Travel News Page 419
Niyama Private Islands Maldives Unveils THIS IS NIYAMA
Niyama Private Islands Maldives is proud to reveal its THIS IS NIYAMA transformation with fully refurbished villas and facilities, heightened levels of luxury, new experiences that immerse guests in all the beauty of the Maldives, and a newfound sense of freedom - an invitation for guests to live life on their own terms, unscripted and unbound. Since its unveiling in 2012, Niyama has made its mark on the Maldives with its bold playfulness. Now, it ups the ante, as effortless luxury is draped with the avant-garde, the surreal, the one-of-a-kind.
Accor Launches the HERA Challenge
Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, is inviting travel professionals to join the HERA Challenge, recognizing the performance and expertise of the world’s top travel advisors. Open to HERA members – Accor’s global loyalty and rewards program for travel advisors – the Challenge will see 33 top advisors flown to Colombia to stay at the luxurious Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena and the Sofitel Barú Calablanca Beach Resort.
A Summer of Culinary Delights at Four Seasons Hotel Megève
From reinvented French classics at Brasserie Benjamin to the vibrant Nikkei creations of Kaito, and the floral pastries by Jonathan Chapuy to take away, the season promises a celebration of taste in every bite. Timeless French Favourites at Brasserie Benjamin At Four Seasons Hotel Megève, Brasserie Benjamin captures the essence of a grand Parisian brasserie while embracing the freshness and authenticity of the Alps. Under the direction of Executive Chef Armando Acquaviva, formerly an executive chef with Anne-Sophie Pic, and Pastry Chef Jonathan Chapuy, the menu celebrates French culinary heritage through a seasonal lens, where classic techniques meet local inspiration. Each dish tells a story: from duck foie gras subtly infused with mountain herbs to a delicate tarte tatin of heirloom tomatoes, reimagined with elegance and restraint.
Nemacolin Joins Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ Legend Collection
Nemacolin, the year-round resort playground nestled on more than 2,200 acres of southwestern Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, has been accepted into membership of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ prestigious Legend Collection. The ultimate portfolio of exceptional properties in the world’s most remarkable destinations, the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legend Collection is globally sophisticated, culturally-refined, and promises unforgettable guest experiences. Featuring exquisite accommodations, stellar and intuitive personal service, renowned dining, and exceptional spas, being part of this exclusive group is designated for distinguished properties who represent the very highest levels of luxury.
Garner by IHG gains momentum in India with third signing this year
IHG®Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a franchise agreement for Garner Kutch in Gujarat, marking the brand’s third signing in India within months of its IMEA launch. Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2026, the hotel reinforces IHG’s strategy to expand its portfolio in emerging secondary and tertiary markets, where demand for high-quality, world-class accommodations is rapidly increasing.
Waldorf Astoria Osaka Harmonizes Timeless Art Deco Grandeur with Contemporary Japanese Elegance
Waldorf Astoria Osaka, the first Waldorf Astoria in Japan, marks a new benchmark in hospitality-driven architecture in one of Asia’s most captivating cities. Throughout its history, Waldorf Astoria has redefined the skyline of the world’s greatest cities – from the legendary flagship in New York to its landmark properties across the globe. Designed by internationally acclaimed architect André Fu, Waldorf Astoria Osaka further evolves the architectural legacy once more, blending the brand’s timeless design philosophy with the spirit of modern Japan.
Singapore Airlines Raises $3 Million For Singapore-Based Charities
The Singapore Airlines (SIA) SG60 SIA Cares 2025 fundraising campaign targeted and has raised $3 million, benefitting more than 1,600 children and youth with disabilities and developmental needs across Singapore. During the three-month-long campaign, SIA rallied its corporate partners, members of the public, and staff, who collectively donated $1.5 million. The Airline matched this amount dollar-for-dollar, doubling the total to $3 million. The total amount will go to Singapore-based social service agencies AWWA and Rainbow Centre, as well as over 200 programmes supported by Community Chest.
The Envoy Hotel Abuja has just been crowned Nigeria’s Leading Boutique Hotel
The Envoy Hotel Abuja has just been crowned Nigeria’s Leading Boutique Hotel at the 2025 African & Indian Ocean ceremony of the World Travel Awards. This accolade marks yet another chapter of excellence for the hotel, confirming its status as a must-visit destination
ATM outlines why luxury hospitality leaders view personalisation as key to revenue growth
Personalisation is emerging as a growing trend in travel and tourism, particularly within the luxury segment, as travellers increasingly seek experiences tailored to their individual preferences and lifestyles. At Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, senior executives from leading hotel groups, including Minor Hotels, Fairmont and Marriott, examined the rising influence of ‘hyper-personalisation’, which moves away from one-size-fits-all services to offering bespoke guest experiences. Leveraging tools such as AI-driven customisation and chatbots, as well as personalised welcome amenities and bespoke dining options, these brands are redefining the customer journey in the luxury travel segment, which is witnessing a continued surge worldwide.
Emirates Group launches massive talent drive
The Emirates Group has kickstarted a global talent scouting and acquisition drive, revving up this phase of its phenomenal growth. This financial year, the aviation powerhouse is looking to onboard 17,300 people, equivalent to a mid-size town or the seating capacity of 58 Airbus A350 aircraft, across 350 roles. These roles span every facet, function and operations across Emirates, the world’s most profitable and largest international airline, and dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider. Hundreds of new recruits are required across some roles, including cabin crew, pilots, engineers, commercial and sales teams, customer service, ground handling, catering, IT, HR and finance. dnata is looking to hire more than 4,000 cargo, catering and ground handling specialists.
Germany’s Travel & Tourism Sector to Break All-Time Records in 2025
Germany is set to make Travel & Tourism history in 2025, with every major performance indicator set to reach new heights, according to new data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). International visitor spending is forecast to hit an unprecedented €57BN this year, marking the highest inbound spend ever recorded in Germany.
DerbySoft Launches AI Voice Agent
DerbySoft, a global leader in travel technology, today announced the launch of AI Voice Agent, a breakthrough solution automating high-volume, repetitive outbound calls to properties, transforming how travel companies operate. In the business travel sector, where 30% or more of global accommodation bookings require manual phone or email intervention, call automation marks a critical step forward in streamlining processes and reducing friction.