Cannubi by Umberto Bombana at Dusit International's reimagined flagship hotel, Dusit Thani Bangkok, has been awarded One Michelin Star in The Michelin Guide Thailand 2026 – the first time an Italian restaurant in Thailand has received the distinction.

As we near the end of this year, 2025, we look back at what was a defining moment for the global travel industry. After years of upheaval and transformation, travel returned with renewed energy, driven by shifting consumer expectations, technological innovation, and a deeper focus on sustainability. Across continents and sectors—from aviation to hospitality, and from digital platforms to local communities—the industry underwent meaningful change.

Hilton has announced the Africa expansion of DoubleTree by Hilton, its upscale brand known for its warm hospitality, with the signing of three new properties in key destinations across North, West and Central Africa: Morocco, Togo and the Republic of Congo. These latest signings include Hilton’s debut in Togo and underscore Hilton’s commitment to growing its footprint on the continent, where the global hospitality company now has more than 100 hotels in its pipeline.

An official attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the largest showcase of cheese varieties in one place will be held in Dubai at the Radisson Blu Hotel Deira Creek on January 28, 2026, in conjunction with Gulfood, the world’s biggest food show. The record to beat is 1,001 varieties of cheese, which was achieved in Lyon, France in October 2023, and currently holds the world record.

Hilton and Higuerón Developments today announced the signing of Waldorf Astoria Marbella, bringing the iconic Waldorf Astoria brand to Spain’s Malaga Province. Opening in 2029, the new resort will offer a contemporary expression of Marbella’s Andalusian setting, reflecting Waldorf Astoria’s signature design ethos and service throughout. Guests will also experience the brand’s Personal Concierge. Waldorf Astoria Marbella will offer 120 guest rooms and suites, as well as 120 branded residences, designed to balance residential comfort with the brand’s signature service, set against Marbella’s Mediterranean coastline. The hotel will feature a unique design created by three Pritzker Prize-winning architects, who are currently working on its conceptual design competition.

Omni Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with Broward County, Visit Lauderdale, and developer Matthews Southwest, have officially opened the doors of Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel with a ceremonial ribbon cutting, welcoming its first guests. This debut signals the brand's flagship arrival to Greater Fort Lauderdale, introducing a new benchmark for sophisticated coastal luxury and elevated hospitality in South Florida. Marking a key achievement in the Broward County Convention Center District expansion, the hotel now serves as its definitive anchor, setting a new regional standard as a world-class destination for meetings, events, and leisure.