Following the success of the 2025 World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit in Rome, Italy, a record 15 destinations across four continents have formally expressed interest, signalling renewed confidence in the global Travel & Tourism sector.

While Malta will be hosting the next edition of the Summit this October, the 15 countries who have voiced their interest are Bahamas, Bahrain, Canada, Colombia, Greece, India, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Monaco, Morocco, Puerto Rico, South Korea, Turkey, and the United States.

For WTTC president and chief executive Gloria Guevara, this surge in interest reflects how the global travel and tourism sector continues to grow and gain strength.

She said: “The level of interest we are seeing reflects the strength and resilience of Travel & Tourism worldwide. Hosting a WTTC Global Summit is a powerful statement of economic ambition. It brings global leaders together to shape policy, attract investment and drive sustainable long-term growth.” 

Setting the path for the global industry

The WTTC hosts an industry-leading Global Summit each year, bringing together hundreds of chief executives, government ministers and investors to shape the future of one of the world’s fastest growing economic sectors. 

Over three days, leaders debate technology, talent, cross-border travel, sustainability, digital transformation, workforce development, and long-term investment priorities. 

With global Travel & Tourism GDP forecast to grow by 6.7 percent in 2025 and creating at least one in four new jobs worldwide, destinations are increasingly seeking to align themselves with the sector’s economic resurgence.

Indonesian hospitality management firm Archipelago marks the most sacred month of the Muslim calendar with Blessings of Ramadan.

As Ramadan is a special time filled with warmth, togetherness, and spiritual reflection, celebrated by Muslims around the world, this new curated offering is meant to enhance the guest experience with a range of special promotions available from February to March 2026. 

As Archipelago’s chief commercial officer Chris Legaspi puts it: “Ramadan is a moment filled with togetherness and meaning. Through the Blessings of Ramadan, Archipelago presents a series of curated offerings designed to support guests’ needs throughout the holy month, from stay experiences to moments of iftar and sharing. We hope this initiative provides comfort and convenience, enabling guests to observe the holy month with greater devotion while enjoying quality time with family and loved ones. This initiative reflects our commitment to delivering services that are both relevant and valuable to every guest.”

Meaningful stays

The promotion includes special room discounts at 124 hotels, Ramadan room packages at 67 hotels, iftar packages at 88 hotels, and Ramadan hampers offered by 29 Archipelago hotels across various destinations in Indonesia.

As part of the Blessings of Ramadan programme, Archipelago offers a 30 percent discount on room rates at 124 hotels across various destinations in Indonesia. 

This promotion is available for booking from 20th February to 22nd March, with stay periods from 20th February to 31st.

This offer provides guests with greater flexibility in planning their travels during Ramadan, whether for a relaxing staycation, a business trip, or quality time with family. 

With comfortable surroundings and warm hospitality, each Archipelago property enhances the stay experience in a way that reflects the meaningful spirit of Ramadan.

A total of 67 hotels offer Ramadan Room Packages designed to complement the stay experience during the holy month. 

Tailored to reflect the character of each property, these packages may include sahur, iftar, and various additional benefits, providing comfort and convenience in one seamless and memorable experience.

For a flavourful season

As many as 88 hotels present Iftar Packages featuring diverse concepts and culinary selections, creating a warm setting for breaking the fast with family, friends, or colleagues. 

More than just a meal, the experience is designed as a meaningful occasion to strengthen connections and share the joy of Ramadan through a variety of delightful dishes.

At the same time, 29 Archipelago properties are offering Ramadan Hampers, elegantly packaged and filled with a curated selection of premium delicacies, making them an ideal choice to share with family, friends, and business partners. 

Through these hampers, the spirit of giving is preserved, bringing meaningful joy throughout the holy month.

Hold onto your outback hats, Aussies – Qantas is rewriting the travel map with the world’s first direct flights from Australia to Las Vegas, slashing up to five hours off your journey by skipping those soul-crushing US connections. Launching December 29, 2026, this seasonal Sydney-Las Vegas route on the sleek Boeing 787 Dreamliner runs through March 12, 2027, landing you in Sin City just in time for CES tech madness and the NRL Season Kick-Off Festival.

Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace calls it a no-brainer: “Aussies’ appetite for international travel is insatiable,” and with their shiny fleet renewal, they’re unleashing routes like this gem – the airline’s 101st destination and eighth in the Americas. Economy return fares start at a steal: AUD$1,099. Book now and score double Qantas Points on hotels/packages till March 2!

Non-Stop to Neon Nirvana: 14 Hours of Dreamliner Bliss

Say goodbye to Dallas layovers and hello to QF55: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from Sydney (SYD) at 9:00pm, touching down in Las Vegas (LAS) at 3:55pm (13h55m flight time). Three times weekly perfection on the fuel-efficient 787, with its lie-flat beds, mood lighting and epic inflight entertainment to keep the jetlag gremlins at bay.

This isn’t just a flight; it’s your golden ticket to Vegas’ electric vibe – world-class residencies (think residencies from music royalty), 24/7 energy, and easy day trips to the Grand Canyon or Southwest USA’s red-rock wonders. Perfect for footy fans too: Qantas has been chartering NRL fan flights for years (this week’s are already packed), making Vegas their Aussie sports mecca.

Why Vegas Loves Aussies (And Vice Versa)

Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority CEO Steve Hill is thrilled: Australia is their #2 overseas market (250,000+ visitors yearly), and this direct link was the missing piece. “More than 250,000 Australians visit each year, drawn by the breadth and depth of experiences.” Meanwhile, Aussie Trade Minister Don Farrell cheers the two-way traffic: 745,000 Americans hit Australia last year, and this route supercharges that exchange.

Time it right for Vegas’ blockbuster calendar: CES (world’s biggest tech expo), NRL’s Las Vegas Festival (Aussie rules invading Nevada), and endless residencies from global superstars. From neon Strip shenanigans to canyon road trips, it’s the ultimate escape from Sydney’s winter chill.

Book Now: Fares, Points and Pro Tips

• Return Economy from AUD$1,099 – snag it today!
• Double Qantas Points on hotels/holidays (book by March 2, travel by March 2027). Frequent Flyer must-haves.
• Flights pending gov/regulatory nods, but Qantas’ track record screams green light.

This historic hop cements Qantas as the king of direct Down Under-to-USA dreams, joining LA, San Francisco, Honolulu and more. Whether you’re chasing slots, shows, sports or canyons, Vegas just got a whole lot closer – and infinitely more civilised. Who’s packing first?

Windstar Cruises has opened bookings for its Winter 2027–2028 season, unveiling 21 new itineraries and more than 230 sailing dates across Tahiti, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, the Canary Islands, Morocco, Canada and New England. The six‑yacht program, running from September 2027 to April 2028, leans into Windstar’s hallmark: small‑ship journeys with deeper cultural immersion and access to ports larger ships can’t reach.

Why book Winter 2027–2028 now?

Demand for small‑ship cruising continues to grow as travellers seek uncrowded destinations, longer stays and more immersive itineraries, while also planning premium trips further in advance to secure the best cabins and rare routes. Windstar’s new season taps into that trend with:

• One‑season‑only itineraries that won’t be repeated.
• Expanded longer voyages and Star Collector sailings.
• Access to smaller ports and city centres unavailable to large ships.

To launch the program, Windstar is offering an Early Booking Offer on select Winter 2027–2028 sailings: book by April 30, 2026 and receive a complimentary All‑Inclusive experience (Wi‑Fi, select unlimited wine, beer and cocktails, and gratuities), US$100 onboard credit per guest, and the chance to save an extra 5% when paying in full at booking. Fares will rise as sailings fill.

What makes Windstar’s small ships different?

Windstar’s yachts carry just 148 to 342 guests, creating a feel much closer to a private yacht than a traditional cruise ship. This compact size delivers several advantages:

• The ability to dock closer to historic city centres and navigate narrow waterways.
• Calls at smaller harbours and islands that mega‑ships can’t access.
• Longer days in port and late‑evening departures, giving guests time to explore after day‑trippers have left.

In warm regions, many ships feature a watersports marina that opens directly from the stern, letting guests swim, paddleboard, kayak or relax on floating loungers straight from the yacht.

Fleet highlights include classic sailing ships and all‑suite motor yachts, with new build Star Seeker bringing advanced environmental systems and the brand’s signature blend of spacious suites, open decks and personalised service.

Every Windstar voyage includes:

• Complimentary specialty dining, with menus crafted in partnership with the James Beard Foundation.
• 24‑hour room service.
• A signature open‑air deck barbecue and champagne welcome.
• Complimentary access to the fitness centre, whirlpools, sauna and yoga classes.

Select itineraries also feature Destination Discovery Events—one‑night, ashore experiences that combine local cuisine, music and performance in special venues not normally open to cruise guests.

Winter 2027–2028 regional highlights

South Pacific with Star Breeze

Winter 2027–2028 includes a one‑season‑only South Pacific deployment as Star Breeze repositions to and from drydock in Singapore—an opportunity Windstar does not plan to repeat. Standout sailings include:

• A 14‑day Papeete–Lautoka voyage visiting Bora Bora, Moorea, the Cook Islands and Tonga.
• A 24‑day Fiji–Singapore journey via Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Indonesia, with an overnight in Bali.
• The option to combine select segments into a 53‑day crossing between French Polynesia and Singapore.

Year‑round Tahiti also expands as Wind Star joins Star Breeze as the second yacht based in French Polynesia in 2027.

Latin America with Star Pride

Windstar’s signature Costa Rica and Panama Canal cruises return on Star Pride, with itineraries centred on nature, rainforests and the engineering marvel of the canal. Guests can:

• Experience a daytime, narrated Panama Canal transit with expert commentary.
• Explore national parks and wildlife‑rich regions in Costa Rica and beyond.
• Add popular cruise tours to Machu Picchu and Arenal Volcano, both of which sell quickly.

Canary Islands & Morocco with Wind Spirit\

A new itinerary sees Wind Spirit sail from Málaga in southern Spain to Tenerife in the Canary Islands, with extended exploration in Morocco, including two full days in Casablanca. The season also brings back the Hidden Gems of the Canary Islands & Madeira route, including a New Year’s Celebration with an overnight in Madeira timed for the island’s world‑famous fireworks.

Asia with Star Seeker

New yacht Star Seeker anchors an expanded Asia program, featuring:

• Grand Japan routes.
• Southeast Asia sailings and longer Star Collector voyages of 20–41 days.
• Small‑ship docking in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok, plus calls at lesser‑visited islands.
• Overland tours to Angkor Wat, Hanoi and Chiang Mai.

Caribbean with Star Pride, Star Legend and Wind Surf

Winter in the Caribbean features both all‑suite yachts and classic sailing ships, mixing relaxed island‑hopping with access to smaller harbours and tucked‑away bays. Guests can enjoy:

• Direct marina access for water sports.
• Windstar’s Signature Beach Party.
• New routes through the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao) and the British Virgin Islands.

Canada & New England with Star Pride

Late‑season sailings in Canada & New England offer a different take on North America’s east coast. Highlights include:

• An updated Southeast Canada Exploration with an overnight in Halifax.
• A Celtic Colours Festival voyage timed to the celebrated Cape Breton event.
• The return of Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure.
• Greenland: North Atlantic Odyssey from Reykjavík to Boston.

Experiences that make these voyages memorable

Across regions, Windstar’s Winter 2027–2028 program is built around experiences that feel personal and unhurried. Guests might:

• Dive straight into turquoise water from the ship’s marina platform.
• Join a beach barbecue under the stars.
• Stay ashore late into the evening, when most larger ships and day‑trippers have gone.

Expert‑led components—such as narrated Panama Canal transits, wildlife‑focused itineraries and multi‑day overland journeys to Machu Picchu, Angkor Wat and Hanoi—add depth and context, turning each voyage into a layered story rather than a checklist of ports.

How to book Windstar’s Winter 2027–2028 cruises

Winter 2027–2028 voyages are on sale now, with the Early Booking Offer available on select sailings until April 30, 2026. Booking early gives you:

• The best fares of the season.
• First pick of suites and staterooms.
• Extra value via All‑Inclusive perks, onboard credit and a potential 5% pay‑in‑full savings.

Travellers can book online at windstarcruises.com, through a preferred travel advisor, by calling Windstar directly, or by requesting a call from a Windstar vacation planner.

As a new year dawns on the edge of Ranthambore National Park, Aman-i-Khás is stepping into a fresh chapter with expanded accommodations and a rich line-up of new, wilderness-led experiences. The intimate safari camp now features 13 tented pavilions, following the introduction of two Grand Tented Pool Pavilions and one Tented Pool Pavilion, reinforcing Aman’s reputation for elevated comfort and deep seclusion in nature.

New Grand Tented Pool Pavilions

At 256 square metres, the new Grand Tented Pool Pavilions are now the largest accommodation category at Aman-i-Khás, offering a stay that feels closer to a grand hotel suite than a traditional safari tent—yet still entirely beneath billowing canvas. Each pavilion includes a temperature‑controlled outdoor pool, an enclosed open‑air sundeck, generous living and dining areas, and a spa-style bathroom designed for lingering post-safari evenings.

A separate Tented Pool Pavilion, spanning 164 square metres, offers similarly light-filled interiors and its own private plunge pool, creating a more intimate but still highly spacious retreat. All new pavilions continue Aman-i-Khás’ design language of soaring canopies, natural materials and soft, neutral tones that sit lightly within the surrounding wilderness.

Wilderness Adventures and Cultural Discovery

While the camp remains renowned for its access to Ranthambore’s wildlife—including the elusive Bengal tiger—its refreshed experience portfolio now goes far beyond jeep safaris. Guests can join a Surwal Lake excursion in the cooler months, setting out before sunrise to a wetland that attracts more than 200 species of indigenous and migratory birds, from bar‑headed geese and kingfishers to hoopoes, lapwings and pelicans, with chai and traditional sweets served at the water’s edge.

Aman-i-Khás also invites travellers into Rajasthan’s royal past through The Fort & The River experience, which visits the atmospheric Khandar Fort and the Chambal River, one of the region’s remaining wild waterways. Guests explore ruins of temples, stepwells and palaces reclaimed by nature before cruising the river in search of crocodiles, turtles and rare birdlife, accompanied by a private, chef‑prepared lunch overlooking sculpted ravines. Longer, private two‑hour Chambal cruises with a naturalist guide can also be arranged, with the chance—conditions permitting—to spot the shy river dolphin.

On land, horse safaris on the historic Marwari breed offer a romantic way to experience the countryside, tracing routes once favoured by Rajput royals across lakes, farmland and timeless villages. After dark, an astronomer‑led “cosmic safari” uses an eight‑inch Dobsonian telescope to reveal the moon, planets, nebulas, galaxies and constellations under Rajasthan’s vast night sky.

Wellness in the Wilderness

Restoration is woven into the Aman-i-Khás experience through wellness rituals rooted in ancient Indian healing traditions. Ayurvedic herbal poultice massages with warm herb‑infused oils help release deep-seated tension after a day in the park, while aromatic baths infused with fresh herbs from the camp’s organic garden can be prepared in the privacy of each pavilion.

New for 2026, a yoga platform set above the camp’s pond offers a serene setting for sunrise practice or quiet reflection, framed by birdsong and the ambient sounds of the national park. Guests can choose from pranayama sessions to improve breathing and reduce stress, guided meditation to soften mental “noise”, and private yoga combining breathwork and asanas to enhance flexibility and circulation; movement classes can also be held in‑pavilion for maximum privacy.

Elevated Culinary Journeys

Culinary experiences at Aman-i-Khás continue to celebrate Rajasthan’s flavours and royal traditions, with several new, highly atmospheric dining concepts. The Machan Dining experience takes place on an elevated platform around 20 feet above the forest floor, inspired by historic jungle hunting towers, where a private feast of traditional country cooking is served over an open wood fire by a dedicated host and chef.

Families can participate in hands-on cooking classes that start at the local market, selecting seasonal produce before returning to the camp’s organic garden to pick herbs and prepare a northern Indian feast. Dishes are then enjoyed together, with wine pairings for adults and smoothies or mocktails crafted by the camp’s mixologist for younger guests.

As night falls, Forest Dining under the stars transforms a secluded corner of the grounds into a private restaurant, reached by lantern light. Here, guests watch traditional naan being prepared in a tandoor before sitting down to a sequence of fragrant soups, kebabs and regional specialties, accompanied by the nocturnal soundtrack of the surrounding wilderness.

With its expanded collection of tented pavilions, deepened wellness offerings and a growing roster of cultural, culinary and nature‑led adventures, Aman-i-Khás continues to refine its role as a peaceful, “special” sanctuary—true to the meaning behind its name—for those seeking immersive luxury on the edge of Ranthambore.

Air New Zealand has completed the first phase of its Next Generation Aircraft Technical Demonstrator Programme, wrapping up a four‑month electric aircraft trial that offers a glimpse of how future low‑emissions aviation could work across Aotearoa. In partnership with US‑based BETA Technologies, the airline operated the battery‑electric ALIA CX300 on real routes under real conditions, gathering the kind of operational data airlines need if they are to seriously cut emissions on short‑haul networks.

Inside the ALIA CX300 demonstrator programme

Over the course of the trial, the ALIA CX300:

• Completed more than 100 flights.
• Flew around 13,000 kilometres across New Zealand.
• Visited 12 airports and aerodromes across the North and South Islands.

Two Air New Zealand pilots and eight BETA Technologies pilots flew the aircraft in a range of conditions, working closely with the Civil Aviation Authority and airport partners in Hamilton, Wellington and Marlborough. This was not a lab experiment: it was a live operational trial designed to see how electric propulsion behaves inside New Zealand’s existing aviation system.

Baden Smith, General Manager Strategy, Networks and Fleet at Air New Zealand, says the programme was about “learning by doing”—testing everything from pilot training and flight planning to energy use, airport interfaces and airspace integration. Those insights will feed directly into how the airline thinks about future fleet choices, network design and how next‑generation aircraft might be scaled up.

First low‑emissions IFR flight and Cook Strait crossings

One standout milestone was New Zealand’s first low‑emissions IFR (instrument flight rules) operation in December 2025. IFR flying lets pilots use flight‑deck instruments rather than visual cues, which is essential for low‑visibility conditions and a non‑negotiable requirement for regular commercial services. Achieving a low‑emissions IFR flight with a battery‑electric aircraft is a key proof point that this technology can eventually operate to airline standards rather than just fair‑weather demos.

The programme also included multiple Wellington–Blenheim crossings over Cook Strait, giving both Air New Zealand and BETA valuable experience of how the ALIA CX300 performs in one of the country’s more challenging aviation environments.

In parallel, the trial carried more than 20 tonnes of mock cargo and allowed around 700 people—from staff to stakeholders—to see and experience the aircraft up close, which the airline says helped shift conversations from “what if” to “how might this work”.

Cost and efficiency: $110 vs $20 on Wellington–Blenheim

Beyond emissions, the demonstrator highlighted some striking operational efficiencies. On the Wellington–Blenheim route, Air New Zealand compared the energy use of a traditional turboprop with the electric ALIA:

• A conventional Cessna Caravan burns about $110 of fuel per sector on that route.
• The ALIA CX300 used around $20 worth of electricity for the same sector.

While that doesn’t yet factor in aircraft acquisition, maintenance or infrastructure costs, it shows how electric propulsion can dramatically lower energy spend per flight—a compelling advantage at a time when fuel is both volatile in price and a major source of aviation emissions.

Globally, BETA’s ALIA CX300 has also demonstrated low operating costs on other routes, such as a 130‑kilometre passenger flight in the US that consumed just US$8 of electricity, underscoring the broader economic potential of electric aviation.

How this fits into Air New Zealand’s net zero roadmap

This demonstrator sits within Air New Zealand’s wider Flight NZ0 strategy and its Mission Next Gen Aircraft programme, which aims to:

1. Fly the first commercial demonstrator flight from 2026.
2. Begin replacing the Q300 domestic fleet from 2030 with more sustainable aircraft, likely using green hydrogen or battery‑hybrid systems.

The airline has committed to net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and sees next‑generation aircraft as one of the key levers alongside sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), operational efficiency and offsetting. Over the next three years, Air New Zealand plans to focus on supporting the building, testing and certifying of new aircraft and infrastructure, using insights from trials like the ALIA CX300 to guide long‑term decisions.

As Baden Smith notes, the programme leaves New Zealand “in a strong position— informed by evidence, experience and people— to make smart choices about the future.” BETA’s Head of Sales & Support, Simon Newitt, adds that New Zealand’s geography and regional network make it a “powerful proving ground” for electric aircraft, with lessons that can be applied globally.

Conclusion: net zero aviation is moving from concept to runway

Airlines’ net zero pledges often sound abstract, but Air New Zealand’s ALIA CX300 trial shows how quickly next‑generation aircraft are moving from concept to runway. In just four months, the programme delivered:

• Over 100 commercial‑style flights across real routes.
• New Zealand’s first low‑emissions IFR operation.
• Hard data showing energy costs that are five times lower than a comparable fossil‑fuelled aircraft on a key regional route.

Taken together with initiatives like Mission Next Gen Aircraft, global SAF testing and similar trials by other carriers, the industry’s push toward net zero aviation is clearly gaining ground—not in glossy concept renders, but in logged flight hours, regulatory engagement and real‑world economics. There is still a long way to go before you can routinely board an electric or hydrogen‑powered flight, but programmes like this suggest that for short‑haul regional flying, the future of low‑emissions travel is no longer hypothetical—it’s already in the air.

Dreaming of white sand, turquoise lagoons and almost no one else around? These 10 exclusive beaches deliver serious wow‑factor plus the kind of seclusion usually reserved for honeymoon brochures – and I’ve included how to get to each one from Australia, because the journey is half the story.

1. Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, Australia

Photo courtesy: Whitehaven Beach

Whitehaven’s blindingly white silica sand and swirling aqua patterns in Hill Inlet look almost unreal, which is why it regularly features on “world’s best beaches” lists and has even taken the global number‑one spot. Located within a protected national park in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, it’s only accessible by boat, seaplane or helicopter, which keeps it uncrowded and pristine.

Why it feels so exclusive

• No road access and no permanent development on the sand.
• Limited daily visitor numbers via marine‑park‑approved operators.

How to get there from Australia

• Fly to Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) or Hamilton Island from Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne.
• Connect by day cruise, private charter yacht, seaplane or helicopter to Whitehaven Beach.

2. Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Photo courtesy: Lizardisland.com.au

Lizard Island feels like Australia’s answer to a castaway‑chic private island: 24 powdery white beaches, just one all‑inclusive luxury resort and the Great Barrier Reef literally at your doorstep. Set within a national park and marine park, access is tightly controlled, so you’re sharing the island with only a handful of other guests.

Why it feels so exclusive

• Only one resort with a small number of suites and villas.
• Guests can “claim” a beach for the day using small motorboats and a packed gourmet picnic, often without seeing another soul.

How to get there from Australia

• Fly to Cairns from any major Australian city.
• Connect on the resort’s own one‑hour charter flight from Cairns to Lizard Island, soaring over reef and coral cays on the way.

3. Bora Bora Lagoon, French Polynesia

Photo courtesy: Pexels

Bora Bora is the classic screensaver come to life: an emerald volcano rising out of a luminous lagoon dotted with overwater bungalows and white‑sand motus (islets). Many top resorts sit on their own private motu, which means the beachfront is reserved exclusively for in‑house guests.

Why it feels so exclusive

• Most beaches are attached to luxury, often villa‑only, resorts on private islets.​
• Lagoon views are protected by building limits and strict environmental rules.

How to get there from Australia

• Fly from Sydney or Brisbane to Papeete (Tahiti), usually via Auckland.​
• Take a 45‑minute domestic flight from Papeete to Bora Bora, then transfer by resort boat to your motu.

4. COMO Laucala Island, Fiji

Photo courtesy: Fiji.Travel.com

COMO Laucala Island is Fiji dialled up to ultra‑luxury: jungle‑framed white beaches, coral reefs, a private airstrip and just a handful of architect‑designed residences. There are no day visitors, no cruise calls and no crowds – just you, the ocean and a team who know your name.​

Why it feels so exclusive

• Privately owned island with very limited villa inventory.​
• All‑inclusive, high‑touch service, from private dining to tailored activities.​

How to get there from Australia

• Fly from Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne to Nadi, Fiji.
• Connect by private or resort‑arranged charter flight from Nadi to Laucala Island’s private runway.​

5. Soneva Secret, Maldives

Photo courtesy: Soneva

Soneva’s ultra‑boutique islands in the Maldives are all about privacy: standalone villas with their own slice of sand, house reefs, private pools and a personal “barefoot butler” to quietly orchestrate your stay. Many villas have direct beach access, so you can step straight from bed to sand and rarely see anyone else unless you want to.​

Why it feels so exclusive

• Low villa counts and generous spacing between residences.​
• Strictly no mass‑market day trippers; access is reserved for overnight guests.​

How to get there from Australia

• Fly from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth to Malé, usually via Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai or Doha.
• Continue by seaplane, or a domestic flight plus speedboat, to your chosen Soneva island.

6. Fregate Island, Seychelles

Fregate Island, now in the process of reopening after renovation, has long been famous for near‑empty crescents of white sand backed by granite boulders and dense tropical forest. With very few villas, active conservation work and private‑guest‑only beaches, it’s wild, green and deeply secluded.​

Why it feels so exclusive

• Strict cap on guest numbers and no external visitors on the main beaches.​
• Ongoing conservation programs protect endemic wildlife and keep development minimal.​

How to get there from Australia

• Fly from Australia to Mahé, Seychelles (typically via the Middle East or via an Asian city plus a Gulf hub).
• Take a helicopter or private boat transfer from Mahé to Fregate Island.​

7. North Island, Seychelles

Photo courtesy: Pexels

North Island is an A‑list favourite, and it’s easy to see why: broad arcs of soft sand, neon‑blue water and dramatic granite headlands, with just a tiny number of ultra‑luxury villas tucked discreetly into the greenery. It’s a serious splurge, but the beach genuinely feels like it belongs to you.​

Why it feels so exclusive

• Entire island is one private resort with only a handful of villas.​
• Bespoke, no‑set‑schedule approach to dining and activities – you can have the beach set up just for your sunset dinner.​

How to get there from Australia

• Fly to Mahé as above.
• Continue by helicopter transfer direct to North Island’s helipad, with sweeping views over the Seychelles archipelago.​

8. Kisawa Sanctuary, Benguerra Island, Mozambique

Photo courtesy: Kisawa Sanctuary

Kisawa Sanctuary sits on Benguerra Island in Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, where long, dune‑backed beaches meet a protected marine reserve. Each sprawling residence comes with significant private beachfront, and the wider archipelago remains blissfully undeveloped compared with other Indian Ocean hotspots.

Why it feels so exclusive

• Large standalone residences spaced along wild coastline.
• Access by private boat or helicopter, with hosted immigration and lounge services at Vilanculos.

How to get there from Australia

• Fly from Australia to Johannesburg or Maputo, usually via Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Singapore.
• Connect to Vilanculos (VNX), then transfer by private boat (around 35 minutes) or a 5–10‑minute helicopter hop to Benguerra Island and Kisawa.

9. Shebara, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

Photo courtesy: Shebara Resort

Part of Saudi Arabia’s new Red Sea development, Shebara sits off the coast with bright white sand, clear water and thriving coral. With tightly controlled capacity and remote access, this is a beach where you’re more likely to share the water with turtles and reef fish than with other guests.​

Why it feels so exclusive

• Purpose‑built as a low‑impact, limited‑capacity luxury hideaway.​
• Surrounded by relatively untouched reefs in a region only just opening to tourism.​

How to get there from Australia

• Fly from Australia to Jeddah or Riyadh via hubs such as Singapore, Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi.
• Connect on a domestic flight to the Red Sea gateway airport, then continue by boat or seaplane to the island resort.​

10. 17 Mile Beach, Low Bay, Barbuda

Photo courtesy: Silviabosco

Stretching for almost 27 kilometres, 17 Mile Beach is a blush‑pink sandbar between a lagoon and the open Caribbean Sea, with no resorts or road access. You arrive by boat, step ashore – and that’s often it, just you, the birds and the sound of the surf.

Why it feels so exclusive

• No permanent development; access is only by sea and subject to conditions.
• Its remote location means only a trickle of visitors make it this far.​

How to get there from Australia

• Fly from Australia to Antigua (typically via the U.S. or Europe – for example, Sydney–Los Angeles–Miami–Antigua).
• Take a local boat or organised excursion from Antigua or Barbuda across the lagoon to Low Bay’s 17 Mile Beach.

Conclusion: when the journey is part of the luxury

These ten beaches all share the same core ingredients: jaw‑dropping natural beauty, strict controls on access and a genuine sense of escape once you arrive. They’re not the kind of places you reach on a whim – from Australia, you’re usually looking at a long‑haul flight, a connection or two, and sometimes a helicopter, seaplane or private boat on top. But that’s precisely what keeps them special.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned chasing beaches around the world, it’s that exclusivity isn’t just about price tags and private butlers; it’s about space, silence and the feeling that you’ve slipped off the grid for a little while. Whether you’re staying close to home on Whitehaven or Lizard Island, or flying halfway across the world to the Maldives, Seychelles or the Caribbean, choosing one of these shores means embracing the journey as part of the experience – and being rewarded, at the end of it, with a slice of coastline you’ll be daydreaming about long after you’ve brushed the last grains of sand from your suitcase.

The 33rd edition of the South Asia Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE) is taking place now from 25 to 27 February 2026 at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi. Here are a few glimpses from the super crowded show…

Valpas, the platform for bed bug-safe certified hotels, continues to strengthen its team to support its expansion as the new global standard of bed bug safety and sustainable stays. 

To support Valpas’ expansion, four new executives have joined the startup’s team.

With the recruitment of these four new executives, Valpas continues to build the infrastructure for safe, sustainable stays, that safeguards every room, generates real-time certification, and distributes that proof to OTAs and AI-powered platforms now shaping how travellers discover and book hotels.

According to Valpas co-founder and chief executive Martim Gois: “At Valpas, we have set ourselves an ambitious goal: to create a new standard of bed bug safety through chemical-free and sustainable technology across the global hospitality sector. Sofi, May, Enzo and Claus complement our diverse team of professionals and will be key to expanding our business, implementing our strategy, as well as achieving our targets.”

New to the team

Claus Unterkircher 

Claus Unterkircher is the new head of operations at Valpas. 

Among others, he will lead and carry out the operational strategy to drive the company’s international growth. 

Unterkircher has held senior executive roles in tech and mobility in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Belgium in companies such as Uber, Voi, and the Colruyt Group. 

He has a proven record in digital transformation, in platform operations management, as well as in implementing business strategy effectively amid complex market dynamics.

Enzo Aita 

Valpas’ new head of ecosystem is Enzo Aita, an experienced business development leader who is also recognized as a top hospitality voice and travel influencer.

Aita was vice-president of supply integration and strategic partnership at Hyperguest and has more than 20 years of experience in the travel industry. 

He will build the ecosystem of OTAs and travel agents, travel managers and industry institutions that defines what AI-era hospitality looks like, to make certified bed bug safety and pesticide-free standards the baseline buyer expectation for hotels.

May Hertonen 

May Hertonen is joining Valpas as senior customer success manager.

In her new role, she will help hotel partners to adopt bed bug safe standards with confidence, while protecting their reputation and giving guests peace of mind.

Hertonen has simplified the complexity and enabled the adoption of emerging technologies with a human-first and impact-driven approach in international companies for over 10 years, including SAP and Immersal.

Sofi Laakso

To build and scale its go-to-market function, Valpas has appointed Sofi Laakso as go-to-market manager.

Her previous experience at early-stage and investment companies across the Nordic startup ecosystem such as Slush and Herizon will help Valpas to launch its technology and bed bug-free certification in its target markets.

Marriott Media and Kinective Media by United Airlines announced the release of The Psychology of Travel Audiences, a new joint research series, on Wednesday, 25th February.

The Psychology of Travel Audiences explores how consumer mindset shifts across the travel journey and why those moments create powerful opportunities for brands.

Grounded in behavioural science, proprietary first-party data, and insights from over 2,000 travelers and 200 senior marketers, the research identifies key phases of traveler psychology and the most underutilized moments for brand connection.

That the results of the research should be released now is timely: today’s marketers face record fragmentation, declining attention, and rising acquisition costs, 

Experts involved in the study revealed that travel is one of the last environments where audience mindset, attention, and purchase intent align simultaneously.

Relevant findings

The research establishes travel as both the right moment and the right mindset for  modern marketing and for brands to take advantage of.

The most relevant findings are as follows:

• People are significantly more open to new brands and experiences while traveling and 75 percent of travelers cited feeling more open to discovery compared to everyday life;
• Large pre-paid expenses create a “contrast effect,” making upgrades and impulse purchases feel smaller; 
• In-transit and in-destination moments deliver peak dwell time and emotional positivity, yet remain underutilized by marketers;
• Frequent travelers are a premium audience, earning more, spending more, and demonstrating deeper brand trust;
• Over 85% of travelers make unplanned purchases during trips, and tens of millions of Marriott reservations are made within days of a prior stay ending; and
• Three out of four consumers trust their top travel provider’s recommendations and advertising. 

The Psychology of Travel Audiences will continue throughout 2026, with future installments translating these insights into practical applications for brands, including tactical frameworks and real-world use cases.