InterContinental New York Barclay Celebrates 99 Years of Timeless Luxury and Prepares for a Centennial of Historic Elegance Innovation and Immersive Guest Experiences

InterContinental New York Barclay, the iconic Midtown Manhattan hotel, is celebrating 99 years of refined luxury as it counts down to its 100th anniversary in 2026. Since its opening in 1926, the property has stood as a timeless symbol of elegance, seamlessly blending the rich traditions of New York with modern sophistication. Over nearly a century, it has evolved alongside the city, offering a discreet yet unforgettable hospitality experience that captures the enduring spirit of Manhattan.

To mark this milestone, the hotel has launched a year-long celebration designed to honor its history, engage guests in unique experiences, and set the stage for the centennial. The program invites visitors to explore each defining era of the hotel’s evolution through innovative storytelling, culinary highlights, design tributes, and immersive packages.

Blending Heritage and Modern Innovation

The hotel is embracing the digital age with the launch of a new mobile app designed to enhance the guest experience. The app serves as a comprehensive digital companion, providing a range of features that highlight the hotel’s rich history while offering practical conveniences.

Guests can explore:

• Archival content and storytelling features showcasing the hotel’s 100-year legacy.
• Behind-the-scenes insights and exclusive “#MyBarclay” narratives.
• A complete directory of services, amenities, dining options, and local recommendations.

This digital platform ensures guests can navigate the property effortlessly while gaining inspiration from its storied past and discovering the nuances that make the hotel a unique landmark.

A Legacy of Family and Community

The hotel has long been cherished as a gathering place for families, and its centennial celebrations emphasize this tradition. Special programming allows guests to connect with the property’s history while enjoying modern touches, ensuring that each visit is both nostalgic and contemporary.

Highlights include:

• Family-friendly activities that celebrate the hotel’s history.
• Appearances by the hotel’s beloved mascot, creating memorable experiences for younger guests.
• Exclusive keepsakes, including collectible ornaments and themed gifts for pets.

The “Journey to 100” package invites guests to immerse themselves in a different decade with every stay. From the roaring 1920s to today’s sleek modernity, each visit celebrates a distinct era through design, culinary experiences, and storytelling.

Package features include:

• Two-night accommodations in premium guestrooms or suites.
• Era-inspired welcome amenities, including house-made treats and cocktail kits reflecting the featured decade.
• Collectible commemorative keepsakes that evolve with each passing decade.
• Exclusive dining experiences highlighting the culinary style of the era, complete with rotating menus and curated cocktail pairings.

Culinary Time Travel at The Parlour

The hotel’s signature restaurant, The Parlour, offers a culinary journey across the decades, with menus and experiences designed to evoke the atmosphere of each era. Beginning with the 1920s and continuing through to modern day, the restaurant presents rotating menus that highlight signature dishes, presentation styles, and cocktails unique to each period.

Examples of featured eras include:

• 1920s: A nod to Prohibition-era sophistication, featuring dishes such as German pancakes, Derby Hot Browns, Oysters Rockefeller, and Lobster Thermidor. Cocktails include the Bee’s Knees, combining gin, lemon, and honey to evoke the glamour of jazz-filled nights in New York.
• 1930s: Reflecting the Great Depression tempered by lingering 1920s elegance, menus include comfort-focused yet refined options such as Skillet O’Brien Potatoes, Bacon Roll-Ups, Consommé Grand Mère, and Steam-Roasted Truffle Chicken with seasonal vegetables. Cocktails include The Southside, a classic gin, lime, and mint drink favored by New York’s elite.

Each month, the dining experience is enhanced by period-inspired music, décor, and storytelling, ensuring guests are fully immersed in the ambiance of the featured decade.

Honoring the Past While Embracing the Future

As the hotel approaches its centennial, the celebrations balance a deep respect for its history with forward-looking innovations in hospitality. From immersive digital experiences to bespoke culinary journeys and thoughtfully curated guest packages, the property continues to redefine luxury for the modern traveler while remaining anchored in the traditions that have defined it for nearly a century.

The InterContinental New York Barclay stands as more than just a hotel—it is a living chronicle of New York, offering guests the chance to experience a century of elegance, innovation, and hospitality. Its upcoming 100th anniversary promises a year of immersive storytelling, celebratory events, and timeless luxury, ensuring the landmark continues to capture the imagination of travelers from around the world.

Image: InterContinental

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Minor Hotels Expands in Mexico’s Guadalajara with Innovative Loft-Style Studios Catering to Business Travelers Digital Nomads and Modern Guests

Minor Hotels Europe & Americas is expanding its footprint in Mexico with the upcoming launch of NH Guadalajara Studios, set to open in late 2025. This move marks a significant step in the company’s strategy to strengthen its presence in Latin America and cater to the evolving needs of modern travelers. With a portfolio spanning over 560 properties across 57 countries, the company continues to blend international standards with localized experiences.

Situated in the prestigious Colonia Providencia neighborhood, NH Guadalajara Studios offers an innovative approach to hospitality in one of the city’s most secure, well-connected, and sought-after areas. This property will become the 18th hotel operated by the company in Mexico, joining its existing network and complementing Tivoli Mérida Residences, providing both domestic and international travelers with an array of accommodation options.

The new hotel is tailored to meet the lifestyle of contemporary travelers who seek a seamless mix of work, leisure, and comfort. NH Guadalajara Studios features 152 loft-style studios designed to provide the privacy and convenience of an apartment while retaining the benefits of hotel living, including personalized service, professional hospitality, and premium amenities. These spaces are ideal for short, medium, and long stays, reflecting a growing trend where travel is no longer just about visiting a destination but living, working, and connecting within it.

Each studio is fully equipped to support independent living without compromising on comfort. Guests will find modern conveniences such as a refrigerator, electric hob, microwave, toaster, blender, Nespresso coffee machine, and a complete set of kitchen utensils. In addition, access to loyalty programs and tailored guest services ensures a highly personalized experience, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality and attention to detail.

The property offers a wide range of amenities designed to support both work and relaxation. A restaurant and café with seating for 64 guests provides a social hub and dining space, while a dedicated meeting room caters to business travelers. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy a fully equipped gym, and a rooftop area with a swimming pool, lounge terrace, and panoramic views creates a perfect setting for relaxation and networking. Additional features include a green terrace for reading or socializing, room service, self-service laundry, and underground parking, all aimed at delivering a seamless guest experience.

This development responds to the rising demand for flexible, connected, and lifestyle-oriented accommodations. The concept is particularly appealing to digital nomads, professionals on the move, and travelers who value functionality, design, and freedom within their living environment. NH Guadalajara Studios represents a forward-thinking hospitality model that aligns with the way modern travelers experience the world—blending work, leisure, and human connection in a single space.

Guadalajara itself is a strategic choice for this project. Recognized as one of Mexico’s leading tourist and business destinations, the city attracts millions of visitors annually. Recent data indicates that it ranked fifth among Mexico’s most visited cities by international travelers, with 1.1 million visitors accounting for a 6.8 percent market share between January and October 2024. Overall, Guadalajara is projected to welcome more than 16 million total visitors by the end of 2024. Its rich cultural offerings, international events, economic vitality, and reputation as a technology hub make it a prime location for hospitality investment and innovative lodging solutions.

Operating under a globally recognized brand known for its functional stays and contemporary design, NH Guadalajara Studios reinforces the commitment to delivering high-quality, versatile hospitality experiences. By integrating modern living spaces with professional hotel services, the property reflects a broader shift in the industry toward accommodating travelers’ evolving expectations and lifestyles.

The introduction of NH Guadalajara Studios highlights the company’s strategy of providing flexible, adaptive, and guest-focused accommodations across key urban centers. By doing so, it not only strengthens its presence in Mexico but also enhances the overall portfolio in Latin America, offering travelers new ways to experience the region while maintaining high international standards of comfort and service.

As the opening approaches, NH Guadalajara Studios is poised to set a new benchmark for contemporary hospitality in Guadalajara. With its innovative design, comprehensive amenities, and focus on the modern traveler’s needs, the property promises to redefine what it means to stay, work, and live in one of Mexico’s most dynamic cities.

Image: AI

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Abu Dhabi Soars Higher as Etihad Airways Launches Direct Flights to Tunis, Vietnam, Thailand and Hong Kong to Boost Tourism and International Connectivity

Etihad Airways strengthens Abu Dhabi’s global reach with new routes to Tunis, Vietnam, Thailand, and Hong Kong, boosting tourism, trade, and cultural exchange while enhancing international connectivity.

Etihad Airways has set another benchmark in its ongoing growth journey, unveiling four major new routes from Abu Dhabi to Tunis, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Hong Kong within just three consecutive days. This impressive expansion marks a significant chapter in the airline’s record-breaking year, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s standing as a world-class hub for air connectivity, tourism, and trade. The launch also underlines Etihad’s contribution to nearly 45% of the UAE’s total aviation growth this year — a testament to its ambitious network development and strategic global partnerships.

Expanding Horizons Across Continents

Etihad’s latest expansion connects the UAE capital with four dynamic destinations across North Africa and Asia, creating new bridges for travellers, businesses, and tourism boards. The new flights add thousands of additional seats to and from Abu Dhabi every week, inviting more travellers from Africa and Asia to experience the city’s architectural marvels, pristine coastline, luxury resorts, and vibrant cultural calendar.

The airline’s latest network additions not only enhance inbound tourism but also provide UAE residents and visitors with greater travel flexibility to key international destinations for leisure, business, and cultural exchange.

Strengthening Global Connectivity

Tunis – Bridging the UAE and North Africa
Commencing on 1 November 2025, Etihad now operates three weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Tunis. The new connection strengthens Etihad’s North African network, catering to the rising demand for travel between the UAE and Tunisia. Tunis, known for its Mediterranean charm and historical treasures, is now more accessible than ever for UAE travellers.

Hanoi – Linking Abu Dhabi and Vietnam’s Capital
On 2 November 2025, Etihad inaugurated six weekly flights to Hanoi, creating the first-ever direct link between Abu Dhabi and Vietnam’s capital city. This route deepens economic and tourism ties between the UAE and Vietnam, promoting trade, investment, and cultural collaboration. Hanoi’s growing reputation as a tourism and business hub aligns perfectly with Etihad’s strategic expansion into emerging Asian markets.

Chiang Mai – Opening Northern Thailand to the Middle East
Launched on 3 November 2025, Etihad’s four weekly flights to Chiang Mai connect travellers from the Middle East and Europe to one of Thailand’s most enchanting regions. This service offers seamless access to Northern Thailand’s cultural landmarks, scenic mountain ranges, and world-renowned hospitality. It also enhances Abu Dhabi’s status as a stopover destination linking East and West.

Hong Kong – Reconnecting with Asia’s Premier Business Centre
Etihad’s new five weekly flights to Hong Kong, also beginning on 3 November 2025, mark a significant return to one of Asia’s most influential financial and leisure hubs. The route coincides with the relaunch of Etihad’s codeshare agreement with Hong Kong Airlines, delivering enhanced connectivity across Asia. This collaboration expands travel options for passengers heading to cities across mainland China, Japan, and Southeast Asia through coordinated schedules and integrated services.

Driving Abu Dhabi’s Aviation Ambitions

Etihad’s latest route additions are aligned with Abu Dhabi’s broader vision to position itself as a central aviation hub connecting East and West. The expansion supports the emirate’s tourism and economic goals by attracting visitors, facilitating international business, and increasing trade flow.

Each new destination has been carefully chosen to complement Etihad’s growing network and deliver diverse options for travellers — from exploring ancient cities in Tunisia and Vietnam to discovering nature-rich escapes in Thailand or conducting business in Hong Kong’s dynamic metropolis.

The new flight schedules also reflect Etihad’s strategic approach to optimize aircraft utilization, offering passengers flexible flight timings and smooth transit connections through Abu Dhabi International Airport. The deployment of Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A321LR aircraft ensures passengers enjoy comfort, efficiency, and reduced environmental impact during their journeys.

Etihad’s Vision for Global Expansion

As the airline continues to expand its global footprint, these new routes demonstrate Etihad’s commitment to innovation, customer experience, and sustainable growth. The expansion highlights how the carrier is not just connecting destinations — but also connecting cultures, economies, and opportunities across continents.

By adding routes across North Africa and Asia, Etihad is strategically enhancing Abu Dhabi’s role as a global gateway and reaffirming its mission to deliver world-class connectivity that fuels economic and tourism development throughout the UAE and beyond.

Flight Details Overview

Abu Dhabi – Tunis (from 1 November 2025)

• Frequency: 3 weekly (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday)
• Aircraft: Airbus A321LR
• Departure: 02:20 from Abu Dhabi, arriving Tunis 06:20
• Return: 10:40 from Tunis, arriving Abu Dhabi 19:25

Abu Dhabi – Hanoi (from 2 November 2025)

• Frequency: 6 weekly
• Aircraft: Boeing 787 Dreamliner
• Sample Departures: 09:05 and 20:50 from Abu Dhabi, with return flights from Hanoi at 20:00 and 07:40 on select days

Abu Dhabi – Chiang Mai (from 3 November 2025)

• Frequency: 4 weekly
• Aircraft: Airbus A321LR
• Departure: 21:20 from Abu Dhabi, arriving Chiang Mai 06:05
• Return: 08:50 from Chiang Mai, arriving Abu Dhabi 13:05

Abu Dhabi – Hong Kong (from 3 November 2025)

• Frequency: 5 weekly
• Aircraft: Boeing 787 Dreamliner
• Departure: 21:15 from Abu Dhabi, arriving Hong Kong 08:30
• Return: 19:35 from Hong Kong, arriving Abu Dhabi 00:25 (+1)

Etihad Airways’ newest additions represent more than just expanded flight options — they embody the spirit of global connectivity and innovation that continues to define the UAE’s aviation success story.

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Sri Lanka Emerges as Asias Rising Star in Global Tourism with Authentic Adventures and Simplified Travel Access

Sri Lanka, often called Asia’s hidden treasure, is stepping into the global spotlight as one of the most sought-after destinations for travellers craving authenticity, adventure, and untouched natural beauty. Once overlooked in favour of more commercial Asian hotspots, the island nation is now drawing attention from around the world for its raw charm, cultural depth, and year-round tropical appeal.

Recent travel trends show a powerful shift in global curiosity toward Sri Lanka. On TikTok, the hashtag #TravelSriLanka may appear modest with just over 47,000 posts, yet it has already generated an impressive 210 million views. This surge in digital attention highlights how the country is captivating the imagination of a new generation of travellers. Complementing this trend, Google searches for “should I go to Sri Lanka” have risen by 200% in the past year, while “Sri Lanka travel” has jumped by 72% in the last month alone—evidence of growing interest from UK and European holidaymakers.

Simplified Visa Rules Boost UK Travel Confidence

Adding to the positive momentum, Sri Lanka recently made a decisive move to simplify its travel entry system for international visitors. A new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) policy introduced in mid-October 2025 briefly caused confusion among travellers, as it required all foreign visitors, including UK nationals, to pre-register online before departure. However, following feedback from the travel industry and tourists, the Sri Lankan government revoked the new system just days later on 30 October 2025.

With the change, UK tourists can once again apply for the standard online visa or opt for a visa on arrival without any additional formalities. The reinstated system has been praised by travel experts for reducing red tape and restoring convenience for holidaymakers. This quick response has strengthened confidence among British travellers, who often look for straightforward and flexible travel arrangements when planning their winter escapes.

The simplification of entry procedures also aligns perfectly with the island’s reputation for being a friendly, accessible, and spontaneous destination—ideal for last-minute getaways or extended tropical stays.

The Rise of Sri Lanka on Social Media

Sri Lanka’s recent social media fame has been another driving force behind its tourism revival. TikTok creators and travel bloggers have begun spotlighting the island as “what Bali was 20 years ago”—a destination that still offers pristine beaches, cultural authenticity, and immersive local experiences without the overwhelming crowds.

Travel influencers documenting their journeys across Sri Lanka are introducing millions to the island’s hidden gems—from scenic train rides through emerald tea plantations to the chaos and colour of Colombo’s markets and the serene beaches of Mirissa and Arugam Bay. These raw, real-life portrayals are resonating with travellers who crave more than surface-level sightseeing.

The shift toward immersive and cultural travel has also become a key motivator for many visitors. Rather than focusing solely on luxury resorts or commercial attractions, modern travellers are increasingly engaging with the local way of life—learning to cook traditional dishes, participating in village tours, or staying at eco-lodges that directly support local communities.

A Hidden Gem on the Verge of Global Fame

With its strengthening air connectivity, favourable exchange rates, and renewed global attention, Sri Lanka is poised to become Asia’s next major tourism success story. Industry analysts forecast a wave of new interest from adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and digital nomads eager to explore an affordable yet luxurious destination.

Direct flights from major UK cities and European hubs have made travel to the island easier than ever. Combined with diverse experiences and a reputation for warm hospitality, Sri Lanka is becoming an irresistible choice for those seeking an unfiltered connection with nature and culture.

Why Travellers Are Choosing Sri Lanka

Authenticity – Visitors are drawn to the genuine warmth of Sri Lankans and the chance to experience daily life up close. Local initiatives such as the Eco Team Project in Galle invite travellers to participate in cooking classes and cultural exchanges with fishing communities, directly supporting sustainable tourism.

Diversity – The country offers a remarkable range of activities within a small geographical area. Surfing at sunrise in Arugam Bay, hiking misty trails in Nuwara Eliya, exploring the ancient fortress of Sigiriya, and watching elephants roam in Minneriya National Park—all can be experienced within a single trip.

Tranquility – Unlike popular Asian destinations such as Bali or Phuket, Sri Lanka remains uncrowded, allowing travellers to enjoy its natural and historical wonders in peace.

All-Year Appeal – Thanks to its unique dual monsoon system, there’s always a sunny region to explore. Travellers can chase the sun between the southern beaches and the island’s central highlands regardless of the season.

The Future of Travel in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s resurgence as a top travel destination represents a return to what many travellers crave most—authentic connections, natural beauty, and meaningful experiences. As more people discover its magic, the island stands ready to take its place among Asia’s premier travel destinations.

For now, Sri Lanka remains a paradise that feels both timeless and new—a rare combination that is quickly turning it from a hidden gem into the shining star of Asian tourism.

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Air India And TIRUN Join Forces To Launch Seamless Fly Cruise Packages For Indian Travellers: Everything You Need to Know

India’s growing appetite for global leisure experiences is taking a major leap forward as TIRUN Travel Marketing, a pioneer in India’s cruise industry for more than three decades, unveils a landmark collaboration with Air India. This strategic partnership introduces integrated Fly-Cruise packages that merge the convenience of domestic and international air travel with the allure of luxury cruises, offering travellers a smooth, end-to-end journey from their home city to some of the world’s most coveted cruise destinations.

The partnership officially commenced in November, marking a transformative moment in India’s outbound travel market. Under this initiative, travellers can now book combined air and cruise itineraries that connect Air India and Air India Express flights directly with world-class voyages from TIRUN’s cruise portfolio — including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. Initially, the Fly-Cruise offerings will connect travellers to embarkation ports in Singapore and Hong Kong, with expansion plans to destinations such as Sydney, Los Angeles, and key European ports in the near future.

This integrated travel concept eliminates the long-standing hassle of separate flight and cruise bookings, allowing passengers to enjoy a seamless transition from air to sea. Travellers can conveniently choose their preferred cruise itinerary and fly from their home city on an Air India or Air India Express flight that connects directly to the cruise port — all under a single, unified booking framework. The program ensures end-to-end support, from check-in to boarding, streamlining travel logistics and enhancing the overall experience for first-time cruisers and seasoned voyagers alike.

Beyond convenience, this collaboration is a reflection of a larger transformation sweeping across India’s outbound travel landscape. Indian travellers are increasingly gravitating toward curated, all-inclusive journeys that blend leisure, luxury, and adventure. The Fly-Cruise model taps directly into this evolving demand, offering travellers an effortless way to explore the world with minimal planning stress. It also presents an opportunity for families and groups to experience international holidays in a format that combines exploration with ease — flying in comfort and cruising in style.

From a travel industry perspective, the alliance between Air India and TIRUN represents a powerful fusion of aviation and maritime tourism. It empowers travel agents and tour operators across the country with a ready-to-market, air-inclusive cruise product that can be sold directly to customers. By simplifying operational logistics and offering transparent, combined pricing, the program enables agents to reach new segments of travellers who may have previously found international cruising complex or inaccessible.

Moreover, this partnership arrives at a time when India’s outbound travel market is witnessing rapid diversification. As rising disposable incomes and a growing middle class fuel wanderlust, more Indian travellers are seeking multi-destination experiences that combine convenience with adventure. The Fly-Cruise initiative embodies this spirit — transforming the way Indian travellers explore the world by turning long-distance travel into a seamless, interconnected experience.

The collaboration also underscores Air India’s broader vision to enhance global connectivity and redefine travel convenience. By integrating flight services with cruise itineraries, the airline is positioning itself as a facilitator of holistic travel experiences, rather than simply a mode of transportation. For TIRUN, this partnership extends its pioneering role in cruise marketing by offering travellers an innovative way to access global voyages with ease, comfort, and efficiency.

With bookings available through TIRUN’s extensive distribution network, travellers can now plan and purchase their Fly-Cruise holidays in one go — selecting their preferred itinerary and connecting seamlessly via Air India to their embarkation port. Whether it’s a voyage across Asia, a journey through the Mediterranean, or a transpacific adventure, the initiative ensures travellers can embark on their dream cruise without the logistical burden of coordinating multiple travel segments.

As India’s outbound tourism sector continues to expand, partnerships like this signal a new era in experiential travel. The Air India–TIRUN Fly-Cruise program not only simplifies global holidays but also redefines what it means to travel — blending connectivity, comfort, and the joy of exploration into one integrated journey. It marks a decisive step forward in aligning India’s travel industry with global standards, ensuring that Indian travellers can explore the world with the same ease and sophistication as their international counterparts.

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