Travel News Page 319
Rotana Expands Its Middle East Portfolio with the signing of Rotana Jabal Omar Makkah
Rotana, one of the leading hotel management companies in the region, has announced the signing of Rotana Jabal Omar - Makkah, during the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Dubai 2025, further cementing its position as a trusted partner in shaping the Middle East’s evolving hospitality landscape. The signing marks a major step in Rotana’s regional expansion strategy, strengthening its presence in Saudi Arabia and addressing the growing demand for world-class hospitality experiences. With more than 79 operating properties across 29 cities and 14 countries, Rotana continues to deliver on its vision of offering exceptional guest experiences while contributing to national tourism and economic growth.
Belfast Should Be Top of Your Winter Wishlist With Christmas Markets, Titanic Tales & Stylish Stays
Belfast is set to sparkle this festive season, offering the perfect blend of festive charm, heritage and hospitality. From twinkling lights to the scent of cinnamon in the air, the city is set to transform into a winter wonderland. At its heart sits the Belfast Christmas Market starting from November 15th and running until December 22nd, returning to the grounds of City Hall with over 100 local and international traders. Visitors can sip mulled wine, browse artisan crafts and soak up the lively atmosphere against the magnificent backdrop of the Belfast City Hall.
From City Escapes to Countryside Charm: Steam Dreams Rail Co. unveils its 2026 Day Trip Collection
Steam Dreams Rail Co., provider of nostalgic and unforgettable steam train journeys, has today announced its schedule of captivating 2026 day trips to some of the UK’s most beloved destinations. Travelling through picturesque countryside and historic towns, guests can enjoy day trips to charming towns and cities such as Bath, Cambridge, Ely, Oxford, and Bicester Village, as well as coastal escapes to Paignton and Kingswear. Each journey combines the beauty of steam travel with the opportunity to explore iconic landmarks, vibrant market towns, and stunning seaside scenery, creating experiences steeped in history, heritage, and discovery.
Verbier Kicks Off Ski Season Four Weeks Early
Téléverbier and Verbier Tourism are pleased to announce the opening of several slopes. For the past few days, the peaks of Verbier have been adorned with a magnificent white blanket, with over 40 cm of fresh snow at Lac des Vaux. The 2025/2026 winter season can therefore officially begin in ideal conditions. Starting this Saturday, 1 November, the Lac des Vaux sector will be open, allowing skiers to make their first turns of the season. The opening of the Attelas–Ruinettes sector is subject to favourable conditions. Throughout November, the ski area will be open only on weekends, before daily openings begin on 29 November 2025.
100 Days to Go - Milano Cortina Winter Games 2026
There is only 100 days till the start of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games - the culmination of this coming winter sport season. But the Olympics are more than just sport - they are about cultures coming together, the Olympic spirit, the cultural Olympiad, and about the host city welcoming athletes, spectators, and of course visitors. Milan is excited and to celebrate the milestone ahead of the games: “Today marks 100 days to go before the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, and the city is already alive with Olympic spirit. Milano’s skyline is transforming, its neighbourhoods are vibrant with creativity, and its people share one mission: to welcome the world with the elegance, energy, and innovation that define Italy’s most international city.
Net positive pioneers honoured at World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025 in Dubai
The global leaders of sustainable tourism convened in Dubai for a ceremony to recognise the individuals and organisations that are accelerating change in net positive tourism. The 2nd annual World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards proved a fitting showcase for Terra, Expo City Dubai and its pioneering sustainability initiatives. The VIP reception, held on 29 October, unveiled the 30 winners of this year’s programme. Recipients of the coveted titles reflected the length and breadth of the sustainable tourism sector, ranging from community artisan initiatives to global hospitality giants.
Sabre and All Nippon Airways mark milestone with the launch of global NDC content
Sabre Corporation, a leading global travel technology company, and All Nippon Airways have reached a landmark moment together with the global launch of New Distribution Capability (NDC) content through SabreMosaic™ Travel Marketplace. With this collaboration, All Nippon Airways becomes the first carrier in Japan to activate NDC content.
Spotlight falls on Terra, Expo City Dubai ahead of World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards
The global leaders of sustainable tourism are gathering in Dubai ahead of the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025. The VIP ceremony at Terra, Expo City Dubai will recognise the individuals and organisations that are accelerating change in net positive tourism.
Private Bus Operators vs State Transport: Key Differences to Know
India moves on buses. Whether you are planning a work trip, visiting family, or heading out for a weekend break, you will compare private bus operators with state transport undertakings. This guide explains the differences so you can book with confidence and clarity while recognising the public value delivered by state services.
Radiohead’s European Tour to Drive Over €12 Million in Tourism Spending
As Radiohead prepares to embark on its highly anticipated 2025 European Tour, Mabrian and The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group unveil new insights into the expected tourism economic impact surrounding the British band’s concerts. The analysis reveals how large-scale music events can reshape local spending patterns and generate meaningful opportunities for destinations across Europe.
Ah Amália – Living Experience Crowned Europe’s Leading New Tourist Attraction
Portugal has long been a land of poetry, passion, and saudade — that untranslatable mix of longing and love that defines its soul. Now, a new destination is capturing that spirit in the most extraordinary way. Ah Amália – Living Experience, a tribute to Portugal’s most iconic fado singer, has been named Europe’s Leading New Tourist Attraction 2025 at the prestigious World Travel Awards European Gala Ceremony, recently held in Sardinia.
Hilton Surpasses 100 Hotels in Saudi Arabia, with a Growing Pipeline
Hilton has announced it has surpassed the milestone of 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline in Saudi Arabia – representing a combined investment of USD $8 billion from hotel owners and investors into Hilton’s growing portfolio, and underscoring the company’s long-term commitment to supporting Vision 2030 by expanding its footprint and delivering world-class hospitality throughout the Kingdom. The announcement was made ahead of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Saudi Arabia, a global forum that convenes world leaders, policymakers, and investors to discuss the future of global investment and economic trends.