is good, definitely oversized, covers my butt,” said a final shopper. “Not a jacket at all, but I use it as a cardigan-type deal. Also not as soft as I expected, but it’s not so bad that it’s uncomfortable. Overall happy with it and will probably wear it often.”

Dokotoo

You might just reach for this soft, oversized layer all spring and summer.

Save $9 with coupon

$31 at Amazon

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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Hotel Management Japan Offers a “Unique Staying Experience” to Guests with Its Exclusive Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing) Experience Available Only in Japan During This Season

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Introducing Three SAKURA Stay Plans Timed with Cherry Blossom Season in Tokyo, Kobe, and Fukuoka

TOKYO, April 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Operating from its base in Ebisu, situated within the Shibuya ward of Tokyo, Hotel Management Japan Co., Ltd., under the leadership of COO Junichi Araki, manages a diverse portfolio of 21 properties across Japan. This includes franchising 14 distinct brands, notably the Oriental Hotel and Hotel Oriental Express (hotels.com/en/), now part of the Oriental Hotels & Resorts group (https://www.oriental-). The brand’s vision is to offer guests a distinctive experience, aiming to integrate its properties with the local communities to become destinations in their own right. With a guiding principle of “Make Your Story Beautiful,” Oriental Hotels & Resorts and its partner hotel strives to create stays that forge lasting connections and uncover local treasures, providing guests with experiences that touch the heart. 

In Japan, a nation where the changing seasons bring distinct celebrations, the practice of hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is a beloved springtime tradition. Predictions for this year indicate that the cherry blossoms will begin to show around March 27, heralding a period when the entire country is gradually enveloped in a stunning display of pink blooms. Aligning with this seasonal phenomenon, Oriental Hotels & Resorts has prepared a series of activities and special plans at its facilities in Tokyo, Kobe, and Fukuoka, allowing guests to engage with this cultural event in a manner that is both unique and immersive.

As travel resumes in full swing, free from previous restrictions, Oriental Hotels & Resorts and partner hotel is committed to enhancing the travel experiences of visitors to Japan, offering a blend of traditional hospitality and local engagement that promises a richer, more meaningful journey through the beauty of spring.

Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station
Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station

Three Hotels offering the Japanese Custom of Cherry Blossom Viewing as a “Unique Staying Experience”

― TOKYO―

◆  Exclusive four-day cherry blossom cruising experience!

At the Hilton Tokyo Odaiba, positioned to offer commanding views over Tokyo Bay, guests are provided with an outstanding resort experience. The hotel distinguishes itself with a unique offering for guests staying in its Executive, Family, and Suite rooms: a complimentary “Cherry Blossom Viewing Cruise in ODAIBA,” scheduled for March 23 (Saturday), 24 (Sunday), 29 (Friday), and 30 (Saturday). This special activity presents an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the Sumida River’s cherry blossoms aboard a leisurely cruise.

The cruise departs from a conveniently located pier in Odaiba Kaihin Park, adjacent to the hotel, for a 90-minute voyage. It offers views of the Rainbow Bridge, a symbol of Odaiba, and sails past key attractions such as Tokyo Tower®, Hamarikyu Gardens, Tokyo Sky Tree®, and Sakura Bashi, celebrated for its cherry blossom vistas along the Sumida River. Furthermore, from March 23 to April 7, the “Cruise Proposal Plan” will allow one couple each day to experience a cherry blossom viewing route designed for unforgettable marriage proposals at one of Tokyo’s prime locations.

Guests will witness the breathtaking transformation of the cherry blossoms from vibrant daytime pink to the enchanting evening glow. The Hilton Tokyo Odaiba is offering this exquisite and luxurious cherry blossom viewing experience, inviting guests to partake in a tradition that has captivated both locals and visitors worldwide.

https://www.hiltonodaiba.jp/plans/restaurants/6770

Hilton Tokyo Odaiba
Hilton Tokyo Odaiba

― KOBE―

◆  Efforts towards sustainable hanami

Surrounded by water on three sides, the Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel stands as a beacon of resort luxury, offering guests immersive experiences that capture the essence of Kobe’s portside charm. The hotel marries stunning panoramas with the sensory pleasures of the sea breeze and the rhythmic sound of steam whistles from nearby ships.

Last Christmas, the hotel lobby was adorned with a unique decoration made from “paper threads,” a sustainable fabric created from recycled paper and underutilized wood, as part of forest thinning initiatives. Advancing this environmentally conscious approach, the hotel has transformed the material into “Cherry Blossom Coasters,” which will be featured in the lobby from March 21 to April 26. This period coincides with the expected cherry blossom season. The coasters are treated with the “nokori-zome” dyeing process, utilizing second-generation cherry trees from Gifu Prefecture’s Neo region, renowned for its light-reddish blossoms.

The hotel extends an invitation to guests to experience the cherry blossoms through this sustainable lens, embodying a collective wish for the enduring beauty and legacy of Japan’s most cherished floral emblem.

― FUKUOKA―

◆  Excellent Access to the Hotel! Enjoy a Special Hanami Experience in the Privacy of a Unique Room, Exclusive to One Room per Day 

A mere minute’s walk from JR Hakata Station and just five minutes via subway from Fukuoka Airport, the Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station is positioned as a prime choice for travelers seeking both convenience and proximity. This season, the hotel is unveiling the “SAKURA-Sakura Room Accommodation Plan,” from March 25 to April 24, offering guests a singular experience centered around the Japanese cherry blossom viewing tradition. This specially themed room is adorned with cherry blossom motifs, offering a bright and expansive setting for guests to indulge in the hanami spirit indoors. This initiative caters to those looking for a private and serene way to enjoy the cherry blossoms, away from the unpredictability of weather and the bustle of crowds. Availability is exclusive to one room per day, making it a coveted option for those wishing to embrace the spring season with family, friends, and cherished ones in a beautifully curated environment.

This spring, we invite you to enjoy an unforgettable and special SAKURA hotel stay at an Oriental Hotels & Resorts and partner property.

About Oriental Hotels & Resorts

Oriental Hotels & Resorts, a hotel franchise operated by Hotel Management Japan Co., aims to offer guests a unique staying experience and to develop hotels that serve as tourist destinations in harmony with the local community. The franchise oversees 14 hotels across Japan, including notable properties such as the “Oriental Hotel” and “Hotel Oriental Express,” encompassing a total of 3,940 guest rooms. Additionally, the “CLUB ORIENTAL” loyalty program provides enticing benefits and exclusive plans for members, without requiring any admission or membership fees.

-Website: https://www.oriental-hotels.com
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070068335069
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oriental_hotelsandresorts
-YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@orientalhotelsandresorts
-CLUB ORIENTAL: https://www.oriental-hotels.com/club-oriental/

About Hotel Management Japan

Hotel Management Japan, Inc. is a hotel management company that operates 22 hotels across Japan, boasting a total of 6,438 guest rooms. The company employs a workforce of 2,560. Beyond its proprietary brands, Oriental Hotel and Hotel Oriental Express, it also manages and operates a diverse range of hotels, including prestigious names such as Hilton, Sheraton, and Hotel Nikko (as of April 2024).

https://www.oriental-hotels.com/hotellist/

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Baidu Create 2024: Empowering Everyone as Creators of the AI Future

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BEIJING, April 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Baidu, Inc. (NASDAQ: BIDU and HKEX: 9888), a leading AI company with strong Internet foundation, will host its annual flagship AI developer conference Baidu Create on April 16th at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center.

Baidu Create will take place on April 16th at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center
Baidu Create will take place on April 16th at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center

Under the theme “Create the Future”, this year’s Baidu Create is set to unveil a series of stunning AI advancements, including new ERNIE models and development toolkits.  The event will also delve into first-hand best practices, enabling more developers to build best-in-class AI-native applications with greater ease.

Robin Li, Co-founder, Chairman and CEO of Baidu, will deliver a keynote speech, his first major public speech of 2024. Li will explore how Baidu empowers AI developers with increasingly versatile and easy-to-use models and tools to build a stronger and more dynamic AI ecosystem.

Baidu believes that the key to “industry applications” of foundation models is integrating general AI capabilities of foundation models with industry expertise for specific domains. As Li puts it, this entails “combining a foundation model as the smarter AI base with specialized small models that can respond faster at lower cost.”

Li will further introduce Baidu’s newly launched lightweight models, including ERNIE Speed, ERNIE Lite and ERNIE Tiny, with demos showcasing the optimal combination use of large and lightweight models for faster response at lower inference cost.

In addition, Li will explore Baidu’s three AI toolkits for agent development, AI application development and model customization. These toolkits allow people without programming expertise to create AI applications. As Li stated previously, “Everyone can create. There won’t be such a job as a programmer in the future. As long as you can speak, you will be able to ‘create’ like a programmer.”

Other speakers of this year’s Baidu Create will include:

  • Dr. Haifeng Wang, Chief Technology Officer of Baidu
  • Dr. Dou Shen, Executive Vice President of Baidu and President of AI Cloud Group
  • Jackson He, Senior Corporate Vice President of Baidu and General Manager of Mobile Ecosystem Group
  • Dr. Ying Li, Corporate Vice President of Baidu and CEO of Xiaodu Technology
  • Peter P. Chen, Vice President and General Manager of Datacenter and AI Group, Intel China

The full-day event will also feature more than 20 industry forums and over 30 AI development open classes. Spread across a 3,000 square foot AI interactive experience area and AI music festival, Baidu Create will provide guests with an unforgettable experience of immersion in AI. Those interested in participating can register for access passes now via https://create.baidu.com/m/create/main/2024/ticket.html?lng=en.

Baidu Create 2024 will be available to view via livestream from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM Beijing Time on April 16th (9:30 PM-12:00 AM EST on April 15th) via Baidu’s official X and YouTube accounts.

About Baidu                                                                                                               

Founded in 2000, Baidu’s mission is to make the complicated world simpler through technology. Baidu is a leading AI company with strong Internet foundation. Baidu is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “BIDU”, and on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code “9888”. Currently, one ADS represents eight Class A ordinary shares.  

Media Contact
intlcomm@baidu.com

Source: Baidu, Inc.

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AsiaPay Launches Digital Payment Solution to AIRSWIFT for Simplify Travelers Payments across Asia

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MANILA, Philippines, April 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — AsiaPay, a leading digital payment service and technology provider in Asia, has teamed up with Airswift. Airswift is a boutique airline in the Philippines with a permit to operate domestic scheduled and chartered air transportation services focusing on Palawan routes. The Ayala-affiliated carrier has today announced a collaboration with AsiaPay as its major digital payments provider to further its services and expansion in the market.

With this partnership, Airswift is now integrated into the PesoPay Payment Gateway, which provides beneficial, streamlined payment services to its passengers. Airswift flyers now only need to connect to PesoPay once to be able to have access to the cards, eWallets, and Netbanking payment options. This intelligent service solution enables Airswift’s frequent online passengers to enjoy a more convenient checkout and a truly stress-free travel experience, resulting in increased transaction acceptance rates.

“The facility enables Airswift to operate more cost-effectively, enabling the business to capitalize on the myriad of opportunities in the growing Asian network and possibly beyond the Philippines in the near future. In support of our goals of growth and market expansion, Airswift needed a pioneering payment provider in Asia like AsiaPay with the scale and international expertise to help build our successful eCommerce presence in the Philippines.” commented by Ms. Liza Tango, Airswift CFO.

AsiaPay is excited that, through our partnership with Airswift, we are now able to offer all the payment options that travelers in these rapidly growing regions desire.

As a leading digital payment service and technology player in Asia for 24 years, we strive to add different new payment methods and features to our digital payment platform to readily enhance sales, service, productivity, and risk savings.

“We are proud to launch this service alongside Airswift. Being a leading digital payment service player in Asia, we understand our merchant’s pain points in addressing an ever-changing consumer need for a more convenient, user-friendly, and more secure way to pay online for tickets and travel services.” Alberto Javier, Associate Director, Sales and Marketing of AsiaPay.

About AsiaPay

Founded in 2000, AsiaPay is a premier digital payment services, and technology player that strives to bring advanced, secure, integrated, and cost-effective digital payment processing solutions and services to banks, corporations, and e-Businesses around the world. We cover a suite of international credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, net banking, eWallet, QR codes, and cash collection.

AsiaPay is also an accredited payment processor and payment gateway solution for banks with ISO certification and 3-D Secure vendors for Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and JCB. AsiaPay offers a variety of award-winning payment solutions that are multi-currency, multi-lingual, multi-card, and multi-channel integrated together with the advanced fraud detection system, payment analytics, and management solutions.

Headquartered in Hong Kong, AsiaPay has local offices across 12 countries and regions in Asia including Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Mainland China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, and India. In this way, support is given to facilitate better-localized services for our partners.

About Airswift Airlines

AirSWIFT (formerly Island Transvoyager) is a boutique airline in the Philippines with a permit to operate domestic scheduled and non-scheduled air transportation services. It also serves the aircraft transportation requirements of its affiliated company, El Nido Resorts.

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The reason luxury travel is so expensive these days

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The travel industry is largely back on track.

But high prices in the luxury sector, which rose in the wake of the Covid pandemic, aren’t returning to normal. In fact, they’re growing higher by the month.

Luxury hotel rates reached “peak levels” this year, with average daily rates up 70% compared to 2019, according to the luxury travel company Virtuoso.

“July 2024 stands out with the highest rate, marking an 85% increase compared to July 2019,” a company representative told CNBC Travel.

The price for luxury train travel is also soaring, with rates for Accor’s yet-to-be-opened La Dolce Vita Orient-Express climbing 75% in 16 months. The starting price for a one-night trip on the train, which is set to open in Italy in 2025, went from 2,000 euros in late 2022 to 3,500 euros ($3,776) last month.

Why higher luxury travel costs are likely here to stay

Rates on another luxury European train, Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, also jumped this spring, from £3,530 in February to £7,060 ($8,925) in March, according to a review of its website.

Belmond has not yet responded to CNBC’s request for comment, but Accor told CNBC Travel that pricing and plans “are constantly evolving.”

Travel prices have increased for many of the same reasons that have affected other industries: inflation, rising labor costs, supply chain issues and debt service rates.

But travelers’ unflinching willingness to pay the new rates means the “old” prices for a five-star holiday may be a thing of the past.

When money is ‘no object’

As inflation and rising costs abate, luxury travel prices are holding firm.

That’s because at significantly higher rates, “the demand is there,” said Henry Harteveldt, president of the travel market research company, Atmosphere Research Group

Luxury travel prices are high because 'the demand is there'

“Money is almost no object for some of these guests,” Harteveldt told “Squawk Box Asia” Monday. “These are the wealthy and ultra-wealthy traveler, and for them 1000 euros, $1,000 or more a night, is nothing. It’s like maybe $250 to most consumers.”

Wealthy travelers also value new and different experiences, such as luxury train travel, he said.

“They want something exclusive … and these companies are going to capitalize on it while they can.”

Where pricing matters

For price-conscious travelers, competition will temper costs at the budget and mid-scale sectors, said Harteveldt.

“For those of us who live on planet Earth… budget airfares have been coming down because competition there is growing,” he said. “Budget and midscale hotels are among the fastest growing in the hotel sector. They too introduce lower pricing as they open or expand the number of properties in those categories.”

Booking early can save money on airfares, but hotel pricing works differently, he said.

“With hotels, you either book early or wait until within two weeks of your travel date,” said Harteveldt. “I personally book refundable and changeable hotel rates [because] I have noticed that, in some cases, hotel rates can go down… closer to the check-in date, if demand isn’t where they expected it to be.”

‘The luxury boom continues’

Overall, travel demand remains strong, yet surveys show some travelers are beginning to buckle under the costs.

But this isn’t affecting the luxury travel sphere at the same level, said Dave Goodger, managing director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company.

“The luxury boom continues despite the flatlining economic activity in some major developed markets,” he told CNBC Travel.

The industry continues to see upward pricing pressure for luxury experiences, he said.

“This has come as some travellers have traded up for more luxury experiences,” he said. “It also reflects the fact that income and wealth levels, including accumulated savings, remain healthy for higher net wealth households.”

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Psst: Apple AirPods are on sale for only $89 at Walmart — and they may sell out quickly

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It’s a personal-audio truism: Those who try AirPods love them at first listen and never look back. These durable wireless earbuds are comfortable, have a long battery life and produce fantastic sound — and they have an army of fans. Right now, you can get a stellar second-generation pair from Walmart for $40 off.

Walmart

Just double-tap these AirPods to skip a song, answer a call or activate Siri.

$89 at Walmart

Why is this a good deal?

Just like it’s true that AirPods are great, it’s also true that good sales are rare. This price meets the bar, though — you aren’t likely to see a better deal until a major sales event like Prime Day or Black Friday. You can also pick them up at Amazon for $99, where they have more than 535,000 reviews.

Why do I need this?

There’s a reason AirPods always sell out: They’re awesome. Sure, everyone might rave about AirPods Pro, but those cost a pretty penny. These second-generation AirPods provide comparable sound quality, are easy to use and just plain look great. What’s more, their charging case slips easily into a pocket or purse (you might even forget it’s in there).

You can expect roughly five hours of battery life on a single charge, but the case can recharge your AirPods five times before it runs out of juice. That’s nearly a full day of listening to your favorite tunes or podcasts, streaming content or listening to that hot new audiobook. Thanks to the Apple H1 chip, these pair easily with your iOS devices — just open the case and you’ll be prompted to connect them.

They’re also durable. Remember how we said you might forget they’re in your pocket? Well, we speak from experience — these AirPods survived a trip through the washing machine in a pants pocket without skipping a beat (so to speak).

airpods in case

AirPods will keep you jamming out to your favorite tunes all day long. (Walmart)

What reviewers say

Fans of AirPods gush about them — over 34,000 Walmart shoppers have given these a nearly perfect review.

“These AirPods are just *kiss*! The sound quality is to die for and they go super loud so they can definitely tune someone out,” said one fan.

“I love AirPods so much! They fit comfortably in my ears and the sound quality is so good. They can get lost easily and the sound can sometimes bleed out, but other than that I have absolutely no complaints,” shared another shopper.

A generous parent said, “I bought these for my teenage daughter and she loves them! They came packaged nicely and pre-charged! They were easy to set up and are easy to use. She loves how easy it is to change songs and answer calls. The battery life is great, she uses them all the time and has never had an issue with them lasting all day on a charge.”

Walmart

Forty bucks off a pair of these stellar buds? Music to our ears!

$89 at Walmart

Want to save even more? Make sure you’re signed up for Walmart+. It’s easy to sign up for your free 30-day trial here. You’ll get free shipping and grocery delivery, savings on gas and prescriptions, exclusive access to major deals, and more. (And by the way, those without Walmart+ still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

Looking for more great Walmart deals? Check these out:

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United asks pilots to take unpaid time off, citing Boeing’s delayed aircraft

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Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, from United Airlines company, taking off from Barcelona airport, in Barcelona on 28th March 2023. 

JanValls | Nurphoto | Getty Images

United Airlines is asking pilots to take unpaid time off next month, citing late-arriving aircraft from Boeing, according to a note sent to pilots.

It’s another example of how Boeing’s customers say the manufacturer’s production problems and safety crisis are impacting their growth plans. The offer comes after United and other airlines in recent years have clamored for more pilots when the Covid-19 pandemic travel slump ended and demand surged.

“Due to recent changes to our Boeing deliveries, the remaining 2024 forecast block hours for United have been significantly reduced,” the United chapter of the Air Line Pilots Association, the pilots’ union, said in a note to members Friday. “While the delivery issues surround our 787 and 737 fleets, the impact will affect other fleets as well.”

United confirmed the request for voluntary, unpaid time off. The airline previously said it would pause pilot hiring this spring because of aircraft arriving late from Boeing, CNBC reported last month.

The union said it expects United to offer more time off “for the summer bid periods and potentially into the fall.”

United was contracted to receive 43 Boeing 737 Max 8 planes and 34 Max 9 models this year, but now expects to receive 37 and 19, respectively, according to a company filing in February. It had expected Boeing would also hand over 80 Max 10s this year and 71 next year. That model hasn’t yet been certified by the Federal Aviation Administration, and the airline removed them from the delivery schedule because it is “unable to accurately forecast the expected delivery period,” it said in the filing.

United CEO Scott Kirby has been among the most vocal about the production problems and delivery delays at Boeing, including most recently the crisis stemming from a door plug that blew out of a nearly new Boeing 737 Max 9 operated by an Alaska Airlines flight that was at about 16,000 feet.

Other airlines bosses have also grown frustrated with the delivery delays resulting from Boeing’s manufacturing issues.

Southwest Airlines last month said it was reevaluating its 2024 financial guidance, citing fewer Boeing deliveries, and has paused pilot and flight attendant hiring, while Alaska Airlines said its 2024 capacity estimates are “in flux due to uncertainty around the timing of aircraft deliveries as a result of increased Federal Aviation Administration and Department of Justice scrutiny on Boeing and its operations.”

Boeing declined to comment.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun last week announced he would leave at the end of the year as part of a broad leadership shake-up, which included the departures of the board chairman and the head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes unit.

Don’t miss these stories from CNBC PRO:

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TORRAS Launches COOLiFY Cyber to the Masses, the Ultimate Pursuit of Personal Temperature Management Experience

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HONG KONG, April 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — TORRAS officially launches COOLiFY Cyber to the masses, the ultimate gadget for personal temperature management experience. At the CES exhibition in January this year, TORRAS as a a pioneering technology-driven brand, has proudly unveiled the prototype of COOLiFY Cyber, generating significant interest from media outlets worldwide for its high-performance cooling capabilities. On April 1st, COOLiFY Cyber is available on Amazon, bestbuy.com, and torraslife.com.

COOliFY Cyber: The Ultimate Personal Air Conditioner
COOliFY Cyber: The Ultimate Personal Air Conditioner

The Ultimate Cooling Experience

COOLiFY Cyber stands as a pinnacle product catering to technology enthusiasts and discerning users seeking the ultimate cooling experience. TORRAS’ product managers have meticulously upgraded COOLiFY Cyber in numerous technological aspects. The patented high-temperature graphene boasts exceptional thermal conductivity, enhancing cooling efficiency by a remarkable 10%. Additionally, the Hydraulic Motors have been upgraded, transitioning from 26 high-speed blades measuring 0.82mm in thickness to ultra-thin 29 blades with a mere 0.5mm thickness, resulting in a 24% increase in wind speed compared to its predecessor.

Comprehensive Cooling Capabilities

During usage, COOLiFY Cyber offers a comprehensive cooling experience, with an enlarged neck contact area spanning up to 14,975mm². Powered by three high-efficiency thermoelectric semiconductors and four high-speed motors, it effectively cools the face, neck and backDual upward air outlets maximize the cooling sensation, while the upward airflow cools the inner layers of clothing. Thoughtfully designed, the custom airflow prevents discomfort by redirecting air away from the ears, ensuring a more enjoyable user experience.

Visually Stunning with Futuristic Materials

Visually appealing, COOLiFY Cyber features a bismuth-telluride-based material adorned with 366 cooling particles, delivering a stunning temperature reduction of 10 degrees Celsius. The graphene finish on the surface adds a futuristic and technological allure to the product.

Rapid Charging Technology

Ideal for those fleeting moments when users have outdoorsy activities, COOLiFY Cyber boasts a built-in 6000mAh high-density polymer battery that offers increased capacity despite its compact size. The 20W fast charging technology ensures the device charges rapidly, transforming it from 0% to 80% in just one hour, making it a must-have travel companion. Remarkably, COOLiFY Cyber retains its heating functionality, enabling seamless usage throughout the year, regardless of the season.

True to its brand mission of “Shatter the Ordinary,” TORRAS continues to push the boundaries of personal temperature management, and COOLiFY Cyber is an example of its relentless pursuit of excellence. The cooperation that TORRAS reached with the Dallas Mavericks in 2023 once again proves the brand’s determination to pursue the ultimate.

COOLiFY Cyber is available on Amazon, bestbuy.com, and torraslife.com at $279 on April 1st.

About TORRAS

Founded in 2012, TORRAS is an innovative brand with a brand mission of “Shatter the Ordinary.” They now have obtained more than 1,300 patents thus far, with 60 of its products winning prestigious international design awards. For more information, visit www.torraslife.com.

Press Contacts TORRAS Marketing: marketing@torraslife.com
TORRAS Marketing Manager: jacinta@torras-global.com
TORRAS PR Manager: ashley@torras-global.com 

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