Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, proudly announces the opening of The Westin Nirup Island Resort & Spa, Batam, an oasis of well-being nestled on the breathtaking Nirup Island. Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Singapore’s Harbourfront Terminal or 40-minute away from Harbour Bay Batam, this wellness-focused sanctuary spans the entire private island, offering an immersive escape where guests can recharge and reconnect through transformative experiences. From nature walks to snorkeling, wellness workshops and more, guests can rejuvenate themselves amidst lush tropical landscapes and pristine coastal beauty.

St Pancras London will rebrand as part of Autograph Collection Hotels on 3rd June 2025, joining a global portfolio of over 300 independent hotels. The rebrand introduces a new guest experience shaped by time-honoured traditions — a series of rituals, storytelling moments and sensory details inspired by the hotel’s 150-year history. It will also see the iconic London hotel undergo an extensive refurbishment to its 245 rooms and suites spread across both Barlow House and the Chambers Suites.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “On behalf of the World Travel & Tourism Council, our Members and the global travel community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais on her historic nomination as the first woman Secretary-General of UN Tourism. Her appointment marks a significant milestone, reflecting the evolving leadership within our sector.” “Shaikha Al Nowais’s extensive experience in hospitality and her commitment to sustainability, digital equity, and inclusive governance align seamlessly with our shared vision for a resilient and forward-thinking tourism sector. We look forward to collaborating closely with her to drive this vision.”

Car rentals have become an essential part of the global travel experience. For both business travellers and holidaymakers, the ability to pick up a vehicle at the airport and hit the road offers freedom, flexibility and efficiency. However, beyond the convenience lies a growing and dynamic industry that plays a key role in tourism, local economies and modern mobility.

Sabre Corporation, a leading global travel technology company, announced a new agreement with SalamAir, Oman’s leading low-cost carrier. This collaboration will utilize Sabre’s marketplace to enhance SalamAir’s global visibility, expand its market reach, and drive revenue growth.

1 Hotels, the mission-driven luxury lifestyle brand founded by hospitality visionary Barry Sternlicht, is thrilled to announce that reservations are now open for 1 Hotel Copenhagen, a nature sanctuary set to open in August in the heart of Denmark’s capital. The property is a reimagining of the Skt. Petri, an iconic hotel in the historic Latin Quarter. 1 Hotels is transforming the space into a 282-room retreat that combines the brand’s trademark biophilic design with Scandinavian craftsmanship, integrating organic textures, reclaimed materials, and native greenery to create an urban oasis.