Travel Industry News Page 481
Hilton Named Best Workplace in Sri Lanka
Hilton has been named the Best Workplace in Sri Lanka™ 2025 by Great Place to Work®, earning the top position in the large-sized business category for the first time. This achievement follows four consecutive years as Sri Lanka’s top hospitality employer and reflects Hilton’s enduring commitment to fostering a purpose-driven, people-first workplace.
Avios Subscription Service Powered by Plusgrade Unlocks Predictable Rewards for Finnair Plus Members
Plusgrade, a global leader in ancillary revenue solutions, and Finnair, the flag carrier of Finland, are proud to announce the launch of a new Avios subscription service, a new way for Finnair Plus members to collect Avios. With flexible plans, a seamless checkout, and a set-and-forget experience, Finnair Plus members can now automatically grow their Avios balance every month—no extra steps required.
FITUR 2026 expands its technological dimension with the introduction of the Knowledge Hub
FITUR, the International Tourism Trade Fair, which is taking place from 21 to 25 January 2026 at IFEMA MADRID, reinforces its technological dimension as a key backbone for the development of tourism with the introduction of the Knowledge Hub. Located in Hall 12, it will be occupied by forward-thinking companies from around the world that are benchmarks in the digital ecosystem, and will bring together high-impact, topical content that is defining the future of the industry.
RYANAIR CALLS ON URSULA VON DER LEYEN TO QUIT
Ryanair, Europe’s No.1 airline, has called on EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to quit, if she is unwilling to reform Europe’s failed ATC Service, as French Air Traffic Controllers engage in a second day of recreational strikes on Thurs 3 / Fri 4 July. Ursula von der Leyen has failed to take any action over 6 years, to reform Europe’s ATC Service, which continues to disrupt the single market for air travel, and ruin the travel plans of thousands of EU passengers and their families every summer.
The Emirates Group showcases collaborative sustainability initiatives in aviation
The Emirates Group’s efforts to align with this year’s UN call to end plastic pollution were on display at its ‘Tomorrow Takes Flight’ event, its annual sustainability showcase. The exhibition echoed the international organisation’s mission to reduce single-use plastic products, spotlighting Emirates’ and dnata’s efforts and approach to ‘Consuming Responsibly’ through sourcing, reusing, repurposing, and reducing plastic and other materials.
Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways Ink Strategic Partnership
Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), confirming the intention to enter a strategic partnership which will include a comprehensive codeshare agreement and increased flights between the East African state and Qatar Airways’ award-winning Doha hub, Hamad International Airport.
FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS DEBUTS IN JAPAN
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of the world-leading hospitality group Accor, is delighted to announce its debut in Japan with the opening of Fairmont Tokyo. The milestone was marked by a ribbon-tying ceremony held on July 1, 2025, celebrating a history-making moment as the brand enters the Japanese market for the very first time.
Hyatt Continues Expansion
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans to expand Hyatt’s luxury and lifestyle brand portfolios across Asia Pacific, with a robust pipeline of close to 90 properties expected to open over the next five years. This strategic growth includes the debut of the Thompson Hotels brand in the region alongside significant new entries and expansion for Andaz, The Standard and Park Hyatt brands in sought-after destinations including Thailand, Malaysia and Australia in 2025 and 2026.
Baja California Sur launches EMBRACE IT: an initiative to support sustainable tourism
The Government of the State of Baja California Sur will officially implement the EMBRACE IT tax on foreign visitors who stay in the state for more than 24 hours. This measure aims to generate funds to strengthen natural environmental conservation, community development, and local tourism infrastructure.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa Opens with Legendary Guitar Smash and Star-Studded Celebration
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa officially opened its doors today with a signature guitar smash, marking the arrival of Canada's first fully integrated Hard Rock resort, a bold new destination where entertainment, hospitality, and music take center stage. The $350 million resort brings the brand's unmistakable energy to Canada's capital, offering locals and visitors an immersive Hard Rock experience blending iconic music history with world-class entertainment, hospitality, dining, and gaming.
Holland America Line Marks America's 250th Anniversary in 2026 with Cruise to Historical U.S. Ports
In honor of America's 250th birthday in 2026, Holland America Line is sailing a landmark cruise roundtrip from Boston — the epicenter of the American Revolution. The seven-day "America's 250th Celebration: Stars & Stripes Voyage" aboard Zuiderdam departs July 4, 2026, and includes a visit to Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, an overnight visit to New York City, as well as a special call at Norfolk, Virginia, with access to Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown.
ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES ANNOUNCES NEW CANADIAN ARCTIC EXPEDITION ABOARD WORLD VOYAGER
Atlas Ocean Voyages launches a brand-new polar expedition for 2026: the Canadian Arctic Discovery 17-night expedition aboard World Voyager, sailing September 21 from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland to St. John's, Newfoundland. This once-in-a-lifetime journey offers explorers a rare opportunity to traverse the remote regions of the Canadian Arctic and Labrador, highlighting the untamed wilderness, rich cultural diversity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.