Malta | Established a New Visitor Booking System to Protect Blue Lagoon's Environment on Comino Island

Malta Tourism Authority established a new visitor booking system to protect Blue's Lagoon environment, a natural wide pool with crystal clear waters located on Comino Island between the islands of Malta and Gozo, one of the most popular and beautiful places in the Maltese archipelago. 

Since 1st May 2025, the online free booking system has been actived that regulate the number of visitors who access the site to protect this extremely delicate ecosystem from overtourism, included in the European environmental protection network Natura 2000, made up of Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas designed under the Habitats and the Birds Directives respectively which includes both Terrestrial and Marine Protected Areas.

Malta Tourism Authority in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism of Malta, has launched this protection system as part of a wide - ranging initiative to implement the sustainability of this unique site and improve the visitor experience.

The booking system represent one of the first actions of a two-year project led by Team Blue Lagoon. This summer the first phase of the project will also include safer and more extensive bathing facilities, improved waste management, additional sanitary facilities and greater control throughout the area.

"Book, Protect, Enjoy" is the claim behind the new system, in which individuals or groups arriving by private or commercial vessel and wishing to disembark at the Blue Lagoon will have to book in advance using the free online system blulagooncomino.mt. which will instantly generate a unique QR code, to be presented to officials at coastal and land access points.

Visitors will be provided with a wristband, which will allow for the duration of the booked time slot.
Access without a valid reservation will not be allowed and violations may be subject to penalties.

In summer 2024, up to 12.000 visitors were registered at the same time at the Blue Lagoon, especially during peak hours. The new booking system, on the other hand, allows a maximum of 4.000 visitors in the same time slot.

 Link - https://www.visitmalta.com/en/info/blue-lagoon-visitor-booking-system/

Imvelo Safari Lodges | Launch of a New Exclusive Lodge in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Imvelo Safari Lodges, hospitality company and operator with its head office in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, offering special properties welcoming creature comforts combine with the luxury of exclusivity, remote places, small intimate camps, and authentic interactions with nature and local people launched the project of a new exclusive development named Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge in Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park expected to open late 2025, offering guests a unique tree - level safari experience.

The lodge will be located in Hwange National Park, the largest natural reserve in Zimbabwe established in 1928 situated in the northwest of the country, just off the main road between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, considered for inclusion in the five - nation Kavango - Zambezi Transfontier Consevation Area.

Hwange National Park is a biodiversity hotpsot, home to an astonishing variety of wildlife, a haven for over 100 mammals species, including the emblematic "Big Five" and nearly 500 bird species, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge will be located in a teak and camelthorn woodland in the park's southeastern region, and it will feature four raised treehouse tents built on wooden platforms, along with two grand - level rooms that can be configured as a family unit.

The treehouses will be developed in partnership with Nelson Treehouse, a Washington State - based design and build American firm that brings people together through the creation of exquisite, custom treehouse who were behind the reality show TV show "Treehouse Masters", narrating the story of Treehouse builder Pete Nelson and his team travel around the the United States of America to build some beautiful custom treehouses for their clients.

The team recently joined Imvelo Safari Lodges on site at Mandiseka located in Matabeleland North to begin planning the structures.

The aim is to build around existing trees using low – impact methods while offering guests elevated views of wildlife moving through the woodland below.

The lodge's design, wood and canvas structures topped with canvas roofs, will include ensuite bathrooms and private decks overlooking game - rich terrain. The two ground - floor rooms aim to accommodate families or guests preferring not to sleep around ground level.

The new six - room property will accommodate a maximum of 12 guests and will combine elevated tented accommodations with close - up wildlife encounters and community - based conservation activities.

At Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge guests can expect classic safari activities, including game drives, bush walks, similar to those offered at Invelo's four other Hwange properties such as Bomani, Camelthorn, Jozibanini and Nehimba.

About activities one of the great highlight will be guided rhino walks at nearby Mlevu Sanctuary, where white rhinos have been reintroduced onto community land, a conservation initiative that directly benefits local villages through tourism revenue. 

Tum Tum Treehouse continues Invelo Safari Lodges' model of integrating safari experiences with community engagement. Guests may also visit nearby communities by tourism income from lodges such as Camelthorn and Bonani. 

More details about exact opening dates and trade booking information are expected closer to launch.

Links

https://nelsontreehouse.com/blog/tum-tum-treehouse-lodge-building-a-safari-lodge/

https://www.travelweekly.com/Middle-East-Africa-Travel/Imvelo-treehouse-safari-lodge-opening-in-Zimbabwe?ct=afme

 

 

Parador de Molina de Aragón, Spain | Opening Scheduled on 14th May 2025

The Parador de Molina de Aragón, located in Molina de Aragón, a municipality and locality of the autonomous community of Castilla - La Mancha, and main economic centre of the Señorio de Molina - Alto Tajo region in the province of Guadalajara with several months of the delay over the initial forecasts, it was going to open on 5th September 2024 as published by the Hosteltur tourism news, renowned Spanish online platform will open its doors on 14th May 2025.

The development of this establishment located in the upper territory of the Castilian centre, facing the historic castle of Molina, involves the creation of about 35 direct jobs and it is the result of the commitment of the Government of José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, part of a plan aimed to reactivate the economy of the territory after the fire in 2005, a sad event in which 11 members of a forest checkpoint died and more than 13.000 hectares were burned.

The Parador de Molina de Aragón, a unique destination where modernity and history interwine is one of the nine Paradores located in Castilla - La Mancha integrated into the local landscape, thanks to its design material used and facing the majestic castle of Molina de Aragón, a 12th century walled fortress erected on the remains of a Moorish citadel.

The Parador, an impressive building with avant - garde design, a testament to the ability to combine history and modernity,  features 24 spacious and elegant rooms, including two stylish, luxury suites distributed over three floors, all them with spectacular view views of the castle. 

Each room has been designed to blend in with the surroundings, ensuring that the great medieval landscape is an integral and essential part of the stay offering guests a unique opprtunity to live and enjoy unique and memorable experiences.

The establishment offers a restaurant, a cafeteria with a menu focused on the traditional Castlla - La Mancha gastronomy, large terrace suitable for events, spacious common areas highlighted by artistic and vibrant colours take centre stage, turning every corner into a more than captivating living work of art.

Link - https://www.hosteltur.com/168857_el-parador-de-molina-de-aragon-abrira-al-publico-el-14-de-mayo.html

Aria Hotels | Added to its Growing Portfolio a New Boutique Hotel in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia

Aria Hotels, Libra Group’ s Greek - born hospitality subsidiary well known for its curated collection of boutique hotels and villas dedicated to authentic Greek hospitality highlighted by a stylish and captivating design, excellence in service and details, has added a new boutique hotel to its growing portfolio in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, marking the group's second property in Latin America.

Following the debut of the hotel Casa del Torno opened in December 2024 in Cartagena de Indias, the Greek group plans to open Aria Maria Hotel in 2027 in the same beautiful Colombian city, well known for its rich history, vibrant culture,  stunning Caribbean landscapes, greatly highlighted by the iconic UNESCO - listed Walled City founded in the 16th century, colourful, colonial architecture, picturesque cobblestone streets, suggestive squares, dominated by the imposing Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas on the hill of San Lázaro overlooking the captivating and sunny Rosario Islands.

 The hotel named Aria Maria will be housed in one of Cartagena de Indias’ most historic buildings, Casa España, located neat the Heredia Theatre, a short distance from the bustling Avenida Santander, Plaza de Santo Domingo, Monumento Torre del Reloj, Avenida Venezuela and the Convention Center, in a prime location offering an easy access to all the major attracions and landmarks of the Colombian city.

The restoration of the building will be focused to create a blend between the elements of the local architecture and contemporary comfort in a cultural respectful way, preserving the 18th century building’s architectural character while integrating modern hospitality standards. 

The property will reflect Aria Hotel’s strategy and philosophy to bring Greek hospitality, the traditional Hellenic spirit and the typical Mediterranean essence to global destinations while honouring the cultural heritage and identity of each location. 

Aria Maria will feature 35 comfortable rooms and will be a cultural hub for travellers looking for an authentic experience between confort, the lively atmosphere of Cartagena de India and its natural setting. 

The interiors will be Mediterranean inspired, while the on - site restaurant will incorporate elements of both Greek and Colombian cuisine.

 Amenities will include wellness and fitness facilities, a boutique shop and a rooftop terrace offering unique panoramic views of Cartagena de Indias and the Caribbean Sea.

 The hotel’s name, Aria Maria was inspired by a personal exchange between Libra Group President George Loghotedis and former Colombian President Iván Duque. During a visit to the Greek island of Spetses, the two discovered a shared childhood comnection to the Greek folk song “Maria me ta kitrina”, Maria Dressed in Yellow which became the inspiration behind the name.

Aria Hotels CEO Makis Pantzatos said that the future opening of Aria Maria, it’s like to reviving a significant part of Cartagena’s architectural history and a future invitation to live a unique experience through the prism of Greek hospitality characterized by authenticity and understated elegance.

Link - https://news.gtp.gr/2025/04/24/aria-hotels-expands-in-latin-america-with-aria-maria-in-cartagena/

Hyatt Hotels Corporation | Announced the Opening of Andaz Miami Beach, Brands's First Hotel in Florida, U.S.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the opening of Andaz Miami Beach, marking the Andaz brand's first hotel in Florida, U.S., following the establishment of the Hyatt Lifestyle Group.

This new entry in the large portfolio of the group headquartered in Chicago, Illinois represents a strategic and significant expansion of the brand's footprint in a very demanded and popular destination as Miami Beach, a vibrant coastal city connected by bridges to mainland Miami, famous for its glamorous beaches, art - deco architecture, lively nighlife, offering residents and visitors a unique blend of opportunities and experiences.

The new Andaz Miami Beach, by Hyatt is the result of a transformation of the previously known The Confidante Miami Beach, incorporating in the former property a Mediterranean influence into the design and offering and entering in Andaz luxury lifestyle brand that aims to create unique, locally inspired experiences.

Andaz hotels are designed to feel less like trational hotels and more like personal havens, well known for their imaginative interiors, fluid spaces, and a strong emphasis on local culture, providing a luxury experience without being overly formal or pretentious.

The property is located on Mid - Beach, close to the South Beach at 4041 Collins Avenue, a major tboroughfare known for its diverse shopping options, including Bal Harbour Shops for luxury brands and Lincoln Road Mall, diverse attractions, several dining options, iconic Art Deco architecture and a vibrant nighlife.

EoA group acclaimed firm based in Coral Gables, Florida, specializes in the design of hospitality and commercial spaces, a group believes in taking architecture and design to the edge exloring and unifying the boundaries of all design discipline in collaboration with Hyatt Lifestyle Group's in - house design team led the design efforts creating a space that embodies the grace, appeal and flow of the ocean in the beating heart of Miami Beach.

This upscale hotel is set in a 1940s Art Deco skycrape is owned by Sunstone Hotel Investors, a company based in Irvine, California, boasting well – located lodging properties in dynamic gateway and resort markets, features 287 rooms with a 1950s vibe, of which 64 are expansive suite, all offering stunning views of Miami skyline and the ocean.

The hotel has partnered with José Andrés Group, renowned operator of a group of restaurants and content production intended to span cuisines and cultures headquartered in Washington, DC to offer three distinct dining ecperiences, such as Aguasal and Bar Centro, while the third dining concept Bazaar by José Andrés, is set to open later in the year.

Amenities include two outdoor pools, a private beach area, a gym and meeting space while the spa and beach club of Andaz Miami Beach, by Hyatt are expected to welcome guests in the upcoming months.

Link - https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/miaob-andaz-miami-beach/gallery

Surf City 2, El Salvador | New Ambitious Development to Boost Tourism and Economic Growth in the Eastern Region

El Salvador, a Central American country, an emergent destination in the tourism international landscape, known for its natural beauty, particularly its numerous volcanoes, leading the nickname "Land of Volcanoes", a popular surfing destination due to its Pacific coastline, boasting a rich culture, including Mayan archaeological sites of relevance has taken another major step with an ambitious development plan with the launch of Surf City 2,  a project designed to boost tourism and economic growth in the eastern region. 

With an outstanding investment of US$41 million, the launch of Surf City 2 undoubtedly marks a milestone in the country’s ambitious tourism infrastructure strategy.

The president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele officially unveiled the new - 13.0 kilometres scenic road, which include a bike lane, modern lighting and breathtaking viepoints, a project that connects 11 beaches in the departments of San Miguel and Usulután, authentic hidden treasures in eastern El Salvador and where surfing is practised by several national and international enthusiasts.

According to the Salvadorean President this area has been declared a world surfing reserve, there are only 13 and this is one of them, recognized in 2024 b Save the Waves, an international non profit organization  that works with diverse entities dedicated to protecting surf ecosystems.

Part of the circuit is also Punta Mango, a mythical beach in the eastern part of the department of Usulután and along the scenic 13.0 kilometres of road there are hotels, restaurants and several viewpoints to increase the travellers experiences in this more than captivating territory of El Salvador.

The beaches along Surf City are absolutely stunning, ideal for all those who are looking for to see a beautiful sunset sitting on the seashore contemplating some of the best Pacific landscapes in Central America or to enjoy surfing and water sports.

Recently The President of El Salvador assured that betting on tourism is not a fad, it is a necessity for El Salvador that wants to grow and highlighting its beautiful beaches to attract tourists and generate development in the region.

This second stage of the Surf City project, which began on the beaches of El Zonte, El Tunco and La Libertad, will join other projects tha are being carried out in the east of the country, including the new Pacific Airport in La Union.

The President of El Salvador is sure that Surf City 2 will be a successful project and a great competitor for Surf City 1, considering that it is a great achievement to see these two locations challenging each other that instead of competing with other countries, boosting tourism and economic growth and increasing the tourism offering of El Salvador.

Link – https://dinero.com.sv/en/breaking_news/bukele-inaugurates-surf-city-2-in-the-east-of-the-country/

Athens, Greece | Rising in Europe's Hotel Investment Ranking According to CBRE's Latest Hotel Investor Intentions Survey

Athens, the capital of Greece has climbed in the 2025 hotel investment rankings, according to CBRE, the Global Commercial Real Estate Services and Investments, latest Hotel Investor Survey.  

In the latest rankings the Greek city moved up to eighth place among the most attractive cities in Europe for hotel investment, reflecting a relevant increased interest in Athens's expanding high - end hospitality sector and also strong tourism fundamentals.

CBRE's research report was conducted in Q4 2024 among 110 stakeholders, capturing key investor sentiment and strategic priorities and it noted that Athens is steady rise in international demand reinforcing its appeal as an emerging investment destination. 

Among European cities London and Madrid lead investor preferences, followed by Rome in third position, Paris slips to fourth, while Lisbon and Barcelona are fitfth and sixth respectively. 

Berlin and Brussels move up to share eight place in the ranking alongside Athens which climbed one position from 2024.

With this climb, investor confidence remain high with over 90% of respondents planning to maintain or including increase hotel investment in 2025 and a significant majority intend to maintain or expand their hotel investments, reflecting continued confidence in the tourism sector in the Greek city.

Developers, operators and real estate funds are particularly active, focusing on value - add strategies such as operational improvements and re – positioning over higher risk plays.

Upper - upscale and luxury properties continue to dominate interest, as segments favoured for their pricing power, sustained demand from high – net – worth travellers and resilience.

Also full - service hotels are in the top preferences, though limited - service options but they are gaining ground due to their leaner cost structures.

Extended stay format is notably increasing, while the interest in all - inclusive resorts remained mute, despite their strong post - pandemic performance and appeal.

 In the European landscape concerning countries, Spain retains the top position in the ranking, second is Italy, which edged ahead of the United Kingdom to take second place, Portugal and France complete the top five.

Greece maintains its strong fifth place ranking thanks to solid tourism performances and a flourishing tourism segment which continues to increase reinforcing its position and reputation as an appealing rising luxury tourism hub, and these results reaffirm the investor confidence in both Athens and the Hellenic Republic.

Other studies reflect that CDB locations and gateway cities continue for different reasons to attract the most attention of investors, though interest in secondary cities and resort markets is particularly growing, partly due to shifting travel patterns, and concern about the phenomen of overtourism.

Finally CBRE notes that European Investor Survey led in 2025 was conducted prior to the heightened geopolitical development in the first quarter of this year, which may have a greater impact on investments dynamics than initially anticipated. 

Link - https://news.gtp.gr/2025/04/22/cbre-report-athens-rises-in-europes-hotel-investment-rankings-greece-holds-steady/