Minor Hotels | To Enter Egyptian Market with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruise Joint Venture Planning to Open 50 Hotels

Minor Hotels, an international operator, investor, and owner in the hospitality industry, a company founded in 1978 and based in Bangkok, Thailand, boasting a large portfolio of hotels, resorts and vacation properties across the world has announced a strategic joint venture with Egypt - based SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises, a renowned hospitality company founded in 2003 and operates numerous resorts and cruise ships across Egypt, including in the Red Sea coastal cities and along the Nile in Luxor and Aswan.

The partnership plans to open and manage up to 50 new properties across Egypt over the next decade combining Minor Hotels’ success driven by consistent financial growth, evidenced by rising revenues and profits, supported by strategic through new properties and a growing franchise model and the presence on Egyptian soil of  SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises which offers a range of experiences, including resorts, adults - only getaways and family - friendly options, focusing on quality, safety, and environmental responsiveness.

The agreement, signed in the presence of Egypt’s Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, will cover city hubs and leisure hotspots including West Cairo, the North Coast, and Ain Sokhna, a town in the Suez Governorate, lying on the western shore of the Red’ s Gulf of Suez.

The vernture includes the launch of Minor Hotels’ flagship Anantara Hotels & Resorts, a brand emphasizes experiential luxury through a connection to local culture and environment, offering authentic destination experiences, and a focus on authentic service, and the management of seven initial projects across greenfield, brownfield, and operational sites.

In addition the joint venture will also expand into Nile Cruise operations between Aswan and Luxor, aligning with growing interest in Egypt’s luxury tourism offering and supporting the country’s long - term Vision 2030 development goals.

Links

https://media.minorhotels.com/en-GLO/254983-minor-hotels-expands-footprint-in-egypt-with-sunrise-resorts-cruises-joint-venture/
https://atta.travel/resource/minor-hotels-to-enter-egyptian-market-with-sunrise-resorts-joint-venture.html

Hilton | Announced the Grand Opening of the Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio, Texas, U.S.

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc., American multinational hospitality company based in Tysons, Virginia has announced the grand opening of the Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio, vibrant city, seat of Bexar Country in south - central Texas, U.S. situated at the headwaters of San Antonio River on the Balcones Escarpment, a centre with a rich colonial heritage, offering historic sites like the Alamo and Spanish missions, outstanding museums, outdoor activities such as theme parks and golf, attractions walking on the River Walk, shopping, and a lively nightlife.

This development marks the first Signia by Hilton property in the state and represents Hilton’s 9.000 hotel worldwide.

The property, owned by Ohana Real Estate Investors, a US - based firm that invests in hotels and resort communities across the United States and Mexico, based in Redwood City, California and managed by Hilton, has undergone a renovation exceeding $40 million.

The resort is located at 16641 La Cantera Parkway in La Cantera Distrct, nestled on 550 scenic acres overlooking the rolling hills and majestic live oaks of the Hill country, 2.2 kilometres from the Shops at La Cantera mall, 3 kilometres from Six Flag Fiesta Texas, 27 km from downtown San Antonio and just 20 minutes from San Antonio International Airport. 

The property features 496 comfortable rooms, 34 boutique - style villas and a an adults - only floor, o nine dining options offering Texas - inspired cuisine, with venues including SweetFire Kitchen and Primero Cantina.

Amenities include the Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness, which spans 25.000 square feet, offering various treatments, a golf course designed by Jay Morrish and Tom Weiskopf, five pools, and over 131.000 square feet of meeting space, making it an ideal destination for events and social gatherings.

The meeting and event facilities include more than 28 venues. Highlights are  San Antonio Grand Ballroom, and La Cantera Ballroom, and the new venue, The Calera offers 5.100 square feet of space for weddings and events.

The resort offers a complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions, including Six Flags Fiesta Texas, and The Shops at La Cantera. 

The property entered in Signia by Hilton brand that offers a sophisticated travel experience through distinctive design, chef - driven restaurants, signature bars, premium wellness amenities, and flexible, tech - enhanced meeting and event spaces.

The brand emphasizes a vibrant atmosphere, personalized service, and integrates smart technology, providing luxury and an elevated guest experience in gateway cities and resort destinations worldwide, all backed by the Hilton Honors programme.

The opening of the resort add to Hilton’s presence in Texas, where the company currently operates nearly 80 hotels and has more than 40 in development.

Links 
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/satcnsa-signia-la-cantera-resort-and-spa/
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article138334.html

IHG Hotels & Resorts | Officially Opened its First InterContinental Hotel in Sapporo, Japan

IHG Hotels & Resorts, British multinational hospitality company based in Windsor, Berkshire, UK has officially opened its first InterContinental hotel in Sapporo, capital of the mountainous northern Japanese island of Hokkaido, famous for its beer, skiing, the iconic annual Sapporo Snow Festival with intricate ice sculptures, beautiful parks and nature.

The InterContinental Sapporo by IHG is situated at 1 Chome - 1 - 48 Minami 10 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, in Nakajima Park area, just one subway stop from the vibrant Susukino entertainment district, known for its several restaurants, bars, cafes, clubs, cinemas and karaoke parlours, 14 minutes from Tanukikoji Shopping Street and 1.7 kilometres from the bustling city centrre of Sapporo.

The hotel occupies the 9th to 14th floors of the Lilac Square complex featuring stunning views of the city, park, and Toyohira River developed with a design that incorporates elements inspired by the natural landscapes of Hokkaido, with a focus on residential - style luxury.

The property features 149 comfortable rooms, including 13 suites, three distinct dining options include Sawaka that offers an omakase - style dining experience focusing on both local and global culinary techniques, AuBlanc, offering an all - day dining experience, featuring a breakfast buffet, evening meals and a bakery, and Norva Lounge & Bar which serves afternoon teas and cocktails in a setting designed for relaxation.

Amenities include a 24 - hour fitness centre and a 20 - metre indoor heated pool, both located on the 9th floor, and the Club InterContinental lounge on the top floor, offering guests additional services, including private check - in and evening refreshments.

InterContinental Sapporo by IHG is part of a global portfolio of 231 InterContinental hotels, including 10 in Japan, a brand characterized by a commitment to bold exploration and cultural discovery through unique destinations and immersive experiences, offering a global luxury hotel experience, emphasizing intentional flexibility, allowing guests to seamlessly adapt their stay.

Links 
https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/gb/en/sapporo/spkha/hoteldetail
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article138337.html

India | Launched its First Regional Rapid Transit Corridor to Transform Connectivity among Cities

India has launched its first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor, the Delhi - Ghaziabad - Meerut RRTS, connecting cities and transforming connectivity by providing fast, reliable, and modern high - speed public transportation for inter - city travel, as part of a broader national initiative to improve infrastructure. 

The South Asian country is moving closer to full completion this route, marking a milestone in sustainable urban transport for the National Capital Region (NCR) as reported by ANI, an Indian news agency that offers syndicated multimedia news feeds to news bureaus in the country.

According to the source, by integrating advanced technology, efficient design and sustainable practices, the RRTS is positioning itself as one of India’s most transformative transport initiatives, reshaping mobility, reducing congestion and empowering communities across the region.

Stretching 82 kilometres, the corridor is the first of three priority lines planned under the country’s regional rapid transit initiative, accurately designed to cut time between the capital of the country, Delhi and Meerut, a city that serves as the administrative headquarters of its district and lies in the western side of the state of Uttar Pradesh, from more than three hours to just one, a high - speed line set to redefine daily commuting for millions.

As of August 2025, 55 kilometres of the network being delivered under the guidance of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs are already operational connecting New Ashok Nagar metro station on the Blue Line located in the eastern part of Delhi to Meerut South with 11 modern stations, where trains run at a speed of up to 180 km/h and an intervals of just 5 to 10 minutes. 

Beyond faster journeys, the project is also expected to significantly reduce annual carbon emission, while encouraging balanced, polycentric development across the NCR.

Link 

https://tvbrics.com/en/news/india-launches-first-rapid-transit-corridor-to-transform-connectivity-among-cities/

Colombia | Set Record for International Visitor Arrivals in 2025

Colombia is seeing a tourism boom showcasing significant growth compared to previous years, the South American country set record for international visitor arrivals in 2025 and reached a total of 3.137. 210 non - resident tourists between January and August of this year, an unprecedented figure for this period in the last decade.

This success is driven by diverse offerings, a strategic pivot to the influencer economy and authentic cultural experiences and the country is consolidating itself as a very competitive and attractive destination, with projections of sustained growth.

Compared to the same period in 2024, the increase in visitor arrivals was 5.3%, a moderate percentage increase but significant in absolute volume, figures that are in line with the World Tourism Organization projections, which anticipate a global growth of close to 5% for this year.

The positive trend of the Colombian tourism sector continues, with more than 530.000 air reservations to the Latin American country that registered for the period between September 2025 and February 2026, representing a 5.2% increase over the same period in 2024, setting another record in the history of Colombian inbound tourism.

Regarding travel reasons the results recorded are : 

•    Leisure tourism - 73%
•    Trips to visit friends and family - 11%
•    Group travel - 8%
•    Business travel - 7%

Paula Cortés Calle, Executive President of ANATO, the Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies highlighted the importance of these brilliant results. stating that visitors not only boost the economy, but also act as ambassadors of Colombian culture, identity, and biodiversity, strengthening the country’s visibility abroad.

The Executive President added that Colombia is emerging as a strategic destination and international meeting point. These achievements reflect the dynamism of the tourism sector and its contribution as a key driver of the national economy.

Link 
https://en.travel2latam.com/news-101099-colombia-sets-record-for-international-visitors-in-2025

Angola | Unveiled “Visit Angola - The Rhythm of Life”, a New Brand to Reinvent its Tourism Identity

Angola has unveiled “Visit Angola – The Rhythm of Life", a new tourism brand designed to reposition the African nation on the international travel map by foregrounding culture, hospitality, attractions, diversity and authentic experiences as part of a strategic campaign to boost international arrivals, attract investment, and elevate the country as a vibrant destination.

The new brand aims to reinvent the tourism indentity of the country and underscores Angola’s intention to claim greater visibility within Africa’s evolving tourism landscape, launching signals  for new opportunities for travel professionals and investors targeting underexplored destinations.

Introduced by Tourism Minister Márcio Daniel at a launch event in the capital of the country Luanda, the brand forms a key pillar of Angola’s “Comunica Turismo” initiative, aimed at promoting tourism as a driver of economic diversification alongside other sectors such as agriculture and fisheries.

The campaign inspired by traditional Angolan rhythms and the country’s cultural mosaic includes a dedicated official website providing detailed information and booking services, the promotional Visit Angolamagazine available in digital and in print formats,two tracks on which where presented at the launch, a 24 - hour tourist support hotline to provide information and assistance to visitors, as well as endorsements from prominent figures like Leila Lopes and DJ Jeff.

Tourism Minister acknowledged challenges such as infrastructure and workforce development, but emphasized Angola’s distinct cultural and natural appeal, from national parks to its pristine coastlines as key assets.

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/angola-launches-visit-angola-the-rhythm-of-life-to-reinvent-its-tourism-identity.html

Ireland | Tourism Ireland has Appointed UM as its New Global Media Strategy and Planning

Tourism Ireland, the marketing body responsible for marketing the island of Ireland overseas as a leading holiday destination, delivering world - class marketing programmes in 14 markets has appointed UM as its new global media strategy, planning and buying agency following a competitive EU - wide tender. 

UM (Universal McCann) is a leading global media agency network based in New York, U.S., a member of Interpublic Group and operating as part of IPG Mediabrands, , specializing in media planning and buying for a wide range of major brands including American Express, Coca - Cola, and Johnson & Johnson among others.

The firm is well known to use business analytics, real - time intelligence, and cultural insights to create strategic and customized campaigns across traditional and digital media, with a focus on achieving purposeful growth and promoting responsible media practices.

The four - year contract, with options to extend up to seven years, is valued at an estimated €210 million, roughly €30 million annually across more than 14 markets with the aim to attract more visitors and boosting the Irish tourism sector.

UM will play a critical role in promoting Ireland overseas handling media buying and planning across TV, cinema, digital, social, search and other channels, with a mandate to maximize efficiency in key markets including the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the Nordic countries.

Ireland tourism sector has shown a resilient recovery, with the island’s tourism revenue reaching €6.4 billion in 2023, surpassing 2019 levels and €6.9 billion in 2024 welcoming 6.6 million international visitors, a +5% increase on 2023, and supporting about 300.000 jobs across the country.

Following these brilliant performances Ireland Tourism has set an ambitious target of growing imbound tourism by an average of 5.6% annually through 2030.

Tourism Ireland’s Director of Marketing, Aidan Power said that overseas tourism was worth €6.9 to the island of Ireland in 2024, and the destination is targeting sustained growth to €9 billion by 2030. Inspring holidaymakers and competing with other global destinations is critical, and UM will play a key role in realizing that ambition.

Global Brand President of UM, Susan Kingston Brown, expressing her enthusiasm for the partnership, noted UM’s deep expertise in global media and its strong ties to Ireland stating that UM is proud of its data - driven consumer expertise, driving return on investment with insight and emotion for consumers.

 Link

https://www.travelmole.com/news/tourism-ireland-um-media-strategy/

China | Calling for Global Cooperation in Developing Biosphere Reserves

China has called for global cooperation in developing biosphere reserves, UNESCO - designated areas promoting sustainable development by balancing biodiversity conservation with human communities, sites that under the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme serve as “learning spaces” for research and testing local solutions to global challenges, integrating conservation, sustainable socio – cultural, and environmentally sound economic development.

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang speaking at the opening of the 5th World Congress of Biosphere which took place in Hangzhou,  the capital city of China’s Zhejiang Province called for joint efforts to strengthen the construction, to promote the harmonious co - existence of humanity and nature, and to achieve synergistic progress between the economy and the environment.

As reported by Xinhua News Agency the Chinese Vice – Premier emphasising the need to balance economic progress with environmental protection stressed that China had strengthened its own conservation system while also taking an active role in international climate action.

The official outlined four priorities for future international cooperation are : 

•    Advancing joint international initiatives 
•    Promoting scientific and technological collaboration 
•    Adopting comprehensive approaches to climate response, biodiversity and human wellbeing 
•    Defending multilateralism by improving global governance mechanism 

The Vice - Premier also expressed China’s readiness to expand cooperation with UNESCO in education, science, heritage protection and environmental initiatives.

China is currently implementing various biosphere initiatives through the ambitious Shan - Shui Initiative, which aims to restore landscapes and ecosystems across the country, and by actively participating in the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. These initiatives, supported by scientific and technological collaboration and the vision of ecological civilization, focus on integrated approaches to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
 

Link  

https://tvbrics.com/en/news/china-calls-for-global-cooperation-to-advance-biosphere-reserves/

Marriott International | Officially Opened a New JW Marriott Resort & Spa in Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam

Marriott International, American multinational hospitality company headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland has officially opened a new JW Marriott Resort & Spa in Cam Ranh Bay, a deep - water bay in Vietnam Khán Hòa Province, located at an inlet of the South China Sea on the southeastern coast of the country, between Phan Rang and Nha Rang.

The locality surrounded by green hills offering stunning panoramic views is highlighted by idyllic beaches, secluded relaxation spots, and relevant archaeological sites dating back to ancient times, adds another layer of intrigue for history enthusiasts.  

The launch of the JW Marriott Cam Ranh Bay Resort & Spa marks the debut of the company on the country’s central coast and the expansion of Marriott International presence in a key destination in Southeast Asia like Vietnam, a country that welcomed 17.58 million international tourists in 2024, and experiencing a significant surge in 2025, with projections for total tourism revenue to reach US$26.7 billion. 

The resort is located along the Cam Lam peninsula, on Bai Dai Beach, also known as Long Beach, a beautiful stretch with soft golden sands and clear waters, surrounded by scenic landscapes, offering a serene and uncrowded environment, ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature, snorkeling and diving in Cam Rahn Bay, positioned near Cam Rahn International Airport.

 The resort spans 22 hectares with a design that incorporates Asian - inspired elements, influenced by the five natural elements : earth, fire, metal, water and wood and includes over 1.000 species of indigenous flora.

 Design studios AND, SUPER POTATO, and PIA developed the resort’s architecture. The property comprises 203 rooms and private villas, with 27 - one - to four - bedroom villas, ten of which are beachfront. Each villa includes a private infinity pool and outdopor terrace, developed with interiors which reflect the coastal environment with natural materials and wooden accents.

F&B options at JW Marriott Can Ranh Bay Resort & Spa include a variety of restaurants and bars. Clay Craft is the all - day dining venue, while the Seafood Grill offers freshly grilled seafood. Bayside Bistro and Ocean Bar provide international cuisine in a beachfront setting, and additional venues include Baking Company, the Lobby Lounge, and the Pool Bar.

The resort also features The Pottery Club, a studio connected to the Clay Craft restaurant, which highlights local pottery traditions and offers classes in traditional pottery techniques, including those from Bau Truc Village.

Amenities at the property include two main swimming pool, children’s pools, a Lazy River, a 24/7 fitness centre, the Spa by JW that includes eight treatment rooms and a vitality pool. 

In addition the establishment also offers the Family by JW program offering activities for children and it boasts the JW Garden supplies fresh produce for the resort’s restaurants.

The new resort is now part of JW Marriott Brand characterized by an approachable mindful luxury, focusing on guest - wellbeing through holistic wellness programs, serene spaces, and experiences inspired by nature and local culture.

Links 
https://www.marriott.com/en-gb/hotels/cxrjw-jw-marriott-cam-ranh-bay-resort-and-spa/overview/
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article138338.html

IHCL, The Indian Hotels Company Limited | Launched Taj Lalit Bagh, a New Hotel in Naharmagra, Udaipur, India

IHCL, The Indian Hotels Company Limited, hospitality firm based in Mumbai and part of Tata Group has announced the launch amd opening of Taj Lalit Bagh, a new hotel located in Naharmagra, a village in the roots of Udaipur, relevant city in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, known as the City of Lakes” for the abundance of lakes in its boundaries, a centre also renowned for its Rajputana grandeur, royal residences, opulent palaces, romantic vistas, and timeless charm that beckon travellers from across the globe.

The hotel designed to blend historical architecture with modern facilities is located along Mavli Road, approximately 15 minutes from Udaipur airport, hosted on a century - old estate and features 155 rooms, an all – day dining venue, Nonya, a Pan - Asian restaurant with an accompanying bar, a spa, fitness centre, and a swimming pool. 

In addition  the property provides indoor and outdoor spaces suitable for events such as corporate gatherings, meetings and weddings.

The new hotel is now part of the Taj brand, characterized by its deep Indian heritage and authentic cultural experiences, world - class service known as “Tajness” a strong commitment to sustainability through its Paathya framework, and a comprehensive ESG strategy.

The brand also focuses on preserving Indian culinary traditions and craftanships, maintaining an iconic luxury image, and expanding its global presence with a focus on responsible tourism.

This opening marks another addition to The Indian Hotels Company Limited’s portfolio in Udaipur, which now includes four properties. 

Links 
https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/hotels/taj-lalit-bagh-udaipur
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article138311.html

Hilton | Announced the Opening of a New 81 - Room Hilton Garden Inn Hotel in Mexico City, Mexico

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc., American multinational hospitality company headquartered in Tysons, Virginia has announced the opening of its new Hilton Garden Inn Mexico City Polanco, in Mexico City or Ciudad de México, the vibrant capital and largest city of Mexico, as well as the most populous centre in North America, located in the Valley of Mexico within the high Mexican central plateau at an altitude of 2.240 metres, an important, financial and political centre also boasting a rich cultural and historical heritage, built in the 16th century by the Spanish on the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the old Aztec capital. 

The hotel is situated at Leon Tolstoi in the Polanco neighbourhood in the Miguel Hidalgo borough, an exclusive and affluent area of Ciudad de México, often called the "Beverly Hills of Mexico” known for luxury shopping on Presidente Masaryk Avenue, fine dining, trendy restaurants, upscale hotels and relevant cultural institutions. It is considered a safe, walkable, and sophisticated area with a higher cost of living compared to other districts.

The property, conveniently close to shopping, dining and various attractions is situated one kilometres from the financial district, near cultural sites, including Chapultepec Castle, Imbursa Aquarium, the National Museum of Anthropology, Soumaya Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, with nearby landmarks include Auditorio Nacional, Plaza Antara, the Angel of Independence, 15 kilometres from Benito Juarez International Airport and 13 kilometres from Reforma. 

The establishment, a 10 - story hotel owned by Grupo Hotelero Gosa, a hospitality company based in Mexico City that encompasses in its portfolio several hotel brands in Mexico and the United States features 81 comfortable rooms. Each guestroom is equipped with an HDTV, ergonomic workspace, minibar, and coffee maker.

Amenities include an outdoor restaurant with views of Chapultepec Castle, a 24 - hour fitness centre, complimentary Wi - Fi, and a meeting toom with a capacity of up to 50 guests.

Hilton Garden Inn Mexico City Polanco is now part of the upscale Hilton Garden Inn brand, known for providing well - appointed, affordable accommodations with a focus on guest comfort and convenience, emphasizing intuitive design, and with features like natural light in rooms and social spaces designed for connection and relaxation.

Hilton currently operates nearly 110 hotels in Mexico, including 15 Hilton Garden Inn locations, and the company is pursuing further expansion in the country, with a pipeline of more than 45 hotels. 

Links 
https://stories.hilton.com/releases/hilton-debuts-hilton-garden-inn-mexico-city-polanco
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article138332.html

Isla de Ometepe, Nicaragua | More than Tourism, a Pillar of Production for the Country

 Isla de Ometepe, Ometepe Island, located in southwest Nicaragua’s vast Lake Cocibolca also known as Gran Lago de Nicaragua, covering 276 km², belonging to the Rivas Department and declared by the UNESCO as a Bisphere Reserve in 2010 offers several tourism options but it is also a pillar of production for the country.

The island is full of history linked to the tribes Chorotegas and Nahuas that populated Isla de Ometepe during the pre - Columbian era, offering captivating views, and known for its twin volcanoes, the active Concepción Volcano in the island’s north and Maderas Volcano both included with their reserves in the Red World Biosphere reserves with the Refugio de Vida Silvestre Peña Incuita -Humedal Istián. 

In addition to these stunning attractions, a rich biodiversity, and also Santo Domingo beach, well known for its choppy surf, Isla de Ometepe is a key production hub that drives the local and national economy. The island stands out for its agriculture, livestock and dairy products that supply the regional and also the international markets.

The island benefits from a fertile volcanic soil rich in nutrients, ideal for agriculture, which allows the cultivation and a very relevant production of bananas, plantains, coffee and tobacco.

The Rivas department accounts for approximately 70% of the national banana production, concentrating on the Isla de Ometepe more than 60% of this large production.

Another elite fruit of the island is the plantain that is recognized for its quality, flavour and also for the time it takes to ripen and it keeps fresh severla days during transport.

Furthermore the island has successfully forayed into the production of chiltomas (pimientos) and boasts a plantation production school which seeks to improve efficiency and sustainabbility in agricultural production. 

Organizations like Biometepe and Fauna & Flora are working with local farmers to promote sustainable agriculture and share best practices across the island, and intiatives like EcoVegetales are promoiting coordinated organic production and consumption  on the island.

Livestock is essential for the production of meat and delectable dairy, products very appreciated with a strong emphasois on fresh, local production. 

The local, artisanally produced cheeses are famous for their unique and varied flavour. The most notable ones include the “queso seco curado”, a dry cured cheese, known for its intense flavour and firm texture, ideal for grating or accompanying traditional dishes, and the traditional “queso fresco”, fresh cheese, smooth and perfect for breakfast spreading it on toasted bread. Also popular is the “queso ahumado”, the smoked cheese, with a natural touch that make it a gourmet delight.

Isla de Ometepe is not only a tourist paradise, but also an economic engine that drives Nicaragua’s development and generates employment for its population.

Link 
https://www.vivanicaragua.com.ni/2025/03/22/turismo/ometepe-turismo-produccion-nicaragua/

Nefud Desert, Saudi Arabia | Researchers Discovered 12.000 Year - Old Animal Petroglyphs

An international team of researcher operate in northern Saudi Arabia’s Nefud Desert, occupying a great oval depression, a desert 290 kilometres long and 225 kilometres wide, with an area of 65.000 square kilometres, noted for its sudden violent winds, which account for the large crescent - shaped dunes and characterized by its sand having a brick - reddish colour has discovered a series of massive rock carvings dating back 12.000 years.

The carvings depict life - size animals such as camels, deer, gazelles, ibex, wild bulls, and wild donkeys, some images reach three metres in length and two metres in height, meticulously carved with primitive stone tools, demonstrating advanced artistic skill and coordinated group effort, according to Al - Arabiya, renowned Saudi state - owned international Arabic news television channel, based in Riyadh and a subsidiary of MBC Group.

Luninescence dating of the underlying sediments confirmed the carvings are around 12.000 years old. Stone tools, arrowheads, beads, and even a shell bead were found nearby, suggesting cultural and trade connections with neighobouring Levantine communities in the Middle East.

These rock carvings, shedding light on prehistoric human presence in the region and filling in a significant archaeological gap, according to the researchers were not merely decorative but served as visual maps marking seasonal water sources essential for human and animal survival.

In an era of extreme drought, these signs guided nomadic tribes to critical water supplies, ensuring their survival in the Nefud Desert where rain comes once or twice per year.

The desert is so difficult to cross that the Bedouins crossed it exclusively along the N – S direction, taking care not to stray from the areas of al – Shaqīqa and al – Ğubba, where there are the only two wells capable of providing water to travellers, in a region that can count on just 35 - 40 mm of rainfall annually.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/en/news/Researchers-uncover-animal-petroglyphs-in-saudi-arabia/

Dodoma, Tanzania | Strategic Plans to Position the City and its Surroundings as Central Tourism Hub in the Country

Tanzania is rolling out strategic plans to develop Dodoma and its surrounding areas as central tourism hub for the country’s central zone.

Dodoma city is the capital of the country and the centre for national politics and is surrounded by a rich agricultural area and a pleasant landscape. Founded in 1907 by German colonists during constructions of Tanzanian railway, the city boasts in its surroundings historical monuments inherited from the ancient people who lived in this territory, and is also a land of a promising emerging viticulture. 

The government, in collaboration with the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS), Tanzania Tourism Board, and private stakeholders, is working to strengthen infrastructure and tourism services around key sites such as the iconic Kondoa Irangi Rock - Art Sites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for ancient paintings from the Late Stone Age that showcase ancient human history.

Other sites that enter in the plans are  Mkungunero reserve, a stunning natural corridor for wildlife migration from Tarangire National Park into neighbouring reserves, and Swaga Swaga game reserve that gives refuge to elephants and other vulnerable animals.

Planned upgrades include road improvements, new three - star hotels, enhanced social services, and expanded tourism offerings to attract both domestic and international visitors.

The initiative is supported by ongoing major infrastructure projects like the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), a railway system under construction and partially in operation, serving the country and linking it to the neighbouring countries of Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda, and Msalato International Airport, an air hub under construction near Dodoma City, to serve the region and replacing the smaller existing airport.

These projects are the result of a partnership between the Tanzanian Government and the African Development Bank (AfDB) which are expected to boost accessibility and economic growth.

Tourism figures in the region have already shown growth, with domestic visitor rising from 1.287 in 2018 to 7.654 in 2024, and international numbers increasing over threefold in the past four years.

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/tanzania-aims-to-position-dodoma-as-central-tourism-hub.html

Frankfurt, Germany | Introduced AI - Powered Cleaning Robots at its Airport as Part of its Facilities Strategy

Frankfurt Airport, Germany’s busiest air hub by passenger numbers, situated 12 kilometres southwest of central Frankfurt near the Autobhan interchange Frankfurter Kreuz where A3 and A5, two of the most heavily used motorways in Europe run, and surrounded by the Frankfurt City Forest, introduced AI - powered cleaning robots in its structure as part of its facilities strategy.  

With more than 500.000 square metres of polished terminal floor to maintain, the cleaning challenge is immense, and also for that these robots entered in action.

Working with cleaning innovation firm Tennant Company, a specialist in robotic cleaning solutions, founded in 1870 and based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, U.S. and Brain Corp, a provider of AI - powered robotics operating system headquartered in San Diego, California, U.S., whose AI platform powers the world’s largest fleet of cleaning robots (40.000+), Fraport Facilities Services, a division of Fraport Group, a firm based in Frankfurt, providing facility services like cleaning, maintenance, and repairs has successfully deployed the robots.

The benefits are two - fold, it frees up staff to focus on more specialist tasks and support sustainability goals through reduced water and chemical usage. 

Frankfurt Airport welcomed more than 61 million passengers in 2024 with peak days of over 200.000 travellers and the airport says within six months the robots have cleaned over 1.6 million square metres without disrupting passengers or operations.

Managing Director at Fraport Facility Services Mathias Dudek said that autonomous cleaning is the future. Based on the company positive experience so far, and the group is actively working to integrate even more robotic solutions into airport operations.

Link

https://www.travelmole.com/news/how-ai-powered-robots-are-keeping-frankfurt-airport-clean/

New York, U.S. | Business Travel Show America - Trade Fair and Conference for Business Travel and Meeting Management - From 15th to 16th October 2025

New York City will host from 15th to 16th October 2025 the Business Travel Show America, a leading trade fair dedicated to the meeting management and optimization of business travel, distinguished by its highly specialized and practical focus on the latest challenges and trends in corporate travel management.

Held annually at the prestigious Jakob K. Javits Convention Center, commonly known as the Javits Center, located on Eleventh Avenue between 34th Street and 38th Street in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan, New York City, a venue features expansive exhibit and meeting spaces, a transparent, crystalline structure designed by I.M. Pei, this event is the American counterpart to the long - established Business Travel Show Europe taking place in London, England, UK, which has been running for over 30 years.

The trade fair is organized by the BTN Group, a company based in New York, part of the Northstar Travel Group, a global leader in B- to B information, and a publlications, management and marketing solutions company serving all segments of the travel industry.

As a trade show exclusively open to industry professionals, the event serves as a central meeting point for all those seeking to optimize their business. 

The Business Travel Show America is a unique platform where core topics include cost - reduction strategies, efficiency improvements, policy compliance, the use of advanced data analytics and reporting tools to enhance travel programs, fundamental pillars in the modern business travel and meeting management industry.

In the trade fair, technological innovation is another major emphasis, covering digital booking platforms, the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation in travel management, and mobile solutions that improve and enhance both the efficiency and comfort of business travel.

A defining feature and highlight of Business Travel Show America is its strong commitment to sustainability and responsible travel, reflected in initiatives such as CO₂ reduction programs, ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) and sustainable travel options strategies.

The event also offers  in - depth insights into safety and risk management, including crisis response, duty – of – care programs, and travel security and health tracking systems.

Hybrid work models and their impact on business travel are other forward - looking themes protagonists in the trade fair, as well as emerging travel concepts like “bleisure” the combination of business and leisure, referring of combining a business trip with personal vacation time, typically by extending the trip to include leisure activities or exploring the destination after work commitments are met, explored in detail, with discussions aim to provide attendees with valuable insights and future - oriented ideas.

A standout feature of Business Travel Show America is the “Business Travel Innovation Faceoff”, a dynamic showcase where cutting - edge technologies and services compete to solve challenges in the business travel industry, and where twelve selected innovative solutions are showcased and awarded, setting new benchmarks across the industry.

Business Travel Show America through hands - on discussions and relevant interactive workshops with leading industry experts, and in - depth case studies, provides an ideal platform for knowledge exchange, effective networking and the sharing of best practices. 

Links 
https://www.businesstravelshowamerica.com/
https://www.tradefairdates.com/Business-Travel-Show-America-M14323/New-York-City.html