Travel Uni News

  • easyJet has marked the 30th anniversary of its first ever flight from London Luton to Glasgow by operating the very same flight today, staffed entirely by pilots and cabin crew who also turn 30 this November. Bringing together past and present, the crew were joined by retired Captain Fred Rivett who operated the very first easyJet flight on 10 November 1995. Fred and his crew made history three decades ago, when EZY121 to Glasgow took off with 122 passengers. Now 30 years to the day, new research commissioned by the airline has revealed the lasting cultural impact affordable flying has had on the nation, and how the democratisation of air travel has transformed not just the way we travel but also shaped our lives at home.
    at Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:50:24 +0000
  • Icelandair has started scheduled service to Miami, Florida, marking an exciting milestone in the airline’s route network. Icelandair will operate three weekly flights to Miami—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—until 2 May 2026. The route is served by the airline’s new Airbus A321LR aircraft, with a flight time of approximately eight hours.
    at Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:47:21 +0000
  • Mandarin Oriental is delighted to announce the opening of Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai, the Group’s second property in the city. Located within Wasl Tower, an architectural masterpiece on Sheikh Zayed Road, the hotel brings Mandarin Oriental’s signature blend of Asian heritage and local character to the heart of Downtown Dubai, curating a vertical boulevard where hospitality, culture and commerce unite. The urban property features 259 elegant guestrooms and suites, 224 private residences and 10 dining venues, all crowned by a rooftop helipad designed for discreet VIP arrivals. Developed in partnership with Wasl Hospitality, the hotel sets a new benchmark for contemporary luxury in the city.
    at Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:43:03 +0000
  • Marriott International, Inc. unveiled plans to diversify its presence in Morocco with the introduction of five brands in the market: Four Points by Sheraton, Moxy Hotels, Residence Inn by Marriott, Autograph Collection Hotels and AC Hotels by Marriott. The entry of the brands is a part of the company’s broader growth plans in the country, which includes the anticipated addition of seven properties and over 800 rooms by the end of 2027.  Marriott’s expansion in Morocco further reinforces a commitment to diversifying its portfolio in the market and supporting the country’s growing tourism sector. The company’s current operations in the market comprises 10 properties with over 1,700 rooms across six brands and five cities - Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakesh, Fes and Tamuda Bay.
    at Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:39:31 +0000
  • The next generation of travel innovators has arrived. PhocusWire today announced its Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2026, highlighting the companies redefining how the world moves, books and experiences travel in an age of economic uncertainty and rapid artificial intelligence transformation. Despite two years of contracting venture funding, innovation in travel continues to surge. According to Phocuswright research, 95% of travel startups are either using AI or actively exploring its use, signaling a decisive shift toward AI-native business models. This wave of leaner, faster and more focused startups is transforming the competitive landscape, even as investors and incumbents recalibrate for a new era.
    at Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:37:44 +0000
  • Orlando’s holiday celebrations kick off this month, ushering in more than 70 days of festive experiences across the destination — from a Nutcracker-themed afternoon tea at the ette Hotel and Holidays in Space at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to more than one million lights illuminating a three-quarter-mile trail with snowball fights and dazzling chandeliers at Leu Gardens. Orlando offers endless ways to make a holiday getaway unforgettable. It’s no wonder that Orlando made the No. 1 U.S. destination to travel to in 2025 by AAA.
    at Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:35:38 +0000
  • Madeira is gearing up for its spectacular Christmas lights switch-on on 1 December, marking the start of a vibrant season of festive celebrations. With improved flight connections from the UK this winter, it’s easier than ever for travellers to experience the island’s magical Christmas and New Year festivities. This winter*, weekly flights from the UK to Madeira have increased by 5%, with new routes from Bournemouth and Luton. With excellent connections from both London and regional airports - including Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Glasgow - the island offers nationwide access for travellers seeking winter sun and festive cheer.
    at Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:34:46 +0000
  • For the seventh time in eight years, Verbier has claimed the title of Switzerland’s Best Ski Resort at the World Ski Awards. Already a winner in 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, the resort once again confirms its status as an icon of Swiss skiing. This new achievement, the result of a collective effort, celebrates an entire community with partners, residents, seasonal workers and enthusiasts who make Verbier shine far beyond its borders. Thanks to this shared momentum, the destination secured the highest number of votes among Switzerland’s most prestigious resorts.
    at Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:28:16 +0000
  • African Development Bank Group (https://www.AfDB.org) President Dr Sidi Ould Tah and Luxembourg’s Finance Minister, Gilles Roth, have pledged to deepen cooperation as preparations advance for the seventeenth replenishment of the African Development Fund (ADF-17), the Bank Group’s concessional financing window.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 20:20:24 +0000
  • At WTM London, Julio Chávez, Director of the Fideicomiso de Promoción Turística de Chihuahua, set out to redefine what Mexico means to European travellers. Forget beaches and resorts - Chihuahua is “the Mexico you don’t know”: a land of vast canyons, ancient cultures and boundless hospitality.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 19:37:39 +0000
  • At WTM London, Lizzie Cole, Subsecretary for Tourism Promotion at SEFOTUR Yucatán, introduced the state’s new ‘Mayan Sanctuary’ campaign - a call to discover a Mexico defined by heritage, safety, and authenticity. The initiative positions Yucatán as a destination of living culture, world-class gastronomy and sustainable growth, inviting European travellers to look beyond the beaches of Quintana Roo.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 19:35:25 +0000
  • World Ski Awards, the only global initiative to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in ski tourism, has announced the winners of its 13th annual programme. Val Thorens, Europe’s highest resort, was named ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’ in recognition of setting the global standard for lift infrastructure, resort facilities and slopeside accommodation. Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley in Utah was voted ‘World’s Best Ski Hotel’, and Chalet Zermatt Peak claimed the stellar title of ‘World’s Best Ski Chalet’. Hôtel Le Pashmina took the title for ‘World’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel’ thanks to its exquisite facilities and ski-to-door access to Les Trois Vallées.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 15:00:25 +0000
  • Air Canada today revealed a brand-new “Zootopia 2” themed aircraft livery celebrating Walt Disney Animation Studios’ highly anticipated sequel, only in theatres November 26. This special livery on an Airbus A220 aircraft, Fin 138 will be seen in the skies and at several destinations including Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, Vancouver, Los Angeles, New York LaGuardia, Denver and Boston.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:51:43 +0000
  • Etihad Airways and Hong Kong Airlines are strengthening their partnership by launching a codeshare partnership and establishing a reciprocal loyalty agreement. The loyalty agreement was signed during a ceremonial event in Hong Kong on the evening of 4 November 2025, coinciding with the arrival of Etihad’s inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong International Airport .
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:48:00 +0000
  • Jetstar is making it easier and more affordable than ever for Sunshine Coast travellers to take off on an international adventure, with new direct flights to Bali and connecting services onto Singapore from 25 March 2026.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:46:04 +0000
  • South African Airways (SAA) has expanded its African network with the launch of a new twice-daily service between Johannesburg and Gaborone, which commenced on 4 November 2025. “This route is more than a flight, it’s a strategic link in SAA’s broader commitment to enhancing intra-African connectivity,” said SAA Group CEO, Professor John Lamola, speaking at the launch event in Gaborone. “It reflects our vision to support trade, tourism, and regional integration across the continent.”
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:43:12 +0000
  • Lufthansa and premium mobility provider SIXT are entering into a partnership for the exclusive Lufthansa First Class Limousine Service. For 20 years, Lufthansa has been offering its First Class guests and HON Circle Members at the Frankfurt and Munich hubs a highly comfortable and seamless journey directly to the aircraft and back again upon arrival. A total of 40 vehicles of various models from SIXT are now available at Frankfurt and Munich airports for this premium service. The vehicles feature the respective Lufthansa and SIXT logos as well as the words “Lufthansa Shuttle Service.”
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:42:26 +0000
  • KrisFlyer, the Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group’s rewards programme, is the Official Lifestyle Rewards Partner for American pop-rock band OneRepublic’s concert in Singapore on 2nd March 2026. The Grammy nominated band will perform at the Singapore Indoor Stadium as part of their From Asia, With Love Tour 2026, with KrisFlyer members receiving priority access to this highly anticipated show. OneRepublic is known for numerous chart-topping hits including Counting Stars and Apologise, as well as a track titled Singapore. Fans can look forward to a high-energy performance that showcases their catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics and dynamic sound, as well as a captivating stage presence that is bound to leave a lasting impression.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:37:43 +0000
  • The countdown is on for Virgin Atlantic’s new daily service from London Heathrow to Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea, with the first flight scheduled for 29 March 2026. Operated on the Boeing 787-9, the route cements Virgin Atlantic’s continued expansion eastwards, joining recent launches to Riyadh, Dubai and the Maldives, as well as its growing network in India with five daily services to Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:35:31 +0000
  • British Airways has today announced its customers will soon benefit from Starlink connectivity. Starlink is a revolutionary Wi-Fi provider, powered by the world’s most advanced satellite constellation that orbit much closer to Earth than those used traditionally, providing even the most isolated areas with a more reliable and faster internet experience. The airline will start its Starlink rollout in 2026. Once fully fitted, all customers, whichever cabin they’re travelling in, will have free access to the service for streaming, working and keeping in touch.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:32:27 +0000
  • flynas, the leading low-cost airline in the world and the best LCC in the Middle East, has been awarded the Operational Excellence Award of the 2025 oneDXB Airport Excellence Awards, presented by Dubai Airports, outperforming more than 100 regional and international airlines operating at Dubai International Airport (DXB.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:31:45 +0000
  • Tamil Nadu, the southernmost state of India known for its ancient temples, rich history, literature, architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, captivated audiences at World Travel Market (WTM) London 2025. The state’s participation highlighted its deep connection with London — a relationship built on centuries of trade, education, and cultural exchange — and invited travellers to discover its timeless charm.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 09:50:53 +0000
  • Riyadh, now more a symbol of transformation than tradition, is right now playing host to one of the most significant gatherings in global tourism history. The 26th UN Tourism General Assembly, taking place from 7 to 11 November 2025, marks the fiftieth anniversary of the organisation and the first time the event has been held in the Gulf. As delegates entered the third day of discussions this morning, the sense of momentum was unmistakable.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 09:09:55 +0000
  • The Arabian Gulf’s cruise industry has entered a new era of collaboration and growth as Saudi Arabia and Qatar officially join the Cruise Arabia Alliance, completing a regional partnership that now brings together all six leading Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) destinations — Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. This expansion marks a milestone moment for the region’s fast-growing cruise tourism sector. By aligning the Gulf’s most prominent ports under one strategic alliance, Cruise Arabia aims to create a seamless, world-class cruising experience across the Arabian Peninsula — showcasing diverse cultural, historical, and coastal attractions while streamlining operations for global cruise lines and travelers alike.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 07:02:16 +0000
  • The NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality (NYU SPS Tisch Center), in collaboration with Stayntouch and IDeaS Revenue Solutions, today released a new industry report, 2026 Hotel Technology Outlook: Best-in-Class vs. All-in-One Systems. Led by NYU SPS Tisch Center graduate students, this capstone study explores how hotel operators evaluate and invest in technology, comparing Best-in-Class systems, which are specialized high-performing solutions integrated around a core PMS, with All-in-One systems that offer a suite of capabilities through a single provider.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:59:58 +0000
  • Following the recent repositioning of SAii Hotels & Resorts as a lifestyle brand rooted in the belief that peace of mind is the ultimate luxury, SAii Phi Phi Island Village unveils a refreshed take on its “Astro Moments” experience. Now enhanced with expert-led stargazing sessions and a newly launched Zodiac-to-Experience Guide, the programme invites guests to reconnect with the cosmos in one of Thailand’s most breathtaking island settings.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:56:40 +0000
  • Nestled among majestic mountains at over 3,400 meters above sea level, Cusco—the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—will soon welcome the latest Peruvian destination of Meliá Hotels International. The leading Spanish hotel group has just announced the upcoming opening of the Hotel Cusco La Paccha Affiliated by Meliá, scheduled for January 1, 2026.This new project represents more than just geographic expansion: it is an invitation to experience the essence of Peru from one of its most iconic destinations, widely regarded as the gateway to the legendary Machu Picchu. Just 10 minutes from the Plaza de Armas, the hotel—formerly known as Xima Exclusive Cusco—is located beside the well-known ornamental fountain La Paccha de Pumaq Chupan, one of the city’s tourist attractions. It is also surrounded by colonial churches, vibrant markets, and museums that immerse travelers in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:51:06 +0000
  • Hyatt Hotels Corporation (the “Company”) (NYSE: H) today announced an expanded agreement with Chase (NYSE: JPM), building on the successful collaboration between Hyatt and Chase that rewards World of Hyatt cardmembers for stays across Hyatt’s global portfolio. World of Hyatt remains the fastest-growing loyalty program in the global hospitality industry with more than 60 million members, growing at a rate of nearly 30% annually since 2017. Through its continued emphasis on member choice and recognition, World of Hyatt is one of the most valuable hospitality loyalty programs, with more than 40% more members per hotel compared to the next closest competitor. The result is highly engaged members who spend more, stay more, and book through direct channels more frequently than non-members.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:49:33 +0000
  • Hyatt Hotels Corporation celebrated the opening of Hyatt Centric Reims, marking the exciting debut of the Hyatt Centric brand in France. The hotel opening supports Hyatt Centric brand growth globally, with plans to expand its brand footprint by 50% by the end of 2029, reaching over 100 hotels. From its prime location in the city center, Hyatt Centric Reims offers breathtaking views of the Aisne-Marne Canal that sits right in front of the hotel, while still being close to the main tourist attractions. Cultural landmarks, such as the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Palais du Tau, and the world-renowned Champagne Houses, offer the perfect itinerary within a 15 minute walk of the hotel, placing guests in in the heart of the action to immerse themselves in the rich history of the region.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:47:29 +0000
  • IHG Hotels & Resorts announces the opening of Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma. Located in the heart of Kyoto on one of the city’s most historic and charming streets, the 103-room hotel opens after an extensive transformation and represents the Garner brand’s commitment to delivering relaxed, quality stays at an affordable price. As the newest addition to the growing Garner portfolio in Japan, Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma joins three Garner hotels already open in Osaka, each offering guests a distinct, uncomplicated stay experience. The brand hallmark ‘Made with Character’ underpins the design of Garner hotels. Each hotel is purposefully different, celebrating the diversity of the brand’s guests and properties.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:43:55 +0000
  • The lead development partners of Wynn Al Marjan Island, which is under construction in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE—Wynn Resorts, Limited and Marjan LLC—have announced their second joint venture development on Al Marjan Island:  Janu Al Marjan Island. The resort from Aman Group, the developer and operator of extraordinary hotels, resorts, and branded residences, will be managed and operated by the pioneering hospitality group and is slated to open late 2028.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:40:30 +0000
  • Vista, the world’s leading private aviation group, has unveiled an enhanced version of its global XO Marketplace in the Middle East, introducing deeper technology integration, real-time operator schedules and proprietary pricing algorithms to deliver the most seamless, data-driven private flight booking experience available today.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:37:27 +0000
  • Kuoni is expanding its Caribbean portfolio with the addition of St Kitts & Nevis and Turks & Caicos, bringing greater depth and diversity to the region’s offering. These new destinations reinforce Kuoni’s commitment to growth while delivering exceptional experiences for customers. This follows last year’s successful introduction of the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, further enhancing Kuoni’s Caribbean collection, which also includes favourites such as Antigua, St Lucia, Grenada, and Barbados.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:35:07 +0000
  • Now the clocks have gone back, guests at Hôtel Dame des Art in Paris are discovering the warm welcome offered by the hotel’s urban sauna experience. The hotel, which is located in the heart of Paris’ creative Latin Quarter, combines this timeless wellbeing practice with a cosy sense of seasonal hygge, a handy best practice guide, and a dash of Parisian flair
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:32:08 +0000
  • Marriott International, Inc. announced a signed agreement with Pacifica Hotels G.K. to bring City Express by Marriott to Japan with the conversion of two existing hotels in Osaka. Following a complete rebrand, the hotels are expected to re-open in 2026 as City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South and City Express by Marriott Osaka Shin-Imamiya. Together, these openings are expected to mark the Asia Pacific debut of City Express by Marriott, bringing the midscale brand’s strong blend of value, convenience and modern comfort to one of Japan’s most dynamic cities.
    at Mon, 10 Nov 2025 06:28:12 +0000
  • The UN Tourism Executive Council has marked a historic milestone, nominating Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais of the United Arab Emirates as the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism, effective 1 January 2026. Her nomination, announced during the 123rd session of the Executive Council in Segovia, will be presented for confirmation at the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (7–11 November 2025).
    at Sun, 09 Nov 2025 22:13:54 +0000
  • Imagine a traveler’s perfect day planning itself, rerouting around a rainstorm, prompting a café to add staff before the lunch rush, suggesting a quiet gallery when crowds swell.  This is the promise of Agentic Tourism, an AI-powered operating model introduced in a new white paper by TOURISE and Globant, a digitally native company that helps organizations thrive in a digital and AI-powered future, with strategic contribution from Kearney. The report, titled Tourism’s AI Takeover: Reinventing Travel through Agentic Tourism, presents a practical framework for transforming the tourism experience, making it more seamless, intelligent, and emotionally resonant.
    at Sun, 09 Nov 2025 10:29:43 +0000
  • Nobu Hospitality, proudly announces the brand’s first residential project in Miami and a new architectural icon along Biscayne Bay. Developed in partnership with 13th Floor Investments and Key International, this visionary project marks a new chapter for the Nobu brand—where refined design, elevated service, and the essence of modern Japanese luxury come together in the hands of masters, uniting to create one extraordinary address.
    at Sun, 09 Nov 2025 06:38:12 +0000
  • Volcan de mi Tierra, the family-owned luxury Tequila brand created through a joint venture between Mexico’s esteemed Gallardo family and global luxury leader Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), celebrated The 6th Taste, a landmark tasting experience held on Dia de Los Muertos in collaboration with The Only Caviar and TY Bar at the Four Seasons Hotel New York.
    at Sun, 09 Nov 2025 06:36:07 +0000
  • The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, India’s only pure play luxury hotel brand, today announced the signing of a management agreement with The Godwin Group for The Leela Jaisalmer, marking its foray into Rajasthan’s fabled desert capital, the Golden City. Spread across 30 acres of desert landscape, this 80-room luxury Desert Resort and Spa is slated to open in 2026, further expanding The Leela’s footprint across India’s most captivating leisure and cultural destinations. The signing marks a significant milestone in The Leela’s strategic growth journey reflecting its commitment to expanding through a balanced portfolio of owned and managed assets, while maintaining its hallmark of luxury and service excellence.
    at Sun, 09 Nov 2025 06:34:03 +0000
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