Meliá Hotels International | Revealed its Future Luxury Meliá Collection Hotel in Estepona, Costa del Sol, Spain

Meliá Hotels International, hotel chain founded in 1956 and headquartered in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, hospitality company operates and manages a large portfolio of hotels and resorts worldwide makes progress with its expansion, this time revealing its future Luxury Meliá Collection hotel in Estepona, famous town and municipality in the comarca of the Costa del Sol in the province Malaga, part of the autonomous community of Andalusia in southern Spain. 

The Bahia Estepona is the property that will operate under the brand Meliá Collection from mid - 2026, following a renovation that will raise the standards of the establishments entering in a brand characterized to be a curated collection of independent hotels with endless charm and a distinct homely feel, revealing a new definition of experiential luxury travel through an expceptional selection of hotels that boast a singular cultural legacy and unique stories that enrich every stay.

The property will be the first of this luxury brand on the Andalusian coast, a region where there are two other projects underway with this upscale brand in Ronda, historical city in the interior of the province of Malaga, and in Cádiz, major city and capital of the Costa de la Luz, which will also open in 2026.

The hotel destinated to become an icon of the brand's holiday offer will boast spectacular views of Playa del Padrón, a beach at 1.4 kilomtres long with an average width of 30 metres, taking its name from the Rio Padrón, a river which flows next the beach located 2.0 kilometres from the heart of Esstepona, after the Playa de la Rada.

 The property will feature 134 rooms and suites providing an innovative gastronomic proposal, a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, garden areas, an outdoor pool bar and lobby bar.

As is typical concerning the Meliá Collection brand, the property will have a carefully curated cultural program that will elevate the luxury experience of guests, connecting them with the the destination in this case with the sunny Costa del Sol, a land that offers a diverse experience with its beautiful beaches, historical sites, cultural attractions, and a vibrant nighlife.

The President and CEO of Meliá Hotels International, Gabriel Escarrer Jaume, said that continuing to grow in the best Spanish destinations is one of the priorities of the company. 

With the signing of the Meliá Collection hotel on the Costa del Sol, the group is strengthening its presence in Andalusia, one of the country's favourite destinations of Meliá Hotels International with its commitment to quality tourism that is a consolidated reality of the chain.

Next to to this new project in Estepona, Meliá Hotels International already has 30 hotels open or in the process of opening in the community of Andalusia and in the province of Malaga alon, there are 16 units managed by the group.

The opening at the end of the year of the ME Malaga hotel in the centre of capital of the Costa del Sol and the repositioning of one of its establishments in Marbella, which will become the ME Marbella in the coming months will enhance and conolidate further more ther presence of Meliá Hotels International in a key destination as Andaluia.

Link - https://www.hosteltur.com/169112_the-melia-collection-debutara-en-la-costa-del-sol-en-2026.html

IHCL - The Indian Hotels Company | Launched its Newest Exclusive Resort & Spa in Udaipur, India

IHCL, the Indian Hotels Company, renowned hospitality group founded in 1902, part of Tata Group and headquartered in Mumbai, a firm with a large portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury establishments under various brands has officially launched its newest resort & Spa in Udaipur, India ; the Tree of Life - Amara Resort & Spa.

The property is located a short drive form Udaipur's vibrant city, formerly the capital of the Mewar Kingdom in the wester Indian state of Rajashtan, famous for its beautiful palaces, pristine lakes surrouned ny imposing mountains, rooms and tiger gardens.

The resort is a sanctuary of luxury perched above a tranquil lake and enveloped by verdant landscapes is nestled in the heart of the majestic Aravallis, a mountain range in Northern - Western India, estimated to be around 670 million years old, predates the the Himalayan Range making it one fo the oldest mountain ranges on earth.

This stylish accommodation enters into the brand Tree Life Resorts & Hotels where each establishment offers unique and memorable experiences, such as Sunset and Sunrise Calls, Village Tours and Tree Life Journeys among others.

All the hotels and resorts part of the brand are designed and curated to offer great opportunities to gain insights into rural life and traditions, reconnect with nature, and enhance the guest experience with culinary and artistic engagements, embodying their commitment to crafting unique journeys that merge exclusivity with authenticity.

This exclusive resort, a serene retreat away from the bustling city life offers a world of elegance, privacy impeccable service is a haven for all those who are seeking a rejuvenating getaway, a romantic escape but also a prominent venue for corporate gatherings and celebrations.

The resort designed to elevate a stay to an extraordinary experience boasts 33 comfortable, spacious, expansive villas with private infinity pools, balconies providing panoramic views of the nearest mountains and the beautiful Vikrani Lake.

At Tree of Life -  Amara Resort & Spa guests can experience great of dining options, like Dawn, the resort's signature dining venue offering a carefully crafted menu featuring authentic and traditional Rajashtani delicacies and global flavours.

Other amenities include Dusk, a treehouse - inspired lounge offering handcrafted cocktails and evening entertainment and the resort's holistic spa complex providing various treatments for an indulgent experience.

The Executive Vice President of Hotel Openings & New Business at IHCL, Ms. Deepika Rao stated that IHCL has always been a market leader in changing hospitality formats, creating innovative destinations, and building brands that cater to the evolving preferences of travellers.

Link - https://treeofliferesorts.com/hideaways-resorts/the-tree-of-life-amara-resort-spa-udaipur/

Autograph Collection | Opened its first Hotel in the UNESCO World Heritage City of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Autograph Collection, an American group of independent upper - upscale to luxury hotels founded in 2010 and headquartered in Washington, D.C. within the Marriott International portfolio, properties that are independently owned and operated under the Autograph Collection name opened its first hotel in the UNESCO World Heritage City of San Miguel de Allende.

The new entry is the Cleviá San Miguel de Allende, Autograph Collection, the first Marriott Bonvoy located in San Miguel de Allende iconic Mexican city situated in the far eastern part of the state of Guanajuato in the territory of Baijo region.

This incorporation represents a significant expansion for Autograph Collection, a brand known for its over 300 independent hotels worldwide in a premier destination, well known for its unique charm and appeal attracting a multitude of national and international visitors all year round.

San Miguel de Allende recognized as the “Best Small City in the World” by Condé Nast Traveler, famed, luxury and lifestyle travel magazine published by Condé Nast, organization based in New York, U.S. is a beautiful colonial – era centre known for its stunning architecture, picturesque cobblestone streets, thriving art scene, cultural festivals and global food scene, designed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 8th July 2008, for its well - preserved 16th century Spanish Colonial Baroque architecture and its cultural significance.

The property is nestled in the city’s heart at Josefina Orozco, 6, a short distance from the Church of St. Michael the Archangel, Las Monjas Temple and Allende’s Institute, 1.9 kilometres from the Historic Museum boasting a very strategic location offering a very easy access to the most important local attractions making it an ideal accommodation for both, leisure and business travellers.

The hotel stands as a beacon of luxury and culture, its design combines tradition and modernity integrating local materials and products to preserve the city’s essence and the architecture is a celebration to the contemporary Mexico, highlighted in two event halls halls named after renowned architects and ingineers such as Luis Barragan and Ricardo Legorreta.

Cleviá San Miguel de Allende, Autograph Collection features 74 comfortable and welcoming room and 42 residences highlighted by a central courtyard featuring an infinity pool and the hotel boasts an art space dedicated to exhibit the works of local artists, reinforcing its commitment to the local community.

Ayoli si the hotel’ s signature restaurant offering a great culinary experience showcasing the best of Mexico with its richj gastronomic culture under the guidance of renowned Chef Eduardo Osuna, providing an innovative cuisine with Mexican dishes combined with a unique cosmopolitan touch.

The property centers its story around the local legend of a key that opens all doors in San Miguel de Allende. Said to hold special powers, the key and whoever possesses it can unlock all the magic that this enchanted Mexican centee has to offer.

This story is reflected in the hotel’s Garden of Olives where guests can engrave a brass key and hang it on the garden tree, symbolising their connection to San Miguel de Allende.

The President of Marriott International’s Caribbean and Latin America, Brian King expressed his enthusiasm about the new property, and he emphasized aligning the city’s vibrant culture and warm hospitality with Autograph Collection’s brand value. 

Link - https://www.marriott.com/en-gb/hotels/bjxak-clevia-san-miguel-de-allende-autograph-collectionoverview/

Tampa Bay, Florida, U.S. | Unprecedented Revenue in the Hospitality Sector with a Vigorous Start in 2025

Tampa Bay, a large natural harbour and shallow estuary connected to the Gulf of Mexico on the west - central coast of Florida, U.S., comprising other five bays, highlighted by a vibrant culture, a mild climate with more than 240 sunny days per year, an ideal destination for several outdoor activities possible yea -  round, boasting severla attractions and a delicious cuisine is experiencing unprecedented revenue in the hospitality sector with a vigorous start in 2025.

 A main protagonist of this success in the area is Hillsborough County, part of the Tampa - St. Petersburg - Clearwater Metropolitan Statistical Area, a land well known for its natural beauty, rich history in all its areas such as Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plan City and Valrico among others offering a wide range of educational and recreational opportunities to residents and visitors alike.

With a revenue set a record in January with an 18% increase equivalent to $123.728.598 versus last year’s $104.000.000 in the same month and surpassing the January 2023 high by more than $17.0 million, the area is consolidating itself as a notable protagonist for high incoming tourism performances in the state of Florida.

Revenue in the first month of the year is driven by hotel occupancy above 80% and the efforts of nearly 60.000 Hillsborough County hospitality professionals, making the the second month with this unprecedented revenue, compared to several years ago.

In Statistical data it is also the third time in this county of Florida that the monthly taxable income of hotels exceeds $120 million just like March 2023, recording $129.074.269 and February 2024 registering $121.501.863.

Visitor Tampa Bay President and CEO, Santiago C. Corrado said that January’s numbers are also the fourth consecutive month of revenue in excess of $100 million, representing a strong level of performances dating back the last October.

This is the third time in history that Hillsborough Country has recorded four consecutive months of $100 million in hotel revenue and it is the first time that it has been this stretch of months, from October to January.

Revenue have reached new heights in each of the months, and occupancy rates and other key financial figures have also performed well. 

Visitor Tampa Bay President added that the momentum is a powerful thing, and Hillsborough County’s tourism sector has it right now, but this does not happen on its own nor is it generated by an invisible force.

This success  is the result of a joint work of county officials, county residents, hoteliers, restaurateurs, attraction owners and entrepreneur who make up the team more than 900 members.

All them together, they seize opportunities and overcome challenges to keep Tampa Bay at the top of the minds of business and leisure travellers, generating nearly $9 billion in economic impact for the community.

 Link -https://infoturlatam.com/hillsborough-en-tampa-registra-incremento-en-movimiento-hotelero/

Rome, Italy | Inaugurated 5G Connection in 9 Jubilee Stations of the City’s Metro Along Line A

Rome, the capital and largest city of Italy, inaugurated 5G connection in 9 jubilee stations of the city’s Metro along the line A , from Vittorio Enamuele station located beneath the square Piazza Vittorio Emanuele which gives its name in the Esquilino neighborhood, the 15th rione or administrative division of Rome to Cipro, metro station located in Via Cipro near Piazzale degli Eroi square,in the Trionfale neighborhood, the 14th Roman district extends to the north - west of the Vatican City passing through Termini, Repubblica, Barberini, Spagna, Flaminio, Lepanto and Ottaviano metro stations.

 Thanks to the "Roma 5G" project led by Smart City Roma S.p. A. the company controlled by INWIT, Infrastructure Wireless Italiane S.p.A., public company headquartered in Milan which operates in the wireless network infrastructure sector in collaboration with Roma Capitale, the special territorial body endowed with particular autonomy, which administers the municipal territory of the city of Rome,  citizens, tourists and pilgrims arriving in the Eternal City on the occasion of the jubilee can take the advantage of the fast, reliable mobile connections in 4G and 5G of all mobile operators in the 9 jubilee stations of the metro A boasting 7.0 kilometres line for a better user experience for smartphones, tablets and PCs.

The operators' 4G and 5G signal is now available both inside the individual stations and on the move in the tunnels that connect them, thanks to the multi -voperator digital infrastructure indoor DAS, Distributed Antenna System locations.

This is the first section of a larger project that plans to bring by 2026, 5G with DAS technology to all stations of metro A, B, B1 and C lines, for a total of 1.170 remote units between 4G and 5G, over 3.000 antennas and more than 250 kilometres of new optical fiber, covering a total distance of 61.0 kilometres.

Voice and data traffic in Rome's subway is managed by the new INWIT/Smart City Roma Radio Equipment Room, BTS hotel, in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele station one of the largest and most advanced in Europe.

The Room is a control and coordination point for telecommunications equiplent and the Roma 5G plan also provides for the enabling of 5G connectivity by telecommunications operators in all the main nerve points of Rome and to activate a wide portfolio of digital services provided by Roma Capitale in 100 squares, 98 neighboring streets and in 7 public buildings of the Municipality of Rome, including the Campidoglio, through the installation of small cells according to the needs of the operators.

The service also provides for the installation of Wi - Fi in 100 squares, 2.000 cameras and about 1.800 IoT sensors.

The main goal of this large operation is to offer the best connectivity and security to 3 million residents and over 15 million tourists, who will grow further in this jubilee year.

 Link - https://www.rainews.it/tgr/lazio/articoli/2025/04/da-oggi-connessione-5-g-in-9-stazioni-della-metro-a-di-roma-ce3b8a6c-4ae9-458e-8105-1931a727e7ac.html

Montevideo, Uruguay | Awarded as Best Smart Tourist Destination in Ibero - America

Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, situated on the southern coast of the Atlantic of the country facing a wide bay and on the northestern Bank of the Rio de la Plata River, a very lively city  with a unique personality, boasting a rich cultural heritage, highlighted by a vibrant art scene, cafe culture, fine restaurants, a centre that features historic European architecture and is fact considered one of the cities with most art deco influence next to stunning neoclassical buildings as its well - preserved “Ciudad Vieja” Old City, for the second consecutive year was awarded as Best Smart Tourist Destination in Ibero - America.

The Uruguayan capital once again this prestigious distinction that was made within the framework of the International Fair of Smart Tourist Destinations which took place in Bonito, Brazil and the delivery of this relevant awar was attended by Undersecretary of Tourism, Ana Caram, the Director of Tourism of Montevideo, Karina Fortete and the Official of Tourism Division, Nicolás Raffo.

This outstanding recognition highlights the teamwork and undertaking the challenge of being a DTI and today Montevideo is consolidating itself as an excellent point of reference in the country and in the region, a model and a prominent collaborator to help other destinations in Uruguay, and in addition, the Uruguayan capital was also awarded in the Accessibilty category.

In 2023 the city began a transformation process with the aim of obtaining this recognition, winning in 2024 and this year at the Ibero - American DTI Awards came the second success which is not a final stage but represents a new step for a consolidation continuing to work for sustainable, innovative, and inclusive solutions across various areas and segments.

The awards are granted by the Ibero - American Network of Smart Tourist Destinations, which aims to reward tourist destinations, the private sector and the third sector, generating new spaces to share and recognize good practices that make destinations smart and in addition, to continue showing the achievements of public, private and mixed institutions in the areas linked to the axes of the DTI model.

Link -  https://dailyweb.com.ar/noticias/val/50548/montevideo-ganadora-del-premio-iberoamericano-al-destino-turistico-inteligente-del-ano.html

Bali, Indonesia | Targeting 17.0 Million Tourist Arrivals This Year Supported by the Launch of an Event Calendar as a Pivotal Strategy

Bali, a province of Indonesia and the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands, the most popular destination in the Indonesian archipelago, an idyllic land in the Pacific Ocean, highlighted by pristine beaches with a stunning fusion of rich cultural heritage, a spectacular natural beauty, welcoming people and a wide array of experiences is targeting 17 million tourist arrivals this year supported by the launch of an event calendar as a pivotal strategy to attract more tourists.

Bali’s tourism sector shows a positive otlook for 2025 with a focus on sustainable and cultural tourism, building on the strong recovery from the pandemic and high visitor numbers in 2024 which was a record - breaking year for Bali, with over 6.3 million international travellers visiting the island.

For 2025 Bali is targeting 17.0 million arrivals including 6.5 million international visitors with the aim to overpass those 6.3 arrivals recorded last year.

According to the statements of the head of the provincial Tourism Bureau Tjok Bagus Pemayun the target to welcome 6.5 international visitors is realistic, considering that the number of international arrivals in the Indonesian province reached around 6.3 million last year, meanwhile the target for domestic tourist visits is up to 10.5 million.

The Asiatic island to attract more tourists through Bali Tourism Office had developed and launched an Event Calendar, featuring 54 activities, including 45 cultural events among them as top highlights, Ubud Food Festival in April, Soundrenaline Festival in April, Bali Arts Festival in June - July, Bali International Air Show in September and Kut Karnival in October, relevant events part of a  pivotal strategy which aims to promote the country as a global destination beyond the usual sea, sun and beaches. 

In addition a challenge for 2025 is to manage the problem affecting international arrivals, namely congestion, litter and land – use conversion.

Provincial authorities will also drive enforcement measures while acting as regulators and facilitators, waiting for the assistance of tourism actors in this field.

Link -https://en.vietnamplus.vn/indonesias-bali-targets-17-million-tourist-arrivals-in-2025-post308860.vnp