Travel News Page 475
QANTAS BOOSTS TASMAN FLYING FOR CUSTOMERS OVER SUMMER HOLIDAY SEASON
Qantas is announcing more flights for customers between Australia and New Zealand, with the airline boosting its capacity across the Tasman by up to 20 per cent throughout December 2025 and January 2026*. The additional flights provide more options and greater choice for customers travelling between the two countries during the peak summer holiday period, with around 60,000 additional seats compared to the same time last year.
Thailand Launches Amazing Thailand Love Wins Festival to Mark Pride Month
The Royal Thai Government launched the “Amazing Thailand Love Wins Festival (Pride Month)”, a nationwide celebration taking place throughout June in honour of global Pride Month. The campaign reinforces Thailand’s image as an inclusive and welcoming travel destination. Presiding over the official launch, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, stated: “This festival is more than a celebration—it is a reflection of our national values. Thailand stands proudly for human rights, gender equality, and the freedom to love. With marriage equality now the law of the land, we reaffirm our commitment to inclusion and send a clear message to the world: everyone is welcome here.”
Marriott International Celebrates 50 Years as A Hospitality Leader in Europe, Middle East & Africa
Marriott International, Inc. today celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel, the company’s first hotel in Europe and outside of North America. From a single Marriott Hotel in 1975, the company has grown tremendously in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region over the past 50 years. Today, Marriott has over 1,300 properties, 29 distinct brands, and a presence in 80 countries and territories across the region.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi and Ginori 1735
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi has unveiled the innovative Café Ginori concept bringing Ginori 1735’s artistic craftmanship and playfulness to the resort’s culinary experience. In collaboration with the renowned Italian porcelain brand Ginori 1735, the first café of its kind to open in the Middle East, marks the next chapter in the global partnership that brings bold and unexpected dining experiences to select St. Regis properties around the world.
Trip.com Unveils $100M Fund and Global Green Vision at Envision 2025
Leading global travel services provider Trip.com Group revealed its bold roadmap for the future of travel at the Envision 2025 Global Partner Conference, held in Shanghai. Gathering over 3,000 travel leaders and partners from all over the world, the conference showcased the company’s strategy to reshape global tourism through innovation and sustainable growth.
Premier Inn launches Weekly Summer Deals with rooms from AED 99
This summer, Premier Inn Middle East is turning up the heat on savings with the launch of its Weekly Summer Deals, offering guests 30 per cent off stays every Wednesday and Thursday at selected hotels across the UAE and Qatar. Rooms start from just AED 99, giving travellers the perfect excuse for a spontaneous staycation, last-minute EID escape, or city adventure.
Etihad Guest Offers 5 Million Miles in a Race to Discover Etihad’s Newest Destinations
Etihad has launched a first of its kind competition inviting new and existing Etihad Guest members to win up to five million miles by flying to each of the airline’s 15 new year-round destinations launching in 2025. Mark Potter, Managing Director Etihad Guest, said, “This challenge embodies Etihad’s purpose to give flight to ambition. We’re inviting our adventurous members and travellers to explore 15 incredible destinations while competing for our largest-ever miles prize.”
Omni Hotels & Resorts Celebrates Women’s Golf Day® Across its 12 Golf Resorts
Omni Hotels & Resorts – the official hotel partner of the PGA TOUR – is proud to celebrate Women’s Golf Day® with a weeklong series of activations at all 12 of its premier golf resort destinations. From May 27 to June 3, Omni properties across the U.S. will host engaging and fun events designed to support and inspire women and girls through the game of golf, while additionally fostering a sense of belonging and community both on and off the course.
Make Incredible Memories with Two New Stage Shows and a Nighttime Parade
This summer, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida dazzles with even more magical experiences for the whole family with the debut of Cool Kid Summer —a limited-time celebration packed with new, whimsical entertainment and unforgettable fun for kids and the kid at heart. From May 27 to Sept. 1, 2025, families can immerse themselves in exciting shows, interactive games, and enchanting surprises throughout the four theme parks and select resort hotels.
easyJet and easyJet holidays continue UK growth with new base at Newcastle Airport
easyJet has announced further UK growth with plans to open a three-aircraft base at Newcastle Airport in March 2026, creating around 130 direct jobs for pilots, crew and engineers and supporting around 1200* UK jobs in total. The base opening will enable easyJet to expand its network from Newcastle and serve an extensive catchment area across the North of England and Southern Scotland, helping to support vital UK connectivity outside of London.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Reveals New Details of Luminara
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection announces new details of Luminara, its highly anticipated third ultra-luxury superyacht, leading up to its maiden voyage from Monte Carlo to Rome on July 3, 2025. Following successful sea trials, Luminara has demonstrated operational excellence and superior comfort, marking a significant milestone ahead of its inaugural season. The yacht will introduce destinations in Asia and Alaska, firsts for the brand, expanding its itineraries to offer guests an unparalleled range of immersive travel experiences.
Aer Lingus Unveils Direct Flights from Dublin to Cancún!
Aer Lingus has announced the launch of its first direct flight to Cancún, Mexico, commencing from January 2026. The new route from Dublin to Cancún will operate 3 times weekly on the airline’s A330-300 aircraft, offering Irish holidaymakers a seamless route to the warmth and vibrant cultural heritage of the Mexican Caribbean. This new direct service, operating from 6 January to 29 April 2026, provides an effortless option for those looking to escape the cold Irish winter months, while avoiding the hassle of long stopovers.