Ghana | Launched a New Public - Private Partnership Department to Drive Sustainable Growth in the Country's Tourism Industry

Ghana, a country in West Africa adjacent to the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic Ocean, through GTA, the Ghanian Tourism Authority has launched  a new Public - Private - Partnership Department to foster deeper collaboration between government and the tourism sector.

The initiative aims to drive sustainable growth in the country's tourism industry and is expected to boost investment, improve infrastructure, and promote Ghana as a leading cultural and tourist destination in West Africa.

GTA CEO, Maame Efua Houdjeto, speaking at the launch of this initiative in the capital of the country, Accra, described this move a relevant, strategic step towards aligning tourism policy, investment, and sustainable development considering it a pivotal moment in Ghana's tourism journey.

Grounded in Section 42 of the Tourism Act 2011, the new department will serve as an operative platform for co - planning and co - investing and co - implementation in projects that promote and highlight Ghana's tourism potential.

CEO of Ghana Tourism Authority emphasised the importance of sustainable tourism and green energy solutions and in addition the need to preserve the country's natural and cultural heritage while using tourism as a tool for community development and job creation.

A further theme was highlighted concerning the role of ethical tourism, urging both public and private partners to prioritise child protection and responsible practices.

Appointed as Director of the new established Public - Private - Partnership Department is Jones Aruna Nelson, who reaffirmed the GTA's commitment to transformative initiatives such as the Black Star Experience, with emphasis on cultural promotion, eco - tourism and innovation.

The Diretor stated that the new department would help to attract world - class ecpertise and financial resources, allowing for smoother policy alignment, better infrastructure, and destination marketing.. 

The launch of the department also introduced the new Director of Corporate Affairs, Bright Asempa Tsadidey, who pledged to drive Ghana's global tourism image through stronger communications and stakeholder engagement.

The move has been welcomed by the private sector, with the GHATOF, the Ghana Tourism Federation pledging its full support to strengthen Ghana's appeal and attractiveness as a competitive destination through joint action and investment.

The President of the Ghana Tourism Federation, Charles Gyamfi said that the initiative represents a strong signal of Ghana's commitment to collective progress adding that the role of the private sector in tourism from hotels and transport to arts and events could not be ignored and no single institution could unlock the full potential of tourism in Ghana.

The President, then urged the leadership of thr new PPP Department to lead with openess and accountability.

Link - https://allafrica.com/stories/202505130273.html

IHG Hotels & Resorts | Announced Major Luxury and Lifestyle Hotel Developments and Rebranding in Australia

IHG Hotels & Resorts, British multinational hospitality company headquartered in Windsor, Berkshire, England, UK, announced a major luxury and lifestyle hotel developments and rebranding in Australia. 

The company is set to expand its presence in a very demanded destination as Australia, through a long-term agreement with Salter Brothers, leading alternative investment manager with focus on special property, equities and credit based in Melbourne.

The established partnership will transform several high-profile hotels of the group with also the return the Regent Hotels & Resorts to Australia after a 28 - year absence, a luxury hotel brand founded in 1970 focuses on modern, upper - luxury experiences, aiming to create destinations in key gateway cities and resorts areas worldwide characterized by a history of innovation and exceptional service. 

Concerning the operation of transformation, the InterContinental Melbourbe will be rebranded as Regent Melbourne, marking Regent Hotels & Resorts' return to Australia, a rebranding expected to be completed by 2030. 

Well – consolidated properties will be joining the luxury InterContinental brand such as the Crowne Plaza Sydney Coogee Beach, which will be repositioned as InterContinental Sydney Cogee Beach, Crowne Plaza Melbourne, which will become InterContinental Melbourne and the Crowne Plaza Canberra site will be redevelped into InterContinental Canberra.

In addition a new hotel, Hotel Indigo, will be developed, bringing this global boutique hotel brand that delivers a refreshing and inviting guest experience to Canberra for the first time. 

voco Gold Coast is another collaboration between IHG Hotels & Resorts and Salter Brothers, the hotel will also undergo refurbishment and expansion of its leisure facilities. This property is part of a performing, luxury brand, known for its premium guest experience and commitment to sustainability.

These developments indicate a very significant investment in the luxury and lifestyle segment of Australia's hotel market, valued at over $1.0 billion, a project that aims to reposition key assets, unlock long-term value and deliver immersive luxury and lifestyle experiences to guests.

IHG Hotels & Resorts operates 76 hotels in Australasia under nine brands, with another 26 properties in its development pipeline, numbers that confirm the strong presence of the British group in a relevant market. 

This new agreement with Salter Brothers reflects the growing trend for conversions in the hotel industry and highlights the evolving nature of Australia's hotel market.

 Link - https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article136580.html

Miraval Resorts & Spa | Announced the Future Launch of Exclusive Beach Residences on Shura Island, Saudi Arabia

Miraval Resorts & Spa, a hospitality group offers luxurious, all inclusive wellness retreats that focus on transformative experiences, part of the Hyatt portfolio,announced the future launch of Miraval The Red Residences on Shura Island , also known as Shurayrah, an inhabited island facing the Red Sea coast of Tabuk province in Saudi Arabia. 

This new development, set to open in late 2025 in collaboration with Red Sea Global, real estate development company based in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, will feature twenty exclusive beach villas on Shura Island, the main island with a natural dolphin shape, off the Red Sea Project, a tourism megaproject that is being constructed on a 92 - island archipelago off the Red Sea coast. 

This future opening marks the brand's first venture into residential offerings outside the United States of America.

The Red Sea Residences are part of a broader effort of The Red Sea project, a significant tourism development initiative by Saudi Arabia to create a premier leisure destination while enhancing the natural environment and to promote regenerative tourism.  

The project spans 10.800 square miles and includes a diverse natural landscape of coastline, islands, and ecological reserves. The development is strategically positioned to attract international visitors, facilitated by access through the dedicated Red Sea International Airport. 

Each villa at Miraval The Red Sea Residences will offer one to four bedrooms, with sizes up to over 5.000 square feet,  homes accurately designed to integrate holistic living with a focus on well - being, featuring private swimming pools, spacious living areas, and expansive terraces.

 Foster +Partners, British international architecture firm with its headquarters in London leads the architectural design, while the Rockwell Group, an award - winning interdisciplinary architecture and design based in New York, U.S. crafts the interiors, emphasizing a connection to the natural surroundings through their design and materials.

Villas' residents will have access to dedicated services to provide comfort andz privacy. This includes personalized itineraries and wellbeing activities that incorporate local culture and heritage. 

The broader resort will also feature a Life in Balance Spa, the largest on the island, spanning 40.000 square feet with 39 treatment rooms.

Links 
https://www.miravalresorts.com/miraval-the-red-sea
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article136754.html

Radisson Hotel Group | Added to its Radisson Collection Brand a New Stylish Hotel in Lyon, France

Radisson Hotel Group, multinational hospitality company headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, added to its Radisson Collection brand a new stylish hotel in Lyon, the capital city in France' Auvergne - Rhône  -Alpes region located at the confluence of the rivers Rhône and Saône, to the Northwest French Alps, a centre recognised for its cuisine, historical and architectural landmarks such as the Old Lyon, the Presqu 'île, the Fourvière hill and the slopes of the Croix - Rousse inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Cours des Loges Lyon, A Radisson Collection Hotel is situated at 6 Rue du Boeuf in the historic centre of the city, specifically in the UNESCO - listed Vieux Lyon district, which is well known for its stunning medieval architecture and cultural significance and just a - 4 minute walk from Saint - Jean - Baptiste Cathedral.

The property is hosted in a building, which has historical roots dating back to the 14th century that originally served various purposes from housing Italian merchants to operating as a Jesuit college.

The building was converted into a boutique hotel in 1987 and has undergone extensive renovations to join the Radisson Collection brand focusing on exceptional experiences and local connections, offering unique, iconic properties with authentic character, design, and gastronomy, catering to guests seeking a vibrant and luxury lifestyle.

Its recent transformation integrates modern hospitality amenities while preserving its historical essence, boasting design elements include preserved structures and objects, enhancing the guest experience with a sense of the locale's heritage.

The stylish hotel features 61 comfortable rooms and suites, each designed to reflect the Renaissance period combined with contemporary comforts, tailored to guests' needs, from short stays to extended visits.

Dining options include Les Loges, a fine dining restaurant set under a glass canopy in a Renaissance courtyard, providing a multi - sensory dining experience emphasizing local ingredients and seasonal menus and Le Comptoir, an elegant bistro offering a modern take on local cuisine.

Cours des Loges Lyon, A Radisson Collection Hotel also offers several venues for events and meetings, each with unique historical and architectural features. The spaces are very suitable for various functions, from cultural receptions to corporate meetings.

The hotel also plans to open a Pure Altitude spa, offering wellness facilities such as an indoor pool, hammam, and sauna. This addition aims to provide a tranquil retreat for guests, nestled within the charming hotel's historic architecture.

Links    
https://www.radissonhotels.com/fr-fr/hotels/radisson-collection-cour-des-loges-lyon
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article136741.html

Huanchaco, Peru | Upcoming Development of a New Tourist Pier to Revitalize the Cultural Landscape

Huanchaco, a popular seaside resort city on the Pacific Ocean in the province of Trujllo, Peru, capital of the homonymus distrct, known for its pristine beaches, great surf breaks, its typical boats "Caballitos de totora", tasty seafood, located near the ancient ruins of Chan Chan that was the largest city of the pre - Columbian era in South America and it is now an archaeological site in the department of La Libertad, will have the development of a new tourist pier to revitalize the cultural lasndscape.

The President of AHORA – Huanchaco, the Association of Hotels, Restaurants and Related Businesses of the Peruvian city, Vanessa Guevara announced the upcoming construction of a new tourist pier and will leave aside the previous one that was operating since 1886, specifying that the investment in its development would require approximately 40.0 milliones soles.

 The work will take place to manage the affected area corresponds to the front left sector of the pier, where the wooden structure, already compromised by the action of the waves, humidity and lack of maintenance, gave away completely.

In this regard, there is interest from the private sector in assuming responsibility for the construction of the new dock and the President of AHORA – Huanchaco revealed that there are four companies that have shown interest in the project for the new pier.

In this sense, the head of the Association asked for the acceleration in the preparation of the preliminary studies and technical file, as well as the respect of the original pattern of its design and that it be work that lasts as long or longer than the current dock.

It should be noted that the iconic pier, historically used by local fishermen, residents and tourists, was part of the cultural landscape of the province of Trujllo and has been, for decades, one of the main attractions of the Huanchaco coast.

 The President of AHORA said that the pier had become a tourist attraction in Huanchaco, and was one of the most visited monthly by about 30.000 tourists, but for more than five years presented structural problems.

For these problems the pier was closed three years ago by order of the Peruvian Navy and due to the closure in that period of time Huanchaco has lost more than 3.0 million soles.

Consequently the head of AHORA – Huanchaco pointed out that there is an economic damage to tourist activity in the aformentioned jurisdiction due the fall of the historic pier.

The vast majority of visitors come to Huanchaco attracted by the tourist bridges, its beaches, gastronomy and services while international visitors come mainly for surfing and living culture, but Huanchaco pier has always been one of the most visited sites.

The decrease in the tourism flow apart the closure of the Pier was also due to citizen insecurity, and social conflicts, among others and the hope is now with this project to revert to the good of the region and tourism in Huanchaco.

 Link - https://infoturlatam.com/huanchaco-tendra-un-nuevo-muelle-turistico/

Athens, Greece | Acropolis Archaeological Site Reopened Hidden Routes, a Major Upgrade to Enrich Visitor Experience

The Greek Culture Ministry has unveiled a series of enhancements to the iconic Acropolis, a prominent archaeological site in Athens, major city and capital of Greece, known for its historical significance and architectural marvels, including the emblematic Parthenon reopening hidden routes, a major upgrade to enrich visitor experience.

This move will highlight furthermore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbol of ancient Greek civilization located on a rocky hill overlooking the Greek capital,  featuring various monuments and structures dating back to the Mycenaean era and beyond.

This relevant initiative offers visitors access to newly restored areas and improved facilities for the first time in decades. 

From 1st June, visitors can explore the redesigned southern plateau near the Aeropagus Rock located just to the right of the exit of the Acropolis, also known as the "Hill of Ares" , a dramatic rocky outcrop offering stunning views over the rest of Athens.

The reopening of these iconic paths will also allow walk a scenic route along the North Slope to key monuments like the Klepsydra, a natural spring situated on the north - west slope orf the Acropolis hill, near the intersection of the Peripatos and the Panathenaic Way, the Sanctuary of Aphrodite and Eros, and also enjoy a new gift shop to meet growing tourist demand.

Ephorate of Antiquities of Athens, a regional service of the Ministry of Culture under the General Directorate of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage and ODAP, the organization for the Management and Development of Cultural Resources led the upgrades as part of a broader effort to enrich the experience at Greece's most iconic heritage site. 

The redesigned walkways improve access to previously restricted areas, while maintaining harmony with the historic and natural landscapes.

Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said that these improvements are not only about visitor services but also about cultural diplomacy, preserving the character of the site while offering a richer, more inclusive experience.

The new gift shop was developed with €600.000 in funding from the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility and is designed to high aesthetic standards appropriate for the archaeological setting and the surrounding landscape was upgraded with additional national funds and support from the Onassis Foundation.

Looking ahead, the Culture Ministry plans to reopen the Old Acropolis Museum with a mix of temporary archaeological exhibits, digital displays and contemporary art.

The adjacent area, including the Sebasteion and parts of the iconic Mycenaean wall will also be opened for the public for the first time and the Minister of Culture said that these developments allow visitors to spend more time on the Rock, deepen their understanding of the site, and explore aspects of it that have long been hidden.

The upgrades reflect ongoing investment in sustainable tourism infrastructure and cultural heritage preservation at one of the world's most visited archaeological sites.

 The Greek Culture Ministry instead of a formal inauguration, unveiled the Acropolis upgrades through a festive event where the music group Encardia led visitors on a celebratory walk featuring songs and dances from Southern Italy's Greek speaking communities.

Minister of Culture Lisa Mendoni was joined by George Koumendakis, Artistic Director of the Greek National Opera ; Nikoletta Valakou, President of ODAP ; Elena Kountouri, Head of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Athens, and several Culture Ministry officials.

The event concluded with a large crowd following the musical procession to the Sanctuary of Aphrodite and Eros, an iconic site that represents a poignant testament to ancient worship.

Link 
https://news.gtp.gr/2025/06/02/acropolis-reopens-hidden-routes-launches-new-gift-shop-in-major-visitor-upgrade/

Cape Town, South Africa | To Host First - Ever Surf Expo Africa in November 2025

Cape Town, vibrant port city of South Africa's southwest coast, the legislative capital of the country and the seat of the South African Parliament, located on a scenic peninsula and known for its harbour, unique natural setting in the Cape Floristic Region, and for spectacular landmarks like Cape Point and Table Mountain will host first - ever Surf Expo Africa in November 2025.

South African Tourism has confirmed its partnership with this unique event set to take place in Cape Town from 28th top 30th November 2025 that aims to position Africa's surf and ocen lifestyle sector as key contributor to tourism growth, offering a platform for local and international surf brands, tourism operators, and coastal communities to connect and showcase their offerings.

This event is not just a gathering ; it's a convergence of like - minded enthusiasts and industry leaders from South Africa and all over the world, a hub for discovery the latest innovations, trends, and methodologies that are shaping the future of the industry in the African continent.

Held along one of the world's most recognised coastlines, Surf Expo Africa will combine a blend of trade exhibitions, cultural showcases, product demonstrations, and expert discussions.

Backed by the South Africa National Convention Bureau, the event is expected to attract global interests, tapping into the growing surf tourism market while generating meaningful opportunities for local enterprises and coastal destinations across the African Continent to showcase their products and offerings.

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/cape-town-to-host-inaugural-surf-expo-africa-in-november-2025.html