Marriott International, Inc. reached a significant milestone in Japan today with the opening of its 100th property in Japan - Four Points Flex by Sheraton Osaka Umeda. This event also marks the inaugural debut of the Four Points Flex by Sheraton brand in Asia Pacific excluding China alongside global investment firm KKR, underscoring Marriott’s continued commitment to the midscale segment.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Shebandowan Holdings, S.A. today announced plans for Hotel La Compañía del Valle in Valle de Anton, Panamá, slated to open in early 2025. Located approximately 50 miles west of its sister hotel, Hotel La Compañía in Casco Antiguo, this new thought-provoking hotel will allow guests and World of Hyatt members to explore a new destination in central Panamá surrounded by biodiversity, mountains, and lush landscape. At its core, Hotel La Compañia del Valle will serve as an art and wellness house, inclusive of a one-of-a-kind sculpture park with art pieces around the corridors and hotel public areas offering natural healing spa treatments and experiences.

On the last supermoon of 2024 on 15 November, new research commissioned by hotel brand Holiday Inn Express reveals nearly a third (29%) of Brits say the moon’s phases affect their sleep quality. A further 62 percent of Brits also say a poor night’s sleep leaves them feeling low in mood and energy. With over half (53%) of Brits already turning to the soothing, repetitive sounds of ASMR to help them unwind - musician and mental wellness advocate Professor Green has partnered with Holiday Inn Express hotels, to create Professor Green’s Restful Rhythms. The calming playlist is now available to stream globally, just in time for 15 November supermoon.

The World Travel & Tourism Council ( WTTC ) is delighted to announce the appointment of Qusai Al-Fakhri, CEO of the Tourism Development Fund (TDF) in Saudi Arabia, to its Executive Committee. Mr. Al-Fakhri brings more than two decades of experience in corporate and investment banking, as well as a strong track record in tourism development. Mr. Al-Fakhri has held several high-profile roles throughout his career, including serving as an Investment Advisor to His Excellency the Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia, Co-Founder of Tiraz AlArabia, and CEO of Al Ajial Holding.

Japan has been growing increasingly popular as a travel destination, with influential magazine Condé Nast Traveler placing it at number 1 on its list of “the best countries in the world” for two years running. Larger cities like Tokyo and Kyoto have been the focal point of this popularity, but demand is rising by the day for more genuine experiences, suggesting a growing need for tourism development in local regions of Japan. Enter WaWo Japan Travel, an agency that has long cooperated with local organizations to uncover Japan’s hidden gems, in addition to utilizing its bountiful experience providing tour arrangement services to overseas travel agencies. Applying its deep knowledge of local Japan, WaWo has begun selling original tours on its newly launched tour site “WaWo Japan Tours” (http://wawojapantours.com).

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino invites couples to celebrate their love with unmatched elegance and breathtaking oceanfront views. Nestled in the heart of Palm Beach, Aruba, the resort offers curated experiences tailored to every stage of a couple’s journey—from babymoons and honeymoons to engagements and unforgettable weddings. With premium accommodations and packages like the exclusive “La Vie en Rose,” the Aruba Marriott Resort transforms every occasion into an extraordinary celebration.