Travel Industry News Page 296
William A. Gibbs Joins roomangel Foundation to drive global expansion of ‘hive’ AI Platform
The roomangel Foundation, a pioneering nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing transparency and fairness in the hospitality industry, today announces the appointment of William A. Gibbs as Senior Advisor - Strategy & Growth. Gibbs joins the Foundation to spearhead the global expansion of hive, the organization’s flagship AI platform. Functioning as a connected intelligence layer, hive enables hotels to leverage complex data to optimize yield, reduce reliance on intermediaries, and prepare for the next era of Agentic AI in travel. In this pivotal role, Gibbs will oversee strategy, commercial growth, and operational excellence, shaping hive’s product-market fit and accelerating adoption among hotel groups, asset managers, and owners worldwide.
Travelsoft and Gekko Group join forces to expand global hotel distribution
Travelsoft, a provider of technology solutions for the travel industry, and Gekko Group, a leading player in B2B hotel distribution, announce the launch of a strategic partnership. The agreement enables the integration of the hotel inventories of Teldar Travel and Infinite, two brands of the Gekko Group, into Travelgate and Travel Compositor, two platforms within the Travelsoft portfolio.
Negril Set to Fully Reopen by 15 December as Bartlett Hails Rapid Tourism Recovery and Investment
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has declared that Negril will officially reopen for business on December 15, 2025 following a rapid and coordinated recovery effort after the passage of Hurricane Melissa.
GoNexus Group closes a landmark year
GoNexus Group, a leading experiences and mobility travel company, has closed the 2024–2025 fiscal year —ending in September— with historic growth that marks a turning point for the organization. During this period, GoNexus Group served 7.4 million combined experiences and mobility customers, firmly consolidating its position as one of the most significant operators in the regional tourism industry. This scale-up also translated into 6.25 million passengers transported, an 8% year-on-year increase, and more than 511,000 excursion bookings, enabling 1.15 million travelers to enjoy curated in-destination experiences.
Waldorf Astoria Osaka Presents: “A Legacy of Elegance” – A New York Holiday Celebration
This season, Waldorf Astoria Osaka debuts an exclusive festive afternoon tea, inspired by the glamour of Manhattan and Tiffany & Co.’s timeless artistry. Available exclusively at Peacock Alley, the hotel’s elevated 29th-floor lounge, the collaboration marks Tiffany & Co.’s inaugural partnership with Waldorf Astoria in Japan.
Minor Hotels Travel Trends Report Reveals Optimism and Travellers’ Search for Connection in 2026
Travellers are rethinking how they move through the world, seeking multidimensional experiences that resonate emotionally, relationally and spiritually, finds a new report published by global hospitality leader Minor Hotels. Released today, the inaugural Minor Hotels Travel Trends Report, entitled ‘Travelling Deeper: A Search for Lasting Connection’, explores various dimensions of connection – to others, oneself and destinations – and illustrates the shift for hotels from simply delivering service to helping guests find meaning through their journeys.
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.