IHG Hotels & Resorts | Officially Opened a 529 - Room Kimpton Hotel in New York City, U.S.

IHG Hotels & Resorts, British multinational hospitality company based in Windsor, Berkshire, England, UK, has officially opened a 529 - room Kimpton hotel in New York City, as part of HIG’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio expansion.

The new IHG’s property is Kimpton Era Midtown New York located at 32 West 48^th Street right off Rockfeller Center in the heart of Manhattan with access to nearby landmarks and corporate offices.

The 33 - story newbuild hotel was designed by Extell Development Company, an American real estate developer of residential, commercial, retail, hospitality, and mixed use properties, founded in 1989 and based in New York, marking the first property under Extell’s direct management.

The hotel’s interior were designed by INC Architecture & Design, a firm specializing in the integration of design disciplines headquartered in New York with architecture design by SLCE Architects LLP, a multidisciplinary architectural practice based in London, England, UK, providing a full range of design and technical services with specialist expertise.

The property features 529 comfortable rooms including two suites and nine rooms with outdoor terraces. Select suites offer connecting “lock off” capabilities and pull - out couches. Each guest rooms features a window seat and city views. Rooms above the 15^th floor on the south side offer views of the Empire State Building and 1 World Trade, while select north - facing rooms provide sightlines to Rockfeller Center and Fifth Avenue.

The hotel includes a self-service check-in counter on the ground floor and a third-floor lobby with a manned reception desk.

Four dining and bar concepts at the hotel are operated by Apicii, a bespoke hospitality management and concept development company headquartered in New York that operates a collection of restaurants, bars, event spaces, private clubs and co - working venues throughout North America.

The Parlor, located in the main lobby, is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. and serves as an all - day gathering place, hosting the Kimpton social hour each evening. Bar Rocco, conceptualized by chef Rocco DiSpirito, is an Italian American brasserie open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with views of Rockfeller Plaza.

Amasa, a Latin steakhouse with a menu by chef Christopher Loeffl, is scheduled to open in March 2026. Bar Amasa, the restaurant’s street - level cantina, will serve Latin cocktails and Mexican tacos. Jade Rabbit, a rooftop Asian izakaya offering 360 - degree views of Manhattan, is scheduled to open in April 2026.

Amenities at tjhe hoyel include a 1.375 - square - foot gym open 24 hours, equipped with Peloton bikes, yoga mats, and cardio equipment.

The establishment will join the Kimpton by Hilton brand characterized by hotels known for their boutique style, focusing on unique design, often incorporating local art and culture to create a distinctive environment, and highlighted by personalized service, as well as an immersive atmosphere.

Room rates at Kimpton Era Midtown New York start at $450 per night.

Links

https://www.ihg.com/kimptonhotels/hotels/gb/en/new-york/nycdd/hoteldetail

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140352.html

Hyatt Hotels Corporation | Announced the Opening of a 170 - Room Andaz Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal

 Hyatt Hotels Corporation, American multinational hospitality company based in Chicago, Illinois, has announced the opening of a 170 - room Andaz hotel in Lisbon, vibrant capital and largest city of Portugal, located in the western point of the Iberian Peninsula on the northern shore of the Tagus River, one of the oldest cities in the world, known for its rich cultural and historical heritage, outstanding architecture,  scenic viewpoints, pastel - painted neighbourhoods, historic trams and soulful music echoing through old alleys, blending old - warm charm with a creative youthful energy.

The opening of Andaz Lisbon announced on March 11, 2026 marks the Andaz’ brand’s debut in Portugal and is part of Hyatt Hotels Corporation to expand its lifestyle brands and growth in the region.

The new hotel is located at Rua do Comércio 132, nestled in the Baixa District, the bustling, elegant and flat downtown heart of Lisbon, completely rebuilt on a grid system after the 1755 eartquake, renowned for its historic landmarks, neoclassical architecture, majestic squares, fine restaurants and vibrant shopping streets, steps from the lively Praça do  Comércio the Tagus River,  the wide pedestrian street, Rua Augusta and 7 minutes by foot from the bustling Praça do  Rossio square.

Andaz Lisbon provides 170 rooms and suites offer views of Lisbon cityscape, featuring cork accents, stone finishes, mosaic tiles, and malogany, equipped with Byredo bath products and integrated technology supports check – in and digital displays. 

Dining options at the hotel include Luzzi, a rooftop restaurant and terrace offering cuisine influenced by Portugal’s global culinary heritage, and the Andaz Lounge, which serves Portuguese classics inspired by Lisbon’s kiosks.

The property features a fitness centre with Technogym equipment, a spa with amenities focused on relaxation and renewal is planned to open soon, and in room - spa services will be available.

The hotel joins the Andaz portfolio, a luxury lifestyle brand that focuses on local culture, immersive experiences, and a “casual luxury vibe”. Key features include dynamic, locally inspired design and art, fresh locally sourced food and beverages, vibrant lounge spaces, and unique cultural programming.

Andaz brand aims to eliminate traditional barriers like check - in counters, creating fluid, welcoming spaces with personalized guest hosts and complimentary amenities, fostering a sense of authentic, local immersion for guests.

Links

https://newsroom.hyatt.com/2026-march-11-HyattannouncestheopeningofAndazLisbon

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140342.html

Kolwezi, The Democratic Republic of Congo | Plans to Transform its Airport in the Country’s Fourth Recognized International Gateway

The Democratic Republic of Congo is moving to upgrade Kolwezi Airport, located 6 km south of  Kolwezi, a major city in the southeastern part of the country and the capital of Lualaba District, known as a global hub for copper and cobalt, holding 100% of the world’s copper reserves and over a third of its cobalt stocks, planning to transform it in the country’s fourth recognized international gateway.

The airport mainly supports the local copper mining industry but the DRC Government plans to full its international status. If completed, Kolwezi Airport will become the country’ s fourth official entry point for overseas arrivals, opening the door to new travel routes and easier access to one of Central Africa’s most economically important regions.

Senior officials meeting in the capital of the country Kinshasa recently reviewed pre - financing proposals for essential air navigation equipment, marking progress in the certification process.

The upgrade targets compliance with ICAO standards and will require investment in navigation systems, safety infrastructure and operational procedures.

Key infrastructure improvements include the construction of a road interchange, a 2.5 km asphalt road to improve access, a 57 - metre bridge over the RN39, a 21 - metre bridge over the railway, alongside implementation of the ATALUS slope stabilization method to optimize construction.

Improved connectivity would enhance access to Lualaba Province and the Copperbelt business hub, reduce reliance on existing gateways and create new routing options, supporting business travel and unlocking tourism potential in southern DRC.

Link

https://atta.travel/resource/drc-advances-plans-to-make-kolwezi-airport-fourth-international-gateway.html

Itapúa, Paraguay | Establishing an Inter - Institutional Coordination to Strengthen Tourism Accessibility of the Department Destinations

The technical team of the National Tourism Secretariat (SENATUR), the official Paraguayan government organization responsible for establishing national tourism policy, guidelines, and promotion to foster sustainable, high – quality, and competitive tourism, and the Ministry of Public Works and communication held a meeting in order to analyse the need to tourist sites in Itapúa, located in the southeast of the Eastern Region of Paraguay,  one of the country’s most dynamic departments, known as the “Granary of Paraguay” for its contribution to the national economy. 

This inter - institutional arcticulation seeks to advance actions that contribute to strengthening infrastructure, facilitating access to destinations and promoting sustainable tourism in the department.

On the occasion the two entities gave special attention to the areas of influences of the Guaraní Jesuit Missions, the archaeological remains of towns created by the Jesuit Order administered by SENATUR and mentioning the relevance of the Mbya Guaraní Guaviramí community, recognized as a benchmark in the development of experiential experiences and cultural tourism.

 Key features of Collaborative Action: 

•    Integrated Planning: Combining efforts across government, municipal, and national levels (Ministry of Public Works and Culture, the National Tourism Secretariat) to ensure coordinated development of tourist sites. 
•    Infrastructure Improvement: Focusing on improving road access and necessary infrastructure to make locations more reachable and accessible. 
•    Cultural Heritage Preservation: Collaborating to protect and promote local heritage sites in Itapúa, ensuring they remain accessible, while maintaining their cultural value. 
•    Economic Empowerment: Linking tourism with community development, allowing residents to benefit directly through, for instance, showcasing local products and traditional practices.
•    Sustainable Development: Promoting tourism that is environmentally friendly and respectful of the local community’s culture. 
•    Strategic Coordination: Utilizing inter – agency cooperation to avoid duplication of efforts, ensuring a more efficient use of resources and better service delivery in the region.

The meeting was attended by SENATUR, the Director of Tourist Heritage, Maricarmen Couchonnal, the Director of Tourism Infrastructure, Gabriela Polandi, and the MOPC representatives of the Executing Unit of the Multimodal Logistic Project in Itapúa, led by Hugo Miranda. 

Link 
https://senatur.gov.py/noticias/articulacion-interinstitucional-para-fortalecer-la-accesibilidad-turistica-en-itapua/

Isla Catalina, the Dominican Republic | Inauguration of a New Tourist Pier and Starting the Development of a Beach Club on the Island

President Luis Abinader broke ground on a new tourist beach club and inaugurated the new Atelón tourist pier on Isla Catalina (Catalina Island), a small inhabited, protected tropical island 2.4 km off the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic near La Romana, famous for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant, shallow coral reefs, a premier destination for snorkeling,  diving, and relaxing boat excursions.

the new Atelón tourist pier situated on the northern shore of Isla Catalina, inaugurated in February 2026 is designed to enhance access to the island serves as a primary modern docking point for visitors.

Acting as the main arrival and departure point for tourist vessels, including day - trip boats from La Romana, the pier was built to facilitate a seamless transition from boats to the shore, connecting visitors to nearby beach bars, souvenir shops, and snorkeling areas.

Part of a broader development at improving tourism infrastructure (Playa Club works) in the Dominican Republic, this initiative highlights efforts by the Caribbean country to promote sustainable tourism, investment, and economic growth in the tourism sector.

Head of Dominican Port Authority (Apordom) Jean Luis Rodríguez, reported that 22 docks have been delivered in the country during the current administration and reaffirmed support for public - private partnerships.

Representatives from World2Meet, a global service provider in more than 175 countries, providing accommodation, transfers, excursions, tours and handling services, said the new pier and beach club will offer an exclusive, environmentally responsible experience, replicating practises already implemented on Saona Island, including waste recycling and the use of electric vehicles. 

Officials and business leaders underscored their commitment to strengthen La Romana and its territory as a competitive and sustainable tourism destination.

For the future beach club, an initiative, referred to as “Playa Club”, part of a broader effort to boost tourism infrastructure in La Romana area and on Isla Catalina, Tourism Minister David Collado emphasized that under Luis Abinader’s leadership, local investment in tourism has increased significantly, with the Dominican Republic now leading the development of new hotels in the region.

The Minister pointed to the planned growth of Miches in El Seibo Province as a model for diversification and noted that the country’s all - inclusive model remains strong, citing the recent arrival of the all - inclusive W Hotel from Marriott International and he also highlighted high - end investments, such as new luxury rooms at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas,  where top suites command premium rates and maintain high occupancy.

Link

https://dominicantoday.com/dr/tourism/2026/03/03/new-tourist-pier-and-beach-club-to-open-on-catalina-island/

Dubrovnik, Croatia | A New Fast Passenger Boat Line Will Connect the City to Mljet Island

A new Fast passenger boat line will connect Dubrovnik to Mljet Island, the southernmost and greenest of Croatia’s largest Adriatic islands, renowned for its unspoiled Mediterranean nature, with over one - third of its territory consisting in a National Park featuring Veliko and Malo Jexero, two unique saltwater lakes and a 12^th – century Benedictine monastery on St. Mary island.  

Starting this may, the new route is intended to make visiting Mljet Island significantly easier for tourists staying in Dubrovnik, offering them an easy day - trip option to one of the Mediterranean’s most pristine protected marine areas.

According to Mljet National Park, the new commercial service will begin operating on May 1, 2026 with daily sailings designed primarily for excursion visitor travelling from Dubrovnik.

The park’s director, Ivan Sršen said that the vessel is expected to depart Dubrovnik every morning at 10:30 a.m., with return departures from Mljet Island scheduled in the afternoon between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m.

The journey will take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes, while the high - capacity vessel will be able to carry more than 300 passengers.

Although the official shipping operator has yet to be publicly announced, the park’s director confirmed that all necessary permits have already been secured.

The new boat line is expected to strengthen tourism links between Dubrovnik and Mljet Island, making spontaneous day trips to the national park much more accessible for visitors.

Mljet is often described as one of of the most beautiful islands in Croatia, a tranquil destination defined by its pine forests, crystal - clear waters, saltwater lakes, unique Mediterranean landscapes,and the northwesters Mljet national park, attracting thousands of nature lovers every year.

 Alongside improved transport connections, Mljet National Park is also preparing a special program of outdoor activities around May Day (International Worker’s Day). The week leading up to May 1, will feature a variety of activities focused on active lifestyles and nature, including kayaking, hiking, stand - up paddleboarding and rock climbing.

The highlight of the program will be a major trail running race scheduled for the weekend around May Day, an event that has been attracting an increasing number of professional runners and recreational participants each year. Through events like these, Mljet National Park aims to promote the combination of sport and distance from Dubrovnik.

With a new fast boat connection and a growing calendar of outdoor activities, Mljet Island looks set to become an even more appealing getaway for visitors exploring sothern Croatia this spring and summer.

Link 

https://www.thedubrovniktimes.com/news/dubrovnik/item/19550-new-fast-boat-line-to-connect-dubrovnik-and-mljet-this-summer

Sonesta International Hotels Corporation | Announced the Opening of a 46 - Room Hotel in Tomball, Texas, U.S.

Sonesta International Hotels Corporation a Newton, Massachusetts - based hospitality company founded in 1937, the 8th - largest U.S. hotel chain, managing over 1.200 properties across various brands, has announced the opening of a 46 - room hotel in Tomball, a city in Harris County in the U.S. state of Texas, located 35 minutes northwest of Houston.

Tomball is a charming, historic city known for its “small - town Texas” feel, vibrant, walkable Old Town district, and extensive top - ranked school district (Tomball ISD), featuring popular annual festivals, a bustling Saturday farmers market, unique antique shopping, and a strong family - friendly, equestrian - friendly atmosphere.

The Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Tomball Grand Parkway is an economy hotel located at 9110 Grand Parkway near Spring/Woodland, 4.0 kilometres from downtown Tomball and the Tomball Museum, 10.2 km from Tomball Country Club  and about 48 kilometres northwest of Houston.

The hotel features 46 comfortable, spacious rooms with a flat - screen satellite TV, laundry facilities and free parking is offered on site.

The property is Sonesta’s first new build under the America’s Best Value Inn & Suites brand, with construction completed and the hotel opening in 7.5 months. The owners and operators of the Tomball Grand Parkway location also own another Americas Best Value Inn in the greater Houston area.

Guests at the Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Tomball Grand Parkway can earn or redeem points through the Sonesta Travel Pass loyalty program.

Links

https://newsroom.sonesta.com/brands/americas-best-value-inn/sonesta-announces-opening-of-americas-best-value-inn-suites-by-sonesta-in-tomball-tx/

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140213.html