Travel Industry News Page 88
Castilla y León shows how accessible tourism is emerging as an alternative to overtourism in Europe
Accessibility and senior tourism are increasingly becoming strategic factors in the competitiveness of European tourist destinations. This is highlighted by IMPULSA IGUALDAD — a leading organisation in accessible tourism in Spain — and TUR4all Travel, an accessible travel agency, which point out how Europe’s ageing population, together with the impact of overtourism, is accelerating demand for more accessible, quieter and lower-density destinations. Accessibility is no longer viewed solely as a matter of regulatory compliance, but as a key element in tourism planning and visitor experience. This trend is accompanied by the growth of senior tourism, a segment that prioritises comfort, accessibility, safety, contact with nature and high-quality cultural experiences.
Arabian Travel Market 2026 moved again as Dubai show shifts to September
Arabian Travel Market 2026 has been rescheduled again, with organisers confirming the event will now take place from 14–17 September 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre. The latest move shifts the event from its previously announced 17–20 August 2026 dates, which had already replaced the original 4–7 May 2026 schedule.
The Alps' Next Act: Wellness, Longevity and Five-Star Luxury
Rising demand for premium accommodation and wellbeing-led travel is reshaping the Alpine holiday market. Luxury alpine holidays are entering a new phase, and it has less to do with skiing than with wellness. For decades the Alps have been marketed primarily as a winter sports destination. But a combination of shifting travel habits, rising demand for premium accommodation and growing interest in wellness is quietly transforming how the region is positioned to UK travellers.
The Merchant River Cruise Sets Sail in May 2026 on the Thu Bon River, Hoi An, Vietnam
The Merchant River Cruise, Hoi An's most anticipated luxury dinner cruise experience, sets sail this May 2026, bringing an entirely new dimension to evenings on the Thu Bon River. Equal parts signature dinner cruise, private events venue, and floating cultural celebration, The Merchant River Cruise, owned by Namia River Retreat, is set to become one of Central Vietnam's most distinctive and sought-after experiences on the water.
Bermuda Tourism Authority Announces New Chief Executive Officer: Jan Hutton
The Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) has selected Jan Hutton as its next Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Hutton is a respected global tourism leader and most recently the Chief Executive Officer of Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW). She is a trusted advisor to governments, businesses, and international organisations driving destination competitiveness.
JA Resorts & Hotels Announces Strategic Enhancements Across Its Dubai Portfolio
JA Resorts & Hotels has shaped Dubai’s hospitality landscape for over four decades. The brand has built its reputation not on scale alone, but on properties that endure — places guests return to over time, from Dubai and around the world. As JA Resorts & Hotels prepares for the upcoming launch of its state-of-the-art Jebel Ali Sports & Shooting Club this summer, the brand is progressing a series of enhancements across its Dubai portfolio.
DECOY BOOK COVERS HELP BRITS HIDE RAUNCHY READS
New research reveals that almost one in four (23%) avoid reading their spicy novels in the open over fears of judgemental glances from strangers, with almost half (48%) admitting they feel stigma over it. Despite the nation’s obsession with romantasy novels being hotter than ever, with the category dominating the inaugural #BookTok Bestseller List, 59% of Brits feel people can be dismissive about romantasy as ‘serious’ reading. As a result, the nation’s favourite genre is still being kept under wraps, with 27% of readers skipping or skimming a romance scene and 3 in 10 (29%) even admitting to abandoning a book over fear of judgement.
Namron Hospitality Elevates Culinary Offerings Across Its Portfolio, Debuting New Concepts & Menus
The award-winning boutique brand behind some of Mexico’s most acclaimed restaurants, including the Michelin Guide-recognized NÜ in Tulum, Namron Hospitality is renowned for designing and operating unique, curated dining experiences that harmonize with the bespoke hotels under its banner. Today, Namron is proud to announce the next chapter in its culinary journey, debuting a slate of new, innovative concepts and menus across the portfolio.
CARIBBEAN TRAVEL FORUM 2026 IDENTIFIES KEY PRIORITIES SHAPING THE FUTURE OF REGIONAL TOURISM
Last week, the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) convened the Caribbean Travel Forum (CTF) at Sandals Grand Antigua, where public and private sector stakeholders from across the region gathered to discuss the commercial future of Caribbean tourism.
HGV Unveils Star-Studded Concert Lineup for F1 Las Vegas 2026 (Bebe Rexha, Tucker Wetmore, and more)
Hilton Grand Vacations Inc, the premier vacation ownership and experiences company, announced its return as an official event partner of the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2026, set for Nov. 19-21. For the fourth consecutive year, the company will host its exclusive HGV Clubhouse, a landmark trackside hospitality experience that provides members and guests with unparalleled access, premium amenities and high-energy entertainment on the Las Vegas Strip.
Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence Partners with Xploratur to Drive Inclusive Tourism
Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence, the industry’s trusted bridge between cruise lines and destinations, has completed specialized training for Dominican Republic tour operator Xploratur to support the launch of “Xploratur Access,” a new division of accessible excursions designed for the cruise market.
The Phocuswright Conference 2026 to tackle AI disruption
Phocuswright this week announced the theme for its 2026 annual conference: Pressures. Power. Pivots. A framework for examining the forces reshaping how demand is created, captured and converted across the travel industry. Registration is now open, with an early-rate window offering $800 in savings that closes May 29.