IHG Hotels & Resorts | Developing a 115 - Room Holiday Inn Hotel in Dhangadhi, Nepal

 IHG Hotels & Resorts, British multinational hospitality company based in Windsor, Berkshire, England, UK has signed a management agreement to develop a 115 - room Holiday Inn hotel in Dhangadhi, a sub - metropolitan city and the district of Kailali District in Sudurpashchim province in the western Nepal, sharing a border with India in the south.

Dhangadhi poised to become a key player in cross - border tourism and commerce offer, a growing centre with increasing infrastructure (hotels, transport) , proximity to the Indian border, its importance for regional trade and tourism and offering a variety of attractions for visitors such as Shuklaphanta National Park renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the swamp deer and various bird species,   Ghodaghodi Lake, a Ramsar wetland, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The future opening of Holiday Inn Dhangadhi is the result of a management agreement with Club Chaulami Ltd., a company focuses on hotel industry and tourism activities based in Kathmandu. This development marks IHG’s entry into the Sudurpashchim Province and aligns with its strategy to introduce its brands to high - potential, underserved and emerging markets across South Asia.

The hotel will be located in the heart of the city within a mixed - used development near the India - Nepal border, approximately 8.5 kilometres from Dhangadhi Airport, well placed to serve business travellers, government officials, and transit guests, while also catering to leisure travellers visiting key regional attractions such as Shuklaphanta National Park, Ghodaghodi Lake, and Shipvuri Temple.

The establishment’s strategic location enables it to capture demand from both domestic - and cross - border visitors, reinforcing its relevance across business and leisure segments.

The hotel is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2028 and will feature 115 comfortable rooms, four food and beverage outlets, including an all - day dining restaurant, a pool bar, a specialty restaurant, a fitness centre, a swimming pool, meeting event spaces, including a ballroom.

The property will join the Holiday Inn brand, a globally recognized, mid - priced hotel brand, known for providing comfortable, convenient , and family - friendly stays for leisure and business travellers, with variations like Holiday Inn Express focusing on essential and limited services, and Holiday Inn Resorts offering more vacation amenities.

Links

https://www.ihgplc.com/en/news-and-media/news-releases/2025/ihg-hotels-and-resorts-signs-first-holiday-inn-hotel-in-nepals-sudurpashchim-province

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139375.html

Curator Hotel & Resort Collection | Expanded its Presence in California, U.S. with the Addition to its Portfolio of Two Properties, Located in Palm Springs and Rancho Santa Fe

Curator Hotel & Resort Collection, a company boasting a portfolio of stylish of boutique hotels and resorts based in Bethesda, Maryland offering one - of - a kind experiences throughout the U.S. founded by Pebblebrook Hotel Trust and six industry – leading hotel operators has expanded its presence in California with the addition to its portfolio of two properties located in Palm Springs and Rancho Santa Fe. 

 This expansion increases the number of independent hotels under Curator’s management in the state and is part of the company strategy to grow its network of properties, providing them with access to strategic vendor partnerships and collaborative marketing opportunities and the two hotels are: 

Royal Sun Palm Springs, Palm Springs:  The hotel is located in Palm Springs, a famed resort city in Southern California’s Coachella Valley, famous for its year - round sunshine, stunning desert landscapes, and iconic mid - century modern architecture, serving as glamorous retreat for Hollywood stars and attracting visitors for outdoor adventures, relaxation, culture and events like Coachella.

The property is situated at 1700 S Pam Canyon Drive, set in a peaceful residential neighbourhood across the street from the Moorten Botanical Garden and near popular attractions like the Palm Springs Air Museum, Tahquitz Canyon and San Jacinto Mountains. 

This Desert Retreat offers a blend of mid - century style and modern comfort, featuring 66 rooms, the High Moon Restaurant, serving Californian cuisine, a heated pool with poolside bar, free Wi - Fi, complimentary parking, yoga mats, and pet – friendly options. 

Guesthouse Hotel at La Valle, Rancho Santa Fe: The property is located at 5890 Cancha de Golf in Rancho Santa Fe, a census - designated place in San Diego County within the San Diego metropolitan area, one of the most affluent neighbourhoods in the nation, a place of horse ranches, luxury inns and elegant mansions spread out across rolling hills a few kilometres east of the Pacific and about 32 km from downtown San Diego.  

The property features 77 suite - style rooms with balconies/patios and golf/landscape views, an on - site dining option named Littler Lounge, a resort - style outdoor pool with a slash pad, a full - service spa with a salon, sauna, steam room, a fitness centre offering yoga, a 27 - hole golf course, various tennis and pickleball courts and free - self parking.

The inclusion of these properties supports Curator's aim to enhance its footprint in California, now representing over 50 independent hotels in the golden state.

Links 
https://www.curatorhotelsandresorts.com/news/curator-hotel-resort-collection-adds-two-new-members-in-the-golden-state/
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139314.html

Hyatt Hotels Corporation | Officially Opened a New JdV by Hyatt Property in Suzhou, China

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, American multinational hospitality company based in Chicago, Illinois, has officially opened a new JdV Hyatt property in Suzhou, a city renowned for its notable cultural and historical heritage situated in China’s Jiangtsu province near Shanghai.

Suzhou, a centre founded in 514 B.C. nicknamed the “Venice of the East” for the presence of various scenic canals and stoned bridges, is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the ancient Grand Canal and the famous Classical Gardens of Suzhou,  also highlighted by the presence of stunning ornated pagodas and historical buildings, which all together have contributed to elevate the city’s status as one of the leading tourist destination in China.

The opening of the KYLN Hotel Suzhou marks the latest addition to its JdV Hyatt brand and is part of its expansion in Asia. 

The hotel is located at 1090 Cailian Road in  the Xiangcheng District, one of the five urban districts of Suzhou, a blend of rapid modern development (new highways, metro) and traditional charm, with attractions like rapeseed festivals, serene villages such as Gemu Village, historic sites including Sangpiling Temple, Nanton Ancient City, and natural beauty such as Xija Pond and Yangcheng Lake,  catering to both urban exploration and nature retreats with amenities for families and hikers.

The property is part of the Chun Shen Li Commercial Center, and is designed to serve business, leisure, and extended - stay guests.

This modern hotel blending the timeless cultural heritage of Imperial Kiln Bricks with contemporary style boasts a design led by HBA, using materials such as clay and wood, and features floor - to - ceiling windows offering views of the city.

KYLN Hotel Suzhou features 327 comfortable rooms, suites and apartments. The accommodations include pet - friendly options and are designed to reflect Suzhou’s cultural heritage, incorporating traditional and modern influences.

The hotel offers three dining venues include CHROMA. a Chinese Restaurant focuses on Boat Cuisine, using seasonal ingredients, J Noodle Bar providing noodle dishes and din sum, and Cai Lian 1090 which serves a variety of Chinese and international dishes.

The property for wellness and fitness offers the Yuan Fitness Centre and the Cheng Fitness Centre, equipped with cardio and strength - training equipment, a Pilates studio, and private training spaces.

The hotel also includes 7.534 square feet of conference space, a ballroom, and five multipurpose rooms for events and meetings.

KYLN Hotel Suzhou joins JdV by Hyatt brand, a collection of independent boutique hotels well known for their unique character, reflecting the spirit and identity of neighbourhoods they are located in. The brand emphasises celebrating the “joie de vivre” and encourage guests to experience each hotel with the essence of its local surroundings.

World of Hyatt members can earn 500 Bonus Points for qualifying nights at the hotel until March 31, 2026.

Links

https://www.hyatt.com/jdv-by-hyatt/en-US/suzjd-kyln-hotel-suzhou

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139382.html

Uttarakhand, India | Establishing Seven Aromatic Valleys to Boost Rural Economies

 India, primarily through Uttarakhand’s “Aroma Revolution Policy” is establishing seven aromatic valleys in the state of Uttarakhand, a land crossed by the Himalayas, known for its stunning landscapes, pilgrimage sites and a rich cultural and historical heritage, to boost rural economies by cultivating high - value aromatic crops like lemongrass, mint, and rose, creating jobs, reducing human - wildlife conflict,  and setting up processing units for essential oils with the goal to cover 23.000 hectares by 2036. 

Key features of this initiative include farmer training and skills development, support for plant nurseries, subsides for cultivation, dedicated processing/distillation units near valley, packaging and branding. and integrating aromatic farming with sustainable development to offer higher returns than traditional crops.The creation of the necessary infrastructure is also planned. 

This move is expected to bring together around 100.000 farmers and increase the value of the aromatic crop business over the next 10 years from about US$11 million to US$133 million, contributing to the development of the rural economy. 

At the first stage, it was decided that a timur pepper valley would be located in Pithoragarh district, Damask rose valleys in Chamoli and Almora, a mint valley in Udham Singh Nagar, cinnamon valleys in Champawat and Nainital, and lemongrass and mint valleys in Haridwar and Pauri Garhwal. 

An aroma park covering more than 40 acres is being built in the city of Kashipur, expected to support the development of the aromatic and perfumery industry. 

Another operation will take place on Dhauladevi, Munsiyari and Bethalgat converting the existing tea plantations in these areas to organic farming, contributing to agricultural sustainability. 

Key Features of the Aromatic Valleys Project: 

•    Policy Framework: Uttarakhand’s “Mehak Kranti” (Aroma Revolution) Policy (2026 – 2036) aims to transform the state’s economy through aromatic cultivation. 
•    Crop Focus: Cultivation of plants such as Damask rose, lemongrass, Japanese mint, citronella,  cinnamon, and lavender. 
•    Farmer Empowerment: Providing nurseries, planting guidance, and training to farmers, benefiting thousands. 
•    Economic Growth: Targeting significant increases in turnover from aromatic crops (from  ₹100 crore to  ₹1.179 crore) and generating millions of man – days of employment.
•    Conflict Mitigation: Using strong fragrances to deter wildlife like monkeys, bears and elephants from raiding traditional crop fields. 
•    Infrastructure: Establishing industrial units and distillation plants (like the Aroma Park in Kashipur) within 5 km of the valleys to process essential oils.
•    Tourism Potential: Aromatic valleys are also expected to attract tourists, adding another layer to rural development.
•    Land Use: Aims to cover about 23.000 hectares, with minimum cultivation plots for participating individuals or groups.

Locations and Specifics: 

•    Valleys: Planned in Haridwar, Nainital, Alomra, Pauri, Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Udham Singh Nagar, focusing on specific aromatic plants from each area (cinnamon in Nainital/ Champawat, “surai” in Uttarkashi). 
•    Support: The project is supported by the Centre of Aromatic Plants (CAP) and aligns with broader national goals for aromatic and medicinal plant development. 

Authorites believe these measures will not only increase farmers’ incomes but also create new jobs in cultivation, processing, packaging and marketing. With the development of aromatic valleys and related infrastructure, Uttarakhand aims to position itself as a leader in the production of aromatic crops and natural products. 

Link 
https://tvbrics.com/en/news/india-to-establish-aromatic-valleys/

La Romana, The Dominican Republic | Successfully Earned the Prestigious Blue Flag Certification for its Beaches

La Romana, a city on the Dominican Republic’s Caribbean coast, capital of the southeastern province of La Romana, located opposite Catalina Island, known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs absolutely perfect for snorkeling, luxury hotels and resorts, water sports, leading golf courses and a world - class marina, has successfully earned the prestigious Blue Flag certification for its beaches for the 2025 - 2026 season.

 The renewed Blue Flag designation undoubtedly strengthens La Romana’s position as a leading sustainable tourism destination in the Caribbean, reaffirming a development model focused on environmental stewardship, community, well-– being, and long - term resilience.

The certification linked to the internationally recognized program coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and managed in the Caribbean country by the Institute of Environmental Law of the Dominican Republic (IDARD), was celebrated with an event which took place at Viva Dominicus Beach & Palace by Wyndham, highlighting a successful collaboration and continuous joint efforts between the government,  private sector and local community.

This title is a testament to La Romana excellent water quality, environmental management and protection, safety, inclusive access and recognizing the municipality's commitment to high standards in beach management, environmental education, with Bayahibe Beach specifically highlighted for universal accessibility, showing ongoing dedication to sustainable tourim. 

The certification covers several key beach segments, including the mentioned Bayahibe Beach, La Laguna Beach, with areas operated by Viva Dominicus Beach & Palace by Wyndham, Iberostar Selection Hacienda Dominicus, Catalonia Bayahibe & Royal La Romana, Dreams Dominicus La Romana, and Sunscape Dominicus La Romana, as well as Minitas Beach, managed by Casa de Campo Resort & Villas.

Tourism and environmental leaders stressed that this achievement reflects long - term collaboration to protect marine biodiversity, promote responsible coastal use, and generate tangible environmental and social benefits for residents and workers in La Romana. 

Link 
https://dominicantoday.com/dr/tourism/2025/12/18/la-romana-earns-blue-flag-certification-for-2025-2026/

Durban, South Africa | Launched a Municipal Climate Change Forum to Drive Coordinated Actions on the City Climate Strategy

The eThekwini Municipality (Durban), in a new step to bolster South Africa’s climate resilience has launched a new Municipal Forum at the Durban  International Convention Center for Climate Change to implement its Climate Change Strategy, focusing on coordinated actions against severe weather like the 2022 floods, and aligning with the national Climate Change Act. 

The initiative reinforces the city’s alignment with the Climate Change Act, No. 22 of 2024, signed into law earlier this year. Local authorities describe the forum as a crucial mechanism to reduce climate impacts and strengthen preparedness for increased climate - related risks as reported by DUrban TV. 

This multi - stakeholder platform is designated to coordinate the implementation of the Durban Climate Strategy, advance the country’s commitments under the Paris Agreement, and ensure that climate actions reaches the most vulnerable communities.

The forum brings together government, representatives from civil society, traditional leadership structures. academia,  youth groups and other stakeholders to guide mitigation and adaption efforts, emphasizing vulnerable communities and long - term resilience through initiatives like reforestation, green roofs, and infrastructure planning, moving from policy to concrete implementation.

The launch of this strategic platform also featured reports from national and provincial authorities, who detailed how the legal requirements will be translated into actions at the municipal level. Participants received an overview of the climate initiatives underway in Durban, marking the start of a collaborative and strengthened approach to climate governance across the region.

Key Features and Goals of the Durban Climate Strategy and Forum:

•    Multi - Stakeholder Platform: Connects various actors (civil society, traditional leaders, youth, academia) for joint climate action. 
•    Implementation Focus: Moves beyond planning the Climate Action Plan (CAP) with 33 actions for carbon neutrality by 2050.
•    Resilience Building: Addresses impacts like floods, aiming to protect vulnerable households and infrastructure.
•    National Alignment: Strengthens commitment to the Paris Agreement and implements the new Climate Change Act. 
•    Thematic Areas: Include actions like reforestation, green roofs, and community – based adaptation. 
•    Coordinated Governance: Ensures collaboration across national, provinicial, and municipal levels.

According to national climate officials, the new platform is vital to ensure coordination between government structures. A senior representative of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment noted that the Climate Change Act provides a clear framework for joint action.

In essence, South Africa, led by Durban, is creating integrated structures to translate climate commitments into tangible, inclusive, and resilient local actions against a backdrop of increasing climate threats.

Link 

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/sud-frica-lanza-un-nuevo-foro-clim-tico-para-impulsar-la-acci-n-coordinada-sobre-la-estrategia-clim-/

Madrid, Spain | Prado Museum Surpassed Three Million Visitors in 2025

The Prado Museum located in Central Madrid at Calle Ruiz de Alarcón, near the Retiro Park,, the historic Paseo del Prado, the Fountain of Neptune, and major avenues of the Spanish capital, part of the “Art Triangle” with the Reina Sofia and Thyssen - Bornemisza, hosted in a neoclassical building with modern expansions, renowned collections and multiple floors deddicated to different art eras surpassed three million visitors in 2025.

This success is due to its extension and expanded offerings, maintaining a focus a deep cultural experiences over mass tourism with strict photography rules and a commitment to accessibility, drawing largely from international visitors but aiming to connect with a contemporary audience through modern initiatives like a resident writer program.

The museum features an unparelleled collection hosting masterpieces of European art from the 12th to 20th centuries, with a strong focus on the Spanish Golden Age alongside Italian and Flemish works, displaying emblematic works such as Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch, David victor over Goliath by Caravaggio, Las Meninas by Diego Velázquez, The Nude Maja by Francisco de Goya,  The Three Graces by Peter Paul Rubens, among other unique paintings, impressive sculpture collections, with a rich historical legacy as a former royal collection. 

As announced by the institution, until, December 28, the Prado Museum registered a total of 3.479.838 visits, with a significant number of foreign visitors.

During 2025, temporary exhibitions by Antonio Rahael Mengs, Juan Muñoz, Paolo Veronese and relevant pieces such as Rubens' Martyrdom of Saint Andrew were included. 

Key Features and Developments in 2025: 

•    Record Attendance: The museum broke previous attendance records exceeding 3 million visitors, a significant milestone five years after its major extension project, notes www.museodelprado.es.
•    Cultural Mission Focus: Despite high visitor numbers, the Prado Museum emphasizes offering meaningful, educational experiences, contrasting with “amusement park” models, according to Spain Travel News.
•    Strategic Growth: Director Miguel Falomir stresses the need to engage the contemporary public without alienating visitors or overcrowding, as discussed by The Art Newspaper.
•    Enhanced Offerings: The expansion led to increased activities, including modern art shows and a resident writer program featuring acclaimed authors like J.M. Coetzee notes The Art Newspaper. 
•    Strict Photography Policy: The ban on selfies and photos in permanent galleries remains, preserving artistic contemplation as highlighted by Spain Travel News. 
•    Internationaland Local Appeal: While 60-67% of visitors are international, the museum also offers free admission and new content in languages like Ukrainian to boost social inclusion, notes Spain Travel News.

May was the month with the highest number of visits, with 339.062, and 45.35% of the people who accessed the museum for free were international visitors.

Link 
https://infoturlatam.com/museo-del-prado-supera-tres-millones-de-visitas-en-2025/