Europe’s travel industry continues to strengthen Europe’s travel sector continues to show resilience, with Japan emerging as the fastest-growing long-haul source market for the region, according to Travel Insights 2026: Focus on Europe, a new report released by Amadeus in collaboration with UN Tourism. The report combines air, hotel, and
The Executive Board of Deutsche Lufthansa AG has appointed Lorenza Maggio as the new Chief Executive Officer of Brussels Airlines. The appointment remains subject to approval by the Board of Directors of SN Airholding. In addition to leading the Belgian carrier, Maggio will also serve as Executive Board Representative to
Holiday Inn, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, has hosted its Hotel Owner Forum & Signing Ceremony in Beijing, announcing the signing of 24 new hotels across Greater China. The newly signed hotels span major cities and regional markets, catering to a wide range of travel needs, including business trips,
Langham Hospitality Group (LHG) has strengthened its commitment to resource efficiency and circularity across its hotel portfolio. Each property has introduced creative solutions to minimise food waste while enhancing the guest experience. LHG Sustainability Programme As part of its ongoing sustainability mission, LHG has invited its culinary and bar teams
Radisson Hotel Group has expanded its presence in Thailand with the opening of Radisson Resort Layan Phuket, a contemporary 300-room resort on Phuket’s tranquil northwest coast. Located between Layan Beach and Sirinat National Park, the new resort combines tropical design, modern facilities and authentic Thai hospitality, while providing easy access
Thailand continues to captivate British travellers, with visitor numbers reaching record highs since the pandemic. Latest figures reveal that more than one million UK visitors have travelled to Thailand, highlighting the destination’s enduring appeal. New research from Destination2 shows that Thailand is attracting a broader audience than ever before. While
IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement with Newhope Real Estate to introduce the Regent brand to Chengdu. The signing marks Regent’s debut in the city while further strengthening IHG’s luxury footprint across Greater China’s leading urban destinations. Scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2029, Regent Chengdu
Jin Jiang International Hotels and Radisson Hotel Group have opened Radisson Collection Hotel, Hi-Tech Zone Chengdu, marking the luxury brand’s flagship debut in Southwest China. Located within the Cloud Yunduan Tower at the Business & Innovation Centre for China-Europe Cooperation (CCEC), the hotel blends contemporary European design with Sichuan’s rich
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Traveloka have renewed their strategic partnership to strengthen Singapore’s position as a preferred destination for travellers across Asia-Pacific. The new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) expands the collaboration into Australia while introducing new initiatives focused on events marketing, destination storytelling and AI-powered tourism promotion. At
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released the latest edition of its World Air Transport Statistics (WATS), providing one of the aviation industry’s most comprehensive annual snapshots. Covering data through 2025, the report highlights continued growth in passenger demand, premium travel, airline operations and aircraft utilisation across global markets.
Klook and the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) have renewed their strategic partnership, signing a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate digital tourism innovation, promote Korea’s regional destinations, and enhance travel experiences through AI-powered solutions. The renewed agreement focuses on four key priorities: “Korea continues to capture the imagination of
Marriott’s Westin brand is set to debut on the Gold Coast, with La Vie Hotels & Resorts appointed to manage the landmark 138-key luxury hotel opening in late 2029. La Vie Hotels & Resorts has reached another significant milestone after being appointed to manage The Westin Gold Coast, a landmark
Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) delivered another strong quarter, reporting double-digit growth across revenue, room nights and loyalty engagement in Q2 2026 as international travel demand remained resilient despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. The world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands generated US$858 million in total revenue during the second quarter, representing
Marriott Bonvoy and Japan Airlines introduce reciprocal elite status matching, exclusive rewards, and enhanced travel benefits across flights and hotel stays. Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program, and the JAL Mileage Bank (JMB) program from Japan Airlines (JAL) have launched a strategic travel loyalty partnership that delivers exclusive benefits
Accor has announced the appointment of Gilles Cretallaz as Senior Vice President Operations, South-East Asia, Japan, Korea and the Maldives for its luxury brands Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems. Based in Bangkok, Cretallaz returns to Accor to oversee a significant portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts across one of
As travel becomes an increasingly important form of self-expression and social connection for younger generations, IHG Hotels & Resorts is expanding initiatives designed specifically for Gen Z travelers across Greater China. With more than 230 million Gen Z consumers in the region, the company is focusing on three priorities—shared interests,
Radisson Hotel Group is strengthening its presence across Southeast Asia and the Pacific through a market-specific development strategy that aligns each brand and operating model with local demand and owner objectives. The Group continues to expand in established gateway cities, leading leisure destinations and emerging markets while serving business, leisure,
Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake has announced the appointment of Nicolas Senes as its new General Manager. He brings more than two decades of international leadership experience with Four Seasons across Europe and Asia, further strengthening the luxury hotel’s position as one of China’s leading hospitality destinations. Nicolas
Air France unveils its first dedicated lounge at London Heathrow, offering French-inspired dining, Clarins spa treatments and exclusive spaces for La Première and Flying Blue members. Air France has officially opened its new premium lounge at London Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 4, marking the airline’s first dedicated lounge at one of
Hilton has announced plans to introduce its Tempo by Hilton brand to Asia Pacific, marking the lifestyle brand’s regional debut with multiple hotel signings across China. The expansion strengthens Hilton’s growing lifestyle portfolio while responding to rising demand from business and leisure travellers seeking experience-driven stays that balance productivity, wellness
Former De Beers CEO joins Kerzner International to lead global commercial strategy and strengthen luxury hospitality brands including Atlantis, One&Only, SIRO, and rare finds. At a Glance Kerzner International has appointed Celine Assimon as its new Chief Commercial Officer, reinforcing the group’s long-term strategy to strengthen its portfolio of luxury
This is one of Red Bird Travel News’ most in-depth hotel reviews, featuring first-hand experiences, exclusive interviews, and practical tips. If you have the opportunity, enjoy it on a larger screen with a good cup of coffee. After attending the Mekong Tourism Forum 2026 in Yangon, I checked into Sindhorn
Palladium Hotel Group has appointed Farah Jaber as Managing Director for Southeast Asia as the Spanish hospitality company establishes a regional headquarters in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, to support its expansion across the region. At a Glance Vietnam Chosen as Regional Hub for Southeast Asia Jaber will report directly
Hilton Honors members can now earn and redeem Points on luxury Explora Journeys cruises, unlocking exclusive onboard perks, elite benefits and discounted fares through Hilton’s latest travel partnership. Hilton is expanding its loyalty programme beyond traditional hotel stays by allowing Hilton Honors members to earn and redeem Points on luxury
The Malaysian flag carrier strengthens its China presence with new direct routes from Kuala Lumpur, opening more opportunities for business, leisure and tourism travel. At a Glance Malaysia Airlines Adds Shenzhen and Changsha to China Network Malaysia Airlines has expanded its China network with the launch of new direct services
Poland is highlighting its credentials as one of Europe’s safest and most rewarding destinations for women travelling alone with the launch of its new Her Way. Poland. campaign. The initiative showcases the country’s strong safety record, rich cultural heritage, affordable travel and diverse city experiences as global interest in solo
Vietnam Airlines is increasing flight frequencies to Japan, South Korea and Taiwan (China) as demand for tourism, business travel and family visits between Vietnam and Northeast Asia continues to strengthen. The additional services provide passengers with more flexibility while reinforcing the airline’s commitment to improving regional connectivity. The expanded schedule
A travel eSIM can help travellers stay connected overseas without paying costly roaming fees Whether you are flying abroad to support your favourite team at the World Cup, planning a summer holiday, or exploring a new city on a long-haul adventure, staying connected is now an essential part of travel.
Travel + Leisure readers have named Capella Hotels and Resorts the world’s best hotel brand for the fourth consecutive year, marking a milestone that reinforces the brand’s growing influence in luxury hospitality. The recognition carries particular weight because travellers worldwide voted across a portfolio of only ten properties, including the
Strategic portfolio deal will introduce new Accor brands to Vietnam while strengthening the country’s luxury, lifestyle and resort hospitality landscape Accor and Sun Group are expanding their long-standing partnership with a major portfolio agreement that will add more than 5,300 hotel and serviced residence keys across Vietnam over the next
Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed the latest travel trends for Indonesia in the first half of 2026, highlighting strong inbound travel interest from across the Asia Pacific region. Based on accommodation searches made between January and June 2026 compared with the same period in 2025, Agoda’s data shows Malaysia
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is inviting travellers to experience “Blooming and Bright Amazing Thailand”, a seasonal campaign highlighting the beauty of Thailand during the rainy season. This shoulder travel period transforms the country’s landscapes with lush greenery, spectacular waterfalls, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed travel atmosphere. Unlike
WATG has appointed Bhavya Kukrety as its new Managing Director of Asia Pacific, strengthening the firm’s leadership across the region. In her new role, she will focus on advancing WATG’s integrated approach to design, while embedding sustainability, ecology, and resilience into its built-environment projects. With more than two decades of
Regent Hong Kong has once again claimed the top spot among the city’s luxury hotels, with readers of Travel + Leisure naming it the Best Hotel in Hong Kong at the Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026. The recognition marks the third consecutive year that the waterfront hotel has won the
During my stay at Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok last month, I had dinner at Flourish, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant. The meal was exceptional—so much so that I asked if I could meet the chef behind it. A short while later, Executive Chef Frank Trepesch came out to greet me.
Southern Thailand ecolodge recognized for restoring nature and supporting local communities through regenerative tourism. Responsible tourism pioneer Anurak Lodge has been honored with the Regenerative Tourism award at the 2026 Responsible Tourism Awards Southeast Asia, recognizing its long-term commitment to ecological restoration and community-based tourism in southern Thailand. The regional
NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort has appointed hospitality veteran Keith Tomkies as General Manager, bringing nearly 30 years of international leadership experience to the private island resort in the Maldives. In Brief Keith Tomkies Brings Global Hospitality Experience to Maldives Resort NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort has announced the appointment
The Stelliers Greater China 2026 Awards Ceremony will return to Shanghai on December 11, 2026, marking the event’s homecoming to the city where Stelliers was founded more than a decade ago. This year’s ceremony will be held at MGM Shanghai West Bund, the first MGM-branded city hotel in China. The
Saudi has launched Package Visa, a new digital initiative that integrates tourist visa applications directly into curated travel bookings. The program aims to simplify the travel planning process by allowing eligible visitors to arrange their visa, flights, accommodation, and selected tourism experiences through a single booking. The rollout is now
Vietnam is attracting significantly more international travelers, with digital travel platform Agoda reporting that international accommodation searches for the destination increased by nearly 50% year over year in 2025. The growth reflects stronger global demand, supported by visa reforms, expanded air connectivity, and continued investment in tourism infrastructure. According to
Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) has announced the winners of its 2026 GHA Awards, recognising outstanding achievements across its portfolio of independent hotel brands and properties worldwide. Presented during GHA’s annual CEO conference aboard Seven Seas Splendor on 5 July 2026, the awards celebrated excellence across 13 categories covering loyalty performance,
The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi has appointed Vincent Pauchon as General Manager, marking a new leadership chapter for the luxury beachfront resort. Drawing on extensive experience within The Ritz-Carlton brand and its ultra-luxury Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, Pauchon will oversee the property’s continued focus on personalized luxury, wellness, sustainability, and guest experience. For
During a recent stay at Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, I took the opportunity to sit down with Khun Jittima, the hotel’s Director of Wellness at Sindhorn Wellness by Resense—one of Bangkok’s most talked-about wellness destinations. Known for its award-winning facilities and integrated approach to health and recovery, the property has
Accor is significantly expanding its presence in China, targeting 1,600 hotels across Greater China within the next five to six years, nearly doubling its current portfolio as the hospitality group strengthens luxury growth and strategic partnerships in one of the world’s most important tourism markets. At a Shanghai press conference,
Mercure Nha Trang Beach has celebrated its first anniversary, marking a year of growth, cultural connection and locally inspired hospitality along Vietnam’s famous Nha Trang coastline. Since opening, the beachfront hotel has established itself as a destination where contemporary comfort meets the authentic character of Nha Trang, offering travellers memorable
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas has appointed Hervé Duboscq as General Manager, strengthening the resort’s leadership team as it continues to grow its reputation as one of Malaysia’s leading luxury coastal destinations. With more than three decades of international hospitality experience, Duboscq brings extensive expertise in managing luxury resorts
A New Era of Contactless Airport Travel in Doha Passengers departing from Hamad International Airport can now move through the airport using facial recognition instead of a physical boarding pass, thanks to the launch of Fast Pass by Qatar Airways and technology partner SITA. The system enables travelers to check
Xiaohongshu and Hong Kong hotel leaders are reshaping hospitality marketing through content-led travel discovery, targeting rising independent travellers and conversion-driven digital funnels. At a Glance Editor’s Insight Hong Kong’s hotel sector is entering a structural shift where visibility is no longer driven by OTAs alone, but by narrative-led discovery. Platforms
Southeast Asia Debut for Canopy in Bangkok Reservations are now open for Canopy by Hilton at its upcoming Bangkok flagship, marking the brand’s first entry into Southeast Asia. The property, Canopy Bangkok Sukhumvit, is scheduled to welcome its first guests on 1 August 2026, with bookings available via Hilton. Positioned
The Grand Mansion Hotel Nanjing is one of those properties that feels increasingly rare in modern China’s luxury hotel landscape — not because it is the newest or most technologically advanced, but because it carries a distinct sense of place. Originally part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, the hotel now operates
British Airways Celebrates 80 Years of UK–US Flights with New Lounge Investments British Airways is celebrating 80 years of scheduled flights between the United Kingdom and the United States, marking a milestone that began with its very first transatlantic commercial service from London to New York. The anniversary highlights eight
A new study from Marriott International’s Luxury Group challenges the idea of a “single Gen Z traveler,” revealing four distinct luxury mindsets shaping how affluent young travelers across Asia Pacific are redefining premium travel through identity, wellbeing, culture, and intentional disconnection. Luxury travel is entering a more fragmented and personal
The renewed three-year agreement extends one of Australian sport’s longest-running hospitality partnerships, deepening IHG’s role in travel, accommodation and fan experiences across Australia and New Zealand. In Brief A 24-year partnership rarely survives in modern sport without evolving—and that is exactly what makes the renewed agreement between IHG Hotels &
Singapore Airlines has increased its London Gatwick–Singapore service to double daily for the peak summer travel season, offering more flexibility for UK travellers and stronger onward connections across Asia-Pacific. To celebrate, the airline is also introducing exclusive Snap playing cards for children, available on Gatwick departures from mid-July while stocks
Radisson Hotel Group has introduced an AI-powered real-time price matching system that automatically aligns lower publicly available hotel rates found on third-party platforms directly on RadissonHotels.com. The move replaces traditional Best Online Rate Guarantee claims with a fully automated process that requires no screenshots, forms, or manual approval. At a
Veteran Marriott leader brings 22+ years of Asia-Pacific experience as the luxury Tokyo property accelerates its post-launch growth strategy. In Brief JW Marriott Tokyo Strengthens Leadership Post-Launch The recently opened JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo, which debuted in October 2025 as the brand’s new Japan flagship, has appointed veteran hospitality executive
A Landmark Connectivity Deal in Southeast Asia Travel Traveloka and Marriott International have entered a multi-year distribution agreement designed to strengthen hotel visibility, booking efficiency, and real-time inventory access across Indonesia and Southeast Asia. Under the agreement, Traveloka is designated as a Certified Online Travel Partner of Marriott International, enabling
Limited-time campaign (7–12 July) delivers major flight, hotel, attraction, transport and eSIM discounts across global destinations Trip.com has launched its Jet Set July Mega Sale, a five-day global promotion tailored specifically for Australian holidaymakers seeking discounted international and domestic travel. Running from 7 to 12 July (AEST), the campaign bundles
Leadership Shift at a Flagship Luxury Property in Cambodia Rosewood Phnom Penh has appointed Andrew Moore as Managing Director, effective June 25, 2026, marking a strategic leadership transition as the ultra-luxury property strengthens its position in Cambodia’s evolving high-end hospitality market. Moore brings more than two decades of international luxury
Marriott International, Inc. and The Coca-Cola Company have announced a global beverage partnership that will expand Coca-Cola products across Marriott hotels worldwide. The rollout begins immediately and will extend across guestrooms, restaurants, lounges, and meetings and events over the coming months. The agreement broadens beverage choice across Marriott’s global portfolio,
Capella Hotel Group has appointed Christian Westbeld as Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia, placing him in charge of operations across Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Westbeld will oversee the strategic direction and operational excellence of three key luxury properties: Capella Singapore, Capella Ubud, and Capella Hanoi, reinforcing the brand’s positioning in
After spending time travelling around Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia recently, I was reminded that the little things often make the biggest difference. It wasn’t necessarily the flights, hotels or attractions that improved the experience. Instead, it was a handful of practical travel habits and tools that saved
Minor Hotels appoints experienced luxury hotelier to lead one of Thailand’s premier island resorts. Minor Hotels has appointed Erik Billgren as General Manager of Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas, reinforcing the group’s leadership team at one of its flagship luxury resorts in southern Thailand. The appointment brings more
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Waldorf Astoria has officially opened reservations for its first property in Malaysia, marking a significant milestone for Hilton’s luxury portfolio in Southeast Asia. The upcoming Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur introduces the brand’s signature blend of timeless elegance, anticipatory service, and refined luxury to the heart of
RateGain Travel Technologies Limited, a global leader in AI-powered SaaS solutions for the travel and hospitality industry, has released new summer travel insights through its subsidiary Sojern, revealing a resilient global travel market shaped by shifting consumer behavior, rising airfares, and geopolitical uncertainty. With the FIFA World Cup 2026 underway
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has officially opened Hyatt Place Jiaxing Nanhu, marking the Hyatt Place brand’s debut in Jiaxing—one of China’s most historic water towns. The opening strengthens Hyatt’s footprint in the Yangtze River Delta region and adds a new stay option for both business and leisure travelers. Located along the
Minor Hotels has appointed Kanruethai Roongruang as General Manager of Avani+ Hua Hin Resort in Thailand. She brings more than 25 years of hospitality leadership experience across Thailand, the Maldives, and international resort operations, with a strong background in wellness, commercial strategy, and luxury hospitality management. Minor Hotels, a global
Raffles Cambodia celebrates a standout year as Raffles Hotel Le Royal claims the country’s top city hotel title, while Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor secures second place and both properties earn multiple luxury hospitality honours. Raffles Cambodia has strengthened its position as one of the country’s leading luxury hospitality brands after
From world-class museums and rooftop bars to Viet-Cajun dining and luxury shopping, Houston’s neighbourhoods each offer a completely different travel experience. As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston doesn’t have a single defining centre — instead, it’s a patchwork of districts, each with its own identity, rhythm and
According to an Oxford Economics study released by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and the California Hotel & Lodging Association (CHLA), hotels generated more than $12 billion in economic impact in San Francisco in 2025, supporting jobs, tax revenue, and wider tourism spending. At a Glance Hotels at
Partnership will align Tokyu Hotels’ operations with GSTC Standards, strengthening sustainability across hotel management, supply chains, and staff training in Japan and beyond. The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) and Tokyu Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd. (Tokyu Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd.) have signed a Memorandum of
The Hari Singapore will open in spring 2027, as Harilela Hotels expands its luxury brand into the city, transforming the former Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre into a 326-room hotel. The property will become the brand’s third hotel, joining existing locations in London and Hong Kong. The Hari Singapore
Rather than heading straight back to Shanghai after attending the Mekong Tourism Forum 2026 in Yangon, Myanmar, I extended my journey with a few nights in Bangkok, taking the opportunity to experience three very different hotels. While each property offered its own appeal, one hotel had been at the top
Capella Hotel Group has appointed Feisal Jaffer as its new Chief Development Officer, strengthening its leadership team as the luxury hospitality company accelerates global expansion across its Capella and Patina brands. The appointment comes as the Group enters a significant growth phase, with plans to double its global portfolio by
Capella Hotel Group today announced the launch of Capella Residences Bangkok, a 262-unit branded residential development forming the residential centrepiece of the WellEra project in Bangkok’s Lumpini district. Positioned at the intersection of Sarasin and Langsuan Roads and overlooking Lumpini Park, the project strengthens Bangkok’s positioning as a regional hub
WTTC Introduces Independent Certification for Hotel Sustainability Basics The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is strengthening its Hotel Sustainability Basics programme by transitioning it to an independent third-party certification scheme, marking a major step in the evolution of global hotel sustainability standards. The move aligns the programme with new
South Korean Travelers Prioritize Time-Efficient Travel as Japan and China Dominate Weekend Getaways As travelers increasingly seek to maximize experiences without taking additional leave, a growing preference for short, time-efficient holidays is reshaping outbound travel from South Korea. New data from Agoda shows nearby destinations in Japan and China are
New collaboration with the Hong Kong Film Directors’ Guild transforms iconic movie moments into an immersive culinary journey overlooking Victoria Harbour. Luxury hospitality meets cinematic storytelling as Regent Hong Kong unveils A Cinematic Taste of Hong Kong – Iconic Hong Kong Dishes from the Silver Screen, a new dining experience
IHG Hotels & Resorts debuts its premium voco brand in Malaysia as voco Kuching opens, bringing contemporary Sarawak-inspired design, 321 guestrooms, and one of the city’s largest hotel event venues. Malaysia’s hospitality landscape has entered a new chapter with the opening of voco Kuching, marking the debut of IHG Hotels
The dual memberships strengthen AC Luxe’s luxury travel portfolio while reinforcing AC Group’s commitment to inclusive tourism for LGBTQ+ travellers. AC Group has announced its membership in both XO Private and The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), marking a strategic move to expand its luxury travel business while reinforcing its
Loïs Boisson has been named brand ambassador for MGallery Collection ahead of the 2026 tennis season, in a partnership focused on women’s empowerment and performance well-being. The collaboration aligns with MGallery Collection’s “Committed to Her” platform and will extend across the international tennis calendar, with a key activation planned at
BANGKOK, Thailand – Two-Michelin-starred restaurant Gaa has launched a new tasting menu that reimagines Indian culinary traditions through a contemporary lens, reinforcing its position as one of Asia’s leading fine dining destinations. Created by Chef Garima Arora, the new 16-course experience reflects years of research into India’s diverse regional cuisines
Hosting the 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, Dalian is using the global forum to showcase its economic transformation, innovation ecosystem and growing tourism sector. The 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, widely known as the Summer Davos, is taking place in Dalian, Liaoning Province, from 23 to
JCB has introduced contactless fare payments across Metro de Madrid, allowing cardmembers to access the Spanish capital’s metro network by simply tapping their JCB contactless card or mobile wallet at station fare gates. The service became available from June 2026, eliminating the need for passengers to purchase tickets before entering
The 2026 Shanghai Summer International Consumption Season will run from July to October, covering peak summer travel, the Mid-Autumn Festival period, and China’s National Day holiday. The citywide program, branded under “Shanghai Summer, Join the Family Fun,” is designed to integrate tourism, culture, retail, and entertainment into a single seasonal
Marriott International has appointed Sander Looijen as Market Vice President for Vietnam, effective June 22, 2026, placing the long-serving hospitality executive in charge of one of the company’s fastest-growing markets worldwide. Based in Ho Chi Minh City, Looijen will oversee Marriott’s operations across Vietnam, including a portfolio of 32 hotels
Marriott Bonvoy Rolls Out Summer 2026 All-Inclusive Family Vacation Deals Across the Caribbean and Latin America Families planning a beach escape this summer can now save on all-inclusive holidays as Marriott Bonvoy has launched a new seasonal promotion offering up to 20% off stays at participating resorts across Mexico, the
Accor’s Handwritten Collection has reached a major global milestone with the opening of its 50th hotel, underscoring growing traveller demand for boutique-style stays that combine local character with the reach of an international hospitality group. Just three years after launching in 2023, the collection now spans 20 countries, with more
Families, food lovers and visitors looking for a memorable seaside dining experience can enjoy limited-time savings this July as The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong celebrates the 29th anniversary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Running 1–7 July 2026, the hotel is offering 29% savings across its
The opening of The Dali EDITION highlights a growing shift in luxury travel as more travelers seek destinations that combine nature, local culture, and immersive experiences over traditional urban escapes. As EDITION continues expanding across Greater China, the new hotel strengthens Dali’s position as one of Southwest China’s most compelling
BANGKOK — Stelliers has announced the finalists for Stelliers Asia 2026, celebrating hospitality professionals whose leadership, creativity and service excellence continue to shape hotels across the region. The shortlist also marks a significant expansion of the awards programme, with three new categories recognizing the changing landscape of hotel operations. The
YANGON, Myanmar — Tourism leaders from across Southeast Asia have gathered in Myanmar as the Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF) 2026 returns with a renewed focus on people-first tourism, sustainable development and meaningful travel experiences. Held in Yangon from 16–18 June 2026, this year’s forum places communities, culture and local livelihoods
Hyatt is expanding its footprint in South Korea at a time when Seoul’s technology district is attracting growing numbers of international business travelers and blended-work visitors. The opening of Hyatt Place Seoul Pangyo marks the debut of the Hyatt Place brand in Seoul, giving travelers another internationally branded accommodation option
As travelers increasingly seek holidays that combine wellbeing with memorable experiences, the rise of Sportcation is reshaping luxury resort travel. The The Sanya EDITION is responding to this shift by integrating sport, wellness and social experiences throughout its island resort, reflecting changing traveler expectations for more active yet relaxing escapes
Yum China Buys Pizza Hut China Brand in Landmark $1.2 Billion Deal Yum China is taking full ownership of the Pizza Hut brand in Mainland China after agreeing to acquire the business from Yum! Brands for US$1.2 billion, marking one of the biggest strategic moves in the company’s history. The
Global hospitality investors are increasingly looking toward the Middle East as tourism demand, branded residences, and luxury travel projects reshape industry priorities. Against that backdrop, Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World 2026 is positioning Dubai as a central meeting point for hotel owners, developers, operators, and investment leaders navigating the next
Few hotels in the world are built this high above a city. I stayed at J Hotel Shanghai Tower during its fifth anniversary year, which felt like the perfect moment to revisit one of China’s most talked-about luxury hotels for a full and honest review. Living in Shanghai means this
The travel industry’s accelerating shift toward AI, automation, and digital operations is now reshaping major global trade events. WTM London has announced the launch of WTM Travel Tech for 2026, reflecting growing demand from tourism businesses seeking technology-driven solutions amid rapid changes in traveler behavior, distribution, and destination management. The
Luxury country estate Lucknam Park near Bath has appointed David Griffin as general manager as the property prepares to launch a major upgrade of its spa and wellness facilities, reinforcing its ambitions within the growing luxury wellness travel market. The appointment comes during a transformational period for the Cotswolds estate,
Despite inflation pressures, geopolitical conflicts and uneven consumer spending, the world’s largest hotel companies believe global travel demand remains remarkably resilient heading into the second half of 2026. Speaking during the “View from the Boardroom” session at the NYU International Hospitality Investment Forum, executives from Hilton, Hyatt, IHG Hotels &