Azura Retreats | Announced the Official Opening of Luxury Villas on Benguerra Island, Mozambique

Azura Retreats, a hospitality firm founded by Christopher and Stella Bettany in 2007, the product of a love affair with the country of Mozambique and its people, combined with the desire to create a destination that would appeal to honeymooners and families alike, a company with its head office based in Johannesburg, South Africa, announced the official opening of Azura Marlin Beach. a complex of luxury villas, welcoming guests to a new chapter of relaxed luxury on Benguerra Island, the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago of Southern Mozambique. 

As the newest addition to the portfolio in the Bazaruto Archipelago, Azura Marlin Beach joins sister property Azura Benguerra Island to offer fresh variety and renewed energy in one of Mozambique’ s most spectacular coastal destinations, an island that is approximately 55 square kilometres and lies 14 kilometres offshore from the Mozambique mainland.

The island declared a national park in 1971 is famous for its unspoiled white beaches, forest, savannah, freshwater lakes, a wetland eco - system that sustain a diverse population of fauna and flora, offering various outdoor activities such as horseback riding, fishing and diiving, and home to approximately 140 bird species.

Set on a one kilometres stretch of powdery white sand within the Bazaruto Archipelago Marine National Park, Azura Marlin Beach blends laid - back island living with warm Mozambican hospitality. 

Azura Marlin Beach, perfectly positioned for uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean features ten beautifully designed villas with a blend of of rich Mozambican elements and modern styling.

Guests will have a choice of Beach Villas, Beach Villa Grandes, and Villa Vista that consists of 2 separate suites, a large pool and an entertaining area making this villa perfect for families.

All Azura Marlin Beach villas feature dedicated butler - host service and are designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of Benguerra Island. With thoughtfully designed indoor - outdoor living areas, and a relaxed aesthetic, each villa provides a perfect blend of seclusion, comfort, and island elegance.

The main restaurant and cocktail lounge offer both indoor and outdoor dining, from poolside lunches to beachside dinners, while the rooftop bar is a favourite spot for sunset cocktails and sweeping ocean views.

The food is fresh, vibrant,and full of local flavour, served with warm Mozambican hospitality and the thoughtful touches Azura is known for.

Amenities include a communal swimming pool, a boutique shop for locally inspired clothing and souvenirs, and a fully equipped PADI 5 Star dive centre. 

Fishing is a key part of the experience on Benguerra Island, and Azura Marlin Beach provides a dedicated centre offering tag and release adventures in waters known for the prized Black Marlin.

Managing Director Christoph Bettany said that Marlin Beach brings a fresh, stylish new property to Azura Boutique Retreats’ portfolio, adding a new layer of choice for guests and partners alike. Marlin Beach was designed to feel relaxed with light, airy spaces and luxury villas that open onto the white sand beach and the blue Indian Ocean beyond.

Links 
https://azura-retreats.com/azura-marlin-2/
https://atta.travel/resource/azura-marlin-beach-is-open.html

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts | Planning to Open its First Hotel and Inaugural Branded Residences in Dubai, UAE

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, an international luxury hotel and resort company founded in 1979 in Dallas, Texas, U.S. and currently owned by Hong Kong based Rosewood hotels has announced plans to open its first hotel and branded residences in Dubai, city and Emirate tn the UAE, the United Arab Emirates, located south of the Persian Gulf in the Arabian Peninsula,  known for its ultramodern architecture, luxury shopping, and a vibrant nightlife, an Emirate that relies its economy on revenue from trade, tourism, aviation, real estate and financial services.

The development is part of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts’ expansion in the Middle East and the project aims to integrate the hospitality company with high - end residential offerings, located along Jumeirah Beach with views of Dubai’s skyline.

The property, named Rosewood Dubai and Rosewood Residences Dubai is scheduled to open in 2029, will be situated in Peninsula Dubai, a new waterfront community located in Business Bay, offering a blend of urban living and waterfront lifestyle, an area on the Dubai Canal surrounded by water on three side.

The project is owned by Bright Start, a Dubai - based real estate investment company established in 2001, with development led by H&H, a company headquartered in Dubai that offers integrated real estate services that cover investment, development, property management, and leasing for residential and commercial properties.

The Rosewood Dubai will feature a 195 - room hotel and eight private garden villas, spanning 640.104 square feet, and it will developed with a design incorporating local cultural elements.

The hotel will provide amenities such as a private beach, a beach club, four dining venues , and a wellness centre.Additional facilities will include art, music, and culinary programs, as well as an Explorers Club for children.

The residential component will consist of a tower adjacent to the hotel, offering 63 residences and five beachfront villas. Residents will have access to amenities including a 24 - hour concierge, spa, movement studio, padel court, private cinema, library, and lounge.

Links 
https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/dubai
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article137560.html

Hyatt Hotels Corporation | Announced the Opening of a New Park Hyatt Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, American multinational hospitality company based in Chicago, Illinois has announced the opening of a new Park Hyatt hotel in Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia and country’s largest city, located in the western part of Peninsular Malaysia in the Klang Valley region enclaved within the state of Selangor about 40 kilometres from the coast highlighted by a modern skyline dominated by the 451  metres - tall Petronas Twin Towers, a pair of glass  and steel clad skycrapers with Islamic motifs and also home to British colonial - era landmarks.

The opening of the Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur marks the brand’s debut in Malaysia, and this development adds to Hyatt’s expansion in Southeast Asia, with three new properties opening in Kuala Lumpur within a year.

The new property enters into the Park Hyatt top - tier luxury hotel brand, known to offer refined,  stylish accommodations, personalized service in distinctive global destinations, designed to cater discerning travellers seeking a sophisticated and intimate stay.

Set in the country’s most prominent historic site in the Golden Triangle neighbourhood,  Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur is connected to a railway/undergrounf station, situated within a 10 - minute walk of Petaling Street and 1.2 km from Berjaya Times Square, conveniently located to offer an easy access to discover and enjoy all the main landmarks and historic sites of the Malaysian metropolis.

The hotel is part of the Merdeka 118 precint, which includes historical landmarks such as Stadium Merdeka and the Merdeka Textile Museum  is situated between levels 75 and 114 of Merdeka 118 building, the tallest skyscraper in the Asia Pacific region.

Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur provides unrivalled views from the city’s highest point. In a refined and distinctive experience inspired by Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage and the artful tapestry of Kuala Lumpur’s past and present imbued with a sense of tranquillity.

The hotel’s interior design is inspired by traditional Malay architecture, incorporating elements such as perforated brass screens and natural timber accents.

The Park Hyatt Kuala features 252 comfortable rooms and suites, each designed with floor - to ceiling windows offering stunning views of the city. The guestrooms include amenities such as a full bath with a separate rain shower, a walk - in dressing room, and a personal study area.

Guests at the hotel have access to several dining options. Merdeka Grill offers a modern grill experience with a focus on sustainable seafood and locally sourced produce. Park Lounge provides all - day dining with traditional Malaysian dishes, while Cacao Mixology & Chocolate  themed bar offers chocolate cocktails and handcrafted treats.

The hotel include a wellness centre located on the 99th floor, featuring a yoga studio, fitness centre, treatment suites, circadian therapies designed to align with guest’s energy cycles, and a 30 - metres infinity pool.

For events Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur provides a range of executive salons equipped with natural light and modern technology. These spaces are available for various gatherings including corporate events and private celebrations.

The property also houses a collection of artwork curated by Artlink, the leading global hospitality art consultant specializing in the curation, procurement, and delivery of bespoke art collections for hotel and cruise ships projects worldwide, showcasing local and modern art.

Links 
https://www.hyatt.com/park-hyatt/en-US/kulph-park-hyatt-kuala-lumpur
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article137578.html

Moita, Portugal | Skate Park of Baixa da Banheira : a New Development and Initiative to Enhance Regional Tourism Launched

Moita, a municipality in the district of Setúbal, part of the Greater Lisboa Area, located in the south - west of Portugal, located on the south bank of the Tagus River, originally a fishing village and started to be frequented by the Portuguese nobility as a place of leisure centuries ago, highlighted by the presence of faluas and varinos, typical boats used to cross the river estuary and now used for tourist excursions has the new Skate Park Baixa da Banheira, a new development and initiative to enhance regional tourism.

Located in central and easily accessible area of Baixa da Banheira, a neighbourhood of Moita situated in a huge recess of the Tagus estuary, this new Skate complex was inaugurated on 23th July 2025 and is now part of the urban landscape of the José Afonso Park, providing modern infrastructures for the practice of extreme sports, such as skateboarding, rollerblading and BMX.

The new Skate Park is the result of an investment of €137.555.89 and was an old aspiration of the local community, with a view to promoting a strategy for the enhancement of public spaces, promotion of social cohesion and strengthening the relationships between residents and visitors.

The new space is dedicated to young people and informal sports arising with the aim of boosting the territory and promoting healthier lifestyle habits, and with the advantage that it is located in a central point, with easy access.

Carlos Salsinha, President of ERT - RL, the Regional Tourism Entity of the Lisbon Region stated that this new Skate Park will contribute to enhance regional tourism.

Moita offers a variety of attractions for tourists, including outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy boat tours on the Tagus River, horseback riding excursions at Pátio do Tejo, hiking in the area of Monte da Moita Nova, and also enjoying the beach Praia do Rosário.

Art lovers can visit the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem, a fine example of Baroque religious architecture developed on a Mannerist longitudinal plant.

The town is also known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious food, and offers the opportunity to visit the beautiful capital of Portugal Lisbon that is just 38 kilometres away.

The Lisbon Region is increasingly recognized for its diversity of experiences and the ability to integrate new forms of tourism and leisure in the territory. 

The new Skate Park thus aims to enhance regional tourism, by affirming the municipality of Moita as an urban destination for active regional tourism, which contributes directly to the balance between heritage, nature and sports.

Link 
https://www.publituris.pt/2025/07/23/regiao-de-lisboa-celebra-abertura-do-novo-skate-park-da-baixa-da-banheira

Milan Bergamo Airport, Italy | Evaluating Direct Air Connections to South Asia

Milan Bergamo Airport also formerly known as Orio al Serio International Airport ando officially called Il Caravaggio International Airport after the iconic Baroque painter Michelangelo Merisi known as Caravaggio who worked in the nearby town of Caravaggio, located in the municipality of Orio Al Serio, 5 km from the centre of Bergamo and 50 km from Milan,  one of Ryanair's three main operating bases, along with Dublin Airport and London Stansted Airport is evaluating direct air connections to South Asia.

The Milan metropolitan area and the provinces of Lombardy are home to tens of thousands of residents of Bangladeshi, Indian, Pakistani and Sri Lankan origin and the Il Caravaggio International Airport sees underserved potential for South Asia as a destination having a relevant opportunity to serve numerous travellers residing in the area and coming from this Asian region.

It says Northern Italy, especially the Lombardy region is home to some of the largest South Asian communities in Europe with about half of all Indian nationals in Italy residing in the northern and central regions.

Currently, there are not direct flights to that Asian region, but Il Caravaggio International Airport  is evaluating this option to expand its international routes.

Direct connections could lead to increased passenger traffic and new business opportunities and a potential notable revenue for the Lombard air hub . Taking in consideration this opportunity, Milan Bergamo Airport is actively working to find airlines and partners that can make these direct connections possible.

The airport said that in the absence of nonstop flights from Milan Bergamo to destinations in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan or Sri Lanka, travellers must currently rely on one - stop itineraries and for that Middle Eastern hubs always took advantage.

Over the past two years,  Gulf - based airlines have launched or expanded services at Milan Bergamo Airport specifically, with a eye on transit demand to South Asia.

Director of Commercial Aviation, SACBO, the company manages the Italian airport, Giacomo Cattaneo said that it is important to recognize the immese potential these markets hold for both business, leisure and diaspora travel, and Milan Bergamo Airport is committed to enhancing its airport services.

Link 

https://www.travelmole.com/news/milan-bergamo-airport-targets-direct-south-asia-air-links/

Isla Mujeres, Mexico | Actively Working on Projects to Restore Beach Access Points and Protecting Seaside Walkways

Isla Mujeres, a city located on the island of the same name where the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea meet, located about 13 kilometres of the Yucatán Peninsula coast and 3 kilometres from Cancun in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, is actively working on projects to restore beach access access points and protecting seaside walkways, making it easier for both locals and visitors to enjoy the stunning beaches of this popular destination.

The city is experiencing development in both real estate, enhancing tourism infrastructure and improving its appeal. Recent developments include new luxury condos like Sierra Mar, and the expansion of tourist attractions like Garrafón Park and Dolphin Discovery facilities, and this move will reiforce furthermore the urban image of the city.

Municipal Mayor Atenea Gómez Ricalde said that these operations are part of a project aims to regularize and restore access to the sea in areas better known as “bocacalles” or street corner intersections that directly connects local neighborhoods to the shoreline. 

The project is being carried out through various municipal departments including Urban Development, Environment and Ecology, Cadastre and the Federal Maritime – Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat).

Authorities began the street access restoration at Playa Norte, a beach situated on the north end of Isla Mujeres where two street corner intersection were restored, one at end of Hidalgo Street and another at the end of Carlos Lazo Street.

Municipal Planning Director Soledad Che Celis said that the program aims to return beach access to the residents so they can enjoy the beautiful beaches of Isla Mujeres adding that the work is also being done to regularize beach lounge chairs and beds along the waterfront so that concessionaires respect the permitted space.

The official also said that from where the waves break, a five - metres strip should be left clear so that local families and tourists have space to walk freely along the seashore.

The Municipal Planning Director reiterated that the Municipal Government is actively working, committed to continuing to promote tourism while maintaining order.

Link 
https://riviera-maya-news.com/isla-mujeres-starts-projects-to-restore-beach-access-and-ensure-free-passage/2025.html?cn-reloaded=1

Arequipa, Peru | Officially Recognized as the Country's First Smart Tourist Destination

Arequipa, the colonial - era capital of Peru’s Arequipa region, located on the banks of of the Chilli River at the foot of the great El Misti volcano, filled with baroque buildings constructed from sillar, a white volcanic stone and for that nicknamed “Ciudad Blanca" (Spanish for “White City”) , a major cultural and economic centre, the seat of the Constitutional Court of Peru and often dubbed the “legal capital of Peru” highlighted by its historical centre extends over an area of 332 hectares and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been officially recognized as the country’s first smart destination.

The city is now an Adhered Smart Tourist Destination (STD),  a recognition delivered by the Secretary of State for Tourism of Spain, through SEGITTUR, the State Agency for the Management of Tourism Innovation and Technology, becoming the first Peruvian destination to receive this distinction.

A “smart Tourist Destination” refers to a tourist area that utilizes technology and innovation to enhance the visitor experience, promote sustainability, and improve overall destination management. These destinations integrate digital solutions, optimize resource management, foster accessibility and inclusivity throughout the tourism cycle.

The provincial Municipality of Arequipa was evaluated based on a methodology composed of 97 requirements and 261 indicators. The result was a diagnostic report with a roadmap that will allow progress towards a more transparent, participatory tourism management focused on the quality of life of residents and visitors.

The recognition achieved by Arequipa is valid until July 2027 and reflects the beginning of a transformation process based on accessibility, governance, innovation, sustainability and technology an achievement is part of a strategic plan to position the city and Peru at the forefront of smart tourism in Latina America.

This certification is part of the cooperation agreement between Mincetur, the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru and SEGITTUR to implement the Smart Tourism Destination (STD) methodology that according a planned strategy aims to continue to have an application in various Peruvian destinations. 

The STD model is a framework that leverages technology and data to improves various aspects of a tourist destination and proposes a cross - cutting vision of tourism, incorporation key dimensions such as territorial planning, technological innovation and sustainability, in a process of continuous improvement adapted to the current and future challenges of the sector.

This milestone also marks a key step in the internationalization of the STD model, which has already been adopted in other Latin American destinations such as Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay and Uruguay, consolidating a regional network of destinations committed to smarter and more inclusive tourism management.

Link 
https://tres60.travel/arequipa-se-convierte-en-el-primer-destino-turistico-inteligente/

Amsterdam, The Netherlands | Plan to Limit River Cruise Ships Revealed

The authorities  of Amsterdam. major centre of the Netherlands revealed some measures it plans to implement to reduce river cruise traffic. City officials note it welcomed nearly 2.000 river ship calls in 2024, after hosting 2.300 ships in 2023 and looking ahead, Travel Weekly, the most influential B2B news resources for the travel industry , reports that river cruise lines will receive an annual reduction quota for 2026, based on 2025 bookings.

Amsterdam river cruise industry is facing changes as the city aims to manage the impact of tourism, particularly river cruise traffic. The city council plans to reduce the number river cruise ships calls by a nearly half to a maximum of 1.150 by 2028. This is part of a broader effort to address overcrowding and improve the overall quality of life in the city.

While river cruises are seen as a less problematic form of tourism than large ocean liners, the sheer volume of visitors has led to concerns about overcrowding and its impact on residents.

The European River Cruise Association, representing river cruise lines, formed a task force in cooperation with city officials to share thoughts to work on a workable solution to overtourism concerns and likely phasing in reductions, there will be a river ship quota starting next year, with the exact number still being discussed.

The Association highlighted that currently river cruise visitation represents about 2% of the total visitation to Amsterdam, fuelling about $257 million in direct tourism.

Despite this relevant performance in terms of revenue, Amsterdam wants to reduce the number of visitors via river by around 250.000 by 2028 and the European River Cruise Association hopes to agree a compromise with the authorities of the city.

An Association board member and group CFO of river cruise operator Scylla, Robert Verbeek told Travel Weekly that river cruising could be a solution and is not part of the of the problem, calling river cruise tourism temporary and also manageable since stops are typically brief.

The hope among industry leaders is to reach an agreement with the authorities of Amsterdam to dock river cruise ships only during approved periods.

A further chapter concerns Amsterdam’s tentative plans to cut down on ocean cruise ships too. The strategy is to relocate ocean ship docking berths out of Amsterdam within the next decade, as part of a broader policy to better manage tourism and cut overcrowding, allowing to dock 100 per year starting in 2026.

In addition Amsterdam authorities have already led to plan to suspend new hotel projects and implementing actions to crackdown on tourist’s anti – social beahaviour.

Link 
https://www.travelpulse.com/news/river-cruise/amsterdam-river-cruise-cap-overtourism-plan

New York City, U.S. | Libby : A New AI Travel Genius and Guide for Visitors Powered by GuideGeek Launched

New York City, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, a major global city, known for its diversity, economic influence, and cultural significance, located at the mouth of the Hudson River in southeastern New York state, the most populous city in the U.S.offering a plethora of places to visit for tourists, including iconic landmarks,  vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural attractions, through New York City Tourism + Conventions, the official marketing, tourism and partnership organization for the five boroughs of New Yorkm, launched Libby, short for Liberty, a new AI Travel Genius and guide for visitors powered by GuideGeek.

Travellers visiting New York City can now rely on Libby, a unique AI tool that provides instant responses to any travel or tourism questions about the five boroughs of the American city in 60 languages making it accessible to a wide range of travellers, and leverages GuideGeek artificial intelligence technology from Matador Network, the world’s No.1 media brand for modern adventurers and creator of the award - winning AI travel genius GuideGeek.

The company with more than 16 million followers across social media, has become a leading travel brand through its production of article features, city guides, creator first - content and original videos. 

In addition Matador Network is the top - ranking travel brand on TikTok and its videos are viewed more than 140 million per month. The firm has content distribution deals with destinations throughout the world and major brands in travel industry and beyond.

Libby, short for Liberty is an ideal partner to visit New York City assisting visitors, or locals exploring the five boroughs of the American metropolis, with tailored travel tips and itineraries,connecting people to local businesses, attractions and cultural experiences.

The personalized, real - time responses are generated by AI trained or extensive data from NYC Tourism, couples with over 1.000 integrations for travel information from GuideGeek’s award – winning technology.

To access Libby, travellers can visit nyctourim.com and click the chat icon in the bottom - right corner. They can also connect with the AI travel genius on WhatsApp or Instagram to ask questions and receive tips on the go while exploring the city. In addition, 4.000 plus LinkNYC screens at transit stop will promote this AI travel guide to visitors and locals.

The launch of Libby, short for Liberty follows the success of Ellis, the first meetings and conventions event professionals, launched by NYC Tourism and GuideGeek earlier this year. Ellis doubled traffic to NYC Tourism’s meeting website within the first month and now Libby will add new useful resources and information, becoming an ideal partner for travellers of all sorts.

CEO President and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions, Julie Coker, said that the organization is pleased to unveil Libby, the official AI chat platform for exploring New York City. As the institution gears up for America 250 celebrations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, New York City Tourism + Conventions is proud to offer this free, innovative tool in 60 languages that empowers global visitors to craft unique itineraries and discover unforgettable experiences across all five boroughs.

Matador Network CEO, Ross Borden said that it is absolutely impossible to do or see everything in New York City, even if you visit often or live there. Libby helps visitors and those exploring a new corner of the city instantly find restaurants, activities and hidden gems that really align with their interests and preferences.

Link 
https://www.iloveny.com/thebeat/post/nyc-tourism-conventions-launches-libby-a-new-ai-travel-genius-for-visitors-powered-by-guidegeek/

Azura Retreats | Announced the Official Opening of Luxury Villas on Benguerra Island, Mozambique

Azura Retreats , a hospitality firm founded by Christopher and Stella Bettany in 2007, the product of a love affair with the country of Mo...