JetBlue and United Airlines Set to Introduce Exclusive Travel Perks, Priority Boarding, and Same-Day Changes by Spring 2026

JetBlue and United Airlines are enhancing their Blue Sky partnership with a new customer benefit that offers travelers more flexibility when booking flights. Starting this week, customers can now purchase eligible itineraries operated by either airline directly through their websites or mobile apps. This new feature marks a key milestone in the collaboration between the two carriers, making it easier for passengers to choose the payment method that suits them best.

For the first time, travelers can book flights on both JetBlue and United using cash, points, or miles. This expanded payment flexibility provides customers with more freedom while increasing access to the extensive networks of both airlines. When searching for flights, travelers will notice a wider range of options, making it simpler to plan and book their trips. Looking ahead, the airlines have plans to enable customers to book a single itinerary that includes flights from both carriers, further streamlining the booking process.

This launch follows the success of the reciprocal loyalty earning and redemption program that debuted in 2025. With this feature, members of JetBlue’s TrueBlue and United’s MileagePlus programs could earn and redeem rewards on both airlines. Now, with the introduction of revenue booking, JetBlue and United are solidifying their commitment to creating a seamless, connected, and flexible travel experience.

“With cash bookings now available, Blue Sky is making it even easier for customers to plan and purchase travel across two leading networks,” Andrew Nocella, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer at United. “This milestone is another proof point of the value Blue Sky is bringing customers – in giving them the ability to book with cash, miles or points on either network, customers now have more choice, flexibility and a better overall booking experience when traveling to their favorite destinations.”

“This is an important step forward in our Blue Sky collaboration, expanding the choice and flexibility we offer customers when they travel,” said Marty St. George, president of JetBlue. “This move gives our members even more ability to earn and redeem points to exciting destinations around the world, while United customers gain access to JetBlue’s network across the Americas and Europe. Throughout the year, we will enhance the Blue Sky collaboration by introducing reciprocal loyalty perks on flights and expanding Paisly-powered vacation offerings, including United-supported products such as hotels, cruises, rental cars and travel insurance.”

Greater Booking Flexibility and Wider Options

The Blue Sky partnership opens up a range of new possibilities for travelers:

• Booking with Ease: Customers can now purchase flights or redeem their loyalty currency—TrueBlue points for JetBlue flights or MileagePlus miles for United flights—directly on either airline’s website or app, depending on their preference.
• Expanded Networks: Travelers gain access to more flights, taking advantage of JetBlue’s strong presence in leisure markets and United’s expansive domestic and international network, including United Express. This allows customers to reach even more destinations with ease.
• More Transparency: The Blue Sky collaboration provides clearer options and greater transparency when planning trips, with better insight into how loyalty rewards are valued, making it easier to make informed decisions.
• JetBlue Vacations and More: JetBlue Vacations customers can now book United flights as part of their Flight + Hotel packages. Additionally, cruise packages are expected to be added soon, opening the door to bucket-list travel experiences in destinations such as Japan, Brazil, Italy, and Greece. This provides a broader variety of vacation options, enhancing the value of JetBlue Vacations for customers.

Future Enhancements to Improve the Travel Experience

While this new feature is already a significant leap forward, both airlines are looking to offer even more customer benefits in the future. Among the most anticipated changes are:

• Reciprocal Perks: Expected to arrive in spring 2026, customers will be able to enjoy perks such as priority boarding, preferred and extra legroom seating, as well as same-day changes and standby options. These benefits are set to further improve the travel experience for those using both airlines.
• Expansion of MileagePlus Travel: United plans to transition MileagePlus Travel to Paisly, LLC by late 2026. This move will allow MileagePlus members to expand their booking capabilities, offering additional services like hotels, vacation packages, rental cars, cruises, and travel insurance—all through Paisly’s new travel platform.
• Growth at JFK Airport: As part of its collaboration with United, JetBlue is facilitating access to up to seven daily roundtrips for United at the new Terminal 6 at New York’s JFK Airport, set to open in 2027. This collaboration will enhance connectivity and convenience for travelers flying from one of the busiest airports in the world.

The continued evolution of the Blue Sky partnership highlights the airlines’ commitment to providing a more integrated and customer-centric travel experience. By offering greater flexibility in booking, expanded options for loyalty rewards, and an exciting array of future perks, JetBlue and United are paving the way for a new era of airline collaboration that promises to enhance the way travelers plan and experience their journeys.

Both airlines are committed to continuing to roll out these benefits in phases, with future updates set to further expand the opportunities available to their passengers. These changes not only promise more seamless travel but also highlight the growing importance of partnerships between major airlines in enhancing customer service and expanding travel options. As the collaboration develops, passengers can expect even more ways to enjoy the benefits of both airlines, transforming the way they experience air travel.

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West Virginia and Western Maryland Urged to Monitor Weather as Hazardous Winter Conditions Forecasted for Wednesday Morning

West Virginia and Western Maryland are advised to closely monitor weather conditions as a fast-moving winter storm is expected to bring hazardous snow, freezing drizzle, and gusty winds on Wednesday morning. These conditions are likely to cause slippery roads, unsafe travel, and potential power outages, making it vital for residents and travelers to stay informed and prepared, particularly during the morning commute.

The storm will impact both regions, creating dangerous travel conditions from the early hours of the morning through the afternoon, as snow and freezing drizzle combine to make roads hazardous.

From about 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, light snow accumulation of up to one inch is expected in several areas, including western Garrett County in Maryland, as well as neighboring western Grant and Pendleton counties in West Virginia. In addition to the snow, periods of freezing drizzle are anticipated, which will likely create a glaze of ice on roads, bridges, and elevated surfaces. The combination of snow and ice will create dangerously slippery conditions.

Wind gusts could reach speeds of up to 45 mph, further complicating travel as the gusty winds may blow snow and ice across roadways. This could cause additional hazards, including fallen branches and isolated power outages, as trees weakened by the ice struggle to withstand the strong winds.

The most dangerous time for travel is expected to be late tonight through the Wednesday morning commute, with untreated roads and bridges potentially becoming slick. Even small amounts of ice can lead to hazardous driving conditions, particularly in areas like U.S. 219 and I-68 near the Backbone Mountain corridor. Secondary mountain roads will also be susceptible to ice buildup, making them a concern for early commuters.

Transportation crews from the Maryland Department of Transportation and the West Virginia Department of Highways will be actively treating priority routes to prevent icing, but drivers are urged to remain cautious, especially as road conditions can change rapidly. Higher elevations and shaded areas are more likely to experience freezing conditions, and sudden icy patches can appear unexpectedly. The gusty winds may also blow snow and ice across the roads, further impairing visibility and making driving more treacherous. Additionally, these strong winds could bring down tree limbs that have already been weakened by the freezing rain.

Residents and travelers in the affected areas should be prepared for difficult conditions on Wednesday morning. Schools and businesses in these regions should keep an eye on the weather and make adjustments accordingly. Given the hazardous travel conditions, it is highly recommended that non-essential travel be avoided, especially during the morning commute. Drivers should allow extra space between vehicles, slow down on curves, bridges, and overpasses, and exercise caution when approaching intersections or entering roads that might be covered in a thin layer of ice.

In addition to road safety, residents are advised to secure any loose outdoor items, such as patio furniture, trash bins, and decorations, which could be blown around by the high winds. Power outages are also a possibility due to fallen branches or downed power lines, so it’s wise to have backup plans for charging devices and to keep extra batteries on hand in case of an extended power disruption.

Travelers are urged to monitor weather conditions closely throughout the day, as winter storm conditions may persist longer than initially anticipated. Anyone planning to head out during the storm should check local forecasts and travel advisories before leaving. It’s crucial to keep updated on any potential road closures, delays, or service interruptions, especially in areas prone to more significant ice accumulation.

West Virginia and Western Maryland are urged to monitor weather conditions as hazardous winter weather, including snow, freezing drizzle, and gusty winds, is forecasted for Wednesday morning, creating dangerous travel and potential power outages.

In conclusion, residents and travelers in West Virginia and Western Maryland should stay vigilant as a winter storm brings hazardous conditions on Wednesday. With snow, freezing drizzle, and strong winds expected to create dangerous travel and potential power outages, it’s crucial to monitor updates and take necessary precautions. Limiting travel, securing outdoor items, and preparing for brief power disruptions will help ensure safety during this challenging weather event.

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Masque in Mumbai Wins the Art of Hospitality Award 2026, Celebrating a Decade of Culinary Excellence

Masque, a trailblazer in modern Indian gastronomy, has been honored with the Art of Hospitality Award 2026. Announced in the lead-up to the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 event, this recognition celebrates an establishment that has delivered an unparalleled hospitality experience over the past 18 months. The award is voted on by the 350-plus members of the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, a panel that represents the crème de la crème of the Asian culinary world.

Founded in 2016 by Aditi Dugar, a visionary home cook and entrepreneur, Masque has quickly gained international acclaim for its innovative approach to Indian cuisine. Situated in a repurposed textile mill in Mumbai, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience that blends tradition with cutting-edge techniques. Masque’s 10-course tasting menus highlight seasonal, locally sourced, and foraged ingredients, offering an immersive and interactive journey for its guests.

A spokesperson for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants says: “Masque’s win recognises more than exceptional service – it celebrates how the restaurant has built a complete ecosystem of hospitality around modern Indian gastronomy. The team’s dedication to sourcing across India, their experimental approach to both food and cocktails and their ability to create intimate, interactive dining moments all demonstrate that at Masque, hospitality is inseparable from innovation.”

On winning the Art of Hospitality Award 2026, Aditi Dugar says, “It feels incredible to bring home this award in our tenth year. It’s been a dream for as long as we can remember. It only reaffirms what we’ve been trying to achieve since Masque opened its doors – to treat every guest with care, generosity and the utmost humility. And of course, it goes without saying that this recognition belongs to the brilliant team at Masque, who shows up every day with unwavering commitment and the rigour to be the best. I’m deeply grateful to them, to everyone who has believed in our journey and to Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants for recognising hospitality as something soulful and deeply human.”

Under the guidance of head chef Varun Totlani, Masque’s kitchen team travels across India, from the forests of Kashmir to the shores of Goa, seeking hyperlocal produce to bring out the full spectrum of flavors in each dish. Central to the restaurant’s innovative spirit is the Masque Lab, an R&D kitchen where traditional Indian cooking is married with global techniques and culinary influences. This lab also serves as an intimate private dining space, hosting only 14 guests for a truly exclusive experience.

Masque’s menu offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with dishes such as prickly pear paired with nagphani and coconut malai, and a refined interpretation of the Gujarati winter snack, ponkh bhel, enhanced with Goan seaweed. The restaurant’s cocktail program takes a similarly experimental approach, blending seasonal ingredients, flavors, and techniques to complement the tasting menus’ modern Indian flavors.

The Art of Hospitality Award is presented to restaurants that deliver extraordinary dining experiences, where personalized service plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall experience. Masque joins an elite group of past winners, including Toyo Eatery in Manila, known for transforming service into an art form, and Nusara in Bangkok, helmed by chef Thitid ‘Ton’ Tassanakajohn, among others.

This prestigious award is the second of three pre-announced honors leading up to the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants awards ceremony, which will be held in Hong Kong at the Kerry Hotel on March 25, 2026.

To ensure transparency and fairness, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants collaborates with professional services consultancy Deloitte, which acts as the official independent adjudication partner. This partnership guarantees the authenticity and integrity of the voting process for the 2026 list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.

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IHCL Partners with Beryll Group to Open Taj Weligama, a Luxury Coastal Resort Offering Wellness and Dining Excellence in Sri Lanka

India’s largest hospitality group, The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), has announced an exciting new project, the signing of a Taj hotel in Weligama, Sri Lanka. This development marks a significant expansion for the Taj brand in the region, adding a new dimension to Sri Lanka’s rising appeal as a global tourist destination.

The upcoming Taj Weligama will be a greenfield project located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. The resort will feature 220 keys, including 80 luxury apartments, designed to cater to both leisure and long-term stays. The property’s prime beachfront location will provide guests with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, making it an ideal getaway for both relaxation and adventure.

Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL, said, “Weligama is shaping into one of Sri Lanka’s prominent coastal destinations, supported by the rise of surfing, wellness and nature‑led travel. With tourism gaining steady momentum in the country, this development strengthens the Taj brand’s presence in the region. We are pleased to partner with Beryll Group for this project.”

Weligama, a scenic coastal town, is renowned for its crescent-shaped bay, perfect for surfing enthusiasts, and its laid-back atmosphere, which has made it increasingly popular among travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Its appeal has risen in recent years, with nature-based travel experiences and wellness tourism at the forefront of its transformation.

A Premier Resort for Wellness, Dining, and Entertainment

The Taj Weligama promises to be a comprehensive luxury resort, combining relaxation with world-class facilities. Guests will have the opportunity to indulge in various dining experiences, including an all-day dining restaurant, two specialty restaurants, a beach bar and grill, and a lounge offering delectable snacks and drinks. For those looking to relax by the beach, the resort will also feature a deli for quick bites.

One of the standout features of the Taj Weligama will be its J Wellness Circle, a unique offering by Taj Hotels designed to provide holistic health and wellness experiences. The wellness center will focus on rejuvenating treatments that draw inspiration from traditional and modern practices to restore balance to body and mind. In addition to this, the resort will have a state-of-the-art gym, a swimming pool, a kids’ playroom, and an entertainment zone, ensuring that there’s something for every member of the family.

For guests looking to host social events or business meetings, the resort will feature a banquet hall and convention facilities spanning over 9,000 sq. ft. The venue will also offer several meeting rooms and exclusive lawns, making it an ideal location for weddings, conferences, and other large gatherings.

A Vision of Quality and Sustainability

Mr. Vishal Agarwal, Director, Beryll Group said, “Weligama represents a destination with enduring global appeal. Partnering with IHCL and Taj allows us to develop a thoughtfully designed coastal resort that aligns with the region’s natural character while meeting international luxury standards. This project reflects our long-term commitment to Sri Lanka and to creating high-quality hospitality assets with global partners.”

The development of Taj Weligama is a part of the larger trend of Sri Lanka becoming a key player in global tourism. With its tropical beaches, rich culture, and growing infrastructure, the island nation is quickly becoming a top choice for both international tourists and regional travelers.

Beryll Group’s involvement in the project signals a long-term commitment to Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, with a focus on high-quality hospitality assets and sustainable growth. The Taj Weligama will not only elevate the local tourism offering but also provide a luxurious and environmentally mindful resort for visitors from around the world.

The announcement of this Taj hotel in Weligama comes at a time when Sri Lanka is seeing a steady recovery in its tourism sector, following challenges in the past few years. With its combination of luxury, wellness, and coastal charm, Taj Weligama is set to become a landmark property in one of the island’s most captivating destinations.

Weligama’s Promising Future

As Sri Lanka continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, Weligama is emerging as one of the most attractive destinations for travelers seeking a coastal retreat. The Taj Weligama project not only reflects the growing demand for high-end tourism in the region but also highlights IHCL’s continued commitment to expanding its brand beyond India. The resort’s comprehensive offerings will help put Weligama on the map as a premier destination for both local and international visitors, ensuring that this beachfront town remains a top choice for travelers seeking a blend of nature, wellness, and luxury.

With its wide array of facilities and strategic location along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Taj Weligama is set to deliver an unparalleled experience to all who visit.

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Türkiye Breaks Records in 2025 with Sixty-Four Million Visitors and Over Sixty-Five Billion Dollars in Revenue, Cementing Its Position as the World’s 4th Most Visited Destination

In 2025, Türkiye’s tourism sector reached new heights, attracting sixty-four million international visitors and generating a record $65.2 billion in revenue. This exceptional achievement reflects a 3% increase in arrivals and a 7% rise in tourism earnings compared to the previous year, solidifying Türkiye’s status as the world’s fourth-most visited destination. The growth was driven by a mix of factors, including the country’s diverse attractions, targeted marketing efforts, and the successful hosting of major international events. Despite regional challenges, Türkiye’s resilience has helped it strengthen its position as a leading global tourism hub.

Resilience Amid Regional Challenges

Despite the challenges posed by ongoing geopolitical tensions in its neighboring regions, Türkiye’s tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Even with external pressures, the industry has shown its ability to weather crises, highlighting its adaptability and strength. The continued growth reflects the efforts of both public and private sectors to stabilize and expand the tourism market. With this robust performance, industry representatives remain optimistic, projecting that 2026 will build upon the success of 2025, pushing the sector to achieve even higher records.

Diversifying Tourism Through Year-Round Strategies

One of the key strategies driving this growth is Türkiye’s focus on extending its tourism season beyond the summer months. Traditionally known for its summer beach resorts, the country is now placing greater emphasis on promoting off-season travel. This is being achieved by spreading tourism across a variety of niche segments, including sports tourism, conferences, and winter tourism. These efforts are designed to draw tourists to different regions of the country throughout the year, providing a balanced flow of visitors and reducing the seasonal dependency on summer months.

Event Tourism: A Pillar for Sustainable Growth

A critical aspect of this strategy involves capitalizing on high-profile international events. Antalya, one of the country’s most popular Mediterranean resort cities, continues to play a pivotal role in this plan. Ranked among the world’s top ten tourist cities, Antalya has become a hub for global diplomacy and business, hosting prominent events such as the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, the International Astronautical Congress, and the upcoming COP31 climate conference in 2026. These events not only attract visitors during the off-peak seasons but also enhance Türkiye’s global reputation as a center for international dialogue and cooperation.

In addition to large-scale conferences, Türkiye is investing heavily in smaller, niche events that cater to specific tourist interests, from sports tournaments to cultural festivals. These efforts are expected to further diversify the tourist base and contribute to a steady stream of visitors year-round.

Leveraging Cultural and Geographical Diversity

Türkiye’s diverse offerings are another significant factor in the sector’s growth. The country’s rich historical heritage, combined with its geographical beauty, presents a compelling attraction for travelers worldwide. From the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Troy to the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia and Pamukkale, Türkiye’s mix of culture, history, and natural wonders makes it an appealing destination for all types of travelers.

This diversity allows the tourism industry to tap into a broad market, catering to different types of travelers, from those seeking a cultural experience to those looking for adventure or relaxation. This multifaceted approach ensures the country can meet the growing demand for diverse travel experiences.

Sustaining Growth and Enhancing Global Profile

Looking ahead, Türkiye’s tourism strategy is focused on ensuring continued growth by further enhancing its global standing. Hosting international events and continuing to promote its unique attractions will be central to this effort. The goal is to solidify Türkiye’s place as a leading tourism destination, drawing visitors from all corners of the world. By leveraging its position as a bridge between Europe and Asia, the country aims to enhance its visibility as a global tourism hub, attracting not only leisure travelers but also business and diplomatic delegations.

As the country continues to invest in infrastructure, tourism services, and strategic partnerships, Türkiye’s tourism sector is poised to remain a cornerstone of its economic growth. The approach of spreading tourism across various regions and seasons will help mitigate the effects of seasonal fluctuations, while international events will keep Türkiye on the global radar as a must-visit destination.

Conclusion

In 2025, Türkiye welcomed sixty-four million visitors and earned over sixty-five billion dollars in revenue, solidifying its position as the world’s fourth-most visited destination through diverse attractions, strategic marketing, and major international events.

Türkiye’s remarkable tourism performance in 2025 has set the stage for a bright future, positioning the country as a key player in the global tourism market. By diversifying its offerings, extending the tourism season, and hosting world-class events, Türkiye is securing sustainable growth and reinforcing its status as a leading destination for travelers worldwide. With strategic planning and resilience, the country’s tourism industry is poised to continue thriving in the years ahead.

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Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Hosts a Spectacular Lunar New Year Celebration with Dragon Dance, Dumplings, and Poolside Parties

Four Seasons Resorts Maldives is set to usher in the Year of the Fire Horse with an exciting week of vibrant celebrations across its stunning Landaa Giraavaru and Kuda Huraa resorts. From February 16 to 24, 2026, guests can immerse themselves in a series of dynamic cultural experiences, island elegance, and family-friendly moments, all reflecting the bold and spirited nature of this rare zodiac year.

The Fire Horse is known for its fearless energy, enthusiasm, and drive, making it the perfect inspiration for a year full of adventure, fresh starts, and meaningful connections. What better place to celebrate than in the tropical paradise of the Maldives?

A Culinary Delight: Baiweiyuan Dumpling Restaurant Pop-Up (February 16-23, 2026)
To mark the occasion, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives welcomes the renowned Michelin-recognized Baiweiyuan Dumpling Restaurant from Beijing for a special pop-up. Running from February 16 to 23, 2026, this unique experience will take place at both Landaa Giraavaru and Kuda Huraa. Baiweiyuan is famous for its made-to-order dumplings and comforting soups that have been cherished by Beijingers for generations. Guests will have the chance to savor signature dumplings such as pork and chive, beef and onion, and a selection of vegetarian options like egg and tomato. Cold starters like soy-braised pork trotter will add to the delightful experience.

Each dumpling is freshly made to order, capturing the passion and generosity of spirit that defines the Fire Horse. This exclusive culinary celebration is sure to add an authentic touch of Beijing to the Indian Ocean setting.

Lunar New Year Festivities at Kuda Huraa (February 16-24, 2026)
At Kuda Huraa, the Lunar New Year festivities unfold like a lively island carnival. The celebrations kick off with a traditional Reunion Dinner at Café Huraa, followed by a week of themed dining nights, an outdoor cinema, a lively Pool Party, and a vibrant Pop-Up Asian Market that embodies the joy of the season.

Guests can enjoy a diverse range of experiences, from a Secret Beach BBQ under the stars to a Mediterranean Market at Reef Club and an Asian Buffet at Café Huraa. Every evening brings a new opportunity to celebrate, with Baiweiyuan’s dumpling pop-up available throughout the week.

Highlights at Kuda Huraa include:

• Reunion Dinner on February 16
• Family Feast Lunch, Seafood Night, and Asian Buffet
• Secret Beach BBQ and Mediterranean Market
• Pool Party with DJ on February 18
• Pop-Up Asian Market and outdoor movie nights
• Baiweiyuan Dumpling pop-up available daily

The Kuda Mas Kids Club will also host a two-week festival designed for younger guests. Activities inspired by the Fire Horse’s sense of freedom and joy include lantern painting, snorkel adventures, arts and crafts, dumpling making, tie-dye t-shirts, karaoke night, and beach games. These fun-filled experiences are sure to spark creativity and confidence in children, allowing them to enjoy the festivities with the same enthusiastic spirit as the Fire Horse.

Lunar New Year at Landaa Giraavaru (February 16, 2026)
Landaa Giraavaru will kick off the New Year with an exciting poolside celebration from 7:00 to 10:30 pm. The night will come alive with a Dragon Dance performance, a live DJ, and glowing lanterns that transform the main pool into a festive gathering space. A Yu Sheng prosperity toss will set the tone for a year of abundance and good fortune, while live-action food stations will offer delicious celebratory dishes.

Landaa highlights include:

• Poolside Lunar New Year Celebration
• Dragon Dance performance
• Live DJ and festive ambiance
• Yu Sheng prosperity toss
• Culture-inspired welcome drinks
• Baiweiyuan Dumpling pop-up available throughout the week

A Year of Prosperity and Connection
Lunar New Year at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives is about more than just celebrations—it’s about bringing families and friends together in the spirit of prosperity, connection, and shared joy. Whether you’re gathering for a Yu Sheng toss at Landaa Giraavaru or enjoying the lantern-lit nights at Kuda Huraa, this festive season offers a unique opportunity to honor the year ahead with love, laughter, and good fortune.

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Langzhong Welcomes the World for 2026 Spring Festival Celebrations in the Birthplace of the Spring Festival

As the 2026 Spring Festival approaches, Langzhong, known as the “Ancient City of the World and Birthplace of the Spring Festival,” is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration. Announced during a February 4 briefing on cultural and tourism activities by the Sichuan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, Nanchong City revealed an extended holiday period for the upcoming Lunar New Year, running from January 26 to March 4, 2026. This extraordinary stretch from the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month to the sixteenth day of the first lunar month invites visitors from around the world to immerse themselves in the most authentic and enriching Chinese New Year traditions.

Langzhong’s festivities promise to offer a deep dive into the cultural and historical significance of the Spring Festival, which has roots dating back over 1,500 years. A highlight of the celebrations will be the “Langzhong Stone Rubbing Exhibition for the Lunar New Year.” This captivating exhibit showcases rare rubbings of ancient stone inscriptions, allowing visitors to trace the history and evolution of this cultural milestone through tangible imprints of the past. In addition, visitors will encounter the “Old Man of the Spring Festival,” a figure dressed in traditional attire who will roam the city streets, offering blessings and wishing everyone a prosperous new year.

The city’s offerings go beyond exhibitions, with an array of interactive cultural experiences for visitors of all ages. One of the central attractions will be the vibrant intangible cultural heritage (ICH) market, where more than 40 nationally and provincially recognized ICH items will be on display. This bustling market will give visitors the chance to engage with traditional crafts, such as creating shadow puppets and cutting intricate paper window decorations—activities that bring these ancient customs to life.

For those interested in local folklore, Langzhong offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness a performance of the Ba Commandery Nuo Opera, a unique ICH item from Sichuan Province. This ritualistic opera blends ancient religious practices with folk theater and offers a truly mesmerizing insight into the region’s mystic traditions. The opera is just one part of Langzhong’s immersive cultural programming, which also includes the New Year Grand Temple Fair. This expansive event brings together cultural performances, themed exhibitions, and modern recreational attractions, ensuring that every visitor, from children to adults, will find something to enjoy. Visitors can also experience the grand-scale stage play Legend of Langyuan, which brings Langzhong’s rich history to life, or embark on unique activities such as water tours or low-altitude flights over the picturesque landscape.

Langzhong’s title as the “Ancient City of the World and Birthplace of the Spring Festival” stems from its pivotal role in Chinese calendrical history. In the Western Han Dynasty, the astronomer Luo Xiahong compiled the groundbreaking Taichu Calendar, marking the first formalization of the Spring Festival as a fixed annual event. His work integrated the 24 solar terms into the Chinese calendar system, designating the first day of the first lunar month as the official start of the year. Luo Xiahong’s contributions earned him the title of the original “Old Man of the Spring Festival,” as his work profoundly shaped Chinese agricultural and cultural life for over two millennia. This historical connection is why Langzhong holds such an important place in the heart of the Spring Festival celebrations.

Today, Langzhong continues to honor its legacy, offering the most authentic Lunar New Year customs, while welcoming travelers from around the globe to experience the warmth and hospitality of its people. The 2026 Spring Festival in Langzhong promises to be a celebration of history, culture, and tradition—a must-see destination for anyone looking to fully experience the magic of the Chinese New Year.

Whether you are exploring ancient relics, participating in hands-on craft workshops, or enjoying spectacular performances, Langzhong’s 2026 festivities will offer a truly unforgettable New Year experience, steeped in centuries-old traditions and the vibrant spirit of the Spring Festival.

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Unique Lanka Travels Shines at OTM 2026, Showcasing Sri Lanka’s Unmatched Tourism Offerings to Indian Travelers

Unique Lanka Travels, one of Sri Lanka’s premier Destination Management Companies (DMC), made a remarkable presence at OTM 2026, Asia’s largest travel trade expo, held from February 5-7, 2026, at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, India. This participation highlights the company’s commitment to positioning Sri Lanka as a top travel destination for Indian outbound travelers while strengthening its ties with global travel suppliers and partners.

OTM 2026: A Major Hub for Global Travel Trade

OTM 2026 served as a significant platform for the travel industry, attracting over 60 countries and bringing together tourism boards, tour operators, and travel experts from across the globe. The event not only provided an opportunity for industry professionals to meet and exchange ideas but also facilitated business development and strategic collaborations on high-end projects in the tourism sector. As the largest B2B travel exhibition in Asia, OTM is known for its ability to connect key stakeholders in the travel industry, offering a venue for sharing insights and exploring potential business ventures.

Sri Lanka’s Hidden Gems on Display

At OTM 2026, Unique Lanka Travels took center stage by showcasing the beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka, a destination rich in natural wonders, culture, and history. Through a captivating video presentation, they highlighted the island’s stunning white-sand beaches, lush hill country, and ancient historical sites that speak to the country’s rich cultural heritage. The video was designed to entice Indian travelers with a visual journey through Sri Lanka’s most iconic and hidden gems, promoting the island as an all-encompassing destination for every type of vacationer.

Tailored Experiences for the Modern Traveler

Understanding the evolving preferences of Indian tourists, Unique Lanka Travels emphasized its ability to create personalized travel experiences that cater to a variety of interests. Whether travelers seek leisure, adventure, luxury, or cultural immersion, the company promises to tailor itineraries to suit the unique needs of each visitor. This focus on customization allows tourists to experience Sri Lanka beyond its popular tourist spots and explore its diverse landscapes, from serene beaches to bustling markets, from breathtaking mountain ranges to historic temples.

Expanding Offerings to Meet Diverse Demands

At the trade show, Unique Lanka Travels also showcased its full range of destination management services, underlining the company’s expertise in crafting specialized tours and bespoke itineraries. The company’s services span cultural and nature-based visits, adventure activities, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) support, and Responsible Tourism Programs, which focus on sustainable practices. By offering these varied services, Unique Lanka Travels ensures that each visitor to Sri Lanka has a memorable, enriching, and responsible travel experience.

Fostering Stronger Trade Relations and Partnerships

OTM 2026 provided Unique Lanka Travels with a crucial platform to connect with international travel suppliers and strengthen its relationships with global partners. By showcasing its ability to curate high-quality travel experiences and promoting Sri Lanka’s diverse offerings, the company reinforced its role as a key player in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. Furthermore, its participation in such a prestigious event underscores the company’s dedication to elevating Sri Lanka’s profile in the Indian market, one of the island’s largest source markets for international tourists.

Commenting on the participation, Charith De Alwis, CEO, Unique Lanka Travels, said, “India remains one of the largest sources of new visitors to Sri Lanka. OTM is an excellent platform for connecting to trade relations, gaining insight into current market trends and developing new tourism offerings together with the respective trade relations. As a company, Unique Lanka Travels has been focused on delivering authentic, custom made and sustainable travel experiences through knowledgeable staff that are easy to work with and provide smooth operations.”

Unique Lanka Travels: A Gateway to Sri Lanka

As Sri Lanka continues to grow as a top destination for Indian travelers, Unique Lanka Travels stands out for its exceptional ability to offer personalized, high-quality experiences. Their presence at OTM 2026 was not just about showcasing Sri Lanka’s beauty, but also about demonstrating the company’s commitment to providing unique and tailored experiences for Indian vacationers. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, Unique Lanka Travels has established itself as the trusted gateway to experience Sri Lanka like never before.

By aligning with the changing trends in global tourism and addressing the diverse needs of Indian travelers, Unique Lanka Travels continues to drive growth in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector. As the company looks to the future, it remains committed to offering innovative solutions that will make Sri Lanka a destination of choice for international tourists, particularly those from India.

The post Unique Lanka Travels Shines at OTM 2026, Showcasing Sri Lanka’s Unmatched Tourism Offerings to Indian Travelers appeared first on Travel And Tour World.