Zimbabwe | NetOne and ZTA Forge a Strategic Digital Partnership to Modernize the Country’s Tourism Sector

NetOne, a prominent cellular network operator in Zimbabwe, recognized as the first GSM ( Global System for Mobile Communications) in the country, a state - owned enterprise, operating as a subsidiary of the Post and Telecommunications Corporation (PTC), has formalized a strategic digital partnership with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) to modernize the country’s tourism sector.  

The collaboration was established at a ceremony held in Acturus, Harare, marking a significant significant step towards digitising the sector. 

The two entities have partnered to digitize Zimbabwe’s tourism sector, replacing paper-based systems with digital regulatory tools. Key features include handing over critical computer equipment, improving connectivity in tourism areas, modernising the authority’s inspectorate functions, deploying digital inspection systems, and enhancing data-driven service delivery to modernize operations and boost competitiveness.

Additional interventions include expanded network coverage across key tourism corridors, WiFi rollouts at strategic visitor locations, and the intgroduction of eTourism SIM solutions for international travellers. 

Key Features of the NetOne - ZTA Partnership:

 •    Digitalization of the Tourism Inspectorate: Replacing outdated, paper - based regulatory functions with digital, electronic systems. 
•    ICT Equipment Handover: NetOne provided critical computer hardware to the ZTA to facilitate this transition. 
•    Enhanced Connectivity: The partnership focuses on improving network coverage across key tourism destinations and remote areas, facilitating better connectivity for tourists.
•    Modernising Operations: Streamlining ZTA processes through digital platforms to improve Efficiency and service delivery. 
•    AI - Enabled Ecosystem: The initiative is framed as part of a move towards a smarter, AI - enabled government ecosystem, aligning with national development priorities. 
•    Support for Tourism Growth: The partnership aims to strengthen Zimbabwe’s position as a competitive global tourism destination by bolstering tourism and ICT integration. 

Government representatives underscored the broader significance of the initiative, with permanent secretary Dr Beaulah Chirume linking it to Zimbabwe’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and calling on stakeholders to explore what AI - enabled tourism could deliver in practice.  

Tourism already contributes in excess of 15% to Zimbabwe GDP, and Ministry of Tourism representative Mrs Tarirai Musonza noted the partnership arrives ar a pivotal moment in the country’s push towards a fully digitalised tourism ecosystem.  

The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority will deploy the resources to support facility and licensing across all provinces, strengthen provincial offices in line with the devolution agenda, and improve operational efficiency, with ZTA CEO Dr George Manyaya credited for moving swifty to advance the initiative.

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/netone-and-zta-forge-digital-partnership-to-modernise-zimbabwe-s-tourism-sector.html

China | Expanded its UNESCO Global Geoparks Network with Two New Additions

China has expanded its UNESCO Global Geoparks network to 51, according to the National Forestry and Prairies Administration, the highest in the world,  by adding Changshan Geopark in Zhejiang, a province in Eastern China and Mount Siguniang Geopark located in the southwestern province of Sichuan in April 2026.

At the 224th UNESCO Exectutive Board session, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially designated these two new Chinese geoparks for their significant geological history, including rich fossils and unique mountain landscapes, highlighting the country’s diversity and strengthen its network for the conservation and study of natural heritage.

Key Geological and Scenic Features of he two Geoparks:

Changshan Geopark, Zhejiang Province: This Geopark covers 1.043.1 square kilometres, featuring a continuous stratigraphic record spanning nearly a billion years from the Neoproterozoic to Cenozoic eras and containing China’s first “Golden Spike (Global Boundary Stratotype Section and Point) in the Huangnitang section, a crucial reference point for stratigraphic boundaries, and rich Ordovician fossils including graptolites, conodonts, and trilobites.

Considered a critical site for studying geological history in East Asia for its well - preserved stratigraphic profiles from the Cambrian 0 Ordovician period, the Geopark is highlighted by an early - karst formation, combined with dramatic granite peaks and stone forests like those in the Qingshi and Sampu Mountain areas.

The scenic Changshan river is the main water system in the park, connecting various geological nodes and the geopark offers stunning spots like Jiuzhang Cliff and Wangfu Reef, showcasing structural relics.The area also includes the Changshan National Geological Museum in the city of Quzhou displaying various findings.

Mount Siguniang Geopark, Sichuan Province: This geopark known as the “Eastern Alps” and “Sacred Mountain in the East” spans 2.764.01 square kilometres, featuring complex geological formations, flysch deposits, and steep granite peaks, including 6.250 metre Yaomei Peak, deep valleys, glaciers and 36 biodiversity hotspots.

Located in a critical transition zone, the park is characterized by geological wonders like the Songpan - Garzê accretionary orogenic wedge and “Xikang type” folds, showcasing the collision of tectonic plates and the uplift of the Qinghai - Tibet Plateau, and contains 60 geological sites, including prominents peaks and Quaternary glacial renmants.

Know for its accessibility by shuttle bus the geopark includes in its territory the Haizi Valley, famed for its high meadowns and alpine lakes (haizi) and the Changping Valley, a popular destination for hiking, and horseback riding at the foot of majestic peaks.

The geopark is also a centre for Jiarong Tibetan culture (traditional clothing, dances) and hosts activities like ice climbing festivals and international running races.

With these two new additions, China currently has 51 UNESCO Global Geoparks distributed in 24 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/china-ampl-a-su-red-de-geoparques-de-la-unesco-con-dos-nuevas-incorporaciones/

Minor Hotels | To Open its First Colbert Collection Hotel in London, England, UK

 Minor Hotels , an international operator, investor and owner in the hospitality industry founded in 1978 and based in Bangkok, Thailand, will open in the United Kingdom its first Colbert Collection, located in London, the capital and largest city of England and Great Britain.

Scheduled to open in Q4 this year The five - star WestDill Mayfair Hotel London, Colbert Collection  is the first property under the Colbert Collection brand in the UK  The property is owned by the Royal Group of Companies, a prominent Singapore - based property investment and development firm founded in 1947, foxuses on premium hospitality, commercial, and residential assets.

This project marks the Singaporean group’s first hotel venture in Europe, a company that boast a large portfolio includes hotels in Asia and the Pacific region, as well as shopping malls, offices, industrial, and residential properties. 

The building hosting the hotel, formerly the NatWest Bank and offices was originally designed in 1922 - 23 by Sir William Curtis Green, the structure is now Grade II listed and is being converted into a hotel.

The hotel is located at the corner of Piccadilly and Albermarle Street in London’s Mayfair district, a historic street dating back to the 1690s, renowned as the site of London’s first one - way street and well known for the presenbce of the prestigious Brown’s hotel. Today it is a hub for galleries, fine dining and high - end luxury shopping, featuring brands like Cartier, Aquazzurra and the Royal Institution.

The very convenient and strategic hotel’s location provides access to several London attractions including Bond Street, Buckingham Palace, Green Park, Hyde Park, Knightsbridge, Mayfair, Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus. and London’s West End and theatre district are nearby along with various trendy restaurants, and nightlife venues.

The property is a short walk from Green Park tube station, which offers access to Heathrow Airport, ans is also close to Victoria Srtation.

The WestDill Mayfair Hotel London, Colbert Collection  will feature 50 comfortable rooms and suites across six flooes, along with a restaurant and bar.

The hotel joins the Colbert Collection, a new premium “soft brand” by Minor Hotels launched in 2026, featuring independent, unique, luxury hotels allowing them to join a global  network while retaining their individual identities.

The brand is built on “the art of gathering”, “the art of place,” and “the art of taste,”emphasizing social connection, local heritage, and curated high - end dining experiences.

Minor Hotels currently owns another hotel in the the UK, the nhow London and also The Wolseley Hospitality Group, which operates restaurants in the country, including The Wolseley, The Delaunay, Colbert, and Zedel.

Link

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140979.html

Hyatt Hotels Corporation | Portfolio Expansion of its Hyatt Studios Brand with the Opening of a New Property in Jacksonville, Florida, U.S.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, American multinational hospitality company besed in Chicago, Illinois has expanded its Hyatt Studios Brand portfolio with the opening of a new property in Jacksonville,  Jacksonville, vibrant city in the U.S. state of Florida, located on the Atlantic coast, a popular vacation spot since the 1800s, well known for its 35.5 kilometres of beaches, extensive park system, world - class fishing, historic neighbourhoods, family adventures, relevant museums, eclectic street arts scene, creative coastal cuisine, and delicious craft beers.

Hyatt Studios Jacksonville / St. Johns Town Center opening marks the latest addition to the Hyatt Studio Brand and expands the presence of Hyatt Hotels Corporation in a key market in the United States like Florida.

The property is owned by  3 H Group, Inc., a prominent developer of hotels, retail, residential real estate and office space, headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and managed by LBA Hospitality, one of the leading hotel management, development, and consulting companies in the US, a group headquartered in Dothan, Alabama, specialized n the extended - stay segment.

The property is located at Gate Parkway and VLG Xing Drive in the Southpoint - Butler district of Jacksonsville, with access to I - 295 and SR - 202 (J. Turner Buther Boulevard), near major corporate ofices, medical facilities, shopping, dining, Jacksonville’s beaches, and the University of North Florida.

EventBank Field, Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, and Veteran Memorial Wall are 17 km away, Theatre Jacksonville and TIAA Bank Field are 18 km from the property, and Jacksonville International Airport is 38 km away.

Hyatt Studios Jacksonville / St. Johns Town Center features studio apartment - style suites with kitchens, complimentary Grab’n’ Go Breakfast, a 24/7 market, free Wi-Fi throughout the establishment,  a 24/7 fitness studio, approximately 600 square feet of meeting space, an outdoor patio with a fire pit and grill, self - service guest laundry, electric vehicle charging area and free - on - site private parking is provided. 

This is the third Hyatt Studios location developed by 3H Group, Inc., and operated by LBA Hospitality, following Hyatt Studios Huntsville and Hyatt Studios Mobile Tillmans Corner.

Links

https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-studios/en-US/jaxst-hyatt-studios-jacksonville-st-johns-town-center

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140946.html

Radisson Hotel Group | Announced the Opening of a 171 - Room Radisson Blu Hotel in Almaty, Kazakhstan

Radisson Hotel Group, a multinational hospitality company headquartered in Brussels, Belgium  has announced the opening of a 171 - room Radisson Blu Hotel in Almaty, the former capital and largest city of Kazakhstan.

Almaty set in the foothills of the Trans - Ili Alatau Mountains, in southern Kazakhstan near the border with Kyrgyzstan, is a metropolis often regarded as the nation’s cultural and financial heart, known as the “Apple City” and  the “Southern Capital”, featuring a blend of Soviet - era architecture, vibrant green spaces a stunning backdrop of the Tian Shan Mountains, and also highlighted by the wooden Ascension Cathedral, Big Almaty Lake, the scenic Kok Tobe Hill, and a rich, diverse culinary scene.

The Radisson Blu Hotel, Almaty Airport is located at Mailin Street 79B, 2.6 kilometres from Almaty International Airpor that recorded 12.5 million passengers in 2025, positioned a 25 - minute drive from downtown Almaty,  along the main route connecting the airport terminal to the city centre.

The property is positioned to serve business travellers, airline crews, government delegations and corporate guests and operates under a ffranchise agreement with NS7 LLP. 

Interior design reflect Radisson Blu’s Scandinavian - inspired aesthetic and the property features 171 comfortable rooms with a range of accommodations options, including junior suites, a presidential suite with panoramic views, and accessible rooms.

Dining options at the hotel include Mezzanine Restaurant, an all - day dining venue: Lobby Lounge & Bar; and F7 Skybar & Lounge, a rooftop restaurant with a terrace.

Amenities at he Radisson Blu Hotel, Almaty Airport include an indoor pool, a fitness centre, the SPA at Radisson, which covers 490 square metres, a dedicated cabin crew lounge, 285 metres of meeting space, a game room for children, and an on - site beauty salon.

The establishment joins the Radisson Blu brand rooted in Scandinavian design principles, blending an iconic, award - winning contemporary architecture with minimalist aesthetic. 

The brand includes upper upscale accommodations and a focus on modern amenities, emphasizing a unique dining experience, multipurpose workspaces and wellness facilities where guests can expect stylish spaces with an emphasis on comfort and a sense of belonging. Radisson Blu is also known for a 100% Guest Satisfaction Guarantee in Africa, Europe, and in the Middle East.

The Radisson Blu Hotel, Almaty Airport, is the third Radisson Hotel Group property in the city, following the launch of Sadu Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals, in 2025, and the signing of Radisson Hotel & Residences Almaty.

Links

https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-almaty-airport

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140952.html

Mohan, India | A Team of Scientists Discovered Rare 4, 5 million - Year - Old Freshwater Fish Fossils

A team of scientists from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WHG) have discovered rare 4,5 million year old (Pilocene) freshwater fish fossils in the Siwalik foothill near Mohand, a scenic forest area in India’s Uttarakhand state, within the Haridwar district and near Dehradun, a popular destination for eco - tourism, wildlife trekking, and nature stays in proximity of Rajaji National Park.

These fossils include three species such as: gobies, gouramis and snakeheads, found along with otoliths that allow their evolution to be studied. 

The discovery demonstrates that the Shivalik Valley boasted a calm, vegetaded freshwater habitat , marking the first such Pilocene record in the region, revealing ancient aquatic ecosystems and changes understanding of prehistoric biodiversity in northern India, challenging the idea that the land was dominated solely by terrestrial fauna.

Key Features of the Discovery:

·       Fossil Type: The discovery consists of fish otoliths (hard calcium carbonate ear structures) extracted from upper Siwalik sediments.

·       Identified Species: The taxa include Gobiidae indet, Trichogaster fasciata (dwarf gourami and Channa sp. (snakehead).

·       Global Significance: The T. fasciata (dwarf gourami) finding represents only the second known fossil record of the Osphoronemidae family globally.

·       Palaeoenvironment: The fish types suggest that the Pilocene Siwalik region was characterized by stable, calm water bodies surrounded by dense vegetation.

·       Significance for Research: While the Siwaliks are known for terrestrial ffossils, this find helps fill a critical gap in knowledge about South Asia’s past aquatic ecosystems.

The discovery highlights that the region, now known for the Himalayas, was a robust freshwater habitat millions of years go.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/descubren-f-siles-de-peces-de-agua-dulce-de-4-5-millones-de-a-os-en-el-norte-de-la-india/

Hai Phong, Vietnam | Actively Promoting an Internationalization Strategy in Basic Education

Hai Phong , known as Vietnam’s  “City of Flame Flowers” and its third - largest metropolis, a bustling northern port city blending French colonial architecture with industrial development and rich coastal scenery, seriving as a key cultural hub, featuring the historic Du Hang Pagoda, vibrant street life, and nearby Cat Ba island is actively promoting an internationalization strategy in basic education.

According to the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) this initiative piloting subjects such as foreign languages, artificial intelligence, and international competitions, is part of Vietnam’s national education reform.

Mathematics, science and chemistry taught in English languages in primary and secondary schools of Hai Phong are already frequent while Chinese and Russian are incorporated into elective system with the aim of strengthening students’ global integration capacity.

With this initiative Hai Phong seeks to maintain its leading position in educational quality at the national level, while ensuring that its academic outcomes are aligned with international standards, especially in key areas such as artificial intelligence, technology, and language learning.

Deputy Director of Hai Phong Education and Training Department Do Duy Hung pointed out that according to the national curriculum, students in grades 2 to 12 must take at least one foreign language. In addition to English, the learning of Chinese and Russian is actively promoted as optional subjects.

The move already achieved brilliant results, as An Dong Primary School, during the 2024 - 2025 school year, students won 148 national awards in international mathematics competitions. At the same time, the school has improved its infrastructure by incorporating “smart classrooms” and AI - assisted teaching tools to optimize educational effectiveness.

According to Vietnamese educator sector officials, local schools prioritize the training of outstanding talents and encourage the participation of students in international academic competitions to forge a new talented generation able to be competitive and successful globally.

Link 

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/ciudad-vietnamita-de-hai-phong-impulsa-la-internacionalizaci-n-de-la-educaci-n-b-sica-se-centra-en-l/