Hotel booking portal Agoda is taking the power of artificial intelligence to a whole new level with the unveiling of an innovative hotel discovery feature. This feature makes it easier for travelers to get answers before deciding on their accommodations. The recently introduced Agoda AI travel tool is one of the latest examples of technology built on top of generative AI. Moreover, it has the ability to offer real-time answers, personalized hotel recommendations, and an enhanced property exploration experience via Agoda’s platform.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 10:33:55 +0000

The global travel and tourism industry is undergoing rapid transformation thanks to Artificial Intelligence. AI is reshaping how travel companies manage bookings, customer experiences, distribution systems and operational efficiency. The travel trade stands at the threshold of a new era of digital transformation powered by advanced tourism technology. This technology includes everything from AI-driven automation to predictive analytics and intelligent personalization.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 10:28:43 +0000

Grovy Developers, an award-winning real estate developer in Dubai, has partnered with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s largest hotel franchising companies, to launch Ramada Residences by Wyndham at Dubai Islands, in partnership with USquare as development partner.     The agreement was formally signed at a full-house event attended by senior leadership from all three organisations, including Abhishek Jalan, CEO of Grovy Developers, Dimitris Manikis, President, Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), and Govind Mundra, Head of Development for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, along with Ubaid Ur Rehman Shaikh and Muhammad Umeed, Founders of USquare Luxe Properties. The event saw overwhelming interest from investors and brokers, with attendance exceeding capacity and Expressions of Interest registered on-site—reflecting strong demand for the project even amid evolving global market conditions.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 09:55:22 +0000

Tokyo, once again, is poised to be at the heart of innovations in AI-led tourism thanks to WiT Japan 2026. This event promises to bring to Tokyo the world’s brightest experts in travel technology, hospitality and artificial intelligence for focused discussions on WiT Japan 2026 AI travel technology trends.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 09:47:48 +0000

If you’re a British citizen living in New Zealand and your passport is expiring, you’ve probably already discovered the awkward truth: HM Passport Office’s standard renewal can take up to 10 weeks from overseas, and the UK government’s fast-track service only works if you’re physically in Britain. So what do you do when your passport expires in three weeks and you’ve got a flight booked to Singapore?
at Fri, 08 May 2026 08:17:27 +0000

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) welcomed His Excellency, Ambassador Nick Adams, U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Tourism, for his first major international public address since assuming the role, marking a significant moment for both the United States and the global Travel & Tourism sector. As the first U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Tourism, H.E. Adams’ participation reflected a new era of stronger public-private collaboration and renewed leadership at a pivotal time for global Travel & Tourism.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 07:55:06 +0000

In the spirit of collaboration and care for the community, Emirates Airport Services, Emirates Engineering, dnata4good and several local non-profit organisations have come together to deliver 430 baby strollers to children in need. In a spirited community effort, the Emirates Airport Services team transported the spare airport strollers to the Emirates Engineering Facility and team who upcycled them. Then dnata’s employee-driven initiative - dnata4good, stepped in to identify several local entities to deliver them to, including Hope Amel UAE, Senses and Al Noor. Each organisation expressed their gratitude and shared a different plan for using the strollers, from donating to single mothers in need, to using for emergency transportation for students, to usage on school trips and outings.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 06:50:18 +0000

Visit Orlando, The Official Tourism Association® for Orlando, announced the destination welcomed 76.7 million visitors in 2025, a 1.8% increase over 2024 and the highest visitation total in the destination’s history. The announcement was made at Visit Orlando’s annual National Travel & Tourism Week event at the Orange County Convention Center.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 06:47:57 +0000

Vietnam demonstrated its clear commitment to become a serious SAF leader on Wednesday, as several key government ministries gathered in Da Nang for the country’s first international SAF summit and Asia SAF Association (ASAFA) signed two institutional agreements with state bodies.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 06:44:37 +0000

This summer, Bhaya Cruises invites travellers to experience a more meaningful way to sail with the launch of its Summer 2026 offerings aboard the boutique vessels Bhaya Soul and The Au Co. Designed for discerning travel and lifestyle audiences, these curated journeys prioritise space, stillness, and intentional experiences in the UNESCO-listed waters of Ha Long Bay.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 06:38:49 +0000

Jacada Travel, a leader in positive impact luxury travel, identifies a behavioral shift among high-net-worth individuals in how they approach their trips. Moving away from fragmented bucket-list checklists, travellers are now planning up to a decade of trips at one time. Jacada’s data from the past year confirms a strong trend of multi-trip planning among its client base. Notably, the brand is seeing a compressed planning cycle of sequential trips over an extended period of time: 23% of existing clients are planning multiple itineraries at once.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 06:36:33 +0000

Specialist tour operator Journey Latin America is highlighting Slow Travel in Colombia as one of the most rewarding ways to experience the country’s six regions: the Pacific Coast, Caribbean Coast, Caribbean Islands, the Llanos wetlands, Andes and Amazon. Here, landscapes, culture and communities await discovery, with people genuinely at the heart of every journey - each offering their own way of saying “Welcome to the country of beauty.” With travellers increasingly seeking immersive, unhurried journeys, Colombia’s river routes, coffee fincas and rural heartlands provide the perfect setting for deeper connection and discovery.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 06:34:16 +0000

Transformative luxury resort Patina Maldives, Fari Islands has reaffirmed its commitment to intelligent, sustainable wellness through a Maldives-first collaboration with British nutri-cosmeceutical skincare brand OSKIA. The partnership introduces an exclusive menu of high-tech facials alongside a selection of full-body treatments using OSKIA’s clinically proven formulas, delivering a deeply restorative experience powered by the finest natural and bio-tech ingredients.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 06:32:54 +0000

Beaches Resorts has officially opened the doors to Treasure Beach Village at Beaches Turks and Caicos, a US $150 million expansion on the west end of the resort’s property. Set along the world-renowned Grace Bay Beach, the new oceanfront village adds a new dimension to the Beaches Turks and Caicos experience with 101 multi-bedroom suites and an all-new collection of dining concepts and experiences that place time together at the heart of every stay. Beaches Resorts was voted World’s Leading All-Inclusive Family Resort Brand 2025 and Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Family Resort 2025 at last year’s World Travel Awards ceremony.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 06:03:25 +0000

Ahãma Living, on the lesser known Turkish Riviera of Fethiye, opens its doors for its first full season.  The first of its kind, Ahãma is a sanctuary of calm, inspiring connection, reflection and awe. Hidden by the blanket of pine forest, Ahãma Living is perched on the Fethiye Günlüklü Bay, offering blissful seclusion, with only charming fishing villages as neighbours.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 06:00:26 +0000

This spring, The Ritz-Carlton invites guests to experience one of the world’s most exhilarating sporting events as part of its global partnership with the U.S. SailGP Team. Timed to the upcoming New York Sail Grand Prix on May 30-31, The Ritz-Carlton is unveiling exclusive race weekend experiences at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad and The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, offering guests premier access to one of the fastest emerging global sporting championships.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 05:58:08 +0000

One year on from publishing its aspirational Flying Towards Net Zero roadmap, Wizz Air, the leading carrier in Central and Eastern Europe, is sharing new insights from a non-representative passenger survey¹ exploring attitudes to air travel, climate change and the aviation sector’s transition. Aviation remains a critical driver of connectivity and economic activity across Europe, supporting around 86.5 million jobs globally and contributing approximately 3.9% of global GDP². It underpins tourism, trade and regional development. As the sector moves toward long term decarbonisation, balancing the need for accessible mobility with meaningful emissions reductions remains a defining challenge.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 05:55:52 +0000

City Express by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of City Express by Marriott Shin-Imamiya and City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South, marking the brand’s highly anticipated debut in the Asia Pacific region. The simultaneous launch of both properties introduces the brand’s signature value proposition to Osaka, a city renowned for its culinary innovation, cultural energy, and vibrant urban character.
at Fri, 08 May 2026 05:53:51 +0000

Global lifestyle hospitality leader Kerten Hospitality has assumed operations of Ray Hotel by Cloud 7, a contemporary lifestyle destination on the Arabian Gulf in Mangaf. The project marks the next chapter in Kerten Hospitality’s growth in Kuwait, where the group has been operational since 2021 with The House Hotel Al Khiran.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 11:47:08 +0000

The Emirates Group today released its 2025-26 Annual Report, achieving new record profit, revenue, and cash balance levels, despite a disruptive and challenging 12th month in its financial year. Emirates is the world’s most profitable airline in the 2025-26 reporting period.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 11:37:02 +0000

Prachoom Tantiprasertsuk, Vice President – Operations (Central & Southern Thailand) and Government & Business Relations at Dusit International, and President of the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA), has received the prestigious Thailand Meetings Leadership Award at the inaugural Thailand MICE Legacy Awards 2026, organised by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). Presented during MICE Day 2026 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok on 29 April 2026, the award recognises individuals who have played a significant role in advancing Thailand’s meetings sector and strengthening the country’s position as a leading international MICE destination.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 11:35:05 +0000

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is hosting a unique Leadership Cruise on Egypt’s Suez Canal, one of the world’s most remarkable symbols of global trade. Attended by over 300 leaders from the public and private sectors, the WTTC Leadership Cruise is supported by the Egyptian Government, with sponsors including the Antonio Lefebvre Foundation, Visit Egypt, Crystal Cruises, Coral Travel Group and luxury tour specialist Abercrombie & Kent.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 11:33:00 +0000

World Travel Awards (WTA) has announced that the paradise nation of the Maldives will host industry leaders from across Asia, Oceania and the Indian Ocean for a blockbuster VIP Gala Ceremony to celebrate the best in travel and tourism. The flagship event will take place at CROSSROADS Maldives on World Tourism Day, 27 September 2026.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 11:28:40 +0000

World Travel Awards (WTA) has announced that the paradise nation of the Maldives will host industry leaders from across Asia, Oceania and the Indian Ocean for a blockbuster VIP Gala Ceremony to celebrate the best in travel and tourism. The flagship event will take place at CROSSROADS Maldives on World Tourism Day, 27 September 2026.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 11:28:17 +0000

A leading AI-powered travel booking startup named Mindtrip announced the launch of its all-inclusive flight booking experience powered by conversational artificial intelligence, created in collaboration with Sabre and PayPal. The Agentic AI flight booking system is designed to transform how travelers seamlessly book and manage their flights using advanced technology.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 10:16:04 +0000

Practical guidance to plan productive city hours between hotel check-out and scheduled transport, focusing on transfers, luggage and timing.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 08:53:12 +0000

In a world where luxury is increasingly defined by time, space, and meaningful connection, get ready to embrace a more unhurried pace of island living at JA Manafaru. With two exceptional long-stay offers, ‘Stay 7 Nights, Pay for 5’ and the ‘Maldives Private Residence Escape’, this is a chance to linger longer, explore deeper, and experience the Maldives in a much more personal and intentional way. Tucked away in the northernmost reaches of the Maldives’ Haa Alifu Atoll, JA Manafaru offers a rare sense of seclusion paired with world-class hospitality. This private island sanctuary blends authentic Maldivian charm with refined luxury, where days unfold across powder-soft beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and immersive cultural experiences. Complete with spacious villas, expansive private residences, and a focus on wellbeing, dining, and discovery, the resort is the perfect setting for travellers seeking a deeper, more meaningful sojourn.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 06:48:50 +0000

AirAsia X (AirAsia) has ordered 150 Airbus A220 aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines, with the first of these aircraft to be delivered starting in 2028. Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, will provide AirAsia with engine maintenance through a 12-year EngineWise® Comprehensive service agreement.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 05:42:44 +0000

Choice Hotels International, Inc, one of the world’s largest lodging franchisors, today opened its 70th Annual Convention, bringing together thousands of franchise owners, operators, vendors and industry collaborators for three days centered on the theme of “Making More Possible” for its owners and operators—helping them capture new demand, enhance performance and build long-term success.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 05:40:47 +0000

This season, travelers seeking unique experiences exclusive to Miami Beach will find a selection of curated offerings that bring culture, cuisine, design and world-class events to the famous shores of the celebrated destination. From buzzy restaurant openings along Ocean Drive to immersive art beneath the ocean’s surface, Miami Beach is redefining what it means to experience a coastal destination that delivers modern luxury to discerning visitors.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 05:38:07 +0000

Holland America Line is now accepting bookings for Oosterdam’s first collection of voyages following its debut as the inaugural ship to undergo Holland America Evolution, the cruise line’s largest fleet investment in its 153‑year history. Spanning eight itineraries and 15 departure dates, the new sailings give guests the earliest opportunity to experience Oosterdam’s onboard enhancements, paired with destination-rich itineraries across Europe, the Caribbean and North America. Oosterdam’s return to service marks the first chapter of Holland America Evolution, a multiyear modernization designed to bring the best of the fleet’s Pinnacle Class to more ships. Following the ship’s transformation, Oosterdam introduces new stateroom and suite categories created to reflect how guests travel today, while expanding access to signature venues.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 05:35:02 +0000

Tourvest Accommodation has launched Tulia, a new safari brand designed to deliver high-quality, experience-led travel at a more accessible price point, alongside the acquisition of the Wild Frontiers Uganda properties and activities business. The move strengthens Tourvest’s presence in East Africa and expands its portfolio across three distinct offerings: Lemala Camps and Lodges, Adrift and now Tulia — each serving different traveller needs across safari and adventure experiences.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 05:33:43 +0000

As the United States prepares to mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence on 4 July 1776, Journeyscape, which specialises in tailor‑made holidays across all of North America is delighted to partner alongside Destination DC to introduce a collection of new Washington, DC experiences that invite travellers to explore the capital through art, food, culture and community. Rather than focusing solely on traditional historic narratives, these experiences highlight the diverse voices, neighbourhoods and stories that shape the city today.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 05:31:34 +0000

It’s incredibly exciting to see the number of new safaris lodges opening across Africa over the next few months. Zambia in particular is seeing some very exciting new developments. A number of new properties are set to launch this year, as the travel trade builds anticipation at the recent OurAfrica.Travel digital trade show, at We Are Africa in Cape Town this week and at Indaba in Durban next week. New openings include:
at Thu, 07 May 2026 05:29:18 +0000

W Maldives unveils The Wavemaker Edit, a new, ongoing series of curated collaborations with global talents, designed to bring fresh energy, creative exchange, and unexpected experiences to the island escape. Editorial in spirit and immersive by design, the series sets the stage for a dynamic cultural rhythm, where each chapter introduces a new perspective, across mixology, wellness, cuisine, music, and beyond. From June 3 to 14, 2026, the first edition of The Wavemaker Edit unfolds through two distinct yet complementary chapters—Island Alchemy and The Restore Ritual—offering guests a seamless journey between high-energy moments and mindful escape, and redefining Maldives luxury resort experiences.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 05:27:01 +0000

Viking® (www.viking.com) announced that its 2028–2029 expedition voyages are now open for booking, featuring newly released departure dates across the company’s most popular itineraries in the Arctic, Antarctica and the Great Lakes. Designed for immersive exploration in some of the world’s most remote regions, the expanded offerings include additional sailings of Viking’s epic Longitudinal World Cruises, which journey between the Great Lakes and Antarctica, as well as the unique Into the Antarctic Circle itinerary, offering guests the rare opportunity to cross the 66°33′ line of latitude into the Antarctic Circle—an honoured milestone among polar explorers.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 05:25:18 +0000

Untravelled Paths, the specialist travel company renowned for crafting extraordinary journeys to the world’s most remarkable destinations, today announces the launch of its Flight Cancellation Protection policy, a direct and meaningful response to the growing uncertainty gripping the aviation industry as a result of the ongoing Middle East conflict and its impact on global fuel supplies.
at Thu, 07 May 2026 05:23:36 +0000

Travelers who use artificial intelligence for trip planning and in‑destination support are emerging as the industry’s most valuable customer segment, according to new research from Phocuswright.  The findings show that AI‑using travelers take more trips, spend significantly more per year and engage more deeply with digital travel tools than those who have not adopted AI. Phocuswright’s new report, The AI Surge: Travel’s Fastest Behavioral Shift in a Decade, reveals that AI travelers have a median household income of $129,200 compared to $104,000 for nonusers, and take 3.8 leisure trips per year versus 2.9 among nonusers. They also spend $4,500 annually on leisure travel, far outpacing the $3,000 spent by those who do not use AI.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 14:09:32 +0000

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is pleased to welcome Switzerland Tourism (ST) as a Destination Partner. Switzerland Tourism is the national destination marketing organisation responsible for promoting Switzerland as a travel destination. Working in partnership with the tourism industry and the public sector, it positions Switzerland worldwide as a high-quality, sustainable and year-round destination for leisure and business travel.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 14:07:19 +0000

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is pleased to welcome Barceló as a Global Member. Founded in Mallorca in 1931, Barceló Group has grown into one of the world’s leading hospitality companies, with a presence across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East. The Group operates a diverse portfolio of 288 hotels under four distinct brands, ranging from luxury boutique properties to large-scale resorts and urban hotels, reflecting its broad reach across global travel markets.
at Wed, 06 May 2026 13:51:48 +0000