Camagüey, Cuba | The City’s University Launched an Innovative Project Using AI to Improve Energy Efficiency in Hotels

The University of Camagüey (UC), Cuba’s third largest city and the capital of the province of the same name, which extends from the centre of the island towards the east, a colonial city with a rich cultural and historical heritage, famous for its UNESCO - listed meandering pastel - coloured alleyways coze history has launched am innovative project that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve energy efficiency in hotels.

The initiative, developed by a team od researchers and students, is a predictive system that aims to optimize the consumption of electricity and other energy resources in tourist facilities.

According to information from Prensa Latina, the official state news agency of Cuba, headquartered in Havana, the project seeks to anticipate deviation in energy consumption and correct them in real time, which represents a key advance in the country’s economic sovereignty and strategy. 

The software developed within the framework of this project is reusable and could be adapted to hotel chains in other countries, demonstrating the capacity and competitiveness of Cuban biotechnology in areas outside the health sector.

The project also contributes to the training of new professionals, with students involved in data collection and programming of the system and is expected to be completed in 2026, leaving an important footprint on energy efficiency and talent development in Cuba.

This initiative has received the support of the Cuban Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR), which has approved its implementation in a network of hotels and recognizes the value of national scientific capital.

The University of Camagüey (UC) is actively promoting Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Cuba and also engaging in international collaborations especially with India.

The Cuban University is currently leading various initiatives focused on national needs including projects using IoT and cloud computing for better water water management in partnership with the National Institute of Hydraulic Resources to combat waste and improve sustainability, positioning itself as a key player in Cuba’s growing AI for socio - economic development.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/cuba-impulsa-la-inteligencia-artificial-en-el-sector-tur-stico/

Milan, Italy | The City Council Has Banned Self - Key Boxes for Short - Term Rentals

Milan, the capital of the Lombardy region and the second largest city in Italy, through its City has banned self - check in key boxes for short - term rentals, effective early 2026, requiring hosts to meet guests in person. 

This initiative is part of a broader national and city level effort in the country to address overtourism, ensure public safety, regulate the short – term rental market and to stop improper use of public space.

 Milan is not the first Italian city to implement such a measure; Bologna, Florence, Rome, and Venice have introduced similar bans in a nationwide directive for in - person guest checks, trying to put a stop to the lack of control of tourist rental and with fines that will range from €100 to €400 for non - compliance.

 In these cities, this measure of the keys was already being applied. But, apart from criticisms and proclamations, in general little else is being done to limit the expansion of this phenomenon, massive throughout Italy. Key boxes are often seen as unsightly and contributing to the “decorum” issues of historic city centres. Owners can perfectly well leave the keys in the ubiquitous mailboxes for parcel delivery, which Amazon and countless other platforms use.

Until a year ago, homeowners did not have to see the tenant and could only have doigital contact. Not now, national law requires that there be face - face contact, and the size of the boxes adds more need for the presence of the owner or a representative when the customer arrives. Italy had banned registration for apartment rentals on these platforms at the end of 2024, for security reasons, now requiring the landlord to physically see tenants.

The National Interior Ministry has mandated in person guest identification to prevent the accommodation of potentially dangerous individuals or those linked to criminal organizations. Self - check - in via key boxes makes it harder to track guests effectively.

 Why Milan City Council Implemented the Ban : 

·       Security Concerns: To prevent illegal activities like drug dealing and the housing of dangerous individuals, linked to the lack of face – to face guest identification.

·       Overtourism and Public Space: The proliferation of boxes on street furniture is seen as an eyesore and an improper use of public land for private gain, impacting residents.

·       Accountability: Ensures hosts can verify guest identities, a practice emphasized by the Italian Interior Ministry.

·   Key Details of the Milan Ban:

·      Scope: The ban specifically target key boxes, lockboxes, and similar devices installed on street furniture, road signs, fences, gates, light poles or other structures on public land.

·     Deadline: The ban on key boxes in public spaces takes effect in January 2026. Property owners have been given a grace period to comply.

·    Penalties: Homeowners who do not comply with the new rules face fines ranging from €100 to €400, in addition to covering the costs incurred by the municipality for removing the non – compliance boxes.

·    In - Person Check - in: Mandates hosts to verify guest identities visual.

TThe outlook for short – term rental operators relying on physical key boxes in public spaces will need to transition to alternative methods. This includes meeting guests in person or adopting modern, secure digital or smart technologies that comply with identity verification laws.

AiAirbnb has commented that while it supports a flexible check - in experience, it looks forward to working with the Italian government on solutions that meet safety needs.

Link 

https://www.preferente.com/noticias-de-hoteles/milan-prohibe-las-cajas-de-las-llaves-de-airbnb-346984.html

Quezon City, The Philippines | Officially Recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Film

Quezon City, a vibrant centre in the Philippines located on the Guadalupe Plateau, just northeast of Manila, known for its culture, entertainment industry and media, and is apty called the “City of Stars” where broadcasting networks and studios have their headquarters, also renowned for its commerce, education, research, technology, politics, tourism, art and sports has officially been recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Film.

This prestigious title recognizes Quezon City rich cinematic heritage, vibrant film industry, and commitment to developing Filipino stories and filmmakers through initiatives like the QC Screen Academy and QCinema.

This designation, one of the first in Southeast Asia solidifies the city status as the “Heart of Philippine Cinema” , highlighting Quezon City's contributions to Philippine film industry and its efforts to promote creativity, fair labour practices, talent development, cultural innovation, and global visibility for Filipino films.

The inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network of Film cements the the city’s position as the country’s film capital, home to major studios, filmmakers, and cultural institutions.

As a member of the network, Quezon City will strengthen policies for film workers, such as enforcing the Eddie Garcia law to ensure safe working conditions and fair wages and will also expand programs for skills development and international collaboration to support local filmmakers.

The recognition follows Quezon City’s earlier declaration as the “Heart of Philippines Cinema” and its adoption of the theme “QC Film City” for this year’s QCinema International Film Festival.

The Quezon City Film Commission (QCFC), which led the city’s application in 2023, will implement several projects under the new designation, including the QC Screen Academy, a training hub for film professionals; the Global Producers Exchange (GPX), a collaborative platform for producers from Southeast Asia and UNESCO Creative Cities; and the Southeast Asia Film Summit, an annual event for regional policymakers and film industry leaders.

Quezon City's Major Joy Belmonte said the recognition honours the legacy of Filipino artists and filmmakers. QC Film City is now a name that will forever be etched in legacy of every filmmaker, artist, and storyteller who has shaped Quezon City’s vibrant film heritage.

From the golden era Sampaguita Pictures and the brilliance of icon like Lino Brocka, Dolphy, Nora Aunor, and Fernando Poe Jr., to the new generations of creators bringing the local stories to life today, this recognition honours each and every one of them.

The major added that this title is also for the workers behind the screen and Quezon City citizens who deserve access to quality film, celebrating a big achievement in the Philippine' film industry , but the work starts again tomorrow.

QCFC Executive Director Liza Diño said that the achievement reflects the city’s long - term  vision for creative governance. This is not just a recognition of what Quezon City has achieved, it is a call to deepen the commitment to creative governance and cultural sustainability. The local Institutions are ready to take on this responsibility, to open the doors to collaboration, and to continue building a city where stories thrive and creativity empowers every citizen.

This recognition positions Quezon City as a key player in the global film community and joins other cities worldwide recognized by UNESCO as a centre for using creativity as a driver of sustainable development.

Link

https://mb.com.ph/2025/11/02/quezon-city-recognized-as-unesco-creative-city-of-film

London, England, UK | On Track to Implement a New Tourist Tax to Curb Overtourism

London, the UK's capital and largest city is on track to implement a new tourist tax on overnight visitors to hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, and short-term holiday rentals, including those booked through platforms like Airbnb with the aim to curb overtourism.

This new "visitor levy" is part of a plan by the Greater London Authority as a model to give mayors across England the authority to charge such a fee, which could help fund cleaner streets, financing the maintenance of infrastructure, public spaces and improving local services used by millions of visitors each year.

The charge is expected to be small, modest fee per night, though the exact amount and structure (flat fee or percentage) will vary between different locations, and it is also intended to be a move that aligns the UK with practices already common in other European cities like Berlin, Paris, and Rome. 

 The measure will be enabled by the British government through the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, which will allow the Mayor Sadiq Khan, and other local leaders to apply taxes to hotels, tourist apartments, campsites, caravan parks and Airbnb - type accommodation. This tax would be in addition to the current Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which costs £16.

 In 2024 London recorded 89 million overnight stays, which has intensified the pressure of public transport, urban cleaning and diverse municipal services. With this new tax tool, the British capital could raise up to £240 million a year, resources that would be used to promote tourism, protect heritage, developing cultural activities and improving the visitor experience.

London's Mayor Sadiq Khan defended the measure as a way to redistribute the costs of tourism and prevent residents from unintentionally suffering the consequences of overcrowding, saying the aim to keep London one of the most attractive cities in the world.

London would be the first city in the UK to apply this new tax, expected in spring 2026, after a period a period of consultations and local authorities, and other cities such as Birmingham, Liverpool and Manchester could follow the same path.

This initiative has generated criticism in the sector. UK Hospitality warned that the new tax could affect the competitiveness of hotels and make domestic holidays more expensive, while international associations, such as Australia's ATIA, warned that London could become less attractive compared to other destinations due to rising costs.

 Link

https://infoturlatam.com/londres-prepara-nuevo-impuesto-para-frenar-el-sobreturismo/

Hilton | Portfolio Expansion in South Asia with the Opening of a new Resort in Hyderabad, India

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc., American multinational hospitality company based in Tysons, Virginia has announced the opening of a new resort in Hyderabad, the capital of southern India Telangana state located on the Deccan Plateau along the banks of the Musi River.

Hyderabad is famous for its historical landmarks like the Charminar, a 16th century mosque whose 4 arches support towering minarets, an old city landmark near the long - standing Laad Bazaar, Golconda Fort, a dormer diamond trading - centre that was once the Quib Shahi dynastic capital, its status as the “City of Pearls", and its distinctive cuisine,  particularly Hyderabadi Biryani. The city is also a major hub for technology, pharmaceuticals, and traditional handicrafts like Pochampally sarees and Bidri work.

The Hilton Hyderabad Genome Valley Resort & Spa development is part of Hilton’s ongoing portfolio expansion in South Asia, marking the company’s first property in Hyderabad.

The resort is situated in Genome Valley in the Turkapally area of Medchal - Malkajgiri District in the suburbs of Hyderabad. Genoma  Valley is a 2000 - acre high - technology area focused on sciences and technology, a major hub for pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and other life science organitazions.

The property spans 20 acres and its design incorporates elements inspired by Telangana’s cultural heritage, specifically Kakatiya architecture, known for its detailed stonework, intricate carvings, adorn pillars, walls, ceilings and sandbox foundations for earthquake resistance.

Sustainable design practices have been integrated into the construction, utilizing locally sourced materials and energy - efficient systems.

Hilton Hyderabad Genome Valley Resort & Spa features 115 guest accommodations, including 13 pool villas and six suites.

Dining options at resort include several venues offering international and local cuisines. These include Gingerfire, which focuses on Asian flavours, Yuzu, which provides a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, Nikkei and Thai cuisines, Nero, a poolside restaurant, and Drip, a quick - service outlet or tea, coffee, and pastries.

The resort also includes a spa under the eforea brand, which is making its debut in India. The spa features eight treatments rooms and offers a range of wellness services.

For events and meetings the property offers 89.000 square feet of event spaces which includes two pillarless ballrooms, five meeting rooms, and outdoor areas such as a pool deck and expansive lawns. These facilities are intended to cater to both corporate events and large – scale celebrations, such as weddings.

Recreational activities at resort include facilities for basketball, pickleball, cricket, futsal, mini golf, tennis and a dedicated arcade and gaming area for children.

The opening of the The Hilton Hyderabad Genome Valley Resort & Spa adds to Hilton’s portfolio in Asia Pacific, which includes recent additions in Shanghai, China and Kyoto, Japan.

Links

https://stories.hilton.com/releases/hilton-expands-flagship-brand-in-india-with-debut-in-hyderabad

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139149.html

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts | Launched its Baymont Brand in East Asia with the Opening of a Hotel in Kunming, China

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, an American hospitality company known as one of the largest franchisors in the world, founded in 1981 in Dallas, Texas and based in Parsippany, New Jersey has launched its Baymont by Wyndham brand in East Asia with the opening of a hotel in Kumming, the capital and largest city of the province of Yunnan in southwestern China,  located at an altitude of 1.900 metres in the middle of the Yunnan - Guizhou Plateau, just north of the Tropic of Cancer.

Kunming is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its mild, year round climate making it a popular destination with abundant flowers and scenic landscapes. Historically a relevant gateway of the Silk Road, the city is famous for natural and historical attractions like the UNESCO - listed Stone Forest and Dian Lake, nearby is Yuantong Sim, a temple founded by Buddhists in the 8^th century and today, a centre known for its vibrant ethnic minority culture and as an important hub for scientific research.

The opening of Baymont Kunming Wuhua marks the brand’s first property outside the Americas and is part of Wyndham’s strategy to expand its presence in the midscale segment across Asia - Pacific. The company views China’s post - pandemic travel recovery as a significant growth opportunity.

The hotel caters to both business and leisure travellers is situated at Building B1, Greenland Cloud Society, Wangqiong Road in the lively Wuhua District near local attractions, including Yunnan Wildlife Park, Cuihu Park and Qionzhu Temple,  within 10 - minute drive of Kumming University of Science and Technology and Yunnan Normal University, 6.6 km form Yunnan University, and 7.2 km from Green Lake Park.

The property features 92 comfortable rooms equipped with amenities such as screen HDTV’s, coffee and tea makers, minibars, and workspaces.

The hotel offers a daily breakfast, complimentary Wi -Fi,  fitness facilities, 300 square metres of meeting space across two venues, accommodating up to 180 guests for conferences or 150 for banquets and onsite parking.

The property joins Baymont by Wyndham brand, currently operates more than 550 hotels across North America, a brand of midscale hotels known its “hometown hospitality”. The chain offers comfortable rooms and suites, often with on - site fitness centres, and focuses on providing a welcoming and familiar atmosphere for both leisure and business travellers.

Links

https://investor.wyndhamhotels.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/400/baymont-by-wyndham-makes-asia-pacific-debut-in-kunming

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139059.html

Hyatt Hotels Corporation | Announced the Opening of a 142 - Room Hyatt Place Hotel in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, American multinational hospitality company, based in Chicago, Illinois has announced the opening of a 142 - room Hyatt Place hotel in Mérida, the vibrant capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán, an iconic colonial city known as the “Ciudad Blanca” (The White City) blending rich Mayan heritage with Spanish architecture, colourful streets, and a relaxed pace.

The city features relevant attractions like its beautifully preserved historic centre with pastel buildings, grand mansions, and iconic yellow arches, the stunning square Plaza Grande, the stylish Paseo de Montejo boulevard, Mayan ruins (Chichén, Itzá, Uxmal), cenotes, a unique cuisine highlighted by the famous "Cochinita Pibil" dish, and lively culture with free music and dancing in its bustling plazas,  renowned as one of Mexico’s safest cities, offering a tranquil yet cosmopolitan vibe.

The opening of the new Hyatt Place Mérida / Via Montejo marks the second Hyatt - branded hotel in the Yucatán state and its development is the result of a collaboration with Inmobilia Desarollos, a leading development company headquartered in Mérida, specializing in premium real estate, well known for creating outstanding high yield project across Mexico and beyond.

The 11 - story hotel is situated in Avenida Prolongacion Paseo de Montejo, C 60 n°1, Zona Industrial, Colonia Via Montejo within the Via Montejo development, a mixed - use area of the city that includes residential buildings, commercial spaces anchored by the Harbor Lifestyle Mall, and corporate offices.

The property is located directly across a new U.S. Consulate and Mexico ‘s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, approximately 20 minutes from Mérida International Airport and is strategically positioned to benefit from the Tren Maya and IE - Tram route, enhancing connectivity to beaches, archaeological sites, and relevant cities such as Cancún and Tulum.

The hotel features 142 guestrooms with city views, each rooms includes separate spaces for sleeping, working, and relaxing, along with a Cozy Corner sofa - sleeper and a setting area.

Hyatt Place Mérida / Via Montejo offers several dining options, including a complimentary breakfast, at the Breakfast Bar, a 24/7 Market with grab - and - go meals, and The Placery, a lobby bar serving specialty coffee and alcoholic beverages.

Additional amenities include an outdoor terrace and pool, a 24/7 fitness center, and complimentary self-parking and the hotel also offers 1.077 square feet of meeting and event space, including two meeting rooms that can be combined for larger events.

 The new hotel joins the Hyatt Place brand that emphasises a casual atmosphere and practical amenities for the multi - tasking traveller, featuring spacious guestrooms with distinct zones for sleeping, working and relaxing. The brand combines style, innovation and 24/7 conveninence to create a seamless stay with modern comforts.

 Links

https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-place/en-US/midzm-hyatt-place-merida-via-montejo

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139126.html