Yesterday, Kings Cross Station came alive as the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority hosted an exciting one-day activation that tested both geography knowledge and dart-throwing skills. A total of 276 people took part, stepping up to the challenge and aiming to land three darts on the Kingdom of Bahrain.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 15:53:37 +0000

In this special Breaking Travel News feature, we got to sit down with HSMAI Middle East’s three newly crowned Rockstars, Nawfal Mbamba, Kuda Mukonoweshuro, and Hasan Khan. Each brings a distinctive approach to innovation, from elevating product storytelling and unlocking demand in tertiary markets to reshaping F and B performance through real time intelligence. Together they represent a new generation of commercial leaders whose ideas are already influencing how hotels think, operate, and grow. Their insights reveal the challenges they set out to solve, the inspiration behind their winning concepts, and the impact their work is making across the region’s hospitality landscape. Read on as they take us inside their award winning pitches and share the lessons, breakthroughs, and ambitions shaping their journey.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:03:21 +0000

Airbus in partnership with Air France, Delta Air Lines, French bee, and Virgin Atlantic, and operations partners, AirNav Ireland, DSNA, EUROCONTROL and NATS, has successfully completed a new phase of trials for Airbus’ fello’fly project. Fello’fly takes inspiration from migrating geese and showcases the power of collaboration by pairing flights to reduce fuel consumption. With this flying technique, the first aircraft creates an uplift that drives fuel efficiency for the following aircraft, called ‘wake energy retrieval’. Once operational, wake energy retrieval has the potential to make fuel savings of up to 5% on long-haul flights.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:01:11 +0000

Canes & Tales at Waldorf Astoria Osaka announces the first program of guest shifts, seminars, cultural exchanges and more as part of The Essence Series. Conceptualized by Hilton luxury brands as an annual event, The Essence Series was designed as a way to foster connection and creativity within the bar community in key cities across Asia-Pacific. Over several days within the host city, members of the trade are invited to a series of immersive events featuring top talent from Hilton bars as well as the wider region. With masterclasses, panel discussions, cultural exchanges and world class guest shifts, these events aim to celebrate the spirit of a city through bar culture.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:58:39 +0000

Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline, and Sotheby’s, the global destination for art and luxury announce a strategic partnership which will see Etihad become the Presenting Partner for Sotheby’s once-in-a-lifetime two-part exhibition, Icons: Back to Madison. The exhibition brings together some of the most iconic works ever sold under Sotheby’s banner, offering a rare opportunity to experience masterpieces spanning multiple centuries and collecting categories.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:29:34 +0000

Emirates is ending 2025 on a sky-high note with another 5 global accolades won, this time at the 32nd annual World Travel Awards, held in Bahrain. Adding to its impressive portfolio of more than 20 accolades received in 2025, the latest titles celebrate Emirates as a leading airline brand, as well as recognising its multi award-winning inflight entertainment system ice, more honours for Emirates First Class onboard experience and First Class Lounges, and another nod to Emirates Skywards – as the World’s Leading Airline Rewards Programme 2025.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:25:05 +0000

Hilton Arcadia Los Angeles, a 173-room contemporary retreat at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, is officially open, expanding Hilton’s footprint in Southern California and masterfully hosting guests with expertise and care. Located steps from Santa Anita Park and the Los Angeles County Arboretum and minutes from the Rose Bowl and Pasadena’s cultural attractions, the hotel debuts contemporary guest rooms and suites, multiple world-class dining venues—including Arcadia’s only rooftop bar—and a robust collection of energizing amenities and iconic gathering spaces. The property is managed by Azul Hospitality Group, a San Diego-based hospitality management platform that provides an innovative approach to maximizing performance.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:22:43 +0000

Hilton proudly announces the debut of Slackline Moab, Outset Collection by Hilton, an inspired new property designed for explorers, outdoor enthusiasts and modern nomads. Accepting reservations for stays starting today, this 138-room retreat is the perfect basecamp for discovery nearby Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. “Slackline Moab was created for travelers who feel most alive outdoors, and we’re excited to welcome guests to their new basecamp in red rock country,” said Rebecca Cavallaro, general manager. “From trail-ready amenities to comfortable spaces for unwinding, we’ve designed every detail to help guests make the most of their Moab adventure.”
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:19:30 +0000

Hilton announces the opening of York Medellin, Curio Collection by Hilton, marking the lifestyle brand’s debut in Colombia’s vibrant second-largest city. The hotel is the 27th Hilton property in Colombia and the third Curio Collection by Hilton in the country, following Cartagena and Bogota. Hilton’s lifestyle brands are expecting unstoppable growth in the Caribbean and Latin America with nearly 40 open hotels and plans to welcome nearly 40 properties, offering travelers immersive, one-of-a-kind experiences in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:13:56 +0000

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel platform teamed up with Shaun White, legendary snowboarder and founder of The Snow League, to welcome the league’s first event to China, its second event of the league’s inaugural season. As the official hotel and loyalty partner of The Snow League, Marriott Bonvoy further expanded its offerings in the sports and outdoor sector, following a successful debut in March 2025 in Aspen, Colorado, providing members with exclusive access to immersive winter adventures.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:10:05 +0000

Argentine hotel Las Balsas is proud to announce it is the recipient of the Sustainability Trophy 2026 and revieved the award during the 2025 Relais & Châteaux Rendez-Vous event held at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. The award was presented to the hotel’s General Manager Sebastián Tuvio, by Laurent Gardinier, President of Relais & Châteaux, and Anthony Torkington, CEO of Relais & Château
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:08:18 +0000

Hotel Arts Barcelona has announced a landmark partnership with FC Barcelona, one of the world’s most celebrated football clubs and a symbol of Catalan pride, unveiling the “FC Barcelona Match Experience” stay package. The collaboration includes seats in the coveted Players’ Zone at Spotify Camp Nou, Barça’s home stadium. Combining the thrill of elite football with the sophistication of a stay at Hotel Arts Barcelona, the experience grants guests privileged access to the Players’ Zone, an area typically reserved for players and their closest companions, located directly behind or beside the team benches. From here, guests enjoy unmatched proximity to the squad and an exceptional view of the pitch. The vantage point also offers unique perspectives of the Players’ Tunnel and post-match interview area, placing fans at the very heart of the action.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:05:52 +0000

Specialist tour operator Journeyscape, in partnership with Destination Canada, has unveiled its definitive ranking of the most inspiring Canadian national parks to explore in 2026. The list compares parks using data on wildlife diversity, Instagram popularity, visitor reviews, accessibility, and park size - helping visitors to plan for unforgettable adventures.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:03:30 +0000

Lisbon has been named as Europe’s Best MICE Destination in 2025 at the 6th edition of the World MICE Awards, announced in Sakhir, Bahrain. The city once again stands out among the leading international destinations for congresses, meetings, and corporate events. This distinction, awarded for the third time, highlights Lisbon’s performance in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segment, which has gained increasing economic relevance and international visibility. The combination of efficient accessibility, hotel capacity, modern facilities, and a diverse cultural offer has contributed to consolidating Lisbon’s appeal.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:01:04 +0000

Wizz Air today announces a new route connecting London Gatwick with Valencia, further expanding the airline’s connections from the UK to Spain. The route is the sixth new Spanish route Wizz Air will launch in 2026, joining recently announced connections between London Luton and Bilbao, Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia and Seville, reiterating Wizz Air’s position as a key provider of low-cost travel to Spain.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 07:58:48 +0000

Phocuswright today released Travel Forward: Data, Insights & Trends for 2026, sponsored by Travel Guard, its annual year-end and year-ahead report that provides a clear, data-driven view of the $1.67 trillion global travel market. The free report brings together the company’s most insightful analysis and presents it through interactive charts and visuals that reveal the forces shaping the year ahead. The global travel industry enters 2026 with steady momentum. Total gross bookings are projected to reach $1.67 trillion as international demand strengthens and travelers continue to prioritize experiences despite economic and geopolitical pressures. Travel and tourism is expected to generate more than $11.7 trillion toward global GDP this year and support nearly 371 million jobs, underscoring the sector’s enduring resilience even as growth patterns vary by region.
at Fri, 12 Dec 2025 07:56:00 +0000

Aloft Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands, recently announced the opening of Aloft Shanghai Hongqiao. Nestled in the core of the West Hongqiao Business District, the new hotel neighbors the National Exhibition and Convention Center and the Hongqiao transportation hub. Offering a vibrant, social, and stylish stay for modern explorers, Aloft Shanghai Hongqiao features energetic public spaces, tech-savvy rooms, and a design-driven experience that’s anything but ordinary.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:49:56 +0000

Turkish Airlines has opened its first-ever European lounge at Edinburgh Airport, aside from the world-famous one at its Istanbul hub, bringing another dimension of its world-renowned hospitality to travellers in Scotland. The new lounge further elevates Edinburgh’s premium travel offering while reinforcing the airport’s growing role as an international gateway. Türkiye’s flag carrier, which flies to more countries than any other, hosted a celebratory event at Edinburgh International Airport on 10 December to mark the opening of its eighth lounge outside of Türkiye. Turkish Airlines continues to bring scaled-down slices of its five-star Lounge in İstanbul to its international gateways to maintain a seamless and luxurious experience.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:24:09 +0000

Leveraging its existing collaboration with CarbonClick*, Etihad Airways has introduced a new enhancement to its Etihad for Business (EYB) platform, enabling corporate clients to redeem EYB credits for carbon-offsets directly through the Etihad for Business portal.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:22:11 +0000

Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi celebrated its 15th anniversary on December 3, 2025, in the presence of Charles Leclerc, Scuderia Ferrari HP Formula 1 Driver, Ferrari executives including Maria Carla Liuni, Ferrari’s Chief Brand Officer, Julien Kauffmann, CEO of Miral Experiences, tier 1 media outlets, and the park’s dedicated annual pass holders and VIP guests. The milestone event brought together partners, fans and long-time supporters to honor 15 years of record-breaking rides, innovation and unforgettable family experiences under the park’s iconic red roof.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 10:44:36 +0000

IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a management agreement with Emproy Hospitality LLP, for the development of Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala. Slated to open in 2027, the deal strengthens IHG’s presence in the essentials category and underscores its continued expansion across India’s fast-growing leisure destinations. Nestled in the lush, year-round greenery of Lonavala, the new Holiday Inn Resort will offer travelers a scenic getaway. Its prime location on the NH-48 Expressway ensures excellent visibility and access, positioning it as the corridor’s next premier destination. Embodying the ethos of the trusted Holiday Inn brand, beloved for its consistent comfort and guest-focused innovation, Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala will feature 100 well-appointed rooms, three distinct dining options, and recreational facilities including a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:55:36 +0000

It may not snow in Queensland in December, but underwater, the Great Barrier Reef is putting on its own kind of snowfall in a dazzling underwater exhibition of new life. Giant clams, molluscs and gastropods joined the Great Barrier Reef’s headline event, the annual synchronised coral spawning, across much of the 2600km/1615 miles length of the Reef last night (10 December 2025), putting on a jaw-dropping show after some corals performed a curtain raiser in November. This underwater snowstorm of coral sperm and eggs showcases one of the world’s most visually incredible natural phenomena.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:52:01 +0000

As we enter into the new year, many will be looking to beat the January blues with a wellness escape, prioritising relaxation and rejuvenation to begin 2026. Expedia’s Unpack 2026 highlights that 91% of travellers are seeking trips centred on relaxation, reading and quality time with loved ones. This evolution reflects a broader shift in which travellers are choosing to step away from a hyperconnected world and reconnect with the people they care about, seeking shared experiences over constant digital engagement. This is evident in the way travellers are actively pursuing mindful breaks from daily demands, whether through the therapeutic sound of the sea, the grounding presence of nature or the restorative atmosphere of a spa.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:47:33 +0000

The award-winning team behind one of Argyll’s most iconic coastal hotels has announced plans to open a new cafe overlooking Castle Stalker and Loch Linnhe in early 2026. The Pierhouse Hotel at Port Appin is now leading the refurbishment of the former Castle Stalker View Cafe on the A828 between Ballachulish and Connel.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:45:49 +0000

The five-star resort, based in Limassol Cyprus, joins an exclusive lineup of winning properties which includes some of the world’s finest venues for global meetings, incentives, conferences and events. Voted for by MICE professionals, media and consumers, the award recognises City of Dreams’ commitment to excellence in this field. Grant Johnson, property general manager at City of Dreams, Mediterranean commented: “What an honour it is to be recognised by the World MICE Awards as Cyprus’ leading MICE Hotel
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:43:53 +0000

The Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) today shared the leading insights emerging from the 2025 Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF), which recently took place in Barbados. CHTA also announced that CHIEF 2026 will be held November 16–18, 2026, running concurrently with Taste of the Caribbean. The annual event brought together hotel executives, policy makers and tourism partners from across the region to examine the strategies reshaping Caribbean hospitality and the operational shifts required for long-term resilience and competitiveness.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:38:57 +0000

Regent Seven Seas Cruises®, the world’s leading ultra-luxury cruise line, celebrated a momentous milestone in Seven Seas Prestige’s™ construction journey as the ship floated from dry dock on 27 November, 2025. The first new ship class for Regent in 10 years, Seven Seas Prestige will usher in a new legacy for ultra-luxury cruising. “Seven Seas Prestige touching water for the first time marks an extraordinary moment for Regent Seven Seas Cruises, representing the culmination of years of planning and collaboration with our long-standing partners at Fincantieri,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “The overwhelming response to this vessel affirms that discerning travelers recognize something truly exceptional is on the horizon; emphasized by the ship’s launch day which became our biggest single booking day for a new ship in our history. From the unprecedented Skyview Regent Suite to every thoughtfully designed detail, Seven Seas Prestige embodies our dedication to redefining ultra-luxury travel.”
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:35:40 +0000

Captain’s Choice is known for its carefully researched and flawlessly organised journeys. Several upcoming itineraries in 2026 will be led by expert guides whose insight brings each destination to life, from wine connoisseurs and rally car champions to cultural historians. In February 2026, escape the winter on Captain’s Choice’s recreation of the legendary Kangaroo Route from Sydney to London. Inspired by the original 1947 Qantas journey, this modern adventure combines comfort and discovery aboard a privately chartered Qantas Airbus A330. Travellers are joined by aviation expert and retired Qantas Captain Greg Fitzgerald as well as cultural historian Kenneth Park, an experienced tour guide and the former Curator of Collections at Wesley College Melbourne, whose knowledge and stories bring each stop, from Singapore to Italy, to life.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:31:54 +0000

WorldTicket by GO7, which gives travel agents access to 150+ airline partners through its W2 ticket stock, has today gone live in IATA’s Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) in Armenia. This enables IATA-accredited travel agents in the country to sell, issue, and settle W2 tickets in Armenian dram through their existing BSP setup – with instant ticketing and no additional configuration.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:29:25 +0000

Protect Group, a leader in ancillary travel products, has today announced a strategic agreement with Sunrise Airways. This partnership now offers the airline’s passengers a simple and reliable way to secure refunds should they not be able to travel. Going forward, Sunrise Airways customers can book their flights with greater peace of mind, knowing they are protected against any unforeseen events thanks to Protect Group’s flagship service, Refund Protect. This will allow all travellers to make their tickets fully refundable for the first time if they are unable to travel. An upgrade that was previously unavailable.
at Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:26:01 +0000

Etihad won three major World Travel Awards: World’s Leading Airline for Customer Experience, World’s Leading Economy Class, and World’s Leading Airline Business Class Lounge for its Premium Lounge at Zayed International Airport. Overall, the airline was nominated in 13 categories, highlighting its key role in promoting Abu Dhabi tourism globally.
at Wed, 10 Dec 2025 20:13:58 +0000

Jumeirah, a global leader in luxury hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, today announced a landmark partnership – The Maltese Falcon, a Jumeirah Privé Experience. The partnership introduces one of the world’s most celebrated sailing superyachts into the Jumeirah Privé collection, marking the brand’s strategic entry into luxury yachting. The Maltese Falcon experience will be the second offering alongside Jumeirah Thanda Island in the Jumeirah Privé portfolio, which was established to create a curated collection of escapes that combine ultimate privacy and exclusivity with the world-class service and amenities of the brand. Through this partnership, Jumeirah will infuse the onboard experience with the same distinctive and purposeful approach that has defined its properties globally. From signature culinary experiences to wellness expertise and the anticipatory service for which the brand is renowned, every element will be curated to deliver the essence of Jumeirah’s warm and generous hospitality at sea.
at Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:33:19 +0000

Airports teach you two things fast, time moves quickly and lines slow everything. A smooth rental saves the first hour of a trip. It also lowers stress for the week ahead. The right plan turns keys in minutes, not an afternoon.
at Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:33:06 +0000

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has opened the highly anticipated Wyndham Grand Udaipur Fatehsagar Lake, marking the arrival of a breathtaking new landmark in the heart of Rajasthan. Nestled against the majestic Aravalli mountains and set within a sprawling 26-acre estate just moments from Fatehsagar Lake, the resort joins a curated portfolio of 90 Wyndham Grand hotels in sought-after destinations around the world, offering an ideal setting for weddings, celebrations and luxurious stays.
at Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:31:08 +0000

As Americans set their intentions for the new year, a recent survey¹ from hospitality leader Marriott Bonvoy® reveals that 91% of Americans plan to travel in 2026, and nearly half (49%) say they want to travel more than they did in 2025. The findings reflect a broader cultural trend toward moments that carry lasting meaning. A majority may be swapping shopping carts for suitcases in the new year, with two-thirds (67%) saying they’re prioritizing experiences such as travel over material purchases in 2026.
at Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:29:05 +0000

The Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami – the private Atlantic Ocean coastline escape located just minutes from the vibrant energy of Miami – officially reopens its doors today, debuting a striking $100 million transformation, ushering in a bold new era of seaside glamour, where modern coastal sophistication meets timeless elegance. This intimate resort haven is set across seventeen acres of pristine beachfront and blends the oasis of Key Biscayne’s island lifestyle with the fashionable energy of Miami. Guests feel an immediate connection to the sea through the newly refashioned open-air architecture, uninterrupted ocean views, and a palette of sun-washed island tones and natural textures. Led by the global luxury hospitality developers Gencom and acclaimed design studios Hart Howerton, DesignAgency, and Chapi Chapo Design, the inspiring transformation marks the resort’s first comprehensive renewal in nearly twenty-five years, revitalizing every corner of its secluded setting.
at Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:27:26 +0000

Hyatt Hotels Corporation today announced World of Hyatt members can discover 15 luxury safari escapes across East Africa with Asilia Africa on Hyatt’s booking channels through Mr & Mrs Smith. This will offer members access to some of the region’s most iconic landscapes from safari camps that contribute to community-led conservation efforts across Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. “Asilia has shaped what luxury safari travel looks like, blending thoughtful design, warm, genuine hospitality, and a deep love and respect for wild places,” said Laurie Blair, senior vice president, global marketing and loyalty, Hyatt. “We know affluent travelers are increasingly seeking journeys with meaningful, measurable impact. Asilia’s approach combines outstanding safari experiences with long-term investment in the people and ecosystems that are designed to help keep these landscapes viable. That’s why we’re delighted to welcome Asilia to World of Hyatt through Mr & Mrs Smith, connecting members to experiences that inspire adventure, reflection, and connection, while making it even more rewarding.”
at Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:24:50 +0000

Hyatt Hotels Corporation have announced the reopening of Park Hyatt Tokyo following a 19-month restoration, marking the most comprehensive renewal in the landmark’s 30-year history. The project celebrates the enduring legacy of Asia’s first Park Hyatt hotel – an iconic property that has shaped global perceptions of Tokyo’s luxury hospitality since opening in 1994 – while redefining the luxury hotel for today’s travelers.
at Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:20:24 +0000

InterContinental, the world’s first and largest luxury hotel brand, is opening new doors to a world of fascination on The Red Sea. Advancing the brand’s pioneering outlook and reinforcing IHG Hotels & Resorts’ global commitment to growing a leading luxury and lifestyle portfolio, InterContinental The Red Sea Resort is among the first to open on Shura Island – a destination which, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 ambitions, is setting a new global benchmark in luxury tourism. The 210-room resort, set within pristine waters, vibrant coral reefs, and protected marine ecosystems, combines unmatched natural beauty with visionary, sustainable development. Offering guests an immersive sense of exclusivity and escapism, bold coral inspired architecture, cultural authenticity and intuitive service combine on Saudi Arabia’s compelling coastline.
at Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:16:28 +0000

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, announces the signing of Vaagali Maldives, Vignette Collection with partner Vaagali Investment Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of Gateway Maldives Pvt Ltd, a leading tourism development company in the Maldives. Set to open in late 2026, the resort will feature 52 land and overwater villas, offering guests soulful, immersive stays on Vaagali island – a boutique jewel in the Indian Ocean shaped by the legacy and devotion of a Maldivian family. This treasured sanctuary will now welcome a new generation of travellers seeking one-of-a-kind stays
at Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:14:31 +0000