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Fattal Hotel Group’s First US Acquisition: A Strategic Entry into the American Market
Fattal Hotel Group, owner and operator of 329 hotels in 22 countries, including the flagship Leonardo Hotels brand, has signed an agreement to acquire The Blakely Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. The acquisition marks the company’s first hotel investment in the United States and a significant milestone in its evolution from a leading European hospitality operator into a global hotel group. The acquisition completed on 7th July 2026. Located on West 55th Street between Sixth and Se
Jul 232 min read


Abra Group and Etihad Airways establish strategic partnership to strengthen connectivity between Latin America, the Middle East and key global markets
Etihad Airways and Abra Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening connectivity between Latin America, the Middle East and Asia through the combined networks of Etihad and Abra’s airlines: Avianca, GOL and Wamos Air. The MoU reflects Abra’s strategy of leveraging the complementary strengths of its airline portfolio to create new growth opportunities, expand connectivity for customers and develop innovative
Jul 232 min read


Riyadh Air Touches Down in Madrid – Landmark Maiden Flight Lands Following Successful Malaga Debut
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new full-service national carrier, today officially commenced operations to Spain as its maiden flight from Riyadh touched down at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) this morning. The historic landing of flight RX0531 establishes the only direct scheduled air link between Madrid and Riyadh, ushering in a new era of economic, tourism, and cultural connectivity between Spain and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The celebratory arrival in Madrid co
Jul 232 min read


Almost half of Irish people are using AI to plan holidays, new loveholidays research finds
AI search is becoming a new travel companion for Irish holidaymakers, with almost half (44%) of people surveyed by loveholidays already using it for travel or holiday planning. A survey of 1,000 Irish respondents conducted by the online travel agent found that AI has moved firmly into the mainstream as a search tool, with three in four (76%) saying they use AI search in their personal life (41% use it at least weekly, while 14% use it every day). AI search is changing how pe
Jul 233 min read


Messe Berlin Americas Joins the World Travel & Tourism Council as a Regional Member
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is pleased to welcome Messe Berlin Americas as a Regional Member. The partnership brings together WTTC and the organizer of ITB Americas, the newest addition to Messe Berlin’s global ITB brand portfolio, reinforcing their shared commitment to advancing the global Travel & Tourism industry. As the first and only travel trade show bringing together North America, Central America, South America and the Caribbean under a single B2B platf
Jul 232 min read


Virgin Voyages announces onboard programme for Solar Eclipse Voyages
Virgin Voyages has revealed the onboard programme for its two Solar Eclipse Voyages taking place in August 2026. The adults-only cruise line will operate European itineraries on Valiant Lady and Scarlet Lady, with both ships positioned in the path of totality for the solar eclipse on August 12. The sailings are:Solar Eclipse: Iceland & British Isles: A 15-night voyage roundtrip from Portsmouth onboard Valiant Lady, departing August 5. The itinerary calls at Dublin, Glasgow, L
Jul 233 min read


Travel + Leisure’s 2026 World’s Best Awards Spotlight Hilton’s Luxury and Lifestyle Brands and Properties
The Travel + Leisure 2026 World’s Best Awards, one of the most prestigious awards in the travel industry and selected entirely by Travel + Leisure readers, once again recognized leading global hospitality brand Hilton with widespread accolades across numerous categories. Twenty-two properties representing five of Hilton’s industry-leading brands – Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Curio Collection b
Jul 234 min read


Old favourites and cruising shape 2026 booking trends for Irish holidaymakers
Cruise holidays and trusted European favourites are shaping how Irish people will travel over the next 12 months, according to booking data from Travel Counsellors Ireland. Booking trends for the premium leisure and corporate travel specialists over the coming 12 months saw Greece record the strongest growth in bookings compared with the same period last year, while Japan, South Africa and Singapore emerged as standout destinations. Cruise sales also increased by 18%, reflect
Jul 232 min read


London Gatwick builds on China network momentum with new Air China service to Chengdu
Passengers heading to China can now benefit from even greater choice from London Gatwick, following the launch of a new Air China service to Chengdu Tianfu (TFU). Flights to Chengdu launched on Sunday 12 July and will run through the 2026 summer season, creating a new direct link between London Gatwick and one of China’s biggest cities. Operating three times per week from the airport’s North Terminal, the service provides additional capacity between the UK and China, meeting
Jul 232 min read


Comporta: Europe's Best-Kept Luxury Secret
I have heard Comporta described as the “Ibiza of the 80’s”, as the big-name hotel came in, before the DJs and the infamous Saint Antonio, back when the focus was on the rugged beauty of the island, the pristine beaches and stunning sunsets. Comporta embodies most of these qualities and draws a certain crowd, those well-seasoned jet-set types, looking for everything Comporta has to offer: pristine beaches, cool upscale beach clubs, laid-back stylish restaurants and accommodati
Jul 233 min read


Luxury Experiences Beyond the Ordinary: Premium Sports & Entertainment Escapes
For clients looking to combine world-class events with premium travel experiences, Sports Entertainment Tours has a selection of hospitality packages spanning boxing, football, live music and darts. From VIP boxing in Las Vegas to Premier League hospitality at Anfield, these packages offer memorable experiences paired with quality accommodation. Ryan Garcia v Conor Benn, Las Vegas Saturday 12 September 2026 | T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas One of the biggest boxing events of the y
Jul 232 min read


An extraordinary Candlelit Monk Blessing at Jaya House River Park in Siem Reap.
Jaya House River Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is a luxury boutique hotel. Located alongside the Siem Reap River, nestled amongst a lush tropical garden. This stylish five-star hotel has 36 rooms, creating an intimate boutique atmosphere; two outdoor pools, a Spa with an award-winning restaurant and on the 17th October, you are invited to Java House River Park as they host a private peace blessing in observance of Pchum Ben. At sunset, more than 500 Buddhist monks are expected
Jul 233 min read


Luxury and Aesthetic Bliss in Marrakech
I had the pleasure of staying in one of the most Instagram-famous riads in Marrakech, Riad Yasmine. This beautiful riad consists of 7 individually designed bedrooms, all meticulously crafted, reflecting unique tile work, plush furnishings and a colour palette synonymous with Moroccan culture and aesthetic. From the moment you step into Riad Yasmine, you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie set. The vibrant colours of the emerald pool are breathtaking, and you can see why it'
Jul 232 min read


A Day on the Athens Riviera: The Ultimate Luxury Experience with Caldera Yachting
Athens is famous for its ancient history, vibrant neighbours and historic architecture, and now the Athens Riviera is having its moment. With many 5-star luxury hotels opening along the coast and luxury beach clubs dotted along the shoreline, Vouliagmeni and Glyfada are the places to be. It's a side of Athens that many visitors never experience, yet one that deserves to be at the top of any luxury Itinerary. Getting there is easy: only a 45-minute tram ride from central Athe
Jul 233 min read


Luxury All-Inclusive at Its Finest
After spending six unforgettable nights at Ikos Dassia in Corfu, I can confidently say this is one of the finest luxury all-inclusive resorts I have ever experienced. Travelling from Dublin couldn’t have been easier. With direct flights available from both Aer Lingus and Ryanair, we arrived in Corfu in just four hours. As Corfu is only two hours ahead of Ireland, it makes the perfect short-haul luxury sunshine escape. On arrival, we were greeted by the Ikos team and transferr
Jul 225 min read


Why We’ve Already Rebooked Sani Resort for Next Year
It’s not often that I return from a family holiday and immediately start looking at dates to go back. But that’s exactly what happened after our week at Sani Resort in Greece. In fact, before we’d even fully unpacked our suitcases, we’d already rebooked for the same time next year. After spending a week exploring the resort, trying the restaurants, testing out the activities and staying at Porto Sani, I can honestly say that Sani Resort is one of the best family holidays we’v
Jul 225 min read


Discover Cascais: Portugal's Elegant Coastal Escape
Cascais is a charming seaside fishing town located only 30 minutes from Lisbon by train, making it an ideal spot for a twin-centre holiday, getting the best of city and beach. Its location on the Atlantic coast means to have access to a multiple of water sports, and restaurants renowned for fresh fish and seafood. There are plenty of small, quaint boutiques and charming squares if that is more your vibe. So it is no wonder that Cascais is also home to some of the best luxury
Jul 222 min read


California Dreaming: Inside the Fairmont Miramar Santa Monica
To say that this hotel ticks boxes is such an injustice. The address alone says that you have arrived: “Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica - Southern California”. Come with me through the property and area so I can excite you for what awaits. There are two entrances to the hotel, one for pedestrians and another for self-drive cars or chauffeur transfers from the airport. A hotel of this high-end 5* delivery naturally has accommodations that satisfy the most particular of guests
Jul 222 min read


Family Luxury Awaits at Novotel Kata Avista Phuket
A year ago we decided to embark on a 3-week trip to Southeast Asia. On that family adventure, we spent 5 days in Phuket. Having never been to Phuket, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but all the reviews I had read said the Novotel Phuket Kata Avista Resort and Spa came out on top, especially as a family with 2 kids; they seemed to tick every box. Upon arrival, we were met at reception with the usual Thai warmth and friendliness we had grown a custom too. We were given a refreshm
Jul 222 min read


Uniworld Strengthens European Trade Team with Expanded Role for Brian Hynes
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is delighted to announce the appointment of Brian Hynes as Head of Sales, Ireland & Europe, reinforcing the brand’s continued investment in its Ireland and European trade partnerships and long-term growth strategy. Having been part of The Travel Corporation (TTC) for the past 10 years, Brian has played a key role in growing Uniworld’s presence across Ireland, working closely with the brand and its valued trade partners., building strong relatio
Jul 221 min read
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