Travel Industry News Page 117
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ORIENT EXPRESS SAILING YACHTS AND GUERLAIN INTRODUCE OCEAN REBIRTH
A wellness retreat aboard the Orient Express Corinthian, set over the course of a transatlantic crossing. October 12–26, 2026: A time set aside for wellbeing, a pause for rest and regeneration, allowing for renewed attention to oneself.
OTAs now the top booking channel reshaping Australia and New Zealand’s experiences sector
Arival has released the second edition of its State of Experiences in Australia and New Zealand report, revealing a major shift in how travelers book tours, activities and attractions. Online travel agencies have become the single largest distribution channel across the region, overtaking operator websites and offline direct bookings. This marks a significant turning point for the sector as digital distribution continues to reshape how operators reach travelers. The findings reflect the importance of experiences to Australia's tourism, as the Australian Tourism Exchange 2026 wraps up this week. The digitization of experiences will also be a central topic at Arival 360 | Brisbane from 22 to 24 June
Marriott International Expands Luxury Portfolio in Peru Through Landmark Conversions
Marriott International, Inc. announced two significant luxury brand conversions in Lima, Peru, bringing two hotels into the company’s leading luxury portfolio. As part of the conversions, JW Marriott Hotel Lima will debut in Paseo Begonias, San Isidro, evolving from the former The Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center, while The Ritz-Carlton, Lima will arrive in Miraflores through the conversion of the current JW Marriott Hotel Lima. Both properties are set to join their new brand portfolios in 2028.
Minister Bartlett Calls on CARICOM to Prioritize Tourism as the Region’s Largest Economic Activity
Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett, and one of the Caribbean's most influential voices in global travel and tourism, has issued a bold call to action to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), urging member states to formally recognise tourism as the region's single largest economic activity and to act collectively to protect, develop, and future-proof the industry.
From Desert to Coast: Six Extraordinary Ways to Experience Namibia with O&L Leisure
As travellers increasingly prioritise authentic and unique escapes, O&L Leisure is spotlighting its six distinctive properties across Namibia - Strand Hotel Swakopmund, Mokuti Etosha, Le Mirage Sossusvlei, Chobe Water Villas Zambezi, Divava Okavango and Midgard Otjihavera Windhoek - all offering curated journeys through some of southern Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes.
Minor Hotels Signs Anantara Somabay Resort & Residences on Egypt’s Red Sea
Minor Hotels, a global hospitality leader with more than 640 properties in operation and committed development across 63 countries including Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and the Americas, has announced the signing of Anantara Somabay Resort & Residences, marking a significant milestone in the group’s strategic expansion in Egypt.
Malaysia Airlines Maintains Focus on Operational Consistency and Greater Flexibility for Travellers
Malaysia Airlines continues to focus on operational consistency and customer flexibility amid today's evolving operating environment. The airline maintained on-time performance (OTP) above 90% throughout April, marking the second consecutive month of average OTP above the 90% level, while consistently exceeding its 85% target since January 2026. This sustained performance reflects ongoing operational improvements across the network, including enhancements to boarding processes and on-ground support, contributing to a smoother and more dependable travel experience for customers.
PROMPERÚ Launches AI-powered Virtual Assistant to Enhance Travel Planning to Peru
In line with its innovation and digital transformation strategy, PROMPERÚ, Peru's tourism promotion agency, has officially launched an AI-powered virtual travel planning assistant, integrated into its official tourism portal Peru.travel, marking a new milestone in the promotion of the country as a travel destination.
Le Piaf, Paris Society’s Iconic Piano-Bar, Debuts at Emirates Towers
Paris Society, the hospitality group behind some of the most iconic dining and nightlife addresses globally, is bringing Le Piaf, its most celebrated piano-bar concept to Dubai for the first time. Opening May 20th at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Le Piaf marks the concept's first address outside of Europe.
Air Europa to Launch Operations at The New Terminal One at JFK
The New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport today announced that Air Europa will relocate its New York operations to the New Terminal One when the international terminal opens its first gates in 2026, marking an important milestone for the airline's growth in New York and enhancing direct connectivity between the United States and Spain.
BROWN'S HOTEL UNVEILS 'THE BROWN'S SEASON' IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LAURENT-PERRIER
This summer, Brown's Hotel unveils The Brown's Season, a curated programme of stays and experiences developed in partnership with Champagne Laurent-Perrier. Brown's Hotel brings together the very best of London's iconic summer events curating everything from VIP tickets and transport to fine dining and exclusive experiences. The programme covers some of the city's most in-demand experiences including the Chelsea Flower Show, Royal Ascot, Wimbledon, and cultural experiences including Photo London and a headline concert at Wembley, with the hotel's concierge team handling all arrangements.
Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona Commemorates The Gaudí Year
In 2026, Barcelona commemorates the centenary of Antoni Gaudí's death with an extraordinary cultural programme that coincides with the city's designation as the World Capital of Architecture. From its privileged setting on Passeig de Gràcia, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona debuts a curated portfolio of guest experiences that connects travellers to the architect's creative legacy. Ideally situated along this iconic boulevard, the hotel places guests within walking distance of the city's most emblematic architectural landmarks, allowing them to encounter Gaudí's masterpieces with ease.