Author: Sam Allcock

Condé Nast Traveler has announced the results of its highly anticipated annual Readers’ Choice Awards, recognising S Hotel Montego Bay as the top hotel in the Caribbean and Central America for 2024. The hotel, previously known as S Hotel Jamaica, has also secured the impressive position of #37 on the list of the best hotels worldwide. The annual awards are determined by over 575,000 readers of Condé Nast Traveler across the United States, who rated their travel experiences from around the globe. The Readers’ Choice Awards are regarded as one of the travel industry’s most prestigious accolades, serving as a…

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the successful acquisition of Standard International, the parent company of The Standard and Bunkhouse Hotels brands. This move marks a significant enhancement to Hyatt’s position in the lifestyle hospitality sector, building upon a series of strategic acquisitions and organic growth that have seen its lifestyle room portfolio quintuple between 2017 and 2023. The acquisition encompasses an asset-light portfolio, including management, franchise, and licence agreements for 22 existing hotels, which collectively feature approximately 2,000 rooms. Notable properties within this portfolio include The Standard in London, The Standard, High Line in New York City, The Standard, Bangkok…

Qatar has launched a new global tourism campaign, ‘Surprise Yourself,’ as part of its strategic goal to attract six million visitors annually by 2030. The initiative seeks to position Qatar as a must-visit destination, showcasing its unique offerings to potential travellers. The campaign invites families, couples, and groups of friends to explore the unexpected experiences available in Qatar. From its stunning natural landscapes to its vibrant cultural scene, the campaign aims to highlight the diverse and meaningful adventures the country has to offer. Key attractions include the idyllic Banana Island, the bustling Souq Waqif, and the exhilarating thrill of dune…

Shanghai marked World Tourism Day with the “Feel Shanghai: Travel as a Local” showcase on September 27 at the Liu Haisu Art Museum. Organised by the Shanghai Administration of Culture and Tourism and operated by Shanghai Daily, the event aimed to present the city’s vibrant culture and tourism offerings through the eyes of its international residents. The initiative encouraged local expatriates to share their favourite hidden gems and must-try experiences, offering valuable insights for foreign visitors. Organisers hope the showcase will foster global interest in Shanghai, reinforcing its position as a premier destination for inbound travel in China. Ten international…

Go Quest Adventures, a company known for its immersive self-guided city trails, has launched a new adventure in Birmingham. To celebrate the occasion, the company is offering a 30% discount for all bookings made during September. This exciting new addition brings Birmingham into the growing list of 25 UK cities where Go Quest’s unique treasure hunt-style experiences are available. The company, which already operates trails in popular cities such as Oxford, Manchester, Glasgow, Cardiff, and York, has recently expanded to Sheffield and now Birmingham. Each trail, known as a ‘Quest,’ encourages participants to explore the city while solving clues, uncovering…

The Transformational Travel Council (TTC) has unveiled its latest initiative, the Ally Public Directory, to coincide with World Tourism Day. This innovative platform aims to connect travellers with expert guides and fellow adventurers who specialise in life-enriching travel experiences. The directory, now live on the TTC website, brings together a global network of professionals dedicated to transformative travel. The concept of transformational travel goes beyond traditional tourism, encouraging deeper personal growth, cultural immersion, and environmental consciousness. The launch of the directory underscores TTC’s commitment to promoting journeys that foster reflection, inspiration, and change. Sonia Cruz Oro, Head of Community at…

In a recent cyber-security breach, major UK train stations have been targeted, affecting around 19 locations managed by Network Rail, including prominent hubs such as London Euston, Manchester Piccadilly, and Liverpool Lime Street. This attack, reported on 25 September, resulted in rail passengers being redirected to a website displaying Islamophobic messages, raising serious concerns about the safety of public networks. Travel expert Magdalena Petrusic from London Tickets & Tours has issued a stark warning to commuters, urging them to remain vigilant while travelling through busy cities. She highlighted the risks associated with using public wi-fi, particularly in light of this…

HotelPlanner, a leading travel technology company and hotel booking platform, has announced a major restructure within its senior leadership team, aimed at accelerating global growth and strengthening its presence in key markets. The company, known for its proprietary artificial intelligence technology and 24/7 gig-based reservations system, is implementing changes designed to enhance strategic oversight and drive operational efficiency. Co-founder Tim Hentschel will take on the role of Chairman of HotelPlanner for the first time, while also serving as Co-CEO. Hentschel, who will be based in the UK, will focus on expanding the company’s reach in the UK and Europe, as…

Travel experts at Audley Travel have unveiled the top global destinations for a digital detox, drawing on data from Tripadvisor and NationMaster. In an increasingly connected world, these locations offer the perfect opportunity to disconnect from technology and immerse in nature, wellness, and cultural experiences. The four leading destinations—Thailand, the USA, Japan, and Australia—are highlighted for their distinct offerings, from spa retreats to national parks. Thailand ranks first for its world-renowned spa and wellness experiences. Frequently dubbed the “wellness capital of Asia,” Thailand provides a haven for those seeking a technology-free retreat. Chiva-Som, located near Hua Hin, is a standout…

Travel experts have shared a range of useful tips to help families visit Disneyland Paris on a budget. As the cost-of-living crisis continues to affect household finances, families are being advised to plan ahead to avoid unnecessary spending while still enjoying the magical experience of the theme park. One of the most significant savings can come from avoiding the purchase of bottled water. Staying hydrated is essential, with the Mayo Clinic recommending men drink 3.7 litres of fluids daily and women 2.7 litres. However, buying bottled water at Disneyland Paris could cost visitors up to €24 per person each day,…