Travel Industry News Page 46
G Adventures resumes Jordan departures following eased travel advisories
After a three month pause due to the conflict in the Middle East, community tourism pioneer G Adventures is resuming operations in Jordan following the relaxation of UK travel advisories to the region. With departures recommencing from 1 August, travellers can once again explore iconic destinations including Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and the ancient city of Jerash. "We’ve always been quick to return to destinations as soon as it is safe to do so, because we’ve seen time and again the vital role tourism plays in supporting local communities and livelihoods,” said Michelle Hudema, Chief Operating Officer for G Adventures.
The Lux Collective Celebrates the Launch of LUX* Lake Kivu & SALT of Akagera in Rwanda
Award-winning global luxury hospitality operator The Lux Collective makes its debut in Rwanda with the launch of LUX* Lake Kivu and SALT of Akagera, the first two properties within the Group’s landmark five-resort Rwanda Tourism Circuit. Set across the country’s most iconic destinations, the openings introduce the internationally acclaimed LUX* and SALT brands - ushering in a new era of luxury hospitality shaped by regenerative tourism, immersive nature-led travel and cultural connection.
Rosewood Introduces “The Spirit of Celebration”
This summer, Rosewood introduces The Spirit of Celebration, a global program designed to bring people together through sport, travel and shared experiences. Inspired by the energy and sense of community surrounding football culture, the initiative is anchored by an exclusive limited-edition jersey created in collaboration with British artist and sportswear designer Christian Jeffery, alongside hotel activations and curated regional itineraries.
Minor Hotels Announces Avani Kyoto Marking Brand Debut in Japan
Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group with more than 640 hotels, resorts and branded residences across 66 countries, has announced the development of Avani Kyoto, marking the brand’s entry into Japan. Scheduled to open in 2030, the hotel forms part of a joint development alongside Taisei Corporation and Heiwa Real Estate Co., Ltd., with Minor participating as both investor and operator. Located along Karasuma Street in central Kyoto, the hotel occupies the site of the former Kyoto Shimbun headquarters and benefits from direct connectivity to Marutamachi Station on the Karasuma Subway Line. The property sits within walking distance of key cultural landmarks including the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle, positioning it as a strong base for both domestic and international travellers seeking access to the city’s historic and cultural centre
United Celebrates America with Custom 250th Anniversary Livery
United today unveiled a new specialty "Stars and Stripes" livery that celebrates the nation's 250th anniversary and announced a milestone to the airline's United Military Pilot Program, an initiative that provides currently serving active-duty U.S. military pilots access to a conditional job offer with the airline much earlier than they were previously afforded. United Celebrates America with Custom 250th Anniversary Livery and Military Pilot Hiring Program Milestone Since 2024, nearly 600 military pilots have transitioned to United through the program, with 500 more expected by the end of 202
Europcar responds to reports the Government will revise ZEV mandate targets
Responding to reports that the Government is set to ease the ZEV mandate's 2030 target, Tom Middleditch, Sustainability spokesperson at Europcar Mobility Group UK, said: "Easing the pressure on manufacturers makes sense. OEMs have been telling us for months that the current trajectory was becoming unworkable, and a more realistic supply-side target should help stabilise the market for everyone who buys vehicles at scale.
Bermuda: The Coolcation That Doesn't Require a Coat
As travellers increasingly embrace the "coolcation" trend in search of destinations with more comfortable temperatures, Bermuda is redefining what a climate-conscious getaway can look like. Rather than escaping to destinations that are too hot in summer or too cold in winter, visitors can enjoy Bermuda's sweet spot: a year-round blend of sunshine, sea breezes and outdoor adventure. Just a direct flight from London, Bermuda offers an alternative to traditional seasonal travel. Here, mild temperatures, world-class experiences and breathtaking natural beauty come together in every season, making the island an ideal destination for those seeking balance rather than extremes.
Access Hospitality launches Access Evo, an AI intelligence layer for hotels
Access Hospitality has launched Access Evo, a new AI-powered intelligence layer that connects CRS, CRM, RMS and Booking Engine data into a single operating environment for hotel teams. Launching at HITEC 2026, Evo addresses one of the hospitality industry’s most persistent operational challenges: fragmented technology stacks that slow decision-making, increase manual reporting and make it harder for teams to act quickly on commercial opportunities.
BRAND USA AND U.S. HOST CITIES LEAN INTO INNOVATION AND AI TO ENHANCE WORLD CUP TRIP PLANNING
As the United States welcomes international visitors for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, AI is transforming how fans experience their journey - from planning their trip and navigating language barriers to finding transportation, attractions, and last-minute information once they arrive. With the tournament underway, Brand USA, the official destination marketing organisation for the United States, is spotlighting the AI-powered visitor tools already in place across host cities, and how they’re helping millions of international fans make the most of their time in the United States.
RwandAir wins Best Cabin Service in Africa at the 2026 APEX Awards
RwandAir has been named Best Cabin Service in Africa at the 2026 APEX Awards, marking the first time the airline has received this recognition for its onboard customer experience. The award was presented during the APEX Future Travel Experience (FTE) EMEA event in Dublin and is based exclusively on independently verified passenger feedback from more than one million flights worldwide. The recognition is therefore a direct reflection of the experience delivered to customers onboard RwandAir flights.
Red Sea Global brings second flagship destination to life with the opening of Four Seasons Resort
Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious luxury and regenerative tourism destinations, The Red Sea and AMAALA, has officially brought its second flagship destination to life. In a milestone for the Kingdom’s tourism sector, RSG has welcomed its first guests at AMAALA, an integrated wellness haven, with the opening of Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay. This landmark launch signifies the transition of AMAALA into a live destination. Set along the pristine shoreline of Saudi Arabia’s northwestern coast, the resort serves as the anchor for the destination’s ultra-luxury wellness ecosystem and sets a new global benchmark for regenerative tourism.
Belfast’s Culloden Estate & Spa Unveils Stunning New Upgrades Following £620,000 Investment
Culloden Estate & Spa, Northern Ireland’s most prestigious five-star hotel, is celebrating its 150th anniversary with the completion of a £620,000 upgrade designed to further enhance the luxury guest experience. Refurbishments have been carried out across guestrooms, private dining areas, and The Spa, featuring refreshed décor, stylish soft furnishings, and bespoke furniture. The unveiling of these enhancements marks a significant milestone as the hotel celebrates 150 years since the property was first built as the official palace of the Bishops of Down. Today, the estate spans twelve picturesque acres, overlooking Belfast Lough and the Antrim coastline, complete with luxurious accommodation, an award-winning spa, exceptional dining experiences and elegant event spaces.