Travel News Page 694
Marriott International Signs Agreement to Debut The Luxury Collection and AC Hotels to Shenzhen
Marriott International, Inc. today announced that it has signed an agreement with Shum Yip Holdings Company Limited to introduce The Luxury Collection and AC Hotels by Marriott to Shenzhen, a coastal city situated in southern China. Expected to open in November 2028, the Luxury Collection Hotel in Shenzhen will offer its authentic twist to luxury that encapsulates the spirit of the destination, while AC Hotel by Marriott Shenzhen North Station will provide its trademark modern design and seamless experience.
Sun Princess Makes Highly Anticipated North American Debut for First Caribbean Season
The stunning Sun Princess – the newest, next-level Love Boat from Princess Cruises – debuted in North America this week, arriving in Ft. Lauderdale after a successful inaugural Mediterranean season. A true engineering marvel, the new 177,882-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess was first introduced in the Mediterranean in February 2024. Award-winning actress and performer Hannah Waddingham officially welcomed the newest and most innovative Princess Cruises ship, serving as godmother during a star-studded naming ceremony in Barcelona in April.
SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CELEBRATES 100TH CONCERT IN THE SKY
Southwest Airlines Co. hosted a surprise concert on Flight #1989 from Nashville to Miami with GRAMMY Award-winning songwriter Liz Rose, who was traveling to watch the songs she wrote with Taylor Swift take the stage at the global superstar’s Miami show. This Southwest® flight took place on Oct. 17 and celebrates the 100th concert of the airline’s signature Live at 35® program that started in 2011, which brings live music performances onboard at 35,000 feet.
TAP CUSTOMERS CAN HELP TACKLE POVERTY THROUGH AIR MILE DONATIONS
TAP Air Portugal’s frequent flyers can help build a better world by donating their air miles to three charities that support human rights, education for all children and ending poverty. The option to donate through ‘solidarity travel’ is available to all members of TAP’s Miles&Go programme when flying to any of the airline’s 80+ destinations in the US, South America, Europe and Africa. The charities – APOIAR, Orbis and Sol Sem Fronteiras – will each receive one million airmiles from TAP and a further one million from the airline’s generous customers. Those miles will then be exchanged for flights for organisations to deliver the vital goods and services that the charities need.
Norway’s Growing Popularity Among UK Travellers
Norway is rapidly emerging as a top destination for British skiers this winter, according to Britain’s original specialist ski travel agency and tailor-made tour operator, Ski Solutions. As of 17 October 2024, Ski Solutions has seen December 2024 bookings to Norway surge by 64% year-on-year, reflecting a strong appetite for the Norwegian slopes among UK travellers.
Africa’s travel and tourism innovators celebrate at VIP reception in Diani Beach Kenya
Tourism royalty from across Africa convened at Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort, Diani Beach, Kenya for the World Travel Awards Africa Gala Ceremony 2024 to recognise the travel organisations pushing the boundaries of excellence and innovation.
MT Sobek’s Best New Adventures for 2025
Mountain Travel Sobek, the original adventure travel company, is thrilled to announce its unique lineup of 2025 trips. Known for its nearly 60-year legacy of crafting innovative journeys, MT Sobek’s latest offerings lean into bold, off-the-beaten-path adventures that promise to spark excitement. From thrilling walking safaris in Kenya to unforgettable hikes across Central America and Europe, these new trips tap into MT Sobek’s hiking roots while delivering something different.
BAHA MAR UNVEILS EXPANSION PLANS WITH NEW BEACHFRONT RESORT AND RESIDENCES
The leading luxury resort Baha Mar announces expansion plans to add a 4th luxury resort as the next phase of its continued development. The new resort and residences will be a stunning addition to Baha Mar’s “luxury of choice” collection, with a projected opening in 2029. Today Baha Mar and the government of The Bahamas have signed their Heads of Agreement signaling the approval to move the project forward to construction.
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa Celebrates 200 Years of Hospitality in Monterey
The Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa celebrated 200 years of hospitality on Saturday, September 21, 2024. Over 250 people attended this festive event, which paid homage to the rich history of Casa Munras and praised the vibrant tradition of hospitality that continues today. The entertainment included classical Spanish guitar, Spanish bolero music, flamenco dancers, and cooking demonstrations. Estéban Restaurant served culinary delights, and beverages flowed. Just as it has been since 1824, Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa and Estéban Restaurant was the gathering spot for visitors, community members, and local dignitaries.
Azamara Cruises Returns to Alaska in Summer 2026
Azamara Cruises – the small-ship cruise line renowned for Destination Immersion® and Extended Destination Days – is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated return to the breathtaking landscapes and rugged wilderness of Alaska in the summer of 2026. After a seven-year hiatus, Azamara Cruises will once again offer its signature, intimate voyages to one of the world’s most unspoiled destinations with reputable onshore excursions and experiences that bring guests closer to the heart of Alaska’s awe-inspiring natural beauty, unparalleled wildlife, and authentic rich culture.
Starboard Luxury introduces a one-of-a-kind Bvlgari boutique and bespoke experiences
Starboard Luxury, the luxury division of Starboard Group, in collaboration with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Bvlgari, has launched a Bvlgari boutique aboard the fleet’s newest yacht, Ilma. This prestigious alliance will extend far beyond retail offerings, with the essence of Bvlgari seamlessly woven into every aspect of Ilma’s guest vacation journey, from in-suite amenities and culinary experiences to onboard and onshore activations.
UNIQUE APPROACHES TO TRAVEL INDUSTRY SUSTAINABILITY FORTHCOMING AT ‘A WORLD FOR TRAVEL’ EVENT
The highly anticipated 5th edition of A World for Travel event is set to take place on October 23-24 in Seville, Spain, and promises to showcase unique and exciting aspects of addressing sustainability challenges within the global travel industry. This year’s event will not only focus on collaborative actions but will also draw on tangential industries to share innovative approaches.