Travel News Page 168
Quito Airport leads South America as Best Regional Airport
Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport has been recognized as the Best Regional Airport in South America, consolidating its leadership in the region and strengthening its position as a benchmark for airport quality. This recognition marks a milestone: 11 consecutive years in which Ecuador’s capital airport has remained the highest-rated among airports in its category, in a highly competitive environment.
Virgin Voyages unveils upcoming winter 2027 - 2028 programmes
Following the recent itinerary release for Virgin Voyages’ flagship vessel, Scarlet Lady, Virgin Voyages is unveiling its winter 2027/2028 kid-free sailings, operating on Brilliant Lady, Resilient Lady and Valiant Lady. Running from late 2027 to spring 2028, destinations include: * Caribbean * Mexican Riviera * Pacific Coastal * Panama Canal
UNIWORLD REVEALS FIRST LOOK AT NEW SUPER SHIPS DEBUTING IN 2027
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has unveiled the first renderings of its newest Super Ships debuting in 2027, the S.S. Audrey and S.S. Marlene, inspired by screen icons, Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich, respectively. The sister ships will bring two distinct design visions to Europe’s rivers, drawing from the iconic aesthetics of the celebrated actresses while continuing Uniworld’s tradition of design-driven ships that reflect the regions they sail.
INTRODUCING OMEON MYKONOS, AN ALL NEW, DESIGN-LED COASTAL RETREAT LAUNCHING APRIL 30, 2026
A new chapter begins on the island of Mykonos. Opening 30 April 2026, Omeon Mykonos officially debuts as a reimagined five-star, adults-only (16+) retreat, following an extensive refresh, into a design-led sanctuary rooted in quiet luxury, emotional restoration and contemporary Cycladic living. The property is operated by SWOT Hospitality, the leading Greek hospitality management company behind a growing portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts across the Mediterranean.
Celebrate Eid Al Fitr with Culture and Tradition at Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan is set to celebrate Eid Al Fitr with a unique program that blends the UAE’s cultural heritage with a variety of entertainment experiences, making it an ideal destination for families and friends to come together and share meaningful moments. The Palace offers the perfect setting, combining warm hospitality with a welcoming atmosphere for family gatherings, all within a must-visit architectural landmark.
Sandals Resorts International Announces US$200 Million Reimagination of Three Iconic Jamaica Resorts
Sandals Resorts International (SRI) today announced a US$200 million investment to reimagine three of its iconic Jamaican resorts: Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean, and Sandals South Coast. Following Hurricane Melissa last fall, Sandals Resorts International reopened five of its eight Jamaica properties in December with Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean, and Sandals South Coast remaining closed for assessment. As restoration efforts have advanced on the three resorts, the company has identified an opportunity to undertake a more comprehensive transformation aligned with its Sandals 2.0 vision. As a result, Sandals South Coast will reopen on November 18, 2026, followed by both Sandals Royal Caribbean and Sandals Montego Bay on December 18, 2026.
HYATT HOUSE NAPLES/5TH AVENUE CELEBRATES 10 YEARS IN THE HEART OF NAPLES
Hyatt House Naples/5th Avenue is proud to celebrate its 10-year anniversary on March 17, marking a decade of welcoming guests, supporting the local community, and serving as a vibrant part of downtown Naples’ hospitality landscape.
Global Wellness Summit Announces Angsana Laguna Phuket as Venue for 20th Anniversary Summit
The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) announced that its 20th anniversary Summit will take place at Angsana Laguna Phuket in Thailand. The five-star beachside resort sits within the renowned Laguna Phuket integrated resort complex and offers a unique setting between tranquil lagoons and the white sands of Bang Tao Beach.
TUMI UNVEILS THE “MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPE” CELEBRATING THE ALLURE OF THE COAST AND THE EASE OF TRAVEL
International travel, lifestyle, and accessories brand TUMI introduces “Mediterranean Escape,” its Spring 2026 seasonal campaign and collection inspired by the warmth, rhythm, and sensorial richness of the Mediterranean coast. Bringing expressive new colors, prints, and textures across TUMI’s most iconic silhouettes, the campaign captures a joyful, transportive vision where design meets destination.
Celebrate Songkran at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
Perched high above the Gulf of Thailand, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui offers a carefree island escape shaped by the spirit of southern Thailand. Sweeping views of sea and sky, secluded hillside villas, and a rhythm guided by nature invite guests to slow down and reconnect with the essence of island life. As Thailand welcomes Songkran, the country’s traditional New Year, this sense of renewal takes on deeper meaning.
Air Travel Demand Will More Than Double by 2050
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its Long‑Term Demand Projections (LTDP) for air travel, showing that global air passenger demand is expected to more than double by 2050. Under the mid‑range scenario, demand is forecast to reach 20.8 trillion revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), based on a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% (2024-2050) from the 9 trillion RPKs seen in 2024. A higher growth scenario would see a 3.3% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 21.9 trillion RPKs in 2050. A lower growth scenario would see 2.9% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 19.5 trillion RPKs by 2050.
A MOMENT TO SLOW DOWN AT DELANO DUBAI
As the Eid long weekend approaches, Delano Dubai introduces a thoughtfully curated collection of stay and day experiences designed to offer space for rest, connection, and enjoyment by the sea. Set along the shores of Bluewaters, Delano Dubai presents a calm and welcoming option for those choosing to spend the holiday closer to home, whether it’s a short staycation, a wellness-led break, a gastronomy journey, or a fun-filled day by the pool and beach.