Island of Ireland Emerges As High‑Interest, Food‑Forward Escape In New Tourism Ireland Sentiment Research

The Island of Ireland has become an international travel destination which research demonstrates through people showing their desire to visit and their developing interest in its culinary traditions and natural scenery and its relaxed lifestyle. Holidaymakers who evaluated Ireland as a travel destination described the country as a place that enables visitors to relax their bodies while they enjoy quality food from the moment they enter the country.

Strong interest and a hunger for exploration

Tourism Ireland’s latest Overseas Sentiment Research, carried out with RED C in November and December, surveyed more than 8,000 potential holidaymakers across eight key markets: Great Britain, the United States, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Canada and the Netherlands. Over 70 percent of respondents expressed interest in visiting the island of Ireland at some point, with intention to travel within the next two years and active planning levels described as stable, suggesting solid medium‑term demand.

Exploration emerged as the leading holiday need, cited by 79 percent of those surveyed, underlining the appeal of itineraries that involve touring, discovery and getting under the skin of local culture. The ability to disconnect came through as the second most influential factor in destination choice, with 67 percent saying they look for places where they can switch off from everyday pressures, a space where Ireland’s quiet roads, coastal walks and small towns are seen as a natural fit.

Value for money and the pull of landscapes

Perceptions of value remain central, with around half of potential visitors believing they will find good value for money on the island of Ireland, broadly in line with or ahead of other Northern European destinations such as England, Norway and Switzerland. Some Southern European destinations continue to be regarded as stronger on value, but previous visitors to Ireland were more likely to rate their stay as good value, indicating that the on‑the‑ground experience can exceed expectations and leave people feeling the trip was worth the spend.

Beautiful landscapes remain the single biggest reason people say they consider the island of Ireland for a future holiday, particularly among travellers from Germany, France and the Netherlands. Respondents associated Ireland with dramatic coastlines, rolling green countryside and scenery that lends itself naturally to road trips, hiking and slow touring across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Where visitors stay and how they get inspired

Hotels continue to attract the highest overall consideration, but the research shows that B&Bs, guesthouses and rental properties play an important role, especially for countryside breaks and longer stays where visitors want a homely base and local contact. This mix suggests that visitors are open to combining city hotels with more intimate rural stays, creating itineraries that move between Dublin or Belfast and smaller coastal or inland communities.

Word of mouth remains influential as travellers choose where to go, but digital channels are now firmly embedded in the inspiration phase. Online search was cited by 37 percent of respondents as a key source, while social media and TV or film were each mentioned by 23 percent, underlining the power of evocative imagery, short‑form video and screen portrayals of the island. Around one third of potential visitors had experimented with AI tools for trip research, and 11 percent reported using them regularly, indicating that AI‑driven planning is becoming a growing influence on destination decisions.​

Food, drink and the chance to tell a richer story

Food is now central to destination choice, with 70 percent of potential overseas visitors naming it as a factor in how they decide where to go on holiday. More than 70 percent expect that food on the island of Ireland will be good, with especially strong expectations in the United States (90 percent) and Great Britain (83 percent), suggesting that many travellers already imagine warming pub dishes, quality local produce and a convivial dining scene.

Expectations are more modest in Mediterranean markets, where confidence in Irish food sits closer to 60 percent, but Tourism Ireland views this as an opportunity to reshape perceptions. The research found that potential visitors most often associate the island with farm‑to‑fork food, pub dishes and home‑cooked traditional fare, while there is room to spotlight seafood and the diversity of contemporary culinary experiences, from coastal shellfish shacks to chef‑driven city restaurants.

Using insights to shape future trips to Ireland

Tourism Ireland’s Chief Executive, Alice Mansergh, said the organisation regarded the findings as confirmation that exploration, the wish to disconnect and the island’s landscapes remain powerful drivers of choice for overseas holidaymakers, and that food offers significant scope for future storytelling as part of a memorable, almost magical trip. She indicated that, although value for money continues to be a concern for many travellers, those who have already visited tend to view the experience more favourably, reinforcing the need to highlight quality and authenticity across the visitor journey.

The organization intends to apply its research findings for optimal marketing improvement across key markets which will involve close collaboration with airlines ferry companies international tour operators and regional business partners to convert customer interest into confirmed travel reservations. The future visitor experience will improve through customized marketing initiatives which deliver authentic food and landscape stories together with straightforward access to itineraries that provide daytime exploration and nighttime Irish hospitality experiences to help them envision their upcoming visits to the island of Ireland.

The post Island of Ireland Emerges As High‑Interest, Food‑Forward Escape In New Tourism Ireland Sentiment Research appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Royal Caribbean Unveiled Its New Smart Glasses Rules Aim To Give Passengers More Privacy At Sea

Royal Caribbean introduced its smart glasses policy creates peaceful onboard experiences which travellers to Caribbean, Mediterranean and Alaskan destinations want to experience. The line has updated its prohibited items guidance to restrict the use of wearable eyewear with built‑in video and audio recording in a number of sensitive public spaces. The new security measures at the airport allow guests to enjoy their holiday without any concerns about being recorded without their knowledge.

What has changed in Royal Caribbean’s smart glasses policy?

Royal Caribbean’s official prohibited‑items page now specifies that smart glasses from various manufacturers which can record video and audio may not be used in certain areas onboard. These include public restrooms, youth programme areas, medical facilities and casino spaces, all places where the company says privacy and security must be paramount.

The cruise line stresses that this is not an outright ban on bringing such eyewear on a cruise; guests may still carry smart glasses and use them in non‑restricted areas, as long as they respect the rules in the clearly designated zones. The responsibility for enforcement lies with chief security officers and senior ship staff, who are authorised to remove or temporarily hold any device that breaches the terms.

How the rules benefit passengers and families

For families making the most of sea days, the clearest benefit is around children’s spaces and youth clubs. By blocking the use of recording‑enabled glasses in youth programme zones, Royal Caribbean aims to create a safer environment where parents can feel more at ease about their children joining group activities without being covertly filmed by strangers.​

Adults, too, stand to gain from a more relaxed atmosphere. In restrooms, medical centres and wellness areas, the updated rules are designed to reduce the unease that discreet recording devices can generate, especially when they look almost identical to ordinary spectacles. In the casino, the company is signalling that both fair play and a sense of discretion are part of the overall onboard experience, something many cruisers value when choosing a line for a special holiday.

A tourism angle: making ships feel more like resorts

Royal Caribbean’s stance aligns with a broader travel and tourism trend in which resorts, airlines and other cruise lines are tightening rules on covert recording technology. MSC Cruises, for example, has already barred smart glasses from all public areas on its ships, allowing them only in cabins, ashore and other non‑public spaces in order to preserve a calm, resort‑style ambience. Industry observers have noted that many holidaymakers want the freedom to take photos and videos with obvious devices such as smartphones, while still feeling that more discreet tech is kept in check.

For Royal Caribbean, the message is that its ships should feel like floating resorts where fellow guests can mingle, sunbathe, dance and dine without constantly worrying about being unknowingly featured in someone’s wearable tech feed. By tightening rules around smart glasses rather than cameras in general, the company is trying to strike a balance between embracing innovation and protecting the sense of escape that draws so many people to cruising in the first place.

Practical guidance for passengers and prescription users

The cruise line advises guests who wear prescription smart glasses to pack a second pair of non‑recording eyewear for use in the restricted areas, so that day‑to‑day life onboard is not disrupted. Travellers who rely on wearable technology for accessibility are encouraged on external industry sites to contact the line in advance, so that any needs can be discussed before boarding. Royal Caribbean has not published a detailed list of affected brands or models, instead stating that the rules apply broadly to any device capable of capturing images or sound.

Online discussions show that regular cruisers expect more ships to establish identical operational limits because they believe clearly defined rules which crew members communicate effectively will help everyone enter vacation mode. The Royal Caribbean cruise line currently informs passengers who want to travel to the Caribbean Mediterranean Northern Europe or other destinations that they need only additional glasses to experience the newest ships while safeguarding other passengers’ personal information.

The post Royal Caribbean Unveiled Its New Smart Glasses Rules Aim To Give Passengers More Privacy At Sea appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Le Commandant Charcot’s Australian Debut Supercharges Luxury Cruise Tourism: Here’s What You Need To Know

The local residents who assembled at Hobart’s waterfront watched Le Commandant Charcot sail into the Tasmanian capital at 4:15pm AEST on Saturday 14 February which marked the ship’s first appearance in Australia and brought significant benefits to the country’s cruise tourism development. The arrival of PONANT EXPLORATIONS’ flagship polar vessel after a half-circumnavigation of Antarctica from Ushuaia is being framed by industry leaders as a defining moment for positioning Hobart and by extension Australia, as a serious high-end gateway to the White Continent.

Defining moment for Australia’s polar cruise network

PONANT EXPLORATIONS’ Asia Pacific CEO Deb Corbett characterised the maiden Australian call as a watershed for Antarctic tourism, noting that with Australia now firmly woven into the line’s most ambitious itineraries, Hobart stands to play a strategic role in future polar deployment. The brand is already known for its small‑ship luxury expeditions, and integrating Hobart into the operational map of Le Commandant Charcot gives local stakeholders access to some of the most exclusive itineraries in the global cruise market.

Industry observers view the call as more than a one‑off visit, instead describing it as the start of a new chapter in cruise networking that will link Tasmanian ports with remote Antarctic regions such as Adélie Land, Wilkes Land, the Shackleton Ice Shelf and Queen Mary Land. Such routing not only diversifies the cruise offering out of Australia but also encourages longer stays, higher‑value shore spending and stronger integration with local operators and scientific institutions.

From Ushuaia to Hobart: a prestigious Antarctic highway

Le Commandant Charcot’s arrival in Hobart capped a rare half‑circumnavigation from Ushuaia through some of East Antarctica’s least‑visited stretches, an itinerary usually associated with scientific or government vessels rather than passenger ships. By completing this route on a commercial voyage with paying guests, PONANT EXPLORATIONS has effectively mapped a prestigious Antarctic “highway” linking South America and Tasmania, with Hobart as a natural hinge between hemispheres.

The vessel’s presence also underscores Hobart’s evolving role alongside ports such as Ushuaia and Lyttelton as an operational base for polar logistics and tourism, supported by its existing Antarctic research community and infrastructure. Local tourism planners suggest this can translate into pre‑ and post‑cruise itineraries across Tasmania, from food and wine regions to wilderness experiences, creating a more layered visitor economy rather than a simple embark‑disembark stop.

2028 circumnavigation: Hobart as the pivot

Looking ahead, PONANT EXPLORATIONS has opened bookings for what it describes as its most ambitious Antarctic itinerary yet: a 62‑day circumnavigation of the continent in early 2028, operated roundtrip from Ushuaia on Le Commandant Charcot. The voyage will span roughly 14,300 miles and is split into two sellable legs, with Hobart acting as the pivotal midpoint, first as the terminus of a 30‑day Ushuaia–Hobart segment, then as the departure port for a 31‑day Hobart–Ushuaia return via Eastern Antarctica.

For Australia’s cruise network this structure is highly significant, as it effectively anchors Hobart within a marquee global expedition that visits coveted regions including the Ross Sea, Charcot Island, Marie Byrd Land, the Balleny Islands and other rarely accessed coasts. Travel planners expect that the stopover – currently designed as a three‑day window – will encourage fly‑in guests, encourage Australian travellers to join or leave the voyage in Tasmania, and stimulate premium hotel, touring and dining demand in and around Hobart.

A luxury icebreaker tailored to modern travellers

Delivered in 2021, Le Commandant Charcot has been promoted by PONANT as the first hybrid‑electric polar exploration vessel powered by liquefied natural gas, blending serious icebreaking capability with the comfort expected of a five‑star resort. The ship carries around 245 guests in balcony staterooms and suites, supported by multiple restaurants, lounges, a spa with snow room and indoor pool, and extensive scientific facilities that allow collaboration with researchers during voyages.

Travel specialists point out that this elevated onboard environment positions Hobart to welcome high‑spend expedition guests, many of whom may extend their travels across mainland Australia before or after their polar journey. In tourism terms, Le Commandant Charcot’s design represents a bridge between classic expedition travel and ultra‑luxury cruising, a segment that destination marketers in Australia have been eager to attract to diversify beyond mass‑market ship calls.

Personal ties, shared ambitions and a boost for Australian tourism

At the helm for the Hobart arrival was Captain Stanislas Devorsine, who was reported to have reflected on a deeply personal milestone, recalling his years in Hobart and his decade commanding the French icebreaker L’Astrolabe within the long‑standing French–Australian Antarctic partnership. He also indicated that since contributing his icebreaker experience during the design phase of Le Commandant Charcot in 2018, seeing the ship now poised to undertake a full Antarctic circumnavigation felt like a turning point in modern polar exploration, a sentiment that resonates strongly with local tourism aspirations.

The emotional homecoming of a captain with historic ties to Hobart and the low-emission luxury icebreaker and the future circumnavigation voyages function as more than a schedule update because they create a story which connects shared goals and collective exploration. The tourism bodies believe this story will attract new visitors who will begin their Antarctic journey at Australian coastal areas.

The post Le Commandant Charcot’s Australian Debut Supercharges Luxury Cruise Tourism: Here’s What You Need To Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Khamas Hospitality Names Gurbani Chanana Cluster Director Of Marketing And PR To Power Tourism-Led Growth In Dubai, UAE

The Khamas Hospitality group operates hotels in Dubai and the UK and Italy, which will implement a new storytelling method after they selected Gurbani Chanana as their new Cluster Director of Marketing and PR. She will use her fifteen years of experience in hospitality and food and beverage and lifestyle brands to develop the visitor experience at the group’s urban and castle and lakeside properties.

Khamas Hospitality, established and headquartered in Dubai, has grown into one of the region’s leading hotel management entities, with a portfolio that spans the UAE, Italy and the United Kingdom. The group positions itself around service excellence, exceptional dining and superior amenities, promising “all the comforts of home” to guests whether they visit for work or leisure.

Strengthening a growing international portfolio

The new appointment comes as Khamas Hospitality continues expanding its footprint with new hotels and branded residences in key destinations. Its current portfolio includes Dubai favourites such as The Canvas Hotel Dubai, an MGallery by Accor in the heart of the city, Royal Ascot Hotel, Sea View Hotel, Ascot Hotel and lifestyle-focused Mama Shelter Dubai, alongside DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai, Al Jadaf.

Beyond the UAE, the group also manages the storybook Thornbury Castle in the UK and the waterfront Grand Hotel Campione in Italy, both appealing to travellers seeking immersive, sense-of-place experiences. Upcoming projects, including Courtyard by Marriott JVC and Ritz Carlton Residences Business Bay in Dubai, are set to deepen its presence in the city’s competitive hospitality and tourism landscape.

Industry observers suggested that by consolidating marketing and PR across this multi-country portfolio, the new role is designed to deliver a more unified brand voice that resonates with international travellers and trade partners.

Experience rooted in hospitality and lifestyle travel

Chanana’s background spans hospitality brands, destination dining and lifestyle concepts, giving her a grounded understanding of how guests choose hotels, restaurants and experiences when planning trips. She has led multi‑channel campaigns, brand launches and repositioning initiatives that have delivered measurable growth and enhanced market presence for regional hospitality brands.​

Before joining Khamas Hospitality, she worked as Marketing Manager at Super Eats Investment, overseeing marketing for multiple award‑recognised dining concepts, including brands listed in the Michelin Guide. Her remit included PR strategy, influencer collaborations, digital marketing and experiential activations that drew diners and tourists to high‑profile restaurants.​

Earlier in her career, she held a senior marketing role with Al Habtoor Hospitality in Dubai, where she directed integrated marketing campaigns across F&B outlets and hotel services such as dining, banquets, spa and events. Colleagues are understood to have highlighted her ability to optimise marketing spend while supporting revenue growth across several hospitality verticals, positioning her as a commercially minded marketer with a strong feel for guest behaviour.

​Tourism-focused mandate across UAE, UK and Italy

In her new role, Chanana will oversee cluster-wide marketing and PR strategy for Khamas Hospitality’s portfolio, aligning brand positioning and guest engagement with the group’s growth ambitions in the UAE and abroad. The brief includes shaping integrated campaigns that highlight the diversity of its destinations: from heritage-rich Bur Dubai, with quick access to the Gold & Spice Souqs and Dubai Creek via The Canvas Hotel Dubai, to beachside stays, lifestyle hubs and European escapes in England and Italy.

Travel trade sources indicated that she is expected to focus on creating stronger narratives around each property’s locale, promoting shopping, art, architecture, adventure and nightlife in line with the brand’s promise to help guests enjoy all of it during their stay. By tying hotel stays more closely to local experiences, the group aims to attract both international tourists and staycationers looking for curated itineraries across its properties.

Her appointment also signals continued investment by Khamas Hospitality in seasoned marketing leadership capable of blending creative storytelling with data‑driven execution and measurable impact. Industry commentators noted that such roles are increasingly central to how hotel groups capture demand from emerging source markets, digital‑first travellers and experience‑focused guests.

Boosting the wider hospitality and tourism ecosystem

Within Dubai’s competitive hospitality market, where new hotels and branded residences are rapidly reshaping the skyline, Khamas Hospitality’s refreshed marketing leadership is expected to amplify the visibility of its mid‑scale, upscale and luxury offerings. By highlighting its hotels’ proximity to major attractions such as Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, historic Bastakiya and the city’s waterfront districts, the group is poised to play a more active role in attracting travellers who want to combine urban exploration with comfortable, characterful stays.

Travel professionals suggested that stronger, coordinated campaigns across the group’s Dubai, UK and Italy properties could encourage multi‑destination itineraries, with guests pairing a city break in Dubai with a castle stay in England or a lakeside escape in Italy. This kind of cross‑portfolio storytelling not only supports Khamas Hospitality’s growth, they said, but also contributes to the broader tourism ecosystem by lengthening stays, increasing repeat visitation and driving higher overall spending in key markets.

The ongoing development of Dubai as a worldwide tourism center will proceed with Khamas Hospitality building two new properties which include Courtyard by Marriott JVC and Ritz Carlton Residences Business Bay. The organization seeks to create hotel experiences for its guests that go beyond mere accommodation through its latest leadership appointment which will improve their travel connection to Dubai and the English countryside and the Italian lakes.

Image Credit: Royal Ascot Hotel by Khamas Hospitality

The post Khamas Hospitality Names Gurbani Chanana Cluster Director Of Marketing And PR To Power Tourism-Led Growth In Dubai, UAE appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Türkiye Set To Expand Its Sports Tourism Sector Beyond Football: Everything You Need To Know

Antalya and Erzurum are set to welcome a growing wave of travellers who want more than a beach or city break from their time in Türkiye, as the country moves decisively to turn sports into a year-round tourism engine. Visitors who once came mainly for summer sun or city sightseeing are now being courted with promises of world-class cycling routes, snow-sure ski slopes and pristine golf courses that keep resorts buzzing even in the depths of winter.

Türkiye is rolling out a broad strategy to diversify sports tourism beyond football, with plans covering 12 disciplines from cycling and golf to winter sports and emerging activities such as padel. Officials and industry leaders see this as a way to tap into a global sector that already represents around 10 percent of all tourism activity worldwide, compared with just 1.5 percent of Türkiye’s current tourism mix.

A national plan to grow a year‑round sports hub

The Turkish Sports Tourism Association has outlined an ambitious roadmap to showcase facilities across the country and attract more international athletes, teams and amateur enthusiasts. Its president, Nida Kiraz, has indicated that collaboration between the government and private sector will be essential if Türkiye is to claim a larger share of global sports tourism.​

Authorities are positioning sports as a pillar of sustainable tourism, alongside the country’s established strengths in culture, city breaks and coastal holidays. With Istanbul and Antalya already among the world’s most visited cities, extending stays and spreading visitor numbers into shoulder and winter seasons is seen as a natural next step.

​Antalya: cycling, golf and Europe’s biggest sports tourism fair

Antalya, long known as a Mediterranean favourite for beach holidays and all‑inclusive resorts, is now being recast as a base for active travellers and professional training camps. The city will host what is billed as Europe’s largest sports tourism fair from 31 May to 3 June, bringing leading sports companies, tour operators and destination managers together on the Turquoise Coast.

Cycling sits at the centre of this new identity, with Antalya emerging as a key destination as the sport’s popularity surges globally. In 2026, the region will stage three major events, the Tour of Antalya, a Gran Fondo and the Padelia event, which are expected to draw both elite riders and amateurs looking to combine racing with a holiday in the sun. Golf is also thriving, with courses in and around Antalya reported to be fully booked, turning what used to be quiet winter months into a lucrative season for hotels, caddies and local businesses.​

Winter sports: Uludağ, Erciyes and Erzurum’s Palandöken

On the winter side, Türkiye is promoting its mountain regions as an alternative to more crowded European ski hubs, highlighting both value and variety. Uludağ, near Bursa and within easy reach of Istanbul, is described as the country’s oldest and most popular ski resort, with snow typically covering the mountain from December to May and a modern cable car linking visitors to its hotels and pistes.

Further inland, Mount Erciyes in Central Anatolia offers dramatic volcanic scenery, long runs and reliable snow for skiing and snowboarding, appealing to travellers who want to combine a city stay with days on the slopes. In Erzurum, Palandöken Mountain has become one of Türkiye’s leading winter sports centres, with a ski season that can stretch to six months, night skiing, steep trails and powder conditions that have already convinced international organisers to bring major events to the region. These high-altitude resorts are being bundled into winter holiday packages that encourage visitors to stay longer, mixing skiing with local culture and cuisine.

Keeping hotels open and communities working through winter

Industry representatives have underlined how sports tourism is changing the rhythm of the tourism year in destinations like Antalya and Erzurum. Months once considered the dead season from December to February are now seeing rising numbers of athletes, amateur sports groups and active travellers, filling hotel rooms that previously sat empty and supporting jobs in hospitality, transport and guiding.

Sports tourism is being described as a crucial tool for maintaining employment continuity, allowing hotels to keep staff on year-round rather than relying on short, intense seasonal contracts. Local communities in mountain towns and coastal resorts alike benefit when restaurants, rental shops and small businesses can plan for steady winter trade instead of abrupt closures.

A richer, more active way to experience Türkiye

For travellers, Türkiye’s push into sports tourism promises a more layered and personal experience of the country, whether that means pedalling along the coast near Antalya, carving fresh tracks on the slopes of Uludağ or soaking up Erzurum’s high‑altitude air after a day on Palandöken. Visitors who might once have flown in for a few days on the beach or a quick city break are increasingly being invited to stay longer, train harder and explore deeper, discovering local traditions and warm hospitality along the way.

Türkiye aims to create new tourist facilities through its investments in various sports venues which include velodromes and Olympic complexes together with ski resorts and golf courses. The aspiration is for visitors to leave with more than just photographs because they will bring back experiences of shared transportation with others and their time spent descending snowy slopes together with newly developed friendships which began during their post-game dining experiences. The tourism industry believes that using sports as a core element of travel in Antalya and Erzurum and Uludağ and Erciyes will create a sustainable visitor economy which benefits both tourists and local residents.

The post Türkiye Set To Expand Its Sports Tourism Sector Beyond Football: Everything You Need To Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Frosty nights, Snow And Ice: Urgent UK Travel Alert As Forecasters Warn Of Dangerous Conditions!

The United Kingdom is preparing for a winter storm that will bring snow, ice and frosty nights conditions, which will create travel disruptions at popular tourist sites throughout the country. Travelers who had hoped for milder late‑February conditions are instead being urged to wrap up warm, allow extra journey time and stay alert to rapidly changing weather as temperatures dip below average for the time of year.

The Met Office headline for the period highlights sunny spells and blustery showers, turning colder, signalling a mixed but increasingly wintry pattern.

Tonight: snow in northern Scotland, ice widely

Snow will continue to fall across northern Scotland through Monday evening before becoming more showery overnight, particularly affecting Highland areas and routes towards the Cairngorms and the North Coast 500. Further south across the rest of Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of northern and eastern England, showers will tend to fade, allowing clear skies and a drop in temperatures.

These clearer conditions will encourage a widespread frost, with icy patches developing on untreated roads and pavements in Northern Ireland, Scotland and eastern England. Forecasters have indicated that such wintry hazards could lead to longer journey times and tricky conditions for those driving between popular city breaks such as Edinburgh, Belfast, Newcastle and York.

Tuesday: cold, bright start before cloud builds in the southwest

Tuesday begins cold and frosty for much of the UK, with many areas starting the day dry under sunny spells, a pattern that will appeal to visitors heading out early to explore historic centres like London, Bath and Oxford. However, a few scattered showers remain possible, mainly across northern and eastern parts of the country, where coastal locations and upland routes may see brief wintry bursts.

Later in the day, cloud is expected to thicken across the southwest, affecting destinations such as Cornwall, Devon and the wider South West England holiday belt. Temperatures through the day are set to remain below the seasonal average, reinforcing the chill already in the air despite any bright intervals.​

Midweek outlook: hill snow in the south, frosty nights and rain later

From Wednesday to Friday, the Met Office expects a north–south split, with the north often dry while the south faces periods of rain and hill snow. This means that while cities such as Glasgow and Aberdeen may experience more settled but cold weather midweek, routes through higher ground in southern Britain, including the Brecon Beacons, Dartmoor and Exmoor, could see accumulating snow on the hills.​

Forecasters say that frosty nights are likely to remain a feature, with temperatures repeatedly dropping below freezing and raising the risk of ice on rural lanes and urban streets alike. By Friday, a more organised area of rain is expected to spread in from the west, potentially affecting travel into and out of western gateways such as Bristol, Cardiff and Liverpool, and bringing a change from snow and ice to wetter, still chilly conditions.

Tourist hotspots likely to feel the impact

Several key tourist destinations across the UK are set to be affected as the wintry pattern develops. Among the locations facing impacts from snow, ice, frost or heavy rain are:

• Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Scottish Highlands, including the Cairngorms and routes associated with the North Coast 500, where snow and ice are a particular concern.
• Belfast and wider Northern Ireland, with icy stretches and frosty nights creating challenging conditions for drivers and walkers.
• Eastern England, including York, Newcastle and coastal towns along the North Sea, where frost, ice and brisk winds are expected.
• Southern upland areas such as the Brecon Beacons, Dartmoor and Exmoor, which carry a risk of hill snow as bands of rain move across colder air midweek.​
• South West and Southern England holiday areas, including Cornwall, Devon and coastal parts of Dorset and Hampshire, where cloudier skies, rain and some wintry showers could affect coastal walks and driving conditions.

Visitors planning scenic drives, hiking trips or city tours are being encouraged to keep their itineraries flexible and monitor the latest local forecasts before setting out.

Safety protocols for tourists in snow and ice

Travel specialists, referring to Met Office guidance, have advised that tourists should avoid unnecessary journeys during periods of heaviest snow or when ice warnings are in force wherever possible. Where travel is essential, people are urged to plan their route in advance, allow extra time, check for road closures or public transport delays, and be prepared to adjust plans at short notice.

Visitors heading out on foot are advised to wear sturdy footwear with good grip, watch out for black ice on pavements and car parks, and walk slowly to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Drivers are being reminded to carry warm clothing, blankets, water and a charged mobile phone, and to keep windscreens, lights and number plates clear of ice and snow before setting off. Health guidance also stresses the importance of several warm clothing layers and staying dry to reduce the risk of hypothermia and frostbite in exposed locations.

Bottom Line

The winter weather conditions will create an enduring memory for visitors to the United Kingdom during this current week. The visitors will experience winter weather because the United Kingdom is currently experiencing a combination of sparkling frosty mornings and sudden snow showers and grey rain-laden skies that will create deep winter conditions which extend beyond the normal spring transition. Travel experts recommended that tourists should implement sensible precautions which should include flexible travel arrangements while they monitor official travel updates so they can explore the country’s castles and coastlines and countryside in safety during the upcoming chilly weather period.

The post Frosty nights, Snow And Ice: Urgent UK Travel Alert As Forecasters Warn Of Dangerous Conditions! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Four Seasons Hotel Milano Italy Attracts Tourists With A Dramatic Designer Makeover With New Presidential And Designer Suites

The Lombardy capital now provides visitors with an additional reason to stay inside because Four Seasons Hotel Milano in Italy has finished its renovation of all 118 guest rooms and suites. The hotel unveils its new Presidential Suite and modern Designer Suite as the main attraction of its renovated facilities. The historic city center offers guests a luxurious residential experience which combines fashion and culture with peaceful relaxation at a location. The hotel provides access to both the Duomo and the Quadrilatero della Moda fashion district.

The heritage property, housed in a 15th‑century former convent, has been refreshed under the eye of celebrated designer Pierre‑Yves Rochon, who has been said to have sought to honour Milan’s design DNA while bringing in a quietly modern, boutique aesthetic. For visitors, that means more natural light, tactile materials and artful details, without losing the sense of staying in a classic Milanese palazzo.

Presidential Suite: private residence in the fashion quarter

At 177 square metres, the new Presidential Suite is positioned by the hotel as its flagship urban residence, occupying its own wing overlooking a private courtyard for added privacy and calm. Leisure guests and high‑profile travellers can use the suite as a self‑contained home base, with a generous living area, bedroom, dressing room, bathroom and private kitchen laid out in a residential flow that suits longer stays or family visits.

Design‑wise, the suite blends avant‑garde touches with historic bones, pairing a traditional wooden ceiling and a black marble fireplace with contemporary furniture and curated Italian art. Materials including wool, bouclé, leather and richly worked wood are layered for a sensory experience that encourages guests to slow down between shopping trips and gallery visits.

The bathroom has been reimagined as a destination in its own right, showcasing Breccia Calacatta marble threaded with red and aubergine veins and a geometric floor that gives the room a strong architectural personality. For guests, this translates into a spa‑like setting for getting ready for an evening at La Scala or winding down after a business day in the nearby financial district.

For entertaining, the suite’s fully integrated cocktail bar, with its own counter, wine storage and professional equipment allows private aperitivi, intimate dinners or discreet meetings to unfold without leaving the room. Hotel insiders suggest that the space is already being eyed for fashion‑week gatherings, pre‑show warm‑ups and confidential deal‑making away from the public eye.

Designer Suite: contemporary Milanese pied‑à‑terre

The 91‑square‑metre Designer Suite has been conceived as a luminous urban pied‑à‑terre for design‑savvy guests who want to feel embedded in Milanese daily life. Iconic oval windows draw in natural light across the bedroom, living area and work space, while views of the courtyard keep the atmosphere calm despite the central location near Via Montenapoleone.

Hardwood floors, custom‑loomed carpets and crisp Frette linens create a warm, tailored mood that nods to mid‑century Italian masters, from Gio Ponti to Fornasetti, while textiles by Rubelli and Dedar add colour and texture. This mix of references means design enthusiasts can spot subtle homages to Italian modernism while still enjoying the comforts expected of a contemporary five‑star stay.

A spacious Carrara marble bathroom with deep European soaking tub and separate walk‑in shower is geared towards guests seeking restorative downtime between museum visits or shopping appointments. A discreet guest powder room, accessed through a walk‑in closet, and a living room with fold‑down wall bed make the suite practical for small families, close friends travelling together or an assistant accompanying a business traveller.

Near the bedroom, a compact library inspired by Charlotte Perriand adds an architectural note and provides a quiet corner for reading trip guides, checking emails or planning the next day’s itinerary. The hotel team has indicated that the suite is designed to feel liveable, encouraging guests to unpack and treat the space as a temporary Milanese apartment rather than a traditional hotel room.

Benefits for leisure guests and business travellers

Beyond the two headline suites, all rooms and suites at Four Seasons Hotel Milano have undergone a full refresh, retaining original marble in bathrooms while introducing redesigned sinks and custom woodwork crafted by local artisans. For guests, this ensures a coherent experience, whether they book an entry‑level room, a Renaissance Suite with historical stucco ceiling or one of the signature new spaces.

Key guest‑facing amenities remain in place, including complimentary premium Wi‑Fi, 24‑hour in‑room dining, twice‑daily housekeeping and access to the hotel’s intimate spa, making the property suitable for both short business trips and extended city breaks. Families benefit from flexible occupancy in suites such as the Designer Suite, which can host up to three adults or two adults and a child, and from services like rollaway beds, cots and connecting options in selected categories.

Its location, a short walk from the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the fashion district, positions the hotel as a convenient hub for sightseeing and shopping, while the refreshed interiors give returning guests a new reason to rediscover familiar surroundings. Hotel representatives have remarked that the redesign aims to let visitors experience the city’s fashion, design and culinary scenes in an atmosphere that mirrors Milan’s own blend of history and innovation.

Milan stays with a renewed sense of place

For travellers planning a future escape to Milan, Italy, the renewed Four Seasons Hotel Milano now offers a sharper sense of place, with suites that feel closely tuned to the city’s identity as a capital of fashion and design. Couples dreaming of a romantic weekend, families plotting a culture‑rich holiday and executives returning for repeated stays may find that the new Presidential and Designer Suites turn the hotel itself into one of the trip’s most memorable sights, alongside the Duomo and Brera’s galleries.

The creators of the project transformation state their intent to maintain the convent’s original architectural elements while providing modern amenities for visitors because they believe this approach will appeal to guests who value historical accuracy and contemporary comfort. The updated property in Milan currently supports international fashion trends while attracting modern visitors who seek hotels that complement the city’s sophisticated and assured atmosphere.

Image Credit: Four Seasons Hotel Milano

The post Four Seasons Hotel Milano Italy Attracts Tourists With A Dramatic Designer Makeover With New Presidential And Designer Suites appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Air India Summer 2026: Tourists Prepare For A Treat As Airline Unveils Next‑Gen Cabins And Extra Flights

Air India’s Northern Summer 2026 schedule introduces a completely new experience to visitors who want to explore London and Melbourne and Toronto and Tokyo next year. The airline plans to deliver an upgraded experience through its new aircraft operations which will include refurbished widebody planes and upcoming generation jet aircraft on its most traveled international routes.

Big step in global network strategy

Air India has announced a significant product and network enhancement for Summer 2026, centred on upgraded cabins and added capacity on long‑haul routes. Key destinations benefiting from the move include Tokyo (Haneda), Toronto, Seoul, Shanghai, London and Melbourne, all of which will see aircraft with new or retrofitted interiors, plus more seats on select routes.

From Delhi, flights to Tokyo Haneda will use Boeing 787‑9 aircraft in a three‑class layout, adding Premium Economy and increasing monthly seat capacity on the route. Delhi–Toronto will rise from 7 to 10 weekly services, while flights to Seoul Incheon and Shanghai will also see frequency bumps, strengthening connectivity between India and key East Asian and North American hubs.

New cabins and more premium choice

At the heart of the plan is a rapid rollout of new or thoroughly refurbished cabins across Air India’s widebody fleet. The airline is deploying new Boeing 787‑9s and retrofitted 787‑8s with updated interiors on more international routes, while continuing a retrofit programme for 26 legacy 787‑8s, each receiving redesigned cabins and the carrier’s new livery.

Premium Economy will appear on more city pairs, including Delhi–Tokyo and Bengaluru–London Heathrow, giving travellers an option between traditional Economy and Business on long sectors. First Class, which has been gradually re‑introduced as part of the broader transformation, will feature on select Boeing 777‑300ER routes such as Delhi–Melbourne and flights to Birmingham and London Gatwick, offering eight suites alongside business‑class flatbeds and a large economy cabin.

Industry observers noted that airline executives described these upgrades as part of a deliberate push to create a more consistent new Air India experience, rather than a patchwork of old and new cabins.

Strengthening aviation networks

These aircraft and product changes are designed not only to improve comfort on board, but also to deepen Air India’s role in international aviation networks linking India with Europe, North America and Asia–Pacific. Additional frequencies to Toronto, Seoul and Shanghai, together with upgraded capacity to London and Melbourne, increase the number of connection options via Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru for passengers travelling onward across India or beyond.

On the Delhi–Melbourne route alone, the introduction of upgraded 777‑300ERs with First Class will add nearly 4,000 extra seats per month, creating more room for both leisure and corporate demand between India and Australia. On the India–UK corridor, the use of new 787‑9s and refreshed 787‑8s on Mumbai–London and Bengaluru–London, together with improvements on Delhi–London, further consolidates Air India’s position as a key non‑stop player between the two countries.

Commentary around the airline’s transformation programme has indicated that 2026 is being viewed internally as the year when passengers will most clearly notice the change, as more upgraded widebodies join the long‑haul network.

What it means for travellers

For passengers, the immediate impact of the Summer 2026 plan will be felt in the cabin rather than on a route map. Many flights that once alternated between older and newer interiors will, under the revised schedule, be consistently operated by aircraft with upgraded seating, refreshed décor and updated inflight entertainment.

Premium Economy should be particularly attractive to long‑haul travellers from India who want extra space and comfort without the cost of Business Class, especially on overnight flights to London, Tokyo and Toronto. Families heading for summer holidays, students travelling abroad and members of the Indian diaspora visiting home are likely to benefit from the additional frequencies and seat capacity, which can help ease pressure on fares and improve availability at peak times.

Observers also pointed out that the integration of more A350 and 787‑9 aircraft, with their modern cabin pressurisation and quieter interiors, was expected to make long‑haul journeys feel less tiring, something frequent flyers have been keen to see on India–Europe and India–Australia routes.

A traveller‑focused chapter in Air India’s reinvention

London, Melbourne, Toronto and Tokyo may just be waypoints on a global map, but for the travellers who will pass through their airports next summer, Air India’s 2026 upgrades could shape how they feel about flying from India for years to come. For many, the prospect of boarding a quieter aircraft, settling into a more thoughtfully designed seat and enjoying smoother connections will make the idea of long‑haul travel a little less stressful and a lot more enticing.

The airline operates its new cabin configurations and additional flight schedules through its entire network system which results in enhanced international travel connections and provides passengers with improved options to travel between continents. The combination of enhanced aviation connections and superior onboard service which Air India will introduce in 2026 will provide international travelers from India with their next flight selection decision support.

Image Credit: Air India

The post Air India Summer 2026: Tourists Prepare For A Treat As Airline Unveils Next‑Gen Cabins And Extra Flights appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Rixos Murjana Debuts As Saudi Arabia’s Largest Ultra All‑Inclusive Red Sea Resort, Boosting Tourism Vision

The Rixos Murjana resort in King Abdullah Economic City which exists on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast operates as the largest all‑inclusive resort in the country while serving as a new tourist attraction for families. The beach area welcomes travelers with its extensive white sand beach and sparkling swimming pools and vista of overwater villas which extend into the Red Sea. The coastal escape style which the beach area offers has become a popular destination for both local residents and international tourists who previously traveled abroad to find similar experiences.

A flagship for Saudi’s Red Sea tourism drive

Rixos Murjana has opened in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), north of Jeddah, as Saudi Arabia’s largest ultra all‑inclusive resort, reinforcing the country’s ambition to become a leading global beach destination under Vision 2030. The resort is described as the first fully integrated, all‑inclusive property in the kingdom, combining accommodation, dining, entertainment and waterpark access in a single stay, which aims to keep visitor spending within Saudi Arabia and extend average trip length.

The project has been enabled by the Tourism Development Fund (TDF), which financed and invested in the resort in partnership with Emaar Economic City as investor and FTG Company as developer, reflecting a model of public–private collaboration to accelerate tourism infrastructure. Officials highlighted that the development is expected to generate around 250 jobs for Saudis, supporting local employment and skills in hospitality and resort operations.

Tourism minister Ahmed Al‑Khateeb was cited as saying that the opening marks an important milestone in the roll‑out of high‑quality destinations, demonstrating that major projects are ready to move into full operations and welcome visitors from within the kingdom and abroad while expanding family travel choices and contributing to Vision 2030 goals.​

Scale, design and accommodation

Spread across a large coastal site in KAEC, Rixos Murjana offers 488 rooms and suites alongside 33 villas, many with direct or panoramic views of the Red Sea. Accommodation ranges from premium sea‑view rooms and suites to expansive Royal Suites of around 686 square metres, with private jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and dedicated living and dining spaces designed for extended family stays and high‑end travellers.

Club Privé by Rixos introduces an ultra‑exclusive enclave featuring private villas, maid’s rooms and tranquil pools, with guests receiving butler service and access to a dedicated Club House and Beach Club. The resort also offers Maldivian‑style overwater villas, giving the Red Sea shoreline a distinctive profile and offering an alternative for guests who might otherwise opt for long‑haul Indian Ocean retreats.

Architecturally, the interiors draw inspiration from Hijazi coastal design, integrating regional motifs with contemporary, sustainable finishes to create a sense of place while meeting international luxury standards. This aesthetic is echoed throughout public spaces, reinforcing Saudi cultural identity for both domestic and overseas guests.

Middle East’s longest pool and an integrated waterpark

Among the headline features is what is reported to be the Middle East’s longest swimming pool at 111 metres, which runs alongside landscaped gardens and provides a focal point for daytime relaxation. The resort also fronts a private white‑sand beach with access to clear Red Sea waters and nearby coral reefs, catering to sun‑seekers and water‑sports enthusiasts.

Murjana Waterpark, described as Saudi Arabia’s first fully integrated hotel waterpark, spans tens of thousands of square metres and features 11 slides and rides, wave and snorkel pools, splash zones for younger children and multiple food and beverage outlets. The park’s design is said to be inspired by Hijazi architecture and local stories, blending cultural elements with high‑energy attractions for families and thrill‑seekers.

For families, the resort also houses what is promoted as the largest kids’ club in Saudi Arabia, Rixy Kids Club, alongside a dedicated Teens Club, both offering supervised activities, workshops and entertainment tailored to different age groups. Adults can access extensive fitness facilities and an Exclusive Sports Club with expert‑led classes including CrossFit, yoga and TRX, positioning the property as a wellness‑oriented escape as well as an entertainment hub.

Dining, spa and all‑inclusive lifestyle

Rixos Murjana follows the brand’s all‑inclusive, all‑exclusive concept, with guests benefiting from unlimited access to multiple restaurants, cafés and beach bars as part of their stay. Signature venues include Terra Mare for international buffets, Alâ Aksam steakhouse, Piazzetta Italiana, MykOrini for Greek tastes, People’s Restaurant and Godiva Café, collectively designed to keep guests on‑site and engaged across different cuisines.

The award‑winning Anjana Spa features 12 treatment rooms, steam and sauna facilities and couple suites, supporting longer wellness‑focused itineraries for couples and multi‑generational groups. Combined with the destination’s beach clubs, cabanas and adults‑only pool zones, the offering is tailored to both high‑spend leisure travellers and regional weekend visitors looking for short, intensive breaks.

Strengthening Saudi Arabia’s hospitality ecosystem

Industry leaders have framed Rixos Murjana as a qualitative leap in KAEC’s evolution from industrial city to lifestyle and tourism destination, helping to attract foreign direct investment and international brands to the Red Sea corridor. Tourism Development Fund chief Qusai Al‑Fakhri was quoted as saying that the project embodies the fund’s strategy to empower the private sector and deepen partnerships that elevate hospitality standards and enrich guest experiences, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for all‑inclusive stays.

For the wider hospitality sector, the resort is expected to stimulate demand for supporting services such as transport, excursions and events, while its gateway to holy cities positioning leverages KAEC’s accessibility to Mecca and Medina for visitors combining pilgrimage with coastal holidays. By setting a benchmark for large‑scale all‑inclusive operations and integrated waterparks, Rixos Murjana is also likely to spur competitive upgrades at existing properties and influence the design of future Red Sea developments.

Rixos Hotels chairman Fettah Tamince was reported as observing that the opening is a defining milestone for the brand in Saudi Arabia, expressing confidence in the country’s tourism vision and describing the property as bringing together scale, innovation and elevated guest experiences that set a new standard for ultra all‑inclusive hospitality in KAEC.

A new Red Sea ritual for Saudi and global travellers

A new ceremonial practice which involves the Red Sea will be available for both Saudi citizens and international visitors to experience. The Rixos Murjana resort in King Abdullah Economic City will enable Jeddah and Riyadh families and families from other locations to create Red Sea vacation traditions which require no international travel but provide resort amenities including water slides and spa services and oceanfront dining which people used to think were exclusive to Antalya and Maldives. The all-inclusive resort will demonstrate how Saudi Arabia can combine its heritage with continuous entertainment and high-end service to develop a unique coastal vacation experience.

Image Credit: Rixos Murjana

The post Rixos Murjana Debuts As Saudi Arabia’s Largest Ultra All‑Inclusive Red Sea Resort, Boosting Tourism Vision appeared first on Travel And Tour World.