Tourism News Page 138
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European Commission announces European Capitals of Tourism competition 2027
Today, the European Commission launches the 2027 edition of the European Capitals of Tourism competition1. Tourism destinations across Europe are invited to submit their innovative practices in smart and sustainable tourism and position themselves as leading examples in European tourism. As one of the EU’s largest economic sectors, tourism plays a key role in economic growth and job creation. The initiative recognises cities implementing innovative solutions, including digitalisation, accessibility, sustainability and support to cultural heritage, creativity and local talent.
Oceania Cruises® Announces the Reinspiration of Oceania Marina™
Oceania Cruises®, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused luxury cruise line, today announced plans for a comprehensive reinspiration of its acclaimed ship, Oceania Marina™. Scheduled to enter dry dock in October 2026, Oceania Marina will undergo an extensive transformation. Every stateroom will be thoughtfully redesigned, complemented by considered enhancements across all public spaces, ensuring the ship reflects Oceania Cruises’ signature blend of residential luxury, timeless design and understated elegance.
Sandbox Festival 2026 Brings Dixon, Bedouin & Floorplan to Egypt’s Red Sea
Sandbox Festival returns to Egypt’s Red Sea coast this May 7-9, delivering three days of world-class electronic music against one of the Mediterranean’s most stunning backdrops. The festival’s 12th edition brings together Dixon, Bedouin, Floorplan, DJ Tennis, and Craig Richards alongside 50+ international artists across five meticulously designed stages in the luxury coastal town of El Gouna.
New Wave of Wellness at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas
The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas is serving up the latest trend in racquet sports, with the arrival of two new padel courts. The padel courts, illuminated for nighttime play, accompany three Har-Tru tennis courts, all newly resurfaced for a premium court experience. Located steps away from the gorgeous, tiered Versailles Gardens and picturesque waterfall lagoon pool, the courts are easily walkable from the main resort guestroom wings.
SOUTHWEST AIRLINES POPS THE CORK ON SANTA ROSA SERVICE
Southwest Airlines Co. began service in Santa Rosa, California’s Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport today. To celebrate the airline’s wine country expansion, Southwest® will introduce a new Sip and Ship™ program 1, which will allow Southwest Customers to check one case of wine at no cost from select West Coast locations starting later this month.
Universal Studios Japan Hotel “Oriental Hotel Universal City”
Osaka is one of Japan’s most popular destinations for international travelers. Historically a thriving merchant city, Osaka is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, the warmth of its people, and a rich, diverse culinary scene. From local favorites like “takoyaki” and “okonomiyaki” to world-class shopping and entertainment, the city offers an accessible and exciting experience that draws visitors from across the globe. Of course, being home to the world-renowned theme park, Universal Studios Japan, is another major reason travelers flock to this city.
BLESS Ibiza The Site to Open in June
BLESS COLLECTION HOTELS TO OPEN A NEW ICON OF CONTEMPORARY LUXURY IN IBIZA BLESS Ibiza The Site will open in June, bringing a refined and sophisticated hospitality concept that reinterprets Mediterranean essence to the destination. The Site Ibiza, the innovative destination driven by Palladium Hotel Group, will be home to the second BLESS Collection Hotels property in Ibiza. The Site Ibiza places the island’s creative and innovative spirits at its core and is a result of the group’s deep knowledge of and long-standing commitment to Ibiza.
The Hoxton Is Bringing Dream Parties to Life Across The Globe
The Hoxton is no stranger to a good party. For the past 20 years, it has played host to just about every kind of celebration in some of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods across Europe and the US. But this spring, the tables are turning. The Hoxton is calling on party people to pitch their dream shindig, with the chance to see it brought to life for real, on the house.
Holland America Line unveils Caribbean offer
Holland America Line has launched a ‘Fly and Cruise Caribbean’ offer for its 2026/27 season from today (April 7, 2026) to August 31, 2026. The offer comprises: * £600pp air credit * A free one-night pre cruise hotel stay * Free return transfers from the airport, hotel and ship
Travelsphere launches new escorted tours
Travelsphere has unveiled four new escorted tours for 2027, covering mainland Europe and southern Africa. The tours, which are on sale from today (April 8, 2026), comprise:
SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Announces the Return of SeaBloom
SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the World’s Largest Indoor Marine Life Theme Park, welcomes this year’s blossoming spring season with SeaBloom Celebration in its second edition, running until April 26. Guests can enjoy a new live show, marine life-themed sand art sculptures, stimulating educational challenges and exclusive meet and greets with SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s characters, making for a memorable experience.
The release of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) 2025 Annual Report
The release of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) 2025 Annual Report marks a defining moment in the emirate’s strategic evolution as a global destination. The figures tell a compelling story—not just of growth, but of maturation across both tourism and cultural sectors, reflecting a deliberate shift toward sustainable, high-value development.