Travel Industry News Page 294
MGallery announces the signing of V Villas Maldives at Mirihi – MGallery Collection
MGallery Collection, the boutique hotel collection within Accor Group's luxury division, is proud to announce the signing of V Villas Maldives at Mirihi – MGallery Collection, a distinctive all-villa resort scheduled to open by the beginning of 2026 in the heart of the Maldives, located on the secluded and natural island of Mirihi in the South Ari Atoll. This inspiring transformation will mark MGallery's debut in the Maldives, adding to the brand's global collection of singular, story-inspired hotels.
ORIENT EXPRESS AND GUERLAIN UNVEIL AN UNPRECEDENTED ODYSSEY INTO THE ART OF WELLNESS
In June 2026, Orient Express will set sail on an extraordinary new voyage, unveiling the Guerlain Spa aboard Orient Express Sailing Yachts, the most singular maritime wellness destination ever imagined.
The Signing of Centara Life Osaka
Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, has announced the signing of Centara Life Osaka, marking the group’s second property in Japan and further strengthening its presence in one of Asia’s most dynamic hospitality markets. Located in the heart of Osaka, the 300-key hotel is conveniently situated near multiple train and subway stations, just 450 metres from Centara Grand Hotel Osaka. Beyond supporting Centara’s long-term international expansion strategy, this close proximity will foster a shared ecosystem between the two Osaka properties, enhancing operational efficiency, guest experience synergies, and brand awareness in Japan.
The Library by The Macallan Returns to Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler
This winter, Whistler’s most refined whisky experience returns as Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler reopens The Library by The Macallan for its third season. Guests are invited to embark on a journey through whisky artistry, celebrating more than two centuries of craftsmanship. The experience showcases a curated selection of The Macallan’s finest expressions, all framed by Whistler’s breathtaking winter wonderland. Upon its return, The Library introduces unique new elements designed to elevate this beloved alpine tradition.
Baltic View Resort & Spa, a member of Radisson Individuals, debuts in Międzyzdroje
Radisson Hotel Group has expanded its Polish portfolio with the opening of Baltic View Resort & Spa, a member of Radisson Individuals, located in Międzyzdroje on the Baltic coast. Set along the seaside promenade and only steps from the town’s iconic pier, the new resort features 60 rooms, a swimming pool, sauna and relaxation room and kids club.
Kempinski Hotels Welcomes the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
As winter unfolds and the year reaches its close, Kempinski celebrates the most wonderful time of year with celebrations across the global constellation and a digital journey into the heart and history of Kempinski.
William Fisher Appointed General Manager of the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel of Hilton proudly introduces William Fisher as the newly appointed General Manager. With more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Fisher will guide one of Rome’s most iconic addresses into its next chapter, combining operational excellence with a commitment to sustainability and elevated guest experiences. Fisher joins Rome Cavalieri following his tenure as General Manager of the Hilton London Metropole, one of Europe’s largest conference and leisure hotels, where he led the successful refurbishment of the hotel’s public spaces.
European Waterways Unveils New 2026/27 Brochure
European Waterways has announced the launch of its brand-new brochure for the 2026/27 cruise seasons, offering an inspiring look at the company's fully inclusive luxury hotel barge experiences across Europe. Designed to help travellers plan their next unforgettable journey, the brochure highlights expert guidance on the best times to travel, curated off-the-beaten-path excursions, and a fleet of elegant vessels that showcase the rich character of each cruising region. “In a world where travel increasingly feels like a race, the serenity of Europe's canals offers something wonderfully different,” said Derek Banks, Founder and Managing Director of European Waterways. “Hotel barging brings stillness, authenticity, and moments of genuine spontaneity - luxuries that are becoming all too rare.”
EVA Air, Evergreen Air Cargo Services and Evergreen Airline Services Corp. Earn IATA CEIV
EVA Air, Evergreen Air Cargo Services (EGAC) and Evergreen Airline Services Corp. (EGAS), which collectively obtained CEIV Lithium Batteries from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in January this year, have once again joined forces to earn dual professional certifications for CEIV Fresh and CEIV Live Animals, becoming one of the few airline systems worldwide to simultaneously hold three accreditations across airline operations, cargo warehousing, and ground handling services. This achievement highlights EVA Air and its affiliated service companies' strong integration capabilities and international-level service quality in special cargo transportation.
Santan Crowned Industry Champion at ACES Awards 2025
Santan, the F&B business of Capital A, has been officially selected as a winner of the Industry Champions of the Year Award at the Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability Awards 2025 (ACES), which recognises outstanding leadership and innovation across Asia. In addition, Catherine Goh, CEO of Santan, has been recognised under the Asia’s Most Admirable Young Leaders Award category.
Chihuahua, a Destination Set to Trend in 2026
Chihuahua is a land of dramatic contrasts—mountains, deep canyons, desert dunes, rivers, wildlife, historic towns, and vibrant Indigenous culture—inviting travelers to reconnect with nature and themselves. Home to a canyon system twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and surrounded by five “Pueblos Mágicos,” the region is deeply shaped by the traditions of the Rarámuri people, famed globally for their endurance and long-distance running. It’s also the birthplace of sotol, a centuries-old distilled spirit now gaining international attention ahead of 2026. Throughout the year, Chihuahua’s diverse landscapes will host more than 100 adventure events—including ultramarathons, climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding—as it celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Adventure Tourism International Festival (FITA).
Turkish Airlines Partners with Samsung to Launch Smart Tagged Baggage Service
Turkish Airlines, the airline flying to more countries than any other, has entered into a partnership with Samsung, marking yet another milestone towards its digital transformation efforts aimed at enhancing the travel comfort of its guests. Beginning on December 1, passengers will be able to seamlessly track their baggage using Smart Tagged Baggage Service, powered by SmartThings Find, which enables faster and more efficient tracking of misplaced or delayed baggage that is equipped with Galaxy SmartTag.