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South African Tourism and GuideGeek launch new AI travel genius, 'Siyanda'

South African Tourism and GuideGeek launch new AI travel genius, 'Siyanda'

North American travelers considering a trip to South Africa can now get expert advice from "Siyanda," a cutting-edge AI travel assistant that provides instant answers to any travel or tourism-related questions about the country. Siyanda is built on Matador Network's industry-leading GuideGeek chat platform and is tailored to support travelers seeking authentic, vibrant, and joy-filled journeys across South Africa.

The Future of Adventure Travel: Backroads Announces 2026 Trend Outlook

The Future of Adventure Travel: Backroads Announces 2026 Trend Outlook

Backroads, the global leader in active travel since 1979, today announced its Top Adventure Travel Trends for 2026, based on early guest bookings and insights from its worldwide team of Trip Leaders and Travel Experts representing more than 60 countries across 550 itineraries worldwide. Decades of proprietary guest data and on-the-ground research reveal that travelers, now more than ever, are prioritizing meaningful, wellness-focused adventures and authentic connections with off-the-beaten-path destinations and communities.

Top Destinations to Visit in 2026

Top Destinations to Visit in 2026

The year 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting one for travelers, with destinations that stand out for their culture, breathtaking landscapes, and innovative offerings. From cities revamping their culinary and hospitality scenes to beaches committed to sustainable tourism and emerging hotspots gaining well-deserved attention, next year's top destinations bring fresh inspiring options for your next getaway—whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, luxury, or cultural immersion.

Stars, Stripes and Seaside Spirit: Celebrate America 250 in Myrtle Beach

Stars, Stripes and Seaside Spirit: Celebrate America 250 in Myrtle Beach

Visit Myrtle Beach is gearing up to celebrate a major national milestone as America celebrates 250 years, offering a moment to recognize the journey that brought the country to where it is today and the possibilities ahead. Along South Carolina's Grand Strand, events, attractions and festivities spotlight the region's enduring spirit, creativity and resilience that have helped shape the nation since 1776.

Journeyscape Reveals Canada's Top National Parks to Visit in 2026

Journeyscape Reveals Canada's Top National Parks to Visit in 2026

Specialist tour operator Journeyscape, in partnership with Destination Canada, has unveiled its definitive ranking of the most inspiring Canadian national parks to explore in 2026. The list compares parks using data on wildlife diversity, Instagram popularity, visitor reviews, accessibility, and park size - helping visitors to plan for unforgettable adventures.

Lisbon Named Europe's Best MICE Destination

Lisbon Named Europe's Best MICE Destination

Lisbon has been named as Europe's Best MICE Destination in 2025 at the 6th edition of the World MICE Awards, announced in Sakhir, Bahrain. The city once again stands out among the leading international destinations for congresses, meetings, and corporate events. This distinction, awarded for the third time, highlights Lisbon's performance in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segment, which has gained increasing economic relevance and international visibility. The combination of efficient accessibility, hotel capacity, modern facilities, and a diverse cultural offer has contributed to consolidating Lisbon's appeal.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Celebrates 15 Years with Star-Studded Anniversary

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Celebrates 15 Years with Star-Studded Anniversary

Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi celebrated its 15th anniversary on December 3, 2025, in the presence of Charles Leclerc, Scuderia Ferrari HP Formula 1 Driver, Ferrari executives including Maria Carla Liuni, Ferrari’s Chief Brand Officer, Julien Kauffmann, CEO of Miral Experiences, tier 1 media outlets, and the park’s dedicated annual pass holders and VIP guests. The milestone event brought together partners, fans and long-time supporters to honor 15 years of record-breaking rides, innovation and unforgettable family experiences under the park’s iconic red roof.

Coral spawning on the Great Barrier Reef

Coral spawning on the Great Barrier Reef

It may not snow in Queensland in December, but underwater, the Great Barrier Reef is putting on its own kind of snowfall in a dazzling underwater exhibition of new life. Giant clams, molluscs and gastropods joined the Great Barrier Reef's headline event, the annual synchronised coral spawning, across much of the 2600km/1615 miles length of the Reef last night (10 December 2025), putting on a jaw-dropping show after some corals performed a curtain raiser in November. This underwater snowstorm of coral sperm and eggs showcases one of the world's most visually incredible natural phenomena.

Relaxation and Connection Define Wellness Travel in 2026

Relaxation and Connection Define Wellness Travel in 2026

As we enter into the new year, many will be looking to beat the January blues with a wellness escape, prioritising relaxation and rejuvenation to begin 2026. Expedia's Unpack 2026 highlights that 91% of travellers are seeking trips centred on relaxation, reading and quality time with loved ones. This evolution reflects a broader shift in which travellers are choosing to step away from a hyperconnected world and reconnect with the people they care about, seeking shared experiences over constant digital engagement. This is evident in the way travellers are actively pursuing mindful breaks from daily demands, whether through the therapeutic sound of the sea, the grounding presence of nature or the restorative atmosphere of a spa.

CHTA HIGHLIGHTS THE BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS FROM CHIEF 2025

CHTA HIGHLIGHTS THE BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS FROM CHIEF 2025

The Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) today shared the leading insights emerging from the 2025 Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF), which recently took place in Barbados. CHTA also announced that CHIEF 2026 will be held November 16–18, 2026, running concurrently with Taste of the Caribbean. The annual event brought together hotel executives, policy makers and tourism partners from across the region to examine the strategies reshaping Caribbean hospitality and the operational shifts required for long-term resilience and competitiveness.

WorldTicket by GO7 expands IATA BSP network to Armenia, completing its Caucasus coverage

WorldTicket by GO7 expands IATA BSP network to Armenia, completing its Caucasus coverage

WorldTicket by GO7, which gives travel agents access to 150+ airline partners through its W2 ticket stock, has today gone live in IATA’s Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) in Armenia. This enables IATA-accredited travel agents in the country to sell, issue, and settle W2 tickets in Armenian dram through their existing BSP setup – with instant ticketing and no additional configuration.