Organisations & Operators News Page 428
Helsinki clears up the biggest sauna misconception just in time for Eurovision
Eurovision has sparked global curiosity about one of Finland's most iconic traditions: the sauna. But for many, the idea of stepping into one comes with uncertainty — do you have to be naked, is talking allowed, and what's with the felt hat? Now Helsinki is inviting everyone to experience a sauna culture that's less about rules and more about what feels right. As Eurovision fans set their sights on Basel, another cultural star is quietly gaining global attention: the Finnish sauna. While many may recognise the image of a steamy wooden room and a plunge into icy water, the act of stepping into a sauna can feel surprisingly intimidating.
Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration Begins at The Happiest Place on Earth
The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration kicked off May 16, 2025, honoring seven decades and counting of The Happiest Place on Earth with must-visit festivities across the resort through summer 2026. In 1955, Walt Disney opened Disneyland Park with a hope that it would be "a source of joy and inspiration to all the world." This limited-time celebration highlights that feeling of absolute happiness through jubilant entertainment, décor, food and beverages, merchandise and more.
Colombia Breaks Tourism Records and Tops Global Bird Count, again!
Colombia has once again soared to the top of the world's largest bird count. Recording an astonishing 1,563 bird species during the recent edition of Global Big Day 2025, the country reaffirms its title as the most biodiverse nation on Earth for birds and a rising global leader in nature tourism.
Travel Industry Sounds Alarm: Expedia and Leaders Confront U.S. Tourism Concerns
Top travel leaders, including Expedia Group CEO Ariane Gorin and President & CEO of U.S. Travel Association Geoff Freeman, gathered in Seattle at the annual EXPLORE conference to discuss turbulence in the global travel market. As economic pressures grow and international demand softens, industry insiders are calling for urgent action to encourage travel to and within the U.S.
TÜRSAB Joins the World Travel & Tourism Council
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is pleased to welcome the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TÜRSAB) as its newest Association Partner, marking a significant step in strengthening international collaboration across Travel & Tourism.
Etihad Airways Continues Fleet Expansion with Boeing Agreement
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, is further expanding its fleet, confirming an order for 28 wide-body Boeing aircraft. Since 2023, the airline has steadily grown its fleet as part of a long-term strategy to double in size by 2030. This reflects Etihad’s ongoing approach to aligning its fleet with evolving network and operational needs.
WTTC Urges Travel & Tourism to Join Forces to Scale Up Sustainable Fuel
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in collaboration with global consultancy ICF, has today launched a bold new framework urging the entire Travel & Tourism sector to unite in tackling one of its toughest challenges: scaling up the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and other renewable fuels. The report, Scaling Up Sustainable Fuel, sets out a practical roadmap for how every business in the sector, no matter its size or role, can help address transport-related emissions and accelerate the shift to cleaner fuels.
Canvas Couture - Twinpalms Tented Camp Phuket Enhances Wellness Offerings Amidst Natural Luxury
Following its highly successful launch just 5 months ago, Twinpalms Tented Camp Phuket, a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is delighted to unveil new wellness experiences designed to deepen the connection between guests and the stunning surroundings.
Igniting Transformative Tourism: REMOTE Immersion Lands in Antigua, May 19–22
The wait is over: REMOTE Immersion Antigua is ready to welcome its vibrant community of travel professionals, entrepreneurs, and visionaries to the heart of Guatemala. From May 19 to 22, the UNESCO-listed city of Antigua will host the 8th edition of REMOTE's signature gathering, bringing together 215 carefully selected participants who share a common mission—to help shape the future of responsible tourism in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Malaysia Airlines Launches 'Memorable Journeys'
National flag carrier, Malaysia Airlines, has announced its Memorable Journeys savings, providing significant discounts on its flagship double-daily direct flights to Kuala Lumpur and onward to some of the most desirable destinations in Asia and Australasia – including its upcoming reinstated services to Brisbane. In addition to Malaysia Airlines' customary free wifi and generous baggage allowance, travellers booking between now and 20 May 2025 can enjoy special return fares including Kuala Lumpur from £619; Bangkok or Singapore from £589; and Melbourne or Sydney from £829, inclusive of 20kg baggage allowance. Return Business Class fares start from £3009 (Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok)*.
Introducing Hadiprana Hospitality: A Visionary Brand Celebrating Indonesia's Culture
Continuing the legacy of the late Mr. Hendra Hadiprana, one of Indonesia's most esteemed visionary architects and designers, the Hadiprana family has marked the official launch of Hadiprana Hospitality with the unveiling of a brand new website and Instagram account. Committed to sustainability, artistic expression and exceptional service, this emerging brand is a reflection of Mr. Hadiprana's lifelong dedication to preserving and celebrating the diverse cultural heritage of Indonesia.
Gaylord Hotels Expands to the West Coast
Gaylord Hotels and Marriott International announce today’s opening of Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, the first-ever Gaylord Hotels property in California and the sixth in the brand’s portfolio. This significant addition to the West Coast expands and enhances the premium meetings and experiences brand’s footprint. Developed in partnership with RIDA Development Corporation, this $1.3B project features 1,600 guest rooms including 89 suites, a vibrant array of 12 food and beverage concepts, a 4.25-acre waterpark with multiple pools, and more than 477,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space.