Travel News Page 541
Travel & Tourism to Create 4.5MN New Jobs across the EU by 2035, Says WTTC
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today reveals a bright future for the European Union’s Travel & Tourism sector, with strong growth predicted over the next decade. According to the global tourism body’s latest Economic Impact Research, by 2035, Travel & Tourism is expected to support an additional 4.5MN jobs, to reach more than 30MN, reinforcing its vital role in the EU’s economic and social landscape.
Global Travel & Tourism is Strong Despite Economic Headwinds
Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) latest research shows that global Travel & Tourism is projected to grow strongly this year, reaffirming its role as cornerstone to major world economies, as travellers are expected to spend more than ever before. According to WTTC’s 2025 Economic Impact Research (EIR), international visitor spending is forecast to reach an historic $2.1TN in 2025, surpassing the previous high of $1.9TN in 2019 by $164BN.
Anguilla Celebrates Record-Breaking Arrivals
Anguilla is celebrating a record-breaking surge in visitor arrivals. In December 2024, Anguilla welcomed 23,871 visitors, reflecting a 24.5% increase from the 19,178 arrivals recorded in December 2023. This figure represents the highest number of December arrivals since 1993.
Togetherness: Traveling to Reconnect
Togetherness: Traveling to Reconnect The most meaningful luxury today is the kind we share. In a world of constant notifications, crowded calendars and digital everything, travel has become something deeper: a way to reconnect—with ourselves, with others, and with nature. The trend known as Togetherness continues to grow among modern travelers who value meaningful experiences over material things. They’re not just visiting new places—they’re building memories with the people who matter most.
Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay Unveils Morocco’s First Medi-Spa
What sets this concept apart is the seamless fusion of a world-class luxury resort, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, with an exceptional and expansive holistic wellness sanctuary – all set against a beautiful and tranquil setting on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, where guests can really slow down and allow a deep regeneration of their bodies and souls, guided by a team of experts.
Minor Hotels Unveils Audio Walking Tour to Celebrate 750 Years of Amsterdam
To celebrate Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary, Minor Hotels is launching a unique city walking tour that takes visitors past the capital’s hidden gems. The ‘Minor Hotels Walking Tour - 750 Years of Amsterdam’ connects three of the group’s historic hotels, allowing guests to discover the city’s rich history through narrow alleys, hidden courtyards and centuries-old gable stones.
ARABIAN WARRIOR ALULA 2025 IS SET TO DEBUT THE ULTIMATE ENDURANCE CHALLENGE
AlUla Moments will host The Arabian Warrior AlUla 2025 from 8 to 10 May 2025, bringing together elite athletes, adventure seekers, and fitness enthusiasts for a two-day endurance event in AlUla. Set at the iconic Camel Cup Track Site located in Mughaira Heritage Sports Village, this obstacle course race will challenge participants’ strength, agility, and resilience across rugged terrain, reinforcing AlUla’s reputation as a global hub for adventure sports and extreme fitness competitions.
ANDBEYOND LAUNCHES AMAZON EXPLORER YACHT IN PERU
In yet another exciting addition to their South American portfolio, conservation-led luxury adventure company andBeyond has launched their latest project, a state-of-the-art river expedition yacht to be based in the Peruvian Amazon. Boasting the ultimate in modern design and technology, the andBeyond Amazon Explorer is currently under construction at the SIMA Shipyard in Iquitos, Peru, and is due to set sail on 29 September 2026.
Viking and Fincantieri Announce World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Cruise Ship
Viking® (www.viking.com) and Fincantieri have announced details of the Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, capable of operating with zero emissions. Already under construction at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, the Viking Libra is scheduled for delivery in late 2026. The Company’s subsequent ocean ship, the Viking Astrea, which is also currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in 2027, will also be hydrogen powered.
General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) grants Riyadh Air operational license
The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has officially granted an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) to Riyadh Air, authorizing the airline to start commercial flight operations. The issuance of the AOC confirms the Riyadh Air’s full compliance with Saudi Arabia’s aviation regulations, international standards, and flight safety requirements under the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation.
Air Canada to Offer Customers Increased Overhead Storage Room
Air Canada today announced that it will be the launch customer for the Airbus Airspace cabin on the A220 family of aircraft, giving customers more overhead storage space. The first aircraft to receive the new bins are scheduled to be delivered early in 2026.
Virgin Limited Edition Unveils the Ultimate Kenyan Safari Experience
Virgin Limited Edition, Sir Richard Branson’s collection of award-winning hotels and retreats, is thrilled to unveil an exclusive new experience connecting its two Kenyan safari properties, Mahali Mzuri and Finch Hattons. With direct flights between the camps launching in June, this offering comes at an exciting time, celebrating Finch Hattons joining the Virgin Limited Edition collection in 2024 and coinciding with the re-opening of Mahali Mzuri following its extensive refurbishment.