AmaWaterways has entered a new era, unveiling a refreshed global brand identity that invites travellers to “Follow Their Own Current” and experience river cruising in a more personal, immersive way. Now in its 23rd year, with 29 ships sailing across four continents, the line’s new look has been crafted to honour its heritage while signalling ambitious growth and a future fleet of more than 40 ships by 2030.

A brand refresh shaped by guests

The rebrand is anchored in a modernised visual identity: a refined logo inspired by AmaWaterways’ musical heritage, a vibrant colour palette with destination‑specific accents, and authentic imagery featuring real guests and crew. The updated aesthetic reflects what today’s travellers say they value most – premium comfort, genuine human connection and experiences that feel tailored both onboard and ashore.

“There is a warmth and elegance to the new colours, and a more authentic way in which we are expressing ourselves that feels true to the AmaWaterways spirit,” says CEO Catherine Powell, noting that the brand refresh is designed to “cut through” and clearly communicate what the company stands for. At its heart, the new identity is about bringing AmaWaterways’ personality, passion and sense of discovery to life more clearly than ever.

“Follow Their Own Current”: journeys centred on the traveller

The new tagline, “Follow Their Own Current”, speaks to AmaWaterways’ philosophy of creating journeys that reflect what moves each traveller, not just ticking off destinations. Whether that means joining an expertly guided excursion, lingering in a café ashore or simply watching the river drift by from a balcony, guests are encouraged to shape a river cruise that matches their own rhythm.​ Co‑founder and Chief Brand Ambassador Kristin Karst describes the moment as a celebration of how far the brand has come while staying true to its original spirit of heartfelt service and cultural connection. She highlights that every stage of AmaWaterways’ journey – from its first sailings to its global community today – has been guided by a desire to create spaces where guests feel genuinely cared for.

A redesigned website for modern river cruisers

Alongside the new visual identity, AmaWaterways has launched a redesigned website that blends inspiring storytelling with streamlined functionality. The site offers richer imagery, curated itinerary highlights and enhanced booking tools, making it easier for travellers and advisors to explore destinations, compare river journeys and plan cruise‑and‑land packages.

The digital experience is intentionally more intuitive and visually immersive, designed to help guests dream, research and book in one place – whether they are new to river cruising or returning to discover a different region. Travel advisors also benefit from clearer information and better tools to match clients with the right sailing.

Fleet growth and new rivers on the horizon

The rebrand coincides with a significant period of growth for AmaWaterways as it accelerates fleet expansion towards more than 40 ships by 2030. Recent milestones include two newly launched ships on Colombia’s Magdalena River, extending the brand’s footprint into South America. In Europe and Asia, highlights include the upcoming AmaSofia on the Danube, a new ship on the Mekong River debuting in 2027, and the future launches of AmaFiora and AmaRudi, the line’s second double‑width vessel also slated for 2027.

These additions build on AmaWaterways’ existing presence on iconic rivers such as the Rhine, Danube, Douro, Mekong, Nile and Chobe, giving guests even more ways to experience its “Journeys That Move You” across multiple continents.

A new visual chapter – same heartfelt ethos

While the logo, colours and digital touchpoints may look new, AmaWaterways emphasises that its core remains unchanged: personalised service, authentic immersion and the sense of ease that comes from knowing every detail has been thoughtfully considered. From onboard hospitality to shore excursions that connect guests with local traditions and communities, the refreshed brand identity is intended to highlight – not replace – the values that have defined the line for over two decades.​

A new library of images and visual assets is now available for media and partners to tell this next chapter in the AmaWaterways story. Travellers wishing to explore itineraries or reserve a river cruise and land package can visit amawaterways.co.uk or contact AmaWaterways directly by phone.

Marriott Bonvoy is kicking off 2026 with a powerful new global promotion, giving members more reasons—and more rewards—to explore its expansive portfolio of over 30 hotel brands across 10,000 destinations worldwide. Designed to accelerate earning potential while inspiring travellers to discover new styles of stays, the promotion runs from February 25 to May 10, 2026, with registration open now through April 26.

A Promotion Built for Explorers

Registered Marriott Bonvoy members will earn 2,500 bonus points on every stay, plus one bonus Elite Night Credit for each different Marriott Bonvoy brand they experience during the promotional period. Whether it’s a luxury escape, a boutique city break, a family getaway, or an adventure-focused stay, the offer encourages travellers to diversify their journeys while fast-tracking their status.

This structure rewards both frequent travellers and those looking to try something new—perfect for members aiming to reach the next Elite tier faster.

A Portfolio Designed for Every Travel Style

With more than 30 brands spanning luxury, lifestyle, boutique, extended-stay, and resort categories, Marriott Bonvoy’s global footprint offers endless possibilities. From JW Marriott and The Luxury Collection to Moxy, AC Hotels, and Element, members can curate a personalised journey while maximising their rewards.

The promotion excludes stays at BVLGARI, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Marriott Executive Apartments®, and owner-occupied weeks at Marriott Vacation Club® and associated residence clubs.

Key Dates & Details

•              Registration: Open now through April 26, 2026

•              Earning Period: Eligible paid nights from February 25 to May 10, 2026

•              Eligible Stays: Must be booked on a points-eligible (“Qualifying Rate”) basis

•              Not Eligible: Award Redemption Stays and select brands/residence clubs

Members can register for the promotion HERE, with additional hi-res assets available for media use.

Why This Matters for Travellers

This promotion is ideal for:

•              Travellers planning multi-city or multi-brand itineraries

•              Members aiming to elevate their Elite status before peak travel season

•              Those seeking more value from short stays or frequent business travel

•              Explorers wanting to experience new hotel brands without sacrificing rewards

With bonus points stacking on every stay and Elite Night Credits tied to brand variety, the offer is one of Marriott Bonvoy’s most flexible and rewarding promotions to date.

Soccer fans booking a holiday at sea with MSC Cruises in 2026 will not miss a single kick, with the line confirming it will show every match of this summer’s Global Soccer Tournament live across its entire fleet. From June 11 to July 19, 2026, guests can follow all the action while sailing to bucket‑list destinations in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and beyond.

Every match, every ship

A total of 48 national teams will compete in the 2026 tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States in the first‑ever tri‑nation championship. MSC Cruises will broadcast every match live on all of its ships, ensuring fans can keep up with their team wherever they are in the world.

Whether guests are on a week‑long Mediterranean sailing or exploring tropical islands in the Caribbean, they can enjoy a front‑row seat to one of the year’s most anticipated sporting events without sacrificing their cruise holiday.

Big‑screen viewing and fan‑friendly venues

Matches will be shown in a variety of onboard venues designed to create a stadium‑style atmosphere at sea. Guests can catch games in:

• Lively sports bars
• Casino bars
• Lounges and theatres
• On giant poolside LED screens

These spaces will host fans from around the world, turning each ship into a floating fan zone complete with cheers, celebrations and shared match‑day moments.

Tournament‑themed fun for all ages

Beyond live broadcasts, MSC Cruises is planning a programme of football‑themed activities to keep the tournament buzz going between kick‑offs. Guests can look forward to:

• Interactive games and challenges
• Themed quizzes
• Family‑friendly activities suitable for all ages

This added entertainment makes the 2026 summer season particularly appealing for sports‑loving families and groups of friends who want both a great holiday and full tournament coverage.

Cruise the world while you cheer

While following the tournament, guests still enjoy MSC Cruises’ full onboard experience: gourmet dining, world‑class entertainment, kids’ and teens’ clubs, plus spa and wellness facilities. It means travellers can wake up in a new destination, spend the day exploring ashore, and be back on board in time to watch the evening match with a drink in hand.

From sun‑drenched pool decks in the Caribbean to sunset sailaways in the Mediterranean, MSC Cruises offers one of the most immersive ways to experience the 2026 Global Soccer Tournament without staying on land.

For more details on itineraries during the tournament window and to plan a summer 2026 sailing, guests can visit MSC Cruises’ dedicated summer cruises and soccer tournament pages.

Click here to learn more about MSC Cruises’ summer 2026 sailings.

Kamalaya enters its third decade with a renewed commitment to integrative healing, longevity, and transformative wellbeing—making 2026 one of the most compelling times to visit this globally awarded sanctuary on Koh Samui. Set among granite boulders, jungle canopies, and sweeping ocean views, Kamalaya’s natural landscape remains central to its philosophy: healing begins with place, and deepens through practice.

As the sanctuary evolves, it continues to blend ancient Eastern wisdom with contemporary Western medical research, supported by a multidisciplinary team of naturopaths, TCM practitioners, yoga teachers, fitness experts, meditation specialists, and Life Enhancement Mentors. This integrated approach has earned Kamalaya more than 80 international awards and a reputation as one of the world’s leading wellness destinations.

These five new and expanded offerings highlight why now is the perfect moment to return—or to experience Kamalaya for the first time.

Cognitive House & Brain Enhancement Programme

Kamalaya’s Cognitive House, launched in 2025, marks a major step into advanced neuroscience-led wellness. This dedicated space delivers targeted therapies including Neuro-Lymphatic Therapy, Neurofeedback, Neuromodulation, and Transcranial Photobiomodulation, all woven into Kamalaya’s holistic framework.

The Brain Enhancement programme builds on this foundation with a personalised pathway designed to improve cognitive performance, focus, and long-term brain health. Guests experience a blend of cognitive therapies, IV infusions, movement practices, and holistic activities—positioning Kamalaya at the forefront of integrative brain optimisation.

Sleep Enhancement Programme

Recognising that restorative sleep is the cornerstone of long-term wellbeing, Kamalaya’s Sleep Enhancement programme addresses both the symptoms and root causes of sleep disruption. The programme integrates sleep-supportive nutrition, herbal therapies, acupuncture, cognitive treatments, and mind–body practices.

Advanced therapies such as gentle brain stimulation, ozone therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy help rebalance brainwave activity and support cellular repair. Guests leave with improved sleep quality and sustainable rituals that support emotional balance and deep rest long after their stay.

Personal Wellness Guardians

Kamalaya’s Personal Wellness Guardians extend the sanctuary’s care far beyond the retreat itself. Offering personalised support across multiple time zones, these dedicated guides help guests prepare for their stay, navigate their programme on-site, and integrate new practices into daily life for up to a year after departure.

This continuity of care ensures that the benefits of a Kamalaya journey are not only profound but lasting.

Radiant Bliss: Women’s Health at Every Life Stage

Radiant Bliss, introduced in late 2023, offers a deeply personalised approach to women’s health through key hormonal, emotional, and physical transitions. The programme begins with essential health marker assessments and integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine, tailored supplementation, somatic practices, and breathwork.

Designed to support women through fertility, motherhood, perimenopause, menopause, and beyond, Radiant Bliss provides a nurturing framework for balance, renewal, and long-term vitality.

Spiritual Practices and Inner Work

Kamalaya’s spiritual offerings draw from ancient yogic and Vedic traditions, creating space for reflection, grounding, and inner transformation. Guests can participate in private fire ceremonies, mantra chanting, meditation, Kriya Yoga, and traditional cleansing rituals.

Guided by experienced spiritual teachers, these practices support emotional clarity and meaningful transition, offering tools that continue to resonate long after the retreat ends.

Kamalaya’s evolution reflects a sanctuary that honours its roots while embracing the future of integrative wellness. With new programmes, expanded expertise, and a deepened commitment to longevity and holistic healing, there has never been a more powerful time to visit.

Holland America Line is making it easier than ever for Australian and New Zealand travellers to secure their next escape at sea, with a limited-time AU$25 deposit per person offer on select 2026 and 2027 sailings. Valid 19–26 February 2026, this deal lets you lock in a future cruise on one of the line’s most popular itineraries without a big upfront payment – ideal if you want flexibility, but don’t want to miss out on the best dates and cabins.

$25 deposit: how the offer works

For one week only, guests in Australia and New Zealand can reserve select Holland America Line cruises with a reduced, non-refundable AU$25pp deposit instead of the usual higher upfront amount. The offer applies to eligible 2026 and 2027 cruises and cruisetours, excluding Grand Voyages and very short sailings, giving you a broad choice of destinations and durations.

It’s designed for travellers who like to plan ahead but also value cash flow: you secure your preferred sailing now and pay the balance closer to the final payment date, under Holland America Line’s standard cancellation terms.​

Wave Season benefits still included

Crucially, the AU$25 deposit deal doesn’t replace Holland America Line’s existing Wave Season value – it sits on top of it. Guests booking on eligible fares during the promotion window will continue to enjoy standout inclusions such as:

• Have It All fare inclusions* – bundling shore excursion credit, drinks package, specialty dining nights and Wi‑Fi into one premium fare, often at 50%+ less than buying each extra separately.
• Stateroom upgrades# – move up to a higher stateroom category on select sailings, subject to availability.
• Reduced kids’ fares on select cruises~ – making it more affordable for families to sail together.
• Up to US$400 onboard credit per stateroom^ – which can be used towards spa treatments, drinks, specialty dining or shopping on board, depending on voyage length.
• Alaska bonus: Up to US$200 shore excursion credit per stateroom on select Alaska cruises and cruisetours using promo code #1ALASKA26, giving you extra value on glacier flights, wildlife viewing and rail journeys.

Combined, these perks can significantly reduce your onboard spend, especially if you usually purchase drinks packages, Wi‑Fi and shore excursions separately.

Why Holland America Line appeals to Australian and Kiwi cruisers

Founded in Rotterdam in 1873, Holland America Line brings a distinctive “Dutch Touch” to its fleet – from elegant, mid-sized ships to European design cues and thoughtful service. The line pairs its heritage with deep destination expertise, particularly in Alaska, where it’s widely recognised as one of the longest‑running and most experienced cruise operators, thanks in part to its Westours acquisition and land operations in the region.

Today, the fleet of premium, mid‑sized ships visits hundreds of ports across nearly every continent, from Europe and the Caribbean to Asia, Australia and North America. For Australians and New Zealanders, that translates to:

• Itineraries that feel immersive rather than rushed, with longer days in port and well‑curated shore experiences.​
• A relaxed, premium atmosphere – more classic ocean cruising than party‑ship.
• Strong coverage in Alaska, Europe and the Caribbean, which remain among the most popular long‑haul cruise destinations for this market.

“Value and flexibility” for forward planners

Commenting on the AU$25 deposit offer, Alex Pikardt, Senior Director of Sales at Holland America Line, notes that travellers are increasingly looking for both value and flexibility when planning longer‑term holidays. A low deposit makes it much easier to commit to a special trip – whether that’s sailing past Alaska’s glaciers, wandering Europe’s historic ports, or unwinding under the Caribbean sun – without tying up a large sum of money months or years in advance.

Because this promotion is time‑limited and capacity‑controlled, it’s particularly attractive if you:

• Want a specific ship, cabin type or date, especially during peak seasons.
• Are planning a family or multi‑generational trip and need time to coordinate everyone.
• Have your heart set on Alaska or a longer itinerary in 2026 or 2027 and don’t want to risk missing out.

My conclusion: a smart way to “park” your dream cruise

In a market where cruise prices and demand have been trending upwards, being able to lock in a 2026 or 2027 Holland America Line sailing for just AU$25 per person is a compelling proposition – especially when it still includes rich Wave Season benefits like Have It All extras, upgrades and onboard credit.

If you’ve been sitting on the fence about an Alaska cruisetour, a longer Europe itinerary or a classic Caribbean escape, this is exactly the kind of offer that lets you reserve your spot now and fine‑tune the details later, without the usual upfront hit to your travel budget. For Australian and New Zealander cruisers who like to plan ahead – but also like to keep their options open – it’s a smart, low‑risk way to make sure your next memorable voyage is already on the calendar.

Marriott International has appointed Robert Pattenden as the new general manager of The Singapore EDITION.

Pattenden’s tenure with EDITION began at The Sanya EDITION, where he progressed from director of operations to hotel manager, playing an instrumental role in elevating the guest experience.

In 2023, he advanced to general manager of W Chengdu, navigating the hotel through China’s evolving luxury hospitality landscape.

Getting to know Robert Pattenden

Pattenden heads into Singapore from Chengdu where, as stated above, he helmed W Chengdu.

He brought extensive luxury hospitality expertise and a distinguished track record in operational leadership to that particular post.

Beyond recent posts, Pattenden’s career spans senior positions across China, including leadership roles at The Westin Xi’an and Intercontinental Sanya Resort, followed by key assignments at Raffles Hainan Clear Water Bay and Shangri-La Pudong, Shanghai.

Outside the hotel, he is a devoted family man with a passion for sports, dogs, as well as leading an active lifestyle.

Chapman Freeborn’s UAE office has reported an impressive start to 2026, surpassing its monthly targets across passenger, cargo, and ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) charter operations in January. This achievement marks a promising beginning for the company’s operations in the IMEA (India, Middle East, and Africa) region.

The passenger charter division, under the leadership of Claudia Krajhanzl, achieved 140% of its January target. Meanwhile, the cargo division, led by Gerhard Coetzee, reached 170% of its monthly target, driven by regional logistics demand and intercontinental shipments. The ACMI division, headed by Daniel Huggins, recorded 107% of its target, reflecting ongoing airline demand for short-term capacity.

Linas Dovydenas, President of IMEA at Chapman Freeborn, commented, “The strong start to the year reflects both market demand and the experience of our regional teams.” He added that these results provide confidence in the UAE operations’ ability to support evolving charter aviation needs.

Chapman Freeborn anticipates continued dynamic charter demand across the IMEA region throughout 2026, aligning with the company’s broader operational goals. The firm expects airlines, logistics operators, and corporate customers to rely on flexible charter capacity to meet changing requirements.

With over 50 years of experience, Chapman Freeborn is part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider, offering a wide range of aviation solutions globally

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

Air Transat, recently named the 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax, has launched new seasonal routes from several Canadian cities, enhancing access to popular sun destinations. The airline has introduced nonstop flights from Quebec City, Windsor, Charlottetown, and Fredericton, offering travellers from Eastern Canada and Southern Ontario more options for winter getaways.

The new route from Quebec City to Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe, began on 18 February, marking Air Transat as the only airline to provide nonstop service between these cities. This service will operate every Wednesday until 29 April 2026, using the Airbus A321LR, known for its efficiency and comfort. Stéphane Poirier, President and CEO of Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport, expressed enthusiasm for the new service, highlighting its alignment with the airport’s commitment to offering diverse travel options.

Additional routes include Windsor to Punta Cana, which commenced on 19 December 2025, with flights every Friday until 10 April 2026. Charlottetown and Fredericton both launched services to Cancún on 18 February 2026, with weekly flights every Wednesday until 22 April 2026. These routes are designed to provide convenience and simplicity for holidaymakers, with all-inclusive packages available.

Mark Galvin, President and CEO of Windsor International Airport, praised the partnership with Air Transat, noting the positive reception from the local community. Doug Newson, CEO of Charlottetown Airport Authority, and Jacques Fournier, Director of Commercial Development at Fredericton International Airport Authority, echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the expanded travel options and strengthened partnerships.

Founded in Montreal in 1987, Air Transat is a leading travel brand with a focus on international destinations. It operates a fleet of energy-efficient aircraft and employs 5,000 people, committed to bringing people closer together

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

Uber for Business is providing its users with a complimentary one-year subscription to Uber One, Uber’s premium membership service. This initiative aims to enhance employee benefits by offering discounts on personal trips, free food deliveries, and exclusive offers. The offer is available to users whose employers are signed up to Uber for Business.

Research conducted by Uber for Business revealed that 48% of employees consider expanded perks, such as meal vouchers and discounts, crucial when deciding on employment. The Uber One membership allows users to earn up to 10% credit on rides, trains, and flights, which can be used for personal trips. Additionally, members benefit from free delivery on eligible food and grocery orders and reduced service fees of up to 60% on Uber Eats.

Andrew Laughlan, Head of Enterprise UK at Uber for Business, stated, “The Uber One offer is great news for all Uber for Business users. It’s providing a full year of perks, which will help them make big savings on various food orders, travel experiences and much more. It’s also fantastic for employers as it provides all these additional employee benefits at no extra cost.”

Uber for Business, launched in 2014, operates in over 70 countries and 10,000 cities, assisting 170,000 organisations in streamlining business travel and enhancing employee wellbeing. This new offer is expected to further support organisations in improving staff satisfaction and retention

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

Loganair, the UK’s leading regional airline, has celebrated a significant achievement, having transported 250,000 passengers on its route between Liverpool John Lennon Airport and the Isle of Man. Since its inception in 2020, the service has operated twice-daily weekday flights, providing a crucial link for both business and leisure travellers across the Irish Sea.

The airline, recognised as the UK’s most punctual major airline by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in 2025, continues to enhance regional connectivity. Ronnie Matheson, Loganair’s chief commercial officer, highlighted the milestone as evidence of the ongoing demand for dependable regional air travel. “We’re proud to play a part in linking communities and supporting local economies on both sides of the Irish Sea,” he stated.

Paul Winfield, director of aviation development at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, expressed delight at reaching this milestone, emphasising the route’s importance in connecting the two markets. The service not only facilitates access to the Isle of Man’s rich cultural and natural attractions but also supports economic ties.

Loganair’s passengers benefit from a 21kg baggage allowance as standard, enhancing the travel experience for longer stays and multi-stop trips. With 81% of its flights arriving and departing on time, Loganair’s punctuality surpasses the industry average of 72%, according to the CAA’s analysis of the top 20 airlines at UK airports. This achievement underscores Loganair’s commitment to providing reliable and efficient service

This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.