Tourism News Page 108
Travel Data Insights from Opodo Uncover the Airport Habits That Unite (and Divide) Travellers
Leading online travel agent, Opodo, part of the eDreams ODIGEO family (which also includes brands like eDreams, Go Voyages, Liligo and Travellink) has shared its latest poll uncovering traveller’s airport habits and what drives us crazy - from cutting queues to leaving trash behind, the global poll of 9000* respondents included 2000 from the UK, reveals all.
Ramble Worldwide Celebrates 75 Years of the Lake District & National Walking Month
This May, Ramble Worldwide, is celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Lake District National Park (9th May) and National Walking Month by offering up to 20% off bookings on its Hassness House holidays in Buttermere and double loyalty points on bookings for all its tours around the world. 2026 is a landmark year for lovers of the great outdoors and walkers, with Ramble Worldwide celebrating its 80th anniversary and the National Parks of the Peak District, Lake District, Snowdonia and Dartmoor marking 75 years since they were formed to conserve the UK’s natural beauty and provide recreational opportunities for the public.
Vision Walks Eco-Tours Joins Australian Wildlife Journeys, Strengthening Premium Nature Tourism
Vision Walks Eco-Tours is renowned for its deeply engaging nature experiences that connect guests with the landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the Byron Bay region and hinterland, on Bundjalung country. The company specialises in small-group, guided eco-tours led by local experts and ecologists, with backgrounds in environmental science, offering an advanced level of insight and interpretation of local ecosystems. Founder Wendy Bithell said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to conservation, storytelling, and meaningful travel experiences.
Health City Cayman Islands Hosts Inaugural Cancer Survivors Wellness Retreat
Health City Cayman Islands welcomed survivors for a day of healing and hope as it launched its inaugural Cancer Survivors Wellness Retreat last month, featuring a leading expert from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Through its corporate social responsibility initiative, Health City Cares, the hospital hosted the full-day program at VIDA Cayman Islands in West Bay, creating a supportive oceanfront environment for cancer survivors to focus on wellness, connection and life beyond treatment.
The Westin Playa Vallarta Debuts as Westin’s First All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico
The Westin Playa Vallarta, an All-Inclusive Resort has officially opened as Westin’s first all-inclusive property in Mexico. Located along the shores of Banderas Bay, the resort introduces a refined, experience-driven interpretation of all-inclusive travel – one shaped by thoughtful design, chef-led culinary experiences, and Westin’s longstanding commitment to well-being. Formerly The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta, the property has undergone an extensive, multi-million dollar transformation spanning its guest rooms and new adults-only swim-up suites, dining venues, wellness spaces, and more. The result is a thoughtfully refreshed resort experience that balances Westin’s philosophy of well-being with the ease and rhythm of life on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, creating a foundation for a stay defined by comfort, stunning design, and connection to place.
VIRGIN ATLANTIC SERVES UP FRESH SPRING/SUMMER 2026 MENU
Virgin Atlantic is welcoming the new season with fresh food and drink options onboard and in the Heathrow Clubhouse. The new menus are as bold and vibrant as the destinations the airline flies to, with flavour-packed dishes, regional twists and a reimagined drinks selection across every cabin from 6th May.
Air Canada Expands Ontario Connectivity with New Coach Connections to Niagara Falls
From this summer, Air Canada is offering a new year-round coach connection service from Toronto Pearson International Airport to the Niagara Falls region, starting on 15 June 2026. The seamless service enables convenient onward travel for passengers from Ireland, with travel agents able to book through connections for customers between Dublin and Niagara (YCM). The fare is aligned with a standard Dublin-to-Toronto itinerary and includes the integrated coach transfer, enabling passengers to travel easily to Niagara.
Cheval Collection builds on success of Dubai branded residences debut
Cheval Collection, the UK-based, award-winning hospitality company specialising in luxury serviced apartments, is expanding its branded residences offering with Cheval Residences Knightsbridge Gate, just two weeks after the launch of Cheval Residences Dubai Islands. Cheval Residences Knightsbridge Gate is the UK flagship Cheval Collection’s branded residences business, with further properties currently under negotiation. Its launch comes hot on the heels of the unveiling of Cheval Residences Dubai Islands, the group’s first branded residences property, set for completion in 2029. More Cheval Collection branded residences and hotel apartment offerings are planned for the Middle East, adding to existing Cheval Maison hotel apartments at Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah and Expo City, and upcoming offerings in Riyadh.
EgyptAir Takes Delivery of First Boeing 737 MAX Jet
Boeing and EgyptAir announced today the Egyptian national airline took delivery of its first 737 MAX. The 737-8 is the first of 18 airplanes leased from SMBC Aviation Capital to be delivered and represents the first 737 MAX in Egypt. “The delivery of our first Boeing 737 MAX marks a significant milestone in our fleet modernization strategy. By integrating the 737-8 into our operations, EgyptAir Holding is committed to providing our passengers with a superior travel experience while achieving greater operational efficiency,” said Captain Ahmed Adel, chairman and CEO of EgyptAir Holding Company. “This aircraft’s advanced technology and reduced environmental footprint align perfectly with our vision for sustainable growth and our dedication to maintaining a young, state-of-the-art fleet that connects Egypt to the world.”
Southwest Airlines Committed to Las Vegas and Orlando, Linking Dozens of Cities with New Flights
Southwest Airlines is reinforcing a decades-long commitment to both Las Vegas (LAS) and Orlando (MCO) by adding waves of new flights beginning this spring and continuing through Spring 2027. The enhanced flight schedules build on the carrier’s longstanding position as the largest air carrier in both communities and bring new ways to travel nonstop between dozens of cities and two of the most dynamic leisure and convention markets in the United States.
Summer takes off: Three brand new Aer Lingus routes take to the skies
Aer Lingus will expand its summer schedule by introducing three new short-haul routes. A new service from Cork to Nice will commence on Saturday, while two new routes from Dublin to Norway’s capital Oslo and Asturias, a hidden gem in the north of Spain, will also take off for the first time. Seasonal routes from Dublin to Pisa in Italy’s Tuscany region, Catania in Sicily, Nantes in France, and the Greek islands of Santorini and Corfu, will also return this weekend, offering Aer Lingus customers a wide range of options for summer getaways.
Lufthansa launches new Premium Onboard Experience in all classes on all long-haul flights
One airline, two years of development, three clear principles, and four cabin classes – FOX takes off – FOX stands for Future Onboard Experience and will be Lufthansa’s new long-haul service starting May 6. The new service concept represents one of the largest investments in the premium onboard customer experience in the airline’s history. With a clear focus on the guest, all onboard service elements and processes have been redesigned: across all travel classes and on all long-haul flights—with and without Allegris—and on all aircraft types. The new First Class service was launched at the end of March, with Business, Premium Economy, and Economy Class following on May 6.