Tourism News Page 72
Rio Takes Centre Stage as Global Aviation Leaders Gather for IATA AGM 2026
Rio de Janeiro this week welcomes the global aviation industry as host city for the 82nd International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit, bringing together airline chief executives, government ministers, regulators and industry leaders from around the world. Hosted by LATAM Airlines Group, the event comes at a pivotal moment for aviation. The industry is navigating geopolitical uncertainty, rising fuel costs, supply chain constraints, sustainability challenges and the accelerating impact of artificial intelligence, while continuing to respond to record levels of passenger demand.
Creator-Led Tourism Comes of Age
For decades, destination marketing was built around television campaigns, print advertising and carefully crafted promotional films. Today, a new generation of travellers is discovering the world through creators. The recent IShowSpeed Caribbean Tour may prove to be one of the most important tourism marketing case studies of the year.
From Havana to Rio: How IATA Helped Build the Modern Aviation Industry
As aviation leaders gather in Rio de Janeiro for the 82nd IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS), they return to a city that occupies a unique place in the history of global aviation. Rio was where, in 1999, IATA formally introduced the World Air Transport Summit, recognising that its annual gathering had evolved into something much larger than a trade association meeting. Aviation had become one of the defining industries of globalization, carrying more than 1.5 billion passengers annually and generating over $300 billion in revenues. The AGM had become the forum where airline leaders, governments, manufacturers, airports and regulators debated the future of an increasingly interconnected world.
NEW RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS GROWING DEMAND FOR ‘OFF-GRID’ TRAVEL
New research from Tourism Tasmania reveals a notable shift in British traveller behaviour, with digital fatigue and “always-on” culture increasingly influencing how consumers define and value their holidays. The study, conducted by 3Gem Media Group among 2,000 UK holidaymakers, suggests that traditional holidays are increasingly failing to deliver a true sense of escape, as work, social media and online expectations continue to follow travellers while abroad. As a result, tech-free disconnection is emerging as a key driver of destination and accommodation choice, with implications for travel product development, positioning and pricing.
Happy World Environment Day!
World Environment Day will be observed on June 5 under the theme “Inspired by Nature: For Climate. For Our Future.” The campaign emphasizes the vital connection between healthy ecosystems, climate resilience and sustainable development.
New BTMI Chairman Peter Harris pledges to make Barbados ‘a Standard’
Businessman Peter Harris expressed humility and gratitude after his appointment as chairman of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), succeeding Shelly Williams. Harris said he looks forward to building on her foundation while working closely with Tourism and International Transport Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill and the BTMI team.
Caribbean Week in New York begins today
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) kicks off Caribbean Week in New York 2026 today, perfectly aligned with the start of Caribbean-American Heritage Month. Under the theme “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” this annual event brings together Caribbean tourism leaders, ministers and directors, marketing teams, and industry partners for a week of high-level dialogue, networking, innovation and celebration in the heart of New York City.
THE BALMORAL LAUNCHES BESPOKE HERITAGE EXPERIENCE
The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte Hotel, invites suite guests to make it official with Scotland in a new experience, Be a Scot for the Day, a bespoke journey into Scotland’s culture, ancestry and traditions, culminating in a ceremonial moment recognising guests as an official Scot for the day. Designed for all who feel a connection to Scotland, whether through heritage, curiosity or a love of its rich culture, this immersive experience offers a meaningful introduction to the country’s enduring traditions.
ALMA FESTIVAL UNVEILS ITS FIFTH EDITION IN THE BREATHTAKING LANDSCAPES OF SICILY
From 17 to 20 September 2026, Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte hotel, will host ALMA by ANÍMA marking a new chapter for the wellness festival as it celebrates its fifth edition in Sicily. The annual immersive gathering brings together wellbeing, culture, longevity, and human connection in a setting deeply rooted in Mediterranean living. Surrounded by nature and the expansive beauty of the resort, guests are invited to slow down, reconnect and experience a more intentional rhythm of life.
Mandarin Oriental Mayfair & Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Serve Up A Summer Of Sport
Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London and Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London present Summer of Sport – a curated collection of exclusive packages celebrating two of the world’s most iconic sporting events: The Championships Wimbledon and the Formula 1 Pirelli British Grand Prix 2026.
The Emirates A380 dons its Gunners kit
Emirates has revealed a celebratory A380 livery dedicated to Arsenal FC, following the club’s triumphant Premier League winning season. Unveiled as part of the airline’s longstanding partnership with Arsenal, the bespoke livery reflects Emirates’ continued commitment to connecting fans with the world’s biggest sporting moments.
Jumeirah Capri Palace Reopens a-Ma-Re Capri with a New Collaboration with Pizzaingrammi
Jumeirah Capri Palace reopens a-Ma-Re Capri with an evolved pizza offering in collaboration with Pizzaingrammi - the renowned pizza concept with locations in Pozzuoli, Pomigliano, Quarto and Naples. Introducing a new culinary direction for the seaside restaurant, the collaboration brings a contemporary interpretation of one of Italy’s favoured gastronomic traditions.