Travel Industry News Page 454
Türkiye Sees Continued Rise in Irish Visitors in First Half of 2025
Türkiye, the world's 4th biggest incoming tourism market according to UN Tourism's 2024 data, announced its tourism performance results for the first six months of 2025 at a press conference in İstanbul. The data shows sustainable growth across key metrics, with notable resilience and spending power among visitors.
MANDARIN ORIENTAL TO DEBUT IN XI’AN WITH AN IMMERSIVE URBAN RESORT
Mandarin Oriental is delighted to announce the opening of Mandarin Oriental, Xi’an in 2029, marking the Group’s first urban resort in Northwestern China. Developed under a management agreement, the property promises to deliver an experience of elevated tranquility, wellness and cultural immersion in one of China’s most historic destinations.
Etihad Airways Defines Luxury Again With First A321LR Flight To Phuket
Etihad Airways has launched the first commercial flight of its all-new A321LR, defining luxury travel on a narrowbody aircraft. Flight EY414 departed Zayed International Airport for Phuket today, marking the introduction of an aircraft designed to deliver Etihad’s premium cabin standards on short and medium-haul sectors.
Switchfly Travel Loyalty Tech Set to Exceed $2 Billion in 2025 Transactions
Switchfly, the travel loyalty technology that drives revenue, has today revealed it has facilitated more than $1.2 billion in travel bookings across one million transactions in the first half of 2025. By year-end, the company expects to reach 2.4 million bookings at a total transaction value of $2.25 billion.
Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht, unveils its 2026 Caribbean season
In October 2026, Orient Express Corinthian embarks on its Caribbean Season. Reservations are now open. Orient Express Corinthian fuses absolute comfort, legendary service, one-of-a-kind itineraries, unforgettable experiences and cutting-edge technology for responsible navigation, redefining the art of cruising.
Tourism New Zealand Leverages GuideGeek Travel AI Technology to Drive Engagement
Travelers planning a trip to New Zealand can now get inspiration and tips from an AI trip planner powered by Matador Network's industry-leading GuideGeek chat platform. The AI trip planner was also configured to assist with the launch activity of Tourism New Zealand's fully playable destination in Minecraft.
Wyndham and Ovolo Group Partner to Expand Upscale Offerings Across Asia Pacific
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Ovolo Group have announced a strategic partnership that, in the coming months, will see five Ovolo hotels across Australia and Hong Kong join the Wyndham hotel brand. Under the deal—which marries Ovolo's boutique appeal with Wyndham's global reach and best in class infrastructure—Ovolo Group will continue to own and manage the Ovolo brand while exclusively working with Wyndham to unlock additional development opportunities throughout Asia Pacific.
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE ANNOUNCES NEW GREAT TIDES WATERPARK AND OTHER INDUSTRY-FIRST EXPERIENCES
Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today announced additional details for its private island transformation on Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas headlined by a nearly six-acre Great Tides Waterpark opening in summer 2026, and more incredible experiences to bring unforgettable adventures and endless relaxation for its guests.
MGM RESORTS UNVEILS STAR-STUDDED CHEF LINEUP AT BELLAGIO FOUNTAIN CLUB
The starting grid for the epicenter of F1®'s most luxurious dining destination is set as Bellagio Fountain Club unveils its first round of culinary headliners for the 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix. New for this year's race, TV superstars and award-winning chefs Tom Colicchio, Antonia Lofaso and Brooke Williamson will join returning favorites José Andres, David Chang, Mario Carbone, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Masaharu Morimoto, Wolfgang Puck, Olivia Tiedemann, Michael Mina and Bryan and Michael Voltaggio at the helm of the exclusive culinary program during the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2025, November 20-22.
New Standalone Beachfront Private Residences in Abu Dhabi
Four Seasons, the world's leading luxury hospitality and branded residential company, and ALAIN, a leading Abu Dhabi-based asset management company, announce a new standalone beachfront residential offering in the UAE, Four Seasons Private Residences Abu Dhabi at Saadiyat Beach, set to welcome homeowners in 2029.
Northern Jet Celebrates 30th Anniversary
In celebration of its 30th anniversary, Northern Jet is proud to announce new, simplified fractional ownership pricing for its most in-demand aircraft: the Challenger 300 & CJ3+. This anniversary offering makes it easier than ever to access the efficiency, flexibility, and performance of private aviation—just in time for the return of 100% Bonus Depreciation in 2025.
Marriott International Elevates Caribbean Escapes Through Celestial Connections
Marriott International invites discerning travelers to align with the cosmos and indulge in retreats inspired by upcoming lunar phenomena at its Caribbean resorts. Each celestial phase offers unique symbolism—from clarity to renewal to romantic celebration—that guests can pair with bespoke property offerings for an unforgettable experience.