Where travel is going — and what it's like to be there.

I'm Chris Dong, a Los Angeles-based travel journalist covering aviation, hotels, destinations, and loyalty for the world's leading publications and brands — always with an eye on where the industry is headed next.

Chris Dong in Antarctica Chris Dong moderating a panel at ILTM

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What’s next in travel & what happens beyond the byline

Hot off the press

Recent stories

Journalist-led storytelling for brands

Opportunities include…

Substack sponsorship
Branded video
Data-backed reports
Consulting & advisory

Brands I've worked with

Visit California
Alaska Airlines
Marriott
The Glenlivet
Gulfstream

Beyond the byline

Events & panels

Previous engagements

Capital One · Moderator
Loyalty Connect 2026
Expedia · Panelist
Explore 2026
ILTM North America · Moderator
PROUD Experiences
Chase Travel · Panelist
Chase Supplier Conference
Travel + Leisure · Panelist
World's Best Summit

Areas of focus

Aviation & airports
New cabin experiences, route launches, airline strategy, airport lounges, and the future of air travel.
Hotels & destinations
Luxury openings, property reviews, destination guides, and brands reshaping hospitality.
Loyalty & rewards
Points strategy, program analysis, credit card partnerships, and maximizing value.
Travel trends
Consumer behavior, booking data, emerging destinations, and what's next for the industry.

Recognition

2026 · Global Advisory Board
→
Food & Wine Global Tastemakers
One of 25 culinary and travel experts worldwide
2025 · Silver · USA Today
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SATW Lowell Thomas Award
Coverage of Diverse Communities
2025 · Bronze · The Wall Street Journal
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SATW Lowell Thomas Award
Short Narrative