Travel News Page 58
CTO Launches Landmark Tourism Supply Side Committee
Calling for a new model of tourism that creates and retains greater value within the Caribbean, Dr. Terrance Drew, prime minister of St. Kitts and Nevis and chairman of CARICOM, has endorsed the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) new Tourism Supply Side Initiative, describing it as a critical step toward ensuring that tourism benefits the region’s people and its economies. Prime Minister Drew delivered virtual remarks Thursday during the launch of the new committee at Caribbean Week in New York, held at InterContinental New York Times Square.
Elika Cave Suites Cappadocia, Curio Collection by Hilton, Opens its Doors to Guests
Hilton today announced the opening of Elika Cave Suites Cappadocia, Curio Collection by Hilton, an individually remarkable new addition to Curio Collection’s global portfolio of unique hotels, created to immerse guests in one-of-a-kind moments in the world’s most sought-after destinations.
Hilton Announces Florida Keys Expansion Plans with Hilton Key West Resort & Marina
Hilton has announced the signing and upcoming conversion of Ocean’s Edge Resort & Marina to Hilton Key West Resort & Marina, expanding Hilton’s presence in the Florida Keys. The waterfront resort, located on Stock Island at the eastern edge of Key West, Florida with direct marina access, is now accepting reservations for stays beginning July 1, 2026. The property is owned by Sunstone Hotel Investors and will be managed by Hilton.
The Untitled Nashville Hotel at Bankers Alley, Tapestry Collection by Hilton Debuts in Music City
Designed to capture the rich culture and lively spirit of Music City, The Untitled Nashville Hotel at Bankers Alley, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, debuts today as an epicenter of art, music and cuisine in Nashville’s budding Bankers Alley District. Following a multi-million-dollar transformation by ownership RLJ Lodging Trust and rebrand to Tapestry Collection by Hilton, The Untitled Nashville Hotel at Bankers Alley introduces refreshed interiors, curated meeting and event spaces, creative amenities and a “write your own story” experience where every guest is the artist shaping the unique narrative of their stay - all set within the historic 1900s era Gray & Dudley Hardware Co. building. The boutique hotel’s art-forward reimagination arrives in tandem with an overarching revitalization of the iconic Second Avenue Historic District, bridging the city’s robust creative arts and entertainment scenes for a reinvigorated destination that introduces guests to the true cultural character of Nashville.
LXR Hotels & Resorts to Debut in Hakone, Japan’s Premier Hot Spring Destination
Hilton has announced an agreement with THE SANKEI BUILDING CO., LTD. and HASEKO Real Estate Development, Inc. to bring LXR Hotels & Resorts to Hakone Gora, Kanagawa. Scheduled to open in summer 2028, the hotel will be managed by Hilton and marks the first Hilton hotel in Hakone.
Boeing Delivers Riyadh Air’s First Two 787 Dreamliner Jets
Boeing and Riyadh Air announced that the new carrier’s first two passenger airplanes, 787 Dreamliners, were delivered and arrived in Riyadh, a milestone for the airline as it prepares to launch commercial service.
Jalisco, Mexico Takes Center Stage as Host of the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Ceremony
Jalisco, Mexico has firmly established itself on the global culinary stage as the official host of the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Mexico Ceremony, marking a historic milestone for the destination and its rapidly growing gastronomic influence.
Looney Tunes™ Land Now Open at Six Flags Magic Mountain
Six Flags Magic Mountain is excited to announce that Looney Tunes™ Land, a uniquely themed area with loveable characters, is now open. The refreshed family-friendly area has been reimagined where the timeless fun of Looney Tunes™ comes to life. Developed in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences and designed for young adventurers and families alike, Looney Tunes Land brings together colorful environments, playful attractions, and beloved characters for an all-new family experience filled with laughter, imagination and discovery. From scenic train rides and whimsical balloon adventures to interactive trails and camp-inspired fun, every corner of the land invites guests to explore the wacky worlds of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Taz, Road Runner and more.
Air Canada and Abra Group to Expand Travel and Connectivity between Canada & Latin America
Air Canada and Abra Group today announced they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop a broad, long-term strategic partnership. The agreement between Canada’s largest airline and the Latin American air transport company, whose carriers include the Avianca and GOL brands, would enable the partners to expand their global reach, providing customers and shippers greater connectivity across North, Central and South America and beyond. Any final agreement is subject to final documentation and regulatory approval.
Expert Guidance Now the Number One Driver of Expedition Travel Decisions, New Research Finds
New research from Aurora Expeditions reveals that expert-led experience has overtaken destination as the primary decision driver. It is a shift that reflects a broader transformation in how discerning travellers are approaching exploration. In a survey of more than 700 expeditioners, 95.3 per cent of respondents rated the expertise of the expedition team as the most important factor when selecting an operator. Itinerary came second (94.2%), followed by small ship size (93.3%) and landing opportunities (92.9%).
Barbados and BVI Leaders Receive Top Honors at Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Awards
Barbados’ top tourism executive Andrea Franklin, and Luce Hodge-Smith, junior minister of tourism and culture for the British Virgin Islands, received top honors during the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) third annual Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Awards held at InterContinental New York Times Square during Caribbean Week in New York on Monday.
Roberto Alvo Chairs the IATA Board of Directors
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Roberto Alvo, CEO of LATAM Airlines Group, has taken up duties as Chair of the IATA Board of Directors. His one-year term began at the conclusion of the 82nd IATA Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 8 June 2026. Alvo is the 84th Chair of the IATA Board of Directors on which he has served since 2020. Alvo succeeds Luis Gallego, CEO of International Airlines Group (IAG). Gallego will continue to serve on the Board.