What the TikTok ban means for the travel industry, Robert De Niro shares details of his upcoming Nobu hotel in Barbuda, and six new airport megaprojects take flight. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.
How the potential TikTok ban could impact travel
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
With more than 170 million American users, TikTok has become a powerful marketing tool in the U.S. But that could all change if the country’s TikTok ban goes into effect on January 19th, which would prevent new downloads and updates and pose a significant disruption to creators and businesses, including some in the travel industry whose social media strategies drive billions in annual bookings, according to Skift. Brands like Booking.com, Expedia, Disney Parks, and Ryanair have embraced the platform to market to through TikTok’s AI-powered algorithm, each amassing more than a million followers. A ban would force companies to shift tactics, target consumers outside the U.S., and explore other platforms like Instagram, which is reportedly working to help influencers better monetize travel content.
Robert De Niro brings a Nobu hotel to the Caribbean
Beachfront dining at Nobu Barbuda; photo courtesy of Nobu Barbuda
Actor Robert De Niro, who cofounded Nobu Hospitality alongside chef Nobu Matsuhisa and film producer Meir Teper, is setting his sights on Barbuda for his latest venture. The New York Times recently spoke with De Niro about the upcoming Nobu Beach Inn, which will rise on the site of the former K Club, next to the existing Nobu Barbuda restaurant that debuted in 2020. This project holds special significance for the actor, as it marks the only Nobu hotel in which he has a direct ownership stake through Paradise Found Barbuda LLC, an entity he cofounded. The property will feature 36 bedrooms, 17 guest bungalows, and 25 privately owned beach villas that owners can rent out. And when it opens later this year, visitors might just spot De Niro himself—much like they would at the Greenwich Hotel in New York where he’s also a partner.
New outdoor travel retreats address depression
Mind Over Mountains takes groups on hikes across Chatsworth Estate, pictured; photo courtesy of Chatsworth Estate
For those struggling with grief or depression, opening up to family or a therapist can feel daunting. Meanwhile, wellness retreats centered on self-care activities like yoga or forest bathing can feel isolating. To bridge the gap, new travel retreats are emerging that blend mental health support with outdoor activities, offering a welcoming space for anyone looking to improve their wellbeing—diagnosis or not, BBC reports. Organizations like Mind Over Mountains and Blackdog Outdoors foster supportive experiences during hikes and outdoor adventures, where open conversations about emotions and challenges are encouraged. After participating in several such hikes, reporter Keridwen Cornelius noted, “the conversations feel connecting and the guides are supportive, but our main group therapist is the great outdoors.”
Billion-dollar airport projects prepare for takeoff
A view of Newark Liberty International Airport’s new Terminal B; rendering courtesy of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
Major airport projects exceeding $1 billion are set to make significant progress across the U.S. this year, Construction Dive reports. Among them is John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Ohio, which recently broke ground on a $2 billion transformation, including a completely new terminal. Colorado-based Hensel Phelps will lead construction on the million-square-foot facility, designed to accommodate more than 13 million passengers annually. Tampa International Airport is also gearing up for expansion, with its first new airside terminal in nearly two decades (Airside D) featuring 16 gates, two airline lounges, and additional retail and dining options. Meanwhile, Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey is preparing for a much-needed refresh, modernizing infrastructure that dates back to the 1970s.
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Submit your nomination to HDAC’s 2025 Awards of Excellence
HDAC board members with Groom Guy cofounders Matthew Sears and Darius Davie (center) at the 21st annual HD Awards ceremony; photo by PWP Studio
Nominations are now open for the Hospitality Diversity Action Council’s (HDAC) fifth annual Awards of Excellence. The program recognizes outstanding contributions to the hospitality industry by honoring individuals and companies who are driving progress through the promotion of diversity, inclusion, and equity. Hospitality professionals are encouraged to nominate themselves or others. The winner, selected by current HDAC board members, will be honored at the 21st annual HD Awards on May 6th at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino during HD Expo + Conference. Submit to the 2025 Awards of Excellence by Friday, March 14th!
