Singita Management Company Ltd | Set to Open an Ultra - Luxury Lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta

Singita Management Company Ltd, a luxury ecotourism and conservation brand based in Cape Town, South Africa which operate private, exclusive lodges and camps across southern Africa is set to open an ultra - luxury lodge in Botswana's Okavango Delta, located in northern Botswana, the world’s largest inland delta, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, characterized by a unique, pristine ecosystem formed where the Okavango River drains into the Kalahari Desert.

Singita Elela lodge expected to open to open in December 2026, marks the brand’s first property in Botswana, located in the 170.000 - hectare Abu Concession in the north - western Okavango Delta, will offer exclusive access to one of Africa’s most ecologically rich and biodiverse region.

The lodge features 8 individualized retreats (five 1 - bedroom, two 2 - bedroom, one - 4 bedroom) featuring private lounges, kitchenettes, private heated plunge pools, and expansive decks with firepits.

Designed to mimic the Delta’s “flow” each suite features a private vehicle, guide, tracker, and a dedicated host to customize the safari experience. 

Amenities and services at Singita Elela include a specialized wellness space, a fitness area, private in -  room wellness treatments, private dining room and a personal chef at the four - bedroom camp. Activities at Singita Elela include boating, Mokoro trips, bush walks, game drives, fishing, helicopter flips, and specialized stargazing.  

The lodge is positioned to deliver a highly exclusive safari offering while supporting conservation and community initiatives within the Okavango Delta ecosystem.

The development reflects a broader trend toward low - impact, high - value tourism in remote wilderness area, personalized guiding and a unique immersive wildlife experience in one of the most attractive Botswana's destinations.

Link

https://atta.travel/resource/singita-to-open-ultra-luxury-elela-lodge-in-botswana-s-okavango-delta.html

IHG Hotels & Resorts | Signed a Management Agreement for the Development of a 150 - Room Holiday Inn Resort in Alwar, India

IHG Hotels & Resorts, British multinational hospitality based in Windsor, Berkshire, England, UK, has signed a management agreement with Yash Hotels & Resorts LLP for the development off a 150 - room Holiday Inn Resort in Alwar, a historic city in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan within the Aravalli range.

Alwar is renowned as “tiger gateway” featuring the Sariska Tiger Reserve, the haunted Bhangarh Fort, and the commanding Bala Qila, showcasing a blend of Rajputana and Islamic architecture including other attractions like the City Palace and Siliserh Lake, while offering famous culinary specialties such as Alwar milk cake and Alwar Machchi.

The development of Holiday Inn Resort Alwar, scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2030 will mark IHG Hotels & Resorts entry into Alwar, a popular tourism hub highlighted by forts, lakes, nature reserves and heritage havelis. 

The agreement aligns with IHG Hotels & Resorts’ strategy to expand across high - potential leisure and emerging destinations in India.

The resort is located against the backdrop of the Aravalli hills, a mountain range in north - western India, running approximately 670 km in  south - west direction, strategically positioned to serve guests from Delhi NCR and Jaipur, as well as visitors to the iconic Sariska Tiger Reserve.  

The property is designed to cater to weddings, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), as well as leisure demand in Alwar.

Holiday Inn Resort Alwar will feature 203 comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, and dedicated meeting and event spaces, targeting leisure stays, social celebrations, and corporate gatherings.

The resort will join the Holiday Inn Resort brand, a group of properties that are family - friendly, full - service destinations offering “Kids Stay & Eat Free” (for children 11 and under) .They feature relaxed vacation – oriented amenities, including swimming pools, on - site dining, and entertainment, situated in popular locations like beachsides or mountain retreats.

IHG Hotels & Resorts currently operates more than 50 hotels in India, including Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn Exporess, Holiday Inn Resort, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, Six Senses, and voco Hotels, with a pipeline of 89 hotels expected to open in the next three to five years.

Links

https://www.ihgplc.com/en/news-and-media/news-releases/2026/ihg-strengthens-its-resort-offering-in-india-with-signing-of-holiday-inn-resort-alwar

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141129.html

Omni Hotels & Resorts | Started the Development of a 143 - Room Hotel in Midland, Texas, U.S.

Omni Hotels & Resorts, American hospitality company founded in 1958 and headquartered in Dallas, Texas, a group focuses to create genuine, authentic guest experiences boasting a portfolio of hotels and resorts in leading business gateway and leisure destinations across North America started the development of a 148 - room hotel in Midland, known as “The Tall City”,  a vibrant city in Western Texas, seat of Midland County, part of the Permian Basin area, located halfway between Dallas and El Paso on I - 20.

Midland is a relevant energy centre, featuring a strong oil and natural gas production, a high per capita GDP, and also notable attractions like the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum, Museum of the Southwest, Centenniasl Park, I - 20 Wildlile Preserve, Sibley Nature Center, and the George W. Bush Childhood Home.

Omni Hotels & Resorts and Midland Downtown Renaissance, LP, a collaborative partnership of Midland - based companies, investors, and foundations, have begun construction of the Omni Midland Hotel following a groundbreaking ceremony.

The property is planned to open in late 2027 and will be the twelfth Omni Hotels & Resorts property in Texas, located at 300 West Texas Avenue,  within walking distance of the George H.W. Bush Convention Center and Centennial Park.

The project involves several design partners like HKS Architects, an award - winning global architecture, interior design, planning and advisory firm based in Dallas, serving as the architect for the hotel, while Looney & Associates, an interior design firm specializing in projects for the hospitality industry with offfices in Dallas, Chicago and Honolulu is responsible for the interiors.

The DesignAgency, an international design consultancy with its flagship headquarters located in Toronto, Canada, and additional studios in Los Angeles, California, Washington, D.C, U.S., and Barcelona, Spain, specializing in interior design, architectural concepting, and strategic branding has been engaged to design the hotel’s restaurant and bar.

The Omni Midland Hotel will feature 143 rooms, including a presidential suite. Dining options at the hotel will consist of three venues: a lobby bar, a coffee shop serving breakfast and lunch, and Bob’s Steak & Chop House.

Amenities will include a rooftop pool deck and a full - service spa with a sauna, steam room, hot tub, cold plunge, locker rooms, relaxation lounge, and treatment rooms for individuals and couples.

The property will offer approximately 16.000 square feet of meeting and event spaces, including a 5.640 - square - foot ballroom. Additional meeting facilities will include an executive boardroom with park views and an outdoor terrace connected to the function space.

An 800 - space parking garage will be constructed to serve both hotel guests and Convention Center attendees.

Links

https://www.omnihotels.com/media-center/recent-news/2026/04/02/16/08/omni-hotels-resorts-holds-groundbreaking-ceremony-of-new-143-room-luxury-hotel-in-midland-texas#

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140691.html

Indonesia | Set an Ambitious Target to Achieve Energy Self - Sufficiency by 2029

Indonesia has set an ambitious target to achieve energy self - sufficiency by 2029 though a series of large --scale reforms in its energy sector. 

The Asian country focuses on maximizing domestic resources and reducing imports. Key features include a massive 100 - gigawatt (GW) electrification program, aggressive biofuel expansion (B50), decommissioning 13 diesel power plants, which consume large volumes of fuel and accelerating renewable energy sources like geothermal, solar, and bioenergy. 

 Initiatives also include the conversion of palm oil and used cooking oil into aviation fuel, as well as the production of biodiesel and bioethanol to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

In addition, the Indonesian government is promoting electric vehicles and expanding the use of renewable energy sources. 

Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto said that the country’s goal is energy self - sufficiency by the end of 2029 at the latest, If possible sooner, and working quickly. 

Earlier the President had announced plans to halt all fuel imports within two to three years, stopping up efforts to strengthen energy independence.

Key Features of the 2029 Energy Self – Sufficiency Plan: 

•    100 GW Electrification Program: Rapid expansion of domestic power generation capacity. 
•    Fuel Import Phase - Out: Halting fuel imports within two to three years. 
•    Biofuel Acceleration (B50): A national rollout of B50 (50% palm – based biodiesel) by 2026, with plans to expand to B60, aimed at ending diesel imports. 
•    Bioenergy Expansion: Utilizing agricultural products such as cassava, palm oil, sugarcane, and corn for ethanol and other alternative fuel production. 
•    Renewable Energy Development: Utilizing Indonesia’s vast geothermal, hydro, solar, and ocean energy potential. 
•    Decommissioning Fossil Fuel Plants: Phased shutdown of 13 diesel power stations operated by PLN. 
•    Electric Vehicle (EV) Growth: Promotion of electric vehicles to reduce oil demand. 

The strategy emphasizes utilizing natural resources and agricultural commodities to enhance energy security, reduce dependency on global oil price volatility, and support long - term economic growth. 

 With these measures, Indonesia seeks to ensure its energy sovereignty and reduce its exposure to global geopolitical tensions. 

Link 
https://tvbrics.com/es/news/indonesia-apunta-a-la-autosuficiencia-energ-tica-para-2029/

Zimbabwe | Tourism Receipts Rose 14% in Q1 2026

Zimbabwe’s tourism sector has performed very well in the first quarter of 2026, with tourism receipts rose 14% to US$251 million from US$221 million and international arrivals rising 11%, to 384.561, marking one of the strongest posts - pandemic recoveries for a key foreign currency earner, reflecting continued momentum in the country’s tourism growth.

Driven by regional African arrivals (75% of total) particularly from Mozambique, South Africa, and Mauritius with Asian and European markets that also saw growth, and a 35% surge in domestic trips indicating strong local demand, the industry saw massive investment growth, despite a 12% drop in March arrivals due to high fuel costs.

This relevant rise in Q1 2026 has been attributed to increasing international arrivals, stronger regional travel demand, diversification of the offer, government ongoing efforts, targeted strategies based on promotion and aggressive campaigns to position Zimbabwe as a verry competitive destination in the African continent.

Nowadays tourism sector remains a key contributor to Zimbabwe’s economy, supported by investment in tourism infrastructure, destination marketing and improved connectivity.

Officials continue to position tourism as a strategic pillar for economic development under the country’s Vision 2030 agenda, with growing focus on sustainability, hospitality investment and exapanding the country’s appeal across leisure, culture and nature - based tourism segments.

Link

https://atta.travel/resource/zimbabwe-tourism-receipts-rise-14-in-first-quarter-of-2026.html

China | Created over 80 New Colours of Rapeseed Flowers Designed to Boost Rural Tourism

A research team at Jiangxi Agricultural University located in the northern suburbs on Nanchang, the capital city of Jiangxi province, China, situated in the hinterland of Poyang Lake Plain, bounded on the west by the Jiuling Mountains, and on the east by Poyang Lake has created over 80 new colours of rapeseed flowers, expanding beyond traditional to include shades designed to boost rural tourism. 

These engineered flowers are being cultivated in over 300 scenic areas across 233 Chinese counties to revitalize rural economies and combat tourist “aesthetic fatigue”, creating with these new rapeseed varieties with innovative colours more attractive fields.  

Through hybridization, backcrossing, and self - pollination, the researchers achieved unprecedented combinations, Among the new colours are “deep pink red”, “tiger striped orange”, “metallic purple”, “lavender purple”, and “glutinous rice red”, all colours vwith more intense tones and better ornamental qualities. 

Future projects include other colours such as blue and black, expanding the potential of rapeseed in agricultural tourism and also home gardening. 

Key Details on the Development: 

•    Colour Range and Variety: The new varieties offer diverse colours, enhancing the visual appeal of farmland. 
•    Development Process: The team used hybridization, backcrossing, and self – pollination, sometimes screening up to 150.000 plants monthly to select the best traits.
•    Tourism Impact: Demonstratins show high visitor interest, and the initiative aims to promote sustainable rural development through scenic agricultural, also known as “agritourism”.

 This 12 - year research effort creates the most comprehensive coloured rapeseed germplasm resource in China, improving both the scenery and potential for agricultural income. 

A researcher at Jiangxi Agricultural University, Fu Donghui, explained that this year the team developed five new colours, expanding the palette from 75 to 80. Most rapeseed flowers are yellow, which can cause aesthetic fatigue in tourist and the new colours seek to maintain the attractiveness of the fields and support the sustainable growth of the industry. 

Rapeseed tourism has grown in regions such as Hangzhong, Shaanxi, Jingzhou, Hubei, Luoping, Yunnan and Wuyuan, Jiangxi. The new varieties have been tested at more than 10 rural tourist sites and the team collaborates with more than scenic areas in 233 counties to promote their cultivation. 

Beyond rapeseed colours, researchers have developed fragrant oversized blooms, larger jasmine - scented flowers, dwarf potting plants, as well as lines with colourful leaves and stems have developed. This to stabilise the new colours, improve yield and resistance, and transform rapeseed and other specimens into outstanding ornamental plants without losing their agricultural value.  

Link
https://tvbrics.com/es/news/china-desarrolla-80-variedades-de-colza-con-nuevos-colores-para-potenciar-el-turismo-rural/

Egypt | Launched Africa’s First Sustainable Medical Tourism Label Programme

Egypt launched Africa’s first Sustainable Medical Tourism Label Programme in May 2026, spearheaded by the Egyptian Organization for Standardization and Quality (EOS) and the African Organization for Standardization (ARSO). 

The initiative set regional standards for high - quality, sustainable, and eco - friendly medical services to boost trust and competitiveness in medical tourism across the continent while reinforcing Egypt’s ambition to position itself as a leading medical tourist destination. 

The certification process will be overseen by EOS’s Certification Unit for Operations and Services as an independent body, assessing compliances with African standards aligned with instrumental medical tourism specifications. 

Key Features and Objectives of the Programme: 

•    Sustainability and Standards: The label focuses on integrating environmental and social responsibility into medical institutions and spas, ensuring compliance with international quality standards. 
•    Independent Certification: The EOS Certification Unit for Operations and Services evaluates medical institutions, ensuring they meet African and international standards for patient safety and sustainability. 
•    Regional Credibility: By establishing the “African Sustainable Medical Tourism Label,”the initiative seeks to increase the trust of international insurance companies and medical tourism organizers in African healthcare providers. 
•    Digital Integration: This initiative works alongside the “We Care for You in Egypt” platform, a digital multilingual system launched for scheduling telehealth, and medical logistics for international patients. 
•    Support for Strategy 2030: The programme is a core component of Egypt’s National Health Tourism strategy 2030, which aims to leverage the country’s medical, wellness, and tourist assets to become a premier medical hub.
•    Institutional Benefits: Participating organizations gain access to regional marketing platforms, optimized resource usage, improved operational efficiency, and increased access to international funding.  

The label promotes a comprehensive, high - quality and sustainable medical travel experience, combining advanced healthcare with Egypt’s existing tourist attractions. 

According to EOS head Dr Khaled Soufy, the program goes beyond certification by seeking to build an integrated support system for medical institutions and spas, helping them improve competitiveness in global markets.

Officials said the label is expected to improve institutions’ access to regional and international markets, enhance operartional efficiency, strengthen credibility with insurers and medical tourism organisers, support alignment with Egypt’s Vision 2030 includes the Sustainable Development Goals of the country. 

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/egypt-launches-africa-s-first-sustainable-medical-tourism-label-programme.html

Brazil | Released $7 Million to Restore Degraded Areas of the Atlantic Forest

Brazil National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) has released $7 million for the restoration of degraded areas of the “Mata Atlântica”, the Atlantic Forest in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

The Atlantic Forest in Rio de Janeiro is a critical biodiversity hotspot, hosting immense richness despite only 12% of its original cover remaining. The  “Mata Atlântica” second only to the Amazon in biodiversity features coastal territories, lowland, montane rainforests, 20.000 plant species, an immense endemism, providing vital water services and habitat for endangered species like the golden lion tamarin, jaguars and various primates, with key protected areas like Tijuca National Park, Serra dos Órgãos, and the REGUA reserve.

The project is part of the Brazil National Bank for Economic and Social Development Florestal strategy, which brings together financial and technical instruments aimed at promoting ecological restoration and the forest bioeconomy in the country.

The $7 million for the restoration of degraded areas of the forest is an operation linked to a total financing of approximately $26.7 million, previously approved with resources from the Climate Fund linked to the Ministry of the Environment as reported by the news portal Brasil 247, a Brazilian news and political analysis website headquartered in São Paulo.

The resources will be applied in an ecological recovery project aimed at the recomposition of native vegetation and the strengthening of the regional bioeconomy.

The initiative foresees the recovery of 15.000 hectares in the North of Rio de Janeiro, covering areas of permanent preservation, legal reserves, and other spaces, in compliance with environmental legislation.

With the exclusive use of native species, the actions seek to recompose the vegetation cover, reconnect forest fragments and favour the return of wildlife. The project also incorporates soil conservation and water management practices, such as erosion control, increased organic matter, and improved water infiltration.

In addition to the environmental benefits, the project foresees the generation of more than 600 direct and indirect jobs, involving activities such as seed collection, seeding production and forest maintenance. 

The initiative also includes training actions and promotion of local entrepreneurship, with s focus on social inclusion and income generation.

Between 2023 and 2025, this strategy mobilized about $1.228 with the potential to make it possible to plant 280 million trees, generate 70.000 jobs and capture 54 million tons of carbon.

President of Brazil National Bank for Economic and Social Development Aloizio Mercadante, said that with this initiative, Brazil demonstrates that is possible to restore the planet and develop the green economy.

BNDES head added that the Atlantic Forest is one of the richest, and, at the same time, most degraded biomes in Brazil, which is why supporting recovery projects, it is essential to protect biodiversity, face extreme weather events and generate employment and income in the territories.

Link

https://tvbrics.com/es/news/brasil-destina-7-millones-de-d-lares-para-restaurar-bosque-tropical/

Minor Hotels | To Manage Two Resorts in Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, Thailand

Minor Hotels, an international operator, investor and owner in the hospitality industry founded in 1978 and based in Bangkok, Thailand has signed agreements with Rasa Group, a Bangkok - based hospitality company, that owns and operates hotels and resorts to manage two resorts in Koh Samui, marking the debut of the Colbert Collection brand  in Asia and on Koh Phangan, establishing a new Avani property, expanding its presence in Thailand.

The Colbert Collection Koh Samui – The property is located in Koho Samui, 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.

The 32 - key beachfront resort, transitioned to Minor Hotels management on May 1, 2026 with a rebranding to Colbert Collection Koh Samui planned for the first quarter quarter of 2027, following an extensive renovation and wll become the first property under the Colbert Collection in Asia, following the recent announcement of The WestDill Mayfair Hotel London,   Colbert Collection.

The resort is situated on Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui’s most popular destination, in an area offers a 7km stretch of fine white sand, turquoise waters and a bustling nightlife, about 15 minutes from Samui International Airport. The establishment will offer 32 comfortable guest rooms, multiple dining options, a swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a spa.

The property will join other other Minor Hotels on Koh Samui, including Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, Avani Chaweng Samui Hotel & Beach Club, Avani + Samui Resort, and NH Collection Samui Peace Resort.

The resort will be part of the Colbert Collection, a new premium “soft brand” by Minor Hotels launched in 2026, featuring independent, unique, luxury properties allowing them to join a global  network while retaining their individual identities.

The brand is built on “the art of gathering”, “the art of place,” and “the art of taste,”emphasizing social connection, local heritage, and curated high - end dining experiences.

Avani Koh Phangan - This 63 - key beachfront resort is located on Koh Phangan, a stunning island in Thailand’s Gulf of Siam, famous for its monthly. 30.000 - person Full Moon Party at Haad Rin Beach. Beyond nightlife, Koh Phangan offers serene white sand beaches, lush jungles, hiking, and premier diving at Sail Rock and it is also a hub for yoga, wellness, and sustainable organic farming.

 The resort is located adjacent to Anantara Rasamanda Koh Phangan Villas  on Thong Nai Pan Noi, a picturesque, upscale, and tranquil crescent - shaped beach on Koh Phangan’s northern coast, known for its fine white sand, clear turquoise waters, and lush mountainous surroundings, offering a sophisticated yet laid - back vibe with high - end resorts, cozy beachfront dining, and easy access to a charming village, making it perfect for couples and families. 

 The property will feature various room categories, including pool - access and oceanfront options, as well as dining venues, a beachfront swimming pool, an AvaniKids club, and an AvaniFit gym.

 The resort that operated as Buri Rasa Village Phangan transitioned to Minor Hotels’ management on May 1, 2026, with a full rebrand to Avani planned for the first quarter of 2027 following a phased renovation.

 The establishment joins Avani Resorts & Hotels portfolio, becoming part of an upscale stylish brand launched by Minor Hotels in 2011, focused on offering a balance of comfort and style for guests, particularly for whose who appreciate good design and value and representing a very performing brand in a market in continuous growth.

Both properties are owned by Rasa Group and the partnership between Minor Hotels and Rasa Group also includes Anantara Koh Phangan Villas. The new signings expand the collaboration and resort portfolio between the two companies in key Thailand destinations

Links

https://media.minorhotels.com/en-GLO/264702-minor-hotels-signs-first-colbert-collection-in-asia-and-new-avani-resort-in-koh-phangan/

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141096.html

IHG Hotels & Resorts | Signed Management Agreements to Operate Two New Holiday Inn - Branded Properties in Aswan, Egypt

IHG Hotels & Resorts, British multinational hospitality company headquartered in Windsor, England Berkshire, UK, has signed management agreements with Misr Holanda and Avenue for Development, a real estate developer and hospitality based in Mostafa El - Messeidi, Egypt to operate two new Holiday Inn branded properties in Aswan, a historic city on the Nile River, has been southern Egypt’s strategic and commercial gateway since antiquity.

Aswan is a serene, sun - drenched city renowned as the ancient fronter town of Nubia and a major winter tourist destination. Located on the Nile River, it is famous for its granite quarries, stunning river landscapes with felucca boats and rich Nubian culture, highlighted by several attractions include the Philae Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk and the Nubian Museum.

The agreements will introduce Holiday Inn Aswan and Holiday Inn Resort New Aswan marking the brand’s entry into the city and expanding IHG Hotels & Resorts in the North African country.

 Details about the two new Holiday Inn branded properties:

Holiday Inn Aswan: The property will be located near the city centre of Aswan and major attractions. Scheduled to open in 2029 the hotel will feature 200 comfortable rooms, three dining options and meeting spaces across five venues.

The hotel will join the Holiday Inn brand, a well known, full - service brand focused on family - friendly and business travel. These properties  designed to offer a reliable, comfortable experience include the “Open Lobby” concept, on = site restaurants, swimming pools, 24 - hour fitness centres, and meeting spaces.

Holiday Inn Resort New Aswan: The resort will be situated in the newly developed area of New Aswan, a modern fourth - generation urban area featuring a 6 - km waterfront park, a 3.000 - seat open - air theatre, and a tourist walkway with bike tracks and commercial shops.The property is planned to open in 2030 and will feature 200 keys and various amenities.

The resort will join the Holiday Inn Resort brand, a group of properties that are family - friendly, full - service destinations offering “Kids Stay & Eat Free” (for children 11 and under) . They feature relaxed vacation - oriented amenities, including swimming pools, on - site dining, and entertainment, situated in popular locations like beachsides or mountain retreats.

IHG Hotels & Resorts currently operates 10 hotels in Egypt under the Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, InterContinental, Staybridge Suites, and voco Hotels brands. Tin addition the company has a pipeline of 23 hotels scheduled to open in the North African country in the coming years.

Links

https://www.ihgplc.com/en/news-and-media/news-releases/2026/ihg-accelerates-growth-in-egypt-with-dual-holiday-inn-signing-and-marks-entry-into-the-city-of-aswan

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141130.html

Hilton | Unveiled the Future Opening of a 800 - Room Signia by Hilton Hotel in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc., American multinational hospitality company based in Tysons, Virginia has unveiled the future opening of a 800 - room Signia by Hilton hotel in Indianapolis, capital city of the U.S. state of Indiana and the county seat of Marion county, situated in a plain along the west fork of the White River.

Indianapolis is a vibrant Midwestern hub known as the “Racing Capital of the World,”featuring the iconic Indianapolis 500 and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, also famous for the extensive White River State Park with its canal walks, the world’s largest children’s museum, and a rich collection of monuments second only to Washington D.C.

The Signia by Hilton Indianapolis, a new - built hotel, is located along the Georgia Street pedestrian promenade connected to the Indiana Convention Center in the Wholesale District, a highly walkable, historic hub in downtown Indianapolis, known for its dense concentration of 19th  century architecture, vibrant nightlife, top - tier dining, and major entertainment attractions, as well as home to ,  Circle Centre Mall, and the iconic Artsgarden and offering an easy access to Lucas Oil Stadium and Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Owned by the City of Indianapolis and operated by the Capital Improvement Board of Managers of Marion County, the establishment is now accepting reservations for stays beginning February, 1 2027. The hotel  will be the tallest hotel in the city and will serve as the newest headquarters hotel for the Indiana Convention Center with direct skywalk access.

The hotel design is by RATIO Design, an interdisciplinary architectural and design firm based in Indianapolis, known for creating community – focused, sustainable, and high – impact environments, with interiors by Rottet Studio Architecture and Design, a WBE - certified international architectural and design firm headquartered in Houston, Texas, known for creating luxurious, light – filled spaces that merge modernism with nature.

The property will feature 800 comfortable rooms, including 70 suites ranging from 450 to 1.900 square feet.

Dining options at the hotel will include seven concepts: a lobby bar, an all - day restaurant, a 28th - floor bar and lounge, a signature restaurant, rooftop poolside dining, a market café, in - room dining, and Club Sirena, which offers access to a private lounge with made - up - to order dishes and a full bar.

Amenities will include a rooftop pool, firness guest rooms, and a wellness and fitness centre featuring recovery technology and a fitness environment.

The hotel will also feature a museum - quality public art collection curated by Art Strategies, and 100.000 square feet of meeting and event space across 42 rooms, including Indiana’s largest ballroom at 50.000 square feet, divisible into 12 sections.

Additional venues include two ballrooms of 16.000 and 9.000 square feet, and a 7.500 square - foot outdoor event deck. 

The property will join Signia by Hilton brand offering 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.

Links

https://stories.hilton.com/releases/signia-by-hilton-indianapolis-now-accepting-reservations-for-february-2027

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article141036.html

Bahir Dar, Ethiopia | Attracting Major Tourism Investment with the Development of a Four Points by Sheraton Hotel and the Opening of Felege Ghion Eco Resort

Bahir Dar, the capital city of the Ahmara region in northern Ethiopia, an active port on the south shore of the huge inland Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, a centre known for its wide, palm - lined avenues and vibrant culture, serving as a major tourist hub for exploring ancient island monasteries like Ura Kidane Mehret, the impressive Blue Nile Falls, and diverse birdlife is attracting major tourism investment with the development of a Four Points by Sheraton hotel and the opening of Fedege Ghion Eco Resort launch.

Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh launched the Four Points by Sheraton Tana Hotel project in Bahir Dar on 4 May, 2026, signalling a significant push to position the city as a leading tourism destination in the region.

The hotel will arise on the site of the former Tana Hotel, developed by MIDROC Investment Group (MIG), the largest private business entity in Ethiopia, serving as a cornerstone of the national economy and a pivotal component of the global MIDROC International group owned by Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Ali Al - Amoudion the site of the former Tana Hotel.

The 3.3 billion birr project will span 32.400 square metres and will include 120 rooms, four international restaurants, a conference hall for over 1.000 guests, and leisure facilities.

The property is expected to be completed within 18 months and will join Four Points by Sheraton, a Marriott international brand focused on “honest uncomplicated comfort” for business and leisure travellers. Key features include stylish, functional rooms, reliable free Wi - Fi, the signature Best Brews®craft beer program, and approachable service in a casual, modern environment.

At the same event Deputy Prime Minister also inaugurated the Felege Ghion Eco Resort, located on the scenic southern shores of Lake Tana, a project highlights the vital role of private investment in elevating Ethiopia as a world class destination.

Developed under the government’s Gebeta Le Hagger Initiative the eco - resort includes entertainment facilities, retail spaces, an amphitheatre, and riverfront infrastructure.

​The dual launch form part of a broader government strategy to develop tourism as a strategic economic sector, with Bahir Dar’s location at the confluence of Lake Tana and the Blue Nile central to its growing appeal, aiming to create a leading destination  in the region and attracting further major tourism investment.

MIDROC Investment Group CEO Jamal Ahmed cited an improving investment climate as a key driver of private - sctor engagement, while the Deputy Prime Minister urged investors who have already secured land in Bahir Dar to begin implementation without delay.

Link

https://atta.travel/resource/ethiopia-s-bahir-dar-attracts-major-tourism-investment-with-sheraton-hotel-launch.html

Manantiales Serranos, Uruguay | Officially Designated by UNESCO as a New Global Geopark

On April 23, 2026, UNESCO officially designated Manantiales Serranos, a vast protected area in the Lavalleja department of southeast Uruguay as a new new Global Geopark. This designation representing a milestone for the South American country highlights over 500 million years of geological history, featuring ancient mountain range, metamorphic rocks, and vital water springs, boosting local sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.

The distinction also implies its classification as a geological and heritage site of scientific, historical and cultural relevance with international projection. The designation also represents a strategic opportunity for the country’s tourism development. In particular, it promotes the diversification of the offer through experiences linked to geotourism, aimed at an increasingly aware visitor profile, interested in nature, environmental education and respect for the territories.

In this framework, the recognition strengthens public conservation policies and promotes responsible hetitage management models, alitgned with the principles of sustainable development.

The Manantiales Serranos geopark covers more than 2.000 square kilometres in Lavalleja department in southeast Uruguay, characterized by a rugged countryside, granite hills, caves and rivers.

The geopark includes key areas such as the city of Minas, the municipality of Solís de Mataojo, Villa Serrana, Salus Park and the Aguas Blancas area. Its territory is defined by ancient mountain ranges, rocky outcrops and valleys, with over 80% composed of metamorphic and igneous rocks,with in addition critical aquifer systems and natural springs. 

The Manantiales Serranos geopark offers geotourism, hiking, rural tourism, adventure activities like ziplining and climbing as well as educational experiences and nowadays recognized by UNESCO as a new global geopark it becomes a key conservation area, providing visitors opportunities for learning and experiencing natural, 500 - million - year old landscapes.

Lavalleja Government said that this international recognition puts Uruguay on the global map of sustainable tourism and highlights what makes this territory unique: its geological wealth, its landscape, its culture and, above all its people. Geoparks are not just places to visit, they are spaces where science, education, and responsible tourism meet, where the geological past of the territory, because a concrete opportunity for development for those who inhabit it today.

Link

https://www.elobservador.com.uy/cafe-y-negocios/un-hito-el-turismo-uruguay-unesco-aprobo-la-designacion-manantiales-serranos-como-nuevo-geoparque-mundial-n6040861