Travel News Page 437
Baja California Sur launches EMBRACE IT: an initiative to support sustainable tourism
The Government of the State of Baja California Sur will officially implement the EMBRACE IT tax on foreign visitors who stay in the state for more than 24 hours. This measure aims to generate funds to strengthen natural environmental conservation, community development, and local tourism infrastructure.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa Opens with Legendary Guitar Smash and Star-Studded Celebration
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa officially opened its doors today with a signature guitar smash, marking the arrival of Canada’s first fully integrated Hard Rock resort, a bold new destination where entertainment, hospitality, and music take center stage. The $350 million resort brings the brand’s unmistakable energy to Canada’s capital, offering locals and visitors an immersive Hard Rock experience blending iconic music history with world-class entertainment, hospitality, dining, and gaming.
Holland America Line Marks America’s 250th Anniversary in 2026 with Cruise to Historical U.S. Ports
In honor of America’s 250th birthday in 2026, Holland America Line is sailing a landmark cruise roundtrip from Boston — the epicenter of the American Revolution. The seven-day “America’s 250th Celebration: Stars & Stripes Voyage” aboard Zuiderdam departs July 4, 2026, and includes a visit to Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, an overnight visit to New York City, as well as a special call at Norfolk, Virginia, with access to Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown.
ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES ANNOUNCES NEW CANADIAN ARCTIC EXPEDITION ABOARD WORLD VOYAGER
Atlas Ocean Voyages launches a brand-new polar expedition for 2026: the Canadian Arctic Discovery 17-night expedition aboard World Voyager, sailing September 21 from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland to St. John’s, Newfoundland. This once-in-a-lifetime journey offers explorers a rare opportunity to traverse the remote regions of the Canadian Arctic and Labrador, highlighting the untamed wilderness, rich cultural diversity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Head to Hollywood for just £473 return with TAP Air Portuga
TAP Air Portugal is offering an incredible promotion to Los Angeles until July 9, with prices starting from €549 euros (£473), including taxes, for round-trips to California. This promotion – valid for flights between August 18, 2025 and March 30, 2026 – offers a unique opportunity to visit the Californian city, which is home to some of the world’s biggest movie stars.
Hrunalaug Hot Springs: Key Highlights and Experiences
Iceland is very small, yet it hosts so many amazing spots. Some of them cannot be witnessed anywhere else in the world. Iceland is very rich in natural wonders, which locals treat as customary parts of their lives. Enjoying the hot springs, for instance, has become a part of many people’s daily routine in Iceland.
Dusit brings vibrant energy to the Maldives with a new all-inclusive resort near Malé
Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, is set to mark a major milestone with the opening of dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives — the group’s first all-inclusive lifestyle resort and its second Dusit-branded property in the country, complementing the luxury Dusit Thani Maldives.
The Emirates A350 begins regular operations to Muscat
Emirates’ highly anticipated Airbus A350 is now a regular sight at Muscat International Airport, with the start of regular daily services between Dubai and Muscat. The deployment of the next-generation aircraft, originally slated for 1 July, was brought forward by a week. The aircraft operates flight EK 866, which departs Dubai at 2:15 am and arrives in Muscat at 3:30 am. The return leg, EK 867 departs Muscat at 4:40 am and lands in Dubai at 5:55 am, perfectly timed to help customers connect for their flights to destinations in Europe, Americas, Africa and Asia. *
Hilton and M&L Group Announce First Waldorf Astoria Hotel in The Nordics
Hilton has announced the signing of a management agreement with M&L Group for The Hotel Maria in Helsinki, which will be re-branded as Waldorf Astoria Helsinki. This marks the first hotel to operate under the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand in Finland, introducing the brand’s legendary service and award-winning hospitality to the Nordics.
Introducing Huntermoss
Pioneers of ultra-luxury experiential travel, Ultimate Driving Tours, has officially rebranded as HunterMoss, marking a new chapter in the company’s 18-year evolution. The powerful new rebrand aligns with a hugely significant expansion as it prepares to launch into its most dynamic market yet: the United States.
Waldorf Astoria Sets the Stage for Unforgettable Luxury in Bali
Hilton have announced the signing of Waldorf Astoria Bali with Indonesian property developer PT Balibuana Perkasa, further expanding Hilton’s presence in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
Hilton to Open Tenth Curio Collection by Hilton in the UK with New Signing in London’s Square Mile
Hilton has announced the signing of The Derby London City, Curio Collection by Hilton, as part of a franchise agreement with leading real estate developer and operator, Dominus.