Organisations & Operators News Page 357
Solar Powered Houseboat launches on The Chobe River
Sustainable Design Meets Photo Safari Excellence The Pangolin Voyager features five spacious cabins accommodating up to eight guests, offering an intimate and exclusive experience on one of Africa's most wildlife-rich waterways. What sets this vessel apart is its pioneering commitment to environmental sustainability – the entire houseboat runs on clean energy captured by high-efficiency solar panels integrated into the roof design. This innovative power system eliminates the need for conventional generators, providing a silent, emission-free experience that enhances wildlife viewing opportunities while minimising environmental impact.
Moon Palace The Grand Is “A Partnership Made In Heaven” – Bartlett
With construction of Jamaica’s most elaborate resort development about to take off, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett has hailed plans for the US$700 million, 1,200-room Moon Palace The Grand as “a partnership made in heaven.” Features of the development were given at yesterday’s groundbreaking ceremony for the 33-storey ultra-modern hotel by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Palace Resorts, Gibran Chapur.
In Harmony & Professor Andrew Smith Launch World-First Corporate Wellness Verification
In a global first for luxury hospitality and destination brands, In Harmony — founded by hospitality strategist Nicki Page — has partnered with Professor Andrew Smith to launch the world’s only academically verified, data-driven measurement of corporate wellness. This groundbreaking service answers a question now echoing around boardrooms worldwide: “How well is my company? My staff? My guests?”
Holland America Line Enriches 2026 Solar Eclipse Cruises with the Addition of Astronomy Experts
As astronomical wonders continue to capture global attention, Holland America Line announces the addition of astronomy experts to its three 2026 solar eclipse cruises. A total solar eclipse will be visible on Aug. 12, 2026, and guests aboard Nieuw Statendam, Oosterdam and Zuiderdam will have exclusive access to lectures, presentations and tips on how to make the most of their eclipse viewing.
Ocean Spa Hotel, part of the Sunset World Group, Celebrates 18 Years of Offering the Perfect Setting
This August, Sunset World Group proudly celebrates the 18th anniversary of Ocean Spa Hotel, one of its most iconic hotels. Since its opening in 2007, this hotel has established itself as a favorite choice for families and couples, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and facilities designed for all ages.
In Celebration of World Elephant Day, San Diego Zoo Safari Park Announces Elephant Valley to Open
Today, in celebration of World Elephant Day, San Diego Zoo Safari Park announces Denny Sanford Elephant Valley will open in early 2026. The largest and most transformative project in San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's 109-year history is 80% complete. This first-of-its-kind experience will offer new insight into the role San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance pursues as a leader in wildlife conservation, highlighting its global partners and celebrating the vibrant cultures and local communities in Kenya where people and elephants coexist. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is grateful for the more than 4,100 donors who made Elephant Valley possible, including a lead gift from Denny Sanford.
Severance at 30,000 Feet: Award-Winning Apple Originals Now Playing on United
United today announced that full seasons of select Apple TV+ global hits will now be available for free on the airline's 130,000+ seatback screens and in the United app, including award-winning shows such as Severance, Shrinking, Ted Lasso, Slow Horses and Silo and more.
Lisbon's Beaches Awarded for Accessibility
Lisbon is proud to announce that 19 of its beaches have been awarded accessible status under the Praia para Todos (Beach for All) programme. This recognition, granted by the National Institute for Rehabilitation, celebrates their excellence in providing safe, inclusive and barrier-free experiences for visitors of all abilities. This achievement highlights Lisbon's commitment to making its stunning coastline welcoming to everyone. With features such as ramps, walkways, amphibious chairs, adapted toilets and dedicated assistance programmes, these beaches offer comfort, independence and enjoyment to all visitors. An expanding accessible public transport network also makes reaching these destinations easy and convenient.
Minor Hotels Opens Its First Property in Peru: Nhow Lima
Minor Hotels Europe & Americas, a global hotel owner and operator with over 560 properties across 57 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Indian Ocean, has officially opened its first hotel in Peru as part of its regional expansion plans. nhow Lima opened on 1 August and is set to transform the city's accommodation, gastronomy and entertainment scene with its disruptive and innovative approach.
Chooose Integrates IATA CO2 Connect Data into its Platform
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has signed an agreement with software company Chooose to expand market access to IATA CO2 Connect emissions data. Airlines managing their SAF programs via the Chooose platform will now be able to deliver IATA CO2 Connect’s trusted data—based on real operational inputs from over 70 airlines and aligned with IATA RP 1726 and ISO 14083—directly to their corporate and consumer traveler customers. IATA research conducted in April 2025 revealed that 40% of travelers—particularly business travelers—regularly check their flight-related carbon emissions. By delivering CO2 Connect data through its platform, Chooose helps airlines and corporate partners meet that demand for transparency, while enabling more informed decision-making.
ROCCO FORTE HOTELS AND EMERALD PINE CAPITAL ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Rocco Forte Hotels and Emerald Pine Capital are pleased to announce a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the expansion of the Rocco Forte brand across Europe and the Middle East. By combining Rocco Forte's renowned operational excellence with Emerald Pine Capital's investment and asset management expertise, the collaboration creates a highly aligned team with deep capabilities across sourcing, underwriting, structuring and execution.
Minor Hotels Delivers Resilient Earnings Growth in 1H25 Amid Macro Pressures
Minor Hotels, a leading global hotel owner, operator and investor, has reported a positive first-half financial performance in 2025, with core profit rising 34% on last year despite geopolitical disruptions and macroeconomic uncertainty. The results reflect the Bangkok-based group’s strategic agility and increasingly diversified global footprint, which helped offset softness in some markets.