Travel Industry News Page 179
Maldives emerges as key travel hub as private jet arrivals surge
The Maldives is reinforcing its role as a global tourism hub as rising private jet arrivals and additional airline services offset aviation disruptions linked to unrest in the Middle East. Recent data from Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) shows a sharp rise in private aviation traffic. A total of 128 private jets landed in the Maldives between 28 February and 14 March, a 166 percent increase compared to the same period last year when 70 aircraft arrived. The figures indicate a clear shift in travel patterns among high-end travellers seeking direct access to the island destination.
Isle of Man Experiences partners with Virgin Experience Days to reach UK gift market
Isle of Man Experiences, a recently launched brand by tour operator Duke Travel, has boosted its presence across the UK through an exclusive new partnership with Virgin Experience Days. The move places the Island’s unique offerings directly into the hands of a national audience looking for the perfect gift, experience or short trip.
Tivoli Hotels & Resorts Announces Its Third Property in Brazil
Tivoli Hotels & Resorts is proud to announce the opening of Tivoli Maiorana Belem Pará Hotel, the brand's third property in Brazil and its first in the country's Northern region, located in the heart of the city of Belém, the capital of Pará state. After hosting COP30 last November, Belém has been attracting the world's attention not only for its environmental importance — known as the gateway to the Amazon — but also for its vibrant cultural and gastronomic scene.
Virgin Voyages unveils Indian restaurant on Valiant Lady
Virgin Voyages has announced the debut of a modern Indian restaurant, named ‘Ariya’, exclusively on Valiant Lady following her dry dock this May. Developed in partnership with Indie Culinaire by acclaimed celebrity chef, television personality and cookbook author, Maneet Chauhan, Ariya will offer Sailors (guests) a range of Indian cuisine, pairing known classics with coastal flavours and regional specialities.
ICELANDAIR: RECORD NUMBER OF PASSENGERS, LOAD FACTOR AND ONTIME PERFORMANCE IN FEBRUARY
In February 2026, Icelandair transported 289 thousand passengers, 15% more than in February last year. Passenger distribution in February was as follows: 42% were traveling to Iceland, 21% from Iceland, 30% were via passengers, and 7% traveled within Iceland. The number of passengers to and from Iceland increased by 20% and 19% respectively, reflecting the Company’s current focus on these markets. Load factor was 79.9%, and on-time performance was 88.9%, an impressive increase of 8.4 ppt between years.
Civitatis strengthens its presence in Latin America with a new network of strategic hubs
Civitatis, the world’s leading platform for guided tours and excursions in Spanish and Portuguese, has announced the implementation of a new operational architecture in Latin America. This ambitious restructuring responds to the consolidation of Latin America as one of the world’s fastest-growing tourism markets.
PARIS SOCIETY RESTAURANTS OFFER WELCOMING SPACES TO GATHER ACROSS THE UAE
Across the UAE, Paris Society (formerly Rikas Hospitality Group) continues to create thoughtful dining experiences where people can gather, share meals, and spend time together in welcoming surroundings. Whether enjoying favourite dishes at home or meeting around the table, the group’s restaurants remain places where everyday moments of hospitality continue to unfold. With Eid and UAE Mother’s Day approaching, the venues offer opportunities to step out, enjoy the sunshine, and share time with family and friends. Below is a selection of experiences across Dubai for those looking to spend time together and enjoy the simple pleasures of dining out.
FHS Africa 2026 Announces Award Recipients: Vimbai Masiyiwa and Colin Bell to Be Honoured in Nairobi
FHS Africa, organised by The Bench, is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of the prestigious FHS Africa Awards. This year’s honourees are Vimbai Masiyiwa, Co-Founder and CEO of Batoka Africa, who will receive the Leadership Award, and Colin Bell, CEO of Natural Selection and former CEO of Wilderness, who will receive the Outstanding Contribution to Hospitality Award.
How Off-Grid Cabins Enhance Eco-Tourism Experiences
Learn how off-grid coastal cabins in Haida Gwaii support eco-tourism by using local cedar and sustainable power to protect the Pacific Northwest wilderness.
Hyatt Strengthens All-Inclusive Portfolio in the Dominican Republic
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with Codelpa, the existing owner of Secrets Tides Punta Cana, for a family-friendly all-inclusive resort, Hyatt Ziva Punta Cana. Expected to open in 2029, this new build resort will be one of the brand’s flagship properties and will feature 650 guestrooms, including an adult-only building, as well as family-friendly amenities ideal for all ages, just 40 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport.
Hyatt Announces the Opening of Andaz Lisbon
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the opening of Andaz Lisbon, marking the brand’s debut in Portugal and a significant milestone in Hyatt’s thoughtful refinement of its Lifestyle brands and targeted growth strategy across the region. Set within Lisbon’s historic Baixa neighborhood, Andaz Lisbon places guests at the center of the city’s cultural and architectural legacy. With views of the Praça do Comércio and Tagus River waterfront, the hotel is in close proximity to the vibrant cafés, charming boutiques, and dynamic nightlife the city is known for. Andaz Lisbon invites guests to experience the city through a locally attuned lens.
IHG Hotels & Resorts Announces Michael Hoe Knudsen New Managing Director for MLAC
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, announces the appointment of Michael Hoe Knudsen as Managing Director for Mexico, Latin America & the Caribbean (MLAC), following the retirement of long-standing former region leader Jorge Apaez. Michael brings three decades of global hospitality experience across the Americas, Europe and Greater China, and will lead the region with a strong focus on future growth, operational excellence, and deepening owner and stakeholder relationships.