Tourism News Page 523
Qatar Airways Launches Off-Airport Check-in Service in Makkah for Hajj and Umrah Passengers
Qatar Airways, the World’s Best Airline as voted by Skytrax 2024, has introduced off-airport check-in service in Makkah, providing Hajj and Umrah passengers with a seamless and hassle-free travel experience. Launched in partnership with Saudi Ground Services (SGS), this service enables passengers to complete check-in formalities, receive their boarding passes, and the baggage to be collected from the city, ensuring a smooth journey to the airport.
Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways Partnership Takes Off
Australian travellers are set to benefit after a deeper strategic partnership between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways Group was given the green light by the Australian Government. Qatar Airways Group’s minority 25 per cent investment in Virgin Australia has now received Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval following the Federal Treasurer’s announcement today. This follows the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Draft Determination on 18 February indicating its intention to authorise the airlines’ integrated alliance, with final approval expected in March/April 2025. Together, they help open the door to the airline’s return to long-haul international flying.
Robinsons Hotels and Resorts: Pioneering Success in the Philippine Hospitality Sector
In the dynamic landscape of the Philippine hospitality industry, Robinsons Hotels and Resorts (RHR), the hospitality arm of Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC), has emerged as a trailblazer, poised to claim the mantle of the country’s premier hotel group. With a strategic focus on diversification, innovation, and expansive geographic reach, RHR stands at the forefront of transforming the hospitality experience across the archipelago.
Hyatt Announces The Opening Of Andaz Doha In Qatar
Hyatt Hotels Corporation today announced the opening of Andaz Doha, marking the debut of the lifestyle brand in Qatar and the fourth Hyatt brand in the city. Located in the prestigious West Bay, less than a 20-minute drive from Hamad International Airport, Andaz Doha offers a window to explore the city’s wonders and cultural attractions including City Center Doha Mall, the Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC), Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Centre and more.
IHG Hotels & Resorts Brings Unforgettable Experiences to Guests and Rugby Fans
In its second year as the Official Hotel Partner of the Guinness Men’s and Women’s Six Nations, IHG Hotels & Resorts kicked off the excitement on Saturday ahead of the Round 3 matches with not one but three memorable pre-game experiences. Ahead of the England v. Scotland clash in Twickenham, rugby fans and guests staying at the nearby Holiday Inn London - Brentford Lock were treated to a surprise performance of the English and Scottish national anthems by singer, songwriter, and actress Pixie Lott, and Scottish singer and songwriter Tom Walker, to get fans pumped ahead of the match.
Hilton Expands Footprint in India’s Diamond City with the Opening of Hilton Garden Inn Surat City
Hilton today announced the opening of Hilton Garden Inn Surat City Centre, marking the debut of its globally recognised focused service brand, Hilton Garden Inn, in Gujarat. This launch further strengthens Hilton’s presence in the state, a vital economic corridor where the company currently operates DoubleTree by Hilton Ahmedabad and Hampton by Hilton Vadodara-Alkapuri.
SEABOURN ANNOUNCES NEW “AUTHORS AT SEA” PROGRAM, FEATURING BEST-SELLING AUTHORS AND LITERARY STARS
Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury cruising and expedition travel, is further enhancing its diverse and enrichment offerings with the launch of “Authors at Sea,” a new program available on select sailings featuring best-selling authors, historians and biographers, along with live events and hands-on workshops for aspiring authors.
Exciting New Activities are Blossoming this Spring at Four Seasons Resort Orlando
With spring just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to dream of leaving the cold and snow behind and escaping to sun-filled poolside bliss at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort for an unforgettable spring break. The AAA Five Diamond Resort, named the #1 Best Hotel and Best Resort in Walt Disney World by U.S. News & World Report, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, with more activities than ever before, offering a thoughtfully curated balance of family entertainment and adult relaxation.
New Kid-Friendly Interactive Adventure Zone Themed Around SeaWorld’s Animal Rescue Efforts to open
SeaWorld San Antonio announced today the grand opening date of Rescue Jr., an immersive, kid-friendly adventure zone designed to inspire and entertain guests of all ages. The new attraction will open March 8 and offer thrilling rides and interactive play areas that highlight SeaWorld’s rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation efforts. Guests are invited to attend the Grand Opening Ceremony at 11am to officially open the attraction. SeaWorld Pass Members will get an exclusive early preview on March 7.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN MAXIMIZES EVERY MINUTE OF SHORT CARIBBEAN GETAWAYS IN 2026-27
Vacationers can put down their to-do lists and pack their bags with Royal Caribbean’s latest combination of 2026-27 short getaways. More ways to max out memory-making to the world’s top destinations are in store across a wide lineup of 2- to 5-night vacations on 11 bold Royal Caribbean ships. Headlining the lineup are four show-stopping Oasis Class adventures with Utopia, Wonder, Harmony and Oasis of the Seas across Port Canaveral (Orlando), Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Adventurers of all ages can also choose to escape any time of year across Florida and Texas with vacations on Mariner and Explorer to even more ways to make the most of short getaways on Liberty, Freedom, Vision, Rhapsody and Grandeur of the Seas. Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members can be among the first to book the all-encompassing lineup on Royal Caribbean’s website ahead of the official opening on Thursday, Feb. 27.
DidaTravel launches a bold new brand identity
DidaTravel, a leading B2B travel distribution company, today announced the launch of a dynamic new identity and its decision to simplify its brand name to ‘Dida’. The new brand identity was developed in response to the feedback of its supplier and client partners around the world who consistently identified Dida’s high-value distribution reach, technological expertise and the flexibility of its international teams as its main differentiators.
International Women’s Day 2025: Celebrating Women in Tourism in Scotland
Scotland is a land steeped in fascinating history and filled with magical tales and experiences for visitors to explore and enjoy. As the world celebrates International Women’s Day on 8 March, it’s a time to reflect on the stories and achievements of Scotland’s well-known women, alongside the unsung heroines who influence the country we know today. From distinguished scientists and social reformers to trailblazing engineers and world-renowned artists and authors - Scotland has produced a plethora of formidable women.