Travel News Page 412
Dubai International Airport Soars to New Heights with Record-Breaking Success in 2025
Dubai International Airport (DXB), already a global aviation powerhouse, has once again solidified its place at the top by breaking multiple records in passenger traffic, cargo handling, and international connectivity in the first half of 2025.
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Debuts in Japan With the Grand Opening of Fairmont Tokyo
A captivating urban oasis with breathtaking views of glittering Tokyo Tower and serene Tokyo Bay Opened on 1st July 2025. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of the world-leading hospitality group Accor, is delighted to announce its debut in Japan with the opening of Fairmont Tokyo. The milestone was marked by a ribbon-tying ceremony held on July 1, 2025, celebrating a history-making moment as the brand enters the Japanese market for the very first time.
Marking Its First Anniversary, Four Seasons Hotel Osaka
Rolling out the red carpet for its one-year anniversary, Four Seasons Hotel Osaka takes guests on a thrilling journey of discovery and rediscovery. With the Hotel providing a luxurious base in Osaka’s storied heart, each stay offers the chance to uncover something new in the city. Whether discovering Osaka for the first time or returning with fond memories, every guest is invited to explore the city’s rich layers of tradition and modernity. There is so much to experience in this vibrant destination — and with Four Seasons experts guiding the way, extraordinary moments and memories are a given.
Hyatt Announces Plans for Hyatt Centric Anjuna Goa
Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced plans for Hyatt Centric Anjuna Goa, which will be a significant addition to Hyatt’s Classics Portfolio in one of India’s most vibrant leisure destinations. Slated to open in 2027, the property is currently under construction and will be managed by Nile Hospitality. Located in the heart of Anjuna, North Goa—a destination renowned for its eclectic mix of beach culture, nightlife, and heritage appeal—the hotel is strategically positioned to cater to both business and leisure travelers and small groups seeking immersive experiences.
IHG Hotels & Resorts strengthens presence in South of India
IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a franchise agreement with KGA International Trades Private Limited for the development of Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery, Kerela, India. Slated to open in the first quarter of 2027, the signing strengthens IHG’s commitment to expanding its presence across high-potential secondary markets in India through strategic partnerships with trusted partners.
MSC CRUISES UNVEILS NEW ENTERTAINMENT VENUES ON MSC WORLD ASIA
MSC Cruises is taking onboard entertainment to the next level on its up-coming new flagship, MSC World Asia. Setting sail in the Mediterranean in December 2026, guests will have no shortage of entertainment venues to choose from, as the cruise line reveals some of the exciting experiences on offer.
Austrian Airlines and Miles & More enter into new partnership with “Erste Bank und Sparkasse”
Austrian Airlines, Austria’s largest airline and part of the Lufthansa Group, and Miles & More, the Lufthansa Group’s loyalty programme, are launching a change to their credit card portfolio in Austria. “Erste Bank und Sparkasse”, one of the largest banking groups in Austria, won the tender. At the beginning of 2026, Austrian Miles & More credit cards will be issued in combination with George, the multi-award-winning internet banking platform. Mastercard will remain on board as the payment service provider.
Passenger Surge Expected at Shannon Airport with 10% Growth Forecast for August Bank Holiday Period
Shannon Airport is preparing for a bustling August Bank Holiday, with almost 60,000 passengers expected to travel through the airport over the period, marking a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This continued growth reflects Shannon Airport’s strong performance in 2025, with over 1.04 million passengers recorded in the first half of the year – a 7% year-on-year increase.
TUI River Cruises reveals new venues onboard TUI Bahareya
TUI River Cruises unveils its new venues onboard the fully refurbished Arabic inspired décor ship, TUI Bahareya, which is due to set sail on its maiden voyage this November on the River Nile. The TUI Bahareya will be equipped with 74 cabins accommodating 146 guests per sailing and it has been designed with flexibility and choice in mind to cater for all customer’s needs. The ship’s new venues onboard bring together the cultural immersion from the destinations it sails through and modern Arabic inspired décor, with each venue having a flare of Egypt.
American Airlines expands Premium Economy service to New York-Los Angeles route
For travelers looking for extra comfort when traveling between New York and Los Angeles, American Airlines will begin offering Premium Economy service on the transcontinental route in October. “We are excited to provide customers the opportunity to experience our Premium Economy service on our premier domestic route,” said Heather Garboden, American’s Chief Customer Officer. “With the domestic debut of Premium Economy, customers will enjoy a more comfortable seat, enhanced amenities and elevated dining with hot entree choices when traveling coast-to-coast.”
Lufthansa, Fraport, and zeroG drive innovation at Frankfurt Airport
Lufthansa and Fraport AG have signed an agreement to further optimize aircraft handling at Frankfurt Airport. Together with Lufthansa subsidiary zeroG, the partners are introducing the innovative AI-based camera solution “seer”. The goal is to use real-time data to make the turnaround process– i.e., the procedures involved in aircraft handling – more transparent, punctual, and efficient.
TUI acquires 20 per cent stake in Bentour Reisen
The antitrust authorities have approved the acquisition of 20 per cent of Bentour Reisen AG by the TUI Group and the takeover of 20 per cent of TUI subsidiary Nazar Nordic by Bentour. The transaction is therefore now effective. David Schelp, CEO Markets & Airline TUI Group, comments: ‘The all-inclusive market is developing very well. It offers customers a great deal of security. Demand is encouraging, especially in holiday destinations such as Türkiye and Greece. As a subsidiary of TUI Nordic, Nazar is well positioned in the Nordic markets and has great potential for further growth. Bentour is an excellent company with whom we want to shape our growth. Customer focus and quality standards are values that both companies share.’