Tourism News Page 206
ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES ANNOUNCES LUXURY EXPEDITION SAILING YACHT
Atlas Ocean Voyages today announced that it is currently building its first-ever luxury expedition sailing yacht, a next-generation newbuild platform that represents a significant milestone in the company’s continued evolution and growth within the luxury expedition cruise industry.
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A Valentine’s Escape at Crossroads Maldives Love, On Your Own Terms
At CROSSROADS Maldives, Valentine’s Day is treated not as a single evening gesture but as a full-day celebration shaped by choice, movement and shared experience. Set across two islands connected by the lagoon, the destination invites couples to create their own rhythm of romance — moving effortlessly between energy, creativity and calm.
Guatemala Emerges as a Top Travel Trend for 2026, Reports Journey Latin America
Specialist tour operator Journey Latin America is delighted to announce a significant rise in demand for holidays to Central America — with Guatemala emerging as one of 2026’s fastest‑growing Central American destinations. Long beloved by backpackers for its affordability, adventure and culture — from smouldering volcanoes to vibrant chicken buses — Guatemala has traditionally flown under the radar for luxury travellers. That is now rapidly changing as discerning visitors increasingly seek out both its iconic sights and hidden gems. With a surge in demand fuelled by MICHELIN recognition, high‑profile media exposure, and renewed traveller curiosity, Guatemala is stepping confidently into the spotlight.
GRAND MERCURE BUSINESS BAY OPENS IN DUBAI FOLLOWING THE REBRANDING OF GULF COURT HOTEL BUSINESS BAY
Grand Mercure Business Bay has officially opened its doors in Dubai following the rebranding of Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay, owned and managed by Gulf Hotels Group (GHG), under a franchise agreement with Accor. This milestone marks a new chapter for the hotel, shaped by Grand Mercure’s distinctive approach to hospitality that celebrates pride of place through refined grandeur, cultural immersion and heartfelt human connection. Rooted in international hospitality standards while deeply anchored in its destination, Grand Mercure Business Bay reflects the brand’s philosophy of elevating locality through meaningful gestures, warm rituals and intentional service.
Rotana Strengthens Saudi Portfolio with the Signing of Centro Hail
Rotana, one of the leading hotel management companies in the region, has announced the signing of Centro Hail, a next-generation lifestyle hotel to be developed in collaboration with Alkhorayef Investment and Development Co. and the Tourism Development Fund (TDF).
andBeyond Phinda Zuka Lodge returns after a soulful refurbishment
andBeyond Phinda Zuka Lodge reopened on 18 December 2025 after a thoughtful refurbishment, welcoming guests back to a place that feels both familiar and entirely new. Emerging as a next-generation private safari retreat designed for intimate gatherings, perfect for small groups, multi-generational families and milestone celebrations. The result is a key destination shaped for life’s most meaningful moments, carried by the warm, effortless hospitality that has always defined the Zuka experience. As part of andBeyond’s ongoing commitment to investing in its lodge portfolio, this much-loved lodge within Phinda Private Game Reserve returns as a home for every generation.
Dubai named ‘World’s Leading Sustainable City’ at World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards
Dubai has been recognised with the title of ’World’s Leading Sustainable City 2025’ by voters at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards. The prize was revealed in front of hundreds of global leaders of sustainable tourism at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025, held at Terra, Expo City Dubai. The VIP ceremony recognised the individuals and organisations that are accelerating change in net positive tourism.
roomangel Foundation introduces Assetware, a new intelligence category for hospitality
The roomangel Foundation today announced the introduction of Assetware, a new intelligence category designed to redefine how artificial intelligence is connected, governed, and applied across the hospitality industry. The announcement was made during the Hotel Revolution Summit Dubai, where industry leaders gathered to examine the structural changes reshaping hotel performance in an increasingly AI-driven world.
World Travel Awards calls for 2026 entries
The Call for Entries for the World Travel Awards 2026 is now open. Travel and tourism organisations worldwide are invited to submit their entries for the opportunity to win the industry’s most prestigious accolade. Organisations demonstrating market-leading excellence are encouraged to participate. All available categories can be viewed online. The application process is quick and straightforward, and entries are submitted via the World Travel Awards website.
Monumental land art exhibition opens in the ancient oasis of AlUla
This week marks the official opening of Desert X AlUla 2026, the landmark fourth edition of the international, open-air biennial exhibition. Arts AlUla, in collaboration with Desert X, welcomes visitors to experience a stellar line-up of Saudi and international multi-generational artists whose site-responsive earthworks, sculptures, and installations will engage in a powerful dialogue with the awe-inspiring landscapes and layered heritage of AlUla.
Ocean Casino Resort Celebrates Grand Opening of Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar
Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar officially opened its doors at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City on January 17 following a grand opening celebration with a special appearance by actor Christopher McDonald, aka “Shooter McGavin” in Happy Gilmore, and also known for his role on HBO Max’s Hacks. During the celebration, McDonald participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony and mingled with guests and tried his hand on the mini golf course. MTV’s Jersey Shore stars Sammi Giancola aka “Sammi Sweetheart” and Jenni Farley aka “JWoww” also stopped by the event to take a few swings on the course. Located on the Casino Level next to LaScala’s Fire, Ocean’s 18 is the first mini golf course ever built inside an Atlantic City casino and features a full-service bar.
Outform Launches Hospitality Division to Accelerate Brand-Driven Guest Experiences
Outform Group, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, “Outform” or the “Company”), an award-winning global innovation and experience agency, today announced the launch of Outform Hospitality, a dedicated business division designed to help hospitality brands rapidly design, source, and deliver high-quality guest environments at scale and with greater cost control.