Why a Trendsetting Industrial Designer Avoids Hotels When He Travels
Industrial designers usually aren't nearly as famous as the ubiquitous products they design, but Yves Béhar, the Swiss-born founder of Fuseproject, may be the rare exception. He's had a hand in Jawbone's audio equipment, the Snoo smart sleeper, Herman Miller's Sayl chair and the Samsung Frame TV. His latest project is a partnership with Italian shipyard Rossinavi to create Solsea, a hybrid-electric catamaran superyacht designed for silent, sustainable exploration. The artificial-intelligence-equipped vessel continuously monitors its own operations and can be fully charged within five hours.
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Associated Press
18 minutes ago
- Associated Press
GEMtrust DAO Launches GEM DiCom: The First Digitally Native Commodity Rooted in Investment-Grade Gemstones
07/31/2025, Zug, Switzerland // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // GEMtrust DAO has officially unveiled GEM DiCom (Digital Commodity) – a new blockchain-based asset class that is transparently associated to audited gemstone reserves held in secure Swiss vaults. Unlike stablecoins or tokenized securities, GEM DiCom does not maintain a fixed value, peg, or offer redemption rights. Instead, it is a market-driven digital asset whose value is shaped by market supply and demand, and whose credibility stems from transparent association with a diversified portfolio of certified gemstones. ' GEM DiCom isn't a stablecoin and doesn't promise price stability or redemption,' said the team behind GEMtrust. 'It's a digital commodity, purpose-built to reflect the resilience and long-term value of rare physical resources – without requiring trust in a central issuer. ' GEM DiCom is governed by GEMtrust DAO, a decentralized organization initiated by trusted German and Swiss institutions with deep expertise in gemology, asset custody, and blockchain. No single company or individual controls the project. The DAO ensures transparency through proof-of-reserve, smart contract governance, and third-party certification – not by offering direct claims to physical gemstones. Key Features of GEM DiCom: Through the creation of the GEM DiCom, GEMtrust DAO aims to provide a digital asset that's as stable, scarce, and enduring as the gemstones it represents – offering a new framework for long-term wealth preservation in the digital age. For more information about GEM DiCom, visit: About GEMtrust DAO GEMtrust DAO is a decentralized governance framework established by a coalition of German and Swiss institutions with expertise in gemology, asset security, and blockchain infrastructure. The DAO was deliberately structured to eliminate central control, reduce manipulation risk, and ensure operations remain open, traceable, and resilient. GEMtrust does not ask for trust in a name – it removes the need for trust through fully auditable, verifiable systems. Media Contact: [email protected] Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, financial guidance, or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities or cryptocurrencies. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this release are solely those of the issuing company or its authorized representatives. The publisher, distributor, and any associated third parties make no representations or guarantees of profit, and explicitly disclaim any liability for losses or damages incurred as a result of using or relying on the information presented. Cryptocurrency and digital asset investments carry a high level of risk, including the potential loss of all capital. There are no guarantees of performance, and markets may become illiquid or go to zero. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own independent research and consult with licensed financial professionals before making any investment decisions. By accessing and reading this press release, you agree not to reproduce, distribute, or use this content for any unlawful or unauthorized purposes. Use of this content signifies your acceptance of these terms. For any questions or clarifications, please contact the issuing company directly. Do not contact the publisher, distributor, or any unrelated third party.
Skift
an hour ago
- Skift
Luxury Travel's Next Era: AI, Empathy, and Expertise with Manfredi Lefebvre
Heritage Group's Manfredi Lefebvre D'Ovidio brings decades of travel and cruise leadership to Skift Global Forum to share his vision for AI, personalization, and luxury travel's future. Few names carry as much weight in high-end global travel as Manfredi Lefebvre D'Ovidio. From expanding Silversea Cruises to acquiring Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group and Crystal Cruises, his leadership blends deep industry knowledge with bold investments in innovation. Now, as Executive Chairman of Heritage Group and A&K Travel Group, Lefebvre is focusing on luxury travel and transformative sectors like biotechnology, energy transition, and philanthropy. Ahead of his session at Skift Global Forum, he shared his perspective on AI, personalization, and why technology will only deepen, not diminish, the human side of travel. 1. As AI and technology rapidly evolve, how are you integrating them into your business? 'Travel is fundamentally about human connection…AI is a tool to enhance it.' He explained that A&K built its systems to support this philosophy: 'When our AI systems handle the routine tasks, our travel consultants can focus on the conversations that matter. They can spend time understanding why a guest wants to visit Japan for the first time, or crafting the perfect surprise for a couple celebrating their anniversary.' He pointed out how A&K's global network amplifies this approach: 'We have people living in these destinations who are immersed in the local culture. AI helps us connect the right local expert with the right guest at the right moment. It's not about automation, it's about making those human connections more meaningful and timely.' Lefebvre also noted its role in marketing: 'We're also using AI in our marketing to deliver more relevant content, but we never lose sight of the fact that travel is real life. No algorithm can replicate the feeling of watching a sunset over the Serengeti or the warmth of a local guide sharing stories about their hometown. AI helps us identify who might be interested in those experiences, but it's our people who bring them to life.' 2. What is one irreversible shift that you believe will redefine travel? 'The complete rejection of cookie-cutter experiences,' he said. 'Today's travelers don't just want something different, they want something that feels like it was created specifically for them.' 'What excites me about this shift,' Lefebvre added, 'is that it plays directly to our strengths. We've always been in the business of personalization through human interaction. Our local teams around the world don't just know the best restaurants; they know which chef would love to meet a guest who's passionate about sustainable farming, or which artist would enjoy showing a traveler their private studio.' 'This isn't about data points and algorithms, though those help,' he continued. 'It's about having real people in real places who can create connections that turn a trip into a transformative experience. The companies that will thrive are those that can combine deep local knowledge with the ability to act on it quickly and personally.' 3. How is A&K rethinking personalization for today's travelers? 'Personalization for us starts with a simple truth: every guest is unique, and every conversation should reflect that,' Lefebvre explained. 'We're not trying to predict what someone wants based on their demographic profile; we're listening to what they actually tell us and using our global network to deliver on those specific desires.' 'Our approach has three key elements,' he said. 'First, we use technology to capture and understand the nuances of what our guests share with us. Second, we combine those insights with the deep local knowledge of our destination teams who live and breathe these places every day. Third, we use AI to help our travel designers connect the dots faster, so they can spend more time crafting experiences rather than searching for information.' 'The result is something that feels effortless to our guests but is actually quite sophisticated behind the scenes,' he pointed out. 'When someone mentions they love street food, our local teams don't just recommend the popular spots. They know the hidden gems, the family-run places, the markets where you can learn to cook alongside local chefs. Technology helps us surface these connections faster, but it's the human relationships that make them memorable.' 4. How do you see the human side of travel evolving in a digital world? 'The more digital our world becomes, the more precious authentic human connection becomes,' he observed. 'We're seeing this paradox everywhere: as people spend more time behind screens, they crave real experiences and genuine interactions when they travel.' 'Our AI tools free our people from administrative work so they can focus on what machines simply cannot do: understand the emotion behind a travel dream, sense when someone needs reassurance, or spot the perfect moment to suggest an unexpected adventure.' 'Our global network is our secret weapon here,' he added. 'When you're planning a trip to Morocco, you're not just talking to someone in an office who's read about Marrakech. You're connected with our team member who grew up there, who knows the best time to visit the Atlas Mountains, who can introduce you to the craftsman who will teach you traditional pottery techniques.' 'The future of travel isn't about choosing between digital efficiency and human warmth,' he concluded. 'It's about using technology to make human connections more meaningful, more timely, and more personal.' 5. What's one big bet you're making on the future of travel? 'Our biggest prediction is on the irreplaceable value of human expertise enhanced by intelligent technology,' Lefebvre said. 'We believe the future belongs to companies that can seamlessly blend sophisticated tools with exceptional human knowledge to create experiences that feel both effortless and deeply personal.' 'This means continuing to invest in our technology while simultaneously investing in our people around the world,' he explained. 'We believe that travellers will increasingly choose companies that can deliver the convenience and insights of advanced AI while maintaining the warmth, creativity, and cultural sensitivity that only comes from having real people in real places.' Join Manfredi Lefebvre D'Ovidio Live at Skift Global Forum With the transformation of Silversea Cruises and leadership roles spanning A&K Travel Group, Crystal Cruises, and Heritage Group, Lefebvre's track record speaks for itself. His insights at Skift Global Forum will offer an unparalleled look at how AI, personalization, and human expertise will shape luxury travel for years to come. Secure your seat at Skift Global Forum to hear from Manfredi Lefebvre and other industry leaders redefining travel's future. Get Your Tickets Lock in the best rate now – transfer tickets later if needed. 🎟️ Final price: $3,695 (Solo), $3,495 (Group) 🗓️ Set a reminder before the next price jump 1 Person Solo Ticket $3,395 Buy Now 2-6 People Group Ticket From $3,195 Buy Now Skift Global Forum 2025: A New Era Demands a New Map The last five years were about resilience and regrowth. The next five? Reinvention. Skift Global Forum 2025 is where travel's next chapter takes shape — through bold ideas, strategic clarity, and the people reshaping the industry. Read More
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Travel + Leisure
2 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
Amazon's Newest Fashion Drop Has the Best Vacation Clothes I've Seen All Summer—Including Linen Styles From $8
Whenever I'm planning a vacation, I'm tempted to splurge on a whole new wardrobe. Even a quick weekend trip can spark an intense shopping frenzy, so I've mastered finding high-quality, inexpensive travel pieces that won't break the bank. Believe it or not, one of the best retailers to shop for affordable, elevated pieces is Amazon—and I just found a fresh batch of travel-ready styles. Amazon's New Releases storefront is filled with just-added pieces that are ideal for summer travel. I searched these new fashion drops, and I was seriously impressed with what I found: high-quality cotton and linen pieces, elevated wardrobe staples, and travel-friendly designs. The best part? Since these items are brand new, you're unlikely to spot other travelers in the same outfit. Keep reading for the best travel clothes that no one will believe are from Amazon, including matching sets, linen pants, summer dresses, and more. Prices start at just $8. I'm willing to bet you'll want to wear these 'lightweight and comfortable' linen pants on repeat. Their stretchy drawstring waist and flowy flared cut ensure you'll stay comfy all day long, while the wrinkle-resistant fabric makes them ideal for travel. Best of all, they're available in four inseam lengths to accommodate a wide variety of heights. Pair them with casual sandals, white sneakers, or wedges, depending on the occasion. If there's such a thing as a perfect pair of shorts, this is it. The five-inch inseam isn't too short or too long, and the stretchy drawstring waist will keep you comfy all day. Plus, the breezy cotton-linen blend will keep you cool on the hottest summer days. I'd pair these shorts with a white blouse or button-down shirt, although the possibilities are endless. A flowy strapless top and wide-leg pants make up this gorgeous matching set, which happens to be one of the most stylish sets I've spotted at Amazon. The top and bottom are both classic, versatile pieces, so they can easily be styled separately as well as together. Best of all, the airy cotton fabric ensures you'll be cool and comfortable under the sun. Anrabess makes some of my favorite travel pants, and I'm eyeing this new cropped style. With a flowy fit and drawstring waist, these pants are 'extremely comfortable,' according to reviewers. The cropped length makes them perfect for walks on the beach, and they'd look great with a simple tank or feminine blouse. This pleated tank is a prime example of the pieces you need to build a capsule wardrobe. With a babydoll silhouette and pleated fabric, it puts a unique spin on a basic white tank while still being versatile enough to pair with just about anything. The cotton fabric, paired with the flowy top, will keep you feeling cool and breezy, even on summer's hottest days. If dramatic wide-leg pants are on your shopping list, I highly recommend you go for this pair. Reviewers describe them as 'lightweight without being paper-thin' and 'flowy while still being flattering.' Thanks to the linen-rayon blend, these pants have a better drape than pure linen, though they're still just as breathable. Ever since reading that a fellow travel writer wore a denim mini dress on repeat while living in Nice, I've been dying to add a similar style to my wardrobe. While denim may not scream 'summer,' the short hemline and relaxed fit ensure this adorable dress won't be too stuffy. Plus, this dress is so easy to style from day to night. I would wear this dress with white sneakers for a day of sightseeing and swap them out for a dressier shoe for dinner. Despite the cotton-linen blend, reviewers rave that this staple button-down 'doesn't wrinkle' and 'is not see-through.' I love that this shirt has three-quarter sleeves and a V-neck detail, which sets it apart from other simple button-downs. I'd layer it over a tank top on chilly nights or throw it over a swimsuit on beach days. This skirt set looks so much like a $98 version shoppers love—but it's just $32. But don't worry, you won't pay the price when it comes to quality, according to reviewers. Shoppers rave about the set's fabric quality, effortless look, and versatility. One shopper calls it 'great for travel,' adding that it can even be styled into the colder months. I love that the top and bottom can be styled separately or together, the mark of a wardrobe-elevating set. At just $8, this cotton-linen tank top is an absolute steal. Its breezy fabric and versatile design ensure it will get plenty of wear, and one reviewer wrote that they now own three different colors of this 'light and flowy' piece. There are 30 colors to choose from, including vibrant shades and simple neutrals. One reviewer wrote they 'love these for hot, humid weather in Hawaii.' These barrel pants blend my two favorite fabrics for summer, cotton and linen, ensuring you'll stay cool on hot travel days. Shoppers note that the fabric is thicker than expected, which means it's not as see-through as 100-percent linen. While these pants have a comfy drawstring waist, they do run small according to reviewers, so be sure to size up for the perfect fit. I'll be honest: I wasn't completely sold on this midi dress until I peeked at the reviews. Shoppers are raving about the fit and quality, and the dress looks gorgeous in the reviewer images. Instead of a structured A-line silhouette, it flows beautifully at the waist for a more relaxed feel. The dress is breezy, comfortable, and sophisticated. I'm adding it to my cart for my next dressy dinner. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
