Pope Francis’ funeral drove Rome’s highest 2025 hotel performance, with peak occupancy, ADR, and RevPAR recorded on April 25.
The article Rome hotel performance reached 2025 high during Pope Francis’ funeral first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
ARLINGTON, VA. – Rome’s hotel industry recorded its highest daily performance levels of 2025 due to the funeral of Pope Francis, according to data from CoStar. CoStar is a leading provider of online real estate marketplaces, information, and analytics in the property markets. The market peaked on 25 April, the night prior to the funeral, in occupancy (88.8%), average daily rate (351.13 euros) and revenue per available room (311.90 euros). Those levels were the highest of Rome for any day this year, while the ADR was the eighth highest for any day on record.
Room rates and RevPAR on 26 April (the day of the funeral) were the second highest for the year, at 336.45 euros and 285.25 euros, respectively, while occupancy was the fourth highest at 84.8%.
Each of Rome’s submarkets saw double-digit ADR increases on 26 April, with Rome Centre posting the largest year-over-year lift (+42.1% to 786.89 euros).
“We have seen the continued power of events across Europe; however, most events, be it sporting tournaments or concerts, are announced months in advance, allowing guests and hoteliers alike to plan and understand their budgets accordingly,” said Alexander Robinson, regional manager at STR. “Pope Francis’ funeral was announced just five days in advance – a short-term booking window for such a level of compression for the market, which makes this performance even more unique.”
Looking ahead, hotel occupancy in Rome on the books is as high as 84.2% on 7 May, the start of the conclave, and is the highest level of the next 90 days.
The article Rome hotel performance reached 2025 high during Pope Francis’ funeral first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
From Thomas Cook to ChatGPT: the evolution of guided tours in an AI-driven world
AI is transforming guided tours, pushing operators to personalize experiences, adopt hybrid models, and rethink traditional formats for relevance.
The article From Thomas Cook to ChatGPT: the evolution of guided tours in an AI-driven world first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
VALENCIA, SPAIN – Walking tours today are the same as they were 25 years ago – in fact, they’re much like when Thomas Cook led his first tour in the 19th century. However, change is on the horizon – and it’s coming fast. With this bold statement, Alex Bainbridge, CEO Autoura offered at Arival’s flagship European event last week, a forward-looking session on the future of guided experiences showing how artificial intelligence is poised to radically reshape the guided tour sector – and why tour operators must adapt to stay relevant. As AI continues to evolve, the digital assistant on travelers’ phones will soon evolve from providing information to becoming a travel companion. This shift is pushing, in words of Bainbridge, traditional tour operators to rethink the group tour model. In this sense, the panelist urged tour operators to begin offering private, personalized tours at group-tour prices – or face the risk of being replaced by AI-guided alternatives.
How can tour operators adapt?
To stay ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape, the panelist emphasized the need for tour operators to rethink their approach, with a focus on:
“Anyone investing in their business now needs to plan wisely,” warned Bainbridge. And added: “If you’re buying a new bus with a ten-year loan, you could quickly find yourself with an asset no one wants.”
It became evident throughout the discussion that the traditional concept of a “tour” is rapidly evolving. Fixed schedules, group formats, and rigid start times are being replaced by more flexible, on-demand experiences. As AI becomes an integral part of travelers’ journeys – available at their fingertips 365 days a year – expectations are shifting toward highly personalized, real-time interactions. This shift is set to fundamentally transform how people discover, engage with, and experience the world, marking a new era for the travel industry.
The Arival 360 Europe event was held for the first time in Spain (Valencia) from April 28th to 30th. It featured a series of insightful sessions with top-tier panelists, offering an invaluable opportunity to exchange knowledge, address industry challenges, and forge partnerships that drive growth and innovation in the travel sector.
The article From Thomas Cook to ChatGPT: the evolution of guided tours in an AI-driven world first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
Research unveiled at ATM outlines leading travel trends in the Middle East
Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics Company, revealed the latest trends in the leisure, luxury and MICE industries in the Middle East, while VIDEC shared findings from its ‘Travel Market Sizing and OTA Benchmarking’ study.
The article Research unveiled at ATM outlines leading travel trends in the Middle East first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
DUBAI, UNITED EMIRATES – Exclusive research unveiled at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) last week has highlighted key travel trends across the Middle East region. On the second day of ATM, Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company, revealed insights from the “ATM Trends Report: Leisure, Luxury and MICE – Leading Trends for the Middle East”.
The report explored the key forces shaping the travel sector in the Middle East and Arabian Gulf, providing an in-depth analysis of emerging travel trends, evolving travel preferences and economic impacts in the region. Examining growth in visits, nights and spend across inbound and outbound travel, the ATM Trends report highlights key source markets and future opportunities.
Introducing the report, Dave Goodger, Managing Director EMEA, Tourism Economics (An Oxford Economics Company) said: “Global travel will hit new record levels this year, converging back on the pre-pandemic trend, with international and domestic demand rebounding across all regions of the world.
“We are seeing people prioritising travel over many other aspects of spending, with the Middle East being a popular destination. In the GCC, growth is outpacing the global average and travel in the region is largely being driven by international demand, with over 85% of the expected growth in Middle East accommodation demand coming from international travel.”
Leading global travel services provider Trip.com Group shared insights into the remarkable potential of the region at the session titled “Partnering for Progress: Unlocking Tourism Growth Through Innovative Collaborations.” In particular, new trends in entertainment travel, educational travel, and elderly travel are bringing fresh opportunities to the region.
Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group, said: “The Middle East presents tremendous growth opportunities and serves as a crucial node connecting Europe, Africa, and Asia. Convenient entry policies, increased direct flights, and robust investments in tourism have contributed to its rapid recovery. With our insights into new consumer trends and our dedication to business and technological innovation, we look forward to strengthening our collaboration with regional partners to attract global travellers and bring forth a more connected and prosperous future.”
Research and travel M&A consultancy, VIDEC shared insights from its latest research examining market opportunities in the air and hotel sectors across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India for online travel agencies (OTA). Titled “VIDEC’s Travel Market Sizing and OTA Benchmarking”, the study covers the period from 2019 to 2028 and provides in-depth insights into the fastest-growing travel market segments, future market projections, and key distribution trends shaping each market.
Virendra Jain, Founder and CEO, VIDEC Consultants.
Introducing the research on ATM’s Future Stage, Virendra Jain, Founder and CEO, VIDEC Consultants said: “UAE, Saudi Arabia and India have a majority young and digitally connected population with purchasing power that’s conducive for the rapid growth of online travel. The UAE is an ultimate global village, and its cosmopolitan nature as well as its recognition as a major shopping centre, makes it a favoured destination for both Saudis and Indians. All three markets enjoy cultural and religious affinity, and enviable air connectivity. Religious, luxury, VFR and wellness are some of the primary tenets that would continue to perpetuate high-growth for this travel and tourism corridor.”
VIDEC estimates the UAE’s Total Air Market (TAM) will reach USD5.4 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 6.9%. from USD4.2 billion in 2024, reflecting a 32% increase from 2019. TAM measures the market opportunity using a demand-side methodology, taking in-to account only the bookings made from the local point of sale (POS). It excludes transit/transfers and bookings made from other POS, to pertinently arrive at the true potential of the UAE’s travel demand.
In terms of bookings, the total value of air tickets booked online through OTA’s in the Emirates was estimated to be USD679 million in 2024, up 20 per cent from the previous year. Meanwhile, the total value of bookings through airline websites or apps comprised 56% of the online air GBV in 2024 and one-fifth of the UAE’s TAM, representing a market size of USD851 million.
According to VIDEC, this growth is driven by airlines’ robust booking interfaces and compelling loyalty programmes. Major airlines such as Emirates and Etihad are increasingly prioritising online direct channels, enhancing customer engagement through personalised travel experiences, while flydubai has enriched its customer experience by integrating with Emirates Skywards.
The report states that the UAE presents a dynamic landscape for OTA’s due to diverse airline choices and a large expatriate population. VIDEC suggests that although this poses challenges in terms of retaining a loyal customer base, this has created one of the most competitive and lucrative OTA markets in the world.
With digital adoption steadily rising, online channels are becoming the preferred medium for travel bookings in the UAE. OTA’s have emerged as key enablers, according to VIDEC, leveraging advanced technology, consumer-centric features and fintech solutions to deliver seamless travel experiences.
The article Research unveiled at ATM outlines leading travel trends in the Middle East first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya appoints Jonathan Santiago as Executive Chef
Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya appoints Chef Jonathan Santiago as executive chef, ushering in a refined, locally inspired culinary transformation.
The article Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya appoints Jonathan Santiago as Executive Chef first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO – Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya announces the arrival of Chef Jonathan Santiago as executive chef, marking the beginning of an exciting new culinary era at the oceanfront resort. With a distinguished career in luxury hospitality and a passion for creating exceptional dining experiences, Santiago takes the helm of the resort’s culinary program, committed to elevating each dish into a true expression of artistry and sophistication. As executive chef, he will lead the culinary direction across the resort’s acclaimed dining venues including Malpeque, the signature restaurant centered around a regal open-flame grill, Chaya, the all-day brasserie celebrating the beauty of hyper-seasonal ingredients and JA’O, a high-energy, vibrant restaurant that honors traditional techniques and recipes, embodying the spirit of Mexican cantina cooking.
Bringing over two decades of experience in fine dining, Chef Santiago has steered world-class culinary teams and developed innovative concepts that merge refined techniques with local ingredients. His cuisine, rooted in French techniques and enriched by Mexican heritage, is characterized by craftsmanship, balance, and a deep respect for tradition.
Prior to joining Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya, Chef Santiago trained under and collaborated with some of the culinary world’s most respected names and those experiences continue to shape his refined, technique-driven approach to modern Mexican cuisine. He also held various leadership positions at luxury resorts, overseeing complex culinary operations and played an instrumental role in hotel openings and the development of innovative gastronomic concepts tailored to Riviera Maya’s luxury clientele.
“Cooking is more than just preparing dishes; it’s about telling stories, evoking emotions, and connecting people through flavors. My vision at Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya is to fuse authenticity and innovation to create memorable dining experiences that reflect the richness of the region,” said Jonathan Santiago, executive chef, Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya.
Under his stewardship, the resort’s restaurants will continue offering world-class culinary experiences, with a renewed focus on exploring local ingredients, avant-garde techniques, and flawless execution.
“The arrival of Chef Jonathan Santiago marks an exciting moment for our resort. His talent, vision, and dedication to culinary excellence reinforce our mission to offer unparalleled dining experiences to our guests. We are confident that his leadership will take Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya to new heights in the world of fine dining,” says Nazaret Carbonari, general manager, Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya.
With this appointment, Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya reaffirms its commitment to offering experiences that combine luxury, innovation, and exceptional gastronomy, solidifying its status as a must-visit culinary destination in the Riviera Maya and on the international stage.
The article Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya appoints Jonathan Santiago as Executive Chef first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
The Latin America hotel construction pipeline shows robust 18% year-over-year growth
Latin America’s hotel pipeline grew 18% YOY, led by Mexico, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic, with strong luxury segment growth.
The article The Latin America hotel construction pipeline shows robust 18% year-over-year growth first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
PORTSMOUTH, NH – The latest Latin America Construction Pipeline Trend Report by Lodging Econometrics (LE) reveals substantial growth in the region’s hotel construction sector. At the close of Q1 2025, the total hotel construction pipeline in Latin America stands at 715 projects and 112,598 rooms, marking an 18% increase in projects and an 11% increase in rooms year-over-year (YOY).
At the end of the first quarter, there are 287 projects/49,570 rooms under construction in Latin America, reflecting a 15% YOY increase by projects and a 5% increase by rooms. Additionally, projects scheduled to start construction in the next 12 months stand at 190 projects/29,084 rooms, up 1% by projects and rooms YOY, while those in early planning stand at 238 projects/33,944 rooms, up 43% by projects and 37% by rooms YOY.
Chain scales with the largest pipelines at the Q1 close include the upscale chain scale with 139 projects/20,122 rooms, the luxury chain scale with all-time highs of 135 projects and 26,440 rooms, and the midscale chain scale with 128 projects/15,772 rooms. Notably, upper upscale chain scale projects in Latin America reached a record-high project total at Q1 to close the quarter with 119 projects/22,567 rooms.
Latin America’s countries with the largest number of projects in the pipeline at Q1 are Mexico with 254 projects/39,163 rooms, Brazil with 112 projects/15,134 rooms, and the Dominican Republic with 78 projects/18,331 rooms. Mexico reached a new record-high project total at Q1, while the Dominican Republic achieved both record-high project and room totals. These three countries account for 62% of the projects and 65% of the rooms in the total Latin America pipeline.
Key cities with the largest construction pipelines include Mexico City, Mexico, with 26 projects/3,068 rooms, Riviera Maya, Mexico with 16 projects/1,846 rooms, and Lima, Peru with 14 projects/2,192 rooms. Following Lima is the Dominican Republic’s Santo Domingo, with 13 projects/1,546 rooms and Georgetown, Guyana, with 12 projects/1,664 rooms.
Hotel renovation and brand conversion activity remains strong in Latin America at the end of Q1 2025, accounting for 137 projects/26,015 rooms. Construction starts in the quarter totaled 36 projects/5,353 rooms, while new project announcements (NPAs) showed growth with 58 projects/9,364 rooms.
The first quarter of 2025 saw 8 new hotels/1,319 rooms open throughout Latin America. The LE new hotel openings forecast for the remainder of the year expects an additional 89 new hotels with 14,761 rooms to open by year-end, for a 2025 year-end total of 97 projects/16,080 rooms. Looking ahead, LE analysts expect new hotel openings in Latin America to increase in 2026 with 133 new hotels/20,345 rooms forecast to open.
The article The Latin America hotel construction pipeline shows robust 18% year-over-year growth first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
Hospitable launches new dynamic pricing tool
Hospitable launches built-in dynamic pricing tool, offering hosts automated, real-time rate optimization with no extra fees or third-party integrations.
The article Hospitable launches new dynamic pricing tool first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
SAN FRANCISCO – Property management software Hospitable announces the launch of its proprietary dynamic pricing tool to help hosts and property managers increase revenue, automate rate-setting, and respond to real-time market trends.
With this launch, Hospitable becomes the first PMS in the industry to have dynamic pricing built in and included for no additional fee – no third-party tools or integrations required.
The release comes at a time when many hosts are under pressure to improve performance. New data from Hospitable’s upcoming industry report reveals that 57.2% of hosts are struggling to meet occupancy goals, while 28.9% report difficulty managing pricing1.
Hospitable’s new tool is designed to make smart pricing automatic. Fully embedded within the platform, it offers real-time, hyperlocal pricing recommendations. Behind the scenes, the system draws on multiple trusted market data sources to respond to real-time market fluctuations, host preferences, and booking behaviors.
Hosts can adjust their pricing strategy with flexible settings (ranging from conservative to aggressive) directly in their booking calendar, set custom pricing rules, override suggestions, and view live market demand through an integrated heatmap.
Typically, Hospitable’s dynamic pricing offers a 30-day preview of pricing trends before activation, with full access to 24 months of insights unlocked once activated. But for the first month after launch, Hospitable is giving all customers access to the full 24-month preview without needing to activate the solution. This one-time window lets users explore the full depth of pricing insights before putting the tool to work.
Hospitable’s embedded dynamic pricing is included at no extra cost. It marks the latest step in the company’s evolution from a PMS to short-term rental super app, offering an advanced suite of tailored solutions to help self-managers, co-hosts, and property managers manage every aspect of their business.
Pierre-Camille Hamana, CEO of Hospitable said: “The data is clear: pricing continues to be a critical challenge for hosts, with nearly 30% telling us they struggle to get it right. This signals that even as this industry matures, hosts are still underserved when it comes to simple, effective tools that help them compete. With our new dynamic pricing we wanted to build something that felt truly built-in, intuitive, intelligent, and available right where hosts already work. Our Dynamic Pricing gives hosts visibility into their market, helps them set smarter rates faster, and removes the guesswork. We’ve also made sure it’s accessible: there are no extra fees, no complex integrations – just practical, data-backed pricing support that meets hosts where they are, and grows with them.”
Hospitable’s dynamic pricing tool is available to all Hospitable customers on any of Hospitable’s Host, Professional or Mogul plans from today. The full industry report, featuring deeper insights into 2025 host priorities and performance benchmarks, will be released next week.
Launched in 2016 as a time-saving PMS, Hospitable has evolved into a powerful toolkit that goes beyond traditional property management – automating guest messaging with AI, optimizing nightly rates, managing rental agreements and security deposits, coordinating teams, and powering direct booking websites with built-in payments and property protection.
The article Hospitable launches new dynamic pricing tool first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
Ascend Airways makes history with first direct flight between UK and Sierra Leone in over a decade
Ascend Airways launches first direct UK–Sierra Leone flight in 12 years, boosting connectivity, tourism, and economic ties with sustainable aviation.
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Ascend Airways makes history with first direct flight between UK and Sierra Leone in over a decade Ascend Airways UK, a subsidiary airline of Avia Solutions Group – the ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, has successfully operated the inaugural flight from London Gatwick to Freetown, Sierra Leone. This marks a re-establishment of direct air connectivity between the two countries after a 12-year hiatus. The historic flight took place on April 26, with the return journey from Freetown on April 27, coinciding with Sierra Leone’s Independence Day.
The inaugural flight carrying members of the United Kingdom’s Sierra Leonean diaspora, along with other international guests, restored a vital air link. The last time the two destinations were
connected with direct flights was in 2012.
“It is a true honour to have operated the historic London Gatwick to Freetown flight on behalf of Air Sierra Leone. It took months of hard work to set this connection up, and we are looking forward to operating this much-needed route during the summer and winter season,” said Alastair Willson, CEO of Ascend Airways.
Ascend Airways is a UK-registered airline, which has an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and Type B Operating License from the UK CAA. In 2023, it was acquired by Ireland-headquartered Avia
Solutions Group, which operates a fleet of 221 aircraft on 6 continents. The airline will operate three weekly services for Air Sierra Leone commencing on June 16. This new route reconnects Sierra Leone with the UK, opening vital opportunities for tourism, business, and economic development between the two countries.
The partnership between Air Sierra Leone and the UK-registered Ascend Airways promises a high level of safety and adherence to strict regulations. All flights on this route will be operated utilizing Ascend Airways-trained cockpit and cabin crew. Ascend Airways is also responsible for all maintenance procedures of the aircraft operating the Gatwick-Freetown flights.
The inaugural flight was operated by the company’s newest Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, G-CRUX, which was added to the airline’s fleet in 2025. The choice of aircraft shows the commitment Ascend Airways has to sustainable aviation, as the MAX reduces CO2 emissions by 20% and features a 40% lower noise footprint compared to previous-generation aircraft.
The article Ascend Airways makes history with first direct flight between UK and Sierra Leone in over a decade first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
JetBlue adds new flights to Wilmington and Norfolk
JetBlue adds JFK flights to Detroit, Hartford, Conn., Pittsburgh and Providence, R.I.; launches Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to Guatemala City.
The article JetBlue adds new flights to Wilmington and Norfolk first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
BOSTON – JetBlue launched its first flights to Wilmington International Airport (ILM) and Norfolk International Airport (ORF) – two new destinations that further the airline’s JetForward strategy as it continues to build the best East Coast leisure network.
Alongside the inaugural service to Wilmington and Norfolk from Boston, several new routes also begin today, connecting existing JetBlue cities in the Northeast and Latin America to the airline’s focus cities, providing strong onward connectivity for customers looking to explore the many destinations JetBlue offers.
New JetBlue Cities:
New Routes Connecting Existing JetBlue Cities:
The new seasonal flights to Wilmington and Norfolk taking off today mark JetBlue’s first-ever service to both destinations and offer travelers more options for unique summer escapes. Whether drawn to Wilmington’s scenic Riverwalk or the rich maritime legacy of Virginia’s Seven Cities, JetBlue now offers a comfortable, convenient way to reach both picturesque places via Boston.
“Wilmington and Norfolk are the kinds of relaxing and distinct destinations our customers are craving, especially during the summer months,” said Daniel Shurz, JetBlue’s Senior Vice President of Revenue, Network and Enterprise Planning. “These new routes expand our presence in Boston and connect even more communities to JetBlue’s broad network across the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe.”
“We’re excited to welcome JetBlue as the latest airline to launch service at ILM. Their nonstop flight to Boston offers an affordable flight to this historic New England city and offers options to easily connect to numerous destinations abroad, including many popular European destinations,” said Jeff Bourk, ILM Airport Director. “On behalf of ILM I’d like to thank JetBlue for investing in our community.”
“On either end of this route, travelers can experience everything from historical and cultural landmarks to world-class universities, leading businesses, acclaimed restaurants and many amazing recreational sites,” said Mark Perryman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Norfolk Airport Authority. “JetBlue’s presence at ORF is a long-awaited and extremely welcome addition that greatly benefits residents and visitors to Coastal Virginia as well as the Outer Banks and parts of northeastern North Carolina. We look forward to welcoming those guests, as well as serving local travelers who’ll use these flights to enjoy all that Boston, and its nearby communities have to offer.”
Schedule between Boston and Wilmington – Operating daily from April 30, 2025 – October 25, 2025
|
BOS – ILM Flight #1293 |
ILM – BOS Flight #1290 |
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9:00 AM – 11:13 AM |
12:00 PM – 2:12 PM |
Schedule between Boston and Norfolk – Operating daily from April 30, 2025 – October 25, 2025
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BOS – ORF Flight #1813 |
ORF – BOS Flight #1814 |
|
3:30 PM – 5:05 PM |
6:00 PM – 7:29 PM |
Both routes operate daily on JetBlue’s A220 aircraft, offering customers JetBlue’s award-winning service, fast and free Fly-Fi, seatback entertainment at every seat, and complimentary snacks and drinks.
Beyond Wilmington and Norfolk, the launch of six other new routes today reflects JetBlue’s continued investment in building a more connected and convenient network for customers across the East Coast and beyond. By adding service between existing JetBlue cities and the airline’s major focus cities—including New York-JFK and Fort Lauderdale—customers now have even more ways to access JetBlue’s award-winning service and extensive list of destinations.
For customers in Detroit, Hartford, Pittsburgh, Providence, and Guatemala City, these new daily flights provide direct access to key JetBlue cities or onward service to a wide array of destinations. Customers can take advantage of more schedule options, better connectivity, and easy access to airports that serve as gateways to dozens of cities across the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe.
s Boston’s leading leisure carrier, JetBlue is deepening its commitment to this key focus city with 75 destinations served in 2025. Building on the success of its transatlantic routes to London, Paris, and Amsterdam, JetBlue will expand its European presence with new daily flights to Madrid and Edinburgh launching May 22, bringing more international options and low-fare competition to Boston as a fresh, comfortable alternative to legacy carriers.
Customers who book directly through jetblue.com are guaranteed to find our lowest fares, and can enjoy additional benefits including access to all of JetBlue’s fare options, as well as fare sales and promotions, some of which may not be available through other third parties; the ability to earn 2x TrueBlue points and participate in Points Pooling; seamless seat selections and upgrades to EvenMore; 24/7 direct access to JetBlue’s customer service channels; and more.
The article JetBlue adds new flights to Wilmington and Norfolk first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
2025 World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards opens for entry
World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025 opens entries globally, recognising impactful contributions to sustainable tourism across 30 categories by June 30.
The article 2025 World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards opens for entry first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards has opened entries for its 2025 programme. Individuals and organisations across the globe accelerating change and making an impactful contribution to sustainable travel and tourism are invited to enter free of charge.
30 categories covering all sectors of sustainable travel and tourism have been selected by the Awards Advisory Board of experts to reflect the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and net positive framework of People, Planet, Place, Prosperity and Partnerships.
This year’s programme sees the introduction of nine new categories to reflect the evolving landscape of sustainable tourism. These include peace impact, food and nutrition, indigenous community tourism, and guest experience.
Using a simple set of criteria, entries must be submitted by 30 June. These will then be analysed and vetted by students of sustainable business from the Nova School of Business and Economics, Lisbon, with the final shortlist approved by the Awards Advisory Board.
Global voting – open to travel and tourism professionals – will run from 14 July to 30 August.
The winners will be announced at the 2nd annual World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards Gala Ceremony, taking place at Terra, Expo City Dubai, on 29 October 2025, with the leaders in sustainable travel in attendance.
Key Dates:
Justin Cooke, Executive Vice-President, World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, says: “On behalf of the Awards, I am delighted to open submissions for our 2nd annual programme. We welcome entries from across the sustainable travel and hospitality sector. Our goal is to recognise and tell the stories of those accelerating change and making a sustainable impact on our planet for the next generation.”
The Awards is run in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, whose partners and members represent over 66,000 hotels, 8 million rooms globally, 300 brands, and over 100 supply chain and strategic partners.
Glenn Mandziuk, CEO, World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, says: “I’m thrilled to see the categories for the 2025 World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards now live, it marks the exciting beginning of a journey to recognise those making a real difference across our industry. The hosting of this year’s awards at Terra, Expo City Dubai, is a powerful symbol of our collective ambition to build a Net Positive future for the industry. I look forward to celebrating the visionaries and innovators who are leading the way towards a more sustainable world.”
The article 2025 World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards opens for entry first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort opens in the Dominican Republic
The Iconic Brand’s First Resort in the Destination Redefines Elegance in the Caribbean with Exquisite Experiences and Celebrated Rituals.
The article The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort opens in the Dominican Republic first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
The St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, announces the opening of The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort, marking the brand’s highly anticipated debut in the Dominican Republic. Nestled within the exclusive enclave of Cap Cana, the resort is set along the island’s most coveted stretch of white-sand coastline, an area renowned not only for its world-class golf and pristine beaches, but also for its deep cultural heritage and warm, storied spirit. Inspired by the region’s rich history, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty, The St. Regis Cap Cana seamlessly blends timeless luxury with the soul of the Dominican Republic. Set against the backdrop of lush tropical splendor, guests will experience the warmth of Dominican hospitality, the rhythms of its lively music, and the flavors of its celebrated cuisine, all within a setting that redefines elegance and bespoke service in the heart of the Caribbean.
“We are thrilled to debut The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort, bringing the timeless elegance of St. Regis to the Dominican Republic for the first time,” said George Fleck, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “Set along the pristine shores of Cap Cana, this glamorous new hideaway embraces the island’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture while offering the brand’s signature sophistication, bespoke service, and timeless rituals that have defined St. Regis for over 120 years. As we continue to expand into the world’s most coveted leisure destinations — with plans to double our resort portfolio over the next decade – The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort exemplifies our vision of creating exquisite escapes that blend tradition with contemporary refinement for global travelers and locals alike.”
With architecture by award-winning firm Acebal Canney Arquitectos & Asociados and interior design by acclaimed Crafted by CHAPI Design / Chapi Chapo Design, the resort’s design draws inspiration from the lush palm-lined beaches, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant energy that define the surrounding land. At the heart of the resort’s design, is a tribute to the island’s multicultural legacy, symbolized by the “faceless doll.” Crafted by Dominican artisans as an emblem of unity and diversity, and incorporated throughout the property, her vibrant colors represent the land, her ornamentation reflects the character of the people, and her faceless form embodies everyone. With every detail, the resort’s design tells a story of transformation – earth molded into art, waters shaping the land, and diverse cultures harmonizing – seamlessly weaving the textures, colors, and energy of the Dominican landscape, reflecting the warmth and vibrancy of its people across the resort. For instance, the spa incorporates a harmonious blend of water and rock, reflecting the island’s sculpted coastline. The rooms feature custom stone tiles that pay tribute to the island’s natural beauty, while the cigar lounge’s gracefully curved lines evoke the gentle flow of smoke rising against a dusky Caribbean sunset.
Perfect for couples, families, or multigenerational travelers, The St. Regis Cap Cana boasts 200 lavish guest rooms, including 36 suites with direct plunge pool access, all featuring stunning ocean views. The accommodations reflect a contemporary yet elegant interpretation of the Caribbean spirit, with a Presidential Suite spanning 6,500 square feet, designed for an unrivaled luxury experience. The guest rooms are designed to echo the dramatic beauty of the surrounding cliffs and sea, evoking a sense of refined comfort with bespoke furnishings, natural textures, and a soothing color palette of soft, oceanic blues and sandy neutrals inspired by the coastal surroundings. Thoughtful lighting and tailor-made furnishings enhance the serene atmosphere, while expansive layouts with seaside views invite guests to experience the seamless harmony between architecture and the surrounding landscape.
Catering to travelers seeking a refined yet relaxed environment, The St. Regis Cap Cana features four swimming pools, including exclusive spaces reserved for discerning adults and family-friendly areas designed for guests of all ages as well as an exclusive Children and Teens Club, where cultural and educational experiences bring Dominican Republic’s rich heritage to life; all complemented by the signature St. Regis Butler Service. Off property, golf enthusiasts will revel in the proximity of the legendary Punta Espada Golf Course, a Jack Nicklaus signature course, with sweeping ocean views and a challenging design. Additionally, the resort is ideally situated near Cap Cana’s premier attractions, including the Marina Cap Cana, Scape Park, and Los Establos Equestrian Center, ensuring an array of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for guests.
The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort boasts nine diverse dining venues, including its flagship Nina Restaurant, helmed by award-winning Peruvian Chef Diego Muñoz of World’s 50 Best Restaurants fame. Fire takes center stage at Nina Restaurant, a name translated from “ember,” “candle,” or “fire” in Quechua, the indigenous language spoken in the Andean region of South America. From perfectly grilled selections to elegantly chilled dishes, every plate is thoughtfully sourced from the finest ingredients throughout the Americas. For an exclusive touch, the Uma Wine Cellar Room offers a private dining experience with a bespoke menu curated by Chef Muñoz.
A signature brand experience, The St. Regis Bar embodies Dominican culture with modern elegance, offering omakase-style bar bites, a caviar ritual, and the beloved St. Regis traditional champagne sabering ritual, all set against a striking faceless doll mural — a defining feature deeply rooted in local culture and heritage, adding a unique and refined dimension to the atmosphere. Guests can indulge in the resort’s signature Bloody Mary, the “Quisqueya Mary,” inspired by a local Dominican dish and crafted with the property’s own island-made light rum, in-house spice mix, and infused with fried plantain. For cigar aficionados, The Amber Roomis a luxurious lounge space offering a premium selection of rum, cognac, and whiskey, complemented by smokey cocktails and sophisticated Latin-inspired bites such as empanadas, caviar, and jamón. With a walk-in humidor, a chic in-bar shop, and the expertise of a cigar sommelier and “rummilier,” guests can enjoy perfectly paired cigars and rum, enhanced by stylish cigar holders.
Cassava, the resort’s Latin American-inspired restaurant, provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a lush, inviting space, complete with private dining areas and weekend brunch. The rooftop bar Cielo Mio delivers an upscale coastal-inspired ambiance with breathtaking views, complemented by refined Mexican and Latin cuisine. For those seeking Mediterranean flavors, Marola Mediterranean Grill offers an array of grilled seafood, meats, and classic dishes, perfect for poolside or beachside dining. Kawa Coffee Shop provides a grab-and-go experience with locally sourced cacao-based treats and artisanal pastries, while El Huerto serves as a versatile pop-up venue hosting plant-based dining experiences, guest chef events, and interactive tastings. Finally, Carey Bay, the resort’s exclusive beach bar, offers fresh Caribbean-inspired cocktails and light, flavorful dishes, seamlessly delivered to guests enjoying the tranquil oceanfront setting.
With 14 stunning treatment rooms and curated experiences designed to relax, reinvigorate and indulge the senses, The St. Regis Spa is given life through a defined set of six foundational truths: celebratory, bespoke, natural, sensorial, refined and extraordinary – all working together to create exquisite respite for the discerning traveler. Immersing guests in nature, the space seamlessly blends the outdoors with indulgent treatments rooted in ancient traditions and enhanced by locally sourced ingredients, offering a sensory escape for both mind and body. The Spa features a water treatment area for men and women, indoor and outdoor relaxation spaces, a retail store and a Spa Suite, ideal for socializing with friends and loved ones. Guests can also stay active in the state-of-the-art fitness center.
An exceptional venue for gatherings of all sizes, The St. Regis Cap Cana offers versatile meetings and special events spaces with a new level of tropical glamour. Three meeting spaces, including the outdoor Hibiscus Terrace and the John Jacob Astor Boardroom, make up a total of 7,000 sq. ft. of event space. The resort’s ballrooms, meeting rooms, and pre-function areas are thoughtfully designed to capture the lively spirit, movement, and energy of the merengue dance, the heartbeat of the Dominican Republic.
“The grand opening of The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort marks a momentous occasion as we introduce the brand’s legacy to the destination,” shares Laura Santoni, general manager of The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort. “Celebrated for its diverse culture, stunning natural beauty and vibrant musical traditions, the Dominican Republic is the perfect location for the newest St. Regis, our resort offers a wide range of curated experiences, from secluded beaches and world-class dining to an elegantly designed spa and access to championship caliber golf.”
A short drive from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) and one hour from La Romana International Airport (LRM), The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort is minutes away from Cap Cana’s famous shopping, dining, nightlife, and sightseeing.
The article The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort opens in the Dominican Republic first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.