Mashhad, Iran | Officially Nominated as Candidate to Become the OIC Tourism Capital for 2030

The historic city of Mashhad has been nominated by Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, tourism, and Hadicrafts as its its candidate to become the  Tourism Capital of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for 2030. The nomination aims to boost Iran’s international tourism standing and promote globally one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the Muslim world. 

The city enters international competition as authorities prepare a major tourism and infrastructure development strategy following a series of technical evaluations and reviews.

This initiative is expected to strengthen the country’s global tourism profile and accelerate investment in infrastructure, hospitality, and cultural projects in eastern Iran.

Iran authorities selected Mashhad after evaluating several destinations across the country. The city was chosen for its extensive tourism infrastructure, strong transport connectivity, large accommodation capacity.

The nomination is also intended to leverage Mashhad’s rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and religious importance  to attract both pilgrims and international tourists.

The next stage of the selection process will take place during expert consultations in the capital of Uzbekistan Tashkent later this year. The winning city is expected to be announced during the OIC tourism minister’s meeting in Doha, Qatar.

Mashhad located in the province of Razav Khorosan is Iran’s second largest city and the holiest in Shia Islam, centering around the magnificent Imam Reza Shrine, a massive and highly revered mausoleum complex, one of the largest religious sites in the world, featuring stunning mosaic tilework and vast courtyards.

The city, an important centre of history, architecture, art, and traditional culture, known for its historical monuments, museums, and holy sites also serves as the gateway to the tombs of celebrated Persian literary and historical figures, including the poet Ferdowosi in nearby ancient city of Tus and the ruler Nader Shah.

Beyond its deep spiritual and historical significance, the city is globally renowned as a cultural and economic hub known for its rich culinary heritage, authentic saffron, intricate handwoven Mashhadi carpets, bustling historic,  local bazaars to shop for spices, nuts, and religious memorabilia, as well as for its extensive parks.

 Experts say the potential designation could significantly increase the number of international visitors and position Mashhad among the top tourist desitnations in the Eurasian and Middle Eastern Regions. The status could also support urban modernization projects, transportation improvements, and new international partnerships in tourism and cultural exchange.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/ir-n-propone-ciudad-de-mashhad-como-capital-tur-stica-de-la-organizaci-n-de-cooperaci-n-isl-mica-203/

Boca Chica, the Dominican Republic | Government Begins Works for the Tourist Transformation of the Town

The Dominican Government begins works for the tourist transformation of Boca Chica, a town located 30 km from the capital of the country, Santo Domingo, highlighted by its beach Playa Boca Chica, known for its turquoise waters, white sand and family - friendly atmosphere, protected by a coral reef, acting as a natural barrier and creating a large, natural swimming pool ideal for swimming and wading facing a shallow bay where the mangrove - covered islet La Matica, a renowned habitat for various species of birds.

The initiative aims to revitalise the town into a premier tourist, economic, and logistical hub and will tackle historical infrastructure, environmental, and urbanization challenges.

These interventions are part of the plans of the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) to turn Boca Chica into a more sustainable and inclusive tourist destination and the Minister of Tourism, David Collado, began the construction work of three important works in the municiopality, which include the Andrés boardwalk, a square, and a park with an investment of RD$ 414.494.110. The official stated that these works will mark a before and after for the town.

Tourism and Public Space Revitalization for the Tourist Transformation of Boca Chica -  Details:

Malecón de Andrés: Ground has officially been broken on the construction of the new Andrés waterfront, that will be executed in an intervention of approximately 53.806 square metres, from Brisas del Caucedo Street to end of the beach area.

The reconstruction of the waterfront, include recreational areas, access roads and a road section of approximately 923 linear metres of the Puerto Caucedo highway, with the aim of reducing heavy traffic and improving mobility in the area.

The works will include preliminary cleaning work, preparation of the land and technical studies; rehabilitation of the boardwalk, sidewaks, pavements, storm drainage and road signage.

In addition, construction will include sales modules, bathrooms, gazebo, security checkpoint and recreational spaces such as beach volleyball court, children’s games and exercise areas.

Similarly the project, which will have an investment of RD$ 380.738.684 includes the reorganization of parking areas, the installation of street furniture, lighting, landscaping, as well as sanitary and electrical systems, including public lighting and internal networks, with the purpose of improving the conditions of use, safety and attractiveness of the space for residents and visitors.

Plaza Caracoles: The remodelling of the square Plaza Caracoles, a project bounded by Duarte Avenue and south of Boca Chica beach, will be executed in an intervention area of 1.495 square metres of green area, 575 of pavement and 700 of natural sand path.

At the cost of RD$ 16.745.425, the project includes the construction of a new square, landscaping, lighting, installation of urban furniture including trash cans, bollards, benches, restoration of swings, reconstruction of sidewalks and signage.

Parque Central: The reconstruction of Parque Central (Central Park), bounded by San Rafael Arcángel Avenue to the north, Duarte Avenue to the south, Pedro Mella Street to the wast and Juan B. Vecino Street to the west, includes an intervention area of 1.472 square metres with 560 M2 of green area, 765 M2 of pavement and 50 M2 of access ramps for the disabled,The investment of this work will cost RD$ 17.010.000.   

The set of these projects come in addition to the comprehensive plan for the reorganization of Boca Chica, which includes the remodelling of  San Rafael Arcángel Parish, the reconstruction of Children’s Park, a Politur building, a vendor’s plaza, Duarte Street and intervention of the beach, among others.

Link

https://www.arecoa.com/destinos/2026/06/03/gobierno-inicia-obras-para-la-transformacion-turistica-de-boca-chica/

Malaga, Spain | Considering Two Moratoriums for Hotels and Apartments

Malaga, a vibrant, historic port city on southern Spain’s Costa del Sol within the autonomous community of Andalusia, the sixth largest city in the country , uniquely blending a 3.000 - year old heritage with a modern, cosmopolitan energy, birthplace of the famed painter Pablo Picasso, highlighted by a refined architecture, urban beaches and a mild climate year round, through its City Council with the aim to curb tourist overcrowding is considering two moratoriums:  one for tourism apartments and hotels of three stars or less, and another to prevent shops from ending up as tourist apartments.  

The city is working on a General Municipal Plan that design the future of Malaga, replaceing the current one, established in 2011. On 27th May 2026 with the government team led by the Mayor Francisco de la Torre Prado started to work on two moratoriums. The first aims to freeze permits for new tourist apartment blocks for a year, and the second prohibits the opening of hotels with three stars or less.

Furthermore, the conversion of commercial premises into holiday apartments will be banned. 
The amendment to the General Urban Development Plan (PGOM) will include these specific measures : 

•    Tourist apartments: Projects for entire buildings intended for short - term rentals will be halted, a sector that had doubled its application in the last year following previous restrictions on individual apartments. 
•    Hotels: The moratorium only affects establishments with three stars or less, allowing the development of four – star opr higher in an attempt to prioritise a higher – quality model. 
•    Commercial Premises: Any conversion of commercial premises for tourist use will be strictly blocked, although their transformation will be permitted if the purpose is residential.
•    Timeframe: The measures will have an initial duration of at least one year while the new regulations are drafted. 

For the opposition, these moratoriums are insufficient, firstly because of the time frame as it demanded at the May plenary session that the moratoriums for tourist apartments and hotels be for five years and furthermore, the ban in effect since last year on the opening of new tourism apartments has to be extended to that period, these dwellings have a different legal status than tourist apartments, and the current moratorium is for three years.  

In addition the opposition also requests that the five - year moratorium prohibition include changes of use commercial premises for speculative purposes. 

Link 
https://www.preferente.com/noticias-de-hoteles/malaga-estudia-dos-moratorias-de-hoteles-y-de-apartamentos-349986.html

Hong Kong, China | ITE – International Trade Fair for Outbound Tourism and MICE - 11. - 14. June 2026

Hong Kong, city and special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China, situated on the country’s southern coast to the east of the Pearl River estuary, just south of Shenzhen will host from 11th to 14th June 2026 ITE, a relevant international trade fair for outbound tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) segment,  bringing together tourism professionals and travel enthusiasts to explore emerging trends, establish business connections, and discover travel offers.

The event takes places at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) located at 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, a state - of - the - art venue renowned for its excellent infrastructure and stunning views of the Hong Kong skyline and Victoria Harbour and is organized by TKS Exhibition Services Ltd, an award - winning firm based in Hong Kong specialized in the planning of relevant events and fairs of high - level.

As Asia’s major international travel fair, ITE features over 400 exhibitors from 50+ countries and regions across Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania, and the Americas, with separate days dedicated to travel professionals and the general public (the first two days are reserved exclusively for trade visitors).

Participants include international tourism boards, tour operators, airlines, hotels and travel agencies, using this unique platform to present and promote their newest products and services.

In addition to the exhibition itself, the event offers expert presentations, panel discussions and networking opportunities that foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among industry professionals.

What makes ITE special and unique in its kind is its wide range focus on various sectors of the global trave market. These include luxury and premium travel, adventure and eco - tourism, business travel within the MICEl (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibition) segment, cruise, and specialized niche markets  such as cultural and wellness tourism.

The fair offers B2B opportunities that include structured business matching, industry forums, and networking sessions for global suppliers and regional buyers.

Innovative topics like travel technology and digitalization are also prominently featured, with exhibitors  showcasing the latest trends, developments and products. 

 Specialized pavilions feature themed areas such as High - Tech displays including XR 6D multi - sensory experiences, historical showcases like “1936 Hong Kong” and AI travel - time photo books alongside Sustainable/Green Tourism, Family Travel, Eco - Tourism, and Winter/Snow Travel.

 Public days offer cultural performances, over 80 travel seminars hosted by KOLs, booth games and on - site booking discounts.

By combining a trade fair with a public event, the ITE Hong Kong International Travel Expo creates valuable synergies between industry and consumers. Professional gain access to up - to - date trends and business opportunities, while private visitors can gather travel inspiration and take advantage of exclusive deals.

The fair undoubtedly stands as a symbol of diversity, innovation and international dialogue in tourism and travel, while also reflecting the cultural vibrancy appeal, and essence of Hong Kong as a global travel destination.

Links

https://www.itehk.com/travelexpo/index.php?menuID=main&module=content&topLevel=1050&subLevel=40&lang=en

https://www.tradefairdates.com/ITE-Hong-Kong-International-Travel-Expo-M8083/Hong-Kong.html

South Street Partners | Acquired a 249 - Key Condominium Hotel in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, U.S.

South Street Partners, a private equity real estate firm headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Charleston, South Carolina, has acquired a 249 - key condominium hotel in Sunny Isles Beach, a premier barrier island city located in northeast Miami - Dade County,  halfway between Miami and Fort Lauderdale in the U.S. state of Florida, a destination well known for its 3.2 kilometres of pristine white - sand shoreline,  luxury high - rise oceanfront resorts, and world - class dining.                               

Sunny Isles Beach is a vibrant destination, highlighted by Newport Fishing Pier, a central spot for angling ad scenic ocean views, Haulover Park, offering a world - renowned sandbar ideal for boating, a dedicated kite - flying area, and one of Florida’s most popular official nude beaches on its northern edge, and a short drive away of the historic Spanish Monastery,  featuring lush, medieval gardens and architecture.  

Solé Miami, a full - service condominium entered in the South Street Partners portfolio and is managed by Noble House Hotels & Resorts, a hospitality company based in Kirkland, Washington, with a legacy spanning over four decades, managing hotels and properties across North America, boasting a curated - driven experience of one - of - a - kind hotels, resorts and adventures with an emphasis on location,  distinction and soul.

This hip boutique horel is located at 17315 Collins Avenue on the north end of Miami Beach in an area known for high - rise condominiums, dining venues, and Newport Fishing Pier, 5.7 kilometres from the upscale Bal Harbour Shops and 9.6 km from the Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami.

The property providing direct beach access features both ocean and city views, offers 249 comfortable rooms, four on - site food and beverage outlets, a fitness centre with steam room and sauna, an oceanfront pool, beach amenities, including umbrellas, private beach service, and dune and beach dining, five indoor and four outdoor meeting venues. 

South Street Partners plans to upgrade guest rooms and common areas, followed by additional improvements to the property. The hotel will be added to the company’s hospitality asset portfolio in Southeastern markets.

No transaction value, financial terms, or timeline for the planned upgrades were disclosed. The announcement did not specifiy any changes to the current management arrangement with Noble House Resorts.

Links

https://www.solemiami.com/?utm_source=gmb-resort&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141400.html

Hyatt Hotels Corporation | Unveiled the Opening of a a 393 – Room Hyatt Place Hotel in Tianjin, China

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, American multinational hospitality company based in Chicago, Illinois has unveiled the opening of a 393 - room Hyatt Place hotel in Tianjin, one of China’s four direct - administered municipalities, a major port city located on the shore of the Bohai Sea, 120 kilometres southeast of Beijing, a centre famous for its eclectic blend of European and Chinese architecture,  a rich legacy of 20 th - century foreign concessions, thriving maritime trade, and a renowned comedic and culinary culture.

The opening of Hyatt Place Tianjin South Railway Station marks the debut of the brand in the city, increasing the presence of Hyatt Hotels Corporation in China and East Asia in key destinations like Tianjin, where tourism sector is experiencing strong, consistent growth, highlighted by 272 million domestic visitors generating 320 billion yuan in a recent full - year cycle.

The hotel is located in the core of Tianjin South Railway Station within the Perennial International Healthcare and Business City in Tianjin,  a massive $1 billion, 3.5 million square - foot transit - oriented development, about a 400 - metre walk from Metro Line 3, with convenient and easy access to the city centre, cultural attractions such as the Five Great Avenues,  as well as Yangliuqing Ancient Town and Tianjin Binhai International Airport is around 45 minutes away by car.

The property is part of of an integrated development that include healthcare, senior living, hospitality, and commercial spaces, described as China’s first high - speed rail Transit - Oriented Development integrating eldercare, healthcare, rehabilitation, and hotel offerings.

Hyatt Place Tianjin South Railway Station features 393 comfortable rooms and suites with floor - to - ceiling windows, bedding, high - speed Wi –-Fi, smart climate control, and minibars. Some rooms are equipped with Cozy Corner sofa - sleeper beds, 55 - inch  LED televisions, and intelligent control systems. Select suites provide panoramic city views, with bathrooms feature separate wet and dry areas.

The hotel’s all - day dining restaurant, The Kitchen, offers Chinese and Western dishes, including Tianjin - style breakfast specialties and other international options. An à la carte menu features Beijng and Tianjin flavours, as well as Southeast Asian and international selections.

Facilities at the hotel include a 24 - hour fitness centre, indoor heated pool, yoga studio, 24 - hour self – service laundry, and free Wi – Fi throughout the property.

For meetings and events, the hotel provides access to over 3.000 square metres of multifunctional space within the Tianjin Hotel Cluster. The meeting and event spaces are designed to accommodate a range of business and social gatherings.

Hyatt Place Tianjin South Railway Station joins a select - service brand as Hyatt Place, designed for mid - to upper income business and leisure travellers, known for its modern comforts, offering a blend of spacious rooms with distinct work and rest zones, 24/7 convenience and a focus on style and innovation.

Links

https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-place/en-US/cnaaf-hyatt-place-tianjin-south-railway-station

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141468.html

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) | Announced the Opening of its First Taj Hotel in Continental Europe, Located in Frankfurt, Germany

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), a hospitality firm part of Tata Group and based in Mumbai, India, has announced the opening of its first Taj hotel in Continental Europe, located in Frankfurt, a relevant central German city on the river Main, a major financial hub that is home to the European Central Bank, a centre that combines warmth, cosiness and cosmopolitanism, where tradition meets modernity and historical charm, boasting a rich cultural and historical heritage highlighted by its stunning Old Town several museums and galleries, an active art scene and well known to be the birthplace of famed writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

The Taj Hessscher Hof Frankfurt marking the Taj’s brand’s entry into Continental Europe is owned by Peakside Capital, an independent, owner - operated real estate investment manager and entrepreneur based in Frankfurt, a firm targets hotel, commercial and residential properties across Europe, underwent extensive renovations prior to its reopening under the Taj brand.

The hotel is located at Friedrich - Ebert –-Anlage 40, directly opposite the Messe Frankfurt (Frankfurt Trade Fair) in the financial district, 800 metres from Frankfurt central train station and 12 km from Frankfurt International Airport

The property seamlessly blending traditional European aristocratic elegance with signature Indian hospitality features 126 refined rooms, several dining and beverage options, such as Bombay Brasserie, which serves Bombay and Indian cuisine, Jimmy’s Bar. Known for live piano performances and cocktails, and the Lobby Bar, which offers teas, coffees, and pastries.

The establishment provides wellness and fitness facilities including the J Wellness Circle, which is based on Ayurveda principles, and a fitness centre.

For meeting and events, Taj Hessscher Hof Frankfurt offers three spaces with natural daylight and high ceiling. In addition the hotel features The Chambers, a members - only business club.

The hotel joins the emblematic Taj brand, characterized by its deep Indian heritage and authentic cultural experience, world - class service and a strong commitment to sustainability.

The brand also focuses on preserving Indian culinary traditions and craftmanship, maintaining an iconic luxury image, and expanding its global presence highlighting responsible tourism.

Links

https://www.ihcltata.com/press-room/frankfurt-legend-redefined-taj-hessischer-hof-opens-its-door

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141482.html