Travel News Page 193
Cholan Tours Breaks Industry Barriers with India’s First Women Chauffeur-Driven Tours
One of the most reputable destination management companies in India, Cholan Tours, has announced a pioneering industry initiative, the introduction of professionally trained women chauffeurs to operate multi-day and long-distance tours across India, a first-of-its-kind concept in the Indian tourism sector.
Robert Downey Jr. Named Godparent of Disney Adventure
Today, Disney announced Academy Award-winning actor Robert Downey Jr. will be the godparent for the Disney Adventure, the newest and largest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Disney shared the news ahead of the vessel’s maiden voyage next month out of its home port in Singapore.
Guillaume Ranvier, the New General Manager of Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, the Connoisseurs’ Hotel
A seasoned professional in the world of luxury hospitality, Guillaume Ranvier has joined Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo as General Manager. He officially took up his position on January 5, 2026, succeeding Louis Starck, who was appointed General Manager of Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo at the end of last September. With an impressive international career in prestigious hotel establishments, Guillaume Ranvier will now bring his expertise and ultra-luxury experience to one of Monaco’s most iconic hotels. Arriving directly from the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris, where he served as Hotel Manager,
Indigenous Women Leading Australia’s Cultural Tourism Transformation
Ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, Discover Aboriginal Experiences celebrates the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women who lead, teach and nurture culture across Australia – guiding visitors not only through landscapes, but through knowledge systems sustained for more than 65,000 years.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Reveals an Exclusive New Collection of Enticing Land Programs
Regent Seven Seas Cruises®, the world’s leading ultra-luxury cruise line, has unveiled a new collection of nearly 50 multi-day land programs available pre- and post- sailing in iconic destinations across the globe, including Africa & Arabia, Alaska, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, the Mediterranean & Northern Europe, and North America. Featured on sailings departing in 2026 and beyond, the new collection of immersive pre‑ and post‑land programs spans six of the seven ultra‑luxury ships in The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet®. These curated shoreside experiences cater to the growing desire of combining cruise and land holidays, giving guests the freedom to explore home ports at an unhurried pace and spend more meaningful time immersed in each destination before or after their voyage.
Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo Unveils Sakura Season in Nihonbashi — Where Cherry Blossoms Bloom
As cherry blossoms begin to bloom across the city, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo offers a rare Sakura experience set quite literally at its doorstep. Located just steps from one of Nihonbashi’s most celebrated Sakura-lined avenues, the hotel is surrounded by softly arching cherry trees that transform the neighborhood into a living spring tableau, allowing guests to experience Tokyo’s most poetic season within easy reach of the hotel.
Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa Debuts in the Foothills of the Himalayas
Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa. Set along the tranquil Nun River, framed by the foothills of the Himalayas, the resort marks the brand’s arrival in Dehradun, an emerging leisure hub and key gateway to some of North India’s most sought-after hill destinations, including Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.
MANDARIN ORIENTAL APPOINTS SIMONE BILES AS THE BRANDS FIRST GLOBAL WELLNESS AMBASSADOR
Mandarin Oriental is proud to announce that Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all time and one of the defining athletes of her generation, has joined the brand as its first-ever Global Wellness Ambassador. The long-term, purpose-driven collaboration represents a strategic step in positioning Mandarin Oriental as a global authority in modern, holistic wellbeing. It reflects the Group’s belief that true wellness is the integration of physical strength, mental health, recovery and balance, a philosophy that Biles embodies with authenticity and grace.
La Pirogue: 50 Years of History and Emotion in 2026
Inaugurated on June 7, 1976, La Pirogue celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. 50 years of history. 50 years of breathtaking sunsets. 50 years of memories shared across generations of travellers. A true icon of the west coast and of Mauritius itself, La Pirogue pays vibrant tribute to its heritage, its teams, its loyal guests, and the living culture that has shaped its soul for half a century.
Etihad Airways Senior Appointment
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, today announced the appointment of Captain Khalid Humaid Al Ali as Senior Vice President Aeropolitical, International and Government Affairs.
The Peninsula Hong Kong Invites Betrothed Couples To Its Opulent Wedding Showcase
For nearly a century, The Peninsula Hong Kong has served as a spectacular setting for romantic celebrations. From intimate marriage proposals and candlelit dinners to lavish anniversary banquets and wedding receptions, the iconic hotel overlooking Victoria Harbour has played gracious host – offering couples both peerlessly elegant environs and superbly attentive services to commemorate their love.
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok Presents In Good Company
Set along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River presents In Good Company — a one-day riverside breakfast‑brunch designed to bring people together for an easy, unhurried morning. Along the hotel’s Riverfront Promenade, long tables stretch beside the water, inviting guests to settle in, share the morning, and enjoy the gentle rhythms of the Chao Phraya accompanied by a live DJ.