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Hilton Arcadia Los Angeles opens with unique features
Azul Hospitality Group has announced the opening of the Hilton Arcadia Los Angeles, a 173-room hotel located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. The hotel, managed by Azul, features contemporary guestrooms, multiple dining venues, and over 17,000 square feet of event space. It is situated near Santa Anita Park and the Los Angeles County Arboretum, offering easy access to Pasadena's cultural attractions. The Hilton Arcadia Los Angeles aims to blend the area's equestrian heritage and diverse cultural influences with modern design. General Manager Luis Plascencia stated, "Hilton Arcadia Los Angeles was designed to celebrate the vibrant energy and character of this community." The hotel includes amenities such as a rooftop bar, Hipico Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, which offers Baja-inspired cuisine and panoramic mountain views. Guestrooms are equipped with modern conveniences like high-speed WiFi, SMART HDTVs, and luxury bath amenities. The hotel also offers suites with separate living areas and enhanced bathroom options. Dining options include 19Seventy at the Ovalo Restaurant & Bar, serving Italian-inspired dishes, and Sottaku by Kisen & Kaiseki Motoishi, which offers high-end sushi. The hotel provides flexible event spaces, including the Centella Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 450 guests. Outdoor venues like the Aura Terrace offer scenic settings for events. Additional amenities include a heated outdoor pool, a 24-hour fitness centre, and access to the Hilton Honours Executive Lounge. Hilton Arcadia Los Angeles is located at 123 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA, with opening rates starting at $229 per night. Pets under 20 lbs are welcome for a $50 fee per stay. ```
Curio Collection by Hilton to open with 160 keys in Kyoto in 2028
Hilton announced the signing of its second Curio Collection by Hilton hotel in Japan in partnership with Brighton Corporation Co., Ltd. The Kyoto Brighton Hotel will convert under Curio Collection by Hilton and is scheduled to open in the winter of 2028. Brighton Corporation currently operates four hotels, including Kyoto Brighton Hotel and Urayasu Brighton Hotel Tokyo Bay, and has a long-standing track record in hotel management in Kyoto. Upon completion of a full renovation, the newly rebranded hotel will mark the entry of the Curio Collection by Hilton into the city, featuring approximately 160 guest rooms, four dining outlets, including Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine, a banquet space accommodating up to 240 guests, and a fitness center. Brighton Corporation will continue to manage the hotel. Kyoto Brighton Hotel joins a portfolio of more than 190 individually remarkable hotels under Curio Collection by Hilton, each hand-picked for curious travelers looking for distinct design, world-class dining and immersive experiences backed by the benefits and hospitality of Hilton. In Japan, the first Curio Collection by Hilton hotel opened in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, in 2018. Curio Collection by Hilton has also recently debuted in Thailand at KROMO Bangkok and in China at Secan Hotel Qingdao. “Hilton is expanding its footprint in Kyoto, where we currently operate five hotels under four brands. The launch of Curio Collection by Hilton in Kyoto – a city that enjoys immense popularity both domestically and internationally – will meet the diverse needs of travelers and marks an exciting new chapter for Hilton in the city. Each Curio Collection by Hilton hotel provides a unique connection to sought-after destinations, offering guests memorable experiences that allow them to discover the local charm throughout their stay. In partnership with Brighton Corporation – which has extensive experience in hotel management in Kyoto – we look forward to welcoming guests with exceptional hospitality,” said Hirohisa Fujimoto, vice president, development, Japan & Micronesia, Hilton. “We are delighted to sign a franchise agreement between Brighton Corporation and Hilton, a global leader in the hospitality industry. The Curio Collection brand, with its emphasis on distinct character and strong local connections, aligns perfectly with the qualities and strengths of Kyoto Brighton Hotel. We believe this synergy will allow us to create a truly one-of-a-kind hotel that will satisfy guests from around the world. Through this partnership with Hilton, we aim to continue building a beloved hotel that leverages the experience and deep relationships that we have cultivated with the local community over the years,” said Tsutomu Yasuda, president, Brighton Corporation Co., Ltd. Curio Collection by Hilton is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton's 25 world-class brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels receive access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room and access their room using Digital Key.
Spark by Hilton Ponce opens with 120 keys
Hilton announces the opening of the first Spark by Hilton hotel in the Caribbean and Latin America, marking a significant milestone in the global expansion of Hilton’s premium economy brand. Owned by Ponce Resorts Inc. and managed by HI Development P.R.Corp, the 120-room Spark by Hilton Ponce offers guests reliable essentials and warm, friendly service, at an accessible price point. “We are thrilled to welcome guests to Spark by Hilton Ponce, the first Spark by Hilton in the Caribbean and Latin America,” said Maxime Verstraete, vice president, brand management, Caribbean and Latin America, Hilton. “This milestone marks an exciting chapter in the expansion of Hilton’s brands in the region, as we continue to meet the evolving needs of today’s travelers by offering more choices across our portfolio. The arrival of Spark by Hilton in Ponce introduces a fresh, affordable hospitality experience to the destination, and contributes to the local economy by creating careers opportunities and reinforcing our commitment to the tourism in Puerto Rico.” Located in Puerto Rico’s second-largest city, Spark by Hilton Ponce showcases modern Spanish architecture and a serene courtyard that sets a welcoming tone from the moment guests arrive. The lobby features versatile seating options from communal tables to individual workspaces, offering a comfortable setting to enjoy the complimentary hot breakfast, connect with others, or stay productive throughout the day. Additional amenities include free parking, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and more than 1,600 square feet of flexible event space, accommodating up to 120 guests. “The Spark by Hilton brand has seen incredible momentum since its launch two years ago, and now we’re excited to introduce our signature hospitality to the Caribbean and Latin American market. With over 200 hotels open, Spark continues to expand into new regions – always with the same aspiration – to offer guests a consistent, high-quality experience at an exceptional value and to empower our team members and owners to shine in every community we serve.” said Alissa Klees, global brand leader, Spark by Hilton. Strategically located only three miles from Mercedita International Airport, off Highway 52, which connects Ponce to San Juan, Spark by Hilton Ponce's proximity to cultural attractions, the historic downtown, and shopping malls makes it the home base for guests looking to explore or those needing a peaceful retreat before their next journey. “The members of our team are extremely excited as we open our Spark by Hilton, bringing the premium economy brand to the Ponce tourism market,” said Miguel Vega, president of HI Development P.R. Corp. “The hotel adds diversity to the southern region and confirms our commitment of over 50 years contributing to the tourism development in the city of Ponce and Puerto Rico.” Spark, a conversion-only brand, is scaling quickly due to its appeal to both developers and guests. With its innovative design, budget-friendly rates, and guest-centric amenities, Spark delivers an exceptional stay experience that also aligns seamlessly with current travel trends. Additionally, the brand offers flexible development options and robust support from Hilton, making it an attractive choice for developers aiming to enter or expand within the dynamic hospitality sector. Hilton’s fastest announcement-to-market brand boasts more than 200 open hotels, and more than 190 hotels in the global pipeline. Spark by Hilton Ponce joins Hilton’s portfolio of more than 10 hotels currently welcoming guests in Puerto Rico, strengthening the company’s commitment to doubling its presence on the island within the next four years. Hilton plans to continue expanding its rapidly growing portfolio in the Caribbean, where it welcomes guests at approximately 50 hotels and has 40 additional properties in development. Throughout the Caribbean and Latin America, Hilton welcomes travelers at nearly 300 hotels and resorts with over 160 hotels in various stages of design and construction. Hilton is redefining the guest experience by continuing to introduce new ways to stay through an unmatched portfolio of award-winning brands, opening new horizons of travel and adventure for Hilton guests, especially Hilton Honors members, who can dream, book, and earn and spend Points for stays.
Hilton signs ‘Signia by Hilton Tainan’
Hilton announced the signing of Signia by Hilton Tainan in partnership with Forte Hotel Group. The newest brand in Hilton’s luxury portfolio invites guests to experience the aura of distinction and sophistication with refined moments of personalized service, cosmopolitan amenities and signature spaces to celebrate special milestones or worldly events. Debuting in July 2026 in the heart of Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city and a rich cultural heritage destination, the 344-room hotel will make its mark as the first Signia by Hilton in Asia-Pacific. Famed for its vibrant food culture, numerous shrines and temples, picturesque natural surroundings and mild weather, Tainan is a popular destination for leisure tourism as well as a center of business and commerce. Signia by Hilton Tainan will offer easy access to a luxury shopping complex and landmarks as well as over 50 museums. Tainan Airport and the Tainan Railway Station are both within a 30-minute drive while Kaohsiung Airport is within an hour. “As Signia by Hilton expands globally, the Brand caters to the modern traveller who seeks to reach their peak, personally and professionally, and who continues their pursuits during their travel journeys,” said Vincent Ong, vice president, Full Service Brands, Asia Pacific. “Signia by Hilton Tainan will bring to life sophisticated stays marked by the Brand’s distinctive “9to5/5to9” mantra across the hotel’s destination restaurants, premium wellness offerings and the premier Club Signia lounge.” The hotel will offer over 1,850 square meters of meeting space, featuring modern technology, anchored by tailored, attentive service for meeting planners and their guests. Signia by Hilton Tainan will also feature an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant and a lobby lounge. Guests staying in Club Signia rooms and suites will be able to enjoy personalised service with access to Club Signia, bespoke concierge services and enhanced in-room amenities. Guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation can indulge in a range of wellness offerings, from a state-of-the-art spa offering rejuvenating, bespoke treatments to a fully equipped fitness center featuring the latest technology and a pool. Benjamin Liao, chairman, Forte Hotel Group said: "This collaboration with Hilton is a union of brand strength and a symbol of shared vision. By leveraging Forte Hotel Group’s deep roots in the Taiwan market and combining it with Hilton’s global hospitality expertise, we look forward to connecting the charm of the city with modern business, injecting fresh international energy into Tainan." Signia by Hilton Tainan joins the brand’s growing portfolio in gateway locations around the word, following the recent opening of Signia by Hilton Amman, the first Signia by Hilton hotel outside of the United States, as well as the signing of the first Signia by Hilton in India, in Jaipur. This comes as Hilton recently announced that its luxury and lifestyle portfolio reached 1,000 trading hotels with another 500 under development globally demonstrating continued momentum and opportunity for its brands in this segment of the market. Signia by Hilton hotels participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 25 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can’t be found anywhere else and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also enjoy popular digital tools available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room and access their room using a Digital Key.
Hilton Appoints Tal Shefer as Senior Vice President of Brand Management, Asia Pacific
Hilton has announced the appointment of Tal Shefer as senior vice president of Brand Management, Asia Pacific. The appointment underscores Hilton’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its brand presence across Asia Pacific. Shefer oversees Hilton’s brand strategy in Asia Pacific, driving growth across the company’s portfolio of brands. This includes Hilton’s latest push in the luxury and lifestyle segment, where it plans to expand its current portfolio of over 160 trading properties by 50%, to more than 250 in the coming years. A graduate of Hilton’s Elevator program, designed to offer a pathway to operational and commercial leadership roles at hotels, Shefer’s career exemplifies Hilton’s culture of growth and opportunity. He has advanced through a series of leadership roles across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), bringing over two decades of experience and expertise in hotel management and brand operations to his new role. Most recently, he served as vice president, Brand Operations, EMEA, where he oversaw all managed and franchised hotel openings and transitions, playing a pivotal role in shaping the region’s focused service strategy across multiple brands and markets. During his tenure, Shefer established a best-in-class hotel openings structure, and also led the Hilton’s onboarding of more than 500 Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) properties globally, reinforcing its value proposition at scale. “Asia Pacific is a key engine of growth for Hilton, and Tal’s appointment is pivotal in ensuring we deliver on our ambitious brand-led strategy in the region,” said Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “With his deep operational expertise and track record of delivering high performance, I’m confident that Tal will play an instrumental role in accelerating our brand expansion and ensuring that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our owners and guests.” “I’m honored to take on this role at such an exciting time for Hilton in Asia Pacific. The region presents tremendous potential, from the growing momentum in the luxury and lifestyle segment, to the consistent demand that we’ve seen across our focused service brands,” said Tal Shefer, Senior Vice President, Brand Management, Asia Pacific. “I look forward to working alongside our teams and partners to continue strengthening Hilton’s brand portfolio, enhance guest experiences, and create long-term value for owners across these dynamic markets.”
DoubleTree by Hilton to make its Singapore debut in 2026
Aravest, Hilton, and Singapore’s Wee Hur Property Pte Ltd announced a landmark agreement to bring the DoubleTree by Hilton brand to Singapore earlier today, 3rd November. Scheduled to open in 2026, the 344-key riverfront property will mark DoubleTree by Hilton’s debut in Singapore, combining Hilton’s global hospitality expertise with Aravest’s hospitality real estate investment and asset management strategy and Wee Hur’s long-standing development capabilities in Singapore. Aravest CEO Moses K Song said: “The acquisition of Hotel Miramar, together with Wee Hur as our trusted partner, marks Aravest’s first foray into the Singapore hospitality sector and reflects our high conviction in Singapore’s attractiveness as both a commercial and leisure destination. Partnering with Hilton to open the first DoubleTree by Hilton property in Singapore marks an exciting new chapter for this prime riverfront property. We are confident that the hotel’s refreshed design, uplifted spaces and thoughtful amenities will be further enhanced by DoubleTree’s signature warmth and hospitality, creating memorable stays for every guest. We look forward to working with Hilton and Wee Hur to position the property as a standout destination in Robertson Quay and a preferred choice for travellers to Singapore.” For her part, Hilton’s vice-president for development in Southeast Asia Maria Arizumi expressed pride in the collaboration with Aravest and Wee Hur on this milestone project, having extensive experience in hotel conversions in Singapore. Arizumi said: “Rebranding this primely located property as DoubleTree by Hilton is another chance to show how Hilton helps owners efficiently refresh and reposition assets, while leveraging the power of Hilton’s brands and commercial engine. This signing will expand the property’s market reach and unlock greater long-term returns, while contributing to the vibrancy of Robertson Quay. It reflects our strategic and purposeful expansion approach in bringing the right brand to the right place with the right partners.” Wee Hur Property chief executive Goh Chengyu likewise remarked: “Wee Hur is excited to play a key role in the transformation of this well-known property. Our track record in development and construction, combined with Hilton’s operational expertise and Aravest’s investment vision, ensures that DoubleTree by Hilton Singapore Robertson Quay will set a new benchmark for hospitality in the area. This partnership reflects our commitment to working with like-minded partners to deliver high-quality developments that enhance Singapore’s hospitality landscape and create long-term value for all stakeholders.” Reimagined hospitality in the heart of modern Singapore DoubleTree by Hilton’s arrival in the city-state involves the reimagining of Hotel Miramar at Robertson Quay, introducing the award-winning brand’s signature warmth and hospitality to one of Asia Pacific’s leading business and tourism destinations. A rebrand of Hotel Miramar, the hotel will undergo a comprehensive upgrade to revitalize guestrooms, meeting spaces, an all-day dining restaurant and lobby lounge, with enhancements to the arrival experience, fitness center and pool deck. Select areas will also be refreshed to introduce new amenities, including a kids’ club and pickleball courts, and deliver the thoughtful, comfortable hospitality synonymous with the DoubleTree by Hilton brand. Located along the Singapore River in historic Robertson Quay, the property will be steps away from vibrant riverside dining, bars and cultural venues, and within easy reach of Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and Orchard Road. An ideal base for both business and leisure travellers, it will also offer convenient access to the CBD and a variety of cultural landmarks, including Fort Canning Park, Arab Street, Bugis and Chinatown. With this opening, Hilton will add to its Singapore pipeline of more than 500 rooms, including the upcoming NoMad Singapore. For Aravest and Wee Hur, the project underscores the owners’ shared focus on enhancing Singapore’s hospitality landscape through innovative asset enhancement initiatives and trusted global partnerships.
KAFD and Hilton Join Forces to Redefine Riyadh’s Business Hospitality Landscape
The King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) has announced a major partnership with Hilton to operate a new 450-key flagship hotel in the heart of Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). The agreement was signed during the 9th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII), marking a pivotal step in KAFD’s hospitality expansion strategy. The collaboration underscores KAFD’s ambition to attract world-class brands that elevate the district’s status as a leading destination for business, investment, and leisure in Saudi Arabia. The upcoming Hilton Riyadh King Abdullah Financial District will stand as a symbol of the city’s evolving urban and economic landscape, offering an integrated mix of corporate convenience and lifestyle luxury. Talking about the partnership, Saad Abdulaziz Alkroud, Chairman of the Board at KAFD DMC, said: “We are excited to partner with Hilton to enhance KAFD’s hospitality offering and firmly establish the district as a major destination for both business and leisure travellers. KAFD’s growing hospitality offering demonstrates our commitment to enabling Vision 2030 by developing world-class infrastructure to drive the growth of tourism in the Kingdom.” With direct access to KAFD’s conference centre, cultural attractions, and business ecosystem, the new hotel will be linked via climate-controlled skywalks and will connect to the upcoming monorail system, providing seamless access to the Riyadh Metro and the wider city. King Khalid International Airport will be just a 25-minute drive away, positioning the property as a key gateway for international visitors and investors. John Pagano, Managing Director of KAFD DMC, said: “This agreement with Hilton is a key step in expanding KAFD’s hospitality offering, supporting the district’s role as a hub for business, investment, and international conferences. The hotel will complement KAFD’s integrated ecosystem of offices, residences, retail, and event venues, providing seamless convenience for visitors and residents. With Hilton joining KAFD, we are advancing the district’s long-term strategy to create a connected, dynamic environment where business and lifestyle converge.” The property will reflect Hilton’s signature service, featuring 450 contemporary rooms and suites, a stylish lobby café, specialty restaurants, and a poolside terrace. Guests can also access a fully equipped fitness centre, health club, and 900 square meters of meeting and event space, including boardrooms and an executive lounge—designed to meet the needs of both corporate and social gatherings. Commenting on Hilton’s growth in Saudi Arabia, Chris Nassetta, President & CEO, Hilton, said: “Hilton Riyadh King Abdullah Financial District represents an exciting step for Hilton in Saudi Arabia. Our growth in the Kingdom has accelerated significantly in recent years, and with over 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline, we remain confident in the country’s inspiring future. We are thrilled to be working alongside KAFD DMC to bring our signature Hilton hospitality to the heart of Riyadh’s financial centre and create unforgettable stays for all our guests.”
Hilton celebrates surpassing 888 trading hotels in China
Hilton announced the grand opening of Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan and celebrated its milestone of 888 trading hotels across Greater China and Mongolia. This achievement reinforces Hilton’s position as the largest and fastest-growing international hospitality company in the region with the company on track to double its presence in the region in the coming years. Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan After opening its first hotel in Chinese Mainland in 1988, Hilton has grown its room inventory nearly tenfold in the past 12 years. In a sign of continued momentum, Hilton recently announced several key new signings in the luxury and lifestyle segments, as part of its plans to exceed 100 luxury and lifestyle hotels across Greater China in the coming years. The new additions to the pipeline include: Waldorf Astoria Shenzhen (2028) - Located in the heart of the Shenzhen Bay Super Headquarters Base, this landmark property will redefine luxury hospitality in one of China’s most innovative cities, reflecting Waldorf Astoria’s global leadership in sophisticated design, intuitive service, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. LXR Hotels & Resorts in Tianjin (2029) - A bespoke luxury experience celebrating Tianjin’s East-meets West heritage through immersive design and storytelling. Conrad Zhoushan (2028) - Offering rare access to the sacred Putuo Mountain, the hotel will feature panoramic sea views from its rooms and villas. Hyssan Hotel Quanzhou,Curio Collection by Hilton (2026) - Situated in the city’s CBD and adjacent to urban cultural landmarks, the hotel draws inspiration from the historical harbourfront, incorporating distinctive, high-end design to present a multi-dimensional interpretation of the modern Maritime Silk Road culture. Curio Collection by Hilton in Shanghai Yuqiao (2026) - Hilton’s first Curio Collection hotel in Shanghai, showcasing local cultural appeal in a modern way in a premier destination. This comes as Hilton recently announced plans to surpass 250 luxury and lifestyle hotels across Asia Pacific in the years ahead with more than 1,000 such hotels already trading globally and a further 500 in the pipeline around the world. Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said: “Reaching 888 hotels in China is a powerful symbol of Hilton’s deep-rooted commitment to this dynamic market. China continues to be a key part of our long-term growth strategy as demand for travel and experiences continues to rise. Our bold plans to double our presence over the coming years reflects our optimism for the growth prospects in the country as we accelerate into the new era of hospitality.” Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan sits on the southern stretch of Shanghai’s new Bund, in the vibrant Qiantan District of Pudong. The hotel offers 204 expansive rooms and suites starting at 52 square meters, featuring panoramic river views and generous balconies, creating private, intimate spaces for guests to unwind against a backdrop of Shanghai’s skyline. The dining experience shines with multiple highlights. Arame presents a fresh take on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with local produce; at Fu Cheng, Michelin-starred chef Justin Yang showcases refined Min cuisine rooted in Quanzhou traditions; the Starlight room offers a reservation-only chef’s table, featuring an open kitchen and private terrace; and the iconic Peacock Alley offers a refined setting for connection, celebration and indulgence. The property’s debut marks a significant chapter for Waldorf Astoria in Shanghai, as the third city worldwide to have two Waldorf Astoria properties, following Dubai and Doha. Over the past 15 years, Waldorf Astoria has built a portfolio of five hotels across the country – Shanghai on the Bund, Beijing, Chengdu, Xiamen, and now Shanghai Qiantan – each embodying the brand’s heritage of effortless luxury. “The presence of these two grand luxury icons in Shanghai is a powerful signal of the depth and breadth of opportunities in China’s hospitality landscape. Our growth in China is a testament to the strength of our award winning brands, the trust of our owners and partners, the dedication of our team members, and the strong following we’ve built with our customers. From luxury to focused service, we’ve built incredible momentum across the country, driven by our long-term commitment and founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality,” said Qian Jin, president, Greater China and Mongolia, Hilton. Hilton’s business in China spans 11 award-winning brands across more than 280 destinations, offering the most reliable and friendly stay experiences that meet the evolving preferences of Chinese travelers - whether for leisure or business. Hilton represents an incredible engine of opportunity for 70,000 team members in China, with corporate offices in Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Chengdu and Nanjing. Hilton’s hotels participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 25 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.
’Whycations’, ‘Curiosity Leave’ and ‘Plants as a Priority’ are what Brits seek in Travel : Hilton
Representative Image In the year ahead, travellers are choosing trips that begin with purpose, driven more by emotion than destination. According to Hilton’s newly released 2026 Trends Report, The Whycation: Travel’s New Starting Point, global travellers are embracing the rise of the “whycation,” where travel is driven by emotional motivations: the desire to rest, the urge to reconnect and a search for experiences that feel meaningful. Backed by insights from more than 14,000 travellers across 14 countries, the research reveals that Brits are leading the charge when it comes to travel plans for the year ahead. In fact, 46% have already booked at least one trip for the next 12 months, significantly more than any other country surveyed. With Brits itching to get away in 2026, Hilton’s insights reveal the key trends that will shape how they travel: The Quest for ‘Curiosity Leave’ Brits are seeking a better work-life balance that leaves more room for personal growth and exploration. Passport Stamps Over Payslips: 46% of the nation would take a pay cut for unlimited holiday, 39% have taken unpaid leave to travel, and when push comes to shove, a bold 41% would even quit their job if their holiday request was denied. Room to Grow: Brits are adventuring with intent; 41% plan trips around educational experiences when traveling with children and 66% would take time off work to pursue a personal passion - a mindset shared by 72% of global globetrotters. Plants as a Priority For devoted plant parents, worries about leaving their leafy loved ones unattended are putting a hold on holiday plans. Foliage Fears: 56% of Brits factor plant care into travel planning, while 22% admit owning plants makes it harder to get away. Annual Leave Over Leaves: 33% avoid owning a plant altogether, fearing it will limit their travel freedom and get in the way of holiday plans. ‘Hush-pitality’: Seeking Sweet Silence In a noisy, hyperconnected world, UK jet-setters are seeking out silence as a remedy for constant connectivity. As alert fatigue sets in, many are carving out space for calm. Travel as Escape: 23% of the nation increasingly seek quiet moments alone when travelling with loved ones, and 35% add solo days before or after family trips. Meanwhile, 41% of Brits and 54% of global globetrotters would take a work trip just to have a break from their family or partner. Frolleague Fatigue: On business trips, 25% of the nation pursue moments of solitude - as echoed by 27% of global jet-setters. 21% of Brits prioritise sleep over socialising with co-workers, and 16% even exercise in their hotel room to avoid colleagues in the gym - mirroring habits seen in 17% of travellers worldwide. Who Pays and Who Plays? Adult family holidays are on the rise, with more parents footing the bill for their Gen Z and Millennial kids. Bank of Mum and Dad: Among those British leisure travellers who travel with their children, 49% report travelling with adult children. 36% say they cover the entire cost of trips for their grown-up kids aged 18 and over. The Purse Holds The Power: While older generations often fund family trips, they're also often the ones who call the shots, as 52% of the nation agrees that whoever pays gets to pick the destination - a view shared by 59% of global travellers. Budget Boost: Savvy Brits are getting smarter with how they fund their getaways. 51% save up loyalty points for a dream trip, and 48% use them to cover the full cost. Others report using public transport (71%) and capitalising on free hotel breakfasts (84%). Road Trip Revivalism With value, freedom and flexibility top of mind, road trips are experiencing a real revival. The hashtag #roadtrip has racked up over 5.9 million tags* globally as travellers embrace the open road. Rediscovering the Road: Road trips lead future travel plans for 23% of Brits and 61% are buckling up to drive to their destination in the next 12 months - largely driven by the cost-saving appeal (60%). Roads Over Runways: 52% of UK holidaymakers say road trips are more relaxing than flying, and 62% value the spontaneity. Packing perks also come into play, as 69% appreciate being able to bring more with them, while 72% prefer having their own car on a trip due to the sheer convenience. Hospitality in Motion: After a long day behind the wheel, a great night’s sleep is non-negotiable, as 91% of Brits say a comfortable bed is the most important end-of-day essential - as agreed by 90% of global travellers. “Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report confirms that travel remains a top priority, with people looking for added meaning in every trip they take.” said Simon Vincent CBE, executive vice president & president, EMEA, Hilton. “Today’s travellers are choosing to reconnect with friends and family, explore new cultures and enjoy culinary escapes abroad. With nearly 8,800 hotels worldwide, Hilton is focused on delivering the comfort, reliable and friendly service and choice travellers expect - alongside experiences that reflect how they want to spend their time.”
From Grocery Aisles to AI Itineraries: Hilton’s 2026 Report Reveals How UAE and Saudi Tourists Are Turning Trips into Journeys of Meaning
Travellers from the UAE and Saudi Arabia are leading a global shift in how people plan their getaways, according to Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report “The Whycation: Travel’s New Starting Point.” The study, based on more than 14,000 travellers across 14 countries, finds that trips are now being shaped by emotional motivations — the why rather than the where. For Gulf residents, travel is becoming a reflection of identity. Rest, reconnection and authentic experiences have overtaken sightseeing and shopping as the new travel currency. “UAE and KSA residents are reinventing how they explore the world, placing greater emphasis on connection, authenticity and deeper meaning,” said Guy Hutchinson, President, Hilton Middle East and Africa. “They’re choosing journeys that speak to who they are, not just where they go.” Immersion Over Observation Cultural connection is central to this new way of travelling. Hilton’s data shows 66 per cent of UAE travellers and 65 per cent of Saudis make an effort to learn a local language before a trip — the highest rate globally. Meanwhile 73 per cent of UAE residents and 69 per cent of Saudi travellers take part in local customs they haven’t researched beforehand, favouring spontaneous immersion over passive observation. Travellers from the Gulf are no longer content with observing from afar; they want to participate — learning traditional crafts, joining village markets and engaging with local life. Grocery-Store Tourism: The New Souvenir Stop One of the more unexpected findings is the rise of “grocery-store tourism.” For 81 per cent of UAE travellers and 78 per cent of Saudis, exploring local supermarkets has become a travel ritual. Beyond novelty, this behaviour shows a desire to understand everyday life abroad — discovering local ingredients, seeing community routines and finding comfort in the ordinary. In a world chasing bucket lists, Gulf travellers are finding meaning in the mundane. AI-Assisted Planning Fuels Effortless Escapes Convenience remains key, but it’s being redefined through AI-powered planning. Three in four travellers from both the UAE and Saudi Arabia use AI tools to build personalised itineraries, pairing digital precision with human expertise. This trend signals a move toward smarter, stress-free escapes, with travellers opting for all-inclusive resorts and curated experiences that allow more time for enjoyment and less for logistics. Social Media and Loyalty Drive Decisions Social media now shapes journeys in real time. In the UAE, one in three travellers rely on Instagram or TikTok to plan activities while abroad, choosing experiences that trend in the moment. Loyalty is just as strong: 79 per cent of UAE respondents commit to a single loyalty programme per category — from hotels to airlines — reflecting trust in brands that offer personalised rewards and consistent service. Hilton’s report shows the future of travel will be defined by emotion, authenticity and ease. Gulf travellers are turning holidays into opportunities for connection — with others, with cultures and with themselves. “With more than 8,800 hotels worldwide, Hilton is focused on delivering the comfort and trusted service travellers expect, alongside experiences that reflect how they truly want to spend their time,” Hutchinson said.
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Hilton Manila
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In partnership with TD, Conrad Koh Samui is giving you the opportunity to win two nights in a Oceanfront Pool Villa including breakfast for two all by answering one easy question.
October 17′ – Three cruise lines join forces for Scottish agent roadshow
Three cruise lines – Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, Hurtigruten, the world leader in expedition travel, and Star Clippers –