Swissôtel Launches Annual Vitality Week to Inspire Guests Toward Healthier Lifestyles

(IN SHORT) Swissôtel has launched its annual Vitality Week, running from October 7 to 13, 2024, across more than 30 locations worldwide. The initiative encourages guests to embrace a lifestyle focused on everyday vitality, highlighting simple pleasures like nutritious meals and outdoor activities. Rooted in Swiss heritage, Swissôtel offers authentic cultural experiences and wellness-oriented amenities…. Read the full press release

Thompson Palm Springs: A New Era of Style and Cultural Engagement Opens in Palm Springs

Hyatt’s Newest California Hotel Brings Culinary Excellence, Curated Art Programming and Locally Inspired Touches to the Bustling Downtown Region (IN SHORT) Thompson Palm Springs has officially opened its doors, marking a vibrant addition to the downtown Palm Springs area. Developed by Hyatt Hotels Corporation, this stylish hotel spans two-and-a-half city blocks along Palm Canyon Drive… Read the full press release

Moxy Hotels Unveils Moxy Barcelona: A New Social Hub in Spain’s Vibrant Sants Neighborhood

(IN SHORT) Moxy Hotels has officially launched Moxy Barcelona, marking its entry into Spain and positioning the hotel as a vibrant social hub in the lively Sants neighborhood. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Moxy Hotels aims to deliver playful and immersive experiences for guests. The hotel features 414 modern rooms with local artwork, a lively Bar… Read the full press release

Marriott International Launches Innovative Tech Accelerator in Hyderabad, India

(IN SHORT) Marriott International has announced the launch of its first global capability center (GCC), the Marriott Tech Accelerator, in Hyderabad, India, set to open in early 2025. This center aims to leverage Hyderabad’s rich tech talent to enhance Marriott’s global technology operations, engineering, and security systems across its extensive network in 141 countries. Drew… Read the full press release

AirAsia X Partners with Kenya Tourism Board to Boost Tourism Ahead of Direct Flights from Nairobi to Kuala Lumpur

(IN SHORT) AirAsia X (AAX) has partnered with the Kenya Tourism Board to enhance tourism and connectivity between Asia and Africa, coinciding with the launch of direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi on November 15, 2024. This collaboration will feature joint marketing initiatives and promotional activities aimed at attracting more tourists and boosting economic… Read the full press release

Aer Lingus Launches New Direct Flights from Dublin to Nashville, Starting April 2025

New direct route from Dublin to Nashville will commence on 12th April, 2025, with four flights per week on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday This new route will be operated by an Airbus A321XLR, offering greater fuel efficiency, comfort and the latest in-flight technology Fares start from €499 return, including taxes, fees and carrier charges. (IN SHORT)… Read the full press release

SAS and Virgin Atlantic Forge Codeshare Partnership to Expand Global Travel Options

(IN SHORT) Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and Virgin Atlantic have announced a new codeshare partnership set to launch on October 7, 2024. This collaboration will enhance travel options between Scandinavia and various international destinations, including new routes to Barbados, Antigua, and Jamaica. SAS customers will have access to Virgin Atlantic’s network via Heathrow, while Virgin Atlantic… Read the full press release

Swissport Launches Dedicated Pet Lounge at Johannesburg Airport to Elevate Travel for Unaccompanied Animals

(IN SHORT) Swissport International AG has opened a new Pet Lounge at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, specifically designed for unaccompanied pets. The facility aims to enhance the travel experience for animals, providing a calm environment with amenities such as fresh water, air conditioning, and soothing music. CEO Khangi Khoza highlighted the lounge’s role in… Read the full press release

Sofitel Unveils First Branded Residences in Dubai, Elevating Luxury Living in Downtown Area

Sofitel is thrilled to announce a key milestone as part of its strategic growth plan with the signing of its first branded residences in the United Arab Emirates: Sofitel Residences Downtown Dubai. Combining the luxurious service of a 5-star hotel with the comfort of home, this development introduces 70 exceptional residences, offering a private haven… Read the full press release

SILVERSEA ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR SOUTHERNMOST HOTEL ON EARTH TO ELEVATE ANTARCTICA EXPEDITIONS

The 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams will provide travelers with a uniquely seamless journey of unparalleled comfort to explore the ‘White Continent (IN SHORT) Silversea has announced the development of a new 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, the southernmost city in the world, aimed at enhancing the travel experience for guests visiting Antarctica. The… Read the full press release

Swissport Introduces Pet Lounge at Johannesburg Airport to Enhance Animal Travel Experience

(IN SHORT) Swissport International AG has launched a dedicated Pet Lounge at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport to improve the travel experience for unaccompanied pets. This new facility emphasizes animal welfare and operational excellence, offering a calm environment with amenities like water service, air conditioning, and soothing music. The lounge includes an acceptance area for… Read the full press release

UN Tourism and TUI Care Foundation Launch ‘Colourful Cultures’ Initiative to Empower Rural Artisans Across Africa

(IN SHORT) UN Tourism, in partnership with the TUI Care Foundation, has launched the “Colourful Cultures” small grants initiative to support rural artisans across several African countries, including Morocco, Mozambique, and South Africa. This program invites civil society organizations and NGOs to submit proposals for projects aimed at empowering local artists, especially women and youth,… Read the full press release

Alaska Airlines and UP.Labs Unveil Odysee, a Revolutionary AI-Driven Flight Scheduling Startup

Alaska Airlines and UP.Labs have introduced their first startup, Odysee, at the UP.Summit. The venture aims to solve core strategic challenges for the aviation industry through innovative solutions. Odysee is an innovative, new flight schedule optimization software platform that leverages AI and big data to optimize asset configuration for the airline industry and other logistics… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways Holidays Unveils Exclusive Travel Packages for El Clásico Legends Match

Doha to host legends match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid on 28 November 2024 Unique fan packages will give fans an all-inclusive experience with flights, hotels and match tickets (IN SHORT) Qatar Airways, in partnership with Qatar Tourism, has announced exclusive travel packages for fans to attend the Legends El Clásico match between FC… Read the full press release

Qatar Airways Launches New Non-Stop Service to Toronto, Strengthening Canadian Presence

The World’s Best Airline will operate three-weekly non-stop flights to Toronto Pearson International Airport – its 14th destination in the Americas and second gateway to Canada, from December 2024 (IN SHORT) Qatar Airways is set to launch non-stop flights to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) starting December 11, 2024, with three weekly flights. This addition marks… Read the full press release

IHG Hotels & Resorts Commemorates 60 Years in Japan and Outlines Future Expansion Plans

(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts is celebrating its 60th anniversary in Japan, a milestone marking its entry into the market with the InterContinental brand in 1964. The company highlights its successful growth through local partnerships and strategic expansion, including a significant joint venture with ANA in 2006. Currently the second-largest international hotel company in… Read the full press release

IHG Hotels & Resorts and APSN Renew Partnership to Support Inclusive Employment and Training Programs in Singapore

(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has renewed its strategic partnership with APSN, a social service agency for individuals with mild intellectual disabilities, through a new three-year agreement. This partnership will continue to provide employment opportunities, on-the-job training, and internships for APSN students across IHG hotels in Singapore. The initiative supports IHG’s long-term commitment to… Read the full press release

IHG Introduces Vignette Collection to Egypt with New Luxury Hotel in Historic Port Said

With a brand promise of curating one-of-a-kind stays, the latest Vignette Collection signing strengthens IHG’s growth in the luxury and lifestyle segment across the MENA region (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the debut of its Vignette Collection brand in Egypt, following a management agreement with Maxim Hotels and Resorts Management. Set to… Read the full press release

Qantas Launches First A380 Flights to Africa, Expands Codeshare Network with Airlink

(IN SHORT) Qantas has introduced its first-ever Airbus A380 flights to Johannesburg, boosting capacity between Australia and South Africa by nearly 130,000 seats annually. The new service, operating up to six times a week, reintroduces First Class and significantly increases Premium Economy options on the route. In addition, Qantas has partnered with Johannesburg-based Airlink to… Read the full press release

Qantas Unveils ‘Australia in the Sky’ Campaign to Boost US-Australia Travel with Iconic Aussie Flair

(IN SHORT) Qantas has launched a new brand campaign, “Australia in the Sky,” in the North American market, the first in a decade, as demand for travel between the US and Australia grows. Directed by Australian filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, the campaign showcases Australian talent and highlights iconic locations such as Bondi Beach and Sydney Harbour…. Read the full press release

Qantas Freight Becomes First Operator at Western Sydney’s New 24/7 Cargo Hub

(IN SHORT) Qantas Freight has become the first freight airline to sign on with Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport’s new 24-hour Cargo Precinct. This partnership is expected to increase Sydney’s air cargo capacity by 33% and provide dedicated access to major logistics centres. Qantas’ facility will include 14,000 square metres of warehousing and support its… Read the full press release

IHG Hotels & Resorts Extends Partnership with APSN for Three More Years Offering Apprenticeships and Training Programs Across Singapore Hotels

Apprenticeships and training programmes across all IHG hotels in Singapore (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has renewed its strategic partnership with APSN for another three years, continuing to support individuals with mild intellectual disabilities through employment, training, and volunteering programs across its hotels in Singapore. This partnership offers full-time jobs and internships for APSN… Read the full press release

IHG Celebrates 60 Years in Japan and Unveils Bold Growth Plans for the Future

(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts celebrates its 60th anniversary in Japan, marking six decades since the introduction of the InterContinental brand to the Japanese market in 1964. The company reflects on its growth, highlighting the 2006 joint venture with ANA, Japan’s largest airline, which helped expand its presence in the country. IHG now operates… Read the full press release

Accor’s Mercure Brand Hits 1,000 Hotels, Expands Globally with Strong Focus on China and Japan

As a locally inspired midscale brand with a diverse global network, Mercure delivers strong brand recognition, attractive price premiums, and adaptable design approach (IN SHORT) Accor’s Mercure brand has reached the milestone of 1,000 hotels worldwide, driven by significant global expansion, particularly in China and Japan. The brand, known for its locally inspired midscale accommodations,… Read the full press release

World’s Tallest All-Hotel Tower Ciel Joins IHG’s Vignette Collection in Dubai

A landmark addition to the Dubai Marina Skyline, the 80-plus storey luxurious hotel with over 1000 keys is set to open its doors in 2025 (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has partnered with The First Group to bring Ciel, set to be the world’s tallest all-hotel tower, into its Vignette Collection. Scheduled to open… Read the full press release

IHG Expands in Türkiye with First Garner Hotel Near Istanbul International Airport

IHG’s newest midscale conversion brand continues its expansion across Southern Europe (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a franchise agreement with FRT Turizm to open the first Garner hotel in Türkiye, located near the Istanbul International Airport. This 126-room hotel, set to open in 2025, marks the expansion of IHG’s midscale Garner brand… Read the full press release

IHG and Aldar Partner to Transform Yas Island Hotels into Luxury Resort

Straylight Yas, Vignette Collection will open during Q4 2025 on Yas Island, one of the UAE’s leading tourist destinations The partnership will also see Aldar’s resort in Al Dhafra upgraded to a five-star Vignette Collection resort, offering a unique luxury desert retreat experience (IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts is partnering with Aldar to transform… Read the full press release

TFE Hotels Partners with Heritage Hotels to Expand and Refurbish New Zealand Properties

(IN SHORT) TFE Hotels has formed a strategic partnership with Heritage Hotels, one of New Zealand’s leading accommodation providers, to manage more than 500 rooms across five properties. Under this agreement, TFE Hotels will oversee properties in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown, bringing its expertise in hotel management to the Heritage Hotels portfolio. Plans are… Read the full press release

Hyatt Expands Luxury and Lifestyle Footprint with New Properties Across the Americas

Hyatt adds new properties in new markets and expands wellbeing offerings to enrich the guest experience (IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation is expanding its luxury and lifestyle offerings with over 20 new properties planned across the Americas by 2025. This strategic growth aims to enhance its presence in emerging markets, catering to a rising demand… Read the full press release

Hyatt to Launch Andaz Gold Coast: First Luxury Resort of Its Kind in Australia Set for 2025

Andaz Gold Coast is set to debut in 2025 as part of The Star Gold Coast, a world-class integrated resort (IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans to open the Andaz Gold Coast in mid-2025, marking the brand’s debut in Australia. This new luxury resort will be part of The Star Gold Coast, a… Read the full press release