Mr. Azar Saliba will assume the role of Managing Director of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, effective 6 May. Since joining Jumeirah in 2006, Azar has held a number of leadership roles across the portfolio, including at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, and Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf. He has served as General Manager since 2015, first at Jumeirah Al Qasr, and more recently at Jumeirah Al Naseem.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 11:11:46 +0000

IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement with Yash Hotels & Resorts LLP for the development of Holiday Inn Resort Alwar. Scheduled to open in Q1 2030, the hotel will mark IHG’s entry into the city of Alwar and further strengthen its resort offering in India, in line with the company’s strategy to grow across high-potential leisure and emerging destinations.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 05:51:49 +0000

IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed management agreements for two new Holiday Inn branded hotels in Aswan, Egypt, marking the brand’s entry into one of the country’s most significant heritage and tourism getaways. Signed with Misr Holanda and Avenue for Development, the agreements will bring Holiday Inn Aswan and Holiday Inn Resort New Aswan to the market, adding a total of 400 keys to IHG’s growing Egypt portfolio. Globally, Holiday Inn stands as one of the world’s most iconic and trusted hospitality brands, with a network of over 1,200 hotels. Rooted in a service philosophy built on creating brighter stays and genuine moments of connection, the brand is dedicated to helping guests make the most of every journey.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 05:48:25 +0000

Royal Caribbean Group, a global vacation leader redefining the future of vacations, has announced it has confirmed with Meyer Turku the order of a sixth and seventh Icon Class ship to be delivered in 2029 and 2030, respectively.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 05:43:10 +0000

This Military Appreciation Month, Busch Gardens proudly opens its gates to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans, inviting them and their families to enjoy a well-deserved day of fun and adventure. Busch Gardens’ two parks in Tampa and Williamsburg, VA, are celebrating Military Appreciation Month with free one-day admission for U.S. military veterans and up to three guests. Veterans can register for this offer now through May 10 and have until June 30 to visit with their complimentary admission. Veterans can also receive 50% off a single-day ticket for up to 6 guests.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 05:37:48 +0000

Avelo Airlines this week celebrated the fifth anniversary of its start of operations. When Avelo took flight on April 28, 2021, it became the first new airline in the U.S. in nearly 15 years – introducing a new era of affordable, convenient, and reliable air service for millions of American travelers.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 05:35:19 +0000

Boeing and Copa Airlines have announced the Panamanian operator has ordered 40 737 MAX airplanes. Under the agreement, Copa Airlines also has options to acquire up to 20 more of the single-aisle airplane family.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 05:32:19 +0000

Samsonite, the iconic and trusted leader in travel gear since 1910, unveils its new Chocolate Mauve colorway as the latest chapter of its brand platform, “It’s Not Just a Bag, It’s a Samsonite,” starring Olivia Culpo. A rich, trend-forward neutral, Chocolate Mauve reflects the growing consumer desire for travel essentials that blend style, function and self expression.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 05:30:53 +0000

Princess Cruises, a world leader in premium cruising, announced that two of its standout specialty dining venues, Makoto Ocean and The Butcher’s Block by Dario, have been honored with the prestigious 2026 International Five Star Diamond Award, recognizing excellence in culinary innovation, quality and service.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 05:28:52 +0000

Castlerock announces the completion of a comprehensive $13.5 million renovation of The Westin Nashville, enhancing guestrooms, suites, and key public spaces across the 456-room hotel. Located adjacent to Music City Center, the property plays a central role in Nashville’s convention and group market, and the renovation positions the hotel to better serve evolving business and leisure demand.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 05:25:57 +0000

VistaJet, the world’s first and only global business aviation company, announces its summer 2026 Private World collection, featuring a curated series of immersive journeys across Africa, the Arctic, North America and Europe. Seamlessly connected by its floating fleet, VistaJet continues to offer guaranteed availability and access to over 2,400 airports worldwide, delivering a consistent, residential-style experience in the sky.
at Fri, 01 May 2026 05:23:54 +0000

The highly-experienced former Kenyan Tourism Minister, the Hon. Najib Balala, has been appointed to the Leadership Team at the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the global voice of the private sector within the industry. Based at WTTC’s global office in Madrid, Mr. Balala has started in a new role as Executive Vice-President for Advocacy, Government Affairs and Research. He will lead WTTC’s global advocacy agenda, government engagement and policy research.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 21:23:25 +0000

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today announced a new chapter for its global leadership and team, bringing together executives and former C-suite leaders, industry experts, and Ministers from across the Travel & Tourism industry to reflect the diversity and international nature of the private and public sector. The leadership team demonstrates WTTC’s evolution to meet the current and future needs of the global private sector, with a broader mix of nationalities and expertise spanning different elements of the sector. WTTC’s expanding team features 21 nationalities across five continents, including British, Spanish, Mexican, Saudi Arabian, Indian, Chinese and Kenyan.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 21:22:07 +0000

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is pleased to welcome the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) as a Destination Partner. The Uganda Tourism Board is the government agency mandated to promote and market Uganda as a preferred tourism destination. In addition to destination marketing, UTB plays a central role in developing, coordinating, and regulating the tourism sector, supporting product development, and enhancing Uganda’s global competitiveness.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 21:20:15 +0000

Aurora Expeditions has delivered its largest Antarctic season to date, operating 30 voyages, facilitating an estimated 819 landings, and welcoming a 30% increase in expeditioners, representing 56 nationalities. The 2025/26 programme was underpinned by the launch of the company’s third expedition vessel, Douglas Mawson, in Sydney in November, ahead of its inaugural Antarctic season. This was the first time in its 35-year history, Aurora operated three ships simultaneously in Antarctica, expanding access and choice for expeditioners.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:10:29 +0000

The travel company Rakuten Travel uses artificial intelligence (AI) to bring about improvements in hotel bookings with a new agent designed to recommend hotels. Such improvements promise more personalized travel booking for its customers.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 12:07:28 +0000

A century after the golden age of ocean liners, a new icon has taken shape on the Atlantic coast. In Saint-Nazaire, within one of France’s most storied shipyards, the Orient Express Corinthian—the world’s largest sailing yacht—was officially named, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of luxury travel.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:54:49 +0000

Argentina stepped confidently onto the global stage once again — not just as a footballing giant, but as a destination redefining its place in the world of luxury travel, gastronomy, and experiential tourism.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:13:34 +0000

Recent ABTA travel research reveals that one in five adults now prioritise travelling alone, the highest proportion seen this decade. With independent exploration firmly on the agenda, this growing appetite for solo travel aligns perfectly with National Walking Month in May. From two routes spotlighted in Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When: Hiking to experiences ranging from luxury stays across the country to journeys that support local communities, Peru emerges as an exceptional destination - both for solo adventurers and for travellers keen to indulge themselves.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:07:28 +0000

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, announces its partnership with PAYBACK, Germany’s leading consumer loyalty programme with more than 35 million customers. The collaboration introduces a new way for German guests to earn rewards when staying at any of IHG’s 7,000+ hotels worldwide.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 09:45:45 +0000

The Route 66 Golf Trail, The World’s Longest Golf Trail, will be unveiled at a news conference at LaFortune Park Golf Course on Thursday, April 30 at 10 a.m. “It is an honor to launch this permanent golf trail, celebrating the Centennial of Route 66 in 2026,” said Gary Sparks, founder of the Route 66 Golf Trail.” Playing these designated courses, as a bucket-list or golf road-trip, will create lasting memories for millions of golfers as they travel this iconic highway.”
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 09:39:01 +0000

As the United States approaches its 250th birthday, the classic American road trip is making a comeback. More families are opting for drivable vacations this summer that combine value, flexibility and meaningful experiences—trading crowded itineraries for time together on the open road.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 09:09:22 +0000

Southwest Airlines Co. celebrates the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding with the introduction of Independence One, a special new livery from the airline that is known for democratizing the skies. Independence One will join two additional Southwest® America-themed planes—Freedom One, which has been in the fleet since 2021, and Liberty One, a second newly-introduced aircraft painted in an American flag theme.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 08:06:22 +0000

This week, United Airlines will kick off its summer schedule with service to new European destinations in Croatia, Italy, Scotland and Spain. The new routes begin launching April 30 — giving customers even more options to reach unique, culturally rich destinations across Europe. In 2026, United will offer up to 210 flights daily during peak travel times between the U.S. and 36 destinations in Europe including Greenland – including 14 that no other U.S. network carrier serves – giving travelers more options at the times they want to travel most.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 08:04:16 +0000

Off Grid presents the most exclusive way to experience Miami Race Week, May 1 - 3, 2026. Off Grid Hospitality returns to the Miami Grand Prix with an unprecedented custom-built trackside environment, fueled by Imperial Moto, alongside premium cocktail service and luxury tasting experiences courtesy of Diageo Rare & Exceptional. Located at Turn 8, the suite is designed for a curated audience of like-minded racing enthusiasts and lovers of life who value experience and community above all else.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 08:02:01 +0000

Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi has officially achieved a new Guinness World Records™ title for the Highest speed achieved by a rollercoaster launch for its iconic ride, Formula Rossa. The legendary attraction accelerates from 0 to 240 km/h in just 4.9 seconds in a single high-powered launch, setting a remarkable benchmark in rollercoaster engineering and further cementing its place in global theme park history. The park was named World’s Leading Theme Park 2025 at last years World Travel Awards.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:34:38 +0000

Boeing and SCAT Airlines today announced the carrier will expand its fleet and boost capacity with the fuel-efficient 737 MAX. The airline’s previously unidentified order for five more 737-9 jets will support operational efficiency and expand longer-range single-aisle service, including more routes to Europe. SCAT also converted five 737-8 jets from a previous order to the larger 737-9
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:32:53 +0000

Wego, the number one travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has announced a strategic collaboration with the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) to enhance how travellers across the region discover, explore, and plan trips to Türkiye.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:30:58 +0000

In recognition of Military Appreciation Month, Resort for a Day, the largest provider of resort day passes for cruise travelers, is launching a 10% military discount program May 1, 2026. Verified active-duty service members and veterans will receive 10% off all Resort for a Day passes.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:24:18 +0000

Fairfield by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, today announced the opening of Fairfield by Marriott Chongqing Nan’an District, marking 100 hotels in Greater China and underscoring its continued growth momentum in the region. Nestled in the heart of Nan’an District in Chongqing, China’s famous “3D Magic City,” the hotel is designed to provide a warm and comfortable stay for both business and leisure travelers, bringing to life Fairfield’s “beauty of simplicity” through its signature heartfelt hospitality.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:22:27 +0000

At a time when overtourism is reshaping global travel, the Yukon offers something increasingly rare: space, silence and the freedom to explore without limits. Vast, remote and deeply connected to nature, this is a destination where the journey is shaped not by crowds, but by the landscape itself. With just 46,000 residents across a territory the size of Spain, the Yukon delivers an extraordinary sense of scale, where wilderness dominates and moose famously outnumber people. Reached via Whitehorse, the territory’s main gateway, around 80% of the region remains true wilderness, creating a setting where travel unfolds at a slower, more considered pace.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:20:04 +0000

Orlando is serving up vacations filled with unforgettable moments this summer with headline-worthy concerts, nighttime water park takeovers, character-driven moments, food and music festivals, and international sporting events, including a World Cup friendly match. Recently named the No. 1 Summer Travel Destination for 2026 by WalletHub, Orlando continues to expand its mix of entertainment offerings, giving travelers more reasons to return — again and again.  “Our unmatched combination of world-class theme parks, live entertainment and year-round sunshine, plus our exceptional dining scene, is why families, music lovers and adventure seekers continue to choose Orlando for their summer getaways,” said Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:18:08 +0000

This summer, Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort introduces its Collection of Emotions, a curated series of artist residencies, culinary moments, and wellness experiences designed to connect guests more deeply to place. Set between desert and sea, the program highlights both contemporary Mexican artistry and time-honored techniques through immersive, property-wide activations. At the center is a rotating roster of resident artists, including Los Cabos muralist Rodrigo Azanza, designers Salvador and Enzo Compañ of Lørdag & Søndag, and textile artist Daniela Chiñas. Contemporary works chosen by Lørdag & Søndag and created in collaboration with Mexican artisans will be installed throughout the resort to engage directly with the landscape. Each piece is informed by native materials, regional craft techniques, and the distinct visual language of Baja California Sur.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:15:21 +0000

Day 1 of Arival 360 Valencia 2026, the world’s leading conference for the tours, activities and attractions sector, brought together operators, distributors, technologists, and brand innovators to explore the forces reshaping the global experiences industry.  With thousands of delegates from more than 70 countries, Arival opened with a clear message: the experiences sector is entering a new era defined by AI‑driven discovery, multi‑day transformation, open connectivity, and the rapid evolution of traveller expectations. Across the day’s keynotes and panels, industry leaders unpacked the shifting dynamics of customer acquisition, the rise of multi‑day travel, the growing power of culinary and brand‑led experiences, and the technologies that will define the next decade of growth.
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:13:38 +0000

Orient Express and Chantiers de l’Atlantique today celebrate the baptism of Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht, at the Joubert graving dock in Saint-Nazaire.  Following the ceremony, the ship, a feat of engineering and a showcase of French craftsmanship, will sail from Saint-Nazaire on 2 May 2026, bound for the French Riviera ahead of her inaugural Mediterranean season. Laurent Castaing, Chief Executive Officer of Chantiers de l’Atlantique, says: “For more than one hundred and sixty years, Chantiers de l’Atlantique has been building ships that define their era. Orient Express Corinthian is the latest proof of this: 720 feet, 15,000 tonnes carried by the wind, three SolidSail sails… the fruit of ten years of research and development. It is a concrete, technical response to the decarbonisation challenges facing maritime transport. But above all, it is the work of men and women of exceptional dedication and passion. To them I owe this humble pride. And I thank Orient Express for the trust they placed in us from the very first day of this extraordinary project.”
at Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:10:43 +0000

Paris has been named Official Host Destination for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2026, with the Gala Ceremony to take place in the French capital on 9 December 2026 as the culmination of the two-day World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance Summit.
at Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:30:32 +0000

As a UAE-born brand shaped by authentic hospitality and immersive experiences, JA Resorts & Hotels continues to evolve alongside the nation it calls home. Across the country, time is increasingly spent in ways that feel shared and intentional, with community-led and active experiences taking quiet precedence, a shift JA has long been part of through its distinctive blend of world-class hospitality and considered lifestyle experiences. Home to JA Palm Tree Court, JA Beach Hotel, and JA Lake View Hotel, the resort reflects how modern residents choose to stay, play, and unwind.
at Wed, 29 Apr 2026 09:35:58 +0000

TravelAI, the UpNext company pioneering the next generation of agentic AI for travel, today announced the appointment of Shie Gabbai and Brianna MacNeil to senior leadership roles. These hires mark a significant step in TravelAI’s mission to reshape how travelers plan, book, and experience travel through intelligent, autonomous AI agents.
at Wed, 29 Apr 2026 09:18:52 +0000

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is already leaving its mark on global travel, with international interest climbing across the United States, Canada, and Mexico—but not at the same pace. New analysis from Data Appeal and Mabrian (Almawave-Almaviva Group), in collaboration with PredictHQ— the leader in real-world context for AI and forecasting—shows that while demand is clearly building, converting that interest into arrivals will depend on air connectivity, domestic travel momentum, and how effectively destinations prepare for peak periods.
at Wed, 29 Apr 2026 09:10:54 +0000

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) has announced that exhibit floor space for the 2026 Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC®) is officially sold out, with more than 360 companies exhibiting across 83,000 net sq. ft. of exhibit space. With expanded exhibit floor space this year, attendees can explore a broad mix of companies and dive into dozens of technology categories and solution options. The HITEC 2026 exhibit hall will be open June 16–18, 2026, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio with more than 5,800 attendees expected. The event remains the world’s largest and longest-running hospitality technology conference and exhibition.
at Wed, 29 Apr 2026 09:08:14 +0000