Eurostars Hotel Company | Announced its Entry into the Dominican Republic with a 5 - Star Hotel in Samaná

Eurostars Hotel Company, a very dynamic hotel chain founded in 2005 and headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, part of the business units of the tourist company Grupo Hotusa, the leading Spanish chain in terms of number of hotels, characterized by the motto “Leading hospitality”, and a great know how in all areas that include hotel management and care in the guest experience, announced its entry into the Republic Dominican with a five - star hotel in the idyllic Samaná.

The hotel is the Eurostars Grannd Cayacoa situated in the heart of Samaná, secluded, paradisiacal escape well knows for its idyllic,wild beaches, rainforests, coconut plantations, rolling mountains and valleys form the crystalline rivers, located on a stunning peninsula overlooking a stupendous bay in northeastern Dominican Republic,one of the tourist poles of the Caribbean island, also known as one of the breeding places of the humpback whale.

This emblematic hotel, which had been closed for more than a year, generating uncertainty in the local tourism sector, will be operated under the Eurostars Hotels brand from the last quarter of 2025 of a lease basis and with strategic commitment to the high - end segment joining more than 30 five - star hotels already managed by the chain around the world, consolidating its position in the premium category also in the Caribbean region.

The incorporation of this hotel represents a major step in the international expansion of Eurostars Hotel Company with the arrival in a new destination boasting a very high demand as the Dominican Republic, with the clear commitment to expanding its presence in the Caribbean, where the group has 12 establishments, and this incorporation wil help to strengthen the offer in the high - end holiday segment of the company.

Likewise Eurostars Hotel Company supports the country’s government’s clear commitment to promoting the Samaná destination and maintaining the Dominican Republic as a strategic market in the region. 

Eurostars Grand Cayacoa will offer an unparalleled experience thanks to its unique and privileged location with stunning views of the sensational bay of Samaná, considered one of the wonders of the Caribbean and for its offers of exclusive services.

The property will feature 295 welcoming rooms equipped with all the comforts, a varied dining offer that will include international options and traditional Dominican specialties, a state - of - the - art spa with treatments designed for relaxation and two swimming pools intengrated into a natural environment, an exclusive access to a private beach and personalized service that guarantee an unforgettable stay living memorable experiences.

The President of Grupo Hotusa, Amancio López said that the landing in the Dominican Republic is a key milestone for the company’s expansion strategy, not only because it allows the group to expand into one of the most important tourism markets in the Caribbean, but also because it reinforces the presence in the high -  end vacation segment. 

Eurostars Hotel Company is proud that this emblematic hotel will become part of its portfolio confident that this project will be a key to consolidate the group in an internationally renowned Caribbean destination.

Link -   https://www.expreso.info/index.php/noticias/hoteles/105508_eurostars_hotel_company_anuncia_su_entrada_en_republica_dominicana

Minor Hotels | Announced the Opening of the Luxury Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel in Vilanova de Gaia, Porto, Portugal

Minor Hotels, an international hotel owner, operator and investor founded in 1978 and headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand, boasting a diverse spectrum of brands to the desires of today's global travellers operating a notable portfolio of establishments across six continents announced the opening of the luxury Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel, in Vilanova de Gaia, Porto, Portugal.

The hotel promises an unparalleled blend of modern luxury and historic charm offering guests a unique experience conveying a deep connection to the Portuguese culture reflected in the property's name and aesthetic.

The establishment is incorporated in Tivoli Hotels & Resorts brand, founded in 1933 and one of the main hotel chains in Portugal, known for its blend of classic elegance and unique location - specific atmosphere, offering premium service, comfort, taste, a relaxing atmosphere and distinctive experiences.

The property is located in Vila Nova de Gaia is a lively municipality in Porto District, situated south of the second city of Portugal on the other side of the Douro River highlighted by the scenic riverside road Cais de Gaia, with its café terraces, the old fishing village of Afurada serving great grilled fish and seafood and its beautiful beaches among them, the beautiful Praia da Madalena.

This Portguese municipality in addition os internationally known for one thing - port, in fact this is where all the Porto wine in the world originates, and has done since the 17th century.

The hotel is nestled in the heart of of Gaia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at Rua do Bãrao de Forrester, 69 on the south bank of Douro River within walking distance of popular tourist attractions of Porto such as the beautiful medieval district of Ribeira, highlighted by its scenic square and Porto Cathedral, one of the city's oldest monuments located in the Batalha district, next to the walls that once protected the city.  

Built from the restoration of a 18th -century building hosting the old Kopke cellars, one of Portugal's oldest Porto wine houses, the hotel spread across a property of 20.000 square metres, arranged on terraces resembling the Douro vineyards, with stunning, panoramic views of the city of Porto, the Douro River and the emblematic Luis I Bridge.

Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel is subdivided in three distinct areas such as Tawny, White and Vintage organized around a refurbished Kopke port wine cellar that is part of the of the property of the building, highlighted by the presence of dozens of barrels where more than two million litres of Porto wine are aging.

The cellar will soon be open to guests, inviting them to an immersive experience with very distinctive events including unique Porto wine tastings.

The hotel  features 84 welcoming, well equipped rooms and suites, each offering spectacular views of Porto cityscape and the Douro River, the stylish design balances classic elegance and modern comfort, featuring high - quality materials like Portuguese marble and fine wood.

The establishment boasts two exquisite dining options such as Vinum Lounge & Terrace and Restaurante & Wine Bar 1638, the first offers an extensive wine list featuring some of Porto and Portugal's finest wines while the second, led by the renowned Spanish chef Nacho Manzano,serves traditional Portuguese cuisine with a contemporary twist.

The Elements Spa by Banyan Tree offers guests a range of wellness facilities including five treatment rooms, massage services, steam boath, sauna, a hydrodynamic pool with phototherapy for pure relaxation and a fitness centre.

The hotel's leisure facilities include one outdoor heated swimming pool, 9.000 square metres of outdoor gardens including an area with aromatic herbs for chef's use and an entrance to an old, restored pedestrian route called "Caminho Romântico" the romantic path, giving direct access to Luis I Bridge and Gaia's riverside promenade. 

Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel is committed in sustainability, and as initiatives it has implemented eco-  friendly practices such as energy - efficient lighting, waste management systems and water - saving measures.

Link - https://media.minorhotels.com/en-GLO/247790-unveiling-the-brand-new-tivoli-kopke-porto-gaia-hotel-the-hidden-gem-on-the-hillside-of-gaia-overloo

Baja California Sur, Mexico | Recognized Among the 10 Hospitable Regions in the World for 2025

Baja California Sur, a state in northwest Mexico located on the Baja Baja California Peninsula bounded to the north of the state of Baja California, to the east by the Sea of Cortez and to the west by the Pacific Ocean was recognized among the 10 hospitable regions in the world  at the 2025 Traveller Review Awards in Booking.com., a prestigious award that that increase image and visibility in the travel and tourism international scene. 

The 13th annual Booking.Com Traveller Review Awards is based in more than 360 million review from verified customers and highlights partners who consistently and exceptionally delivered hospitality and service.

Based on the the proportion of properties that receive a Traveller Review Award, in a given city or region, the list of the most hospitable places is drawn up.

Booking.com, one of the world’s leading digital travel companies, founded in 1996 and headquartered in Amsterdam, famous platform for booking accommodations and other unique places to stay as well as car rentals and attractions recognized Baja California Sur as a top hospitable region, a prestigious award that undoubtedly increases the image and visibility of the destination in the travel and tourism international scene.

The Mexican state shares this relevant accolade with Drenthe, northern province of the Netherlands, Madeira, archipelago in the Atlantic and autonomous region of Portugal and Britanny, famed France’s northwesternmost region, hilly peninsula extending out towards the Atlantic Ocean.

Baja California Sur stands out for its rich culture, the charming streets of its magical towns, dreamy beaches and a vibrant gastronomic scene, which positions the region as the ideal destination for all type of travellers.

This Mexican destination is also highlighted by its great colonial architecture, medieval hideaways, incredible natural wonders, suggestive coffee plantations, jungle villages and other several tourist spots bewitching a multitude of visitors, showing attractiveness in different forms showcasing a unique charm and characterized by the warm hospitality of its inhabitants.

Some of the great highlights of Baja California Sur are the endless sunsets at the twin resorts Los Cabos and Cabo San Lucas, both well known for their beautiful beaches,  the vibrant nighlife at El Arco rock arch, the stunning, baroque and colonial architecture of San José del Cabo, the biodiverse Sea of Cortez and Isla Espiritu Santo, a paradise for diving and snorkeling lovers among others.

The irrresitible appeal of Baja California Sur is also highlighted by breathtaking whale and dolphins encounters, prehistoric cave paintings, exquisite food and fine wines always ready to satisfy the most exigent palates.

The state is a very versatile destination that offers several options to live and enjoy authentic experiences, very suitable for all type of travellers offering a large variety of opportunities in many segments and niches.

Cultural tourism, rural tourism, adventure tourism, eco - tourism, surfing, water sports, gastronomic tours, trekking, hiking are part of a long list of tourist activities visitors can enjoy, a land that in addition boasts a mild climate all year round and an excellent air connectivity.

The platform booking.com  highlighted the Mexican state as a land boasting a rich culture, captivating magical towns, a vibrant gastronomic scene, dreamy beaches, dramatic landscapes which position the region as an ideal destination for several travellers looking for authentic and memorable experiences.

Link -  https://www.expreso.info/noticias/internacional/105039_baja_california_sur_entre_las_10_regiones_mas_hospitalarias_del_mundo

The United States | Expectation to Receive 77.1 Million International Visitors This Year According to Data Provided by NTTO

NTTO, the United States, National Travel and Tourism Office, the official USG source for travel and tourism statistics and works to create a positive climate for travel, predicts an estimated 77.1 million international travellers will visit the the country this year, with a 6.5% increase to compared to 2024 according to a new data released on 10th March 2025, providing a year - by - year look at data recorded from 2019 and forecasts through 2029.

It is expected that by 2025 the source markets are expected to grow and they will include Brazil, Canada and Mexico, however the U.S. Travel Association warns that tariffs on Canada, which have prompted the country to ban the sale of certain U.S. products and promote a boycott of U.S. tourism, could be lifted this year.

Between 2023 and 2024, international visitors increased by 9.1%, with 72.4 million travellers visitng the U.S. and this year, the pre – pandemic of 79.4 million visitors is not expected to be reached due to the country took much longer to recover from the pandemic than European countries and much of the world.

An additional note revealed that source markets or travellers from some specific countries have been visiting the U.S. more than before the pandemic period, such as India and Italy, which have grown 552% since 2020 and 7.5% last year, respectively.

Other countries such as Australia, China, Japan, South Korea and the United Kingdom will take longer, with full recovery projected in 2027 or later.

NTTO also made predictions for years to come providing estimations for 2026 with 85.0 millions visitors, an increase due to major global events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, that will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with strong flows of international visitors to attendee to this big event. 

90.1 million visitors is the estimation by 2027, thus the meeting the five - year target set by the 2022 National Travel and Tourism Strategy.

In 2028 U.S. will host in Los Angeles, California the Olympic and Paralympic Games, with a further increase of the total number of tourists visiting the country to assist to these relevant sport events.

By 2029, the United States of America is expected to welcome nearly 97.0 millions travellers, highlighting the long - term growth and recovery of the of the tourism sector, with in addition, an estimation that 90.0 million visitors would spend $279 billion in the United States.

Link -  https://www.expreso.info/noticias/internacional/105647_este_ano_estados_unidos_recibira_mas_de_77m_de_turistas

Italy | Rome and Milan Lead the Country’s Travel Inbound According to Mabrian and The Data Appeal Company Analysis

Leading company Mabrian Technologies, established in 2013 specialises in the provision of travel intelligence services at a worldwide level, merged into Almaviva Group in 2023 and the Data Appeal Company, both part of Almaware, renowned ecosystem and leader on the market of technological solutions location, led a study with an analysis on Italy, revealing that the cities of Rome and Milan lead the country’s travel inbound.

The two companies analysed the evolution of tourism in the Italian Peninsula for the beginning of 2025, highlighting connectivity key markets, travel trends, and the country’s strong visitor sentiment and they have published a joint analysis of international travel demand for Italy for the first half of 2025.

Leveraging Mabrian’s search engagement rate and Data Appeal’s accommodation sentiment and pricing data the study provides a comprehensive perspective of evolving traveller preferences, emerging trends, and market confidence in Italy’s key destinations.

Mabrian’s analysis of travel intent, base on Search Engagement Index, analyses search trends at Italy’s top 20 airports in the first period of 2025, accounting for 89% of total inbound travel demand, and reveals that Italy remains one of the most sought - after destinations in Southern Europe and in the Mediterranean basin. accounts for 27% of total international travel demand next to Spain, 33% and Greece, 8%. 

Rome, the “Eternal City” capital of the Lazio region and of the country and Milan, second largest city of Italy ad capital of Lombardy region, global hub of fashion and design continue to dominate demand for inbound travel, capturing a combined 61% of all international flights searches by early 2025.

Rome, alone has seen a year - on - year increase of 4.4% percentage points now accounting for 33% of total demand, while Milan has grown 2.9 percentage points to reach 28%.

Venice, the “Serenissima” , the romantic and historic capital city of Veneto region, is the third most sought – after Italian destination, now accounts for 6.7%, of the country’s total international travel demand. 

In addition to these major destinations, urban cultural centres such as Florence and Turin also seeing an increase in search demand, reinforcing the trend for travellers to prioritize city’s experiences in low and mid – season.

By contrasts seasonal destinations such as Bari, Brindisi, Naples, Sardinia and Sicily show a temporary decline for early 2025, although is expected to pick up as summer approaches.

For reference, Mabrian’s report, “Where is the World Headed in 2025 ? “ highlights Rome, Italy, with a demand that is expected to continue to rise, driven by the 2025 Jubilee Year, followed by Madrid, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal, elevated as the three world’s fastest - growing urban destinations for the first period of 2025.

According to The Data Appeal Company’s analysis, Italy sentiment index remains one the highest in Europe, Italy satisfaction rating based on traveller and online reviews remains exceptionally high, at 87/100, above Spain, 86/100 and France, 85/100. 

 Concerning major Italian urban destinations in this analysis Florence, Rome, Turin and Venice maintain stable scores of 87 - 88/100, while Milan follows closely behind with a score of 85/100.

The CEO and Founder of The Data Appeal Company Mirko Lalli explained that these high sentiment rating indicate that overtourism has not significantly affected the visitor experience, highlighting Italy’s effective destination management and sustainable tourism practices.

Link -  https://www.expreso.info/noticias/internacional/105644_roma_y_milan_lideran_el_auge_de_los_viajes_en_italia

Belize | Great Development in the Tourism Sector Showcasing All its Beauty with a Large Offering of Unique Tourist Products

Belize, a country on the eastern coast of Central America with Caribbean Sea shorelines to the east and and a dense jungle to the west, a destination offering stunning attractions such as a stupendous barrier reef dotted with numerous cays, pristine beaches, rainforests, Mayan ruins, boasting a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes is experiencing a great development in the tourism industry showcasing all its beauty with a large offering of unique tourist products.

A lot of excellent things are happening in Belize's tourism sector, with infrastructure improvements, unique opportunities to new developments, luxury hotels and resorts openings, launch of tours offering unforgettable trips, combining history, nature and gastronomy, a large fan of very captivating proposals for diving, snorkeling and water sports, all them offering exclusive experiences.

Belize is also building on the momentum of last year's record overnight stays, with even more promising prospects for 2025 and the Central American country hopes to attract new travellers to discover the charm of its entire territory. 

This tropical paradise, a true treasure facing the Caribbean is also undergoing important improvements to enhance the overall visitor experience, expanding transportation options, such as golf carts in tourist areas, the country is rolling out new ferry services, investing in improving its network of roads and increasing in air connectivity. 

To get to Belize from the main cities of Latin America, Copa Airlines offers flights from Panama, where the Tucumen International Airport, the hub of Americas is located is located, and for all those travelling from the United States, excellent are the connections via Miami and Dallas with flights operate by American Airlines, via Houston with United Airlines and from Atlanta with Delta Airlines.

All these changes and improvements are essentially intended to make it easier to get around and make exploring the country's landcapes more accessible, allowing tourists to spend more time on experiences and less time on travel.

 All that will make it possible to visit incredible attractions as enjoying guided excursions visiting the iconic Mayan archaeological sites and other outdoor activities such as bird watching or hiking on spectacular trails across the virgin Belize's rainforests among others.

Belize's hospitality industry is on the rise, and one of the most relevant developments is the opening of several luxury resorts along the stunning Belize's 290 kilometres of Caribbeaan coastline with in addition the upgrading of facilities of many properties such as the famed Royal Belize, a beautiful 7.5 acre island resort managed by Muy'Ono situated about 14.5 kilometres off the central coast of Belize providing a new infinity pool.

Belize hotels are well known to offer comfort, excellence in service, designed to satisfy the most demanding  enquiries, they stand out to provide a variety of experiences and very versatile as the famous Hopkins Bay Resort, situated near the Garifuna village of Hopkins in the Stann Creek District.

 This establishment is  a perfect accommodation for couples, families, group of friends, offering unique activities such as pier fishing, bird and wildlife watching, ghost crab hunting and more making the stay a great and unforgettable, authentic experience and adventure for all ages. 

Four Seasons Resort and Residence in Caye Chapel is a further great option, described as a "A community of barefoot luxury", set on a private island, just an eight - minute flight or 30 - minute boar ride from the mainland 

This exclusive resort with its privileged location next to the second largest coral reef in the world, providing a superb blend of sport and nature in a very sophisticated setting offers a unique experience by combining a top - level golf course and water sports.

 Many establishments are focusing on sustainability, ensuring an even more comfortable environmentally friendly stay enjoying the incomparable landscapes and also savour gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients , tasting a cuisine more than delicious with in addtion  relax in outstanding spas that use natural and local products.

For all those who love adventures, Sweet Songs Jungle Lodge,  premier eco – lodge in Cayo District, nestled along the banks of the Macal River in San Ignacio, offering exciting options such as spending an adrenaline – filled day at Excalibur Adventure, which include climbing, ziplining, rappelling and cave hiking or explore the magical Crystal Cave and a further, authentic experience is hiking through Pine Ridge Forest Preserve, a paradise of pristine nature bewitching a multitude of visitors.

For new adventures and experiences, Belize is also expanding offerings with the introduction of new eco-  tours that include guided jungle walks, scuba diving, and scuba diving on colourful coral reefs, including the iconic Great Blue Hole, the country's symbol and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 In addition travellers can combine diverse activities and cultural experiences that help them connect with the rich heritage of local communities through the new Maya Creating Civilization exhibition, a must - see for history enthusiasts discovering the roots of one of the most emblematic civilizations in the Americas.

A further cultural destination of relevance is the Museum of Belize, a very innovative exhibition that delves into the legacy of the Maya world highlighting its profound contributions in their main activities such as architecture, agricultures and astronomy.

Another attraction is the Belize Museum of Art, an exhibition which pays tribute to creativity and artistic heritage, displaying a collection of traditional nd contemporary works, showcasing Bdlize's lifestyle, music and natural beauty through landscapes, painting, portraits and wood carvings.

Belizean cuisine is great, able to satisfy the most demanding palates with its great blend of many cultures and traditions, such as Mayan, British, Creole, African, Spanish, Indigenous and Caribbean, well known for its bold seafood, fresh fish, stews, seasonings, with highlight to national dish the bile - up and other traditional dishes such the delicious Pibil Tacos,  Rice and Beans, Hudut and Pupusas among others.

Many restaurants now offer special dining experiences that highlight the typical flavours of the country using spices, cocoa, green plantains, cassava, coconut, sweet potatoes and fresh fruit among others and for who is planning a trip to Belize in 2025 and is a food lover many are the culinary events and gastronomic festivals in this Central American country.

Belize is a destination that offers experiences for every type of traveller, a unique place to enjoy beautiful beaches to stunning cays, archaeological sites, stupendous waterfalls, vibrant markets and virgin rainforests, this Central American country is always ready to welcome everyone plenty of options and showcasing with all its charm, unique, memorable and authentic experiences.

 Link - https://www.expreso.info/index.php/noticias/internacional/104864_belice_se_reinventa_durante_este_2025

South Africa | New Digital Business Visa System to Boost Economic Growth Launch

South Africa, a country on the southernmost point tip of Africa continent, boasting a more than captivating territory marked by several ecosystems, with 2.798 kilometrs of coastline that stretches along the South Atlantic and Indian Ocean packed by pristine beaches. a land highlighted by a vibrant culture, a dramatic scenery with various landscapes, unforgettable and unique wildlife encounters and endless sunsets, offering a different range of tourism atttractions from safaris in Kruger National Park to the great city of Cape Town and the stunning Garden Route,well known for its great food and fine wines launched a new digital business Visa System to boost economic growth.

DTIC, the Department of Trade. Industry, and Competition in charge to envision a dynamic, industrial and globally competitive economy, that is inclusive, offering decent employment and equity, has introduced the VRS, a new digital platform accurately designed to streamline business visa for foreign investors.

This new, innovative and efficient system replaces the previous email - based application process, allowing business owners to manage, submit and track their applications online, improving, accessibility, efficiency, transparency and saving time in the operations. 

Acting Deputy Director - General Yunus Hoosen highlighted that this new platform will eliminate incomplete applications, enhancing investment - related data collection, and reinforcing in an optimal way South Africa’s commitment to facilitating a business - friendly environment.

This relevant initiative is part of a strategic plan implemented to create a more modern and innovative system aligns with broader efforts to attract international investment and boost economic growth.

Simplifying visa procedures is part of South Africa’s strategy to draw more business travellers and investors, complementing its goal of of reaching 15 million visitors by 2030. 

 In addition alongside the relaxed visa regime a firther new is  the launch and implementation  of TTOS, the Trusted Operators Scheme introduced by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs, designed to simplify and accelerate visa applications for travellers from key markets such as China and India who book their trips through accredited tour operators.

 This initiative is  part of the government’s broader effort to position tourism as a relevant key contributor making the country a more attractive destination for both business and leisure tourism boosting economic growth and job creation. 

Link - https://atta.travel/resource/south-africa-launches-new-digital-business-visa-system-to-boost-economic-growth.html