Continuing with our check-in with reporters on their top stories of the summer – and what we can expect this fall.

This week, host Rebecca Tobin talks with hospitality editor Christina Jelski, who provides an update on hotel news: The demand picture, whether Canadians are returning to the U.S., Mexico’s struggles and more.

Then, cruise editor Teri West talks about new directions in rate and the launch of the third Icon-class ship. 

And river cruise and tours editor Brinley Hineman returns to recap this summer’s low-water levels for river cruising.

These conversations were recorded throughout September and have been edited for length and clarity.

Episode sponsor: 

This episode was sponsored by Travel Insured International https://www.travelinsured.com

Stay on at the end of the Folo for a sponsored interview with Christine Peruccio, Travel Insured's AVP of sales and account management support, and Mary Pat Sullivan, the executive vice president of marketing and brand partnerships for Northstar Travel Group.

Related links: 

U.S. hotel forecast gets another bump after 'record' room sales https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Hotel-News/US-hotels-performing-well-in-2026-reforecast-costar-tourism-economics

How AI data centers are fueling the U.S. hospitality boom https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Hotel-News/Strong-year-US-hotels-with-AI-data-center-building-boom

Checking in column: Tourism is taking a stand in the U.S.-Canada feud https://www.travelweekly.com/Christina-Jelski/Tourism-industry-taking-a-stand-in-U-S-Canada-feud

The Mexican sargassum surge sparks new strategies and investments https://www.travelweekly.com/Mexico-Travel/Sargassum-surge-sparks-new-strategies-and-investments

Cruise sellers are onboard with NCL's pricing strategy https://www.travelweekly.com/Cruise-Travel/Cruise-sellers-on-board-with-NCL-change-pricing-strategy

Cruising on Royal Caribbean's newest Icon class ship https://www.travelweekly.com/Cruise-Travel/Cruising-on-Royal-Caribbean-new-Legend-of-the-Seas

Low water, high stakes: River lines take a hit to satisfy guests https://www.travelweekly.com/River-Cruising/River-cruise-lines-swallow-costs-to-move-guests