The Capital Hotel Group | To Open a 145 - Unit Aparthotel in Gqebertha, South Africa

The Capital Hotels, Apartments, and Resorts, also known and trading as The Capital Hotel Group, a South African hotel chain founded in 2008 and headquartered in Sandton, Johannesburg, offering serviced apartments and hotel accommodation will open a 145 - unit aparthotel in Gqeberha, also known as Port Elizabeth, a major seaport and the most populous city in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and the seat of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality.

The Capital Boardwalk set to open in April 2026 is a R270 investment by the Capital Hotel Group, expanding the brand’s national footprint and targeting extended - stay and corporate demand.

The property is situated in Gqeberha’s Boardwalk precinct, a vibrant, integrated leisure and retail hub centred around the Boardwalk Mall, linking the Sun International Casino, the Boardwalk Hotel, and Hobie Beach, offering shopping, dining, entertainment, and direct beach access, with ongoing developments enhancing its status as modern coastal destinations for locals and tourists.

With direct mall access and proximity to business and industrial hubs, the development is positioned to bolster the city’s tourism offer and support local employment.

The establishment, ideal for extended stays, corporate clients, and leisure travellers, cominbing apartment flexibility with hotel services, will feature 145 - unit apartment hotel, including standard rooms, studios and one - to three bedroom apartments plus penthouses, with in - unit kitchens and laundry.

The aparthotel will provide  flexible housekeeping, co - working and conference facilities, a restaurant and bar, gym, pool deck and family - friendly leisure spaces, alongside complimentary high - speed Wi-Fi, 24 - hour reception and secure, mall - linked parking; accessible accommodation includes a Paraplegic Executive Room.

The project is expected to create more than 500 jobs during construction and 170 - 200 permanent roles once operational, with CEO Marc Wachsberger citing strong prospects for Gqeberha as a coastal business and leisure hub.

Link

https://atta.travel/resource/the-capital-to-open-gqeberha-s-first-aparthotel-in-april.html

Scandic Hotels | Revealed the Development of a New 170 - Room Scandic Go Hotel in Tromsø, Norway

Scandic Hotels, a Swedish hotel chain based in Stockholm, a pioneer within sustainability boasting the majority of its properties certified with the Nordic Ecolabel requirement, revealed the development of its second Scandic Go hotel in Tromsø, famous city located on the island of Trømsoya in the Trømsoysundet strait, just off the mainland Northern Norway, a strategic gateway to discover the stunning islands of Kvaløya and Ringvassøy and the beautiful Lyngenfjord region.

For the development Scandic Hotels entered into a long - term lease agreement with Nordlyskvartalet AS, a firm operates within the Estate Agency activities industry and headquartered in Tromsø.

The development is part of a broader mixed - use project led by Nordlyskvarnet, representing a strategic move by Scandic Hotels to expand its presence in key destinations in the Nordic Region. The Swedish company currently has two hotels in Tromsø and has identified the Norwegian city as a market with growing tourism demand.

This will be the second Scandic Go property in Norway and the third Scandic - branded hotel in Tromsø, joining Scandic Isshavvshotel and the Dock 69°39 by Scandic, which opened recently. Tromsø will become the first location outside of a capital city in Norway where all three Scandic brands are present, in an area that has seen increased tourism and hospitality sector activity in recent years.

Construction is scheduled to begin after summer of 2026 with the hotel expected to open in 2028. The establishment will be located in a new mixed - use development in central Tromsø, that will also include residential housing and municipal services and will provide approximately 170 rooms.

The Property will operate under the Scandic Go brand, a budget - friendly, urban hotel brand designed for the economy segment, offering essentials at a lower price point to allow to spend more time and money exploring the destination. 

The establishment will prioritize the use of recycled materials and is planned to be certified by the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, the official environmental certification in the Nordic countries.

Scandic Hotels’s expansion in Tromsø reflects ongoing investment in the Norwegian hospitality sector and continued interest in the region as a relevant travel destination.

Link

https://www.scandichotelsgroup.com/media/press-releases/2026/scandic-go-to-open-in-tromso/

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139574.html

Six Senses Hotels, Resorts and Spas | Unveiled the Upcoming Opening of a New Property in London, England, UK

Six Senses Hotels, Resorts and Spa, a luxury brand founded in 1995 and owned by IHG Hotels & Resorts, British multinational hospitality company based in Windsor, Berkshire, England, UK, a brand known for its sustainable and wellness - focused hospitality unveiled the upcoming opening of a new property in the capital of the United Kingdom, London.

The Six Senses London’s opening will introduce new hospitality, wellness, comfort and community spaces in the British metropolis, with operations scheduled to begin on March 1, 2026 making the brand’s first location in the United Kingdom.

The hotel is located at 149 Queensway, within The Whiteley, a luxury residential and mixed - used development built within the restored Grade II - listed former Whiteleys department store, in Bayswater, a lively area in the city of Westminster, nestled between Kensington Gardens, Paddington and Notting Hill, west of Edgware Road.

Bayswater area features grand Victorian architecture, proximity to Hyde Park, diverse eateries on the bustling Queensway, historic sites like Porchester Spa, and excellent transport link, creating a cosmopolitan hub highlighted by attractive garden squares, and a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities. Its cultural mix attracts diverse residents, offering a blend of historic buildings,  international food, captivating shops, and easy access to central London’s attractions. 

 The hotel’s development is part of the ongoing reactivation of the Whiteley London and the surrounding neighbourhoods of Bayswater and Queensway.

The property has been designed by AvroKO, a prolific interiors firm behind some of today’s chicest hospitality hubs based in New York City, with other offices in Bangkok, London, Miami, and San Francisco in collaboration with EPR Architects, a renowned London - based architectural practice first established in late 1945 by Cecil Elsom. 

The property will feature 109 comfortable and stylish rooms and suites, 14 branded residences, and Six Senses Place London, the company’s first private member club.

Facilities will aslo include dining venues such as Whiteley’s Kitchen, Bar and Café, and spaces dedicated to wellbeing, sustainability, and community engagement.

Six Senses London reports creating over 300 roles for the opening. The hotel will be led by Nick Yarnell, General Manager, who also serves as Regional General Manager for Europe. The founding leadership team includes Taffryn Kinsey - Ellis as Director of Wellness, Charlotte Pulver as Head Alchemist, Nico Eden as Director of Six Senses Place, Alisa Kerr as Director of Programming, Eliano Crespi as Executive Chef, Jelena Belgrave as Fermentation Expert, and Patrick Jones as Director of Sustainability.

Wellness programming will be overseen by Kinsey - Ellis and Pulver, who will manage spa, recovery, and longevity services. Eden and Kerr will be responsible for programming and community initiatives, including talks, workshops, and gartherings. Crespi and Belgrave will lead food and fermentation programs, working with local farms and incorporating ancestral cooking techniques and fermentation processes into the hotel’s dining offerings.

Sustainability efforts will be managed by Jones, who will oversee the integration of circular practices into hotel operations and manage community - impact initiatives through the hotel’s Sustainability Fund, in partnership with local organizations.

The hotel joins Six Senses, a leading hospitality brand known for its sustainable, wellness - focused hotels, resorts, and spas, acquired by IHG Hotels & Resorts in 2019., emphasizing deep connection with nature, local culture, and personalized well - being through unique designs, local experiences, and integrated wellness programs.

The brand offers sublime guest experiences, from island escapes to desert hideaways and urban retreats, focusing on holistic health, environmental responsibility, and creating a “story doer” approach rather than just “storytelling”, making each property distinct yet upholding high standards. 

Links

https://www.sixsenses.com/en/hotels-resorts/europe/united-kingdom/london/

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article139609.html

Catalonia, Spain | Increasing its Tourist Tax from April, with Rates Expected to Reach Up to €15 per Person/Night

The autonomous community of Catalonia located in the northeast of Spain is increasing its tourist tax, with rates expected to reach up €15 per person/night in Barcelona in a five - star hotel  by 2029, following agreements by political parties to double fees and add municipal surcharges, starting with a phased increase from April 2026 for the rest of Catalonia and an immediate rise in Barcelona’s city tax. 

The tax according to the Catalan authorities covers both regional and city - specific charges, with funds directed towards housing and local infrastructure.

El País, a renowned Spanish daily newspaper based in Madrid, stated that the rate increase, agreed between the Socialist Party of Catalonia (PSC) , the Republican Party of Catalonia (PSC), the Republican Left of Catalonia (ERC) and the Common party, is expected to be approved in February and will take effect in April. 

The agreement provides that the tourist tax applied to tourists in Catalan tourist accommodation establishments will double its value in most categories, and there will also be a surcharge which can go up to €4 per night or €8 per night, in the case of the city of Barcelona.

In the case of five - star hotels located in the Catalan capital, the rate will rise from €3.50 to €7 per person/night, while in the rest of the region the increase will be 100%, being applied gradually, that is, with a 50% increase coming into effects as early as April, 1, 2026 reaching €4.50 in the luxury category, rising to double by 1. April, 2027, when this amount should reach €6. 

As in hotels and other tourist accommodation, cruise passengers who are moored for less than 12 hours in Barcelona will also pay tourist tax, which will be €6 per person per night. 

In addition to this increase, there will be a municipal surcharge, since the agreement between the Catalan parties provides that municipalities can apply an additional municipal surcharge of up to €4 per night, which will be up to €8 in Barcelona. 

The municipal surcharge will, however, be discretionary and flexible, and may be adjusted by municipalities based on criteria such as the postal code, which will make it possible to differentiate the areas with the highest tourist flows, as well as to increase or decrease the value depending on the time of year to encourage tourism during the off – peak months.

The newspaper El País said that the approval of the tourist tax means that, in 2029, tourists staying in a five - star hotel in Barcelona will have to pay €15 per person per night, which also calculates the amount that a family of four will have to pay and which reaches €60 per night and €420 for a week’s stay. 

Of the funds from Catalonia’s tourist tax, 25% will revert to housing policies, while the remaining 75% will be directed to the Tourism Promotion Fund. 

However, the measure is causing controversy among the Catalan business and tourism sector, with HostelTur, renowned Spanish portal dedicated to deliver information linked to the travel & tourism sector citing the main regional business associations, which argue that this is an “improvised measure”, which only serves to rise money from the Catalan government and that it puts at risk the competitiveness of the destination. 

ConfeCat, Barcelona Hotel Association, Catalan Federation of Campsites, Federatur, Apartur, Fomento del Trabajo and Pimec Turismo are some regional business associations that have already show themselves against the increase in the tourist tax, even issuing a joint statement repudiating the measure.

The associations consider that the proposal only responds to the need for political support from the current government and not to a solid strategy for tourism, warning that the increase in the cost of accommodation could drive away local tourism and create serious territorial imbalances in areas such as the Pyrenees and the Ebro Delta, two areas which depend heavily on domestic and seasonal demand.

The Catalan tourism sector also laments the government’s lack of empathy and denounces the measure for ignoring commercial operations, contracts already finalized for the season and technical difficulties in adapting. 

The entrepreneurs demand that is independent economic study be carried out to assess the real impact of the tax on demand before implementing any tax changes, while demanding greater transparency and accountability mechanisms to ensure that the revenue collected will be strictly reinvested in improving the quality of tourism in the region. 

Key Details of the Increase: 

•    Barcelona’s Combined Charge: When combined with the regional tax, the Barcelona municipal tax for five – star hotels can reach €6.75, contributing to a total potentially hitting €15 per night for luxury stays by 2029. 
•    Catalonia (Outside Barcelona): A phased increase starts April 1, 2026, raising the regional tax for five - star hotels from €3 to €4.50 per night, with further adjustments planned for 2027. 
•    Implementation: The new rules were agreed upon, with some initial increases set for April 2026, though political disagreements have caused some delays. 

Why the Increase? 
•    Funding: The extra revenue supports local communities, housing for low – income residents, and infrastructure improvements.

 How it Works: 

•    You pay a regional tax and, if in Barcelona, an additional city surcharge. 
•    The total fee depends on your accommodation, such as hotel star rating, hostels holiday rentals and other lodging options. 

Last year, the entire region of Catalonia received 20 million international tourists, which corresponds to an increase of 1% compared to 2024 and this move could change the positive trajectory achieved by the Catalan community. 

Link 
https://www.publituris.pt/2026/01/15/catalunha-aumenta-taxa-turistica-a-partir-de-abril-e-valor-pode-chegar-aos-15e-por-pessoa-noite

Zhetysu, Kazakhstan | A Team of Archaeologists Uncovered Significant Gold Jewellery and Artefacts from Early Iron Age

A team of Archaeologists leading a research project in Kazakhstan’s Zhetysu Region (formerly Almaty Region), have recently uncovered significant  gold jewellery and artifacts from the Early Iron Age (around the 4th – 3rd centuries BCE), during excavations at the Dauylbai necropolis, a crucial site for understanding Central Asia antiquity, located at the foot of a ridge in the Dauylbay area within Karatal district, near Taldykorgan and the Saza Plateau, as reported by Kazakhstan’s official state news agency, Kazinform.

 Researchers uncovered various items from elite Saka - burials like fragments of gold jewellery, beads, earrings, bone buttons, bronze pins, buckles, various ceramic vessels, including a “varvorka”  a rare pendant decoration and gold plates used in the ritual and status costumes of the ancient inhabitants of the region. 

These finds, part of ongoing excavations, are revealing advanced craftmanship and rich cultural traditions highlighting intricate details about ancient Saka society, status, and artistic skills, with some discoveries already been transferred to local history museums, where restoration work has been completed. 

A museum’s curator underlined that the metal objects had been  cleaned of corrosion and mineral deposits, and the bone and ceramic items had been restored to almost their original appearance. Thanks to this, the exhibits were included in the museums’ new temporary exhibitions. 

Discovery's  Location: 

The Dauylbai necropolis is a very significant archaeological site in the Karatal district within Kazakhstan’s Zhetysu region, known for its rich finds from the Early Iron Age, including golden aritifacts. 

In the area of the necropolis were discovered paired burials, and unique burial structures, offering insights into ancient cultures like the Begazy - Dandybay, a late Bronze Age culture of mixed economy in the territory of central Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, centered at Saryarka region, with discoveries highlighting sophisticated crafmanship and trade networks. 

This complex burial ground features various tomb types, oval, round and rectangular stone fences as well as megalithic rock mausoleums. Primarily associated with the Early Iron Age, the necropolis contains structures from different eras, including Late Bronze linked to Andronov and Begazy - Dandybay cultures.

 Discovery's Significance: 

•    Advanced Craftmanship: The sophisitcated techniques used in the gold items demonstrate advanced metalworking skills. 
•    Cultural Insights: The Finds offer new details on Saka/Sarmatian social structure, gender roles, trade, and artistic traditions.
•    Rich Heritage: These discoveries connect modern audiences to the complex cultural heritage of ancient Kazakhstan. 

The Dauylbay area: 

The Dauylbay area apart its iconic necropolis remains one of least studied regions in Kazakhstan. According to archaeologists, there are over 190 sites in an area of approximately 100 square kilometres consisting in about 150 burial complexes, more than 20 camps and settlements, as well as 20 clusters of petroglyphs dating from the Bronze Age and other eras.  

Link 
https://tvbrics.com/en/news/archaeologists-in-kazakhstan-find-rare-gold-jewellery-and-artefacts-from-the-early-iron-age/

Uttarakhand, India | Unveiled a Plan for the Development of 12 New Ecotourism Sites

The Forest Department of the state of Uttarakhand located in northern India crossed by the Himalaya mountain tange, known for its stunning landscapes, towering peaks, a rich cultural and historical heritage and famous as a relevant Hindu pilgrimage’s destination, unveiled a plan for the development of 12 new ecotourism sites.  

The project consists in transforming forest rest houses into integrated nature centres with trails and attractions, focusing on sustainable development, promoting biodiversity through high - quality, low impact experiences, aiming to boost the state’ tourism and create employment with unique nature - based circuits.

Around these sites, infrastructure will be developed for hiking, wildlife observation and knowledge of the local culture, a move to elevate Uttarakhand state as a leading destination  for ecotourism and outdoor activities in the regional tourism landscape. 

The aim of the project is to unite nature attractions in integrated clusters. This will allow tourists to visit several points in a single trip and, at the same time, creating jobs for the local population. 

In the first stage of development, 12 territories in 7 districts have been selected including Almora, Dehradun, Nainital, Pauri, and Pithoragarh. 

According to the head of the ecotourism area, the Forestry Department will focus mainly on the modernization of existing infrastructure: trails, guest houses, and other complementary facilities. 
The project has already been discussed at a special meeting chaired by Uttarakhand’ chief secretary, Anand Bardhan and now will be submitted for approval to the state government as reported by News9.

Key Features of the Plan: 

•    Integrated Circuits: Developing linked tourist circuits rather than isolated spots for richer experiences. 
•    Upgraded Facilities: Converting basic forest rest houses into full ecotourism centres. 
•    Nature Trails: Creating dedicated walking, trekking, and nature exploration routes. 
•    Economic Growth: Generating local employment and alleviating poverty through tourism. 
•    Conservation Focus: Centred around flora and fauna conservation, promoting sustainable wilderness tourism. 
•    Educational Experiences: Offering insights into Uttarakhand’s natural and cultural heritage. 

The overall goal is to position Uttarakhand state as a leading destination in sustainable tourism by balancing environmental protection with economic development, utilizing its rich biodiversity and unique landscapes.

Link 
https://tvbrics.com/es/news/en-el-estado-indio-de-uttarakhand-se-crear-n-12-nuevos-destinos-de-ecoturismo/

Heraklion, Greece | The City’s Port and Airport Partner to Boost Cruise Tourism Growth

Heraklion, the vibrant capital and largest city of the island of Crete, known for blending ancient history with modern life, featuring Venetian fortifications, bustling urban sites like Lion Square, and being the gateway to the Minoan Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, making a central hub for exploring the island’s rich culture and sunny beaches is exxperiencing a partnership between Heraklion Port Authority (HPA) and Heraklion International Airport Nikos Kazantzakis (HER) to boost cruise tourism. 

The aim of this cooperation is part of a broader effort by creating a seamless, reliable homeport experience, focusing on better air connectivity, synchronized operations, and enhanced passenger experience from airport to ship, positioning Heraklion as a competitive Mediterranean hub for cruise lines through improved infrastructure and services, aligning with growth in homeporting and Mediterranean cruise demand.  

The issue was discussed during a recent meeting between the Chief Executive Officer of Heraklion Port Authority, Minas Papadakis and Chief Executive of Heraklion Airport, Nikos Anastasiou. The talks focused on how closer coordination between port and airport infrastructure can support lines’ operational requirements and long - term planning. 

According to the two organizations, air connectivity, operation reliability and infrastructure capacity are among the key factors influencing cruise companies when selecting homeport locations. In this context the port and the new international airport were discussed as complementary gateways that together can support homeport operations and facilitate passenger flows. 

In addition the meeting addressed the need for enhanced coordination at both strategic and operational levels, with the aim of improving efficiency and ensuring a smooth passenger journey from airport arrival to embarkation at the port. Improving the overall cruise passenger experience was identified as a central priority. 

The two administrations confirmed a shared strategic direction and agreed to pursue close and continuous cooperation, aligned with the evolving needs of the global cruise industry. 

Key Features of the Partnership: 

•    Integrated Transport Hub: Combining the airport and port to offer a unified, efficient gateway for cruise passengers. 
•    Strengthened Air Connectivity: Improving flight access to support cruise itineraries. 
•    Operational Coordination: Enhancing cooperation between port and airport at strategic and operational levels. 
•    Improved Passenger Experience: Streamlining the journey for passengers from arrival at the airport to embarkation at the port. 
•    Competitive Homeporting: Delivering a reliable and efficient product to attract more cruise lines to use Heraklion as a homeport. 
•    Sustainable Growth: Aligning with broader goals for sustainable tourism and environmental responsibility in the region. 

Why It Matters: 

•    Increased Homeporting: Heraklion aims to become a primary base for Eastern Mediterranean cruises, as seen by significant passenger numbers in 2024 and 2025. 
•    Economic Benefits: This initiative supports local economies y increasing cruise activity and attracting high – value tourism. 
•    Strategic Positioning: It solidifies Heraklion’s role as a key, modern cruise hub in the Mediterranean, attracting major international cruise operators. 

The initiative forms part of wider efforts to strengthen Heraklion’s role as an integrated transport hub and to support the development of cruise homeporting on a long - term basis. 

Link 
https://news.gtp.gr/2026/01/19/heraklion-port-and-airport-partner-to-boost-cruise-tourism-growth/