Travelers increasingly expect the same payment flexibility when booking a trip as they do when shopping online, whether that’s paying in installments, using local payment methods, or combining loyalty points with cash. In fact, 60% of travelers are likely to abandon a booking if their preferred payment method isn’t available. Yet many travel payment systems weren’t built for that level of complexity. This is what John Lunn, CEO of Gr4vy and former PayPal executive, explores in his latest piece on why traditional payment service providers are struggling to keep up with modern travel commerce.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 12:04:02 +0000

VCT today announced that Delta Air Lines will install a finlet modification package from Vortex Control Technologies (VCT) across its Boeing 737-800 and 737-900ER fleet, bringing the enhancement to 240 aircraft once installation has been completed. The decision follows a comprehensive technical collaboration and in-service evaluation between the two companies, including analysis of flight test data, operational trends and engineering review of aerodynamic performance.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 12:03:45 +0000

As the school summer holidays approach, new research from Park Christmas Savings shows families across the UK are bracing for six weeks of financial strain — with food costs, days out and childcare all piling pressure onto already-stretched household budgets. With the school gates set to close for summer in the coming weeks, a major new survey of UK by Park Christmas Savings has laid bare the financial reality facing families this year.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:47:55 +0000

Emirates SkyCargo has partnered with Dogs 4 Wildlife, a UK-based charity that protects endangered wildlife in Africa through the deployment of specialist conservation dogs. The first phase of the partnership will see Emirates SkyCargo transport dogs from the UK to Southern Africa, where they will work alongside wildlife park rangers to track poachers and strengthen conservation efforts. The first two dogs, Vega and Kuda, both Belgian Malinois, are specialist human scent tracking dogs trained by Dogs 4 Wildlife for conservation operations. Selected for their exceptional drive, determination, and natural tracking abilities, Vega and Kuda will help form a new conservation K9 unit supporting wildlife protection efforts in Zimbabwe.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:43:18 +0000

Otherwander Soho, the newly opened 566-pod hotel in central London, has selected Apaleo, the API-first property management platform, to power its fully digitised guest journey and highly streamlined operating model. Opened on 1 June 2026 at 92 Dean Street in the heart of Soho, Otherwander Soho has built its technology ecosystem around interoperability, automation and real-time data flow. Rather than placing the property management system (PMS) at the centre of operations, the hotel has adopted a middleware-led architecture in which systems connect through open APIs and data moves across the business in real time.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:58:42 +0000

Barceló Hotel Group announces the opening of Barceló Roma, a new city hotel in the Italian capital and the result of a €41 million investment. Following a complete refurbishment, the hotel pays tribute to 20th century Roman Rationalist architecture and will set a new benchmark for contemporary hospitality in one of Europe’s most visited destinations. Perfectly situated near Rome’s historic centre and Vatican City, Barceló Roma is a dynamic destination where business, culture and modern city life come together. Its 352 rooms blend sophisticated design, comfort and high-quality finishes, offering something for all types of guests.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:51:42 +0000

IDeaS, a SAS company and the world’s leading provider of AI-powered hospitality revenue management software, today announced significant momentum in the adoption of its broader commercial strategy solutions, highlighting a growing industry shift toward connected decision-making that extends well beyond traditional revenue management. The announcement comes as hotel organizations face increasing pressure to navigate market volatility, staffing constraints, evolving traveler demand patterns, and growing expectations for data-driven decision-making across commercial functions. As teams are increasingly tasked with connecting revenue, marketing, sales and operational strategies, hoteliers are investing in technologies that provide a more unified view of business performance and market opportunities.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:43:42 +0000

As the height of the tennis season approaches, with global anticipation building ahead of Wimbledon (29 June – 12 July), Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort in the Algarve, invites guests to enjoy the thrill of the game first-hand at its Annabel Croft Tennis and Padel Academy. Reflecting demand for experience-led luxury holidays, the academy offers world-class coaching and exceptional facilities for all abilities, from beginners to seasoned players. Combining the timeless appeal of tennis with the rising popularity of padel, one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, it is the perfect setting to refine skills, stay active and enjoy the Algarve’s stunning coastal surroundings.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:38:23 +0000

At a time when rising costs and the demand for flexibility are reshaping how South Africans travel, City Lodge Hotels, Avis, and Budget have responded with a new partnership deal. Guests checking into easy online at www.citylodgehotels.com can now also enjoy 15% off Avis car rental and 10% off Budget car rental. From quick business trips to family getaways, travel plans just became even more affordable. Together, these brands are committed to simplifying the travel journey from end to end and delivering meaningful value to both business and leisure travellers. (Terms and conditions apply.)
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:36:43 +0000

GoNexus Group, a leading experiences and mobility travel group, has announced a strategic partnership with TicketNetwork, a live-event ticketing technology and marketplace distribution company, to launch a new Sports & Live Events vertical within NexusCube, its B2B travel marketplace. The agreement represents a significant milestone in GoNexus Group’s evolution, expanding its portfolio beyond traditional travel products and reinforcing its strategy to diversify revenue streams and strengthen its omnichannel growth model across international markets.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:33:21 +0000

Two of Sub-Saharan Africa’s strongest unserved routes still have no direct flight: Johannesburg to Mumbai, and Brussels to Cape Town. Both appear in the Airbus Exploring the Horizons study among high-demand corridors where passengers continue to route through a third city because no carrier has yet launched a service. Some of the continent’s connectivity gaps have narrowed over the past year. Qantas added Perth to Johannesburg, Edelweiss introduced its A350 service to Windhoek, Air Congo announced a Brussels link to Kinshasa, and Ethiopian secured approval to serve Mauritius. If those routes can move from proposal to operation, why do others with similarly strong demand remain unserved? That question sat at the centre of a discussion at AviaDev Africa 2026 in Gaborone, the continent’s main route development forum, where airlines, airports and tourism bodies meet to build new air links. It was chaired by Natalia Rosa, Project Lead at the Southern Africa Tourism Alliance (SATA).
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:30:13 +0000

New data from Business Travel Show Europe, 24-25 June 2026, Excel London, reveals a marked increase in corporates using business travel as a benefit to attract and retain talent - from 18.57% to 20.17% in the last 12 months.  Of those, 5.88% are including a remit to take bleisure trips among their employee benefits offering and 1.68% allow workcations. While over half - 52.1% - don’t use business travel as a talent carrot, this is considerably lower than last year’s 57.14%.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:24:46 +0000

Ground has officially been broken for the expansion of the Healing Earth™ Transformative Wellness Spa at Brahman Hills, bringing a sanctuary to life where wellness is not confined to a treatment room, but woven into the very landscape that surrounds it.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:06:09 +0000

On June 16, the 2026 Hainan Cultural and Tourism Promotion Events, under the theme of “Sunny Hainan · Heart’s Desire,” were held in Hong Kong. Leaders from Hong Kong’s cultural and tourism authorities, heads of industry associations, and representatives of key cultural and tourism enterprises from home and abroad gathered to explore new opportunities for cooperation and draw up a blueprint for the industry’s future.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:04:45 +0000

Qantas has today revealed the next evolution in the cabin design for Project Sunrise, which will launch with the world’s first non-stop services between Sydney and London from October 2027. The Qantas Airbus A350-1000ULR has been configured with just 238 seats, the lowest seat density of any A350 around the world, giving every customer more space on board. Every element has been designed to help customers arrive at their destination feeling their best, drawing on a decade of research with the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre and close collaboration with Caon Design Office and technology partners.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 09:51:16 +0000

Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch has opened reservations ahead of its highly anticipated debut, marking a defining milestone for Waldorf Astoria in the United Kingdom. Set within one of London’s most iconic Grade I listed monuments, the hotel will introduce overnight stays in Admiralty Arch for the first time in its history.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 09:14:26 +0000

The World’s Leading Travel Trade Show will take place in Berlin from 16 to 18 March 2027. With its new campaign it focuses on the developments shaping global tourism, i.e. changing travel habits, innovative mobility solutions and new technological, economic and social conditions. It shows how markets, destinations and business models are constantly evolving, creating new prospects for tomorrow’s world of travel.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 09:12:34 +0000

The Travel Trends Podcast today announced that its Virtual Summit V3 has expanded capacity to 2,500 free registrations, driven by overwhelming support from partners across the global travel industry. Taking place October 28 & 29, 2026, the Travel Trends Podcast Virtual Summit V3 will bring together travel leaders, innovators, technology pioneers, destination marketers, advisors, operators, and hospitality professionals to explore the future of travel through this year’s theme: Beyond AI.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:54:42 +0000

Maldivian-owned group Versa Hospitality today announces the launch of Versa Keys: a tiered loyalty programme designed to reward guests for their curiosity, loyalty and time spent across the group’s growing collection of destinations worldwide.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:49:45 +0000

dnata Catering & Retail Singapore has commenced inflight catering services for Air Macau at Singapore Changi Airport, further expanding its long-standing partnership with the Air China Group. Under the new agreement, dnata will support Air Macau’s daily operations in Singapore, producing an estimated 54,000 meals annually across business and economy cabins.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:47:49 +0000

The RuMa Hotel and Residences, a one MICHELIN Key awarded five-star property, introduces “The Kuala Lumpur Escape,” a thoughtfully curated stay experience that invites residents of ASEAN countries to step away from the everyday and rediscover Kuala Lumpur through a lens of calm, comfort, and understated luxury.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:43:50 +0000

Hyatt Hotels Corporation today announced the opening of THE BARAI HUA HIN, marking the debut of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand in Thailand. Set along the historic Khao Takiap coastline in Hua Hin, a favored seaside destination for generations of Thai royalty, the 98-room beachfront resort brings together standout wellness tradition, locally-inspired design and the spirit of Sanook (สนุก) – the Thai expression for the joy of living.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:40:05 +0000

The iconic Elephant Bar at Raffles Hotel Le Royal has been named one of the “Best Global Hotel Bars” by Food & Wine magazine—one of just 10 venues selected worldwide. Long regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved watering holes, Elephant Bar in Phnom Penh, Cambodia is celebrated for its timeless French colonial elegance, extensive gin collection and rich history. The recognition, which appears in the magazine’s May 2026 issue, further cements the bar’s status as a global destination for discerning drinkers.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:38:51 +0000

Opening in late 2026, The Warbler Hotel will debut as a 58-key boutique hotel that will house Mildred’s, a martini bar and restaurant, and Upstairs, a poolside lounge, overlooking the lush canopy of St. Charles Avenue’s famed oak trees. Designed as a welcoming gathering place for locals and travelers alike, The Warbler embodies the enduring spirit of Old World New Orleans. Located at 1923 St. Charles Avenue, along the city’s most iconic corridor, The Warbler is poised to become a signature destination for discerning travelers from around the world.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:36:41 +0000

Jumeirah, a global leader in hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, has partnered with Humantra to launch an exclusive and limited-edition summer electrolyte flavour, Pineapple - inspired by the places people travel to recharge and reset. The collaboration brings together two Dubai-born brands with global reach and a shared commitment to wellbeing, community and generosity, grounded in the belief that true luxury lies in feeling your best
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:35:50 +0000

Summer in Tokyo has its own set of rituals and events that mark the season, and one of the most popular is the annual fireworks – or hanabi - festivals that light up the night skies week after week throughout the summer.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:33:07 +0000

With its warm climate, long sun-filled evenings and lively calendar of cultural events, Rome is the perfect destination for a summer city break. Perched atop Monte Mario with panoramic views across The Eternal City, Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, provides a peaceful retreat from which to explore the destination’s historic landmarks – striking the perfect balance between city exploration and resort-style relaxation. 
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:31:21 +0000

TUI has launched a new in-store “Last Minute, Holiday Check It” service to support customers booking holidays closer to departure, as new research highlights the pressures many face when planning at short notice. The move comes as late booking demand continues to build across the market, with research from ABTA pointing to a strong late booking trend this summer. TUI’s study of 2,000 UK adults found that booking closer to departure is often associated with increased pressure, with nearly half (48%) agreeing it intensifies the need to “get it right”. Many also report feeling anxious (29%) and overwhelmed (21%) when making last-minute holiday decisions.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:29:58 +0000

This June, Sofitel invites guests to experience the vibrant, culturally rich French tradition of Fȇte de la Musique. Joining Sofitel properties from across Asia, Sofitel curates an evening deeply connected to the vibrancy of French culture and celebration yet still infused with Asia’s distinct local twists.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:53:10 +0000

Opened in May 2026, Natural Selection’s Nkasa Linyanti is an under-canvas camp in Namibia’s Linyanti wetlands, a remote ecosystem in the Zambezi region where the Linyanti and Kwando rivers converge through reed beds and floodplains. The opening introduces a new safari destination and commitment to supporting the continued resurgence of wildlife in this critical conservation area, including the protection of an important elephant corridor linking Angola, Namibia, and Botswana.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:51:25 +0000

Arajet continues to strengthen its South American network with the launch of its new direct service between Rosario and Punta Cana. The operation, which began on Tuesday, June 16, will provide a nonstop connection between one of Argentina’s most important cities and one of the Caribbean’s most popular tourist destinations. The new service will operate three weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, offering travelers a convenient way to visit the Dominican Republic and access Arajet’s growing network of international destinations through its hubs in Santo Domingo and Punta Cana.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:50:40 +0000

Oceania Cruises® has unveiled its new 2028 & 2029 Collection of Voyages, featuring more than 230 itineraries across the globe. Sailings range from seven to 180 days and include more than 60 overnight port stays. Opening for bookings today, 17 June 2026, this double launch of two full future seasons gives guests and travel advisors greater time and flexibility to plan their journeys well ahead.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:48:09 +0000

Galapagos Safari Camp have now extended to the midland with the opening of Ilaló Sky House. Designed as a contemporary, light-filled four-bedroom private home on the slopes of Ilaló, the villa offers families and small groups a calmer, more personal way to begin or end their time in Ecuador. Located between Quito’s international airport and historic center, and set above the Cumbayá and Tumbaco valleys with expansive open views, it provides the comfort, privacy and continuity that traditional hotel stays rarely provide.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:44:21 +0000

Recruitment activity in the travel industry slowed in May as global events continued to impact the market, according to the latest figures from C&M Travel Recruitment. Candidates, vacancies and placements all fell on both a monthly and annual basis – the first time this has happened since last June.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:41:49 +0000

andBeyond has reimagined luxury safari in the Okavango Delta with the launch of two new intimate camps, andBeyond Sandibe Under Canvas and andBeyond Nxabega Under Canvas, which officially launched in March 2026. Together with the newly refurbished andBeyond Chobe Under canvas, they complete a seamless seven-night circuit through Botswana’s most iconic wild places, a journey offering a rare combination of adventure, intimacy, and sustainability.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:36:51 +0000

United Airlines has expanded its MileagePlus Miles Pooling feature to now include 40+ partner airlines – including Lufthansa, ANA, Virgin Australia and Air Canada – making it easier for families and friends to combine their miles and book future travel together.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:35:45 +0000

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) today announced the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) 2026, taking place November 16-18 at the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lords Castle. Held under the theme, Caribbean Tourism 2030: Resilient. Regenerative. Ready., CHIEF 2026 will convene hospitality and tourism leaders from across the region to explore emerging trends, share practical solutions and prepare their businesses and destinations for the next era of Caribbean tourism.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:31:03 +0000

Design Hotels today announced a landmark portfolio expansion with Palisociety, the Los Angeles-based independent hospitality brand known for its design-forward hotels in key U.S. markets.  Design Hotels has entered into agreements with the owners of 16 hotels across nine U.S. destinations operated by Palisociety to join Design Hotels’ portfolio, marking the largest portfolio addition in the brand’s history.
at Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:29:14 +0000

With the aim of adapting its services to the demands of the digital environment and continuing to enhance guest satisfaction, H10 Hotels has announced the official launch of its new mobile app. This revamped digital tool transforms the way guests interact with the group’s properties, delivering an improved customer experience by providing direct and easy access to hotel services. The new app has been developed to cover the three key stages of the travel cycle: before travelling to the destination, during the stay, and after departure. In addition, it allows H10 Rewards members to comprehensively manage their stays across the chain.
at Wed, 17 Jun 2026 16:38:55 +0000

JA Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort has officially joined the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme, the only hotel in Scotland to be part of the global alliance, marking a major milestone in the resort’s continued evolution as part of the JA Resorts & Hotels portfolio.
at Wed, 17 Jun 2026 16:35:49 +0000