Organisations & Operators News Page 186
Best Alpine Wellness Hotels Launches in the UK, Introducing a New Vision of Alpine Luxury
Best Alpine Wellness Hotels, a long-established collection of independent Alpine wellness hotels, is launching in the UK market, bringing a refined, nature-led approach to luxury travel across Austria. Founded in 1985, Best Alpine Wellness Hotels is a carefully curated cooperation of 16 family-run 4 and 5 superior hotels**, united by a shared philosophy of authentic wellness, Alpine nature and thoughtful hospitality. Each hotel is deeply rooted in its surroundings, offering restorative stays shaped by mountain landscapes, spa culture, seasonal cuisine and a slower, more considered pace of life.
OurAfrica.travel Announces New Partnership With Purpose
OurAfrica.Travel is Africa's only digital trade show, and has, since its inception during the 2020 lockdown, been all about collaborations and partnerships in the spirit of Ubuntu – driven by a desire to support the greater good of the whole African tourism community in an affordable, inclusive way.
Capella Debuts in Kyoto, Japan
Capella Kyoto will open on 22 March 2026, just as Kyoto's legendary cherry blossoms reach their fleeting peak. Set in the historic Miyagawa-cho kagai (geisha district), Capella Hotels and Resorts' inaugural property in Japan is located steps from the Kenninji temple and the Kamo river where kabuki was born.
Oceania Cruises® Introduces the Oceania Club Ambassador Program
Oceania Cruises®, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused luxury cruise line, today announced the launch of its Oceania ClubTM Ambassador Program, a new referral initiative designed to reward loyal guests for sharing their passion for travelling well with friends and family. When an Oceania Club member refers a friend or family member who books their first-ever voyage with Oceania Cruises, both the referring member and the new guest will enjoy US$200 savings, a gesture that celebrates shared discovery and connection.
Minor Hotels Brings Luxury Anantara Hotels & Resorts Brand to Australia - Anantara Perth Hotel
Minor Hotels, a leading global hotel owner and operator, is introducing its world-renowned luxury Anantara brand to Australia with the signing of Anantara Perth Hotel. The announcement marks a pivotal expansion for the company, bringing Anantara’s celebrated Thai-inspired hospitality to one of Australia’s fastest‑growing capital cities.
Arival and Phocuswright release landmark global market-sizing report
Arival and Phocuswright today released The Outlook for Travel Experiences 2019–2029, the most comprehensive global market-sizing report for tours, activities and attractions since before the pandemic. The new research shows the experiences sector has not only fully rebounded but its growth rate is now outpacing every other major segment of travel, reaching $271 billion in 2025 and projected to climb to $342 billion by 2029.
ITB Berlin Convention 2026: Charting a course between crises and AI
This year, the ITB Berlin Convention is focusing on political expertise: The age of polycrisis and the impact of global tensions on travel behaviour are the subject of a keynote speech by Joschka Fischer, former German Foreign Minister, who will highlight how the tourism industry can position and assert itself in a world of increasing political uncertainty. The other events at the convention will also offer first-hand international experience and insider knowledge in 17 themed tracks on four stages: Top executives from global companies – including Google, Microsoft, Expedia and this year's official Premium Partner of ITB Berlin and co-host of the ITB Berlin Convention, Airbnb – will provide practical information on current strategies and projects that will shape the world of travel in the long term.
OneReg CEO on North America’s snow‑driven flight disruptions
As heavy snow and high winds swept across North America this week, the aviation system once again hit a breaking point. More than 12,000 flights were cancelled between Sunday and Tuesday across the U.S., with New York’s major airports among the hardest hit. At the peak of the storm, cancellation rates were nearly twenty times higher than a typical winter day – a reminder of how quickly disruption cascades when operators are juggling volatile weather, complex regulations, and disconnected sources of operational information.
Minor Hotels Appoints Milan Jajčanin as Hotel Manager of Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles
Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group with hotels, resorts and branded residences across 59 countries, has appointed has appointed Milan Jajčanin as Hotel Manager of Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles, strengthening the resort’s operational leadership as it continues to build momentum in the Indian Ocean
Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris claims ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Supply Chain Programme’
The landmark Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris has been recognised with the title of ‘World's Leading Sustainable Supply Chain Programme 2025’ by voters at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards. Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris has completely reimagined its supply chain model, integrating responsible sourcing, waste reduction and ethical partnerships into every aspect of its operations. Through this award, the hotel demonstrates that true luxury can go hand in hand with excellence, social responsibility, and a deep commitment to the planet.
Emirates Expands Payment Flexibility in Kenya Through Cellulant's Split-Payment Solution
Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has introduced a first-of-its-kind split-payment solution for travellers in Kenya, through a longstanding strategic partnership with Cellulant, Africa’s leading payments technology company. The split-payment capability, enabled by Tingg, Cellulant’s payment gateway, has debuted in Kenya and is expected to roll out to other African markets in the coming months.
Four Seasons Yachts Unveils 2027 Caribbean Season Featuring 18 New Voyages
Four Seasons Yachts unveils its 2027–2028 Caribbean season, introducing 18 curated voyages and 18 new destinations that will invite guests to explore this part of the world by sea. Designed around intimate marinas and lightly visited ports, each itinerary allows travellers to step directly into the character of the Caribbean. The season will mark Four Seasons Yachts second year sailing in this region, following the brand's Mediterranean debut in March 2026 and its inaugural Caribbean winter season later this year.