In 2026, Millennials and Gen Z are reshaping the way travel budgets are allocated, challenging traditional spending patterns by placing a greater emphasis on cultural immersion and authentic experiences rather than material goods. As economic pressures continue to rise globally, younger generations are opting to spend smarter, prioritizing activities that offer deeper connections and more meaningful memories. This shift marks a dramatic departure from past travel trends, where shopping and luxury goods were once seen as essential components of a trip. Instead, today’s travellers are focused on enriching their journeys with experiences that go beyond the surface, seeking out destinations and activities that offer cultural depth, personal growth, and a richer understanding of the world around them.
Recent global consumer findings across Asia Pacific, Europe, and North America show that 88 percent of travellers intend to maintain or increase their travel budgets this year. That level of commitment stands out at a time when inflation, higher living costs, and financial caution dominate headlines. Instead of pulling back, travellers are recalibrating.
International trips remain central to 2026 plans. Nine out of ten respondents expect to cross borders at least once this year. Even more telling, 61 percent are planning to travel within the first six months, marking a clear acceleration in early-year demand compared to previous cycles. Travel is no longer being postponed. It is being prioritised.
Asia Pacific continues to set the pace. Travellers in the region show significantly stronger intent to raise travel spending than their counterparts in Europe and the United States. With a 50 percent higher inclination to increase budgets, Asia Pacific has positioned itself as the primary engine driving global tourism momentum this year.
Yet the real shift lies not in how much people are spending, but in what they are spending on.
When faced with rising costs, travellers are making strategic trade-offs. Retail shopping and material purchases are often scaled back. Experiences, however, are protected. Guided excursions, culinary immersions, cultural workshops, outdoor expeditions, and curated local activities are seen as essential components of a meaningful trip.
In Asia Pacific especially, travellers are nearly twice as likely as those in Western markets to increase spending on experiential activities. The message is clear: value is measured in memory-making moments, not in merchandise.
This shift is also changing how trips are structured. Two-thirds of travellers now plan to visit multiple destinations within a single journey. The single-city holiday is giving way to broader, layered itineraries. Major urban hubs are becoming gateways — launching points that connect visitors to secondary cities, rural landscapes, and lesser-known cultural districts.
Japan illustrates this pattern well. While Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto remain iconic, growing attention is flowing toward cities such as Yokohama, Hiroshima, and Nagoya. Travellers are seeking locations that feel authentic and culturally textured rather than simply famous.
The same dynamic can be seen in other parts of the world. In Australia, Cairns and Hobart are gaining visibility among travellers drawn to nature and local character. In Europe, regions like Baix Llobregat in Spain and Tromsø in Norway are attracting those eager to move beyond capital cities. In the Middle East, Sharjah and Hurghada are emerging as compelling alternatives to traditional tourism magnets.
Across markets, three motivations stand out. Authentic local experiences lead the list, followed closely by the appeal of discovering hidden gems. Affordability also remains a decisive factor, particularly as travellers aim to maximise value without sacrificing quality. Together, these drivers signal a desire for deeper engagement and more distinctive storytelling.
Digital behaviour is playing a powerful role in shaping this new landscape. Eighty percent of global travellers acknowledge that social media influences their destination and experience choices. Short-form videos, peer-generated content, and immersive visuals continue to ignite curiosity and set travel aspirations.
But inspiration is only one side of the equation. Artificial intelligence has moved from novelty to necessity in trip planning. Ninety-one percent of travellers now use AI tools while preparing for travel. The technology is primarily practical — assisting with itinerary design, price comparison, language translation, and budget tracking. The result is a travel planning process that blends emotional discovery with analytical efficiency.
This combination is producing a more intentional traveller. Rather than racing to check off landmarks, many are curating journeys that balance exploration with meaning. The emphasis is on connection — to culture, to community, to landscape.
For destinations, this represents a strategic opportunity. Secondary cities and regional destinations stand to benefit as visitor flows become more distributed. Tourism authorities that invest in authentic narratives, sustainable offerings, and seamless digital access are more likely to capture this shifting demand.
Millennials and Gen Z sit at the heart of this transformation. Digitally fluent and experience-driven, they are redefining travel success. Their choices are influencing airline route expansion, hotel design, and tour packaging. They are willing to spend — but only when the return is emotional enrichment rather than surface-level prestige.
As 2026 unfolds, global tourism appears poised for more than simple recovery. It is entering a phase defined by conscious spending, diversified itineraries, and technology-enabled planning. The appetite for travel remains strong, but the rules have changed.
In this new era, the most successful destinations will not simply attract visitors. They will offer depth, authenticity, and experiences that resonate long after the journey ends.
Cambodia is stepping away from the race for rapid tourism expansion and embracing a steadier, resilience-driven path. With safety reassurance, diversified source markets, infrastructure upgrades and a strong 2026 international event calendar, the country is reshaping its tourism model to stabilise arrivals, rebuild global confidence and secure long-term sustainable growth.
Officials have adopted a pragmatic outlook. While modest improvements are visible, the immediate mission is to protect existing volumes, rebuild confidence in key markets and reduce dependence on vulnerable transit routes.
Managing Border Sensitivities and Regional Shifts
One of the most significant disruptions has been the loss of roughly one million Thai visitors due to border-related tensions in northern areas. Thailand has historically served as a major transit hub for Cambodia, with around thirty percent of international arrivals entering through Thai gateways. When cross-border flows slowed, the impact on arrival figures was immediate.
Authorities emphasise that the affected border zones are far from major tourism centres such as Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. However, perception travels faster than geography. To counterbalance this dependency, Cambodia is strengthening cooperation with Vietnam and intensifying promotional efforts in southern coastal destinations. The broader objective is to rebalance regional access and avoid overreliance on a single corridor.
Arrivals continue to be evenly split between air and land routes. About half of international visitors fly into the country, while the rest enter through land checkpoints. Cambodia operates nine international crossings with Vietnam and six with Thailand, underscoring the importance of cross-border mobility. The opening of the upgraded Senecio International Airport in September 2025 has also enhanced air capacity, improving Cambodia’s readiness for future route expansion and long-haul connectivity.
Turning Rain into a Competitive Advantage
Seasonality has long shaped Cambodia’s tourism cycle. The months from May to October, traditionally marked by heavier rainfall, have typically seen softer performance. Rather than accept lower occupancy, the Ministry has reframed this period as the “Green Season.”
The campaign highlights Cambodia’s lush landscapes, quieter attractions and improved value during these months. Hotels are offering discounted rates and bundled packages, while tourism operators are promoting nature-based experiences and community tourism initiatives. The message is clear: fewer crowds and vibrant scenery can be advantages, not drawbacks.
Although the cooler months from November to February remain popular with first-time visitors, authorities see year-round balance as essential for financial sustainability. By reshaping seasonal perception, Cambodia hopes to smooth revenue flows across the calendar.
Diversifying Beyond Traditional Source Markets
Reducing reliance on a limited group of markets is central to the recovery roadmap. Cambodia has rolled out targeted promotional campaigns tailored to specific countries and segments.
A focused initiative for the Chinese market operates between June and October, offering specialised marketing support to revitalise arrivals. Meanwhile, the India-Cambodia Tourism Year includes trade engagement, cultural promotion and film collaborations, along with efforts to strengthen direct air services from major Indian cities. International Yoga Day has been leveraged as a cultural bridge, reinforcing people-to-people connections.
Authorities are planning to replicate similar market-specific programmes for Japan, Korea and selected European countries. The emphasis is not just on increasing numbers but on attracting travellers who stay longer and spend more.
In addition, Cambodia is building a Muslim-friendly tourism framework. By encouraging halal-certified facilities and services, the country aims to tap into Muslim-majority markets and gradually expand its footprint in Middle Eastern travel networks. Competing effectively in these long-haul segments will require continued investment in service quality and product refinement.
Events as Catalysts for Visibility
The 2026 calendar plays a strategic role in reshaping Cambodia’s global image. Flagship events such as the Equinox celebration, River Festival, Sea Festival, International Yoga Day and Villa Francophonie are expected to draw both leisure visitors and international delegates.
Beyond direct visitor numbers, these gatherings are designed to generate experiential credibility. By bringing travel buyers, media representatives and global stakeholders to Cambodia, authorities aim to replace abstract headlines with firsthand impressions. Event-led promotion is being positioned as a powerful counterweight to negative narratives.
Institutional Strengthening and Marketing Focus
Cambodia’s tourism governance now operates through a dual framework. The Ministry of Tourism continues to handle policy direction and regional cooperation within ASEAN structures. Supporting this role is the Cambodia Tourism Board, a government-backed body with a stronger commercial mandate and increased promotional resources.
The Board collaborates closely with private sector stakeholders, concentrating on international sales missions, networking with buyers and proactive market engagement. Its creation signals sustained political commitment to strengthening Cambodia’s competitive position in the global tourism arena.
Rebuilding Reputation and Trust
Media reports related to online scams have influenced perceptions in certain markets, particularly China and South Korea. Authorities argue that these cases often involve foreign actors and do not reflect the broader tourism environment.
A target has been set to eliminate such activities by 2027. Enforcement measures are intended to reinforce Cambodia’s reputation as a safe destination. Officials maintain that travellers who visit frequently report positive experiences that contradict external portrayals.
A Stabilisation-First Future
Cambodia’s tourism geography remains concentrated in key destinations such as Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampot and Sihanoukville. Rather than pursuing rapid territorial expansion, the strategy centres on improving product depth, diversifying source markets and enhancing promotional precision.
In a competitive and unpredictable travel climate, Cambodia is choosing resilience over speed. By reinforcing safety assurance, broadening market outreach, upgrading infrastructure and leveraging international events, the country is building a recovery model grounded in stability. Growth may return gradually, but the foundation being laid today is designed to endure.
Global tourism is entering a more complicated phase as diplomatic strains, rising social sentiment, and heightened awareness of national identity begin influencing where travellers choose to go. While borders remain open and flights continue operating, booking decisions are increasingly shaped by perception rather than policy, with many visitors prioritizing destinations where they feel socially comfortable and genuinely welcomed over those simply offering attractions or affordability.
That reality has not vanished. Popular destinations still face pressure during peak seasons. But the conversation shaping travel in 2026 feels different. The tension is less about how many travellers are arriving and more about how they feel when they do.
Global tourism remains active. Aircraft fleets are expanding. New routes are being announced across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Governments continue promoting heritage corridors, beach circuits, luxury resorts, and cultural festivals. On the surface, the machinery of travel is running smoothly.
Yet a quieter shift is taking place beneath the data.
A Subtle Change in Decision-Making
Travellers are no longer evaluating destinations solely on price, safety, and convenience. A new filter has entered the equation: social ease.
Will this place feel welcoming right now?
Will my nationality or language matter more than it used to?
Will political tensions shape how visitors from my country are perceived?
These are not questions typically addressed in official tourism campaigns. They are shaped by headlines, viral social media debates, diplomatic disputes, and peer conversations. In a world where information circulates instantly, perception travels faster than policy.
Airports can operate normally. Visa regimes can remain unchanged. Hotels can maintain high service standards. Yet if sentiment shifts, demand can move with surprising speed.
When Geopolitics Influences Travel
In recent years, diplomatic disagreements have increasingly spilled into the tourism sphere. Social media campaigns urging boycotts, nationalist rhetoric, and heightened media coverage have influenced booking patterns, even when no formal restrictions exist.
Travel flows between certain markets have fluctuated following political tensions. In some cases, travellers postponed trips. In others, they redirected spending toward alternative destinations perceived as less emotionally charged.
What makes this shift notable is that it is rarely driven by direct policy barriers. It is often psychological. Travellers are responding to atmosphere rather than regulation.
This represents an important structural evolution. Tourism, once considered somewhat insulated from political discourse, is becoming more sensitive to it.
An Expanded View of Risk
For decades, risk assessment in travel was largely practical. Visitors considered crime rates, healthcare systems, natural disasters, and affordability. The pandemic permanently added public health to that checklist.
Now, social context is being added.
Travellers increasingly consider whether they may feel exposed or out of place. The concern is seldom about physical safety. It is about subtle discomfort. The possibility of being viewed through a political lens. The sense that global narratives might follow them across borders.
Tourism historically allowed individuals to step outside political identity. A visitor could simply be a tourist. That separation feels less automatic today. National identity is more visible in online discourse, and travellers are more aware of how it might be interpreted abroad.
Localized Sensitivities and Digital Amplification
Beyond international politics, localized cultural tensions can also shape travel sentiment. In certain resort towns and nightlife hubs, isolated friction between communities and specific visitor segments has generated debate.
These incidents are typically limited and manageable. However, digital amplification changes their scale. A single video clip or social media thread can circulate widely, shaping perception well beyond the immediate location.
In response, some travellers gravitate toward destinations perceived as socially uncomplicated. They seek environments where the focus remains on experience rather than identity.
Neutrality as an Economic Asset
In this environment, neutrality becomes more than a diplomatic stance. It becomes a tourism advantage.
Destinations seen as politically distant from active disputes often benefit when tensions rise elsewhere. If one country becomes associated with controversy, travellers frequently redirect toward alternatives offering similar climate, culture, and value without perceived friction.
Demand does not disappear easily. It adapts.
A beach holiday may shift from one coastline to another. A cultural city break may move across borders. A winter sun escape may relocate to a region viewed as calmer. These shifts can create short-term gains for some destinations and unexpected slowdowns for others.
However, this fluidity introduces volatility. Sentiment can change rapidly, sometimes faster than tourism boards can recalibrate strategy.
A More Complex Industry Challenge
Managing overtourism was challenging but measurable. Authorities could track arrivals, occupancy rates, and congestion levels. Solutions involved infrastructure upgrades, timed entry systems, and visitor dispersion strategies.
Managing perception is less straightforward. It does not always appear clearly in statistics until trends are already underway. Traditional marketing campaigns highlighting attractions or discounts cannot easily counterbalance atmosphere-driven hesitation.
The challenge is more nuanced. It involves preserving an environment where visitors feel personally comfortable rather than symbolically scrutinized.
The Value of Emotional Comfort
As global tensions continue to influence headlines and online conversations, emotional comfort may become one of the most important currencies in tourism.
Travellers are not withdrawing from international exploration. Mobility remains strong. What is evolving is the emotional filter applied before booking.
In this landscape, destinations that consistently project calm, inclusivity, and openness may hold a strategic edge. Infrastructure matters. Air connectivity matters. Pricing matters. But the feeling of uncomplicated welcome may matter just as much.
The next phase of global tourism may not be defined by overcrowded landmarks, but by something quieter: the search for ease. In a world where identity feels more visible and narratives travel instantly, the places that succeed will be those that allow visitors to simply be travellers again — not representatives of something larger.
Goa has stepped into a new league of international engagement with the inauguration of the International Convention and Expo Centre Goa during India Energy Week 2026. The launch signals more than the opening of a new venue. It reflects a strategic shift in how the state positions itself within India’s evolving economic and tourism framework.
Unveiled alongside one of the world’s largest energy gatherings, the centre immediately proved its capability to operate on a global scale. Hosting a high-profile international event at the time of inauguration demonstrated both logistical readiness and institutional confidence. Thousands of delegates, industry participants and exhibitors gathered under one roof, placing Goa firmly on the international conference map.
A Significant Boost to India’s MICE Infrastructure
The project represents an investment of approximately USD 90 to 97 million, equivalent to around INR 750 to 800 crore. This financial commitment highlights the increasing importance of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions sector within India’s broader economic growth strategy.
The facility is built as an integrated campus designed to handle diverse event formats. It features a 21,425 square metre convention centre equipped for plenary sessions and breakout meetings, a 9,430 square metre management training facility intended for professional and academic programs, and a 7,807 square metre exhibition hall capable of hosting large-scale trade shows.
At the heart of the complex lies a main convention hall with seating for up to 4,200 delegates. This scale allows Goa to compete for international summits, industry expos and policy forums that require substantial capacity and advanced infrastructure.
The presence of exhibition and training spaces alongside conference halls provides flexibility. Event organizers can conduct parallel sessions, networking programs, product showcases and workshops without shifting locations. This integrated design enhances operational efficiency and improves the overall delegate experience.
Moving Beyond Seasonal Tourism
For decades, Goa has been known primarily for its beaches, nightlife and leisure tourism. While that reputation remains intact, the addition of a major convention centre signals a deliberate effort to broaden the state’s economic base.
Business events and institutional gatherings generate consistent visitor inflow throughout the year. Unlike seasonal leisure travel, conferences are often scheduled well in advance and attract international professionals who contribute to hotel occupancy, local transport services, catering businesses and ancillary industries.
By investing in large-scale conference infrastructure, Goa is positioning itself to benefit from year-round economic activity. The state can now attract industries such as energy, technology, healthcare, education and trade, strengthening its resilience against fluctuations in traditional tourism patterns.
Collaborative Institutional Framework
The development of the centre involved coordinated efforts between national institutions and technical agencies. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation served as the project owner under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, while Engineers India Limited managed engineering supervision and execution oversight.
The Ministry of Tourism aligned the initiative with India’s long-term objective of strengthening its MICE capacity. Over recent years, the country has expanded its portfolio of convention centres to capture a greater share of international conferences and exhibitions. The addition of a high-capacity venue in Goa extends this network beyond established metropolitan hubs.
This collaborative framework underscores the role of infrastructure as a tool for economic diplomacy and regional development.
Design That Reflects Place and Purpose
Modern convention centres are expected to combine functionality with environmental awareness. The International Convention and Expo Centre Goa was conceived with attention to climate conditions and local character, ensuring that the structure complements its surroundings rather than overwhelming them.
The architectural approach balances scale with sensitivity. Spacious interiors, adaptable halls and exhibition areas are supported by a design that considers sustainability and long-term adaptability. The aim is to create not just an event venue but a civic setting that fosters dialogue, collaboration and exchange.
Such spaces play a vital role in shaping the atmosphere of international gatherings. Well-designed infrastructure can enhance interaction, encourage participation and create a sense of identity unique to the host destination.
Strategic Launch at a Global Energy Forum
Opening the centre during India Energy Week 2026 served as a strong statement of intent. The event attracts global policymakers, corporate leaders and innovators, making it an ideal platform to showcase the facility’s capabilities.
Successfully hosting an event of this magnitude reinforces confidence among international organizers considering Goa for future conferences. It also strengthens India’s broader ambition to host large-scale sectoral forums across multiple states.
A New Economic Horizon for Goa
The inauguration of the International Convention and Expo Centre Goa marks a transformative moment for the state. It reflects a move toward a more diversified economic model that integrates leisure tourism with business and institutional travel.
By combining advanced infrastructure with an established hospitality ecosystem, Goa now offers a compelling destination for global conferences. Delegates benefit from modern facilities while experiencing the region’s culture, cuisine and coastal environment.
As countries compete to attract high-value international events, the presence of world-class venues becomes increasingly important. The new centre enhances Goa’s competitiveness and reinforces India’s expanding footprint in the global conference and exhibition industry.
With its scale, functionality and strategic debut, the International Convention and Expo Centre Goa represents a forward-looking investment. It stands as a symbol of India’s growing confidence in hosting global dialogue and positions Goa at the intersection of tourism, infrastructure and international collaboration.
Dida Holdings and HBX Group have entered into a transformational seven-year alliance aimed at reshaping AI-powered global travel distribution and strengthening access to fast-growing outbound demand from China. The long-term agreement positions HBX as a preferred strategic pillar within Dida’s technology-driven ecosystem, aligning global accommodation supply with automated, machine-led booking models that are rapidly redefining how international travel is sourced, optimised and scaled.
The agreement places HBX Group in a preferred strategic position within Dida’s international distribution network. More than a supply arrangement, the partnership is structured as a long-term alignment of technology, infrastructure and market strategy, with a clear focus on connecting global hotel inventory to fast-evolving outbound demand from China and across Asia.
Responding to a Rapidly Automating Travel Ecosystem
Travel booking behaviour is no longer defined solely by human browsing. AI tools now analyse traveller preferences, interpret behavioural data and generate curated accommodation options within seconds. Digital agents are increasingly capable of handling comparison, pricing analysis and even booking confirmation.
In this environment, distribution platforms must evolve. Content must be structured in formats that machines can process instantly. Inventory must be integrated through robust APIs and capable of responding to real-time queries.
The collaboration between Dida and HBX is built around this reality. Dida, recognised for its strong presence in China’s B2B travel landscape, brings AI-native demand orchestration and multi-channel distribution capabilities. HBX Group contributes a wide-ranging global accommodation portfolio supported by established TravelTech infrastructure.
Together, the two companies aim to create a distribution model designed for machine-led engagement, ensuring that hotel content performs efficiently within automated booking pathways.
Strengthening Access to China’s Outbound Travel Flow
China remains one of the most digitally sophisticated travel markets worldwide. Consumers are accustomed to mobile ecosystems, integrated payment systems and AI-enhanced recommendation engines. As outbound travel continues to regain momentum, suppliers seeking access to this market must adapt to its digital-first nature.
Through the seven-year alliance, HBX Group’s inventory becomes deeply embedded within Dida’s AI-ready distribution architecture. This integration ensures that properties are visible within automated search and recommendation environments increasingly used by Chinese travellers.
Structured property data is central to this approach. Modern travellers are searching with specific intent, often looking for features such as wellness facilities, quiet surroundings, family-friendly amenities or sustainability credentials. AI systems rely on detailed, well-organised content to match these preferences accurately.
By enhancing attribute tagging, property descriptions and amenity depth, the partnership supports more precise alignment between supply and demand.
Expanding and Enriching Global Inventory
A key component of the agreement is strengthening Dida’s global supply offering. HBX Group provides access to a diverse range of properties, from premium hotels and branded chains to independent boutiques and experiential stays.
However, scale alone is not the objective. In automated booking ecosystems, depth of content can be as important as breadth of inventory. Rich property information improves visibility in AI-driven results and increases conversion potential.
The alliance focuses on elevating content quality, ensuring that accommodation listings include detailed attributes capable of supporting nuanced search queries. As travellers increasingly prioritise personalised experiences over standardised stays, the ability to surface relevant options quickly becomes a competitive advantage.
For outbound markets in Asia, where digital discovery plays a significant role in trip planning, enhanced inventory performance can directly influence booking outcomes.
Moving Beyond Conventional Contracting
Traditional distribution agreements often revolve around price negotiations and short-term commercial targets. In contrast, this seven-year framework signals a deeper integration strategy.
Technology synchronisation, product roadmap alignment and coordinated market execution form part of the long-term vision. By committing to sustained collaboration, both companies aim to ensure that distribution systems remain compatible as technology evolves.
The partnership also extends into fintech and payment infrastructure development. Cross-border travel transactions require adaptable systems capable of handling regional payment preferences, currency differences and security standards. Strengthening these capabilities can streamline booking flows and enhance trust among buyers and suppliers.
Additionally, cross-market technology exchange is expected to play a role. HBX can refine its localisation strategies for China’s unique digital ecosystem, while Dida can expand the international application of its AI-driven automation expertise.
Preparing for Agent Led Booking Models
One of the most significant shifts underway in travel commerce is the rise of agentic booking environments. In these models, AI systems do more than recommend options; they assess availability, compare pricing and execute bookings autonomously based on user-defined criteria.
For distribution platforms, this means prioritising data consistency, integration speed and system reliability. Human browsing may remain part of the journey, but machine-led decision-making is gaining influence.
By aligning infrastructure over a multi-year horizon, Dida and HBX are positioning themselves for this transition. Strong API connectivity, real-time data exchange and structured inventory management are foundational elements of their strategy.
Building Resilience for the Next Decade of Travel
International travel demand from China, Asia and other key markets is evolving in both scale and sophistication. Digital behaviour, personalisation expectations and automation are shaping how travellers engage with accommodation options.
The seven-year strategic alliance between Dida Holdings and HBX Group reflects an understanding that infrastructure readiness is becoming as critical as inventory access. By focusing on AI compatibility, content enhancement and cross-border integration, the partnership seeks to create a stable and scalable distribution environment capable of adapting to industry shifts.
In a travel landscape defined by rapid technological change, long-term structural alignment offers a pathway to sustained competitiveness. Through this agreement, both companies are investing not only in present-day performance but in a distribution ecosystem built to meet the demands of an increasingly automated and interconnected global travel market.
Laos Joins Russia, Thailand, China, Vietnam, Mongolia, Switzerland, South Korea, India and more as rail expansion and visa reform drive 4.5 million visitor growth, marking a clear shift in the country’s tourism trajectory. Strengthened cross-border connectivity through the Laos–China Railway, expanded digital visa access for over 150 countries, and targeted regional partnerships have combined to accelerate arrivals by 11 percent in 2025, positioning Laos as an increasingly accessible and competitive Southeast Asian destination.
Turning Geography into Opportunity
As a landlocked nation bordered by Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and China, Laos faces natural logistical constraints. Yet those same borders are being reframed as strategic gateways. The country maintains 103 checkpoints, including 33 international entry points and four international airports, forming a network designed to support steady cross-border movement.
Entry policies have been simplified in recent years. Bilateral visa exemptions apply to ASEAN countries, Russia and Mongolia, while several additional nations benefit from unilateral exemptions. An electronic visa platform now covers travelers from more than 150 countries, reducing paperwork and bringing Laos in line with digital entry systems seen across Southeast Asia.
By easing administrative processes while maintaining oversight, Laos is signaling that it is open for tourism but determined to manage growth responsibly.
Culture and Nature Driving the Narrative
Laos’ strongest tourism assets remain its cultural heritage and untouched landscapes. International recognition through UNESCO has amplified its visibility in global travel markets.
Luang Prabang stands as a symbol of preservation, where saffron-robed monks walk past centuries-old temples and colonial-era buildings line quiet streets. In the south, Vat Phou reflects ancient Khmer civilization, while the Plain of Jars continues to intrigue archaeologists and travelers alike with its mysterious stone structures scattered across rolling hills.
On the environmental front, Hin Nam No National Park achieved UNESCO natural heritage status in collaboration with Vietnam. This cross-border recognition highlights a growing commitment to conservation and positions Laos within the expanding global demand for eco-conscious travel.
Across the country, more than 2,400 attractions have been identified, with 897 currently open to visitors. Tourism infrastructure continues to grow, supported by over 3,400 accommodation establishments, close to 3,000 restaurants and more than 700 tour operators. These figures illustrate a maturing hospitality ecosystem that extends beyond headline attractions.
Building Experiences Around Communities
Laos is refining its tourism offer to focus on meaningful, experience-driven travel. Three core themes shape its development strategy: heritage exploration, adventure and nature-based tourism, and gastronomy rooted in local culture.
Food tourism has emerged as a distinctive strength. With more than 50 ethnic groups contributing to the national identity, culinary traditions vary widely across regions. Community-based initiatives are encouraging travelers to engage directly with local producers, helping distribute economic benefits to rural areas.
Adventure tourism is expanding steadily. Vang Vieng, once known primarily for backpacker activity, is repositioning itself as a broader outdoor hub. River excursions, trekking routes and hot air balloon rides now form part of a more diversified portfolio. A newly introduced three-kilometre glass bridge is expected to become a visual icon, drawing visitors seeking panoramic views and memorable experiences.
Visitor Growth Reflects Recovery Momentum
In 2025, Laos welcomed 4.5 million international visitors, representing an 11 percent increase compared to the previous year. Thailand, China, Vietnam and Korea accounted for the largest share of arrivals. A new market moved into the top five, replacing the United States, reflecting shifting travel patterns within Asia.
The rebound followed targeted promotional efforts under the “Visit Laos Year 2024” initiative. The campaign helped restore international awareness and reposition the destination as a culturally authentic and nature-oriented alternative within the region.
While the numbers remain modest compared to larger Southeast Asian destinations, the upward trajectory indicates renewed confidence in the market.
Connectivity Gaps and Infrastructure Response
Air connectivity remains one of the country’s key limitations. Laos does not currently operate direct long-haul routes to Europe or North America, and most air links focus on neighboring countries and selected East Asian cities. This restricts diversification into distant markets and can limit high-spending visitor segments.
However, the Laos–China Railway has reshaped the regional travel landscape. The high-speed line linking Kunming with Lao cities has enhanced accessibility, stimulated cross-border tourism and encouraged multi-destination itineraries. The rail corridor has strengthened ties with China while reinforcing Laos’ position within mainland Southeast Asia.
Beyond rail, infrastructure improvements are underway across emerging tourism zones. Upgrades to roads, lakefront areas and provincial destinations aim to extend visitor stays and raise overall service standards. Professional training and regulatory enforcement are being prioritized to ensure quality growth.
Raising Standards and Expanding Market Segments
Sustainability underpins the Tourism Development Plan 2026–2030. Laos is aligning more closely with ASEAN ecotourism frameworks and developing national guidelines for green hotels, responsible tour operations and the MICE segment.
The meetings and events market is gaining attention as a tool for year-round demand generation. Strengthening this segment is expected to support urban hospitality sectors and encourage investment in modern facilities.
Regional collaboration remains central to the country’s approach. Through ASEAN partnerships, Greater Mekong Subregion initiatives and cooperation among CLMV countries, Laos aims to integrate more effectively into cross-border travel circuits, offering travelers seamless regional experiences.
Looking Toward 2030
The roadmap to 2030 emphasizes infrastructure development, stronger governance, improved marketing and deeper engagement with the private sector. Preparations are underway for “Lao-China Tourism Year 2027,” marking 65 years of diplomatic relations and expected to further stimulate bilateral travel.
Emerging markets, including India, are being assessed for long-term potential. However, improved air links and tailored tourism products will be necessary to unlock these opportunities.
Laos is not chasing rapid expansion at any cost. Instead, it is building a tourism model centered on preservation, regional integration and steady, manageable growth. In a region dominated by mass tourism hubs, the country is carving out a distinct space as a destination that values heritage, community and sustainability while gradually strengthening its global connections.
The Maldives is now part of a growing network of destinations, including Japan, South Korea, Thailand, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, offering new travelers the opportunity to connect with local traditions and embrace eco-conscious practices. Through Marriott Bonvoy’s Good Travel initiative, the Maldives invites guests to experience authentic cultural engagements and sustainable travel experiences that leave a positive impact on both the environment and local communities.
By focusing on two key pillars—community and environment—Marriott’s program aims to foster deeper connections with the places and people guests encounter. This initiative aligns with a growing trend in tourism, where travelers are no longer seeking just leisure but also ways to engage responsibly and sustainably.
Purpose-Driven Travel for the Modern Explorer
As travelers increasingly look for ways to make their trips more impactful, Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy offers curated experiences that encourage guests to actively contribute to the local ecosystem and culture. Whether it’s planting trees in Fiji or learning about ancient culinary traditions in Osaka, these experiences provide an opportunity to go beyond the surface and create lasting memories that benefit both the traveler and the community.
The program is Marriott’s commitment to making travel a force for good—helping guests understand the deeper stories of the places they visit while encouraging sustainable practices that help protect local environments.
A Look at Some of the Unique Experiences
The Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy program offers a range of activities designed to immerse guests in the local culture and environment. Here’s a preview of some of the experiences available across Asia Pacific:
Maldives: Coral Restoration with Sheraton Full Moon Maldives Resort & Spa
Guests in the Maldives can participate in a coral restoration project, where they will plant coral fragments alongside a marine biologist. The project not only helps restore vital marine ecosystems but also provides employment for locals who create the coral frames on nearby Fulhadhoo island. Guests receive regular updates on the growth of their coral, creating a lasting connection to the destination.
Japan: Culinary Adventures in Osaka with W Osaka
Osaka, known as “Japan’s Kitchen,” offers guests an opportunity to explore its culinary heritage. Through a guided tour, visitors can learn about Osaka’s vibrant food culture, including a dashi-making workshop, where guests will discover sustainable cooking methods using local ingredients. The experience is designed to teach travelers about mindful consumption while allowing them to connect with the local food scene.
South Korea: Haenyeo Cultural Immersion at JW Marriott Jeju
On Jeju Island, guests can immerse themselves in the culture of the Haenyeo, the female divers who have long been integral to the island’s coastal heritage. Through meditation and breathing exercises led by a local Haenyeo, guests can connect with the traditions that have shaped the island’s coastal culture. The experience also includes a cooking class that celebrates Jeju’s culinary history using locally sourced ingredients.
Thailand: Agricultural Traditions at JW Marriott Khao Lak
In Thailand, guests can learn about traditional agricultural practices through nipa palm planting, an activity that helps restore local ecosystems. The experience also includes buffalo bathing, an immersive cultural activity that gives guests a chance to participate in local traditions while learning about the ecological significance of nipa palms.
India: Warli Art Experience at Courtyard by Marriott Bhopal
Guests in India can explore Warli art, a tribal art form that connects the community with nature. The experience at Courtyard by Marriott Bhopal includes a hands-on painting session with local artisans, where guests learn about the symbolism and cultural significance of the art form. This experience not only teaches guests about Indian heritage but also supports local artisans by creating income opportunities.
Indonesia: Balinese Cultural Exploration at Sthala, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Bali offers an immersive experience into the Balinese way of life. Guests at Sthala, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel can live like a local by visiting traditional Balinese homes and learning about the island’s spiritual and cultural traditions. The experience fosters a deeper understanding of Bali’s philosophy of harmony between people, nature, and the divine.
Vietnam: Soap-Making for a Cause at Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon
At Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon, guests can participate in a soap-making workshop that transforms used soap into new bars. The proceeds from the workshop support Operation Smile, which helps children with facial deformities. This experience offers guests the chance to contribute to a charitable cause while learning about the importance of sustainable practices.
Malaysia: Sustainable Mushroom Growing at W Kuala Lumpur
In Kuala Lumpur, guests can experience sustainable farming practices by learning how to grow mushrooms at the hotel’s Shroom Lab. The hands-on experience allows guests to harvest their own produce and then prepare dishes with it, promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices while connecting with local food production.
Making Travel a Force for Good
The Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy program is not just about creating memorable vacations—it’s about making a positive impact on both the traveler and the destination. Each experience under the program is designed to empower guests to connect more deeply with the local culture, support environmental conservation, and contribute to community development.
In a time when travelers are seeking more from their journeys, Marriott’s initiative provides the perfect platform to explore the world with purpose. By offering immersive, community-driven activities, Marriott ensures that every stay has the potential to leave a lasting, positive legacy.
Through Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy, travelers have the unique opportunity to turn their trips into a force for good—creating meaningful connections and contributing to the preservation and enrichment of the places they visit. Whether it’s restoring coral reefs, learning about sustainable farming, or engaging with local artisans, each experience offers an opportunity to travel intentionally and make a real difference.
Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Washington, DC, are preparing to make America’s 250th anniversary an unforgettable experience. With a range of exclusive luxury stays, unique cultural events, and front-row access to some of the nation’s most iconic celebrations, these hotels are offering once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the Semiquincentennial festivities. From exclusive packages that provide breathtaking views of the National Fireworks to curated experiences celebrating America’s rich history, Marriott Bonvoy ensures a truly exceptional way to mark this historic milestone in the heart of the nation’s capital.
Monumental Celebrations: Luxury Hotel Offers in Washington DC
To honor America’s 250th birthday, Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Washington, DC, are launching their Monumental Celebrations offer. Available from January 26 through December 30, 2026, the offer provides up to 15% off stays of two nights or more, along with complimentary Wi-Fi. This promotion is ideal for those who want to stay close to the city’s most iconic landmarks while enjoying the comfort and luxury that Marriott Bonvoy properties offer.
Guests can choose from a range of participating hotels, including the JW Marriott Washington, DC; Westin DC Downtown; The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection; Marriott Marquis Washington, DC; Marriott Metro Center; and Residence Inn Washington, DC Downtown. These hotels are strategically located near major attractions like the National Mall, the Smithsonian Museums, and other historic sites, making it easy for travelers to explore the nation’s capital during this landmark year. The Monumental Celebrations offer gives visitors the chance to customize their trip, whether they are interested in exploring American history, enjoying family-friendly activities, or celebrating the Fourth of July in style.
New Attractions in DC for 2026: A Year of Cultural Enhancements
Along with the Semiquincentennial festivities, 2026 will be a year of significant cultural enhancements in Washington, DC. Among the highly anticipated new attractions are the museum beneath the Lincoln Memorial and the National Geographic Museum of Exploration, both set to open in time for the anniversary. The National Air and Space Museum will also expand, offering new exhibits that highlight America’s achievements in aviation and space exploration.
Other updates include the renovation of the African American Civil War Memorial Museum, the expansion of George Washington’s Mount Vernon, and improvements to Dulles International Airport’s concourse. The city will also mark milestone anniversaries, including the 50th anniversary of go-go music, the 50th anniversary of the National Air and Space Museum, and the 10th anniversary of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which will host an exciting outdoor block party to bring visitors and locals together for a shared celebration.
Exclusive Independence Day Packages: A VIP Experience at Marriott Bonvoy Hotels
For those seeking the most exclusive Independence Day experience, Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Washington, DC, are offering a range of luxury packages for America’s 250th birthday. At JW Marriott Washington, DC, the Stars & Suites: A 250th Celebration package offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to enjoy private access to the hotel’s 12th-floor terrace with one of the best views of the National Fireworks. Available for $250,000, this two-night package includes three luxury suites, six balcony rooms, and exclusive access to the terrace for up to 250 guests, along with a $100,000 food and beverage credit.
In addition to the terrace access, the package also includes a $20,000 allowance for décor and entertainment, making it perfect for those who want to host a grand celebration. Marriott’s event team will work with guests to create a personalized experience that celebrates the nation’s history in grand style.
For a more intimate and narrative-driven experience, Westin DC Downtown offers the Stars, Stripes & Stories: America 250 Suite Experience. Priced at $25,000, this package includes a two-night stay in two Presidential Suites, a private Monuments by Moonlight tour, and a curated cocktail kit inspired by 18th-century recipes. Guests will also enjoy a two-hour private terrace cocktail reception, making it a perfect way to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in a more relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere.
Culinary Delights: A Taste of America’s History
The culinary scene in Washington, DC, will also be transformed for the Semiquincentennial, with Marriott Bonvoy hotels offering special menus inspired by America’s early cuisine. At Root & Vine in the Westin DC Downtown, the menu reimagines classic early American dishes such as smoked pork belly, pimento cheese croquettes, and spiced candied pecans. The restaurant will also offer a modern version of George Washington’s favorite drink, Cherry Bounce, made with bourbon, fresh lemon, and cherry liqueur.
At Edgar Bar + Kitchen in The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection, guests can enjoy three special cocktails inspired by America’s spirit of exploration: Liberty House Punch, Liberty Cask & Flame, and Wayfinder’s Mark. At Spotted Zebra in the Marriott Metro Center, the menu will feature red, white, and blue-inspired dishes like the Bleu Double Burger, paired with flights of American wines from renowned U.S. winemakers. These offerings provide a perfect complement to the celebrations, allowing guests to indulge in the flavors that shaped early American culture.
Washington DC: The Ideal Destination for America’s 250th Anniversary
Washington, DC, is the perfect place to commemorate America’s 250th birthday. The city will be filled with special events, new cultural experiences, and landmark celebrations, making it an exciting time to visit. Marriott Bonvoy hotels are offering unique packages that allow visitors to be part of this historic moment in luxury. Whether it’s enjoying front-row seats to the National Fireworks or indulging in gourmet culinary experiences, Washington, DC, promises an unforgettable experience for those celebrating the nation’s milestone.
Conclusion: A Summer to Remember in Washington DC
Washington, DC, will be the ultimate destination to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, and Marriott Bonvoy hotels offer the perfect base for this once-in-a-lifetime event. With exclusive packages, luxury accommodations, and access to the nation’s most iconic landmarks, the capital city is ready to welcome visitors for a summer of historical significance, celebration, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re in town for the July 4th fireworks or exploring the nation’s new cultural offerings, Washington, DC, provides the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary 250th anniversary experience.
MSC Cruises has announced a last-minute alteration to the itinerary of its MSC Splendida due to unfavorable weather conditions in the Western Mediterranean. As a result, the ship’s planned stop in La Goulette, Tunisia, has been canceled, with Palma de Mallorca, Spain, now taking its place on February 13, 2026.
This adjustment offers passengers the chance to explore the beautiful Balearic island of Mallorca, renowned for its history, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Instead of a sea day, guests will enjoy a full day in Palma de Mallorca, making the most of the new itinerary despite the weather disruptions.
Why the Change Was Made
Weather in the Mediterranean can be unpredictable, particularly during the winter months. Rough seas, strong winds, or unsafe docking conditions can make it difficult for cruise ships to safely enter certain ports. In this case, MSC Cruises decided to cancel the La Goulette stop in Tunisia to ensure the safety and comfort of its passengers.
This was an unfortunate but necessary decision, as MSC Cruises put guest safety at the forefront. Although the itinerary change may have come as a surprise, it opens up a new opportunity for passengers to visit Palma de Mallorca, a vibrant city with much to offer.
Palma de Mallorca: A Cultural Gem
Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, is a popular destination for cruise ships, and for good reason. With its rich history and picturesque landscapes, it’s a perfect addition to the MSC Splendida’s itinerary. The city is home to La Seu Cathedral, an awe-inspiring Gothic structure that dominates the city’s skyline, as well as the charming Bellver Castle, which offers panoramic views of Palma and the surrounding areas.
Palma is also known for its Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques, cafés, and historical landmarks. Visitors can stroll through Placa Major, one of the city’s bustling squares, or visit the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, a stunning historic palace overlooking the harbor. Whether it’s exploring the city’s vibrant art scene or lounging on one of its many beautiful beaches, Palma has something to offer every type of traveler.
For those with a keen interest in food, Palma de Mallorca is also home to a variety of restaurants offering delicious Mediterranean cuisine, including fresh seafood, tapas, and local Mallorcan specialties. The island’s culinary scene is a perfect reflection of its rich cultural heritage, and visitors will be able to experience this firsthand.
MSC’s Commitment to Guest Satisfaction
MSC Cruises has reassured guests that any shore excursions that were previously booked for La Goulette will be refunded to their onboard accounts. The company’s proactive response ensures that passengers won’t feel financially affected by the change. To further enhance the experience for guests, MSC Cruises is offering new shore excursions for Palma de Mallorca, which will be available for booking while onboard.
This allows passengers to seamlessly transition from one planned experience to another, ensuring that their cruise remains exciting and fulfilling. The company’s quick response and adaptability are clear indicators of its commitment to ensuring guest satisfaction, even when faced with unpredictable situations.
MSC Splendida’s Winter Mediterranean Season
The MSC Splendida, which recently resumed service following a routine drydock at the Palumbo Malta Shipyard, continues to offer a luxurious cruise experience throughout the Western Mediterranean. The 2009-built ship is currently offering seven-night cruises that stop at ports in Spain, Italy, France, and Tunisia.
This winter season marks the MSC Splendida’s continued exploration of the Mediterranean, a region known for its stunning coastline, ancient history, and cultural treasures. The ship’s first stop after the weather disruption will be in Palma de Mallorca, followed by visits to other iconic Mediterranean ports. Guests aboard the MSC Splendida will be treated to luxury accommodations, gourmet dining options, and a range of onboard entertainment, all while cruising through some of the most desirable destinations in Europe.
Looking Ahead: The Ship’s Mediterranean Journey Continues
MSC Splendida will continue its winter season through late April 2026. After that, the vessel will transition to a new itinerary for the remainder of the year. Passengers can look forward to exploring a variety of Mediterranean destinations, including cities like Barcelona, Rome, and Genoa, as well as relaxing sea days and vibrant excursions.
For those planning future cruises with MSC Cruises, there are many exciting options to choose from. The Mediterranean remains a top choice for many travelers seeking a combination of relaxation, culture, and adventure. Whether it’s the historic charm of Palma de Mallorca, the art and culture of Barcelona, or the beautiful beaches of Italy, MSC Cruises offers an itinerary for every type of traveler.
MSC Cruises’ Adaptability and Guest-Centered Service
MSC Cruises has long been known for its flexibility and commitment to delivering a seamless cruise experience. While the change to the MSC Splendida’s itinerary was due to circumstances beyond the cruise line’s control, the company’s quick response demonstrates its focus on delivering exceptional service, even in the face of unexpected challenges.
The ability to make swift, thoughtful decisions is a hallmark of MSC Cruises, and it ensures that guests continue to enjoy their vacations, no matter what disruptions may arise. The addition of Palma de Mallorca to the MSC Splendida’s itinerary only adds to the appeal of the Mediterranean cruise experience.
As the MSC Splendida sails on, passengers can rest assured that MSC Cruises will continue to offer outstanding service, enriching shore excursions, and unforgettable experiences as part of its commitment to providing the best in Mediterranean cruising.
Azamara Cruises is set to elevate its 2027 offerings with the introduction of the Alaska Cruisetours collection, promising guests a transformative journey through the wild beauty of Alaska and the stunning Canadian Rockies. By merging unforgettable Alaskan cruises with guided, land-based explorations across Alaska and Western Canada, Azamara is poised to provide a seamless and deeply immersive travel experience for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
A Comprehensive Travel Experience: Beyond the Coastline
The 2027 Alaska Cruisetours collection marks a significant expansion of Azamara’s signature Destination Immersion® philosophy, which focuses on delivering authentic, enriching travel experiences that allow guests to truly connect with the destinations they visit. This collection promises not just a cruise along Alaska’s scenic coast but also an exploration of the region’s spectacular inland landscapes and vibrant cultural history.
With a range of itineraries combining Azamara’s popular 10- and 11-night Alaska cruises with four, five, and six-night land-based programs, travelers will be immersed in both the natural wonders of Alaska and the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies. These exclusive itineraries reflect Azamara’s commitment to offering tailored, one-of-a-kind travel experiences that go far beyond the traditional cruise.
Uncover the Best of Alaska and Canada With These Exclusive Cruisetour Highlights
Azamara’s 2027 Alaska Cruisetours offer diverse options that cater to different travel styles, whether you prefer a fast-paced adventure or a more relaxed, nature-focused escape. Below are some of the most sought-after itineraries:
1. Alaska Explorer
The Alaska Explorer program provides a four-night pre- or post-cruise option designed to delve deep into Alaska’s wild interior. This tour includes:
Chena River: Guests will step into Alaska’s gold rush history, where they can try their hand at gold panning and learn about the region’s mining past.
Deluxe Dome Railcar: A premium railcar experience offering panoramic views of Alaska’s wilderness, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Denali National Park: Known for its vast landscapes and wildlife, this park is home to Mount Denali, North America’s highest peak, and offers guests a chance to explore one of the most remote and beautiful corners of the planet.
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience the heart of Alaska and its rugged beauty.
2. Canadian Rockies Adventure
The Canadian Rockies tour is a five-night journey designed for those who want to explore the world-renowned mountains and scenic landscapes of Western Canada. Highlights include a Rocky Mountaineer train ride through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, where guests can marvel at towering peaks, pristine lakes, and charming mountain villages. This tour offers a perfect way to cap off an Alaskan cruise, allowing travelers to seamlessly transition from the Alaskan wilderness to the splendor of the Canadian Rockies.
3. Banff, Lake Louise & Whistler
The Banff, Lake Louise & Whistler six-night pre-cruise option is perfect for travelers who wish to explore Canada’s most iconic destinations. The program takes guests from Calgary to Vancouver, stopping at some of the country’s most celebrated sites, including:
Banff and Lake Louise: Two of the world’s most picturesque resort towns, known for their stunning mountain views and crystal-clear lakes.
Bear Viewing in Land Rovers: Travelers can experience the Canadian wilderness up close with an exhilarating Land Rover tour, offering opportunities to view wildlife in its natural habitat.
This tour combines nature, adventure, and luxury in a way that showcases the very best of Canada’s mountain regions.
Expanding the Horizons: Japan and Alaska Transpacific Sailings
For those looking to extend their journey even further, Azamara offers an exciting opportunity to combine transpacific sailings from Northern Japan to Alaska. This option allows guests to immerse themselves in Japan’s rich culture before heading across the Pacific to Alaska and the Canadian Rockies. This added element provides a seamless travel experience where guests can explore the vibrant cities and landscapes of Japan before continuing their adventure into Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness.
Destination Immersion®: Connecting with the Heart of the Destination
Azamara’s Destination Immersion® philosophy continues to be the backbone of its 2027 Alaska Cruisetours. The philosophy focuses on providing travelers with authentic experiences that allow them to truly connect with the places they visit. With these new itineraries, guests can go beyond traditional sightseeing and gain a deeper understanding of local cultures, environments, and histories.
Azamara has also revitalized its Azamara Ashore land programs, designed to offer travelers unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences that give them the opportunity to engage with local communities in meaningful ways.
Booking the 2027 Alaska Cruisetours: Your Adventure Awaits
The 2027 Alaska Cruisetours collection is now open for booking, and travelers are encouraged to secure their spots on these exclusive itineraries. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous getaway or a more leisurely, nature-focused retreat, Azamara offers the perfect blend of cruise and land-based exploration.
Conclusion: A Journey Like No Other
Azamara Cruises’ 2027 Alaska Cruisetours collection sets a new standard in immersive travel. By pairing Alaskan cruises with in-depth land tours through Alaska’s interior and the Canadian Rockies, Azamara is offering travelers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the best of both worlds. With its emphasis on authenticity and destination immersion, this collection promises to create unforgettable memories for those seeking adventure, culture, and the beauty of nature.
Holland America Line is making significant changes to its South America and Antarctica offerings for the 2027–28 season, increasing capacity and providing guests with a more luxurious and expansive experience. The cruise line has announced that the Nieuw Amsterdam will replace the Oosterdam starting in the fall of 2027, ushering in a new era of exploration to these breathtaking destinations.
Nieuw Amsterdam: Redefining South America and Antarctica Exploration
The Nieuw Amsterdam will take the lead for Holland America Line’s South America and Antarctica itineraries in the 2027–28 season, bringing a fresh wave of luxury and sophistication. Known for its elegant design and world-class amenities, this ship will offer travelers an elevated cruising experience while exploring some of the most remote and stunning corners of the world.
Replacing the Oosterdam, the Nieuw Amsterdam brings more space and comfort, ensuring that guests can fully unwind while exploring iconic destinations. The ship will feature enhanced dining options, expansive staterooms, and a variety of onboard activities, making it the ideal vessel for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Passengers can expect to be treated to world-class service while cruising through some of the most pristine and captivating regions on Earth.
South America: A Rich Tapestry of Culture and Nature
The 2027–28 itineraries will take guests on unforgettable journeys through South America, offering a mix of vibrant cities and majestic landscapes. From the cosmopolitan streets of Buenos Aires to the natural beauty of Patagonia, each voyage promises to showcase the region’s rich diversity.
Travelers will have the opportunity to explore a blend of cultural hubs and awe-inspiring natural wonders, with visits to Rio de Janeiro, Santiago, and Ushuaia, among others. Whether walking through the colorful streets of South America’s iconic cities or cruising along its rugged coastline, guests will experience a wide range of landscapes that highlight the region’s unique charm.
These South American itineraries will be designed to offer both relaxation and adventure. Holland America’s new flagship vessel will ensure that guests enjoy more space, better onboard amenities, and a greater sense of comfort as they make their way through some of the most spectacular areas in South America.
Antarctica: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Expedition
One of the standout offerings of the 2027–28 season is the exclusive four-day Antarctic Experience. This itinerary will offer an unparalleled chance to explore the awe-inspiring wilderness of Antarctica, with its massive glaciers, towering icebergs, and rare wildlife. It’s an opportunity to set foot on the continent’s pristine shores and experience the frozen landscapes up close.
Guests will journey through the frozen wilderness with expert guides who will provide insights into the region’s delicate ecosystem and history. Onboard the Nieuw Amsterdam, travelers will enjoy luxurious amenities and educational experiences that complement the adventure of exploring one of the most remote places on Earth.
The Antarctic Experience promises to be an extraordinary voyage, giving guests an intimate look at the ice-covered continent. Whether observing penguins in their natural habitat or marveling at the immense icebergs, this journey will leave lasting memories.
Booking Opens February 24
The 2027–2028 South America and Antarctica itineraries, including the Antarctic Experience, will be available for booking beginning February 24. Travelers eager to secure their spot for what promises to be an incredible cruise season should plan to book early, as these voyages are expected to fill up quickly due to high demand.
This new season will bring an expanded array of itineraries, offering guests a chance to experience South America and Antarctica in unparalleled comfort and style. With the Nieuw Amsterdam leading the way, passengers can expect a seamless blend of luxury and exploration.
Why Choose Holland America Line for Your Cruise?
Holland America Line has long been known for delivering exceptional cruising experiences, and the addition of the Nieuw Amsterdam for the 2027–28 season further solidifies its commitment to offering high-end travel. From spacious cabins and fine dining to expertly curated shore excursions and world-class entertainment, Holland America ensures that every aspect of the cruise is designed to enhance the guest experience.
The Nieuw Amsterdam will be equipped with all the amenities you would expect from a luxury ship, from a range of dining options and entertainment venues to relaxing spaces for unwinding after a day of exploration. This ship will cater to all types of travelers, whether you are seeking adventure in Antarctica or immersing yourself in the vibrant cultures of South America.
Your Adventure Awaits
The Nieuw Amsterdam will provide the ultimate platform for exploring some of the world’s most remarkable destinations. With its luxurious design and unparalleled service, this ship offers the perfect setting for a journey of a lifetime.
Be part of the unforgettable 2027–28 South America and Antarctica season. Book your cruise starting February 24 and embark on an extraordinary adventure with Holland America Line. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of Antarctica or soaking up the culture of South America, this season promises a journey filled with memories that will last a lifetime.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises has achieved a remarkable milestone in January 2026, reporting an outstanding 20% increase in global bookings compared to the same month in 2025. This surge highlights the growing demand for ultra-luxury cruises and reflects the brand’s ability to attract luxury travellers seeking unforgettable, all-inclusive experiences.
Surge in Demand for Luxury Cruise Experiences
The spike in bookings signals a continued trend towards luxury travel, with Regent’s exceptional portfolio of global destinations at the forefront. The cruise line’s diverse array of itineraries has proven to be an attractive option for those looking to indulge in premium vacations that offer both adventure and relaxation. This demand further affirms Regent’s position as a leader in the luxury cruise industry, providing unparalleled experiences that attract those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Regent’s success is not just based on the destinations it offers but also on the elevated level of service and inclusivity that defines the brand. With no detail left overlooked, luxury travellers are opting for Regent’s cruises to enjoy expansive suites, gourmet dining, and seamless itineraries. As a result, the cruise line continues to see a steady increase in demand across its entire portfolio.
Ultra-Luxury Cruises Appeal to a Growing Market
The growing interest in ultra-luxury cruising is further evidenced by the rise in bookings. Today’s luxury travellers are prioritizing immersive experiences that offer more than just a typical vacation. They are seeking destinations that go beyond the ordinary, and Regent continues to deliver with exclusive, carefully curated itineraries that allow guests to immerse themselves in local cultures, explore scenic destinations, and indulge in top-tier accommodations.
The allure of a completely all-inclusive experience is another key factor driving Regent’s growth. From flights to shore excursions, and everything in between, Regent’s fully integrated offerings provide unparalleled convenience and comfort. This all-encompassing luxury experience continues to be a major draw for those seeking indulgence without compromise.
The Rise of Extended Cruises
An emerging trend from January’s booking data reveals a growing interest in extended itineraries, particularly those lasting 15 days or more. This shift suggests that luxury travellers are increasingly opting for longer voyages, allowing them to explore multiple destinations at a more leisurely pace. Extended cruises offer a deeper connection with the regions being visited and provide ample time for passengers to fully embrace the beauty, history, and culture of each port.
For Regent, this growing preference for longer cruises underscores a shift towards more profound travel experiences. The added time on board and at each destination allows passengers to delve into the details of each stop, making it a more enriching experience that short-term vacations cannot match.
Demand for Pacific and South American Itineraries Soars
Among the most popular destinations are Regent’s itineraries through the Pacific and South America, both of which have shown remarkable growth. These regions have captured the attention of luxury cruisers, eager to explore their natural beauty, unique landscapes, and rich cultures. The South American continent, known for its vibrant cities, stunning coastlines, and ancient ruins, has become a particularly sought-after region. Similarly, the Pacific, with its serene islands and diverse cultures, has seen increased interest as travellers look to escape to tranquil, far-flung destinations.
In particular, the blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion offered by these regions has become a key selling point for discerning travellers looking to explore the world beyond more traditional destinations.
A Growing Trend of Multi-Cruise Bookings
Another noteworthy trend is the increasing popularity of multi-cruise bookings. A growing number of guests are combining multiple itineraries into a single extended journey, seeking to experience more destinations without interruption. This growing trend is a reflection of the flexibility and variety Regent provides, with guests able to enjoy the same high level of luxury and service across different voyages.
By booking multiple cruises, passengers can explore several unique regions, blending the best of different cultures, landscapes, and activities into one seamless travel experience. This growing demand for extended journeys further solidifies Regent’s reputation for providing versatile, high-value luxury cruises.
Looking to the Future: A Bright Outlook for Regent Seven Seas Cruises
With a strong start to 2026 and sustained growth in bookings, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is poised for continued success in the luxury cruise market. As the demand for ultra-luxury cruising continues to rise, the company’s focus on immersive, all-inclusive travel experiences ensures it remains at the forefront of this competitive industry.
Looking ahead, Regent will likely continue to expand its range of destinations, providing even more opportunities for luxury travellers to experience the world in style. The demand for longer itineraries, particularly in regions such as the Pacific and South America, will likely continue to rise, as guests seek more enriching travel experiences.
For Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the future is filled with exciting possibilities as the brand continues to meet the evolving needs of luxury travellers. Whether it’s through new itineraries, enhanced onboard experiences, or the opportunity for deeper cultural immersion, Regent will continue to set the standard for ultra-luxury cruising in 2026 and beyond.
Amsterdam, with its iconic canals, art-filled museums, and historic architecture, has long been a favorite destination for travellers worldwide. However, the increasing number of tourists arriving each year is creating challenges for the city. The city’s historic charm is being threatened by overcrowding, environmental degradation, and pressure on local residents. With tourism continuing to rise, the question is: How can Amsterdam maintain its global appeal without compromising its livability and cultural integrity? One promising solution gaining traction is managed tourism, particularly through smaller river cruises.
Addressing the Growing Strain of Tourism
Amsterdam has become one of the most visited cities in Europe, attracting millions of tourists annually. While tourism is a significant economic driver, the surge in visitors, particularly those arriving by air and sea, has created new challenges. The influx of tourists during peak times has led to overcrowding at popular attractions, creating uncomfortable conditions for both locals and tourists.
In response to these issues, Amsterdam has begun exploring ways to manage tourism in a more sustainable way. Managed tourism focuses on distributing tourist flows more evenly throughout the city, thereby easing congestion and spreading the benefits of tourism to less-visited areas. This approach aims to balance the needs of visitors and residents while preserving the city’s unique character and cultural heritage.
River Cruises: A Sustainable Solution for Amsterdam
Unlike the massive cruise ships that dominate major ports, river cruises are smaller, more intimate vessels that typically carry around 200 passengers. This size makes them an ideal solution for reducing the strain on Amsterdam’s infrastructure. River cruises can visit a variety of locations throughout the city, allowing tourists to explore both famous landmarks and lesser-known neighbourhoods. By avoiding the overcrowded city center, river cruises help to relieve pressure on Amsterdam’s most popular attractions, encouraging visitors to discover new and diverse areas of the city.
Another key benefit of river cruises is that these smaller vessels can dock directly in Amsterdam’s city center, offering easy access to top tourist spots without the need for bus transfers. This eliminates the pollution and traffic congestion typically associated with large-scale transport methods, making river cruises an environmentally friendly choice for sustainable tourism.
Economic Benefits of River Cruises
While river cruises may represent a smaller portion of Amsterdam’s tourism volume, their economic impact is significant. River cruises contribute an estimated €221 million annually to the local economy, generating over 365,000 hotel nights and supporting nearly 2,000 jobs. This contribution is vital in a city that relies heavily on tourism for its economic health.
Furthermore, river cruises support a broader range of businesses across the city. With visitors being spread out into various neighbourhoods, smaller and less-visited areas of Amsterdam benefit from the influx of tourists, helping local shops, cafes, and attractions thrive. This approach reduces the reliance on overburdened tourist hotspots and helps to build a more resilient and diverse local economy.
Preserving Amsterdam’s Cultural Integrity
Amsterdam’s rich cultural heritage is one of the main reasons why visitors flock to the city. However, the rise in tourism has led to concerns about preserving the authenticity of the city’s historic sites. The introduction of managed tourism, with a focus on smaller river cruises, offers a solution that enables Amsterdam to continue attracting visitors without compromising its cultural identity.
By limiting the number of visitors to key attractions and spreading tourist activity across a wider area, Amsterdam can reduce the negative effects of mass tourism, such as overcrowding and environmental degradation. River cruises help to preserve the integrity of the city’s historical landmarks by ensuring that large numbers of tourists are not concentrated in one location at the same time.
A Vision for the Future of Amsterdam
As cities around the world face similar tourism-related challenges, Amsterdam’s focus on managed tourism provides a model for balancing growth with sustainability. The city can continue to attract tourists and support its economy while preserving its unique cultural heritage and quality of life for its residents. River cruises are part of this solution, offering a more sustainable and responsible form of tourism that benefits everyone.
By continuing to promote the benefits of managed tourism, Amsterdam can become a leader in sustainable tourism practices. Through careful planning and collaboration with tourism operators and local stakeholders, the city can ensure that tourism remains a positive force for both the local community and visitors. As the world continues to face the pressures of overtourism, Amsterdam’s approach offers a roadmap for other cities to follow in creating a more balanced and sustainable tourism model.
US joins Canada, Argentina, Mexico, France, Portugal, Germany, and more as Carnival 2026 is set to skyrocket Brazil, with over sixty million revelers expected, marking a 22% increase in participation from last year. This year’s Carnival, starting on February 13, 2026, in Rio de Janeiro and cities across Brazil, promises to boost the nation’s tourism and economic growth, attracting millions of international and domestic visitors, and injecting billions into Brazil’s local economy.
From the Sambadrome of Rio de Janeiro to the heart of São Paulo and the beaches of Salvador, Carnival 2026 will be an event of monumental proportions. The carnival’s influence, however, extends far beyond the streets, with its ability to drive billions in economic revenue, fuel job creation, and enhance Brazil’s image as a global tourism leader.
Over Sixty Million Revelers: Brazil’s Carnival Phenomenon
Brazil’s Carnival is far more than just a celebration—it’s the heartbeat of the nation, pulsing with energy that attracts millions from all over the globe. The country’s Carnival celebrations in 2026 will draw a staggering 65 million revelers, and these figures are not only a testament to the event’s popularity but also reflect a transformative shift in global tourism patterns. The 22% growth in reveler participation will see Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Salvador, and Belo Horizonte leading the charge, welcoming tourists from all corners of the world. The global allure of Brazil’s Carnival makes it a symbol of cultural unity that transcends borders and speaks to the hearts of millions.
International markets, including the United States, Canada, Argentina, Mexico, and Germany, have shown an increased interest in attending the event, underlining the growing global demand for Brazilian Carnival experiences. With more tourists attending each year, Carnival continues to grow its economic footprint, driving not just local economies but global tourism trends as well.
The Economic Surge: Rio Carnival’s Billion-Dollar Impact
In Rio de Janeiro, where the Carnival is the most anticipated event of the year, the city is preparing for an extraordinary boost to its local economy. It is expected that the Sambadrome alone will generate an astounding R$ 5.7 billion (USD 1 billion) in revenue, as both local and international tourists flock to the city for the parade of 462 street blocos and the stunning samba performances. The city anticipates welcoming 8 million tourists to its streets, each contributing to an economic wave that will ripple through its hospitality, retail, and entertainment industries.
Rio’s hotel occupancy will be at an all-time high, with accommodations running at 98% full capacity. From luxury hotels to local guesthouses, businesses throughout the city will experience the financial windfall of Carnival’s economic engine. International airline bookings are also expected to surge by 9%, as global interest in attending Rio Carnival continues to grow. The global spotlight on Rio de Janeiro during Carnival is not just a cultural phenomenon—it is a game-changer for the city’s economy.
Expanding International Appeal: US, Latin America, and Beyond
This year’s Rio Carnival will see the United States, Chile, and Argentina lead the charge in international tourist arrivals. Flight bookings from the United States are up by 9%, signaling the growing importance of Carnival in global travel plans. Similarly, Latin American countries like Chile have shown a 41% increase in demand for flights to Brazil, marking a significant uptick in regional participation. As international tourism trends continue to evolve, Brazil and Rio Carnival are emerging as go-to travel destinations, not just for regional tourists, but for travelers from across the globe.
Tourism demand is rising beyond the Americas too. European markets are contributing significantly to the increased influx of visitors, showing Brazil’s Carnival is solidifying its position as a global event that attracts people from 160 countries.
Carnival’s National Economic Power: A Nationwide Impact
While Rio de Janeiro is the focal point of Brazil’s Carnival, other cities are also reaping the economic rewards of the celebrations. In Salvador, a 43% growth in international flight bookings is expected, with 1.2 million tourists anticipated to join the festivities. The economic impact for Salvador is set to surpass R$ 2.6 billion (USD 480 million), with visitors flocking to the streets for the iconic baiana costumes and Afro-Brazilian rhythms.
Meanwhile, São Paulo is bracing for over 16 million revelers, including participants in 600 blocos throughout the city. The diversity of São Paulo’s Carnival offerings makes it an unmissable destination for anyone seeking a unique Carnival experience, all while contributing millions to the local economy. Even cities in the northeast like Recife and Olinda, with their own regional Carnival traditions, will witness millions of revelers descending upon their streets, spreading the wealth of Carnival throughout Brazil.
In addition to the immediate economic boom, Carnival’s influence stretches far beyond the week-long celebration. The festival is an essential driver of long-term tourism growth, with Brazil seeing an exceptional 37% increase in international tourist arrivals in 2025—the highest growth rate in the world, according to the UNWTO. As Brazil’s tourism infrastructure continues to evolve and its global recognition grows, Carnival will remain the backbone of Brazil’s tourism strategy, continuously attracting international visitors year after year.
Beyond its economic impact, Carnival plays a critical role in creating jobs and stimulating local businesses. From street vendors to performers, it creates thousands of temporary jobs, enriching Brazil’s communities, and providing sustainable economic growth across the country.
Carnival 2026: A Global Cultural Celebration
Carnival in Brazil is more than a festival; it’s a celebration of Brazil’s soul. From the samba beats of Rio to the frevo rhythms of Recife, the festival offers a unique cultural experience that appeals to people from all walks of life. The festival transcends borders, fostering unity and global appreciation for Brazil’s rich cultural diversity.
As Marcelo Freixo, president of Embratur, states, Carnival is not only about fun and celebration—it is a celebration of Brazil’s cultural heritage that draws attention from 160 countries. The event represents Brazil’s identity, showcasing the country’s vast cultural landscapes, from its music and dance to its food and local traditions.
Nearest Airports Serving Rio de Janeiro, Ideal For Travelers Attending Carnival 2026:
1. Rio de Janeiro–Galeão–Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG) — The main international gateway to Rio, handling flights from North America, Europe, Latin America, and beyond. It’s located about 20 km (12 miles) north of the city centre and serves long‑haul international and many domestic flights.
2. Santos Dumont Airport (SDU) — The closest airport to downtown Rio de Janeiro, just around 1–2 km from central areas. It primarily serves domestic flights and short‑haul connections, offering convenient access to the city’s main attractions.
3. Jacarepaguá–Roberto Marinho Airport (RRJ) — A smaller airport located in the Barra da Tijuca district. It mainly serves general aviation and some regional flights, with occasional commercial operations.
These airports make Rio highly accessible from both around Brazil and across the world, ensuring visitors attending Carnival can choose arrivals that best suit their travel needs.
Main Airlines in Brazil That Operate Domestic and International Flights — Useful for Travel Planning Around Rio Carnival 2026 and Other Destinations:
Major Brazilian Airlines:
1. LATAM Airlines Brasil – One of the largest carriers in Brazil and across Latin America, LATAM operates extensive domestic and international routes connecting major Brazilian cities with global destinations. It is a popular choice for both long‑haul and short‑haul travel.
2. Gol Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes (GOL) – A leading Brazilian low‑cost airline based in Rio de Janeiro, known for its affordable fares and wide domestic network. It also flies to select international destinations within Latin America and the Caribbean.
3. Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras (Azul) – A major Brazilian airline with one of the most extensive route networks in the country, serving many regional and smaller cities as well as major hubs. Azul is known for affordable service and strong domestic connectivity.
Regional and Specialized Airlines
1. Azul Conecta – A regional subsidiary of Azul that connects smaller Brazilian cities and interior airports to the larger national network.
2. Total Linhas Aéreas – A smaller Brazilian airline that operates both passenger and cargo services on charter and select scheduled routes.
International Airlines That Fly to Brazil
Many international carriers operate flights to Brazil’s major airports (e.g., Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG) and São Paulo–Guarulhos (GRU)), including: United Airlines, American Airlines, Copa Airlines, Aerolineas Argentinas, Air Canada, TAP Air Portugal, Lufthansa, KLM, Air France, and more.
These airlines together ensure strong connectivity to Brazil from the Americas, Europe, and beyond, making travel to Rio Carnival 2026 and other top destinations conveniently accessible for international visitors.
Here are some of the nearest and most popular hotels in Rio de Janeiro — perfect for visitors attending Carnival 2026 and exploring the city:
Top Hotel Options in Rio de Janeiro:
1. MGallery Santa Teresa Hotel – Elegant boutique hotel in historic Santa Teresa, ideal for travellers seeking upscale comfort with panoramic views of Rio. 2. Vila Santa Teresa – Highly rated luxury stay in Santa Teresa, known for refined décor and tranquil surroundings. 3. Hotel Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro – Well‑reviewed hotel in downtown Rio, offering great value and convenient access to major Carnival venues. 4. Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro – Stylish urban hotel in Botafogo with modern amenities and excellent location near transport links. 5. Windsor Guanabara Hotel – Popular mid‑range option in central Rio with excellent access to Carnival activities. 6. Hotel Intercity Porto Maravilha – Comfortable hotel in the Santo Cristo area, good budget option with easy access to city attractions. 7. Prodigy Hotel Santos Dumont Airport Rio de Janeiro – Great choice for travellers arriving or departing via Santos Dumont Airport, with modern facilities. 8. Novotel RJ Santos Dumont – International chain hotel near the city centre and airport, perfect for convenience and comfort. 9. Arosa Rio Hotel – Budget‑friendly hotel in the lively Lapa neighbourhood, close to nightlife and Carnival routes. 10. Downtown Santana Hotel – One of the most affordable stays in central Rio, ideal for travellers on a tighter budget.
Other Comfortable and Boutique Stays
casaJOMO – Hotel & Retreats in Rio – Charming retreat‑style hotel perfect for a quieter base.
Boutique Hotel Castelinho – Stylish boutique option with a personalised experience.
Villa Paranaguá Hotel & SPA – Boutique hotel with spa services in Santa Teresa.
Les Jardins de Rio – Stylish heritage hotel mixing comfort with classic charm.
Gerthrudes – Cozy bed & breakfast option with excellent reviews in Santa Teresa.
Hostel BELAS ARTS – Budget hostel choice in the Cidade Nova area for backpackers.
Where to Stay
For Carnival festivities, popular neighbourhoods include South Zone (Zona Sul) — such as Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon — for proximity to beaches and nightlife, and Centro/Lapa for easy access to parades and transport options. Staying here combines convenience with vibrant local culture.
These hotel options provide a range of choices from luxury and boutique stays to budget‑friendly accommodations, all within reach of key Carnival venues and Rio’s top attractions.
Nearest and Most Popular Destinations and Attractions in and Around Rio de Janeiro- Perfect for Visitors During Carnival 2026 or Leisure Travel:
Top Attractions Within Rio de Janeiro
1.Christ the Redeemer (Corcovado) – One of the world’s most iconic landmarks, this towering statue offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline. Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles) from downtown Rio, Travel Time: 20-30 minutes by car or taxi. 2.Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) – Take a cable car up this famed peak to enjoy stunning vistas over Guanabara Bay, Copacabana and the city skyline. Distance:4 km (2.5 miles) from downtown Rio, Travel Time: 10-15 minutes by car or taxi. 3.Copacabana & Ipanema Beaches – Rio’s legendary beaches are must‑visit spots for sun, sand, sea life, and people watching in effortless Brazilian style. Distance:5 km (3.1 miles) from downtown Rio, Travel Time:15-20 minutes by car or taxi. 4. Tijuca National Park – One of the largest urban rainforests in the world, offering scenic hiking trails, waterfalls and lush nature right within the city. Distance:10 km (6.2 miles) from downtown Rio, Travel Time:25-30 minutes by car or taxi. 5. Selarón Steps (Escadaria Selarón) – A colourful, mosaic staircase created by artist Jorge Selarón, popular with visitors for photos and cultural vibes. Distance:2 km (1.2 miles) from downtown Rio, Travel Time:5-10 minutes by car or taxi. 6. Maracanã Stadium – A legendary football stadium that can be visited with guided tours or attended for matches and events. Distance:6 km (3.7 miles) from downtown Rio, Travel Time:15-20 minutes by car or taxi. 7. Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico) – A tranquil and beautiful green space featuring diverse plants and palm‑lined avenues. Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles) from downtown Rio, Travel Time: 20-25 minutes by car or taxi. 8. Lapa Arches and Historic Downtown – Explore colonial architecture, nightlife, cafés, cultural centres and historic streets. Distance:2 km (1.2 miles) from downtown Rio, Travel Time:5-10 minutes by car or taxi
Nearby Day Trip Destinations Outside Rio
1. Ilha Grande – A stunning island just a few hours away, known for pristine beaches, lush forest, and ocean adventures like snorkeling and hiking. Distance: 150 km (93 miles) from Rio, Travel Time: 2 hours by car to Angra dos Reis, followed by a 1-1.5 hour boat ride. 2. Búzios – A lively coastal resort town with over 20 beaches, water sports, evening dining, and vibrant nightlife — perfect for a post‑Carnival escape. Distance: 170 km (105 miles) from Rio, Travel Time: 2.5-3 hours by car. 3. Petrópolis (“Imperial City”) – A cooler mountain city rich in history and culture, featuring the Imperial Museum and beautiful historic architecture. Distance: 68 km (42 miles) from Rio, Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours by car. 4. Arraial do Cabo & Cabo Frio – Famous for crystal‑clear waters, white sand beaches, diving, and scenic seaside views. Distance: 170 km (105 miles) from Rio, Travel Time: 2.5-3 hours by car.
Natural and Scenic Experiences
1. Guanabara Bay – A dramatic bay fringed by Rio’s skyline and mountains; boat tours and ecological sites like mangrove areas offer unique perspectives. 2. National Parks & Trails – For outdoor lovers, areas such as Serra dos Órgãos National Park offer hiking, waterfalls, wildlife, and rugged scenery ideal for day trips from Rio. Distance: 120 km (74 miles) from Rio, Travel Time: 2-2.5 hours by car.
These destinations capture the diverse appeal of Rio de Janeiro and its surroundings — from iconic monuments and legendary beaches to lush nature and charming historic towns — making the city a standout base for exploring Brazil’s beauty.
Rio Carnival 2026 will be a historic event, with over sixty million revelers expected to participate, including tourists from the US, Canada, Argentina, Mexico, France, Portugal, Germany, and more. This explosive growth is set to boost Brazil’s global tourism and economy, reinforcing its status as a top international destination.
Conclusion: Carnival 2026—Brazil’s Triumph on the Global Stage
With over 60 million revelers, billions in economic impact, and a global audience, Carnival 2026 is shaping up to be an unparalleled celebration of Brazil’s cultural and economic power. As the world turns its attention to Brazil’s most iconic festival, Carnival is not just a short-lived event—it is a long-term tourism phenomenon that enhances the nation’s global profile and boosts local economies.
Carnival 2026 will be a triumph for Brazil’s tourism industry, reinforcing its position as a top global travel destination and proving that the world’s love for Brazil’s vibrant celebration is stronger than ever.
Luma Fertility, a trailblazer in next-generation fertility care, has partnered with Kitchen Garden by Suzette, a renowned farm-to-table café, to introduce India’s first fertility-centric dining experience. This innovative collaboration, called The Fertility Table, aims to transform the way we approach reproductive health by combining expert-backed nutritional science with everyday meals. Through a carefully crafted menu of plant-forward, nourishing dishes, The Fertility Table offers a unique, enjoyable way to support hormonal balance, egg and sperm quality, and overall reproductive wellness, making fertility nutrition accessible and delightful for everyone.
This groundbreaking collaboration transforms fertility nutrition into an approachable, enjoyable experience. Moving away from clinical diets and rigid food plans, The Fertility Table emphasizes the importance of everyday meals as an accessible, long-term solution to supporting reproductive health. By offering dishes that blend medical expertise with comforting, familiar foods, this initiative aims to make fertility care as natural and enjoyable as possible.
Fertility Nutrition Reimagined: Nourishing the Body with Every Meal
The Fertility Table is rooted in the belief that supporting reproductive health through diet doesn’t have to be daunting. In fact, it should feel intuitive and delightful. The menu highlights the power of simple, nourishing meals made from seasonal produce and organic ingredients, each chosen for its ability to boost fertility. From plant-based mains and nutrient-dense salads to wholesome desserts, the menu focuses on foods that naturally support hormonal balance, improve egg and sperm quality, and reduce inflammation.
This approach makes fertility nutrition feel accessible, sustainable, and, most importantly, enjoyable. Rather than forcing diners into restrictive eating habits, The Fertility Table invites them to indulge in nourishing, flavorful food while quietly working to enhance their reproductive health. The idea is to normalize the conversation around fertility nutrition and show that it can be a part of everyday life without feeling overwhelming.
The menu is designed with care, offering dishes that cater to a range of tastes while focusing on fertility-boosting ingredients like antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins. These foods are scientifically proven to support reproductive health, helping individuals prepare for conception in a way that feels both natural and fulfilling.
Transparency and Education: Understanding What’s on Your Plate
Each dish at The Fertility Table comes with a dedicated information card that breaks down the nutritional benefits of the ingredients used. This feature makes the menu more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity for diners to engage with the science of fertility nutrition in an informative and easy-to-understand way. The cards explain how specific ingredients like leafy greens, nuts, and seeds can support fertility, empowering diners to make better-informed decisions about their diet.
Additionally, ingredient lists and nutritional details are displayed at the table, giving diners full transparency about what they’re eating. This approach encourages an open, informed dialogue about the foods that impact reproductive health, making fertility nutrition approachable for everyone—whether they are actively trying to conceive or simply interested in supporting their reproductive health.
Nourishment Through Simplicity and Care
The philosophy behind Kitchen Garden by Suzette has always focused on creating food that is simple, wholesome, and nourishing—without gimmicks or extreme dietary trends. This philosophy is carried over into The Fertility Table menu, which embraces familiar, comforting dishes that are designed to restore the body naturally.
Rather than promoting short-term trends, Kitchen Garden’s team emphasizes that fertility care, like overall well-being, is about consistent, thoughtful choices that honor the body. “It’s not about restriction—it’s about listening to the body and making balanced, nourishing food choices that support health over time,” says the team at Kitchen Garden. By partnering with Luma Fertility, they’ve successfully translated medical insight into everyday food that diners already trust and love.
The Fertility Table menu encourages a positive relationship with food. Instead of positioning nutrition as a rigid system, it emphasizes balance, consistency, and care. Each meal is an opportunity to nourish both the body and mind, supporting fertility while remaining a joyful, indulgent experience.
Beyond the Menu: A Holistic Approach to Fertility Care
The Fertility Table represents a shift in how we think about fertility care. It goes beyond simply providing food—it reflects the broader belief that fertility isn’t something that starts and ends in a clinic. It starts with daily choices, like the meals we eat, which can have a significant impact on our overall health and reproductive well-being.
This initiative invites people to see fertility nutrition as a holistic practice that doesn’t require drastic or extreme measures. Instead, it’s about small, thoughtful adjustments to everyday eating habits that can have a profound effect on reproductive health. The Fertility Table is an invitation to rethink how we approach fertility support, and to recognize that it starts with something as simple as a delicious, nourishing meal.
Where to Experience The Fertility Table
Locations:
Bandra
Juhu
BKC
Phoenix Palladium (Lower Parel)
Dates: January 12, 2026 – March 12, 2026
Delivery: Available through Swiggy and Zomato for convenient online ordering.
Conclusion
The Fertility Table is more than just a dining menu—it’s an innovative approach to fertility care that merges nutritional science with everyday dining. By offering meals that support reproductive health in a fun, accessible, and sustainable way, Luma Fertility and Kitchen Garden by Suzette are changing the way we think about fertility nutrition. It’s not about complicated diets or clinical restrictions—it’s about nourishing the body in a way that feels natural, indulgent, and joyful. With every bite, The Fertility Table reminds us that food is one of the most powerful tools we have to support our health, well-being, and life’s most meaningful journeys.
Ascott Limited marked a significant achievement in 2025, signing an impressive 19,000 units across 102 properties, reflecting a 27% increase in new signings year-on-year. This milestone underscores the company’s successful expansion strategy and its ability to grow while keeping an asset-light approach. The company’s expansion into high-fee segments such as resorts, branded residences, and wellness offerings contributed significantly to its growth.
As of 2025, Ascott operates in over 230 cities in 40+ countries, with more than 1,000 properties across its diverse portfolio. This expansion reinforces Ascott’s position as a global leader in the hospitality industry, catering to the increasing demand for both short-term and long-term accommodations in premium locations worldwide.
Record-Breaking Expansion Through Asset-Light Strategy
Ascott’s remarkable growth in 2025 can be attributed to its asset-light model, focusing on generating fee-based revenue through management contracts, franchising, and joint ventures. This strategy allowed the company to scale rapidly without investing heavily in property ownership.
A notable part of Ascott’s strategy was the focus on converting existing assets into high-demand accommodation types. Over 38% of new signings were conversions of existing properties. The speed of these conversions—like those of Citadines Antasari Jakarta and lyf Zhangjiang Shanghai—demonstrates Ascott’s operational efficiency and responsiveness to market demand. This quick turnaround allows Ascott to capitalize on the growing demand for different types of accommodations without significant upfront investment.
Key Market Expansions and Resort Growth
In 2025, Ascott further extended its global reach, entering new cities like Wellington and Taipei while reinforcing its presence in high-demand resort destinations such as Phuket, Phu Quoc, Langkawi, and Nha Trang. These cities and resorts reflect the growing demand for both leisure and long-term stays in various parts of the world.
Among the most notable resort developments is the 693-unit HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh, marking Ascott’s debut in Vietnam. This expansion strengthens the company’s position in Asia’s booming resort market, offering a blend of relaxation, wellness, and premium amenities in a popular destination. Alongside this, Ascott’s portfolio grew in Spain, where it added a 250-unit lyf and a 120-unit Somerset in Seville, catering to travelers looking for long-term stays and luxury accommodations in prime locations.
As the wellness travel segment continues to grow, Ascott’s expansion into resorts is aligned with broader industry trends, meeting the increasing demand for wellness-focused and experiential travel options in popular destinations.
Strengthening the Branded Residences Portfolio
Ascott’s commitment to diversifying its offerings extended to its branded residences portfolio, which saw the addition of over 1,000 new units in 2025. Notable additions included the 227-unit Residences at Ascott Abov Patong Phuket, which provides high-end long-term living options for guests in one of Thailand’s most sought-after areas.
In addition to its resorts, Ascott expanded its Oakwood Premier branded residences with the addition of 792 units at Oakwood Premier Luohu Shenzhen, strategically located in a thriving business district. These projects cater to high-net-worth individuals, business professionals, and long-term residents looking for luxurious, fully serviced accommodations.
Growth Through Franchising and Strategic Partnerships
Franchise growth continued to be a cornerstone of Ascott’s expansion strategy, accounting for over 25% of total units signed in 2025. The company deepened its presence in China by securing five Quest properties through its joint venture with Jin Jiang and expanding its Citadines brand with several franchise agreements.
A highlight in Ascott’s franchise growth was the 510-key Oakwood Gangneung in South Korea. Located within the Cultural Olympic Special Zone, this property is poised to attract both leisure and business travelers, further enhancing Ascott’s brand presence in key locations.
Adapting to Changing Traveler Demands with Flexible Living Concepts
Ascott’s focus on meeting changing traveler behaviors was evident in 2025 with the introduction of lyf Wellington. This 108-room property is designed with interconnected rooms and shared spaces, creating a collaborative environment that appeals to travelers who blend work and leisure during their stays. The social-living concept aligns with the growing trend of flexible accommodation solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern travelers.
The lyf brand’s expansion reflects the growing demand for extended stays, with Ascott now offering a range of options designed for travelers looking for flexibility, community engagement, and convenience in their accommodations. Ascott’s continued investment in technology and loyalty programs further enhances guest experiences, ensuring that the brand remains a top choice for travelers seeking adaptable living arrangements.
A Strong Foundation for Future Growth
Looking toward 2026, Ascott is poised to continue its growth trajectory, capitalizing on the success achieved in 2025. The company’s strong pipeline of properties, combined with its strategic focus on asset-light expansion, high-fee segments, and growing demand for resorts and branded residences, positions it for continued success in the years ahead.
Ascott’s leadership remains focused on strengthening its global footprint, expanding its diverse portfolio, and meeting the evolving demands of travelers. As the company looks ahead to 2026, it is confident in its ability to drive long-term growth and deliver exceptional value for both property owners and guests.
On February 6, 2026, Hyatt Hotels Corporation unveiled the long-awaited Hyatt Regency Zhuhai Gongbei, adding another landmark property to its global portfolio. Situated in the vibrant Gongbei district, which serves as a gateway between Zhuhai and Macau, the hotel is designed to provide a modern yet culturally rich hospitality experience for both business and leisure travelers. With its exceptional location, luxurious amenities, and thoughtfully designed spaces, the hotel promises to be a top choice for guests seeking comfort, elegance, and connectivity in this dynamic region.
Designing the Future with Local Inspiration and Global Appeal
Hyatt Regency Zhuhai Gongbei sets itself apart with a design that beautifully blends traditional cultural elements with contemporary architecture. Drawing inspiration from the region’s Lingnan architectural style, which is renowned for its intricate wooden carvings, open spaces, and emphasis on natural light, the hotel brings a modern twist to classic Chinese design principles. These architectural elements are seamlessly woven throughout the hotel, creating a space that feels both inviting and serene.
In addition to its Lingnan influences, the hotel’s design incorporates coastal motifs that reflect the surrounding environment. With its location by the waterfront, the hotel’s aesthetic captures the essence of Zhuhai’s connection to the sea. Traditional courtyard concepts have been integrated into the property to offer guests moments of peaceful respite amidst the city’s energy. The result is a refined blend of historical charm and contemporary luxury that welcomes guests into a tranquil oasis.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the expansive sky lobby, where natural light floods the space, highlighting the stunning design details. The careful curation of materials, layered lighting, and spacious layout create an atmosphere that is as calming as it is sophisticated, offering a warm welcome to travelers from around the world.
Distinctive Accommodations and Dining Experiences
Hyatt Regency Zhuhai Gongbei offers 278 meticulously designed guestrooms and suites, each thoughtfully furnished to cater to the needs of modern travelers. The rooms offer a harmonious balance of comfort and functionality, with clean lines, comfortable textures, and a calming color palette to promote relaxation. Whether you are visiting for a brief business trip or an extended stay, the accommodations provide a perfect retreat where guests can unwind after a day of exploring or working.
The hotel’s dining options elevate the guest experience by showcasing a fusion of local flavors and global culinary traditions. The Xiangyue Chinese restaurant, the hotel’s signature dining venue, offers an exceptional menu of traditional Cantonese delicacies paired with innovative seafood creations. The design of the restaurant draws inspiration from the historical Tangjia Old Town, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying expertly crafted dishes.
For guests looking for a more casual dining experience, Market Café offers an all-day menu that brings together the best of Chinese and Western cuisines. This versatile dining option ensures that guests can enjoy a wide variety of dishes throughout the day, whether they are in the mood for something light or a more indulgent meal.
The Lobby Bar provides a relaxed space for guests to unwind, offering a selection of coffee, afternoon tea, and expertly mixed beverages. With panoramic views of the Gongbei Port area, the bar is the perfect spot for casual socializing or enjoying a quiet moment. For those seeking an exclusive retreat, the Regency Club offers an intimate, private space where guests can enjoy unparalleled views of the city and the surrounding dual-city skyline. This refined setting is perfect for relaxation, small meetings, or casual conversation with colleagues and friends.
A Focus on Wellness and Relaxation
Hyatt Regency Zhuhai Gongbei is committed to supporting the well-being of its guests by offering a comprehensive range of wellness and leisure facilities. The hotel features a fitness center, indoor heated swimming pool, and yoga studio, all located on elevated levels of the building. This elevated positioning provides guests with a serene retreat that allows them to focus on health and fitness while enjoying breathtaking views of the city below.
The hotel’s wellness offerings cater to a variety of preferences, allowing guests to stay active, rejuvenate, or simply relax during their stay. The tranquility and privacy offered by the hotel’s wellness facilities make it an ideal destination for guests looking to recharge and unwind after a busy day in Zhuhai or Macau.
Meeting and Event Spaces Designed for Every Occasion
Hyatt Regency Zhuhai Gongbei also stands out as a premier venue for meetings, events, and celebrations. The hotel features over 1,600 square meters of versatile event space, including a spacious Grand Ballroom that spans 625 square meters. The ballroom’s impressive seven-meter ceiling creates a grand setting for events, and its pillar-free design offers flexible layout options for everything from weddings to corporate gatherings. The ballroom’s expansive pre-function area provides ample space for networking and socializing, with panoramic views of the city and bay.
Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the ballroom includes a cutting-edge P1.86 LED display, measuring 10.24 meters by 4.8 meters. This advanced visual technology enhances every event, whether it’s a corporate presentation, gala, or wedding, by delivering vibrant, high-definition imagery. The hotel also provides advanced lighting, sound, and climate control systems, ensuring that every event is tailored to meet the specific needs of hosts and attendees.
With its stunning event venues and dedicated service team, Hyatt Regency Zhuhai Gongbei is set to become the go-to destination for everything from business conferences to special occasions.
World of Hyatt Member Benefits
As part of its opening celebrations, Hyatt is offering World of Hyatt members the chance to earn 500 Bonus Points for qualifying stays at Hyatt Regency Zhuhai Gongbei. This promotion is valid for stays completed by May 31, 2026, and is a part of Hyatt’s new hotel member offers. Members can enjoy this bonus on top of any existing promotions, ensuring that every stay at this new property is even more rewarding. The bonus points can also be accumulated on stays at other participating Hyatt hotels, offering additional opportunities for members to earn rewards while enjoying their travels.
A Prime Location Connecting Zhuhai and Macau
Hyatt Regency Zhuhai Gongbei benefits from a prime location in the heart of the Gongbei district, which serves as a key gateway between Zhuhai and Macau. The hotel offers easy access to major attractions, shopping districts, and entertainment venues in both cities, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking to explore the region. Guests can easily experience the best of Zhuhai and Macau, whether for business, leisure, or both.
With its unbeatable location, luxurious facilities, and elegant design, Hyatt Regency Zhuhai Gongbei is set to become a landmark property in the region. The hotel not only provides guests with an exceptional stay but also offers a bridge between two of the most dynamic cities in Asia. Whether you’re visiting for a short getaway, a business trip, or a special event, Hyatt Regency Zhuhai Gongbei promises a memorable experience that combines modern luxury with rich cultural influences.
In an era where trends are often short-lived, Light Stone Jewellery stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of tradition. The brand creates more than just jewellery; it offers pieces that are an exploration of quiet luxury, where every design connects the present with the past. Drawing inspiration from rich cultural histories, Light Stone transforms ancient techniques into wearable works of art that are both modern and timeless.
In a world driven by fleeting fashion trends, Light Stone Jewellery rejects the transient nature of the industry, instead opting to create pieces that celebrate the permanence of heirloom-quality jewellery. Each item is designed with the intention of becoming a treasured piece that endures, not just in terms of material quality but also in its historical and cultural resonance. The jewellery becomes a personal statement, an intersection of history and contemporary style, designed to outlast passing fashions and trends.
Where Architecture Meets Art: The Philosophy Behind the Pieces
At the heart of Light Stone Jewellery lies a unique approach to design. With a background in Urban Planning, the brand’s founder sees jewellery not just as decoration but as “Spatial Composition.” Drawing from principles of balance, structure, and tension, each piece is created with the intention of fitting seamlessly with the wearer, rather than merely sitting as an accessory.
“Jewellery is a coordinate,” the brand’s founder explains, highlighting the idea that each design is a convergence of history, culture, and personal expression. Every piece of Light Stone Jewellery embodies the quiet strength of its wearer, offering them a subtle yet profound connection to a richer past while keeping them rooted in the present. The jewellery does not demand attention but instead makes a subtle statement—a reflection of inner strength, elegance, and timeless beauty.
The Tianqing Collection: A Modern Revival of Ancient Techniques
Among the standout collections of Light Stone Jewellery is the Tianqing Collection, inspired by the Northern Song Dynasty’s renowned Ru Kiln ceramics. This collection is a brilliant fusion of ancient techniques and modern design, rooted in the cultural and artistic traditions of China, yet created for the contemporary wearer. The Celadon Tianqing pieces are at the heart of this collection, carefully crafted to reflect both the craftsmanship of the past and the sophistication of modern jewellery design.
The Ru Kiln method, which produces the signature “sky after rain” blue celadon glaze, is known for its difficulty and rarity. Firing at temperatures exceeding 1380°C, the process yields pieces that embody serenity and elegance. However, only a small fraction of the pieces created in this manner meet the high standards of Light Stone Jewellery. Each Celadon Imperial Earring is born from the rare, perfect Ice Crackle texture, which is a product of the high-temperature firing process, making each piece a rare gem with a connection to both the Earth’s natural forces and centuries of craftsmanship.
The use of Longquan Celadon in this collection, which has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, adds another layer of historical significance to these pieces. The combination of history and modern design elevates the Tianqing Collection into something truly unique—jewellery that celebrates both the beauty of the past and the elegance of the present.
Mapping China’s Cultural History: A Collection of Four Aesthetic Coordinates
Light Stone Jewellery’s commitment to cultural preservation extends beyond a single collection. The brand’s “Wearable Culture Map” is a four-dimensional journey through China’s material history, represented through jewellery collections that reflect the artistic heritage of different regions and periods.
The Silk Road (Dunhuang) Collection: Drawing inspiration from the ancient murals of Dunhuang, Light Stone transforms intricate floral patterns into geometric gold vermeil structures, fusing the ancient with the contemporary in a stunning display of craftsmanship.
The Totem (Majiayao) Collection: This collection pays homage to the prehistoric Majiayao culture with pieces inspired by ancient Neolithic motifs. These designs capture the raw power and primal energy of the early world, reinterpreting these primitive lines into modern, sculptural forms.
The Filigree (Huasi) Collection: Filigree work has long been a hallmark of Chinese craftsmanship. Light Stone’s exploration of this technique elevates it to new heights with delicate silver thread-weaving that creates airy, yet strong structures. This collection’s intricate design makes a subtle yet striking statement, combining precision with beauty.
The Celadon (Tianqing) Collection: Featuring the ancient Longquan Celadon, this collection is designed to provide a tactile serenity, cooling the skin and calming the mind. The collection focuses on creating pieces that bring tranquility to the wearer, transforming jewellery into a meditative experience.
Each collection within the Wearable Culture Map serves as a journey through time and space, providing not only a connection to the past but also a modern interpretation of that history. As the brand continues to evolve, Light Stone has announced future plans to delve into Lacquer Art, further expanding the cultural journey it offers through its jewellery.
A Philosophy of Timelessness: Jewellery as a Personal Heirloom
Unlike the transient nature of fast fashion, Light Stone Jewellery embraces the concept of timelessness. The pieces are not intended to be fleeting trends but are designed with the understanding that true luxury lies in durability, both in terms of physical quality and cultural relevance. The jewellery is designed to last—not just in terms of its materials, but also in its connection to history and heritage.
By choosing to create modern heirlooms, Light Stone ensures that its jewellery carries both the weight of cultural legacy and the sophistication of modern design. Each piece is a work of art, a piece of history that transcends generations. The jewellery becomes more than just an accessory; it is a part of the wearer’s personal story, a symbol of quiet power, and a celebration of the beauty that exists in both the present and the past.
Through its approach to design, Light Stone Jewellery offers pieces that invite wearers to experience not only the beauty of the jewellery but also the cultural heritage embedded in every design. The jewellery becomes a medium for expressing quiet power, elegance, and a connection to something deeper than the surface level of beauty. In a world that is increasingly dominated by noise, Light Stone Jewellery offers a subtle rebellion—an invitation to embrace the beauty of silence and the power of lasting, meaningful design.
A Future Shaped by Culture and Craftsmanship
In a world dominated by fleeting trends, Light Stone Jewellery represents a return to substance over style, to craftsmanship over convenience. It is a celebration of slow luxury, where each piece is crafted with care, precision, and reverence for the past. By blending ancient techniques with modern design, Light Stone creates jewellery that is both a personal heirloom and a cultural statement. The brand’s commitment to preserving cultural traditions while adapting them to the modern world ensures that its pieces will remain relevant and revered for generations to come.
As Light Stone Jewellery continues to expand and innovate, the brand’s approach to creating jewellery as a living, breathing part of culture will remain at the heart of its identity. The Wearable Culture Map is just the beginning—an ongoing journey through time, craftsmanship, and culture that invites wearers to experience history, beauty, and quiet power with every piece.
Adora Cruises has reached a landmark achievement, celebrating its one-millionth passenger aboard Adora Magic City, signaling the company’s rapid ascent in China’s growing cruise industry. In conjunction with this milestone, the cruise line has launched its 2026 Adora Service Year, a comprehensive initiative designed to elevate onboard experiences, enhance service quality, and create a new benchmark for domestic cruise travel.
The 2026 Service Year reflects Adora Cruises’ Cruise + Culture strategy, which aims to merge premium travel with meaningful cultural immersion. The initiative is focused on three core areas: enhancing crew professionalism, ensuring every staff member delivers exceptional service; fine-tuning operational details, creating a seamless and memorable experience for guests; and personalized engagement, catering to the unique preferences and needs of each passenger. This multi-pronged approach is intended to transform every cruise journey into an extraordinary and carefully curated experience.
The milestone of welcoming one million passengers highlights the brand’s growing popularity and underscores the rising demand for high-quality, accessible cruise vacations within China. With more travelers seeking immersive experiences close to home, the 2026 Service Year demonstrates the company’s commitment to combining luxury, convenience, and cultural enrichment. Guests can expect an environment that is not only comfortable and modern but also thoughtfully tailored to make each journey unique.
Adora Cruises currently operates three major vessels: Adora Magic City, Adora Mediterranea, and Piano Land, all under the Astro Ocean Cruise brand. These ships serve a variety of homeports across East China, South China, North China, and Hong Kong, offering year-round itineraries that cater to both first-time cruisers and experienced travelers. The extensive network allows passengers to explore diverse destinations while enjoying the amenities, entertainment, and culinary experiences that have become hallmarks of Adora Cruises.
In addition to celebrating passenger growth, the company shared progress on its expanding fleet. Adora Flora City, the second cruise ship constructed in China, has reached full structural completion, with over 91% of construction finalized. Scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026, this vessel will expand Adora Cruises’ operational capacity, support new itineraries, and meet growing demand from domestic and regional travelers. The addition of Adora Flora City is a critical step in the company’s long-term strategy to strengthen its market position and deliver more diverse and enriching cruise experiences.
The 2026 Service Year is more than a branding exercise—it is a holistic effort to redefine cruise travel in China. By integrating cultural programming, service refinement, and individualized attention, the company is establishing a model for the future of domestic cruising. Guests can expect enhancements across all aspects of travel, from dining and entertainment to excursions and onboard activities, each designed to provide both enjoyment and cultural insight.
Adora Cruises’ Cruise + Culture philosophy emphasizes experiences that go beyond the ship itself. It integrates local traditions, cuisine, and cultural highlights into each itinerary, enabling passengers to connect more deeply with the destinations they visit. This approach not only enriches the travel experience but also contributes to local tourism development and fosters greater cultural understanding, positioning the brand as an innovator in the industry.
The launch of the Service Year highlights the company’s commitment to operational excellence, ensuring every element of the cruise experience meets high standards. From guest services to entertainment programming, the initiative aims to deliver a cohesive and consistently exceptional experience. This dedication to quality is designed to appeal to a growing segment of travelers who value both comfort and cultural enrichment.
With the addition of Adora Flora City and continued refinement of its service offerings, Adora Cruises is poised to further strengthen its presence in China’s cruise sector. The combination of fleet expansion, innovative service strategies, and a focus on culturally immersive experiences positions the company to lead domestic cruise travel while setting benchmarks that competitors may follow.
By celebrating the one-millionth passenger milestone alongside the introduction of the 2026 Service Year, Adora Cruises demonstrates its commitment to delivering more than just transportation. The company aims to create a journey that is luxurious, memorable, and culturally engaging, providing travelers with experiences that combine comfort, adventure, and a deeper understanding of the places they visit.
As domestic cruising continues to grow in popularity, Adora Cruises is setting new standards for what passengers can expect from modern cruise travel in China. With a focus on service innovation, fleet growth, and cultural immersion, the 2026 Service Year reflects the company’s ambition to make every cruise a distinctive, high-quality experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Virtuoso, a premier network in luxury travel, has introduced a newly created Special Advisor position within its cruise division, signaling a strategic commitment to growth, innovation, and global collaboration. The role, reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, Cruise, is designed to strengthen long-term planning, refine organizational structure, and drive high-value partnerships across the company’s worldwide network.
The Special Advisor will focus on developing and executing the cruise division’s overarching strategy while ensuring seamless integration between operational execution and partnership initiatives. A primary objective of the role is to enhance global connections with agencies and advisors, optimizing Virtuoso’s network to deliver personalized and elevated cruise experiences to discerning travelers.
This strategic appointment reflects the company’s dedication to maintaining its leadership position within the luxury cruise market. By embedding a high-level advisory role into the organizational framework, Virtuoso aims to establish a robust global partnership model that connects partners with the right agencies, expands access to affluent clientele, and promotes sustainable long-term growth in a rapidly evolving sector.
Collaboration with the Global Partnerships team is a central element of the role, ensuring alignment across sales strategy, investment priorities, and product development. This coordinated approach allows Virtuoso to maintain continuity in current operations while providing a strategic lens for future growth. The advisory position bridges the gap between long-term vision and day-to-day operations, enabling the company to respond proactively to market opportunities and trends.
While the Special Advisor focuses on strategy, the cruise division’s daily operations continue under existing leadership, ensuring operational excellence and consistent delivery of high-quality services. This dual structure allows the company to combine strategic foresight with executional efficiency, ensuring that travelers receive exceptional experiences while the business remains agile and forward-looking.
The creation of this advisory role highlights the growing importance of global partnerships in the luxury travel industry. Virtuoso leverages its international network to deliver curated cruise experiences tailored to individual preferences, focusing on immersive itineraries, unique destinations, and premium service. Strengthening these global partnerships allows the company to stay ahead of industry trends and maintain a competitive advantage in an increasingly complex market.
Luxury cruise travel has seen significant growth, with travelers seeking tailored, high-end experiences that combine comfort, culture, and adventure. The Special Advisor role equips Virtuoso to respond effectively to these market shifts by guiding product development, strategic positioning, and partnership engagement. This proactive approach ensures the company can continue delivering distinctive experiences while capitalizing on emerging opportunities.
In addition to global partnership development, the advisory role encompasses product innovation, market analysis, and investment guidance. By providing oversight in these areas, the Special Advisor helps ensure that Virtuoso remains agile and responsive, capable of adapting its offerings to changing traveler expectations while maintaining a clear path toward sustainable growth.
Innovation is a critical focus of the role, with an emphasis on identifying trends, exploring new markets, and enhancing the luxury cruise experience. This forward-thinking perspective allows Virtuoso to continuously elevate its service and product offerings, keeping the company at the forefront of the industry while building long-term value for partners and travelers alike.
Integrating strategic oversight with operational management is central to the advisory role’s effectiveness. Ensuring alignment across strategy, partnerships, and execution strengthens the company’s capacity to deliver exceptional experiences consistently, deepen relationships with partners, and secure continued growth in a competitive sector.
The position also reinforces Virtuoso’s commitment to connecting travelers with globally curated cruise offerings. By leveraging strategic insights and operational expertise, the Special Advisor ensures that product development, marketing initiatives, and partnership strategies work cohesively to meet the expectations of luxury travelers worldwide.
Ultimately, the establishment of this advisory role demonstrates Virtuoso’s forward-looking approach to the cruise industry. By focusing on strategic planning, global collaboration, and operational alignment, the company is positioning itself to capture emerging opportunities, respond to industry challenges, and enhance the overall value delivered to both travelers and partners.
With a renewed emphasis on global partnerships, product innovation, and strategic alignment, Virtuoso is poised to reinforce its leadership in the luxury cruise market. The company’s investment in this high-level advisory capacity ensures it can remain responsive, globally connected, and well-positioned for continued growth and success in the evolving travel landscape.
TUI cruise division has delivered its most successful first quarter to date in 2026, reporting a remarkable increase in earnings, occupancy, and revenue. Underlying EBIT jumped 70.8% to €82.3 million, compared to €48.2 million in the same period last year, reflecting growing passenger demand and the strategic addition of new vessels to the fleet.
The winter program was strengthened by the launch of Mein Schiff Relax, which boosted available passenger cruise days by nearly 16%, raising total capacity to almost 3 million days. Despite this significant expansion, occupancy remained robust at 98%, a three-point increase over the previous year, demonstrating that the market continues to absorb additional capacity without compromising demand.
Revenue across the division climbed 6.2% to €186.8 million, with the German-language cruise segment contributing strongly to earnings after tax of €62.7 million. Operating a 13-ship fleet, including nine Mein Schiff vessels and four Hapag-Lloyd Cruises ships, the segment maintained consistent occupancy at 98% and average daily rates of €206. This combination of high demand and stable pricing highlights the division’s ability to grow capacity while protecting margins.
TUI’s UK cruise brand also posted impressive results. Its five-ship fleet achieved full occupancy at 100%, up two points from last year, and average daily rates increased 4.8% to £197. These figures illustrate the brand’s continued pricing power and sustained consumer confidence in the UK cruise market. High occupancy coupled with rising rates demonstrates that supply growth has been effectively managed to meet demand across multiple regions.
Analysts note that these results underline the resilience of the European cruise market and the effectiveness of fleet expansion strategies. By carefully introducing new ships and optimizing itineraries, TUI has been able to enhance capacity while maintaining high service levels, operational efficiency, and passenger satisfaction.
Looking forward, the division expects momentum to continue throughout 2026. Available passenger cruise days are projected to grow 9% in the second quarter and by 6% in the full second half of the fiscal year. A major contributor to this growth will be the summer 2026 launch of Mein Schiff Flow, which will add approximately 4,000 berths to the fleet. The new vessel will expand itinerary options, introduce modern onboard amenities, and strengthen environmental sustainability practices.
Fleet modernization remains central to TUI’s strategy. New vessels are designed not only to increase capacity but also to improve the passenger experience through enhanced dining, entertainment, and leisure offerings. Environmental upgrades ensure compliance with evolving sustainability standards while providing travelers with a premium cruising experience.
The dual-market approach has been key to sustaining growth. Serving both German-speaking countries and the UK, the division diversifies its revenue streams and minimizes exposure to regional fluctuations in demand. Occupancy remains consistently high in both markets, reflecting the effectiveness of tailored itineraries and marketing campaigns that target diverse traveler segments.
Operational efficiency continues to underpin profitability as the fleet expands. Streamlined itineraries, careful staff deployment, and resource management ensure that new capacity is integrated seamlessly, while passenger experience remains a priority. This focus allows the division to achieve growth without eroding profitability.
Overall, TUI’s record first quarter illustrates the division’s strength in balancing fleet expansion, market demand, and operational excellence. High EBIT, occupancy, and daily rates demonstrate the division’s ability to capitalize on increasing demand for cruise travel while maintaining efficiency and quality service.
The upcoming introduction of Mein Schiff Flow is expected to further reinforce the division’s market position, adding capacity and new travel experiences for passengers. With continued fleet modernization, operational efficiency, and a dual-market strategy, the cruise division is well-positioned to sustain strong growth and solidify its leadership in the European cruise market throughout 2026.
Viking Cruises has opened its first dedicated brand experience center in Beijing, marking a pivotal step in the company’s expansion across China. Launched on February 5, the center commemorates Viking’s 10-year presence in the Chinese market and emphasizes the company’s ongoing focus on delivering culturally immersive and high-quality travel experiences to Chinese travelers.
Located in the heart of Beijing, the center showcases Viking’s signature Nordic-inspired design, creating a modern, elegant environment that invites visitors to explore. The facility features multiple interactive zones, including a cultural exhibition wall, private consultation areas, and a multimedia theater. These spaces allow guests to engage directly with Viking’s global cruise offerings, from European river journeys to Mediterranean ocean itineraries, providing a tangible sense of the destinations and experiences available.
The center also emphasizes personalized travel planning. Visitors receive one-on-one guidance from specialists, helping them design tailored itineraries that suit their preferences, schedules, and interests. Designed with travelers aged 55 and above in mind, the facility seeks to strengthen connections with northern Chinese consumers who value enriching, leisurely travel experiences. By combining interactive displays with expert consultation, the center bridges inspiration and practical planning, allowing visitors to make informed decisions about their travel adventures.
The opening of the Beijing center reflects Viking Cruises’ broader strategy to create offline touchpoints in key Chinese cities. Over the past decade, Viking has introduced innovative services tailored for Chinese guests, including fully Chinese-speaking river and ocean cruises throughout Europe. The Beijing facility sets the stage for similar experience centers in other first- and second-tier cities, reinforcing the brand’s long-term commitment to the Chinese market and supporting its growth plans in the region.
Since its launch in China in 2016, Viking Cruises has served nearly 100,000 passengers, with Beijing ranking as the company’s second-largest market in the country after Shanghai. The new center provides a physical hub where travelers can explore Viking’s itineraries, understand destination highlights, and experience the brand’s travel philosophy in a visually immersive format.
Interactive features within the center include a cultural wall that tells the story of the destinations and experiences travelers can enjoy on Viking cruises. Private consultation areas allow guests to discuss preferences and plan trips in detail, while the multimedia theater brings destinations to life with immersive presentations, creating excitement and anticipation for upcoming voyages. This approach transforms curiosity into concrete travel plans, helping visitors visualize their journey before stepping on board.
The 2026 cruise lineup for Chinese travelers features 14 European river routes and eight Mediterranean ocean itineraries, all with Chinese-language services. Many of these cruises are already fully booked, reflecting the strong demand among Chinese travelers for culturally enriching international experiences. The Beijing center acts as a bridge between potential guests and Viking’s offerings, providing detailed insights into itineraries, destinations, and the company’s distinctive approach to luxury travel.
The facility reflects Viking’s philosophy of blending luxury with cultural immersion. By combining interactive, in-person experiences with personalized guidance, the company ensures travelers can explore the world in an accessible, engaging, and culturally relevant manner. This strategy not only elevates brand awareness but also fosters loyalty by offering meaningful, tailored experiences that resonate with discerning travelers.
Beyond marketing, the Beijing experience center demonstrates Viking Cruises’ understanding of the Chinese luxury travel market. It addresses the desire for high-quality, accessible, and culturally immersive travel, allowing guests to plan trips with confidence while gaining a deeper connection to the brand’s global presence.
As Viking continues to expand its footprint in China, the Beijing center sets a benchmark for experiential engagement. It highlights the growing role of immersive, offline experiences in luxury travel, offering consumers a unique opportunity to interact with the brand, learn about destinations, and plan their journeys in a thoughtful, engaging environment. By combining education, inspiration, and practical planning tools, the center positions Viking Cruises as a premier choice for travelers seeking culturally rich and accessible international experiences.
The sudden closure of Alaskan Dream earlier this month has left its fleet of small coastal vessels in limbo, with no clear direction for their future. The four U.S.-flagged ships, which have long been a staple of Alaska’s tourism scene, now sit idle at the port of Sitka, waiting for a resolution on what comes next. This unexpected shutdown has drawn attention to the challenges faced by small-ship operators in Alaska, as well as the appeal that such vessels hold in offering a more personalized and intimate cruising experience in the region.
The fleet’s vessels, despite their relatively small sizes, have played a vital role in shaping the tourism experience along Alaska’s scenic coastline. With capacities ranging from 40 to 76 passengers, these ships provided a far more personal approach to cruising than larger, mainstream vessels. Their ability to navigate shallow waters, narrow passages, and remote ports made it possible for travelers to explore parts of Alaska that are often inaccessible to bigger ships. This allowed guests to enjoy closer encounters with wildlife, glaciers, and secluded communities, creating an immersive travel experience that larger cruise lines cannot replicate.
Alaskan Dream Vessel The flagship of the fleet, the Alaskan Dream, is a large catamaran built in 1986 by Nichols Brothers Boat Builders. Originally named Executive Explorer and later Contessa, the vessel joined the fleet in 2010. Designed to accommodate 40 passengers, the 490-ton catamaran provided a stable and comfortable cruising experience, even in the challenging Alaskan waters. Its smaller size allowed for more flexible itineraries and closer interactions with the environment. The vessel’s design, with spacious decks and a well-thought-out cabin layout, made for an intimate and high-quality voyage.
Baranof Dream Vessel Built in 1980 by Blount Marine, the Baranof Dream offers accommodations for 49 passengers. Initially named Pacific Northwest Explorer, it later became known as Spirit of Alaska before joining the fleet in 2010. This ship’s compact design allowed it to easily maneuver through narrow, shallow channels and reach hidden coves and smaller harbors, areas that larger ships simply cannot access. Its design helped deliver an authentic Alaska experience, allowing passengers to witness glaciers, wildlife, and fjords up close.
Admiralty Dream Vessel The Admiralty Dream, a 58-passenger vessel built in 1979 by Blount Industries, was originally launched as New Shoreham II before being renamed Spirit of Columbia. It joined the fleet in 2010 and quickly became known for its intimate and comfortable spaces. The vessel’s 514-ton structure provided expansive observation decks and accommodations ideal for wildlife viewing and photography. Its small size made it particularly well-suited for exploring Alaska’s remote and less-visited areas, offering passengers a personalized and immersive journey.
Chichagof Dream Vessel The Chichagof Dream is the largest of the fleet, accommodating 76 passengers with a tonnage of 1,471. Built in 1984 by Jeffboat Corporation, the ship has operated under several names, including Nantucket Clipper and Spirit of Glacier Bay, before joining the fleet in 2015. This vessel combines the space and amenities of larger ships with the flexibility and intimacy of a small cruise. Its size allows for extended itineraries while still being able to visit smaller, more secluded ports, offering passengers both comfort and access to remote destinations.
The Importance of Small Ships in Alaska’s Tourism Small ships like those in the Alaskan Dream fleet play a critical role in Alaska’s tourism economy. Their ability to navigate tight spaces and access remote locations allows travelers to experience parts of Alaska that would otherwise remain untouched. Personalized itineraries, flexible schedules, and the chance to interact more closely with nature and local communities make small-ship cruising a popular choice for many tourists. Activities such as kayaking, wildlife watching, and hiking become more accessible on these agile vessels, adding to the overall appeal of the experience.
The closure of Alaskan Dream creates a noticeable gap in this niche market. With fewer small vessels operating in Alaska, the options for travelers seeking intimate, personalized cruises are dwindling. While the fleet’s U.S.-flagged status may make these ships appealing to certain operators, their age and the costs associated with maintaining such older vessels could make them challenging to resell or repurpose.
The Uncertain Future of the Fleet Currently, all four vessels are sitting idle at the port of Sitka, waiting for a decision on their future. It remains unclear whether they will be sold, repurposed for another use, or retired altogether. While their design features—such as shallow drafts and maneuverable hulls—could make them attractive to operators in the small-ship cruising sector, the vessels are aging and will require substantial investment to bring them back into service. The challenge will be balancing their potential with the costs and maintenance demands of keeping these ships operational.
The sudden end of Alaskan Dream’s operations marks the end of an era for small-ship cruising in Alaska. For years, these vessels offered a unique and flexible way for tourists to explore the state’s natural beauty. As the ships remain inactive, their uncertain future reflects the challenges of operating specialized small vessels in Alaska’s unpredictable maritime conditions.
Charleston Festival 2026, scheduled to run from May 13 to May 25, promises to be an unforgettable celebration of art, literature, music, and performance, bringing together some of the most influential voices from around the world. Held in the beautiful village of Firle, East Sussex, the festival will take place at Charleston in Firle, the historic home and studio of legendary artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant. Known for its rich cultural heritage and as the meeting point for the Bloomsbury Group, this festival continues the legacy of creative thinking and artistic experimentation that has defined Charleston for generations.
Charleston’s place in artistic history cannot be overstated. In the early 20th century, Bell, Grant, and other key figures of the Bloomsbury Group used Charleston as their base for intellectual exchange, artistic expression, and revolutionary ideas. Today, Charleston remains an essential cultural hub, offering a platform for contemporary thinkers and artists to explore new ways of engaging with society through art. Charleston Festival 2026 carries forward this tradition, providing an opportunity for artists, writers, performers, and visitors alike to come together, exchange ideas, and be inspired.
In addition to the flagship festival at Charleston in Firle, the newly opened Charleston in Lewes offers a dynamic cultural space with year-round exhibitions, artist-led workshops, and community-driven projects. Whether you’re visiting for the festival or exploring the center at any other time of year, Charleston remains a living, breathing celebration of the power of art to provoke new ways of thinking and living.
What to Expect from Charleston Festival 2026
The Charleston Festival 2026 will feature a stellar lineup of visionary artists, writers, musicians, and intellectuals, offering a diverse and intellectually stimulating program. From live performances and musical showcases to author talks and thought-provoking discussions, the festival promises to explore a broad range of themes. Here’s a preview of some of the remarkable figures you can expect to see at Charleston Festival 2026:
Kae Tempest: The Revolutionary Spoken Word Artist
Kae Tempest, a poet, spoken word performer, and novelist, will bring their bold, genre-defying art to Charleston Festival 2026. Tempest is widely recognized for their ability to blend music, poetry, and performance into powerful works that challenge societal norms and explore themes of identity, personal struggle, and social change. As the youngest poet to win the Ted Hughes Award, Tempest’s participation in the festival will provide a unique opportunity to experience the power of spoken word as a medium for personal and collective transformation. Expect an electrifying performance that challenges how we think about language and its role in shaping culture.
Jennifer Saunders: An Icon of British Comedy
Jennifer Saunders, the writer, actor, and comedian, will share her insights on comedy and her incredible career in a special session at the festival. Best known for creating and starring in the iconic sitcom Absolutely Fabulous, Saunders has had an indelible impact on British comedy. Through her work with French & Saunders, she revolutionized sketch comedy and continues to be a beloved figure in the industry. At the Charleston Festival, Saunders will reflect on her creative journey, exploring how humor can address serious cultural issues and bring laughter to the most challenging conversations.
Sheku Kanneh-Mason: A Masterclass in Classical Music
Sheku Kanneh-Mason, the celebrated cellist, will bring his remarkable talent to the Charleston stage in 2026. Kanneh-Mason made history as the first Black musician to win the prestigious BBC Young Musician competition and has since become one of classical music’s brightest stars. His performance at the festival will be a treat for music lovers, offering a chance to experience the virtuosity and emotional depth of his playing. In addition to his performance, Kanneh-Mason will share his journey as an artist and discuss the role of classical music in bringing people together across cultural divides.
Philippe Sands KC: Human Rights, Law, and Art
Philippe Sands KC, a distinguished human rights barrister and author, will join the festival to discuss his latest book, 38 Londres Street: On Pinochet in England and a Nazi in Patagonia. Sands has spent his career fighting for justice in international law and human rights, and his work is particularly focused on addressing the legacies of war and violence. At the festival, Sands will explore how law, art, and literature intersect, discussing how creative works can help us understand and address the complexities of human rights and justice.
Tayari Jones: A Literary Voice for Our Times
Tayari Jones, the internationally acclaimed author of An American Marriage, will engage festival-goers with a talk about her bestselling novel, which won the Women’s Prize for Fiction in 2019. Jones’ writing explores themes of race, love, and identity, as well as the systemic forces that shape personal relationships. Her session at Charleston will offer a deep dive into the creative process behind her work, as well as the role that literature plays in examining social justice issues. Jones’ insights into writing and storytelling will resonate with readers and writers alike.
Irvine Welsh: A Literary Rebel
Irvine Welsh, the Scottish author of the iconic novel Trainspotting, will be a major draw for festival attendees. Welsh’s exploration of addiction, youth culture, and societal alienation made an indelible impact on both literature and cinema. As a leading voice in contemporary fiction, Welsh’s work resonates deeply with themes of social disillusionment and rebellion. At Charleston, Welsh will reflect on his writing journey and discuss the cultural relevance of his work in today’s society. Expect a candid, thought-provoking session from one of literature’s most controversial figures.
Accessibility and Sustainability at Charleston Festival 2026
Charleston is committed to ensuring that the Charleston Festival 2026 is accessible to everyone. Despite being set in a rural location, the festival organizers have worked hard to make the venue as accessible as possible for people with mobility challenges. Key features include:
Wheelchair-accessible seating in both the Festival Tent and Orchard Tent.
Shuttle buses running from Lewes train station to the festival grounds, with wheelchair access available.
Accessible toilets located throughout the festival site, including near the main car park, cafes, and galleries.
Assistance dogs welcome at all festival events and spaces.
In addition to accessibility, Charleston is deeply committed to sustainability. All food vendors will use compostable materials for food packaging, and visitors are encouraged to use the compost bins placed throughout the festival grounds. By prioritizing environmental responsibility, Charleston is ensuring that the festival has a positive impact on both visitors and the planet.
Food and Drink: A Feast for the Senses
At the Charleston Festival, visitors can enjoy a range of delicious food and drink options that reflect the best of local produce and sustainable eating:
The Café will offer a selection of barista-made coffee, fresh pastries, and light lunches.
The Hay Barn will feature a seasonal salad bar, with locally-sourced ingredients and a range of fresh, healthy options.
The Yard will host a BBQ grill, offering a variety of meat, veggie, and vegan options.
The Paddock will feature independent food vendors such as Specs and Bear, serving melting raclette on dishes like mac and cheese and brisket, and Bun Catering, offering a range of plant-based burgers.
Becoming a Festival Friend: Unlock Exclusive Access
For those who want to make the most of their Charleston Festival 2026 experience, the Festival Friend membership offers a range of exclusive benefits:
Priority booking for the festival’s most popular events.
Free year-round access to Charleston in Firle and Charleston in Lewes.
Invitations to exclusive Friend events, where you can enjoy behind-the-scenes access to the festival’s highlights.
Regular email updates with the latest news about the festival and upcoming events.
Membership is available through direct debit, and as a UK taxpayer, members can opt into Gift Aid, allowing Charleston to claim tax relief on the membership fee.
Conclusion: Charleston Festival 2026—An Experience Not to Be Missed
The Charleston Festival 2026 is set to be an incredible celebration of art, culture, and ideas. With a lineup featuring some of the world’s most prominent artists, writers, and performers, the festival promises to be a thought-provoking and enriching experience. Whether you’re drawn to spoken word, comedy, classical music, or literary discussions, there will be something for everyone.
Held at Charleston in Firle and Charleston in Lewes, the festival is located in one of England’s most picturesque regions, making it an ideal destination for both culture and relaxation. Join us for Charleston Festival 2026, and be part of an event that celebrates creativity, challenges conventional thinking, and inspires new ways of engaging with the world around us.
Event Locations:
Charleston in Firle, East Sussex, UK
Charleston in Lewes, East Sussex, UK (new cultural center)
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this unforgettable cultural experience—book your tickets early and secure your place at one of the most exciting festivals of the year!
US has joined Mexico, Türkiye, Italy, Morocco, the UK, India, Vietnam, Japan, and Georgia in advancing tourism, careers, and community resilience because the Hilton Global Foundation has committed more than five million dollars to a wide-ranging global funding program designed to strengthen hospitality skills, support vulnerable communities, and drive sustainable tourism growth across multiple regions. Through its largest annual investment to date, the foundation is channeling funds into 18 nonprofit organizations worldwide, targeting workforce development, youth employment, food security, clean water access, and environmental sustainability, while positioning tourism as a powerful engine for economic stability, social inclusion, and long-term community resilience in both developed and emerging destinations.
This year’s grants focus on three critical pillars: opening doors to hospitality careers, strengthening community resilience, and championing environmental sustainability. From providing clean water and nutritious meals to building pathways for youth to thrive in tourism and hospitality, these programs are designed to create tangible, lasting change. Collectively, the initiatives will deliver over 170,000 learning and career opportunities, provide daily drinking water to more than 12,000 people, distribute over 400,000 meals to community members in need, and prevent nearly 350,000 pounds of carbon emissions.
United States: Building the Future of Hospitality
In the United States, Hilton Global Foundation funding is powering programs that connect communities with hospitality careers while fostering social empowerment. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) is launching a new mentoring program under its Big Futures initiative, helping youth aged 16–25 explore hospitality careers, develop vital skills, and gain access to meaningful job opportunities. This initiative ensures that the next generation is prepared to step into tourism and hospitality roles with confidence and purpose.
The International Youth Foundation (IYF) in Mexico is advancing its JuventudES 2.0 initiative, equipping 350 young people with job-readiness training, personalized guidance, and direct connections to tourism and hospitality employers. This effort not only strengthens local economies but also fosters social inclusion, reducing barriers to meaningful employment.
In Orlando, Florida, The WASH Foundation continues its Fresh Start WASH & Wellness Mobile Shower Program, delivering dignity and hygiene services to people experiencing homelessness. HGF funding guarantees that mobile showers, hygiene kits, and wellness support reach those who need them most.
Hospitality Hub in Memphis, Tennessee, is developing Hub North, a trauma-informed campus designed to help more than 100 families annually achieve stability, independence, and access to housing, employment, and essential care.
Empowered Network is expanding economic mobility for survivors of human trafficking, offering workforce development, financial planning, and prevention programs across U.S. communities.
DC Central Kitchen in Washington, D.C., will support 165 individuals experiencing homelessness, incarceration, addiction, or trauma through Culinary Job Training classes, equipping them with skills to secure stable, living-wage hospitality jobs.
National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is piloting a hospitality employment program in Washington, D.C. and Atlanta, Georgia, to create nationwide pathways for individuals with Down syndrome, proving that tourism can be inclusive, empowering, and transformative.
Asia Pacific: Skills, Sustainability, and Opportunity
In Asia Pacific, Hilton Global Foundation funding is creating a new generation of tourism and hospitality leaders while addressing environmental challenges. Planet Water Foundation is installing an AquaTower filtration system at a school, delivering clean water and hygiene education to students and surrounding communities.
In Japan, Hands On Tokyo is empowering more than 95 individuals with disabilities through volunteerism, skills training, and hands-on hospitality experiences, including food truck operations and Career Day sessions connecting participants to employers.
Ocean Purpose Project in Singapore is pioneering ocean conservation through seaweed bioremediation, plastic-to-hydrogen technology, and environmental education. HGF support will launch the Beach Hub to Clean Seas initiative, diverting 10,000 pounds of waste annually while creating over 2,500 learning and career opportunities.
In Vietnam, STREETS International is expanding access to its 14-month residential hospitality program for vulnerable youth, including those who are orphaned, trafficked, or out of school, equipping participants with culinary skills, life skills, and English language training.
Tourism & Hospitality Skills Council (THSC) in India is training 1,080 young people through certified programs, offering job placement assistance and opening doors to long-term careers in hospitality.
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Asia Pacific is advancing food security and sustainable food systems through the Circular Food Future Global Initiative, reducing waste and promoting sustainability across tourism and hospitality markets in Southeast Asia and Latin America.
Europe, Middle East, and Africa: Food, Skills, and Empowerment
In the United Kingdom, The Felix Project is rescuing surplus food and redistributing it while offering culinary apprenticeships for youth facing barriers to employment. HGF funding will expand the Commis Chef Apprenticeship Program, delivering over 400,000 meals, preventing more than 200 tons of food waste, and strengthening local tourism and hospitality capacity.
Fondation Marocaine de l’Éducation pour l’Emploi in Morocco is launching the TALENT initiative, training 4,600 youth in digital, soft, and hospitality skills, placing 330 graduates in jobs, supporting 40 entrepreneurs, engaging youth in environmental action, and benefiting over 20,000 people.
In Kenya, Mukuru Promotion Centre (MPC) is expanding vocational training to equip youth with job-ready skills and pathways to sustainable employment, fostering economic resilience in local communities.
Italy’s PizzAut is expanding its food truck initiative and renovating housing to create sustainable employment for 30 individuals with autism, promoting independence, inclusion, and public awareness while reducing reliance on institutional care.
Finally, in Türkiye, Türkiye Down Syndrome Association (TDSD) is scaling its Supported Career Program, offering hospitality training and job placement for individuals with disabilities, promoting independence and social inclusion.
Driving Global Tourism Transformation
The Hilton Global Foundation’s $5.4 million initiative demonstrates a powerful, integrated approach to sustainable tourism, combining workforce development, social empowerment, and environmental action. By creating pathways for youth, supporting underserved populations, reducing food waste, and expanding access to clean water, these programs are redefining the role of tourism as a driver of positive change.
Communities across the United States, Mexico, Türkiye, Italy, Morocco, Kenya, UK, India, Vietnam, Singapore, Japan, and Georgia are now actively shaping the future of hospitality and tourism, demonstrating that travel can be inclusive, responsible, and transformative. Each project reflects Hilton’s vision of a global tourism ecosystem that empowers people, strengthens communities, and protects the planet.
From mentorship programs in the United States to ocean conservation in Singapore, from culinary apprenticeships in the UK to youth hospitality training in Vietnam and India, Hilton’s initiatives are proving that tourism can create measurable impact while nurturing skills, fostering independence, and advancing environmental stewardship.
By connecting over 170,000 individuals to learning and career opportunities, providing 400,000 meals, ensuring access to clean water, and reducing carbon emissions, the Hilton Global Foundation is setting a new standard for purpose-driven tourism. These programs show that hospitality is more than a service—it is a catalyst for economic, social, and environmental transformation.
The US has joined Mexico, Türkiye, Italy, Morocco, the UK, India, Vietnam, Japan, and Georgia in advancing tourism, careers, and community resilience because the Hilton Global Foundation has committed over five million dollars to its largest global funding initiative to date. The investment supports hospitality skills development, youth employment, community stability, and sustainability programs, positioning tourism as a driver of inclusive growth and long-term impact.
As Hilton expands these efforts, the foundation is shaping global tourism standards, emphasizing sustainability, inclusion, and skill-building, and demonstrating how responsible hospitality can empower communities and change lives worldwide.
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