Minor Hotels | Signed a Management Agreement for Two New Resorts in Croatia and Slovenia

Minor Hotels, an international operator, investor and owner in the hospitality industry founded in 1978 and based in Bangkok, Thailand, has signed a management agreement with MK Group, a Serbian holding company with a hospitality division based in New Belgrade, for two new resorts on the Adriatic coast, marking the company’s entry into Croatia and Slovenia, expanding its presence in  Europe.

Both properties started to be operated by Minor Hotels on February 12, 2026, with both establishments scheduled to reopen for the 2026 season in late March following extensive refurbished programs and they will be relaunched under the Anantara and Minor Reserve Collection brands in the first quarter of 2027.

The two properties are :

Adriatic Istria Resort: Located in Savudrija, a coastal settlement in nortwestern Istria, Croatia, developed from a fishing village into a pleasant holiday centre on the Istrian peninsula, the property is situated less than a 30 – minute drive from Portorož.

The property features 186 rooms, three restaurants, four bars, a dedicated MICE area, a full – service spa and wellness centre, indoor and outdoor pools and direct beach access. The resort also includes the Golf Adriatic PGA National Croatia course, an 18 – hole, par 72 golf course running alongside the Adriatic coastline. Following refurbishment, the establishment will relaunch as Anantara Adriatic Istria Resort in early 2027.

Hotel Palace Portorož: Located in the Slovenian resort town of Portorož overlooking the Adriatic Sea, this high – end hotel began to be built in 1908 upon the plans of the Austrian architect Johann Eustacchio and opened on 20 August 1910 at the time of Austro – Hungarian Empire.

The 183 - key property designed for guests seeking privacy and highly personalized experiences, occupies an ornate palatial building once frequented by royalty is located 4 kilometres from Sečovlje Salina Nature Park.

The hotel features three restaurants, three bars, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a dedicated meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) area. After refurbishment the property will relaunch as Hotel Palace Portorož, Minor Reserve Collection Slovenia in the first quarter of 2027, part of Minor Reserve Collection, a new soft luxury brand.

Both properties are accessible via Trieste Airport in Italy, Portorož Airport in Slovenia, and Pula and Rijeka Airports in Croatia and they are owned by MK Group,  a Serbian - based firm which operates in Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia with businesses in tourism, real estate, renewable energy, agriculture, and the food industry.

Links

https://media.minorhotels.com/en-GLO/261119-minor-hotels-announces-expansion-in-the-adriatic-with-debuts-in-croatia-and-slovenia/

Marriott International | Officially Opened a Tribute Portfolio All - Inclusive Resort in St James, Barbados

Marriott International, American multinational hospitality company based in Bethesda, Maryland has officially opened a Tribute All – Inclusive resort in St James, Barbados, marking the first all -inclusive property of the brand in the Caribbean country.

Crystal Cove, A Tribute Portfolio All Inclusive Resort is located in Saint James, a parish on the west coast of the island of Barbados, known for the upscale resorts dotted along its Caribbean Sea coastline, white sand - beaches include calm Paynes Bay and exclusive Sandy Lane.

The property is situated along an idyllic stretch of coast within 8 acres of tropical garden, 25.5 kilometres from Grantley Adams International Airport and provides 88 comfortable rooms featuring private balconies/patios, mini – fridges, and ocean or garden views.

Dining options at the resort include two restaurants and a coffee shop. High Tie Bar serves Bajan and Caribbean cuisine, Artisan Restaurant offers a chef - curated experience with market - style and à la carte options, Vista Terrace Coffee & Wine Bar provides coffee and tea with ocean views, and the swim - up Cave Bar, located behind waterfall. 

 Amenities at the property include three lagoon - style pools, a fitness centre with Life Fitness equipment, kids club operated in partnership with CAMP and providing hands - on experiences, and a meeting space for up to 70 people for social or corporate events. 

Crystal Cove, A Tribute Portfolio All Inclusive Resort also offers motorized and non - motirized water sports, including boating, kayaking, sailing, snorkelling, boogie boards, tube rides, and water skiing.

The all - inclusive program at the resort includes access to the Dine Around Program, which allows guests to dine at participating sister properties within the Barbados Collection.

The property joins the Tribute Portfolio All - Inclusive Resort brand, a brand focuses on a “Community of Character” featuring unique, locally - influenced aesthetic rather than cookie - cutter hotel styles, blending indie - spirited design with comprehensive, hassle - free vacations.

Links

https://www.marriott.com/en-gb/hotels/bgity-crystal-cove-barbados-a-tribute-portfolio-all-inclusive-resort/overview/

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139967.html

Shanghai, China | Fudan University Launches a New English - Language Undergraduate Program on Global Governance

Fudan University, a public university located in Yangpu one of the 16 districts of Shanghai, in the northeastern part of the Chinese metropolis, affiliated with the Ministry of Education and co - founded with the Shanghai Municipal Government is expanding its international education offerings with the launch of a new English language undergraduate program titled “International Organizations and Global Governance” (IOGG),  which will begin in September 2026.

 This initiative is part of the university’s efforts to strengthen academic cooperation and attract students interested in global affairs and international politics.

 The program will be taught by the School of International Relations and Public Policy (SIRPA) and will follow a four - year curriculum entirely in English, focuses on the structures, regulations, and practises that underpin international cooperation, analysis of global policy, and practical problem - solving skills.

 The second application window for international students will be ope from February 23 to March 6, 2026 and the bachelor’s degree is aimed at those seeking careers in international organizations, government bodies, NGOs, or globally oriented industries, and also provides an academic foundation for those to pursue graduate studies in related fields.

 Fudan University has previously implemented educational initiatives focused on multilateral cooperation, which have shown growing international demand. The new bachelor’s degree continues this trajectory, reinforcing the university’s role as a global academic hub and platform for cross - border educational exchange.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/universidad-de-fudan-lanza-un-nuevo-programa-de-pregrado-en-ingl-s-sobre-gobernanza-global/

Maputo, Mozambique | Expecting 15 Cruise Ship Calls in 2026, Bringing Ashore 16.000 Tourists

Mozambique expects a significant revival of its tourism industry, with the Port of its Capital, Maputo expecting 15 cruise ship calls, bringing ashore 16.000 tourists in 2026, boosting the local economy and promote culture, supported by a move by the the governmeny which has also launched e-visa portal for selected nationalities.

Each ship call is being coordinated with partners including the National Tourism Institute and Maputo’s FEIMA market to stage on - site fairs showcasing local handicrafts, gastronomy and culture - supporting small businesses, tour operators and wider city livelihoods.

The African country received at least nine cruise ships in 2024 with 4.492 tourists, of whom 2.069 disembarked to visit attractions and sample local cuisine.

Despite post - election unrest later that year, the Government’s 2025 programme, which focuses on accelerating economic diversification, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable development through infrastructure expansion and social services, targets international tourism rceipts of US$391.9 million (€361.3 million) and a 6% GDP contribution by 2029, up from US$221.2 million (€203.9 million) and 4.02% in 2024, underpinned by visa exemption for  for 29 countries and plans to grow tourism employment from 14.603 to 22.115.

Key Features of the 2026 Maputo Cruise Season:

·       Economic Impact: The expected 15 cruise ship calls target enhancing local commerce, benefiting small businesses, tour operators, and the community.

·       Cultural Promotion: Partnerships with the National Institute and local fairs aim to showcase Mozambican culture and talent during each ship’s stay.

·        Direct Interaction: Specific, organized events are held during each docking allowing tourists to engage directly with local creators.

·       15 Scheduled Stopovers: A significant increase in traffic designed to solidify Maputo as a premier tourist destination.

Link

https://atta.travel/resource/maputo-to-host-15-cruise-calls-in-2026-16-000-visitors-projected.html

Gujarat, India | Developing 131 Gardens to Improve Quality of Life and Biodiversity Conservation

 In the municipalities of Gujarat, a state along the western coast of India, with a coastline of about 2.340 kilometres, the longest in the country, most of which lies on the Kathiawar peninsula, 131 gardens are being developed to improve quality of life and conserve biodiversity. 

With a budget of 1.175 million rupees (approximately $12.93 million), so far, work has been already completed on 70 gardens, and the creation of the rest is continuing as reported by Asian News International (ANI), a premier multimedia news agency based in New Delhi. 

The goal of the AMRUT 2.0 (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) program, a centrally sponsored scheme launched on October 1, 2021 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to improve the quality of life in over 500 cities by restoring water resources, reducing non - income - generation water (water extracted, treated, and distributed without generating profit for the provider),  reusing treated wastewater, and creating green areas and parks. 

The creation of green areas not only raises the quality of life of citizens and improve air quality, but also helps to restore ecological balance in densely populated areas, and the use of local species of plants and trees contributes to maintaining biodiversity. 

The Bhavani Garden, located in the Lathi Municipality within the Amreli district area, which covers 10.936.35 square metres has been redeveloped under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme to serve as a public green space at a cost of Rs 1.26 crore (about $138.600) . Existing trees were preserved and local species were planted along walkways, boundaries and throughout.

Another example is the Kailash Vatika garden in Palampur, a newly redeveloped 10.000 - square - metre urban garden, which has become a recreational space for citizens featuring modern inclusive amenities including scenic gazebos, a children’s play zone, specialized facilities for persons with disabilities, and seating areas designed to be a welcoming, green community space.  

The AMRUT 2.0 programme also plans to ensure water supply in Indian cities and achieve self - sufficiency by implementing a circular economy in the water sector.  

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/en-el-estado-occidental-de-india-se-est-n-acondicionando-jardines-para-mejorar-la-calidad-de-vida-y-/

Cape Town, South Africa | Africa’ s Green Economy Summit - From 24 to 27 February 2026

Cape Town, vibrant port city of South Africa’s southwest coast, located on a striking peninsula overlooking the Atlantic and Indian oceans, highlighted by a unique natural setting in the Floristic Region and boasting stunning landmarks include Cape Point and Table Mountain will host from 24 to 27 February Africa’s Green Economy Summit (AGES), bringing together global investors and policymakers to accelerate sustainable, inclusive projects across the continent. 

The event aims to connect global capital with African opprtunities, includes pitching sessions for vetted investment - ready projects, high - level policy dialogue and networking in sectors including renewable energy, blue economy, green transport, water, waste, sustainable agriculture, green building and climate tech. 

Samlam Investments, one of South Africa’s largest sustainability - driven asset management companies, developing high - quality investment solutions, will return as headline sponsor of Africa’s Green Economy Simmit (AGES) for the third consecutive year.  

In its fourth year, Africa’ s Green Economy Summit has showcased more than 90 initiatives to date worth over $8.7 billion. 

The 2026 edition will feature more than 40 projects across two pitch stages, with an investor - driven format including roundtables, deal rooms and curated matchmaking with DFIs, venture capital funds, banks and asset managers. 

Nature and biodiversity will be in focus, highlighting emerging markets for biodiversity credits and nature - based finance, while Sanlam’s CEO Carl Roothman underscored the firm’s pursuit of competitive, risk adjustment returns alongside measurable social and environmental outcomes. 

Key Features of Africa’s Green Economy Summit (2026): 

•    Investment Pitch and Showcase: Features a curated pipeline of various vetted projects, including startups and infrastructure, spanning renewable energy, battery storage, and waste - to - value solutions. 
•    Sector Deep - Dives: Focuses on height high – growth sectors: Renewable Energy, Blue Economy, Green Mobility, Sustainable Agriculture, Circular Economy, Biodiversity & Nature Finance, Green Buildings, and Climate Tech. 
•    High - Level Networking and Dialogue: Connects global investors, development finance institutions (DFIs), and government officials with African entrepreneurs to foster collaborations. 
•    Expert Insights and Keynotes: Features over 100 speakers and leaders focusing on accelerating Africa’s transition to a green economy. 
•    Strategic Focus: Highlights carbon market frameworks, green industrialization, and urban development. 

Link
https://atta.travel/resource/africa-s-green-economy-summit-2026.html

Zagreb, Croatia | Sajam GAST - International Fair for Gastronomy, Hospitality and Tourism - From 26 to 28 February 2026

Zagreb, Croatia’s capital and largest city will host from 26 to 28 February 2026 SAJAM Gast, one of the most important trade fairs for gastronomy, hospitality and tourism in Croatia, and a key annual event for the HoReCa industry.

The fair takes place at the Arena Zagreb, located at Ulica Vice Vukova 8, which stands out  as a notable venue with its modern infrastructure and excellent accessibility for both domestic and international visitors. With convenient transport connections, numerous hotels nearby and its location in one of Southeast Europe’s most vibrant cities.

Organized by Sajam d.o.o., Sajam GAST is a perfect opportunity to explore the latest products, trends and technologies ahead of the upcoming tourism season and an ideal place to network with industry professionals from across Europe, discover innovations, and experience the region’s tourism potential firsthand.

What sets the trade fair apart is its clearly structured layout, divided into specialized thematic area tailored to the specific needs of the HoReCa sector.

As a central industry platform, Sajam GAST brings together decision - makers, manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers from the hospitality, gastronomy and tourism sectors, along with café and restaurant owners, chefs, sommeliers and interior design professionals.

International exhibitors showcase their latest innovations in hospitality equipment, furniture design, confectionary, catering services, food and beverage, bakery and also ice cream.

The fair offers a unique blend of expertise, inspiration and practical relevance where visitors can discover from fine wines in the Dionizijana section to the state – of – the art coffee machines at the Međunarodni sajam cave, and creative interior solutions for hotels.

Particularly noteworthy are the integrated competitions and tastings, which give the exhibition a lively and engaging atmosphere, making Sajam GAST not only a showcase for products, but also a stage for recognizing talent, setting trends and forging new business partnerships.

The fair holds both national significance and international appeal, making it a must - visit for all professional in the hospitality industry to stay updated, discover the latest trends and increase their business operations. 

Links

https://gastfair.com/

https://www.tradefairdates.com/Sajam-GAST-M9774/Zagreb.html