Travel Industry News Page 48
Record efficiency in tests converting CO₂ into sustainable aviation fuel components
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), in collaboration with researchers from Aramco, have achieved the highest reported efficiency in converting carbon dioxide into jet fuel-range hydrocarbons, advancing the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Kenya Boosts Africa’s Tourism Growth, Emerging as a Leading Sustainable Tourism Powerhouse
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today reveals that Africa is entering a new era of tourism growth, with Travel & Tourism (T&T) outperforming the wider economy and positioning the continent among one of the world’s fastest-growing regions in 2026.
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VIVA Cruises releases 2027 themed river cruise programme
River cruise operator VIVA Cruises has released its full 2027 themed river cruise programme, featuring 19 departures covering wellness, jazz and crime sailings. The programme, which is on sale now, will run from February to November, with itineraries ranging from four to seven nights onboard VIVA ONE and VIVA RUBY.
Saudi Red Sea Authority Strengthens Sector Regulation and Enhances Readiness
Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA), in its 2025 Annual Report, highlighted a set of key achievements that reflect its continued progress in building a more regulated, efficient, and sustainable coastal tourism sector. These efforts included developing regulatory frameworks, enhancing operational readiness, strengthening compliance, and supporting investors, in in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Formula 1® will continue racing in Las Vegas, the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World
Formula 1® will continue racing in Las Vegas, the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World, through to 2037, following a new 10-year extension. Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc., Clark County officials and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), have all committed to the long-term future of one of the standout events on both the United States and global sporting calendar.
Tempo by Hilton Expands Nashville Presence with New Midtown Opening
Hilton celebrates the opening of Tempo by Hilton Nashville Midtown, marking the brand’s second hotel in Nashville. Developed in partnership with Vision Hospitality Group, the 161-room lifestyle hotel brings Tempo’s signature blend of design, well-being and productivity-focused amenities to the city’s vibrant Midtown district.
Unforgettable Croatia rolls out Starlink WiFi across fleet
Unforgettable Croatia has completed the rollout of SpaceX’s Starlink WiFi across its fleet. The luxury small-ship cruise operator first introduced the technology onboard the 38-guest My Wish last year as part of a trial programme. Following positive guest feedback and improved onboard connectivity, Starlink has now been installed across its six-ship fleet.
Hilton Accelerates Luxury Growth in Japan with Signing of Conrad Kobe
Hilton announced an agreement with ORIX Real Estate Corporation to bring the Conrad Hotels & Resorts brand to Kobe, Hyogo prefecture. The hotel will be jointly developed by a consortium led by ORIX Real Estate Corporation, comprising six other companies as part of the Kobe City Hall Building No. 2 redevelopment project. Scheduled to open in 2030, the hotel will be managed by Hilton and marks the company’s entry into Hyogo prefecture. “Amid growing demand for luxury brands in Japan, Conrad will be introduced to a new destination in partnership with long-standing partner ORIX Real Estate Corporation. This will further strengthen our luxury portfolio in the Kansai region, and we are confident that the opening of the Conrad Kobe will create a new landmark in the city,” said Hirohisa Fujimoto, vice president of development, Japan & Micronesia, Hilton.
TravelAI launches Traveler.md
TravelAI, The Travel Memory Company, today announced the launch of Traveler.md, a portable, user-owned travel memory file designed to help travelers move from repetitive, cold-start interactions to more relevant and more efficient travel experiences. The launch takes place at Phocuswright Europe in Barcelona, where TravelAI’s leadership will introduce the product to the global travel industry, where other tech leaders are discussing moving AI innovations from the lab to live use cases that solve real customer problems.
What Makes a Boutique Hotel Worth the Stay
What sets a boutique hotel apart from a chain, what to look for, why independents are gaining ground, and how to choose a stay worth the trip.
MANDARIN ORIENTAL DOWNTOWN, DUBAI INVITES GUESTS TO SLOW DOWN THIS SUMMER WITH THE DOWNSHIFT RETREAT
Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai invites GCC residents to embrace a slower, more mindful rhythm this summer season. Guests are invited to unwind with The Downshift Retreat, a restorative wellbeing package designed to gently move guests from mental intensity to grounded calm through immersive spa experiences, nourishing dining and considered in-room rituals.
IHG Hotels & Resorts Greater China Launches the 2026 IHG Star Chef Gourmet Tour
As diners increasingly seek experiences that go beyond great food, hotel dining is evolving into a key gateway for discovering local culture and destinations. Responding to this shift, IHG Hotels & Resorts has continued to develop its annual Star Chef Gourmet Tour for a fourth consecutive year, bringing together hotels across Greater China to celebrate regional culinary traditions and foster deeper cultural expression and emotional connection. This year, the programme returns with a refreshed three-part journey — Origin, Authenticity and Craft — bringing together culinary teams from nearly 50 hotels across the IHG portfolio.