Momentum is building for what promises to be an epic summer in the nation’s capital. Over the coming months, Washington, DC will debut major new attractions, including the National Geographic Museum of Exploration, an innovative museum beneath the Lincoln Memorial and an expansion of the National Air and Space Museum. Plus, DC is ready for its center stage role for America’s 250th anniversary with a jampacked lineup of free cultural festivals, historic exhibits and modern experiences across the city.

Arival has released the second edition of its State of Experiences in Australia and New Zealand report, revealing a major shift in how travelers book tours, activities and attractions. Online travel agencies have become the single largest distribution channel across the region, overtaking operator websites and offline direct bookings. This marks a significant turning point for the sector as digital distribution continues to reshape how operators reach travelers. The findings reflect the importance of experiences to Australia's tourism, as the Australian Tourism Exchange 2026 wraps up this week. The digitization of experiences will also be a central topic at Arival 360 | Brisbane from 22 to 24 June

As travellers increasingly prioritise authentic and unique escapes, O&L Leisure is spotlighting its six distinctive properties across Namibia - Strand Hotel Swakopmund, Mokuti Etosha, Le Mirage Sossusvlei, Chobe Water Villas Zambezi, Divava Okavango and Midgard Otjihavera Windhoek - all offering curated journeys through some of southern Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes.

Dubai has launched the world’s first AI smart bus station. This marks another significant step toward becoming a global leader in the sphere of smart mobility and AI-based urban transportation. Developed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai, this groundbreaking project is located at the Mall of the Emirates. It features innovative AI technology and environmentally friendly design.

Global Travel & Tourism is forecast to continue outpacing wider economic growth in 2026, with the sector expected to contribute $12TN to the world economy, accounting for 9.9% of global GDP, according to new data from the World Travel & Tourism Council, sponsored by Chase Travel, Lead Research Partner.

Travel Compositor, a leading provider of booking engine solutions for online leisure travel sellers and part of Travelsoft, the global Travel SaaS group powering travel distribution and packaging technologies worldwide, today announced a strategic evolution of its leadership structure. This step marks a new phase of growth, international consolidation, and long-term business continuity within the broader group strategy. As part of this transition process, the company has communicated that its founder and current CEO, Manuel Aragonés, will conclude a journey of more than 12 years leading the company in October 2026, when he will step down from his executive duties in line with his planned retirement.