Latest news with #AdamStewart
The Sun
30-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
ChatGPT can get you the best flight in SECONDS with two-sentence prompt – and book with the click of a button
LOOKING for a flight deal just got a whole lot easier with a simple prompt and the power of artificial intelligence. With a short message, ChatGPT can now find cheap tickets, filter your preferences, and even help you book a flight, all in seconds. 4 4 The tool, called Operator, works with Bing Travel to help users skip hours of browsing and comparing flight prices. TikTok user Adam Stewart previewed the useful AI agent in a post with over 5,000 likes. Stewart posts videos about AI and automation on his TikTok account, where he boasts over 105,000 followers. Earlier this year, the creator shared a video where he tested Operator by looking for a five-passenger flight to Hong Kong. He tasked Operator with finding a direct, daytime flight from Melbourne on April 7, with checked baggage included. 'I am trying to book a flight to Hong Kong for five people on the 7th of April, try to find me a direct flight," he said. "I want it to be a daytime flight as I don't sleep well on planes and make sure baggage is included." The two-sentence prompt simply asked Stewart, 'How many passengers?' and 'Morning or afternoon? ChatGPT immediately got to work, showing that it had filtered results to include only morning and afternoon departures. The user noted, 'Now we have got some options. Cathay, very nice.' It bypassed the login page and pulled up a flight option that matched the user's request. 'Now it found us a flight, this is perfect, it includes check-in,' the user said. Once the flight was selected, the system asked if they wanted to go ahead with the booking just by clicking one button. 'One thing is you can turn off the notifications, so you don't have to see how it works in the background,' Stewart added. What is ChatGPT? ChatGPT is a new artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT, which was launched in November 2022, was created by San Francisco-based startup OpenAI, an AI research firm. It's part of a new generation of AI systems. ChatGPT is a language model that can produce text. It can converse, generate readable text on demand and produce images and video based on what has been learned from a vast database of digital books, online writings and other media. ChatGPT essentially works like a written dialogue between the AI system and the person asking it questions GPT stands for Generative Pre-Trained Transformer and describes the type of model that can create AI-generated content. If you prompt it, for example ask it to 'write a short poem about flowers,' it will create a chunk of text based on that request. ChatGPT can also hold conversations and even learn from things you've said. It can handle very complicated prompts and is even being used by businesses to help with work. But note that it might not always tell you the truth. 'ChatGPT is incredibly limited, but good enough at some things to create a misleading impression of greatness,' OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said in 2022. The only step left was to enter passenger details. Operator is a research preview tool that uses its own browser to complete tasks like searching, filtering, and even booking flights. It's currently available to Pro users in the US, giving them early access to hands-off travel planning powered by ChatGPT. The entire process takes seconds and doesn't require switching between multiple websites or tabs. ChatGPT and its rival, Claude, are becoming go-to travel tools for finding affordable routes. Travelers can ask for flight suggestions by season, date, and price range. ChatGPT can also find low-cost airline options and hidden flight tricks. It can also plan multi-city routes, finding the cheapest ways to hit multiple spots. If the result isn't quite right, give more details, and ChatGPT will try again. 4 4
Skift
13-05-2025
- Business
- Skift
Beaches Resorts Expands to Meet Family Travel Demand
With multigenerational travel on the rise, Beaches Resorts is expanding across the Caribbean and redefining the all-inclusive family vacation through smart design, inclusive programming, and a focus on ease for every age. This sponsored content was created in collaboration with a Skift partner. With the summer travel season fast approaching, family vacations are top of mind. Skift Research shows that 31% of travelers are interested in multi-generational travel that includes parents, in-laws, and children. Meanwhile, IPX1031's Travel Outlook Survey reveals that 57% of Americans plan to take longer trips in 2025, signaling a shift toward more immersive vacations centered on quality time together. As families seek connection, comfort, and convenience amid rising costs and economic uncertainty, premium all-inclusive brands are uniquely positioned to thrive. According to data shared by Expedia Group, searches on using the 'all-inclusive' filter jumped 60% year over year. Beaches Resorts is ramping up capacity to meet that demand. The family-friendly arm of Sandals Resorts International is investing nearly $1 billion in a bold Caribbean expansion. But for Executive Chairman Adam Stewart, growth isn't just about scale — it's about building spaces that make it easy for families to truly unwind and reconnect. 'Multi-generational travel isn't a trend we're reacting to,' Stewart said. 'It's something we've anticipated for years, because we've watched generations of Sandals guests return to us with kids, then grandkids.' Tailored for Families, Designed for All Ages Founded in 1997, Beaches Resorts was built to translate Sandals' all-inclusive ease into a resort experience that works for families. While some travelers may not know the two brands are connected, they share the same commitment to service, design, and local Caribbean expertise — tailored for different life stages. Stewart credits the company's success to staying relentlessly focused on purpose-built design for each of those life stages. 'Everything has to serve someone — whether it's a toddler, a teen, or a grandparent,' he said. 'When you get that right, families can feel free, relaxed, and safe, all at the same time. Parents want ease, kids want adventure, and grandparents want comfort. Beaches is designed to offer all three.' Care and Support Across the Spectrum At Beaches Resorts, even toddlers under two are welcome in the kids' camps — no potty training required and no added fees. It's a rare offering in hospitality, made even more reassuring by the fact that staff are certified by the International Nanny Association. In addition, the resorts are autism-certified through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), with sensory-friendly accommodations, events, and activities. Kids' camps are staffed by counselors trained in autism sensitivity and feature programming developed with Sesame Workshop, including interactive experiences with Julia, a Sesame Street character with autism. 'We realized very quickly that inclusivity wasn't just a box to check — it was a philosophy that touched everything,' Stewart said. 'Everyone deserves to enjoy the Caribbean, no matter their needs or challenges.' That philosophy extends to layout and design. Beaches Resorts are intentionally built on flat terrain so elderly guests can traverse easily, with expansive beachfront access, wide paths, and thoughtful separation between quiet and high-energy zones. The result is freedom — for children to roam and explore and for adults to breathe easy. 'We want our resorts to be fully controlled and safe,' Stewart said. 'Peace of mind is a brand standard.' Building for Today's Family Travel Moment With inclusivity and intentional design at its core, Beaches Resorts is now scaling that vision across the Caribbean. The brand's nearly $1 billion expansion plan introduces five major developments, each tailored to the evolving needs of modern families. These include Beaches Barbados, a 600-room property featuring a lively 'Main Street' hub for dining and entertainment; Beaches Exuma in The Bahamas, a reimagined resort with multi-bedroom villas and direct access to the island's crystalline waters; Beaches Runaway Bay in Jamaica, designed for extended families with large suites and immersive activities; and the Treasure Beach Village at Beaches Turks & Caicos, adding 101 new suites — including beachside villas for up to 10 guests — and the brand's first-ever food hall. Beaches Exuma Planning for the fifth expansion is already underway at Beaches Negril, where the resort is set to add 100 new family suites and beachfront villas. This follows the debut of two standout accommodation categories — the Firesky Reserve Villas and Eventide Penthouse Collection — designed to offer expansive layouts, private plunge pools, rooftop terraces, and plenty of room for families to gather, unwind, and reconnect. 'We believe the Caribbean is having its best moment ever,' Stewart said. 'It's easy to get to, beautiful, and reliable — and we've spent more time perfecting Caribbean excellence than anyone else. The expansion is our response to what families are asking for.' Scaling With Purpose As Beaches builds for the future, it's also reinforcing its longstanding commitment to the Caribbean. In its newly released Corporate Social Responsibility Report, parent company Sandals Resorts International outlines four decades of environmental stewardship, community investment, and educational support across the region. Through the Sandals Foundation, the company has invested $115 million in programs that have impacted 1.7 million people — from planting coral and reforesting coastlines to supporting farmers, fishers, and local artisans. 'Many people don't realize Sandals is a family company, born in Jamaica,' Stewart said. 'Every stay at Beaches supports a larger promise — one that benefits local communities, schoolchildren, and ecosystems across the region.' A Family Legacy, Rooted in the Caribbean More than anything, the Beaches expansion reflects the Stewart family's personal connection to the Caribbean with a mission to elevate the region's hospitality — and keep it authentically Caribbean. 'Everything starts with the places and the people,' Stewart said. 'We've spent decades acquiring the best beachfront properties — and we train our teams from the ground up. We even cover the cost of their education, all the way through a master's degree, because we believe that when our team thrives, our guests feel it.' That long-term perspective has allowed Beaches Resorts to expand with intention, focusing on quality over speed. Some of the new resorts are built on land the company has held for decades, waiting for the right moment to develop. Guests, too, have grown with the brand. 'We see families year after year. One of our butlers was recently invited to a wedding in Boston by a family he's been caring for since their daughter was a little girl,' Stewart shared. 'That kind of connection doesn't happen just anywhere.' Beaches Runaway Bay Making Memories This Summer Looking ahead to the 2025 summer season, Stewart remains optimistic. 'The Caribbean always wins in times of instability,' he said. While global uncertainty may make long-haul travel less appealing, the Caribbean's proximity and reliability are powerful draws — especially for families seeking a break from stress, screens, and schedules. 'We compete against the world — Europe, safaris, cruise lines, theme parks,' Stewart said. 'But at the end of the day, the question is: Did your vacation leave you feeling more connected? Did your kids have fun? Did you actually get to relax? That's the experience we're building.' And for many families, that's the kind of vacation that keeps them coming back year after year. For the latest news and information about Beaches Resorts, click here. This content was created collaboratively by Sandals Resorts and Skift's branded content studio, SkiftX.
Arabian Business
05-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Qatar real estate market attracts global investors as Doha emerges as wealth hub, report Knight Frank
Doha is establishing itself as a hub for global wealth as Qatar's economy, opportunities across sectors and government planning attract international real estate investors, according to Knight Frank's latest report. The property consultancy's Doha Wealth Hub Series document, the first in a three-part examination of real estate markets in emerging Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) wealth centres, highlights the capital's growing status. Qatar's economic foundation stems from long-term national planning, with the 2030 Qatar National Vision launched in 2018 resulting in infrastructure and real estate investments of $330 billion. Doha office rents hit QAR 105 PSM in West Bay-Prime district The government's third National Development Strategy (2024-2030) aims to diversify the economy, attract foreign investment and enhance Qatar's competitive position globally. 'The public sector generally drives demand in Qatar's office market and 2024 saw a surge in leases by government ministries and state-owned enterprises in prime business districts. In Doha, Qatar Airways is planning to relocate its headquarters to the new $5.5 billion Msheireb Downtown this year, solidifying the area's reputation as a premium business hub,' Adam Stewart, Partner, Head of Qatar said. West Bay-Prime remains Doha's most expensive office location at QAR105 per square metre monthly, with Marina District following at QAR97 per square metre, attracting multinational firms in finance, technology and professional services. The office market benefits from Qatar's infrastructure investments, including the $36 billion Doha Metro and $16 billion Hamad International Airport, which connects to more than 180 cities worldwide. 'Despite its rapid development, Doha maintains low traffic congestion levels relative to many other global hubs, with ongoing investments in public transportation and smart city solutions preserving this enviable status. These qualities, combined with its cultural vibrancy, economic ambition and liveability, reinforce Doha's growing status as a forward-looking global city,' Faisal Durrani, Partner – Head of Research, MENA added. Waterfront properties command QAR 14,300 PSM The residential sector shows continued strength in prime locations, with total residential sales in Qatar reaching $3.2 billion last year. Among villa locations, Abu Hamour recorded the highest prices at QAR8,587 per square metre, followed by Al Thumama (QAR7,500) and Al Kheesa (QAR7,000). Apartment prices averaged QAR12,625 per square metre in 2024. Qanat Quartier (QAR13,977) and The Waterfront (QAR14,300) led the market, reflecting demand for luxury waterfront properties. Marina District (QAR13,600) remains popular with investors and occupiers, while Porto Arabia and The Pearl Island (QAR11,834) offer alternatives within The Pearl development. 'Doha continues to evolve as one of the Middle East's most attractive urban centres, offering a compelling blend of safety, accessibility and affordability. Ranked among the safest cities globally, it provides residents with a strong sense of security and stability. The city's relatively moderate cost of living compared to other international business hubs also adds to its appeal,' Stewart added. Qatar tourism sector grows 31 per cent, expected to reach QAR 135.2bn by 2034 Qatar's tourism sector expanded by 31 per cent to QAR81.2bn ($22.3 billion) in 2023, constituting 10.3 per cent of total economic output. Projections indicate this contribution will reach QAR135.2bn ($37.1 billion) by 2034, representing 12.8 per cent of GDP. The World Travel & Tourism Council forecasts international visitor spending to increase to QAR116bn (US$31.9 billion) by 2034. The hospitality market added more than 1,000 new hotel rooms in 2024, bringing total supply to 38,100 keys, with 60 per cent comprising internationally branded rooms. By end-2027, quality room supply is expected to reach 42,700 keys. International visitors to Qatar increased by 25 per cent year-on-year to 5.08 million in 2024, driven by major events including Formula 1 and ATP tennis tournaments, as well as cultural attractions and developments such as The Pearl and Lusail Boulevard. The retail sector has contributed to economic growth, with initiatives like Shop Qatar, launched in 2017, stimulating tourism and consumer spending. 'The country has added around 881,000 sqm of luxury retail space since 2011, helping to position the country as a major retail hub in the GCC. In fact, our research found that 79% of GCC nationals and GCC-based expats are keen to travel to Qatar purely for a shopping holiday,' Amar Hussain, Associate Partner said. 115 LEED-certified projects position Qatar as green leader Under the Qatar National Vision 2030, the government has increased efforts to ensure economic transformation is sustainable by diversifying the economy and reducing dependence on hydrocarbons. Qatar currently has 115 LEED-certified projects totalling 22.6 million square feet, placing it among leading nations outside the United States for US Green Building Council certifications. Msheireb Downtown exemplifies this commitment, aiming to house one of the largest collections of LEED-certified buildings globally. Qatar has also developed its own Global Sustainability Assessment System for the Gulf region's climate and requirements, achieving more than 1,400 certified buildings. 'Doha's rising prominence on the global real estate scene is driven by more than just regional optimism. Qatar has undergone a remarkable economic transformation since the introduction of the 2030 Qatar National Vision and our latest research shows Doha evolving into a regional economic powerhouse. Its programme of sustainable projects and infrastructure investment is creating a strong 'work, live, play' offer that will enhance its appeal to investors and support its emergence as a global wealth hub,' Faisal Durrani, Partner – Head of Research, MENA.
Zawya
05-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Doha becoming magnet for global wealth: Knight Frank
Doha is becoming a magnet for global wealth as Qatar's resilient economy, cross-sector opportunities and sovereign support put it on the radar of international realty investors, according to global property consultancy Knight Frank. In its latest Doha Wealth Hub Series report, Knight Frank said Doha emerges as leading wealth destination as the country's global appeal increases. The Qatari capital's rising prominence is grounded in robust economic fundamentals and long-term national planning. Since the introduction of the Qatar National Vision 2030 in 2018, the country has been supercharged by an estimated $330bn in infrastructure and real estate investment. The recent launch of the government's Third National Development Strategy (2024-30) signals a clear intent to diversify the economy further, attract foreign direct investment and strengthen Qatar's global competitiveness. Qatar offers residency to foreign nationals through its residency by investment programme, commonly known as the Qatar Golden Visa. To qualify for permanent residency, foreign investors must invest at least QR3.6mn in eligible real estate projects. "The public sector generally drives demand in Qatar's office market and 2024 saw a surge in leases by government ministries and state-owned enterprises in prime business districts. In Doha, Qatar Airways is planning to relocate its headquarters to the new $5.5bn Msheireb Downtown this year, solidifying the area's reputation as a premium business hub,' said Adam Stewart, Partner, Head of Qatar, Knight Frank. West Bay-Prime remains the most expensive office location, with monthly rents of QR105 per sq m, followed by Marina District (QR97 per sq m), which is attracting multinational firms from the finance, technology and professional services sectors. Office growth is underpinned by Qatar's investment in world-class infrastructure, including the $36bn Doha Metro and $16bn Hamad International Airport, a global transit hub offering direct flights to more than 180 cities. Faisal Durrani, Partner – Head of Research, Middle East and North Africa, said despite its rapid development, Doha maintains low traffic congestion levels relative to many other global hubs, with ongoing investments in public transportation and smart city solutions preserving this enviable status. "These qualities, combined with its cultural vibrancy, economic ambition and liveability, reinforce Doha's growing status as a forward-looking global city," he added. Highlighting that Qatar's economy continues to demonstrate resilience and stability, underpinned by strong fiscal fundamentals and ongoing diversification efforts; Knight Frank, quoting the International Monetary Fund, said in 2024, real GDP (gross domestic product) growth reached 2%, supported by solid performance in non-hydrocarbon sectors such as tourism, finance, construction and real estate. © Gulf Times Newspaper 2022 Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Santhosh V. Perumal
Zawya
24-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Qatar: Mortgage activity surges by 168% in Q4 2024
Doha, Qatar: Qatar's real estate sector is proving resilient in the face of evolving market conditions. Despite a 5% year-on-year decline in villa and apartment sale prices, prime locations continue to command strong values, driven by demand for premium developments, according to Knight Frank's biannual Qatar Real Estate Market Review. Faisal Durrani, Partner – Head of Research, MENA, said: 'Qatar's housing market has experienced a prolonged period of softening prices over the past year, driven by a combination of interrelated factors. The extensive construction activity leading up to the FIFA 2022 World Cup significantly increased the housing supply. As a result, property values and rental rates have faced downward pressure, albeit some high-end neighbourhoods have continued to enjoy steady demand.' 'Despite this market dynamic, mortgage activity has increased, with Q4 2024 recording 294 transactions valued at QR24.8bn, a 168% jump year-on-year, signalling perhaps opportunistic refinancing activity, with purchasers capitalising on falling interest rates, which last year declined from 6.25% in January to 5.1% in December,' he added. Among villa locations, Abu Hamour recorded the highest sale prices at QR8,587 per square metre, thanks to its smaller unit sizes and strong community appeal. Mid-tier villa locations such as Al Thumama (QR7,500 psm) and Al Kheesa (QR7,000 psm) offer competitive pricing, while Al Wakair (QR5,600 psm) and Al Kharaitiyat (QR5,807 psm) present more affordable options. Apartment sale prices also declined 5% year-on-year, averaging QR12,625 psm. Luxury waterfront developments continue to see high demand, with Qanat Quartier (QR13,977 psm) and The Waterfront (QR14,300 psm) leading the market. Marina District (QR13,600 psm) remains a prime location, while Porto Arabia on The Pearl Island (QR11,834 psm) offers a more affordable alternative within The Pearl. In Qatar's apartment market, luxury residences continue to command stable rental rates, supported by sustained demand for premium living spaces. However, a two-tier market has emerged, with mid-range and budget-friendly apartments facing challenges stemming from oversaturation. The abundance of available units in more affordable locations has intensified competition among landlords, ultimately driving down rental prices, says Knight Frank. Adam Stewart, Partner – Head of Qatar, explained: 'Looking ahead, villa rental rates are expected to stabilise in prime areas, while secondary locations may see further adjustments due to softer demand. Apartment rentals in luxury developments such as The Pearl and West Bay are expected to remain stable, supported by steady occupancy levels.' © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( The Peninsula Newspaper
