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WTTC: HONG KONG HAS POTENTIAL TO RE-EMERGE AS A LEADING DESTINATION FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVELLERS

WTTC: HONG KONG HAS POTENTIAL TO RE-EMERGE AS A LEADING DESTINATION FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVELLERS

1 April 2026 Press Release Tourism News Organisations & Operators

Hong Kong SAR, China can re-establish itself as a go-to destination for international travellers by investing in key source markets, new World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) research reveals. The WTTC report ‘Travel & Tourism in Hong Kong SAR, China: Recovery, Gaps, and the Road Ahead’ recommends that the city expand its reach into higher-yield segments and new geographies, specifically targeting mainland cities beyond Guangdong, as well as fast-growing markets in ASEAN, the Middle East, and India. Hong Kong dominated several categories at the World Travel Awards 2025, securing major global and regional titles. The city’s aviation and hospitality sectors were particularly successful, with Hong Kong International Airport winning the prestigious World’s Leading Airport for Customer Experience.

Oceania Cruises® Announces the Industry’s First Floating Pastry Academy

Oceania Cruises® Announces the Industry’s First Floating Pastry Academy

1 April 2026 Press Release Cruise News Food & Beverage Travel News

Oceania Cruises®, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused luxury cruise line, today revealed The Floating Pastry Academy, a new multi-year training program for its onboard chefs, and first of its kind for the cruise industry, created in partnership with revered digital training platform, The Butter Book®. Through the new training partnership, more than 200 Oceania Cruises pastry and bakery chefs will complete the three-year program which will mix theory with practical assessments, both online and in person on board its vessels.

DYLAN’S CANDY BAR NOW OPEN AT ATLANTIS PARADISE ISLAND IN THE BAHAMAS

DYLAN’S CANDY BAR NOW OPEN AT ATLANTIS PARADISE ISLAND IN THE BAHAMAS

1 April 2026 Press Release Hotel News Organisations & Operators

Dylan’s Candy Bar, the world-renowned candy and lifestyle destination founded by Dylan Lauren, is now open at Atlantis Paradise Island, the iconic oceanfront resort in the Bahamas. Located in Marina Village, Atlantis’ premier shopping and dining destination, the new Dylan’s Candy Bar outpost offers guests and locals a one-of-a-kind experience filled with whimsical design, candy-inspired gifts, and an unparalleled selection of sweets from around the world.

Series by Marriott Debuts in Japan with the Opening of Sugata Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi

Series by Marriott Debuts in Japan with the Opening of Sugata Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi

1 April 2026 Press Release Hotel News Organisations & Operators

Series by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of 256-room Sugata Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi, Series by Marriott in Shinsaibashi district, one of Osaka’s most dynamic commercial and lifestyle neighbourhoods. The opening marks the debut of Series by Marriott in Japan, a collection brand that connects travelers to the character of each destination through distinctive design, intuitive comfort and curated experiences rooted in local culture.

Hostaway Launches Booking Website Pro to Strengthen Direct Booking Strategies for Property Managers

Hostaway Launches Booking Website Pro to Strengthen Direct Booking Strategies for Property Managers

Leading vacation rental software Hostaway has today launched Booking Website Pro, upgrading its website capabilities with AI-driven marketing and SEO tools to help professional property managers diversify their channel mix, increase direct bookings, and build stronger independent brands.

Zannier Bãi San Hô to reopen on 1st April 2026 following major restauration after typhoon Kalmaegi

Zannier Bãi San Hô to reopen on 1st April 2026 following major restauration after typhoon Kalmaegi

1 April 2026 Press Release Hotel News Organisations & Operators

After several months of intensive restoration, Zannier Bãi San Hô will once again open doors to welcome guests today, 1 April 2026. The reopening follows the devastating impact of Typhoon Kalmaegi, which forced the property – widely regarded as one of Vietnam’s most acclaimed luxury coastal destinations – to close late last year.

Chiva-Som Hua Hin Invites Runners to Experience Wellness in Motion at the 2026 Hua Hin Marathon

Chiva-Som Hua Hin Invites Runners to Experience Wellness in Motion at the 2026 Hua Hin Marathon

Set along the tranquil Gulf of Thailand coastline, the Hua Hin Marathon 2026 is set to return on 10 May, offering runners the opportunity to combine athletic ambition with environmental purpose.  Organised by the Preserve Hua Hin Group, which is led by globally acclaimed wellness destination Chiva-Som, the marathon attracts local and international runners who seek not only the exhilaration of the race but also the chance to support local conservation efforts, including the preservation of Krailart Niwate, Hua Hin’s last remaining urban mangrove.

The Grenada Chocolate Festival Returns for 2026

The Grenada Chocolate Festival Returns for 2026

Planting a cocoa sapling, making beauty products featuring cocoa and sea moss along with tasting, making and cooking with chocolate are just some of the experiences on offer in the 2026 Grenada Chocolate Festival, 22-27 May.  The programme features tours, tastings and hands on workshops to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the ‘tree to bar’ journey to transform cocoa pods on the tree into delicious chocolate and much more.

Coconut Bay, Saint Lucia Launches New Wedding Package Exclusive to UK Travellers

Coconut Bay, Saint Lucia Launches New Wedding Package Exclusive to UK Travellers

From barefoot ceremonies on powder-soft white sand to elegant vows beneath an oceanfront gazebo, weddings at Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa are designed to be truly unforgettable. Every couple benefits from the expertise of a dedicated pre-travel wedding planner, complemented by an on-site coordinator who seamlessly manages every detail — from décor and logistics to music and timing. The result is a flawlessly executed celebration, allowing couples to relax and savour every moment from arrival through to “I do.”

Sowing AlUla’s Green Future: 1 Million Native Plants Initiative to Transform AlUla

Sowing AlUla’s Green Future: 1 Million Native Plants Initiative to Transform AlUla

Marking a monumental step in its sustainable development and tourism ambitions, AlUla has produced more than 1 million native seedlings that will be integrated into the fabric of the Saudi destination.  This undertaking, achieved through the AlUla Native Plant Nursery and Seedbank, underscores the Royal Commission for AlUla’s (RCU) commitment to restoring the destination’s natural environment while shaping how visitors experience it.

Upgraded Koningsdam returns ahead of Alaska season

Upgraded Koningsdam returns ahead of Alaska season

1 April 2026 Press Release Cruise News Organisations & Operators

Holland America Line’s Koningsdam is back in service following a two‑week dry dock in the Bahamas. The Pinnacle-class ship has received a series of enhancements ahead of its upcoming Alaska season. The line has added five new, larger ocean view staterooms. Each stateroom accommodates up to four guests and features two beds that convert to a queen-size bed, along with a double sofa bed. Four of the staterooms are connecting, allowing larger groups to book together. 22 Vista Suites were also upgraded with new sofa beds.