Italy | Implemented a Strict Regulation for Travel & Tourism Reviews on Social Media

Italy has just established and published a law that the Senate approved on March 4, 2026, implementing strict regulations to tackle fake travel & tourim reviews on social media, booking platforms regardiing hotels and restaurants and other related services, banning anonymity and requiring proof of visit (invoices or confirmations) to prove users visited the establishments to ensure authenticity.  

The law establishes the requirements for reviews on the networks, although the field of publications on foreign pages over which the legislation has no scope is always blurred. 

The penalties for breaking the law can reach €20 million or 4% of the company’s turnover, probably referring to large multinationals in the sector. 

The new rule sets some quite reasonable criteria, for example the review must necessarily be published within 30 days of using the service or product. 

The review says the law, must have written by the person who used the service, who must accurately describe the experience and accompany the comment with the corresponding tax documentation. In this case, when submitting the invoices, the user will not need an identity document. 

Platforms that publish reviews must respond to the requests of the reviewed only when the comments do not comply with the established requirements. Although the possibility of banning comments of a hostile tone had initially been contemplated, this has been ruled out in the final version of the regulation. 

Key features of the Regulation: 

•    Mandatory Identification: The use of anonymous profiles to leave reviews in the hospitality and tourism industry is prohibited. 
•    Proof of Consumption: Users must proe that they actually visited the establishment, for example, theough an invoice or booking conformation. 
•    Fight against misinformation: The law seeks to balance the rights of consumers with the protection of the reputation of tourism businesses. 
•    Publication Deadlines: It has been proposed that reviews should be published within a maximum period of 15 days after the experience. 
•    Serious Penalties: Fines can reach up to €20 million or 4% of the annual turnover of the platform company. 

In essence this pioneering measure seeks to eradicate online reputation manipulation in the hospitality, and tourism & travel sectors. 

Link 
https://infoturlatam.com/italia-regula-las-resenas-de-viajes-en-las-redes/

Kazakhstan | Planning to Build Four New Airports to Boost its Airspace, Transit Capacity and Regional Tourism

Kazakhstan is planning to build four new airports and execute 11 major aviations infrastructure projects by 2028, including two runways and the modernization of existing infrastructure, aiming to boost its airspace, transit capacity, regional tourism and cargo transit.  

Kazakhstan's  Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov chaired a meeting to discuss the country’s transit and transport potential with the launch of new air hubs, and stressed the importance of modernizing infrastructure, implementing digital solutions and increasing the sector’s participation in the national economy.  

These new airports are planned for resort areas including Katon - Karaga, Zaisan, and Kenderli. These projects, alongside two new runways and modernizatino in five cities follow a record established in 2025 when Kazakh civil aviation carried 20.8 million passengers. 

As further development, according to Kazinform, news agency, the network of international routes is planned to be expanded to 135 routes in 30 countries with the aim to place the country as a leading destination in the regional tourism landscape. 

According to the Ministry of Trnasport, the gross production of the transport and storage sector reached 12.2 trillion tenge (approximately $24.400 million) at the end of last year, with a growth of 12.8% in Q1 2025 and it was also reported that last year four road projects totalling 2.000 kilometres were completed.  

In addition, it was reported that it has been possible to reduce the price of domestic aviation fuel to about $800 per ton, which has attracted new international airlines. 

Key Details of Kazakhstan ‘s Airport Expansion: 

•    New Airports: Construction is underway or planned for resorts and key regional areas: Katon - Karagai, Zaisan, Kendirli, and potentially Karaly/ Ulyatu. 
•    Infrastructure Upgrades: Besides four new airports, the projects include building two new runways in Astana and Shymkent, and modernizing airports in five cities. 
•    Capacity Goal: The expansion aim to boost connectivity to tourist destinations, support regional economic, and increase the country’s cargo potential. 
•    Existing Growth: In 2024 - 2025, new terminals were commissioned in Almaty, Shynkent, and Kyzylorda, significantly expanding capacity (for example Almaty rose from 2.5 million to 14 million passengers). 
•    International Reach: By 2026, the international route network is expected to expand to 135 destinations in 30 countries. 

Link 
https://tvbrics.com/es/news/kazajist-n-construir-cuatro-nuevos-aeropuertos-para-impulsar-su-espacio-a-reo/

Ethiopia | Launched a 10 - Year Golden Visa to Attract Foreign Investors

Ethiopia has launched a 10 – year residency permit Golden Visa program to attract foreign investors, offering long - term residency to boost foreign direct investment (FDI) and promote economic growth.

 Announced on 29 March 2026, the Immigration and Citizenship Service (ICS) introduced this initiative as part of broader efforts to modernize immigration and attract capital into key sectors like agriculture, energy, manufacturing, technology and also tourism where the Golden Visa encourages investment in eco - luxury resorts, wildlife tourism, and cultural preservation, which will help the country establish itself as a leading destination for responsible tourism. 

 The standardised elecrtronic permit is designed to provide long - term stability for high - impact investors, allowing them to reside and operate in the African country with reduced bureaucratic hurdles. 

A separate five - year property visa will also be introduced for individuals and families acquiring immovable property in Ethiopia, coinciding with the country’s opening of its real estate sector to foreign nationals.  

Key Details of the Ethiopia Golden Visa: 

•    Duration: 10 years of residency. 
•    Cost: Approximately $10.000, making it one of the most effective investor residency program globally. 
•    Eligibility: Target foreign investors who make significant economic contributions. 
•    Sector Focus: Priority is given to investments in manufacturing, agriculture, energy, technology and tourism.
•    Benefits: Allows holders to reside in Ethiopia for a decade and engage in business. 
•    Real Estate Option: A five - year real estate visa is also being introduced, according to some reports. 
•    Citizenship: The visa does not automatically grant citizenship, which remains a separate legal process.
•    Renewal: Renewal options are available after the 10 – year period.

This move is considered a significant effort by Ethiopia  to strengthen its competitiveness in attracting high - quality, long - term capital within Africa.  

The initiative form part of the government broaqder economic reform agenda. Immigration and Citizenship Service Deputy Director - General Gosda Demissie stated that the Golden Visa will streamline entry and exit procedures, cut processing times, and eliminate repetitive administrative steps, including faster presenting at Addis Abeba’s Bole International Airport.  

Alongside the new visa scheme, the Immigration and Citizenship Service has rolled out a range of modernised services, including digital payment systems, enhanced visa - on arrival options, and improved passport distribution to clear existing backlogs. 

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/ethiopia-introduces-10-year-golden-visa-to-attract-foreign-investors.html

IHG Hotels & Resorts | Developing a New 100 - Key Holiday Inn Hotel in Panaji, India

IHG Hotels & Resorts, British multinational hospitality company headquartered in Windsor, Berkshire, England, UK, has signed a management agreement with NCPL, a hospitality group based in Cochin, Kerala to develop a new 101 - key Holiday Inn hotel in Panaji, the state capital of Goa in southwest India.

Panaji is a vibrant city, located on the banks of the Mandovi River, characterized by its Indo - Portuguese heritage, featuring a unique blend of colonial architecture, colourful Latin quarters, cobblestone streets and avenues lined with elegant villas, gulmohar,. acacia and other trees, concrete buildings with balconies and red - filled roofs, bustling markets, terraced hills, and floating casinos.

The city is  highlighted by its palm - fringed Miramar Beach sits at the confluence of the river and the Arabian Gulf, offering a relaxed alternative to Goa’s beach hubs, historic attractions like the Baroque Our Lady of the Inmaculate Church built in the 16^th - entury located overlooking the main square known as Praça da Igreja, and a rich arts scene.

The development of Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba, scheduled to open in Q1 2030, will expand IHG Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio in India and will be located in Kadamba area, a strategic location connecting to the city centre, also home to new developments, near several landmarks, including the Fontainhas Latin Quarter, Mandovi River Promenade, Dona Paula, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site,  Churches and Convernt of Goa.

The property will feature 100 comfortable rooms, five food and beverage outlets, including an all - day diming restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a bar, a lobby lounge, a pool bar, a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, three meeting event spaces, including a ballroom, and parking facilities.

The hotel will join he 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.

The future opening of Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba is part of  IHG Hotels & Resorts broader strategy of expansion in South Asia in key locations as Goa, a prominent tourist destiantion in India, supported by infrastructure including two operational airports. The state attracts domestic and international visitors, with demand driven by its beaches, heritage areas, and lifestyle offerings.

IHG Hotels & Resorts currently operates over 50 hotels across six brands in India, including Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn Resort, Holiday Inn Express, InteContinental, Six Senses, and voco Hotels, with  a pipeline o 89 hotels expected to open in the next three to five years.

Links

https://www.ihgplc.com/en/news-and-media/news-releases/2026/ihg-signs-holiday-inn-goa-kadamba-strengthening-presence-in-one-of-indias-leading-leisure-destinations

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140876.html

 

Langham Hospitality Group | Set to Expand its Presence in East Asia, with the Launch of a New Hotel in Ningbo, China

Langham Hotels International Limited, trading as Langham Hospitality Group, a hotel operator with its headquarters in Hong Kong, is set to expand its presence in East Asia, with the launch of a new hotel in Ningbo a major city in east China’s Zhejiang province, south of Shanghai on Hangzhou Bay.

Ningbo is renowned as a premier global trade hub, home to the world’s busiest port, Ningbo Zhoushan, by cargo tonnage Ningbo is a bustling industrial city in the Yangtze Delta featuring a 7.000 - year history, highlighted by cultural sites like the Tianyi Pavillion and scenic spots like Dongqian Lake.

The hospitality company has entered into a management contract for The Langham, Ningbo, a new hotel, marking its continued expansion in the Asian market.

The hotel being developed by Ningbo Haixin Holding Group will be the third property managed by Langham Hospitality Group in the city, joining Cordis, Dongqian Lake, and Langham Place, Ningbo Culture Plaza.

The property is situated in the Xiushui Street area of Ningbo’s Haishu District noted for its traditional architecture, an urban area with over 1 million residents, featuring key landmarks like the 1.200 - year - old Drum Tower, blending modern commerce, luxury hotels and trasitional Jiangnan water town scenery, providing access to cultural sites such as Tianyi Pavillion and the Ningbo Confucian  Temple.

The Langham, Ningbo will comprise several period buildings, restored and integrated into the hotel’s site, combining traditional Ningbo architecture with modern design elements.

The hotel will feature 75 comfortable rooms and suites, a destination bar, health, fitness facilities and the first T’ang Court Restaurant in Zhejiang Province, a three - Michelin - starred Cantonese restaurant.

No opening date or additional operational details were provided.

Link

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140669.html

DoverHill | Acquisition of the Mayflower Inn & Spa, Located in Washington, Connecticut, U.S.

DoverHill, a vertically integrated hospitality investment and development organization based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida has expanded its property portfolio with the acquisition of the Mayflower Inn & Spa, located in Washington, a rural town in Lichtfield County, Connecticut, in the Northeastern region of the U.S.

Washington is a scenic, upscale centre renowned as the inspiration for Gilmore Girls’Stars Hollow, featuring charming New England architecture, a thriving arts scene and natural beauty around Lake Waramaug and the Shepaug River, highlighted by the Steep Rock Preserve, historic sites, upscale dining, and boutique shopping.

The property, an exquisite country retreat nestled in 58 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodland is located at 118 Woodbury Road, Route 47, just two hours’ drive from New York City, in an area renowned as one of northeast America’s most distinguished luxury hideaways.

Auberge Collection, a hospitality group headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, owning a variety of hotels, resorts, residences and private clubs will continue to manage the Mayflower Inn & Spa, and DoverHill stated plans for targeted enhancements to the property while maintaining its unique, exciting character. 

Mayflower Inn & Spa features 35 comfortable rooms and cottages, dining venues as The Garden Room and The Tap Room, an outdoor pool, gardens, and a  20.000 - square foot wellbeing facility known as The Retreat.

The property offers a range of estate experiences and programming in addition to its accommodations and amenities.

The establishment has received several industry recognitions, including a Forbes Four - Star Spa designation, an AAS Four Diamond rating, a 1 MICHELIN Key, and has been recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as one of “the highest - rated properties in the world’s each year since 2017, as well as was named “Connecticut’s Leading Resort” by the World Travel Awards 2024.

No financial terms of the transaction were disclosed. The announcent did not specify a closing date or providc further details on the scope or timeline of the planned enhancements.

Links

https://auberge.com/mayflower/

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140805.html

Marriott International | Officially Opened a 200 - Room Sheraton Hotel in Nouakchott, Mauritania

Marriott International,  American multinational hospitality company headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, has officially opened a 200 - room Sheraton hotel in Nouakchot, the capital and largest city of Mauritania, one of the largest cities in the Saharas, located in the southwestern part of the country, a vibrant coastal desert city situated om the Atlantic Ocean, characterized by its bustling Port de Pêche, lively traditional markets like Marché Capitale,  and a blend of modern urban planning with nomadic, and cultural traditions. 

Sheraton Nouakchot, marking Marriott International’s entry into Mauritania, is located on Avenue du Palais des Congres in the Tevragh Zeina district, near the West African Atlantic coast, and key landmarks such as the National Museum of Mauritania,  Marché  Capitale, the city’s fishing port, Nouakchott beaches, a short distance from the Sahara desert, providing an easy access to local amenities and business areas.

The property features 200 comfortable rooms and suites, including two Presidential Suites, equipped with technology and Sheraton - branded amenities.

The Sheraton Club is available to Marriott Bonvoy Elite members and Club guests, providing food and beverage options., amenities, and a private environment.

Dining options at the hotel include two restaurants, a Lobby Bar, and a Pool Bar. Fest, the all - day restaurant, serves locally inspired and international dishes with seasonal ingredients, Bene offers Italian cuisine, while the Lobby Bar serves beverages throughout the day, and the Pool Bar provides drinks and light snacks by the outdoor pool.

Facilities at the hotel include an outdoor pool, a fitness centre with separate floors for men and wonen, a hammam, a sauna, an outdoor tennis court, and a spa with three treatment rooms.

Sheraton Nouakchott also features more than 2.600 square metres of meeting and event space, including a Grand Ballroom, a Ballroom, and four additional meeting rooms, and the hotel also has a dedicated events team.

In addition a Sheraton Community Table is located at the centre of the hotel for informal meetings and remote work.

The property hosts Gatherings by Sheraton, weekly experiences focused on enrichment, renewal, and local stories. Activities at the hotel include Mauritian mixology session with local mint tea and fruits, and storytelling evenings inspired by Saharan traditions.

The hotel joins Sheraton, a distinguished brand that offers mid - to upscale hotels in major cities and resort locations worldwide and it caters to business, leisure and family travel offering a variety of meeting spaces conferences, business facilities and F&b to flexible meeting space with a vision featuring intuitive design and tech - forward experience.

Links

https://www.marriott.com/en-gb/hotels/nkcsi-sheraton-nouakchott-hotel/overview/

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140894.html