Club Med SAS | To Open a New Exclusive Collection Resort in Koh Samui, Thailand

Club Med SAS, commonly known as Club Med, previously named Club Méditerranée SA, a French travel and tourism operator founded in 1950 and based in Paris,France, specializing in all inclusive holiday has signed a hotel management agreement with Central Group Capital, a leading business group engaged in retail, property development and hospitality based in Bangkok to open a new Exclusive Collection resort on Koh Samui, Thailand’s second largest island, lies in the Gulf of Thailand off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus.

Koh Samui is a popular tropical destination known for palm - fringed beaches, dense rainforests, and luxury resorts, highlighted by attractions include the 12m - tall Big Buddha Temple, Fisherman’s  Village, and the scenic Ang Thong National Marine Park, offering a  mix of lively areas like Chaweng Beach snd tranquil spots like Choeng Mon and Bang Por.

Scheduled to open in the second half of 2028, the property part of Club Med’s Exclusive will be located on a pristine beach, a 25 minute drive from Koh Samui Airport.

The resort will feature a design inspired by Thai heritage and the natural surroundings providing 303 comfortable rooms, new dining concepts, over 200 metres of private beach,sports and leisure facilities, and signature Club Med programs such as Kids Club and Amazing Family.

This will be Club Med’s first Exclusive Collection resort in Thailand and its second property in the country following Club Med Phuket, which opened in 1985, and the rsort will be the third Exclusive Collection property in the East and South Asia Pacific Region.

Club Med’s Exclusive Collection currently comprise 21 vproperties, including resorts, villas, chalets and the Club Med 2 sailing yacht, representing 13% of the comnpany’s global capacity.

Link

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141047.html

IHG Hotels & Resorts | Announced the Reopening of the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, Located in Coogee, Sydney Australia

IHG Hotelts & Resorts, British multinational hospitality company based in Windsor, Berkshire, England, UK, has announced the reopening following extensive renovation of the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, located in Coogee, a beachside suburb in Sydney, capital of New South Wales and one of Australia’s largest cities, a vibrant coastal metropolis famous for its stunning natural harbour,  iconic architecture, and surf culture.

Coogee is famous for its sheltered, family - friendly beach, historic ocean baths, and vibrant coastal lifestyle. It features popular spots like Giles and Wylie Baths, the stunning Gordon’s Bay, the scenic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, patrolled waters, and bustling cafes and restaurants near Goldstein Reserve.

The hotel is located at 42 Arden Street opposite Goldstein Reserve and with views of Cougee Bay, a 3 - minute walk from Cogee Beach, 16 km from Sydney Opera House, 25 minutes from Sydney’s CBD and 20 mimnutes from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD).

The property has reopened following the completion of a multi - million dollar transformation, introducing new amenities including an ocean – facing infinity infinity pool, Club InterContinental lounge, and pickleball courts, with the Èliva Spa scheduled to open in early May.

InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach includes 198 rooms and suite. The transformation was designed by Woods Bagot, a London = based studio, established in 2001, focuses on buildings, spaces and places, operating across a range of sectors and project sizes, introducing new elements to the hotel.

The pool deck, positioned above the coastline, features a heated infinity - edge pool, private cabanas, sun lounges, and integrated seating. The terrace incorporates planters, layered planting schemes, and fire pits for winter use.

The hotel’s poolside dining offers a menu that includes classics and lighter dishes, such as “Nourish Bowls,” available throughout the hotel at any time.

The Club InterContinental lounge provides a private space with an al fresco terrace overlooking the ocean, The lounge offers breakfast by the water, complimentary afternoon tea, and twilight drinks with Champagne and canapies.

The hotel has added two pickleball courts and the Èliva Spa, opening in May, will offer magnesium mineral pools, infrared and salt saunas, cold plunge baths, a crystal steam room, and a recovery lounge with wellness technologies including PEMF infrared marks, LED facial masks, compression boots, and vitamin C - infused showers. A 24 - hour fitness studio is also available.

Shutters Restaurant & Bar opened with the hotel in December. The hotel provides a destination guide for guests, highlighting local activities such as snorkelling at Gordons Bay, swimming at Wylie’s Baths, and visiting neighborhood cafes.

InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach is part of a collection of over 240 InterContinental hotels and resorts. The brand is known for its upscale accommodations and services in prime locations around the world, pioneering new destinations for decades, from historic buildings to immersive resorts offering comfort, luxury, excellence in service and attention to details.

Recent announcements in the Asian Pacific region include InterContinental Port Moresby and Interontinental Barossa Resort & Spa, which are set to open in the coming years.

Links

https://www.ihgplc.com/en/news-and-media/news-releases/2026/intercontinental-sydney-coogee-beach-unveils-a-new-chapter

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141057.html

Marriott International | Expanded its Presence in the Southeast US by Opening a 118 - Room Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Banner Elk, Sugar Mountain, North Carolina

Marriott Intewrnational, American multinational hospitality company headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, has expanded its presence in the Southeast US by opening a 118 - room Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Banner Elk, part of  Sugar Mountain, a premier year - round Blue Ridge Mountain destination, featuring North Carolina’s largest snow - sports resort with 125 acres of skiing, a 1.200 - foot vertical drop,  and the state’s only double diamond run.

Sugar Mountain is known for extensive winter sports include skiing, tubing, ice skating, summer mountain biking, hiking, with a public golf course, and scenic landscapes highlighted by mountain overlooks and numerous rhododendron forests.

The Courtyard by Marriott Sugar Mountain Banner Elk is managed by Raines, one of the Southeast’s premier hospitality management, development, and investment groups, headquartered in Florence, South Carolina, owned by  Sugar Mountain Hospitality LLC, and it was co - developed by Clarendon Properties, a commercial real estate developer based in Wilmington, North Carolina, and Commercial Realty Advisors, LLC , a full - service commercial real estate firm providing expertise in brokerage services, development and property management headquartered in Winston - Salem, NC.

The property is located at 3988 NC 105 Highway, in downtown Banner Elk, a walkable village at the foot of Grandfather and Sugar Mountain, a short distance from Blue Ridge Parkway and nearby ski resorts, known for its cozy atmosphere, local boutiques and restaurants.

The hotel features 118 comfortable rooms, an on - site restaurant, a bar, an indoor pool,  a fitness centre, meeting space and a business centre.

The establishment joins Courtyard by Marriott hotels, a mid - priced brand, primarily targeting business travellers but also accommodating families, a select - service brand known for providing a comfortable experience with features such as workspaces, complimentary Wi - Fi, fitness centre and event spaces.

Raines partnered with ownership on the opening of the hotel, spearheading the buildout, set up and implementation of Marriott’s POS and PMS systems. Additionally the company placed, received and set up all operating supplies and equipment (OS&E) for the property.

President of operations and partner at Raines, Kerry Ranson said that the company successfully hired a general manager, and the opening team provided all necessary, tools, and systems. Raines’ team also handled all pre - opening sales and marketing initiatives, including introducing the hotel to the community, meeting with key stakeholders, engaging with other businesses in the market and pre - selling the hotel. Raines also established all internal processes and procedures to operate the hotel moving forward.

The Courtyard by Marriott Sugar Mountain Banner Elk marks Raines’s continued growth in the Southeast, Other hotels in the company’s portfolio in the region include the DoubleTree Greensville Woodruff, DoubleTree Summerville Nexton, Home2 Suites Charlotte University Research Park and Lantern Columbia.

With several additional projects in the pipeline, Raines continues to position itself for strategic growth across the Southeast. 

The opening also strengthens the South Carolina - based hotel operator’s partnership with Clarendon Properties and Commercial Realty Advisors. Completed projects they have worked on together include the Fairfield Inn & Suites Whitsett Greensboro and the Hilton Garden Inn - Greemsville, North Carolina.

Managing partner of Raines, Grey Raines said that the company is excited to expand the partnership wityh Clarendon Properties as both companies grow throughout the Southeast, proud to be the preferred management partner with such a great development company.

Link

https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/tribc-courtyard-sugar-mountain-banner-elk/overview/?cid=NAT_google_hotel_url

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141052.html

Ha Long, Vietnam | Started the Construction of a Key Wind Farm

Vietnam hasstarted the construction of the Quảng Ninh 1, a key wind farm in Ha Long a city on the country’s northern coast in the Quang Ninh province, located along the Gulf of Tonkin, southeast of the capital of the country, Hanoi, one of the first projects of its kind, considered an important step in harnessing the region’s wind potential,  according to the Vietnam News Agency (VNA).

The development has begun on the Quảng Ninh 1 Power Plant, a 200 MW project located in Ha Long in the mountainous areas of Hoành Bồ ward and Thống Nhất commune, an area that offers favourable conditions with a 250 km coastline and strong, stable wind patterns (monsoon) suitable for both onshore and offshore development.

The total investment is of approximately 7.3 trillion Vietnamese dong (over $277 million) a key project will feature 32 modern turbines and a synchronised transmission system.

Scheduled for commercial operation by 2028, aiding the region’s renewable energy growth, this key wind farm is expected to generate about 600 million kilowatt - hours (kWh)  of clean electricity to the state grid annually, once operational.

The initiative is being developed by a consortium of companies with extensive experience in renewable energy. According to local authorities, the plant will boost economic growth, increase revenue and generate employment, as well as contribute to the modernization of the energy sector.

The project is part of the national strategy to strengthen energy security and advance in the transition to cleaner sources, in line with emission reduction commitments. 

The authorities have integrated the development of renewable energies into their planning, with the aim of significantly expanding wind capacity in the coming years.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/vietnam-inicia-la-construcci-n-de-una-planta-e-lica-clave-en-el-norte-del-pa-s/

Agudo, Brazil | Researchers Discovered the Fossil Skull of a 230 Million - Year Old Reptile Belonging to the Order Rhynchosauria

Researchers from the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) discovered the fossil skull of a reptile that lived approximately 230 million years ago,belonginf to the order Rhtnchosauria in Agudo, a municipality of Rio Grande do Sul, the southernomost state of Brazil, known for its lush nature among hills and waterfalls, a strong legacy of German immigration and Gaucho culture,   ecotourism potential, highlighted by the the Raddatz Waterfall, Morro Agudo, and pasleonthological tourism in the Espaço dos Dinos.

This newly identified rhyncosaur species from Brazil’s Late Triassic is a 1.2 to 1.5 metre - long herbivore featuring a triangular head, parrot - like beak, specialized teeth for cutting plants and digging for roots, and strong similarities to Scottish rhynchosaurs.

Evolutionary analysis revealed that this new species has close relatives found in Scotland, which is explained by the fact that in the Triassic period the continents were still united in the supercontinent Pangaea, allowing similar species to be distributed over large areas.

The study describes the species called Isodapedon varzealis, a quadrupedal herbivorous reptile belongs  the order Rynchosauriat a group of extinct herbivorous, Triassic archosauromorph reptiles that existed before the expansion of the dominant dinosaurs, according to information from Metrópoles, a Brazilian online newspaper based in Brasilia.

Rhyncosaurs usually have teeth that form plates divided by a slit with asymmetrical shapes, but in this reptile discovered in Agudo those plates have more balanced proportions, hence their name Isodapedon, which means “equal dental plates”.

With this finding, Brazil now has six known Triassic rhynchosaurs, and the researchers believe that this diversity could be the result of different feeding strategies that reduced competition between species.

The fossil is now part of the collection of the Center for Support of Palaleontological Research of the Fourth Colony, in São João do Polêsine, a municipality in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

Link 

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/descubren-un-reptil-de-230-millones-de-a-os-del-grupo-de-los-rincosaurios-en-brasil/

Fort Ikoma, Tanzania | Unveiled Plans to Develop a World - Class Golf Course on the Edge of Serengeti National Park

Tanzania authorities have unveiled plans to develop an 18 - hole, Par 72 golf course situated in the area of  Fort Ikoma, roughly 1.6 km north of the Grumeti River, a former German colonial military outpost repurposed into a unique historical and wildlife destination on the edge of the iconic Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Tanzania, spanning nearly 15.000 square kilometres, featuring vast grassland plains, savannahs with acacia woodlands, riverine forests, rocky kopjes,  the Grumeti and Mara rivers, renowned for the annual Great Migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest and 400.000 zebras.

The unveiled project designed to blend sports tourism, luxury travel, and wildlife conservation forms part of Tanzania’s  broader strategy to diversify its tourism offering beyond traditional safari experiences and strengthen its appeal to the global golf tourism market, a segment experiencing asignificant growth internationally.

The development is funded by TANAPA Investment Ltd, a commercial arm of the Tanzania National Parks Authority, with a budget of approximately 7.5 billion Tanzanian Shillings (about $3.2 million).

The course, stretching 7, 065 kilometres will be among the longest in Africa, and will offer golfers the rare experience of playing in close proximity to wildlife -including within reach of the Serengeti’s world - famous Great Wildebeest Migration. 

Officials described the Serengeti National Park Golf Course as a bold statement of innovation, positioning Tanzania as a rising hub for high - end, experience - driven tourism on the African continent.

Minsiter of Natural Resources and Tourism Dr Ashatu Kijaji who announced the development, described the project as a new chapter for the iconic park and a move that will redefine Tanzania’s position in global tourism.

TANAPA Conservation Commissioner Musa Nassoro Kuji said the combination of sporting excellence and wildlife encounters will make the course one of the most distinctive sporting destinations in the world.

Project Consultant Dr Richard Matolo highlighted the expected increase in tourism revenues, while District Commissioner Angelina Marco Lubela noted that the development will generate employment opportunities and create new economic pathways for local youth.

Link

https://atta.travel/resource/tanzania-plans-world-class-golf-course-on-edge-of-serengeti-national-park.html

Luxor, Egypt | Opening to the Public for the First Time the 18th Dynasty New Kimgdom Tombs Following Restoration

Egypt is opening 18th Dynasty New Kingdom Tombs in  Luxor’s An – Khokha Necropolis (West bank) to the public for the first time following restoration according to Sada El - Balad, a news website and satellite television channel headquartered in Giza.

The opening of these tombs is part of a project of the country’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities that continues to work on cultural heritage conservation and development of tourist sites.

The tombs belong to Amenhotep Rabuia from the time of Pharaoh Thutmose III (fifteenth century BC)  and his son Samut, from the reign of Thutmose IV (fourteenth century BC)  both high - ranking officials and they feature restored, vibrant, over 3.000 - year old wall paintings, along the tomb of Nakht, also from the reign of Thutmose IV,  which is now open to visitors.

The tombs belong to the New Kingdom and feature a “T” shaped structure, typical of the period, with room decorated with scenes of daily life and funerary rituals, reused in late periods, which led architectural modifications.

The tomb of  Amenthotep Rabuia, guardian of the god Amun at Karnak, stands out for its high -  quality decorations in a standard chapel layout for the period, consisting of a transverse hall (front) features beautiful, detailed paintings of agricultural life, including harvesting grain, storing it in granaries, breadmaking, potters at work and including a rare depiction of offerings to the fertility goddess Renenutet, who is depicted breastfeeding a royal child.

The tomb of Samut despite being left unfinished, is noted for its high - quality artwork, conventional T – shaped layout and unique scenes.

The facade includes two stelae flanking the entrance, with one showing Samut offering to the gods Ra - Harakhti and Maat, and the other depicting him and his wife, Raiay, offerings to Isis and Osiris.

The tomb is decorated with skilled wall paintings that include in the hall  banqueting scenes similar to other tombs. A detailed scene on the eastern wall shows the funeral procession on the Nile., featuring a mummy on a ship accompanied by rowers.

The walls also features scenes from the “Book of Gates” , a judgement scene with Ammit,  a scene of the “ tree goddess”, agricultural images includes the offering of cattle to Amun - Ra, and a scene featuring King Ramses II adoring Amun - Ra is present along with hymns to Mut and Ra - Harakhti.

The inner chamber contains a niche that houses four statues, including representations of Samut and his wife, Raiay.

The tomb of Nakht belongs to a Scribe and Astronomer of Amun named Nakht responsible for tracking celestial bodies at the Karnak temple, under Thuthmose IV.

This small tomb consisting of a, T - shaped plan with a small corridor and a decorated chapel with a niche for a statue is highlighted by vibrant, detailed wall paintings capturing daily life, music, agricultural and banquet scenes.

The tomb showcases exceptionally well - preserved colours ,and lively intimate scenes rather than strictly religious imagery. Key scenes depict wine production (grape harvesting), fishing and fowling, agricultural activities (harvesting wheat) and musicians performing at banquets.

Relevant highlights of the tomb are the “Tree Goddess” scene offering food and beverages and the painting of three ladies wearing perfume comes in their hair.

In this tomb an important restoration work was carried out, such as the replacement of protective glass, the improvement of ventilation and lighting, and the detailed cleaning aof the frescoes.

The works at the tombs included the restoration of wall paintings, the consolidation of architectural structures, the cleaning of surfaces, the repair of cracks and the recovery of original colours and details.

 In addition, wooden walkways, modern lighting, stairs, informative signage, rest areas and protective covers are being installed, along with information materials in Arabic and English.

This initiative is part of a project that not only seeks to preserve and showcase these relevant historical monuments, but also to improve the experience of tourists through the development of services and infrastructures.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/egipto-planea-abrir-por-primera-vez-al-turismo-dos-tumbas-del-imperio-nuevo-en-la-orilla-occidental-/

Athens, Greece | Considering Strict Limits on New Hotel Beds as Capacity Concerns Grow

Athens, Greece’s capital ans largest city is considering strict limits on new hotel beds and other tourist accommodation as capacity concerns grow, with Mayor Doukas warning that city risks becoming an over - saturated “giant hotel” . Following a freeze on short - term rentals in key areas, officials are now eyeing caps on hotel licenses in districts like Plaka to protect city authenticity, signalling a broader shift in how the Greek capital manages its tourism growth.

With over 8 million visitor last year, Athens is experiencing severe strain on infrastructure and rising housing costs for residents.

Over 35.000 hotel beds currently exist in the central Athens area, contributing to the perceived staturation and the issue was raised by Athens Mayor Haris Doukas and Athens - Attica & Argosaronic Hotel Association President Evgenios Vassilikos during the recent “This Athens Agora” event in the Greek capital, where both sides pointed to the need for a more structured approach to Athens’ carrying capacity.

The discussion marks a relevant shift beyond short –-term rentals, with potential restrictions now to hotels and other forms of tourist accommodation that are currently part of the debate.

Athens - Attica & Argosaronic Hotel Association President said that there is the necessity of a broader plan for Athens to determine how many beds the city can support, whether in hotels, short - term rentals or rooms to let, pointing to the need for a unified framework. 

Athens Mayor echoed the view, suggesting that limits could be introduced in areas already under pressure, including Kolonaki, an upscale, central Athens neighbourhood nestled on the southern slopes of Lycavbettus Hill and areas around the Acropolis, the ancient, iconic citadel located on a rocky outcrop above Athens, 2 km from Syntagma Square and 15 minutes walking from Plaka district. City officials also stressed the need for greater flexibility in implementing such measures at local level.

Athens Mayor added  that there is data by neighbourhood, yet, it’s not possible to take the necessary decision, highlighting the municipality’s limited authority to impoise preventive restrictions, adding that targeted measures such as freezing new licenses in saturated areas, should be considered as part of a wider urban planning strategy. 

Nowadays the Greek capital is not alone in reassessing tourism growth. Cities such as Barcelona have already introduced strict limits, including freezing new hotel licenses and planning to phase out short – term rentals in the coming years.

Athens is not alone in reassessing tourism growth. Cities such as Barcelona have already introduced strict limits, including freezing new hotel licenses and planning to phase out short - term rentals in the coming years.

Athens - Attica & Argosaronic Hotel Association President stated that perhaps Athens needs to adopt a similar approach, referring to international practices aimed at preserving urban functionality and quality of life.

Part of the discussion also focused on redirecting new tourism investment toward less developed areas, such as Votanikos, a neighbourhood located west - northwest of the city centre the area where lies the Agricultural University of Athens and its botanical gardens, as well as the Athinais entertainment center, and Eleonas, a central industrial neighbourhood bordered by the Kifisos River,  roughly 2 - 3 km west of Athens city centre, where large –-scale urban regeneration projects are underway. 

Officials highlighted that the goal is not to halt growth, but to manage it more effectively, balancing tourism development with the needs and the long - term sustainability of the destination.

At the same time, both city and industry representatives underlined that the appeal of Athens is closely tied to its authenticity.

Finally Athens Mayor said that if the city loses its identity, the tourism product will be degraded and the priority is to preserve the character of Athens as it continues to grow.

Link

https://news.gtp.gr/2026/04/23/athens-weighs-limits-on-hotel-beds-as-capacity-concerns-grow/

IHG Hotels & Resorts | Signed an Agreement to Open a 223 - Room Holiday Inn Express Hotel in Sapporo, Japan

IHG Hotels & Resorts, British multinational hospitality company based in Windsor, Berkshire, England, UK, has signed an agreement to open a 223 - room Holiday Inn Express in Sapporo,  vibrant capital of the mountainous northern island of Hokkaido, famous for its beer, winter sports, the iconic Sapporo Snow Festival with its intricate ice sculptures, beautiful parks and nature. 

The agreement to open the Holiday Inn Express Sapporo Susukino is in partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation Urban Development Co., Ltd., Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd., and The Sankei Building Co., Ltd., marking the brand's second property in Japan.

The signing marks IHG Hotels & Resorts’ first partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation Urban Development Co., Ltd., and The Sankei Building Co., Ltd.,and is part of a broader strategy of the compsny to expand its portfolio in East Asia key destinations.

The hotel currently undergoing extensive renovation, is scheduled to open in July 2026 in the vibrant Susukino entertainment and dining district, known for its several restaurants, bars, cafes, clubs, cinemas and karaoke parlours.

The hotel will be located within a 5 – minute walk from Susukino Subway Station and three - minute from Shiseikan Shogakkō - mae Streetcar Station, 1.7 kilometres from the bustling city centrre of Sapporo. offering an easy access to attractions auch as the Susukino Intersection, Ramen Alley and Tanukikoji Shopping Street.

The property will provide 203 comfortable rooms and will be the first Holiday Inn Express in Japan to feature the brand’s Generation 5 design. Planned facilities include the Express Café, a fitness centre, and a guest laundry. The hotel will provide a complimentary breakfast with every stay.

Holiday Inn Express Sapporo Susukino will join Holiday Inn Express, IHG Hotels & Resorts’ fastest - growing Essential brand, with 3.292 open hotels and 655 hotels in the pipeline globally.

The brand offers a consistent, upper - midscale experience providing essential, modern amenities for both business and leisure guests and features the Generation 5 design, which focuses on smart, flexible spaces and comfort.

IHG Hotels & Resorts operates 59 hotels across 10 brands in Japan and has 24 properties in the pipeline. The company has seven existing properties in Hokkaido and all IHG hotel opening in Japan in 2026 are conversions.

Links

https://www.ihgplc.com/en/news-and-media/news-releases/2026/ihg-signs-second-holiday-inn-express-in-japan

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141090.html

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts | | Expanded its U.S. Portfolio with the Opening of Three Dolce by Wyndham Hotels in Miami Beach, Palm Springs and Tarrytown

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, an American hospitality company known as one the largest franchisors in the world, founded in 1981 in Dallas, Texas and based in Parsippany, New Jersey has expanded its U.S. portfolio with the opening of three Dolce by Wyndham hotels in Miami Beach, Florida, Palm Springs, California, and Tarrytown in New York’s Hudson Valley, additions that expand the brand’s presence in national and regional travel destinations.

The three hotels are:

Dolce by Wyndham Miami Beach, Florida: The hotel is located in Miami Beach a south Florida city lin Miami - Dade County, connected by bridges to mainland Miami, a glamorous destination highlighted by white sand beaches, turquoise waters from North Shore Open Space Park,  past palm - lined Lummus Park to South Pointe Park.

Miami Beach is renowned for its emblematic South Beach, a vibrant cultural scene, an international cachet with celebrities and models and its iconic early 20th - century architecture in the Art Deco Historic district highlighted by pastel - coloured buildings especially along Ocean Drive.

The hotel is located at 1745 James Avenue in the heart of South Beach, near the Miami Beach Convention Center, Lincoln Road, and the Ocean. The property is a boutique hotel features 90 comfortable and stylish rooms with private balconies and curated works from photographer Greg Lotus, a signature Italian- restaurant, Ciao Nonna, a sun deck, a pool, social spaces, and easy access to local beaches, nighlife, and cultural attractions.

V Capri Palm Springs, a Dolce by Wyndham, Palm Springs, California: The property is located in Palm Springs,  a famed resort city in Southern California’s Coachella Valley, famous for its year - round sunshine, stunning desert landscapes, and iconic mid - century modern architecture, serving as a glamorous retreat for Hollywood stars and attracting visitors for outdoor adventures, relaxation, culture and events like Coachella.

This retro - chic, mid - century inspired hotel catering to travellers seeking an upscale artistic desert retreat,  is situated at 333 E Palm Canyon Drive, near the Moorten Botanical Garden and Mt. San Jacinto, offering easy access to the Palm Springs Convention Center and downtown. 

The property features over 140 guest rooms and suites, with private patios or balconies , many offering pool or San Jacinto Mountain views, dining at GiGi’s restaurant, resort - style pools, an adults - only poolside bar, a 24/7 fitness centre, and flexible gathering spaces.

Sleepy Hollow Hotel, a Dolce by Wyndham, Tarrytown, New York: The hotel is located in  Tarrytown, a village in the town Greenburgh in Westchester County, nestled in the Hudson Valley on the eastern bank of the Hudson River within the state of New York, approximately 30 minutes north of Midtown Manhattan in New York City, and is served by a stop on the Metro - North Hudson Line.

Tarrytown is known for its picturesque waterfront, vibrant downtown, and close ties to “The legend Sleepy Hollow”, a village highlighted by the historic Tarrytown Music Hall, scenic Kingsland Point Park with its lighthouse, and the Gothic Revival Lyndhurst Mansion.

The property set on 11 acres of landscaped grounds is situated at 455 S Broadway near the Hudson River, Kykuit, the Rockfeller Estate, and Lyndhourst Mansion, serving as a central hub for visiting the historic Sleepy Hollow area and major attractions in Westchester County.  

Sleepy Hollow Hotel, a Dolce by Wyndham feature over 240 spacious guest rooms, on - site dining at the Hudson Bistro, a lounge bar, an indoor pool, a 24/7 fitness centre, and over 30.000 square feet of meeting space, including one of the largest ballrooms in Westchester County.

The three properties join Dolce by Wyndham, an upper - upscale hotel brand specializing in meetings, conferences, and curated leisure experiences. Known for combining state - of - the art technology with inspiring, scenic locations, the brand features IACC - certificate meeting spaces, Nourishment Hubs, and premium amenities like spas, and golf courses, targeting both business and leisure travellers.

The  Dolce by Wyndham hotels are designed to provide access to local culture, attractions and history, and these openings are part of Wyndham’s strategy to expand its upscale and lifestyle portfolio in key travel markets.

Links

https://investor.wyndhamhotels.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/418/dolce-by-wyndham-expands-u-s-portfolio

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141060.html

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts | Officially Opened a New Luxury Hotel in Budapest, Hungary

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, a famous American multinational luxury hotel chain, owned by Marriott International, a successful brand known for its sophisticated design, exceptional service, and bespoke experiences, focusing on the refined traveller has officially opened a new luxury hotel in Budapest, Hungary’s capital,  standing on the banks of the Danube River and strategically located at the centre of the Pannonia Basin,  lying on ancient routes linking the hills of Transdanubia with the Great Hungarian Plain, a very popular and vibrant destination highlighted by a relevant cultural heritage, with its historic centre classified as a World Heritage Site due to its numerous notable monuments of classical architecture.

The St. Regis Budapest is located at Váci u, 34 in District V - Belváros - Lipóváros within easy walking distance of Las Vegas Casino Casino and Magyar Zsidó Múzeum és Levéltár, housed in the Klotild Palace, a 1904 Neo – Baroque building with Art Nouveau and Romanesque details, originally commissioned by Archduchess Maria Klotild of Saxe - Coburg and Gotha and designed by architects Flóris Korb and Kálman Giergl.

The palace, featuring a prominent position neat the Danube is a 48 - metres tower adorned with replicas of Archduke Joseph Karl’s crowne, is a protected UNESCO - listed site and was historically the ceremonial entrance to Pest for travellers crossing the Elisabeth Bridge.

The luxury property features 63 comfortable rooms and 39 suites, including the Klotild Tower Suite and a two - bedroom Presidential Suite spanning 169 metres with a private balcony overlooking the Danube, the Elizabeth Bridge, and the icoic Citadella.

Each room features a refreshment centre inspired by the traditional Hungarian tile stove, with design elements referencing Budapest’s Art Nouveau decorative techniques, and The St. Butler Service is a available to guests.

Interiors incorporate design elements inspired by the Danube River and Hungarian Baths, including ceramics, decorative tiles, bronze detailing, and ornamental motifs.

The hotel entrance features a staircase with sculptural ceramic elements, reflective surfaces, and a glass ceiling, all surrounded by floral bronze patterns and crown - shaped chandeliers.

The Passage, a gallery connecting the welcome area with meeting and event spaces, is inspired by Budapest’s literary café culture and features suspended mirrors, arched ceilings, and layered lighting.

The stylish and elegant St. Regis Bar includes sculptural alcoves and a bar counter with a glass mural depicting the orchestra at the Hungarian State Opera House. The bar offers a signature cocktail called The Crown Mary, referencing the origins of the Klotild Palace and The St. Regis New York’s creation of the famous Bloody Mary in 1934 and ocktails are developed by Head Mixologist Norbert Tengely.

The hotel also features 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant serves Japanese cuisine with a show kitchen and provide dining room, curated by Chef Thinus van der Westhuizen, Group Culinary Director of Ninety - Nine.

Klotild Patisserie offers Hungarian and French - Viennoiserie pastries and artisanal coffee, including a limited - edition blend, within a historic apothecary setting, while The Atrium hosts Afternoon Tea and Champagne Sabrage.

The hotel also features the St. Regis Spa that includes an indoor pool, traditional hammam, Finnish sauna, experience showers, and treatment rooms. The spa uses products from Sothys and Omorovicza and offers a Celebration Bar.

Event spaces at The St. Regis Budapest include the John Jacob Astor Boardroom, three salons, and the Caroline Salon.

The property joins St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, an iconic, top - tier luxury brand owned by Marriott International, founded in 1904 by John Jacob Astor IV in New York. Known for bespoke service, signature bultler service, and the Bloody Mary cocktail, it operates various luxury properties worldwide that blend classic sophistication with modern glamour, catering to discerning travellers.

Links

https://www.marriott.com/en-gb/hotels/budxr-the-st-regis-budapest/overview/

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141121.html

Zambia | Introducing Tourism as a School Subject to Address Hospitality Skills Gap

Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to tourism education and workforce development introducing tourism as a school subject to address hospitality skills gap, an initiative launched with the aim on equipping learners with practical industry skills and promoting entrepreneurship to support tourism growth.                                       

A high - level gathering as The Fourth Travel, Hospitality and Tourism Education Summit, held at the Mulungushi International Conference in Lusaka,  brought together Ministers of Education, Tourism, Labour, and Commerce alongside UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa Elcia Grandcourt, with discussions centred on aligning the national education system with industry demands.

The participation of four ministries at the summit undoubtedly reflects a coordinated, cross - government approach to tourism development, with skills development and inclusive economic growth identified as central pillar of Zambia’s long - term tourism strategy.

Tourism was officially linked to the 2023 Edcucation Curriculum Framework, offering a structured pathway for students, anf the new initiative aims to introduce tourism education early with plans to establish Tourism Education Clubs in both primary and secondary schools.

The curriculum aims to move beyond theoretical knowledge, offering practical skills to match industry demands, including collaboration with the Zambia Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Studies (ZITHS) to create a relevant workforce ready to address hospitality skills gap.

This initiative aims to prepare students for employment and entrepreneurship within the tourism sector, supporting the 8^th National Development Plan (8NDP) which highlights tourism as a key economic driver for the country.

In addition the Government is focusing on training teachers to effectively deliver the new subject, supported by industry partnerships for internships and mentorships.

Education Minister Douglas Syakjalima highlighted curriculum under the 2023 framework, including the introduction of Travel and Tourism as a standalone school subject, aimed at equipping learners with practical, industry - relevant skills while promoting Zambia’s cultural heritage.

Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba directed the establishment of tourism education clubs in schools and called for strengthened teacher training to support effective delivery, noting that the sector currently supports over 159.000 jobs across accommodation, transport, and related services.

The Minister also highlighted progress on the Mukumi International Academy for Tourism and Hospitality Studies, a flagship project developed in partnership with UN Tourism, which is expected to position the country as a regional hub for tourism education and professional training.

UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa Elcia Grandcourt commended Zambia’s leadership in prioritising tourism education, emphasising that strengthening the link between education system and industry needs is essential to building a resilient, competitive tourism sector across Africa.

Link

https://atta.travel/resource/zambia-introduces-tourism-as-school-subject-to-address-hospitality-skills-gap.html