Travel Industry News Page 558
Anantara Veli Maldives Resort Launches Artist in Residence Programme with Cambodian-Based Artist, FO
The endless blue horizon, sun-kissed shores and kaleidoscopic underwater world at Anantara Veli Maldives Resort sparked a creative awakening for Cambodian-based artist, FONKi as the adult-only resort hosts its first Artist in Residence. Born in Paris to Khmer refugee parents and raised in Montreal, FONKi is a dynamic artist renowned for blending contemporary street art with traditional Cambodian influences. He is also the curator and owner of FT Gallery in Phnom Penh and the founder of Murals for Cambodia Festival, fostering local talents and elevating Phnom Penh as a thriving art hub in Southeast Asia.
Hilton Announces Plans for First Tempo by Hilton Hotel in Canada
Global hospitality company Hilton announces the signing of a franchise agreement for the new-build Tempo by Hilton Toronto Airport, marking the contemporary lifestyle hotel brand’s debut in Canada. Expected to open in 2028, the 193-room property, locally owned and developed by Toronto-based Inspiration Group, forms part of a multi-use complex with convenient access to Toronto Pearson International Airport. As one of Hilton’s newest lifestyle brands, Tempo by Hilton is redefining the hotel experience with purposefully-designed guest rooms and amenities designed to meet the expectations of today’s business and leisure travelers looking to maintain a sense of balance.
Radisson Hotel Group accelerates growth in Australasia
Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce a series of major developments across its Australasia portfolio, underscoring its commitment to market expansion, enhanced guest experiences, and increased owner profitability through innovative technology and comprehensive operational services.
Minor Hotels Strengthens China Portfolio with Anantara Clear Water Bay Sanya Resort
Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group that owns and operates over 560 hotels, resorts and residences in 58 countries, announces the signing of an agreement between its Chinese joint venture, Funyard Minor, and Chongqing Yuanchu Luquan Cultural Tourism Group to develop Anantara Clear Water Bay Sanya Resort. Slated to debut in October 2027, the 90-key Anantara Hotels & Resorts property will be situated along Clear Water Bay’s 12-kilometre stretch of fine, white sandy beach, known as one of the world’s three 'Singing Beaches.'
Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort Welcomes Guests
Hilton announces the unveiling of Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort, marking the transformation of the former Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. Following extensive renovations, the reimagined resort introduces a refreshed and elevated guest experience in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. Nestled along the scenic coastline, Beach House Fort Lauderdale captures the spirit of coastal living with a focus on easy elegance, inspired amenities and locally sourced cuisine and warm, heartfelt hospitality.
Hilton Announces Annual Sweepstakes to Celebrate Travel Advisor Appreciation Month
Hilton, a leading global hospitality company, announced today the launch of its fifth-annual Travel Advisor Appreciation Sweepstakes in celebration of National Travel Advisor Appreciation Month, which takes place each May to spotlight the contributions of advisors to the overall travel industry. To participate, beginning today through May 31, travel advisors are invited to complete a short feedback survey for the chance to be among 10 winners selected to receive 100,000 Hilton Honors Points, which can be redeemed at any of Hilton’s 8,600+ properties around the world.
Virgin Atlantic touches down in Riyadh and expands network
Virgin Atlantic is delighted to continue its expansion East as it announces new daily flying to Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea, with the first flight taking to the skies on 29th March 2026.
Qatar and DCT Abu Dhabi Launch Joint Initiative to Promote Twin-Centre Holiday Packages
Qatar Tourism and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) have unveiled a strategic partnership designed to strengthen regional tourism ties through a new twin-centre holiday offering. This initiative enables travellers to seamlessly combine Doha and Abu Dhabi into a single, multi-city itinerary, making it easier than ever to explore both destinations in one trip. At the heart of this collaboration are Qatar Airways Holidays and Etihad Holidays operated by Capital Holidays, part of ADNEC group, who will jointly curate customised travel packages. Each will draw from a selection of hotels and experiences to design integrated itineraries that capture the essence of both destinations. These packages will be promoted to tour operators across key markets in Europe and North America.
Etihad Airways unveils its Business deals with luxury travel at exceptional prices
Etihad Airways has launched an exclusive Business Sale, with up to 30% on business class fares, offering travellers the chance to experience luxury travel at exceptional prices across its expanding global network. Available until 8 May, the offer features Business fares to sought-after summer destinations including our new destinations launching later this year with Al Alamein at AED 3,595, Sochi at AED 5,995, Warsaw at AED 6,995, Prague at AED 9,995, and Taipei at AED 11,995 as well as our seasonal routes to Mykonos and Santorini at AED 6,995, Antalya at AED 8,595 and Nice at AED 11,795. These special fares are valid for travel between 1 June and 30 September 2025.
Emirates Chairman receives PayPal leadership team
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, recently received Suzan Kereere, President of Global Markets at PayPal, a global digital commerce platform, at Emirates Group Headquarters. During the meeting, Emirates and PayPal discussed opportunities to build on their 15-year relationship and deepen collaboration within the dynamic digital payments landscape.
MSC CRUISES UNVEILS EXCITING NEW FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FOR SUMMER 2025
This summer, MSC Cruises is redefining family fun at sea with an enhanced entertainment lineup designed to create unforgettable memories for guests of all ages. From high-energy game shows and interactive experiences to dazzling parades and dynamic parties, the updated programme offers something for everyone, from the youngest cruisers to teens and their parents. Beginning June 2025, families on board MSC Cruises can enjoy brand-new, immersive activities tailored to spark excitement and engagement.
PREFERRED HOTELS & RESORTS WELCOMES 19 NEW MEMBER PROPERTIES
Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand, is pleased to announce the addition of 19 new member properties to its global portfolio between January 1 and March 31, 2025. To celebrate, I Prefer Hotel Rewards members can earn 2,500 bonus points on eligible stays at any of these participating locations for a limited time. Ranging from a family-oriented coastal retreat on the shores of Taiwan to a Blueridge mountainside adventurer’s escape, each of these distinct properties will greet travelers with thoughtful personalized service and unique unforgettable experiences that define independent luxury hospitality. Highlights include: