Travel Industry News Page 167
OKUPA BRINGS A NEW GENERATION OF URBAN HOSPITALITY TO THE GREEK CAPITAL
One year after opening in the heart of Athens’ vibrant Psiri district, Okupa enters a new chapter, following a first year shaped by local recognition and word-of-mouth cult following among the city’s creative community. A new and next-generation expression of Athenian hospitality, Okupa was conceived for the modern traveller looking for an alternative to conventional boutique hospitality. Created not for a specific demographic but for those with a shared sensibility, Okupa reflects a more fluid, contemporary way of experiencing Athens — one where design, gastronomy, culture, music and people coexist within a single urban setting.
Luxury Group by Marriott International Unveils “Art of Arrival,”
In celebration of this year’s Hong Kong Art Month, Luxury Group by Marriott International unveils “Art of Arrival,” a new artist residency program that invites emerging Chinese artist Chen Zuo to present a journey across place and perspective. Through an immersive residency, a commissioned piece, and an international exhibition circuit, “Art of Arrival” transforms arrival into a creative journey – inviting guests and audiences to experience the intersection of place, imagination, and design.
CHTA AND TRIPTEASE TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL DIRECT BOOKING SUMMIT CARIBBEAN IN ANTIGUA & BARBUDA
As Caribbean hoteliers face mounting distribution costs and intensifying competition for direct guest relationships, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) and Triptease are bringing proven, revenue-focused solutions to the region. Now in its second year, the Direct Booking Summit (DBS) Caribbean edition returns on Thursday, May 15, 2026, at Sandals Grande Antigua — immediately following the 2026 Caribbean Travel Marketplace.
Relax, Reset, Ready to Fly: Virgin Atlantic reveals revamped Heathrow Clubhouse
Virgin Atlantic is delighted to unveil its refreshed Clubhouse at London Heathrow following the first phase of a redesign and refurbishment. Enhancing the experience on the ground for Upper Class customers the new space offers a new cinema area, work pods, a new Royal Box VIP area and a refreshed Gallery space bringing together elevated comfort, modern style and a sense of calm before you fly. For guests seeking a moment of wellbeing before take-off, two luxurious new pop-up wellness experiences have arrived in the Clubhouse. Three self-guided Somadomes offer immersive meditation designed to calm and reset, while a new partnership with Secret Spa introduces a curated menu of dreamy treatments. Together, they create the perfect opportunity to relax, refresh and feel ready to fly.
MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy Unveils ‘Best of Both Worlds’ Moments Series
MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy® today announced a new marquee Marriott Bonvoy MomentsTM series, “Best of Both Worlds,” that pairs iconic MGM Collection properties in Las Vegas with extraordinary Marriott Bonvoy hotels around the globe. These unique packages give travelers exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime dual-destination experiences combining entertainment and culinary excellence with best-in-class accommodations, while highlighting the best of the groundbreaking partnership between Marriott International and MGM Resorts.
Dusit Hotels and Resorts joins GSTC in support of sustainable hospitality worldwide
Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel management arm of Dusit International, has joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, marking a significant step in the company’s ongoing efforts to embed responsible practices throughout its global operations. GSTC is a global non-profit organisation that brings together public and private sector stakeholders to advance sustainable tourism practices worldwide. By joining as a member, Dusit becomes part of a global network committed to knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and the promotion of responsible tourism principles across the industry.
4th edition of the Istanbul Tourism Fair will take place on September 24-25 2026
Organisers are pleased to announce the 4th edition of the Istanbul Tourism Fair, which will take place on September 24-25 2026, at the Yenikapı Eurasia Show and Art Center. This premier event will provide a dynamic platform for tourism professionals from Türkiye and around the world to explore new opportunities, foster collaborations, and discover the latest products and services shaping the industry.
Il Salviatino Appoints New General Manager, Joao Mendes de Almeida
Il Salviatino, situated within 12 hectares of centuries-old gardens with sweeping views of Florence’s iconic Duomo, is pleased to announce the appointment of new General Manager, Joao Mendes de Almeida, and Director of Operations, Stephanie Loison. Having worked with some of the finest luxury hotels in Europe, the couple bring exceptional expertise and leadership to their new roles.
Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Expands with 11 New Slides and Attractions
Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, has announced that its latest expansion of Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi will open to guests on April 4, 2026. The expansion marks the next stage of the waterpark’s ‘Lost City’ theming expansion, building on Yas Waterworld’s story of ‘The Legend of The Lost Pearl’. The development will introduce eight new slides, two jumping platforms and a lounging pool.
airBaltic becomes first Starlink-connected airline to implement AirMall by InterLnkd
Latvian airline airBaltic has partnered with InterLnkd to integrate AirMall into its Skynet onboard Wi-Fi portal, becoming the first Starlink-connected airline to launch a global, dynamic inflight shopping mall experience for its passengers. AirMall by InterLnkd turns the carrier’s Wi-Fi portal into an airline-branded retail channel on passengers’ own devices, connecting travellers to 20,000+ brands in the air with zero onboard stock or crew involvement. The provider-agnostic solution offers tailored recommendations, loyalty integration, and flexible post-flight delivery options.
Omio launches in this year’s hottest destination, empowering travellers to explore Japan like never
Japan is the country everyone’s talking about. From the National Geographic cover to Vogue and Conde Nast Traveller naming it as one of the top places to visit in 2026, interest in the Land of the Rising Sun continues to surge. Today, Omio launches in its 47th market, with a high-profile rollout in Japan, marking a step-change in how international travellers navigate the country. From the ultra-high-speed Shinkansen bullet trains to vast regional rail networks, long-distance buses, domestic flights, extensive ferry routes and Japan Rail Passes, the platform unifies one of the world’s most sophisticated transport ecosystems into a seamless experience.
Cruise.co.uk and Ambassador team up for special country music voyage
Cruise.co.uk has partnered with Ambassador Cruise Line to launch an exclusive new ‘Nashville Nights’ country music sailing. Departing from Tilbury, Essex, on March 25, 2027, the four-night cruise will host a number of themed events onboard the 1,400-guest Ambience. Country music quizzes, dining, silent discos and fitness sessions will feature, alongside line dancing classes and open mic sessions for aspiring singer-songwriters.