Browsing Category

Spain

Short-term accommodation in Spain rises in 20 big cities

Kanchan Nath Nov 29, 2022

A recent study from the travel industry association of Spain, Exceltur, has shown that short-term accommodation in the 20 biggest cities of Spain is rapidly reaching the number of rooms that…

Beyond Green adds three new member properties

Kanchan Nath Nov 24, 2022

Beyond Green, a global portfolio of planet Earth’s most sustainable hotels, has welcomed three new members, including the brand’s first-ever properties in Canada, Spain, and the Caribbean.

Hyatt To debut Dreams Madeira Resort Spa & Marina in Portugal

Kanchan Nath Nov 16, 2022

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans for the expansion of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection – a new global portfolio of distinct luxury all-inclusive resort brands – to Portugal with…

Mergers & Acquisitions

Reed & Mackay purchases Atlanta Events & Corporate Travel in Spain

Kanchan Nath Nov 11, 2022

The TripActions Group announced that its premium brand, Reed & Mackay, has completed the acquisition of its long-standing partner, the high-end Spanish corporate travel, meetings &…

Spain wants to scrap rule that limits British tourists

Kanchan Nath Nov 11, 2022

Spain’s Secretary of State for the Ministry of Tourism and Industry, Fernando Valdés, wants to scrap the rule that limits British tourists, as well as tourists from other countries, from…

MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions)

UAE and Saudi Arabia professionals showcase at Fruit Attraction 2022

Kanchan Nath Nov 9, 2022

Fruit Attraction 2022, the event for the global fruit and vegetable sector, has concluded following a successful event in Madrid, which welcomed international participants from the United…

Spain introduces new visa for foreign start-ups & digital nomads

Kanchan Nath Nov 9, 2022

The Spanish Parliament has approved the new law for start-ups and digital nomads, which regulates who is eligible for this visa and anticipates reducing the Corporation Tax for these…

TD Syndicated Partner

Tourism Innovation Summit 2022 kicks off in Seville

Editor Nov 2, 2022 0

TIS – Tourism Innovation Summit 2022 kicks off on 2 November in Seville (Spain) as a leading event for tourism innovation. The third edition of TIS will generate an economic impact of…

TD Syndicated Partner

SKAL International CEO Replaced

Juergen T Steinmetz Nov 1, 2022 0

SKAL International in a surprise development announced its CEO since 2016 left the organization and was temporarily replaced. SKAL International CEO Replaced

Spain Has Removed Testing Requirements For Non-EU Visitors

Kristin Mariano Oct 31, 2022

On October 21, Spain removed all the remaining Covid-19 admission requirements for all visitors, regardless of nationality. The era of health paperwork and COVID-19 tests required by…

Promoting Mallorca at WTM

Kanchan Nath Oct 27, 2022

Catalina Cladera Crespi, Head of the Mallorcan Government and Andreu Serra Martínez, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport will attend WTM London 2022 to promote Mallorca’s…

Radisson RED launches in Spain with 260 keys

Kanchan Nath Oct 13, 2022

Set in the center of Madrid’s cultural, artistic and culinary scene, Radisson Hotel Group opens its first Radisson RED in Spain, welcoming the vibrant lifestyle brand to the country

Using AI to become zero waste

Kristin Mariano Oct 6, 2022

The Iberostar Group has announced its ambitious plan to install artificial intelligence in its more than 100 hotels globally to become zero waste, reduce food waste and save more than…

Hotelbeds rounds up top 5 trends this summer

Kristin Mariano Oct 5, 2022

As summer just closed, Hotelbeds rounded-up the top 5 trends for this last summer. With rich data gathered from its unique position at the heart of the travel ecosystem, Hotelbeds can…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Spanish Tourist Office launches sustainability hub

Kristin Mariano Oct 5, 2022

The Spanish Tourist Office in London has launched a new Sustainability Hub on their newsroom platform. The hub is dedicated to demonstrating Spain’s sustainable tourism initiatives, such…

TD Syndicated Partner

The secret festival returns, on one of the most beautiful islands in the world

Dmytro Makarov Sep 30, 2022 0

A surprise musical line-up, haute cuisine, commitment to the environment and the best beer will come together in a new edition of SON Estrella Galicia Posidonia which will be attended by…

Tivoli Hotels & Resorts to debut in Spain

Kanchan Nath Sep 29, 2022

Tivoli Hotels & Resorts as a brand will debut in Spain with the upcoming launch of Tivoli La Caleta Resort in Tenerife.

TD Syndicated Partner

ibis Styles: Bangkok and Sevilla hotels exhibit original art

Dmytro Makarov Sep 29, 2022 0

ibis Styles is bringing new artistic pop to the metaverse with its 2022 #OpenToCreators global campaign, in partnership with world-renowned digital creator and contest ambassadors @tikkywow …

Spain plans to unfold its digital nomad visa scheme

Kanchan Nath Sep 28, 2022

Authorities in Spain have announced that they plan to issue digital nomad visas in order to offer citizens of the United States as well as those from non-European Union countries the…

Best destinations for a winter honeymoon

Kristin Mariano Sep 22, 2022

DiscoverCars.com have created a ranking to find out the best cities in Europe for a winter honeymoon. They did this by analysing factors such as the number of spas and romantic hotels in…

Spain sees intense recovery of tourism

Kanchan Nath Sep 21, 2022

Spain received nearly nine million passengers from international airports in August, representing 87% of those who arrived in the same month of 2019, according to data published yesterday by…

Bedsonline supports its clients in the face of soaring booking demand

Kristin Mariano Aug 19, 2022

Bedsonline's latest figures show that booking demand is stronger than ever, with a 114% increase in gross sales in UK 2022 financial year compared to the same period in 2019. As…

Seek the sun in Seville, Spain

Kanchan Nath Aug 17, 2022

The Bucket List Company has shared a new study on the sunniest European destinations that holiday goers can reach in less than three hours from London.

Hotel Arts Barcelona: Spain’s swankiest hotel is an art and design lover’s paradise

Megha Paul Aug 8, 2022

Styled to embrace the destination’s defining legacy, the iconic beachside, urban resort Hotel Arts Barcelona stands as the tallest building in the city, with a contemporary glass and steel…

Hilton Mallorca Galatzo gears up to host World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony 2022

Megha Paul Jul 27, 2022

The leading travel industry figureheads and decision-makers from across the continent will attend the red-carpet gala reception on 1 October 2022

Hotelbeds launches new Environmental, Social and Governance Strategy

Kristin Mariano Jul 26, 2022

Hotelbeds has today announced its new Environmental, Social and Governance strategy, which aims, as Hotelbeds’ CEO Nicolas Huss describes, "to take Hotelbeds' position on ESG to the next…

Travel and tourism deal activity up in first half of 2022

Harry Johnson Jul 8, 2022

While travel and tourism deal activity improved in several key global markets, some markets experienced decline Travel and tourism deal activity up in first half of 2022

TD Syndicated Partner

Costa Cruises christens its new LNG-powered flagship in Barcelona

Harry Johnson Jun 18, 2022

Costa Cruises today celebrated in the port of Barcelona, Spain, the christening ceremony of Costa Toscana, the newest Italian-flagged ship in the Costa Cruises fleet, with the theme of “The…

TD Syndicated Partner

Most memorable passenger aircraft in history

Linda S. Hohnholz Jun 16, 2022

When you fly, do you have a favorite aircraft? Do you hope upon hope that your next trip will place you in your most memorable passenger jet liner in the sky? Would you go so far as to pay a…

71% of Europeans will be traveling this summer

Harry Johnson Jun 15, 2022

The findings of 21st edition of the Holiday Barometer have been announced today. The survey was conducted among 15,000 people across 15 countries. The survey was taken between April 26 and…

Spain unveils Slow Travel campaign

Megha Paul Jun 9, 2022

The new campaign will highlight sustainable forms of travel in Spain and its islands

TD Syndicated Partner

The Future of Tourism according to the World Tourism Barometer

Juergen T Steinmetz Jun 6, 2022

eTurboNews | eTN Tourism leaders are easy to announce and celebrate behind the resilience of the international travel and tourism industry. This resilience is now also echoed by the World…

Spain to grant more work visas to combat labour shortages

Megha Paul Jun 6, 2022

Spain plans to relax work permit rules for foreigners, its social security and migration minister said

Number of tourists visiting Spain in April up nearly tenfold

Megha Paul Jun 3, 2022

6.1 million foreign tourists arrived in Spain in April against 629,000 in the same month 2021, when several COVID-19 restrictions were still in place

TD Syndicated Partner

Club Med Opens Its First Spanish Resort In Over 20 Years In Marbella

Dmytro Makarov May 27, 2022

Club Med Opens Its First Spanish Resort In Over 20 Years In Marbella - Club Med, the pioneer of the all-inclusive concept, has officially opened its newest European resort, Club Med Magna…

TD Syndicated Partner

Azamara Starts Summer With Mediterranean Cruises

Dmytro Makarov May 27, 2022

Azamara Starts Summer With Mediterranean Cruises - With Azamara Journey returning to sail today, the fleet’s four ships are all sailing the high seas Azamara, the upmarket cruise line and…

Spain lifts ban on entry of vaccinated travellers from non-EU countries

Megha Paul May 25, 2022

The Spanish authorities have finally decided to permit entry for travellers from third countries who have been vaccinated against COVID-19

Madrid becomes the world capital of luxury tourism

Kristin Mariano May 23, 2022

From October 5 to October 7, 2022, Madrid will become once again the world capital of luxury tourism.

Flights to Spain this summer expected to reach 93% of pre-pandemic levels

Megha Paul May 20, 2022

Cirium, the aviation data specialist predicts the June to August period will see a total of 47 million seats on 280,000 flights arriving in Spain from worldwide departure points

Hola Barcelona! Valiant Lady arrives in Mediterranean homeport

Megha Paul May 17, 2022

Virgin Voyages' newest lady ship has cruised into Barcelona ahead of its inaugural Mediterranean season

TD Syndicated Partner

SKAL World President introduces a new Tourism Leadership for Generation Z and Industry 4.0

Juergen T Steinmetz May 16, 2022

SKAL World President introduces a new Tourism Leadership for Generation Z and Industry 4.0 - Skal World President Burcin Turkkan addressed the Skal USA National Convention (NASC)…

TD Syndicated Partner

Ukraine is the Winner! It’s official!

Juergen T Steinmetz May 15, 2022

Ukraine is the Winner! It’s official! - The jury didn’t want it to happen, but The Eurovision Song Contest, sometimes abbreviated to ESC and often known simply as Eurovision…

TD Syndicated Partner

Global Travel Trends in Asia-Pacific

Editor May 14, 2022

Global Travel Trends in Asia-Pacific - The easing of travel restrictions across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region has led to a clear increase in bookings, according to Trip.com data. Though…

TD Syndicated Partner

Travel Hotspots Especially for Seniors

Editor May 12, 2022

Travel Hotspots Especially for Seniors - If you’re a senior over 60, you likely are making or enjoying a travel bucket list. It’s that time of life to retire, slow down from the rat race,…

Airlines and Aviation

Vueling becomes the first airline to sell flights in the metaverse

Kristin Mariano May 11, 2022

Vueling, an airline owned by IAG, will open a new sales channel in the metaverse.

TD Syndicated Partner

Lufthansa and Eurowings Discover offer special flights to the UEFA Europa League final

Harry Johnson May 6, 2022

Lufthansa and Eurowings Discover offer special flights to the UEFA Europa League final - Eintracht Frankfurt has been in the final of the UEFA Europa League since yesterday evening. It is…

TD Syndicated Partner

Air Transat and WestJet launch new transatlantic codeshare

Harry Johnson Apr 29, 2022

Air Transat and WestJet launch new transatlantic codeshare - Today, Air Transat and WestJet have launched a new transatlantic codeshare. WestJet’s “WS” code is now…

How Hotelbeds is helping Ukrainian refugees in Poland find work and accommodation

Megha Paul Apr 22, 2022

B2B travel tech company Hotelbeds and Polish NGO the MaYa Foundation have announced a new partnership dedicated to helping Ukrainian refugees find work and temporary accommodation in the…

Spanish travellers want health and wellness holidays

Kristin Mariano Apr 4, 2022

According to GlobalData’s recently published report, ‘Source Market Insight: Spain (2022),’ the pandemic’s impact on mental health has spurred greater demand for health and wellness holidays…

P&O Cruises returns to full service

Megha Paul Mar 29, 2022

Marking P&O Cruises’ first full return to service since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic two years ago, Arcadia has sailed to the Canary Islands

Easter escape at Hotel Arts Barcelona combines mediterranean vibes, springtime city break sightseeing and kids’ programming

Chris Head Mar 28, 2022

With Barcelona’s balmy April temperatures beckoning, Hotel Arts Barcelona is ready to open the doors to spring and sunshine with fun-filled family stays on the Mediterranean over the Easter…

Middle East UNWTO office sets new travel goals

Megha Paul Mar 21, 2022

UNWTO and Saudi Arabia have agreed on steps they will jointly take to turn tourism into a driver of growth, opportunity and development across the Middle East.

1,461% more British travellers in Spain last January compared to 2021

Megha Paul Mar 7, 2022

Spain recovered about 60 per cent of international tourist arrivals compared to the pre-pandemic era

UNWTO and UEFA join hands to promote sports and tourism

Megha Paul Feb 25, 2022

World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) have agreed to jointly promote the benefits of sports and sports tourism for development and…

Hotel Arts Barcelona offers spring breakers the ultimate luxury getaway

Chris Head Feb 22, 2022

Hotel Arts Barcelona, an iconic urban, beachside resort that towers 44 floors above the Mediterranean Sea, extends itself as the ideal spring break destination for couples, families and…

Quarantine Free Travel

Spain relaxes health entry requirements for young non-EU travellers

Kristin Mariano Feb 22, 2022

Starting 14 February, families can enjoy a more relaxing travel to Spain with the new and easier health entry requirements for Non-EU travellers with ages between 12-17.

Spain releases new entry requirements

Megha Paul Feb 15, 2022

From now on, UK children and teenagers aged between 12 and 17 can present a negative NAAT test (PCR or similar), taken within 72 hours of arrival to Spain, as an alternative to presenting a…

Emirates signs deal with Turespaña to boost tourism to Spain

Megha Paul Feb 8, 2022

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Turespaña, Spanish Tourism Institute, to help boost trade and tourism to Spain

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates signs agreement with Turespaña to boost tourism to Spain

Kristin Mariano Feb 8, 2022

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Turespaña, Spanish Tourism Institute, to help boost trade and tourism to Spain.

Spain to launch digital nomad visa soon

Megha Paul Feb 3, 2022

Spain will unfold plans for the digital nomad visa during the following months in an effort to attract internationals who can temporarily live in Spain while working for companies or clients…

Valencia, Spain: The healthiest city in the world

Kristin Mariano Jan 31, 2022

Valencia has once again been named the healthiest city in the world according to Money.co.uk. Crowned consecutively for a second year, the study evaluates how cities prioritise the health of…

UNWTO unveils tourism investment guide

Megha Paul Jan 24, 2022

UNWTO has launched the first in a series of tourism investment guidelines focused on a specific country, representing a comprehensive tool for parties interested in foreign direct investment…

The Standard, Ibiza is opening its doors in April

Kristin Mariano Jan 21, 2022

The Standard, Ibiza, the White Isle’s most anticipated opening and the newest addition to The Standard’s growing portfolio, is officially taking reservations ahead of its 1 April 2022…

Real Madrid arrives in Riyadh on Emirates Expo Superjumbo, ready for Spanish Super Cup match

Megha Paul Jan 14, 2022

Emirates A380 emblazoned with the blue Expo 2020 'mobility' livery has landed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, carrying one of the most popular clubs in global football; Real Madrid

Spain’s Costa Daurada join hands with Manchester’s women football team

Megha Paul Jan 3, 2022

This partnership will position Costa Daurada as the Official Tourism Partner of Manchester City Women’s Football Club

Spain’s hotel bookings jump five-fold in November

Megha Paul Dec 31, 2021

The number of nights booked by tourists in Spanish hotels surged five-fold in November from the same month a year earlier, but was still 20 per cent lower than in November 2019

AviaDev returns to València in 2022 to transform European regional air connectivity

Megha Paul Dec 30, 2021

From 30 November to 2 December 2022, European airlines, regional airports, and tourism boards will return to València to celebrate the fourth edition of AviaDev Europe, a platform to…

Expansion spree: James Villas adds 600 new properties to Mallorca portfolio

Megha Paul Dec 17, 2021

UK villa holiday provider James Villas has announced the largest product expansion of its 35-year history with the addition of hundreds of new properties across Mallorca

Blanket border closures must end, says UNWTO

Megha Paul Dec 8, 2021

United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has called out against the introduction of blanket restrictions on travel, as witnessed in recent days

Zurab Pololikashvili re-elected Secretary General for UNWTO

Megha Paul Dec 3, 2021

United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has re-elected Zurab Pololikashvili to the role of general secretary of the organisation

Global tourism sees uptick but recovery fragile

Megha Paul Nov 30, 2021

While international tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) increased by 58% in July-September compared to the same period of 2020, they remained 64% below 2019 levels, said the UN World Trade…

Fifth of destinations still completely shut to tourism

Megha Paul Nov 29, 2021

One out of five destinations continue to have their borders completely closed as new surges of Covid-19 impact the restart of international tourism

Reopening updates

5 destinations open for travel right now

Kristin Mariano Nov 10, 2021

As vaccination rates continue to go up, more destinations are reopening to tourists.

Spain logs in steep rise in foreign travel

Megha Paul Nov 8, 2021

International travel to Spain is recovering fast and could allow the tourism-dependent nation to reach pre-pandemic foreign visitor levels by 2022

Future of Tourism World Summit debuts in Barcelona

Megha Paul Nov 3, 2021

UNWTO joined the Advanced Leadership Foundation and the Incyde Foundation of the Chambers of Commerce of Spain for the opening day of the Future of Tourism World Summit

Andalucía launches new plan to reform region’s tourism

Megha Paul Nov 2, 2021

Ministry of Tourism for Andalucía has introduced the new General Plan for the Sustainable Tourism of Andalucía META 2027 (META 2027 Plan), designed to reform the region’s tourism strategy…

València crowned European Capital of Smart Tourism 2022

Megha Paul Oct 29, 2021

València has been named European Capital of Smart Tourism 2022 as the city's candidacy has been chosen by a jury of the European Commission

Here’s what you need to know as Spain eases entry rules for Gulf visitors, no test or vaccine proof needed

Megha Paul Oct 20, 2021

Spain has eased entry procedures for travel purpose from the Gulf following improvement in the pandemic situation and the progress in vaccination rollout, both in Spain and the region

Green shoots of tourism recovery this summer: UNWTO

Megha Paul Oct 4, 2021

International tourism enjoyed signs of rebound in June and July as some destinations eased travel restrictions and the global vaccination rollout advanced in many parts of the world

How UNWTO prepared Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action ahead of COP26

Megha Paul Sep 23, 2021

In preparation for COP26, two information sessions were held on the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism

Best months to visit Spain

Chris Head Sep 20, 2021

Whether that’s Spain’s gorgeous beaches, wondrous tourist spots, the variety of Spanish festivals, or whatever attracts you to the country the most, we’ve got you covered with this short and…

Do I need a visa for Spain? Heres the visa policy

Chris Head Sep 20, 2021

If you’re considering traveling to Spain for any reason, especially if it’s your first time, you are probably wondering about the Spain visa requirements. Even if it’s your 50th trip to the…

Zoom Towns: These are locations that will pay you to move there in 2021

Megha Paul Aug 31, 2021

New research from William Russell has revealed the cities, states and entire countries that will pay you to move there

Medical & Health Tourism

Spain Health Control Form – what is it?

Chris Head Aug 28, 2021

If you are planning on visiting Spain and its countless heart-stirring beaches that dot the nation's coastline, we'd like to draw your attention to the Spanish Health Control Form — an entry…

València becomes first city in world to measure water footprint of tourist activity

Megha Paul Aug 26, 2021

València has reached a new milestone in its commitment to the development of sustainable tourism by becoming the first city in the world to measure the water footprint of tourist activity

Spain’s holiday bookings in August surpass pre-pandemic levels

Megha Paul Jul 23, 2021

On the back of domestic tourism and a perception that rented properties are safer than hotels, Spanish holiday rentals for August are more heavily booked than before the Covid-19 pandemic

Spain topples UK from top holiday booking spot

Megha Paul Jul 13, 2021

Spain has now toppled the UK staycation from its top spot with 29% of bookings, the UK is 12% of bookings and Greece remains at 8% of all summer holiday bookings made

UNWTO launches ‘Jobs Factory’ to kickstart tourism jobs recovery

Megha Paul Jun 18, 2021

UNWTO has launched Jobs Factory, powered by Hosco, the global hospitality network to connect talent with employers across the sector

Sabre becomes first GDS to offer microstays

Megha Paul May 27, 2021

Sabre and BYHOURS have signed a new agreement to provide Sabre’s agency community with relevant content that will allow them to sell rooms by the hour through the BYHOURS’ Sabre Red App

UNWTO makes history with opening of first regional office in the Middle East in Riyadh

Megha Paul May 27, 2021

UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has opened its first regional office for the Middle East in Riyadh, bringing the United Nations specialized agency closer to its members and advancing…

Innovation and digital at centre of tourism recovery as UNWTO logs into Google

Megha Paul May 24, 2021

The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and Google have signed a new agreement to work together and lead global tourism’s recovery through innovation, education, and market intelligence

Reopening updates

Spanish President Pedro Sánchez: “This summer we will safely receive all visitors”

Kristin Mariano May 24, 2021

The president announced that, from 24 May, Spain will allow the entry of British tourists and nine other nationalities, without restrictions or sanitary requirements.

UNWTO logs in to Facebook to restart travel

Megha Paul Apr 20, 2021

UNWTO and Facebook have partnered to help global destinations make use of the power of digital marketing as they look to welcome tourists back safely

Tourist arrivals fall 87% in January 2021

Megha Paul Apr 1, 2021

The devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on global tourism has carried on into 2021, with new data showing an 87% fall in international tourist arrivals in January as compared to 2020

Global community should support small island developing states, says UNWTO

Megha Paul Mar 31, 2021

UNWTO) is calling for the international community to show solidarity with ‘small island developing states’ (SIDS) by ensuring they have access to Covid-19 vaccinations

Eurowings enters British leisure travel market by connecting Mallorca with Birmingham and Manchester

Megha Paul Mar 8, 2021

Entering the British travel market, the carrier will initially fly holiday travellers twice a week from Birmingham as well as from Manchester to Mallorca and back

Secretary-general Pololikashvili nominated to lead UNWTO for four more years

Megha Paul Jan 21, 2021

The Executive Council of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has expressed its continued support for secretary-general Zurab Pololikashvili

UNWTO to host key week for global tourism

Megha Paul Jan 18, 2021

Today in Madrid, the UNWTO Global Tourism Crisis Committee will hold its first meeting of the year to advance concrete plans to ensure the restart of tourism will take place

Bleak Affair: Tourism back to 1990 levels as arrivals fall by more than 70%

Megha Paul Dec 18, 2020

International arrivals fell by 72% over the first ten months of 2020, with restrictions on travel, low consumer confidence and a global struggle to contain the COVID-19 virus, all…

UNWTO launches global ‘restart tourism’ campaign

Megha Paul Dec 15, 2020

Centred around a 45-second film, the 'restart tourism' campaign affirms UNWTO as the unifying voice behind the global restart of tourism

Reopening updates

These are the holiday destinations people are booking for 2021

Kristin Mariano Dec 15, 2020

Here are the top 10 travel destinations of 2021:

Reopening updates

Spain to welcome Brits with no travel restrictions by March

Megha Paul Dec 8, 2020

Spain’s latest tourist scheme hopes to welcome Brits back by next March with no travel restrictions or quarantines

Reopening updates

70% of destinations have lifted travel restrictions but global gap emerging

Megha Paul Dec 3, 2020

According to the eighth edition of the UNWTO Travel Restrictions Report, 70% of all global destinations have eased restrictions on travel introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic

Hotelbeds and Aruba join hands to boost tourism in the Caribbean

Megha Paul Nov 12, 2020

Hotelbeds has announced an agreement with Aruba Tourism Authority, the official Destination Marketing and Management Organization (DMMO) for the Caribbean island of Aruba

UNWTO brings tourism sector together to plan for future

Megha Paul Nov 9, 2020

UNWTO) has once again brought leaders from across the sector together for high-level talks aimed at strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors

Maldives, Canary Islands see enormous increase in bookings

Kristin Mariano Nov 2, 2020

Pent-up demand for travel is real as popular holiday destinations like Maldives and Canary Islands saw a spike in bookings.

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

The perfect destination for the eco-conscious traveller in 2021

Kristin Mariano Oct 29, 2020

The city has become the first in the world to verify its carbon emissions from tourist activity, the first step in a commitment to become a carbon-neutral destination by 2025.

Agents of change: How can APAC’s travel industry come together to solve the contactless conundrum?

Alastair Newport Oct 28, 2020

The technology already exists to render most parts of the travel experience contactless – from voice-activated screens, biometric scanners and automated gates at airports, to robot check-in…

Tourism in Spain staring at USD 120 billion loss due to COVID-19

Megha Paul Oct 23, 2020

Devastated by the pandemic, Spain’s all-important tourism sector is expected to incur losses of more than EUR 100 billion (USD 120 billion) this year

Canary Islands joins UN observatory network for tourism recovery

Megha Paul Oct 22, 2020

Canary Islands has been confirmed as the latest member of the growing International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO), overseeing the responsible development of tourism…

Palma reopens and revives tourism with ‘workations’

Kristin Mariano Oct 20, 2020

Following the reopening of Balearic Islands to international tourists, the city of Palma is repositioning itself as a go-to work-hub destination, where travellers can work and be in a dream…

Spanish Tourist Office outlines travel protocols for Balearic Islands and Canary Islands reopening

Kristin Mariano Oct 19, 2020

There continues to be an appetite to travel to both the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands as long as reliable safety measures are guaranteed.

Canary Islands and Balearic Islands reopen to European countries

Kristin Mariano Oct 14, 2020

The Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands on a protocol to establish travel corridors with European countries.

Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Madrid finally open

Kristin Mariano Sep 28, 2020

After eight years of anticipation, Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Madrid is now open.

UNWTO and Google host first tourism acceleration programme in Sub-Saharan Africa

Megha Paul Sep 24, 2020

United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and Google have partnered for an online Acceleration Programme for UNWTO Member States’ tourism ministers, top travel associations and…

More than 50% of global destinations are easing travel restrictions but caution remains: UNWTO

Megha Paul Sep 11, 2020

UNWTO has confirmed that a majority of destinations around the world (53%) have now started easing travel restrictions introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic

This beach resort offers ‘schoolcations’ for kids

Kristin Mariano Sep 9, 2020

Families staying at Puente Romano Beach Resort this year have access to private tutoring for an educational boost in the Andalusian village-style resort on the beachfront between Marbella…

UNWTO observes safe restart of tourism in Egypt

Megha Paul Aug 27, 2020

A high-level delegation from UNWTO has concluded an official visit to Egypt to offer firm support for the government’s work to restart tourism and direct its benefits towards supporting…

“We are holding on to hope for the autumn/winter season” – Palma Tourism Board

Kristin Mariano Aug 27, 2020

Pedro Homar, manager of the Palma Tourist Board, is confident there will be a strong upward surge of demand to Palma once travel advice is changed.

Hotelbeds makes inroads in Latin America with Netactica partnership

Megha Paul Aug 25, 2020

Hotelbeds, the world’s leading bedbank, has entered into an agreement with Netactica, a travel technology company dedicated to the travel industry in Latin America

Spanish Islands flights from the UK

Malcolm Ginsberg Aug 25, 2020

Both the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Department for Transport have come in for heavy criticism in the way travellers from certain countries have had to self-isolate. This…

One person killed, ten injured in major hotel fire in Spain

Harry S. Johnson Aug 21, 2020

One person died and at lest ten were injured in major hotel fire at Sisu Boutique Hotel in Puerto Banus, Spain. The blaze erupted shortly after 6am local time, amid multiple reports of…

No time for timid leadership! The safe restart of tourism is possible

Megha Paul Aug 19, 2020

The re-opening of borders to tourism is a welcome relief to millions who depend on the travel sector. But this alone is not enough, says UNWTO

Hotelbeds joins hands with Choice Hotels to provide access to 60,000 travel buyers globally

Megha Paul Aug 18, 2020

Bedbank Hotelbeds has announced new strategic agreement with lodging franchisors Choice Hotels International today

Safe, Responsible and Accessible! UNWTO, ONCE Foundation and ENAT partner for tourism for all

Megha Paul Aug 4, 2020

UNWTO is calling on destinations to recognise the needs of travellers with disabilities or specific access requirements as they open up to visitors again

Tourism Restarts: 40% of destinations have now eased travel restrictions

Megha Paul Jul 31, 2020

The responsible restart of tourism is underway around the world as growing numbers of destinations ease COVID-19 related travel restrictions and adapt to the new reality. According to…

Impact of COVID-19 on global tourism made clear as UNWTO counts cost of standstill

Megha Paul Jul 29, 2020

The latest edition of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer shows that the near-complete lockdown imposed in response to the pandemic led to a 98% fall in international tourist numbers in May

Korean Air prioritises digitalisation with new partnership

Alastair Newport Jul 24, 2020

As airlines prepare to take off in a post-pandemic world, carriers need to figure out how to rebuild in a rapidly evolving global environment where historical data no longer applies. As the…

Palma is the new black: Luxury tourism takes off in Mallorca

Kristin Mariano Jul 23, 2020

The wealthy is probably bored to their skull after spending months in quarantine as private jets zoom in Palma de Mallorca as soon as borders reopened.

This is no time for complacency post COVID-19, says UNWTO chief

Megha Paul Jul 21, 2020

UNWTO head talks about how mere words will not do and concrete actions are needed for tourism recovery in post-COVID 19 times

Revamped website, ‘Back to Spain’ campaign and much more! Spain’s plan to boost travel in post-COVID world

Megha Paul Jul 15, 2020

Spain’s minister of industry, trade and tourism, Reyes Maroto, has announced the official portal for Spanish tourism which receives over 15 million visits a year, has undergone a…

Hola Bedsy! Hotelbeds innovates customer service experience with new chatbot

Megha Paul Jun 26, 2020

Hotelbeds, the world’s leading bedbank, has announced the launch of a chatbot feature called Bedsy that will be available to Hotelbeds and Bedsonline clients. This news follows the…

Spain’s Responsible Tourism ‘seal’ showcases Covid-19 measures

Megha Paul Jun 24, 2020

As the Ministry of Tourism in Spain unveils a social media campaign to mark the end of State of Alarm, and welcome new tourists to the country, the secretary of state for tourism has…

Where do Brits want to go on holiday post-lockdown

Megha Paul Jun 22, 2020

Mallorca, Spain is the most popular holiday destination for Brits post-lockdown period. This was revealed by a recent research by Loveholidays. They used anonymous data to analyse more…

UNWTO joins President Sánchez for revival of Spain’s tourism sector

Megha Paul Jun 19, 2020

The UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has welcomed Spain’s readiness to lead the way in restarting tourism. The head of the United Nations specialised agency attended a meeting with…

RIU unveils new healthcare service

Megha Paul Jun 17, 2020

The RIU Hotels & Resorts chain has launched RIU Protect, a new service for its customers that provides medical assistance to its guests, including any affected by COVID-19 infection…

Spain will be waiting for you: Country to reopen on June 21

Kristin Mariano Jun 17, 2020

Spain will reopen the country’s borders on June 21 – a week later than most European countries.

Hotelbeds signs activities partnership with Trip.com

Megha Paul Jun 5, 2020

Hotelbeds has announced a strategic partnership with Trip.com Group. The partnership will provide Trip.com with access to Hotelbeds’ Beyond the Bed portfolio of more than 18,000…

Partner content

How the COVID-19 crisis highlighted the importance of customer service

Alastair Newport Jun 4, 2020

Global aviation and travel tech firm Amadeus recently published its latest blog, reporting on how the Spanish based company based has supported the industry during the COVID-19 crisis.…

Restrictions on tourism travel starting to ease but caution remains: UNWTO

Megha Paul Jun 1, 2020

The world is slowly opening up again, new research from the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) indicates, with destinations cautiously easing travel restrictions introduced in…

UNWTO unveils global guidelines to reopen tourism

Megha Paul May 29, 2020

The UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has released a set of guidelines to help the tourism sector emerge stronger and more sustainably from COVID-19. The guidelines highlight the…

Hotelbeds launches ‘Safe Stay’ badge

Megha Paul May 28, 2020

Hotelbeds has announced plans to launch ‘Safe Stay’ in the coming weeks to help support the recovery of the travel industry. Safe Stay is a distribution filter category that displays in…

Health and environmental sustainability to be new hallmarks of Spain as it reopens to tourists in July

Megha Paul May 26, 2020

Pledging to guarantee the safety of visitors and the workforce, Spain’s prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, announced the country will reopen to international tourists from July. The leading…

Alitalia to resume services to New York and Spain in June

Megha Paul May 25, 2020

Alitalia will resume its nonstop Rome-New York service, direct flights to Spain (Rome-Madrid and Rome-Barcelona), and nonstop flights between Milan and southern Italy from 2 June. The…

Reinventing hotel revenue management with live travel demand data

Megha Paul May 22, 2020

Beonprice has announced that it will reinvent its revenue management system (RMS) to integrate consumer traveller trends, and destination demand insights to optimise rates and…

Spain will wait: TURESPAÑA new video keeps the destination front of mind for travellers

Kristin Mariano May 20, 2020

The Spain Tourism Board or TURESPAÑA has released a video to remind visitors of the amazing experiences to be enjoyed in Spain and that it will wait for them to return with a warm welcome…

UNWTO releases COVID-19 technical assistance package for tourism recovery

Megha Paul May 13, 2020

The World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has released a Tourism Recovery Technical Assistance Package to offer guidance to member states in response to COVID-19. The package is structured…

World tourism remains at a standstill as 100% of countries impose restrictions on travel

Megha Paul May 12, 2020

COVID-19 has placed the whole world on lockdown, with new research from the UN World Tourism Organisation showing that 100% of global destinations continue to have restrictions on travel…

RIU unveils manual for post-COVID hotels

Megha Paul May 11, 2020

RIU Hotels & Resorts has launched 17 protocols to guide operations in the hotels when they reopen post-COVID. The departments applying new measures in their everyday work include…

10 destinations where Brits want to go post lockdown

Kristin Mariano May 7, 2020

Coronavirus may have halted the nation’s short-term travel plans, but it hasn’t stopped British holidaymakers dreaming of the destinations they’ll visit as soon as the lockdown is lifted.

Hotelbeds unveils ‘Holidays for Heroes’ campaign to thank frontline COVID-19 professionals

Megha Paul Apr 28, 2020

Hotelbeds has announced the launch of a ‘Holidays for Heroes’ campaign in partnership with participating hotels. The objective of the campaign is to give exclusive discounts of up to 25%…

Agent alert: Jet2 gives tourists “something to look forward to”

Alastair Newport Apr 17, 2020

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have prescribed a dose of sunshine for next year, giving holidaymakers lots something to look forward to during these difficult days of lockdown and…

Tenerife Tourism kicks off social media campaign ‘Wellbeback’

Megha Paul Apr 8, 2020

Tenerife Tourism Corporation has been able to rekindle the emotions experienced by millions of travellers dreaming of enjoying the landscapes, beaches, gastronomic delights and leisure…

Traveller Made pioneers virtual global luxury travel show

Megha Paul Apr 8, 2020

Traveller Made, an international network of luxury travel designers, hosted a virtual Essence of Luxury Travel 2020 Show at the end of March. It was the first-ever global luxury travel…

Airbus to produce 3D-printed hospital visors in fight against Covid-19

Megha Paul Apr 6, 2020

The majority of Airbus sites in Spain have joined forces to produce 3D printed visor frames, providing healthcare personnel with individual protection equipment in the fight against…

UNWTO launches call for action for tourism’s COVID-19 mitigation and recovery

Megha Paul Apr 2, 2020

The UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has released a set of recommendations calling for urgent and strong support to help the global tourism sector not only recover from the…

Airlines and Aviation

Eurowings drastically reworks service schedule

Alastair Newport Apr 1, 2020

Due to the far-reaching impact of the coronavirus pandemic, the resulting drop in bookings and extensive border restrictions, Eurowings has adjusted its flight schedule. The flight…

IBTM Events unveils new online platform to showcase industry knowledge online

Megha Paul Mar 30, 2020

IBTM Events has unveiled a new online platform to showcase industry knowledge online, IBTM Connect. The service is a resource hub for business events professionals to access and share…

Healing Solutions: UNWTO calls on innovators and entrepreneurs to accelerate tourism recovery

Megha Paul Mar 26, 2020

In the face of an unprecedented challenge, the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), with the support of the World Health Organisation (WHO), calls on innovators and entrepreneurs to…

COVID-19 statement from UNWTO

Megha Paul Mar 18, 2020

As the COVID-19 situation evolves, the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) observes that full or partial travel restrictions have been – and continue to be – introduced across the…

More countries go into lockdown due to COVID-19

Kristin Mariano Mar 16, 2020

After the World Health Organisation announced COVID-19 as a pandemic and cases rise to an unstoppable rate, more countries go into lockdown.

Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel launches divorce deals

Megha Paul Mar 12, 2020

Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel, part of the Palladium Group, is launching Ushuaïa divorce packages aimed at new singles and their friends. The exclusive group package is available for stays…

“It’s not always the obvious choices”: The top global locations for LGBTQ+tourism

Alastair Newport Mar 6, 2020

Data from LGBTQ+ tour specialists TravelGay.com has uncovered the most popular global destinations for gay travellers, with Asian hotspots taking the lion's share of the top ten. Taking up…

Barenaked: Best nude beaches in the world

Kristin Mariano Feb 28, 2020

Alongside changing attitudes and growing body acceptance,‘Nakations’ or “naked vacations” are increasing in popularity.

“We cannot go back to square one, Teesside is on the up and so is our airport.”

Alastair Newport Feb 27, 2020

The first flights in nine years from Teesside International Airport to Alicante, Spain, have been announced by Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen. From 17 July 2020, flights will run twice…

5 road trips you should take in Spain

Kristin Mariano Feb 26, 2020

Villa Plus has teamed up with Avis Car Rental to explore the five most picturesque, Instagrammable road journeys in Spain that should be on every traveller’s bucket list.

Turkey to allow visa-free travel for six European countries

Megha Paul Feb 23, 2020

Citizens of six more European countries will be able to travel to Turkey without a visa starting next month. The country will lift visa restrictions for tourists from Austria, Belgium,…

January woes: Travel reservations to China plummet 79%

Megha Paul Feb 19, 2020

The coronavirus continues to wreak havoc on the world economy. The increase in cases throughout China and the uncertainty generated after the international alert declared by the World…

Hotelbeds unveils first corporate responsibility report

Megha Paul Feb 19, 2020

Hotelbeds has announced the publication of its first-ever corporate responsibility report. The report has been prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards…

Spain reigns for British holidaymakers

Megha Paul Feb 18, 2020

Bookings made by partner agents of luxury operator Classic Collection Holidays, have revealed that whilst Spain looks set to be the most popular destination once again this year, hot…

Iberia sponsors Spanish Olympic Committee

Megha Paul Feb 18, 2020

Alejandro Blanco, president of Spanish Olympic Committee and Luis Gallego, executive chairman of Iberia signed a new cooperation agreement focused on the upcoming summer Olympic Games in…

5 most popular destinations for UK business travellers

Kristin Mariano Feb 17, 2020

Latest research has revealed the locations most popular with those travelling overseas for business in the last year.

Barcelona hotel bookings drop after Mobile World Congress cancellation

Megha Paul Feb 14, 2020

Business on the books has dropped roughly 25% in select Barcelona hotels since the announced cancellation of the Mobile World Congress, according to preliminary data from Forward STAR,…

JAL: “We are aiming to differentiate our travel offers based on value rather than just price”

Alastair Newport Feb 14, 2020

Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced its ongoing retail transformation following the recent move by the airline to deepen its strategic distribution partnership with Amadeus, which has become…

Hotelbeds’ partners gain access over 15,300 travel buyers across Americas

Megha Paul Feb 5, 2020

Hotelbeds, the bedbank company, has provided an update to its hotel partners globally regarding the access it offers hotels to travel trade buyers in the Americas. It has confirmed that…

Amadeus snaps up Optym

Alastair Newport Feb 4, 2020

Amadeus has today announced its acquisition of the airline network planning software business Optym. The acquisition builds on a 3-year partnership between Amadeus and Optym that has seen…

5 best locations for a family-friendly holiday

Kristin Mariano Feb 4, 2020

Columbus Direct has analysed popular holiday destinations within a 5-hour, or less, flight time from London to show the best locations for a family-friendly holiday.

BestCities enter 20th anniversary as Madrid takes Global Forum baton

Megha Paul Jan 31, 2020

BestCities have reached a monumental 20th anniversary milestone off the back of the 2019 Copenhagen Global Forum success, as Madrid takes the baton for the year ahead. The alliance is…

These 5 countries are the most pet-friendly

Kristin Mariano Jan 31, 2020

Taxi2airport.com had a look at Booking.com for the number of accommodations that allows people to bring their pets along, for all the countries in Europe.

Palladium names new president and CEO

Megha Paul Jan 30, 2020

Palladium Hotel Group has named Abel Matutes Prats its new president and Jesús Sobrino as its new CEO. The company made the announcement as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. It…

Hotelbeds raises more than USD 8000 for WWF

Megha Paul Jan 29, 2020

Hotelbeds, bed bank company, has announced the money raised through its policy of replacing holiday season corporate gifts with a charity donation will this year go to the World Wildlife…

Weddings & Honeymoon

Best destinations to tie the knot

Kristin Mariano Jan 29, 2020

Travelling elsewhere for your wedding is often an ideal option. Aside from providing a picturesque backdrop when you say your vows, some destinations are relatively cheaper.

Budapest boosts Spanish seats with Wizz Air

Megha Paul Jan 27, 2020

Budapest Airport has announced a new route to the Spanish city of Santander with its home-based carrier Wizz Air. Launching the 1,846-kilometre sector with the low-cost carrier (LCC) on…

Family & Group Travel

Spanish long haul figures “sluggish” compared to global growth

Alastair Newport Jan 22, 2020

New data from ForwardKeys reveals that long-haul outbound travel from Spain, by independent travellers and small groups of up to five people, grew by just 1.3% in 2019 and forward bookings…

Thailand, Japan and Singapore top Hotelbeds’ Chinese New Year travel ranking

Megha Paul Jan 21, 2020

Hotelbeds, the bed bank company, has revealed the top international destinations for Chinese travellers during the seven-day Chinese New Year holiday period starting on 24 January.…

FITUR 2020: Sustainability, innovation and accessibility to take centre stage

Megha Paul Jan 17, 2020

The World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) will place innovation and sustainability at the top of the agenda as it returns to the International Tourism Fair in Madrid (FITUR). At the 40th…

Hotelbeds inks deal with citizenM Shanghai Hongqiao

Megha Paul Jan 15, 2020

Hotelbeds, the bedbank company, has announced a strategic partnership with citizenM Shanghai Hongqiao, a Shanghai based property of the Netherlands-based hotel chain citizenM. The deal…

Iconic Mandarin Oriental Ritz in Madrid set to open this summer

Megha Paul Jan 13, 2020

The iconic Hotel Ritz, Madrid is set to open in summer 2020 as Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid, following the most extensive restoration in its 110-year history. The hotel, which was…

Tourism start-ups focus on innovation and sustainability

Megha Paul Jan 13, 2020

The UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), in association with Globalia, a tourism group in Spain and Latin America, has selected the finalists of the 2nd Global Tourism Startup…

The Funded: Spanish travel tech Beonprice raises USD 2.78 million for AI-driven hospitality revenue software

Megha Paul Jan 10, 2020

Spanish-based Beonprice has announced closure of a Series A funding round of EUR 2.5 million (USD 2.78 million) with venture capital fund Adara Ventures as the lead investor.…

Etihad to launch Malaga flights next summer

Megha Paul Dec 30, 2019

Etihad Airways has announced that it will launch new seasonal flights to Malaga in Spain, to meet strong customer demand from across the UAE and GCC for flights to the popular gateway to…

Beach fun: Room Mate Group unveils new brand

Megha Paul Dec 26, 2019

Room Mate Hotels, the Spanish hotel chain founded and led by Kike Sarasola, is launching its latest brand – Room Mate Beach Hotels. Next summer, it will open its first beachfront hotel –…

No need to fly to space for these five Star Wars filming locations

Kristin Mariano Dec 24, 2019

If you are a big fan of the Star Wars saga and want to feel The Force after watching the latest movie The Rise of Skywalker, then keep the obsession going by holidaying at locations featured…

Gaining ground: OYO Hotels consolidates footprint in Spain, adds over 100 hotels

Megha Paul Dec 23, 2019

OYO Hotels & Homes has announced in a brief period of 12 months, it has added over 100 hotels to its chain in Spain. After offering quality living spaces to travellers across India,…

Where are Brits flying to this Christmas?

Kristin Mariano Dec 23, 2019

As Christmas is just a few days away, people are packing their bags gearing for the holidays. Peer-to-peer travel money provider WeSwap has commissioned research from its 500,000-strong…

MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions)

9 MICE locations in Spain that will elevate your next event

Kristin Mariano Dec 13, 2019

From vibrant big cities to historically and culturally fascinating towns and countryside, there are a lot of MICE locations in Spain.

Travel tech this week: The ‘Everyday Essential’ app and more

Kristin Mariano Dec 12, 2019

Omio is awarded by Google as 'Everyday Essential' app. An ex-Googler created a car subscription start-up, Carasti.

May the best ideas win: It’s time to break down silos to create better journeys

Alastair Newport Dec 6, 2019

Remember when online shopping still made us nervous? When online dating seemed outlandish at best and dangerous at worse? Or how normal it was to walk to a rental store to watch a movie?…

Top 10 destinations for UK holidaymakers in 2020

Kristin Mariano Dec 3, 2019

Online travel company eDreams ODIGEO has analysed booking data from over 18 million customers to predict the top destinations consumers are set to visit next year in its annual European…

Perth Airport: “The passenger experience is paramount”

Alastair Newport Dec 2, 2019

Perth Airport has announced that it has signed up to an extensive upgrade of its passenger handling system, with existing partner -- Spanish firm, Amadeus. Perth currently processes close…