Emirates and Copenhagen Design Launch Exclusive Collection of Lifestyle Items Inspired by Emirates’ Iconic Gold Branding

(IN SHORT) Emirates has collaborated with Danish brand Copenhagen Design to launch a collection of lifestyle items inspired by the airline’s iconic gold branding. The Emirates x Pantone collection includes high-quality keychains, tote bags, a notebook, and more, all in Emirates’ signature gold tones. Celebrating nearly 40 years of Emirates’ global presence, this exclusive collection… Read the full news article

Minor Hotels Appoints Omar Romero as Chief Development Officer to Lead Global Expansion

Romero is the latest addition to the hospitality group’s senior leadership team as it accelerates its global expansion plans (IN SHORT) Minor Hotels has appointed Omar Romero as Chief Development and Luxury Officer to drive its global expansion and luxury brand curation efforts. With over 20 years of hospitality experience, Romero will spearhead Minor’s strategy… Read the full news article

Louisiana Native Natalie Placer Joins Four Seasons New Orleans as Director of Marketing

Louisiana native and Four Seasons veteran returns home to lead marketing for celebrated hotel (IN SHORT) Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans has appointed Louisiana native Natalie Placer as Director of Marketing. With over 20 years in luxury hospitality and a strong background with Four Seasons properties nationwide, Placer will lead marketing for New Orleans’ only… Read the full news article

Choice Privileges Expands Rewards Program with Flexible Redemption Options and Enhanced Benefits

Members can redeem points at more than 7,000 hotels around the world, including 1,000 luxury and upscale, full-service hotels across Radisson, Radisson Blu, Cambria Hotels and others (IN SHORT) Choice Hotels’ Choice Privileges program is introducing new features in early 2025, enhancing flexibility and value for members. These updates include a 50-week booking window for… Read the full news article

KLM Celebrates Fourth Consecutive APEX World Class Award, Highlighting Commitment to Customer Experience and Sustainability

(IN SHORT) KLM has been awarded the APEX World Class Award for the fourth consecutive year, recognizing its outstanding achievements in customer experience, sustainability, and safety. This prestigious honor, presented by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), is based on global audits and consumer feedback. Ben Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, accepted the award in… Read the full news article

SAS Achieves Five Star Rating in 2025 APEX Awards, Recognizing Commitment to Customer Excellence

(IN SHORT) Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has been awarded a Five Star rating in the 2025 APEX global customer rankings, reflecting the airline’s commitment to exceptional passenger experiences. This recognition is based on nearly one million passenger reviews of 600 airlines worldwide and places SAS among the top 30 airlines globally, representing the top 7% in… Read the full news article

Phetchaburi Prepares to Host PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024, Showcasing Cultural and Culinary Tourism

Phetchaburi Province, TCEB, DASTA, TAT, Dusit Thani Hua Hin and PATA held a press conference on the preparation of the forum. (IN SHORT) Phetchaburi Province is set to host the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 (PDMF 2024) from November 12 to 14, 2024. A press conference on October 30 highlighted the partnership between the Pacific… Read the full news article

PATA Renews Partnership with OAG to Enhance Aviation Data Accessibility for Members

(IN SHORT) The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has renewed its partnership with OAG, designating the company as its Preferred Partner and exclusive aviation data provider for the next three years. PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid emphasized the importance of this collaboration, which will provide members with vital aviation data to monitor flight capacity and… Read the full news article

PATA Reports Strong Recovery in Asia Pacific Tourism with 2024 Outlook for Continued Growth

(IN SHORT) The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) released its Annual Tourism Report for 2024, highlighting a significant rebound in international visitor arrivals (IVAs) across the Asia Pacific region, which nearly doubled in 2023 compared to the previous year. The report reveals that 522 million visitors arrived in 47 destinations, marking a 94.3% increase. Key… Read the full news article

UN Tourism and Qatar Tourism Celebrate Excellence and Innovation at the Qatar Tourism Awards 2024

(IN SHORT) On October 30, 2024, UN Tourism and Qatar Tourism celebrated the second annual Qatar Tourism Awards, recognizing innovation and excellence in the tourism sector. The event received approximately 1,200 applications, showcasing the rapid growth of Qatar’s tourism industry, which has seen a 147% increase in international arrivals from 2019 to 2024. The awards… Read the full news article

UN Tourism and ILO Unveil New Employment Dataset to Enhance Sustainable Development Goals Monitoring

(IN SHORT) On October 30, 2024, UN Tourism launched a new dataset focused on tourism employment in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), aimed at enhancing the monitoring of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This initiative addresses a critical gap in assessing tourism’s impact, specifically regarding its role in job creation and economic growth,… Read the full news article

British Airways Celebrates the Resumption of Flights to Bangkok

(IN SHORT) British Airways has announced its return to Bangkok, resuming flights to Thailand for the first time in over four years. The inaugural flight departed London Gatwick on October 28, 2024, landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport the following day, where passengers were welcomed with traditional dancers and local gifts. Initially, the route will operate three… Read the full news article

Blue Islands Introduces Modern and Comfortable Cabin Crew Uniform to Enhance Service and Identity

(IN SHORT) Blue Islands has launched a new, stylish uniform for its cabin crew, emphasizing comfort and practicality while reflecting the airline’s unique identity tied to the Channel Islands. The updated uniform features trousers for all crew members and trainers instead of formal shoes, combining modern design with functionality. The initiative involved input from the… Read the full news article

Accor Unveils Plans for Sofitel Cairo Downtown Nile, Marking a New Era in Luxury Hospitality

(IN SHORT) Accor has announced the signing of Sofitel Cairo Downtown Nile, set to open in January 2025, marking the brand’s fourth hotel in Egypt and its 500th property in the Caribbean and Latin America region. This luxury hotel will infuse Cairo’s downtown with French elegance and is strategically located near iconic landmarks such as… Read the full news article

Marriott International Celebrates Milestone Opening of 500th Property in CALA with Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres

(IN SHORT) Marriott International has celebrated the opening of its 500th property in the Caribbean and Latin America (CALA) region with the debut of Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres, Adult All-Inclusive. This marks Marriott’s first luxury all-inclusive resort in Mexico, enhancing its presence in the sought-after Isla Mujeres market. The resort features 109… Read the full news article

Tru by Hilton Expands into Colombia with the Launch of Tru by Hilton Cali Sur, Elevating Local Hospitality

(IN SHORT) Tru by Hilton has officially opened its first hotel in Colombia, Tru by Hilton Cali Sur, located in a vibrant area of Cali. Managed by Hoteles MS, this new hotel features 98 modern rooms, a fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a 24/7 market for guests’ convenience. The hotel aims to enhance the local… Read the full news article

Regent Shanghai Unveils New Culinary and Artistic Experience at Regent Taste Studio

Guests are invited to Elevate Above the Noise, unfolding new inspirations for art and food at Regent Shanghai on The Bund (IN SHORT) Regent Hotels & Resorts has launched the second season of Regent Taste Studio at Regent Shanghai on The Bund, featuring the theme “The Magic of Beauty of Contrast” from October 28 to… Read the full news article

IHG to Open InterContinental Phang-Nga Bay Resort, Expanding Luxury Footprint in Thailand’s Scenic Phang-Nga Bay

150-key InterContinental Phang-Nga Bay Resort to open in 2028 (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts is expanding its luxury portfolio in Thailand with the planned InterContinental Phang-Nga Bay Resort, set to open in 2028. Located in the scenic Samet Nangshe area, the 150-key resort will offer travelers stunning views of Phang-Nga Bay along with luxury… Read the full news article

Qantas Expands Southeast Asia Reach with New Direct Brisbane-Manila Route, Strengthening Tourism and Trade Links

(IN SHORT) Qantas has launched nonstop flights from Brisbane to Manila, providing a direct link for travelers between Queensland and the Philippines. Operating four times a week, the new route will add over 100,000 seats annually and enhance connectivity for passengers traveling from New Zealand. The service reflects Qantas’ commitment to expanding in Southeast Asia… Read the full news article

Hyatt and Grupo Piñero Form Joint Venture to Expand Bahia Principe’s All-Inclusive Reach and Strengthen Market Presence

Strategic joint venture will strengthen Hyatt’s position as a global leader in the all-inclusive space and boost the growth of Grupo Piñero’s hotel division and its ability to reach new clients in key markets (IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Grupo Piñero have announced a joint venture to manage Bahia Principe hotels and resorts, adding… Read the full news article

Hyatt Centric Cairo West Opens as Egypt’s First Art-Centered Lifestyle Hotel, Blending Culture with Contemporary Design

A unique fusion of Egyptian culture, heritage, and contemporary art awaits at Cairo West’s first art-centered lifestyle hotel (IN SHORT) Hyatt Centric Cairo West has opened as Cairo West’s first art-focused lifestyle hotel, merging Egypt’s cultural heritage with modern design. Located near major sites like the Grand Egyptian Museum, the hotel features curated artworks by… Read the full news article

Mercure Hotels Launches ‘Local Diaries’ to Celebrate 1,000 Hotels with a Focus on Local Culture and Discovery

(IN SHORT) Celebrating its 1,000th hotel opening, Mercure Hotels has introduced the “Mercure Local Diaries,” a curated guide that invites guests to experience the local culture, flavors, and design unique to each Mercure destination. This initiative reflects Mercure’s commitment to providing authentic, regionally inspired stays, blending local charm with the reliability of a global brand…. Read the full news article

Mercure Hotels Celebrates Milestone with ‘1000-Hours of Local Flavours’ Culinary Journey Across the Globe

(IN SHORT) Mercure Hotels has launched “1000-Hours of Local Flavours” to celebrate its global network of 1,000 properties. This initiative offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the regional tastes of Mercure locations worldwide, featuring locally inspired dishes and drinks crafted with regional ingredients. The program highlights Mercure’s dedication to local culture and provides a… Read the full news article

Emirates Honors Johannesburg Teachers with Unique ‘Aircrafted’ Bags Made from Recycled Aircraft Materials

Premium cream leather backpacks made from repurposed aircraft materials gifted to 100 teachers in Alexandra, Johannesburg in recognition of their dedication to the next generation (IN SHORT) Emirates has honored 100 teachers in Alexandra, Johannesburg, by gifting them exclusive backpacks from its ‘Aircrafted by Emirates’ collection, made from upcycled materials from the airline’s A380 and… Read the full news article

Emirates Brings Diwali Festivities to the Skies with Special Treats and Entertainment for Passengers

(IN SHORT) Emirates is celebrating Diwali by offering special festive treats and entertainment on flights to and from India between October 28 and November 4. Passengers in all classes will enjoy traditional Diwali sweets like motichoor laddu and Pista rolls, while First and Business Class travelers have access to a wider range of delicacies in… Read the full news article

Qantas and Skytrans Partner to Ensure Continuity of Lord Howe Island Flights

(IN SHORT) Qantas has partnered with Skytrans to ensure continued air service between Sydney and Lord Howe Island as Qantas retires its Q200 aircraft. Skytrans will take over the route exclusively from February 26, 2026, under a licence from the New South Wales Government. A codeshare agreement will allow passengers to book Skytrans-operated flights on… Read the full news article

Hyatt Centric Makes Caribbean Debut with New Santo Domingo Hotel, Offering Culture and Convenience

Hyatt Centric Brand Continues to Expand its Strong Global Footprint with First Hotel in the Caribbean (IN SHORT) Hyatt has opened Hyatt Centric Santo Domingo, marking the brand’s debut in the Caribbean. Located in Santo Domingo’s Piantini district, the hotel features 130 rooms with local art-inspired decor and four dining venues, including a rooftop bar…. Read the full news article

Emirates Unveils Exclusive Moët & Chandon Champagne Pairing Experience in Dubai Lounge

(IN SHORT) Emirates has introduced a new champagne and canapés pairing experience at its Moët & Chandon Champagne Lounge in Dubai’s Concourse B Business Class Lounge. Featuring four select Moët & Chandon champagnes, each paired with meticulously crafted canapés, the menu is designed to enhance the unique flavors of each champagne. This complimentary lounge experience… Read the full news article

dnata Celebrates Decade as ‘Ground Handler of the Year’ with Continued Innovation and Sustainability

(IN SHORT) For the tenth consecutive year, dnata has been awarded ‘Ground Handler of the Year’ at the 2024 Air Cargo News Awards, recognizing its excellence in cargo services. The accolade highlights dnata’s dedication to safety, quality, and innovation, as seen in recent initiatives such as integrating drones and AI-powered solutions in its global operations,… Read the full news article

Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza Introduces Chef Gao Chunlong to Lead Chinese Cuisine at 8 Restaurant

(IN SHORT) Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza has appointed Chef Gao Chunlong as Chef de Cuisine at its celebrated 8 Restaurant. With over 20 years of experience, including time at the Michelin-starred Cai Yi Xuan at Four Seasons Beijing, Chef Gao brings a refined approach to traditional Chinese cuisine, blending authentic flavors with… Read the full news article