Tourism News Page 312
Thailand drives journey to sustainable tourism leadership
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has reaffirmed its role as a global leader in sustainable and responsible tourism, underscoring its commitment to embed sustainability across the country’s tourism supply chain. Guided by its self-initiated 17 Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs) and the Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR), TAT is working with local partners, global organisations, and communities to ensure that travel to Thailand creates long-term value for people, planet, and prosperity.
UFC launches promotional video for the first ever Fight Night in Qatar
For the first time, Qatar will host this highly anticipated night at the state-of-the-art Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena on Saturday, November 22, featuring the iconic Octagon®, marking a historic moment for combat sports fans in the region and a new milestone in UFC’s global expansion journey.
RIU opens its first hotel in Canada: the Riu Plaza Toronto
RIU Hotels & Resorts reaches a new milestone in its international expansion by opening its first hotel in Canada: the Riu Plaza Toronto. This newly built four-star hotel has 352 rooms. It’s located in the heart of Toronto’s skyline in the vibrant Entertainment District, one of the city’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. The project comprises two twin skyscrapers, each with 49 floors. RIU’s new hotel covers 23 floors in one skyscraper, with the rest of the building to be used for housing. The facade of the building is made up of two different styles and materials: a brick base matching the neighbouring 18th century housing, protected due to its historic significance, and an upper glass structure, adding a modern and contemporary element.
Jet2.com and Jet2CityBreaks put Winter 26/27 Iceland programme on sale
Jet2.com and Jet2CityBreaks have announced details of their once-in-a-lifetime trips to Iceland for Winter 26/27, with fights and city breaks on sale from seven of their UK airport bases. The exciting programme from the leading leisure airline and UK’s largest operator of city breaks to Europe includes more scheduled flights from Manchester and London Stansted Airports, as customers look to enjoy all that the Nordic Island has to offer.
Delta, Spanx launch limited-edition merch collection available exclusively on Delta Shop
The two Atlanta-based brands are teaming up to launch a female-focused collection featuring Spanx’s signature AirEssentials fabric and subtle Delta branding. Designed for comfort and style, the pieces are perfect for travel and everyday wear.
Dubai calendar unveils a spectacular line-up of events for October 2025
Dubai Calendar, the city’s official event listings platform, has unveiled an exciting line-up of events for October 2025, promising residents and visitors a month of world-class entertainment and unforgettable experiences. From stand-up comedy, major sporting events and live concerts to theatre and family shows, October in Dubai offers something for every taste and passion.
Aer Lingus launches biggest ever transatlantic schedule for 2026
Aer Lingus has announced its largest ever transatlantic summer schedule for 2026 as well as further expansion of its long-haul network with the introduction of a new direct service from Dublin to Raleigh-Durham International Airport, North Carolina, next year.
Sapphire Sands Villas to Open on Saint Lucia’s Reduit Beach
Bay Gardens Resorts Group today announced the upcoming debut of Sapphire Sands Villas, a new beachfront villa retreat set directly on Reduit Beach in Rodney Bay Village. Opening inFebruary 2026, the property will offer travelers a refined yet relaxed way to enjoy one of Saint Lucia’s most beloved destinations.
Norwegian Group Places New Order for Boeing 737 MAX
Boeing and Norwegian Group announced today that the airline group has placed an order for 30 737-8 airplanes as the airline looks to expand its service across Europe. The agreement represents the group’s first direct Boeing order since 2017 and increases their 737 MAX order book to 80 airplanes.
Paradise found: Etihad Airways returns to Zanzibar with summer flights
Etihad Airways is bringing back a favourite with the relaunch of seasonal flights to Zanzibar, the Indian Ocean’s legendary spice island. From 14 June until 6 September 2026, Etihad will operate four weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Zanzibar, giving travellers the perfect gateway to palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant Swahili culture. Zanzibar becomes Etihad’s 30th destination announced this year, reinforcing the airline’s ambitious global expansion. The decision to return has been facilitated by Etihad’s larger and more complete European network, with multiple double-daily services now feeding Abu Dhabi. With two major European banks creating efficient connections in both directions, Zanzibar is now more accessible than ever for guests from Europe and the GCC. The seasonal service taps into strong summer demand for the destination from across these regions and complements Etihad’s growing global network.
Red Sea Global launches Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course
Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has officially opened Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course, on Shura Island at The Red Sea.
WTTC Announces $8BN Investment Commitments for Italy at Global Summit in Rome
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), today revealed a major vote of confidence in Italy’s Travel & Tourism sector, as its Members committed more than $8BN of new investment during the closing ceremony of the Global Summit in Rome. This landmark pledge, unveiled on stage before global leaders and industry executives, represents one of the largest ever investment commitments made at a WTTC Summit.