Tourism News Page 120
Etihad Supercharges U.S. Network: Chicago Goes Double Daily as Charlotte Rises to Daily Service
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is accelerating its growth in the United States with two major enhancements to its North American network, increasing capacity and connectivity across key markets. Chicago O’Hare will move to double-daily service, while Charlotte will increase to daily flights from 15 June, building on strong early performance following the launch of services on 20 March 2026. Together, the enhancements significantly expand Etihad’s U.S. footprint, strengthening connectivity between North America and high-growth markets across India and Asia-Pacific, while improving access to the U.S. domestic network through partner airlines.
Neupass partners with Etihad Guest to expand global loyalty reach
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, today announced a frequent flyer partnership between its Taj InnerCircle-Neupass and Etihad Guest, the award-winning loyalty programme of Etihad Airways. This alliance will offer Etihad Guest members enhanced travel and stay benefits across participating hotels worldwide.
Qatar Airways Resumes Daily Services to the United Arab Emirates and Syria
Qatar Airways announces resumption of flight operations between Doha and key destinations across the Middle East, reinstating daily services to the United Arab Emirates and Syria. Starting 23 April 2026, Qatar Airways will resume daily flights to Dubai (DXB), and Sharjah (SHJ), with a daily service to Damascus (DAM) commencing on 1 May 2026.
Conrad Athens The Ilisian Opens, Redefining an Athenian Landmark
Hilton today announces the opening of Conrad Athens The Ilisian, marking the rebirth of one of Athens’ most iconic landmarks. Formerly the beloved Hilton Athens, the property has undergone a significant transformation to emerge as a contemporary urban resort in the cultural heart of Athens.
Hilton To More than Double its Portfolio in Morocco with New Signings and Debut of Waldorf Astoria
Hilton is on track to more than double its portfolio in Morocco, with plans to open 15 new hotels in destinations across the kingdom. Latest agreements include the debut of Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Morocco, alongside the continued expansion of Hilton’s multi-brand presence across Curio Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn. Hilton also recently opened Waldorf Astoria Rabat Salé, marking the luxury brand’s first hotel in the country.
British Airways launches special fares to celebrate 90 years of flying between Nigeria and the UK
British Airways proudly begins celebrations to mark the 90th anniversary of its first flight between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, a historic milestone that reflects nine decades of connecting communities, supporting trade, and deepening cultural ties between the two regions. To mark the occasion, British Airways has today launched a flash sale for customers travelling between Nigeria and London Heathrow. The special fares include up to 10% off World Traveller (long-haul economy) fares, with prices from USD 990 from Abuja and USD 1090 from Lagos. As well as Club World (business class) fares from USD 3490 from Abuja and USD 3690 from Lagos, all to London Heathrow*.
Pom Thaï Ibiza Returns to Ibiza for Summer 2026
Pom Thaï (www.pomthairestaurant.com) Ibiza will open for the 2026 summer season on 1st May, marking the return of one of the island’s most coveted late-night dining spots for islanders in-the-know. A long-standing fixture on Ibiza’s restaurant scene, Pom Thaï has built a loyal following for its high-energy atmosphere and modern Thai cuisine. Each season, it draws a mix of international visitors, returning regulars and music industry crowd – including globally renowned DJs and creatives - looking for a place where dinner naturally extends into the evening.
27 Trees get a New Home at Brahman Hills
Twenty-seven mature Plane trees have found a new home at Brahman Hills, where they now form part of what is set to become one of South Africa’s most ambitious garden developments. At over 20 hectares, The Serenity Garden development in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands is being designed on a scale rarely seen in private garden projects. The record-breaking labyrinth will include expansive garden rooms, water features, an underground orchid house, olive garden, and an African Art Museum, all designed by landscape artist Tim Steyn and developed intentionally as part of a long-term landscape legacy project.
New Propellic research reveals a collapse in travel bookings beyond the Middle East
Propellic, the leading full-service travel marketing agency, has released today its Propellic Travel Marketing Index: Special Intelligence Briefing, The Impact of the 2026 Middle East Conflict on Travel Marketing. The report, which draws on 30 days of live performance data across more than 60 middle-market travel brands and 27 destinations, reveals a consistent and alarming pattern: traveler research is surging while booking conversions have collapsed. The Middle East conflict has created what Propellic researchers are calling a “frozen pipeline”. In other words, a structural breakdown between traveler intent and commercial action. Across every Focus region analyzed, sessions and impressions have increased significantly, while transactions have fallen to zero or near-zero. The data suggests that much of the elevated traffic may reflect existing travelers checking cancellation terms and monitoring safety advisories rather than researching new trips in the region.
Omni Hotels & Resorts Launches Nationwide Celebration of Heritage and Timeless Traditions
Omni Hotels & Resorts is launching a year-long celebration across its properties nationwide, reimagining America’s cherished pastimes and timeless traditions in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Rooted in the brand’s American heritage, the initiative honors the spirit of travel, shared history and togetherness that has defined Omni for decades. Omni’s celebrations kick off with the launch of a dedicated microsite and brand campaign, entitled “Celebrate America,” reinforcing the brand’s position as America’s Hotel Company during this milestone year.
Three Distinct “Skillcations” by Four Seasons Resorts of Thailand
A new era of luxury travel is emerging in Thailand—one that prioritises purpose alongside relaxation. Shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and regional diversity, Thailand offers a natural foundation for experiential travel, where traditional knowledge systems continue to inform modern-day learning. From the agricultural traditions of the north to the wellness practices of its islands, the country’s cultural depth and geographic diversity make it uniquely suited to skill-based travel—where craft, cuisine, community, and wellbeing are experienced through participation rather than observation.
Aloha! oneworld welcomes Hawaiian Airlines to alliance
oneworld® has welcomed Hawaiian Airlines as its newest member airline, becoming the third US-based carrier alongside Alaska Airlines and American Airlines and adding Honolulu as a global hub. With Hawaiian Airlines on board, oneworld’s global network offers greater travel opportunities across the Hawaiian Islands and new destinations in the Pacific including Hilo, Hawai’i; Rarotonga, Cook Islands; Pago Pago, American Samoa; and Papeete, Tahiti.