Search Results foroslo
5 new reasons to visit Oslo in 2020
2020 is a year for red carpets, evening dresses and champagne – at least in Oslo. As several projects long in the making are finally getting ready to open their doors to the public, you can hardly pick a more exciting time to visit Norway’s capital. The new Munch Museum Edvard Munch is one of the world’s most significant artists, and the new, iconic Munch Museum in the city centre provides evocative, engaging and modern art experiences. The Museum is one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to a single artist. Munch’s art is shown in three permanent exhibitions, which means that many of his 28,000 works are displayed at all times. Temporary shows present works by renowned Norwegian and international artists, as well as innovative contemporary artists. All in all, you’ll be able to walk through eleven exhibition halls on seven of the buildings thirteen floors. In addition to all the fantastic exhibitions, you can attend concerts, literary readings and other cultural activities and events. The whole family can also create art together in one of the fun art workshops. If you need a break, you can stop by the restaurant on the 13th floor. Chances are you’ll stay there for quite a while to enjoy both the wonderful food and the spectacular view. Oslo public library Deichman Bjørvika The country’s many libraries might be the reason why Norwegians read more than any other European nationality, and the new Oslo Public Library in Bjørkvika definitely makes the list of exceptional Norwegian libraries. The modern building is intended to be a free common area to house conversations, discussions, sharing, and learning – and reading, of course. Indoor skiing at SNØ Are you visiting in the summer, but still want to go skiing? Now you can! 20 minutes from the Oslo city centre by train, the indoor skiing arena SNØ has alpine slopes for both experts and beginners, a terrain park, and cross-country tracks for all levels. Oh, and snø means snow, by the way. The cultural destination Ramme Ramme is a brand new cultural destination just south of Oslo. The property used to belong to Edvard Munch, who painted some of his most famous works here. “The place I have is almost the most beautiful along the entire coast”, he wrote to his aunt Karen in 1910. But Ramme isn’t just about Munch – they arrange art exhibitions, plays, concerts, and other cultural activities as well. While you’re here, you can stay at Ramme fjordhotell, eat organic food from the visitors’ farm Ramme gård, and take a stroll in the forest or park. The Climate House in the botanical gardens Learn about all things climate in the new Climate House in Oslo’s Botanical gardens. The main target group is young people, but there’s a lot to digest here for the whole family – not only about what climate change means for the planet but also about the solutions that exist. Hopefully, you’ll be inspired to take action! Norway is only a short flight away, and the place to experience the magical northern lights and the midnight sun above the Arctic Circle; visit the world-famous fjords surrounded by spectacular mountains and glaciers; and in the midst of stunning scenery, enjoy gourmet food and culture in the cities of Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger and Tromsø.
Oslo’s landmark hotel is renewed
Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, Oslo has been a symbol and a landmark over the Norwegian capital since the opening in 1975. In order to stay relevant and continue to give the guests the best possible Oslo experience, the hotel has now completed its most extensive renovation ever. The multi-million renewal is part of the Radisson Hotel Group’s biggest ever renovation program in the Nordics. “We are renewed and transformed this hotel. Here, business travellers have all they need for the perfect meeting and leisure guests who are here to get the best Oslo experience can enjoy Nordic cuisine in 26 North Restaurant & Social Club, the international style Summit Bar and a swimming pool to relax and enjoy”, said Tomi Meriläinen, general manager of Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, Oslo. The 22-floor high hotel has renovated its restaurant, lobby, guest rooms, meeting and events area and social spaces, in addition to the famous Summit Bar on the 21st floor.
Air France–KLM moves to become majority owner in SAS
Air France–KLM announced that it will initiate proceedings to take a majority stake in SAS, marking a new and strategically important chapter for the Scandinavian carrier and a landmark strategic development in the European aviation landscape. “Air France–KLM becoming the majority owner would mark a defining moment for SAS and a strong signal of confidence in the direction we’re heading,” says Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of SAS. “It brings not just stability but will also allow for deeper industrial integration and the full backing of one of the world’s leading airline groups, once regulatory approval has been obtained. Together, we will be better positioned to deliver greater value to our customers, our colleagues, and the wider region.” SAS continues to invest in fleet renewal and network expansion while earning recognition as the most punctual airline in the world. This consolidation supports SAS’ ability to grow more sustainably, enhance customer experience, and reinforce its role in international aviation. “This relationship is grounded in mutual respect, dedication to operational excellence and strong sustainability ambitions. As global interest in Scandinavia continues to grow, we believe this consolidation strengthens SAS’ ability to connect Scandinavia with the world—and the world with Scandinavia—by positioning Copenhagen as our global hub for the region, while continuing to uphold strong and strategic operations in both Oslo and Stockholm,” added Van der Werff. “We remain true to our identity, heritage, and deep customer focus. SAS will continue to be proudly Scandinavian at heart, look and feel.” The decision also reflects a broader industry trend toward consolidation— a step that is essential to ensuring long-term competitiveness for European carriers in an increasingly globalized market.
Leisure travel is expected to triple in value to $15 trillion by 2040: BCG Report
Leisure travel is set to triple in value by 2040, growing from $5 trillion today to $15 trillion, according to a new report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG). But it’s not international jet-setting fueling the boom. The real engine is closer to home: domestic leisure travel is projected to generate nearly $12 trillion by 2040, while regional travel is set to triple to more than $2 trillion. International travel will grow the fastest but still hold the smallest share—reaching $1.4 trillion. Meanwhile, the next wave of travelers is increasingly coming from emerging markets like China, India, Saudi Arabia, and Vietnam—outpacing traditional tourism heavyweights like the US, UK, and Germany. These are among the findings of BCG’s report, Unpacking the $15 Trillion Opportunity in Leisure Travel, based on a survey of nearly 5,000 travelers across 11 countries, conducted by BCG’s Center for Customer Insight, plus an analysis of travel patterns in 68 markets. "India is poised to become one of the most dynamic leisure travel markets globally. With domestic leisure travel spend projected to grow at 12% annually and international spend at 10% through 2040, Indian travelers are increasingly exploring both their own country and the world. There is a clear shift observed in the travel industry led by younger generations—Millennials and Gen Z—who are not only traveling more, but also seeking experiences that blend value, personalization, and purpose. India also stands out for its strong preference for multigenerational travel and the growing popularity of ‘bleisure’, with over 70% of travelers looking to combine work and leisure. As travel becomes more digital, culturally relevant, and experience-led, India’s rising consumer base will play a pivotal role in shaping the next chapter of global leisure travel.”, said Nitima Malhotra, Partner, BCG. Key Indian Findings: Younger generations in India are 22% more likely to anticipate taking more trips in the next year and also have higher intent to spend more on travel Indian travelers prefer nature, city, beach and cultural destinations (58%), with higher interest in spiritual (10%) than other countries Indian travelers primarily take trips to relax (15%), explore (13%), and escape (11%) with higher focus on religion (6%) than other countries 28% of Indian travelers typically take trips with a partner or spouse and 23% with immediate family; only 9% travel alone Indian travelers are most influenced by activities (18%) and ease of travel (17%) with lower emphasis on cost and family/friends Most Indians plan to combine business with leisure travel; millennials are most likely to do so (35%) 81% of Indian travelers have combined business with leisure travel at least once 59% of Indians use AI tools, while 80% say human touch remains important “With more people taking vacations—and taking them more frequently—we’re seeing a profound shift in who’s traveling, what they expect, and how they plan their journeys,” said Christina Mühlenbein, a BCG managing director and partner, and a coauthor of the report. “New demographics, digital habits, and expectations are rewriting the rules.” Trends Shaping the Traveler of the Future Millennials and Gen-Zers are now the most influential travelers globally.They plan more trips and spend more compared with older generations. These younger travelers are digitally savvy and socially conscious. Once considered niche, solo travel is now mainstream.Today, 18% to 39% of travelers say they take solo trips. This is often driven by younger adventurers seeking cultural experiences, spiritual getaways, or wellness retreats over traditional beach vacations. “Bleisure” travel isn’t just a pandemic-era phenomenon. In China, India, Nigeria, and Saudi Arabia, more than 70% of travelers plan to combine business and leisure trips. This compares with just 15% to 30% in the US, UK, and Germany. What Travelers Want Across all markets, relaxing and spending quality time with loved ones remain top reasons to travel, but how people relax is shifting. While traditional beach getaways, urban adventures, and nature experiences are still popular, BCG’s report finds that travelers are increasingly motivated by cultural exploration, health and wellness retreats, and spiritual or religious journeys. Food tourism is also booming, where Chinese, Vietnamese, and Indonesian travelers ranked food as a top motivator. “People are seeking travel experiences that reflect who they are,” said Dennis Utzerath, a BCG managing director and partner, and a coauthor of the report. “Traditional beach and city getaways haven’t lost their charm. But more and more, travelers are prioritizing meaning, convenience, and personal fulfillment alongside relaxation.” AI Is the New Travel Agent Travelers—especially those from emerging markets—are turning to AI for their trip plans. Many consumers in China (65%), India (59%), Indonesia (58%), and Vietnam (51%) report that they’re using AI-powered tools and chatbots to plan and book trips. But 79% to 85% of travelers from these same markets also say that human touch points remain important. “The travelers of tomorrow look different—who they are, who they travel with (or without), what they expect, and how they make decisions,” said Lara Koslow, a BCG managing director and senior partner, and a coauthor of the report. “To stay relevant, travel companies will need to get ahead of these shifts—or risk being left off the itinerary.”
The Emirates A350 makes a debut in Amman
The Emirates A350 has touched down at Queen Alia International Airport, marking the start of its regular service on the second daily flight between Dubai and Amman. EK 905 departed Dubai at 2210 hrs on 19 May and landed in Amman at 0015 hrs early morning on 20th May. EK 906, took off from Amman at 0205 hrs and reached Dubai at 0605 hrs this morning. * The three-class Emirates A350 features 312 seats, including 32 next-generation Business Class lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 layout, 21 Premium Economy seats in a 2-3-2 configuration, and 259 spacious Economy Class seats in a 3-3-3 layout. Designed for comfort, the aircraft offers higher ceilings, wider aisles, and a quieter cabin environment. Passengers across all classes enjoy Emirates’ latest generation of in-flight entertainment with a cinematic viewing experience, enhanced cabin lighting, faster Wi-Fi, and improved seat ergonomics. The A350’s arrival in Amman marks a significant milestone in Emirates’ longstanding commitment to Jordan dating back to 1986. It also reflects the airline’s ongoing investment in the Jordanian market, strengthening connectivity, tourism, and trade links between Dubai, Amman and beyond. In addition to the A350, Emirates also operates the iconic A380 to Amman on EK903/904. The Emirates A350 currently serves six other short and medium haul destinations including Edinburgh, Kuwait, and Mumbai, and will soon start serving more destinations like Oslo, Istanbul, and Ho Chi Minh City, to name a few. By the end of this year, the airline will serve 17 global cities with the A350. For more information or to book tickets, visit emirates.com. Tickets can also be booked on Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates contact centre, or via travel agents.
Radisson Hotel Group launches first two Verified Net Zero hotels
Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce its first two hotels to achieve Verified Net Zero status, achieving 2040 requirements of the Net Zero Methodology for Hotels today. The properties in Oslo and Manchester are taking steps to eliminate Scope 1 & 2 emissions, significantly reduce Scope 3 emissions, aligned with the GHG protocol, and remove the remaining footprint with Nature Based Solutions. The achievement is unique, as the alignment with the Net Zero Methodology for Hotels is verified by a third party, TÜV Rheinland. With the launch of two Verified Net Zero Hotels, Radisson Hotel Group is setting the gold standard for sustainable hospitality. Net Zero actions in carbon footprint Scopes 1, 2 and 3 The Verified Net Zero program is comprehensive and includes the carbon footprint from energy use (Scopes 1 & 2 as defined by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol or GHG) as well as the hotel’s operational and supply chain footprint (Scope 3). Actions include the use of 100% renewable energy, achieved through electrification of hotels and/or the purchase of 100% renewable energy for all hotel functions from heating, cooling, hot water to cooking and spa & pool facilities. Next to overhauling operations to minimize waste, Radisson Hotel Group has re-evaluated its supply chains with a focus on Food & Beverage, and other sources of emissions such as hotel related transportation to minimize emissions. All remaining emissions are compensated using Nature Based carbon credits from carbon removal in partnership with Agreena, the largest soil carbon program in Europe, supporting over 2,300 farmers to regenerate more than 4.5 million hectares of European farmland. “Radisson Hotel Group aims to become Net Zero by 2050. While the move is easier in new build properties, the reality is that 80% of the buildings that need to become Net Zero by 2050 are already built. We believe it is critical to move as fast as possible with these existing buildings. Today, we are demonstrating that Net Zero conversion hotels are possible. In a conversion approach, the Manchester and Oslo hotels prove that non-sustainable hotels can become high performing asset classes with a positive impact on the planet. This approach needs to be serious and verified. And we are doing so with TÜV Rheinland. These Verified Net Zero hotels bring the future forward and offer guests the pinnacle of sustainable stays.” commented Federico J. González, Executive Vice Chairman at Radisson Hotel Group. How guests will experience Verified Net Zero during their stay The opportunity to stay at a Verified Net Zero property allows guests to become part of a forward-thinking movement that combines comfort and innovation with sustainability. Verified Net Zero properties do this through three key features: 100% renewable energy, low-carbon menus, and by being a minimal waste hotel. Radisson Hotel Group's Verified Net Zero properties give guests the unique opportunity to stay in a hotel knowing their stay has a net zero carbon footprint. Using 100% renewable energy sources means that Verified Net Zero hotels do not depend on using environmentally damaging fossil fuels for heating, cooling, hot water, and cooking. The Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel, has installed heat pumps to generate hot water. Together with a fully electrified kitchen using induction cooking, the hotel is entirely eliminating gas use. Because the hotel buys 100% renewable electricity, none of the electricity used at the hotel comes from fossil fuels. The Radisson RED Oslo City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel, is powered by a combination of renewable electricity and heating provided by the city. Oslo is one of the few cities in Europe to use fully renewable energy for its district heating by using renewable heat generated from multiple sources such as city waste treatment, or data centers. Radisson Hotel Group partnered with Klimato – a specialized partner from Sweden – to develop low-carbon menus by analyzing the entire food offering for in-room dining menus, M&E menus and the breakfast buffet, curating recipes to lower their overall carbon footprint. Guests are informed by clear labels, ranking recipes’ carbon footprints from A (best) to E (worst). Menus focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients while reducing recipe carbon footprints up to 40%, without compromising on taste. New measures are in place to minimize waste based on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle principles. Guests can rest assured a maximum of the waste will be avoided or recycled, and none of the waste goes to landfill. To enhance recycling and minimize waste, Verified Net Zero hotels: Use kitchen food waste management software – eSmiley – which tracks the weight of food leftovers on plates when they return to the kitchen, updating menu portions and ingredients to minimize waste Offer unused ingredients on the social innovation platform Too Good to Go – providing the community with tasty affordable meals avoiding readymade meals going to waste Recycle coffee pods in partnership with Nespresso Provide glass water bottles in guest and conference rooms, as opposed to PET plastic Offer recycling bins in all guestrooms and main public areas including the lobby and conference rooms Conduct waste audits to ensure high accuracy of recycling throughout the hotel Reduce paper use with the Stay E-concierge app which displays hotel bookable services, and provide online check-in, check-out, and e-invoicing Use 100% bulk bathroom amenities and recycle the packaging with Clean the World Adopt plastic free dry amenities and implement a program to minimize wastage of accessory amenities Regarding the announcement, Inge Huijbrechts, Chief Sustainability & Security Officer at Radisson Hotel Group, said, “With the opening of our first two Verified Net Zero hotels, Radisson Hotel Group demonstrates its commitment to Net Zero 2050, and to showcasing truly sustainable hospitality. For the first time, we focus on reducing emissions from energy, operations and the supply chain. As we face the evolving challenge of climate change, Radisson Hotel Group is taking an essential step in reshaping the future of hospitality, one Verified Net Zero hotel at a time.” Re-opening of Radisson Net Zero Hotel Manchester City Centre Following the refurbishment of the Park Inn by Radisson property, Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel, brings a rebranded/upgraded hospitality experience, located just steps from the AO Arena and Manchester Victoria train station. The hotel provides the perfect location for those visiting the renowned AO Arena - a leading music, events and entertainment venue - either as a place to enjoy a sustainable stay or somewhere to enjoy dinner & drinks before heading to a show. The neighboring Manchester Victoria station has connections both locally across the Greater Manchester region and nationally, including linking the city with London in just over two hours. The clean and modern Scandinavian-inspired design of Radisson is ready to be experienced in all 252 guest rooms and suites, providing balance, wellbeing and a calming environment, featuring neutral tones and natural design elements. A welcoming bar and restaurant offers guests a variety of dishes and an outdoor terrace, ensuring a memorable stay for both leisure and business visitors. The hotel is tailored for groups and family get-togethers, with rooms featuring two double beds as well as open-plan spaces for relaxing and socializing. Guests can unwind in the tranquil spa, with a range of beauty treatments on offer as well as enjoying the heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room and gym. Additionally, the hotel’s state-of-the-art event facilities provide capacity for up to 220 attendees, making it the perfect venue for a wide range of meetings or celebrations. Within a few minutes’ walk of the hotel sits Manchester’s finest shopping, cultural and leisure destinations, including Selfridges, Corn Exchange Manchester, Manchester Cathedral and the National Football Museum.
Thai Airways marks 120 years of Thai-Norwegian diplomacy
Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) continues to elevate its strategic role as a Nordic–Asia Pacific aviation hub with daily direct flights between Bangkok and Oslo. That said, in commemoration of the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the Kingdom of Norway, Thai Airways proudly supports the Charity Walk–Run in Oslo event, scheduled for 22nd June. Organised by the Royal Thai Embassy in Oslo in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital at Mahidol University, the event aims to foster the profound and enduring international cooperation that has been established since 1905 with the historic visit of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) to the Kingdom of Norway, marking official diplomatic ties between the two Kingdoms. All proceeds from the "Charity Walk–Run in Oslo" event, with no deductions, will go to Siriraj Hospital's fund for underprivileged patients. Bridging two worlds together through seamless flight The Thai flag-carrier proudly provides world-class full-service travel experiences for business travelers, tourists, and Nordic residents alike, ensuring convenience and comfort throughout the flight. The daily Bangkok–Oslo direct flight serves as a central link between Nordic and Asia-Pacific regions, enabling travelers to smoothly connect from Oslo to key Scandinavian cities, including Stockholm, Helsinki, Iceland, and Copenhagen. Likewise, this route also allows passengers to conveniently transit through Bangkok to access major Asia-Pacific destinations such as Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, Singapore, Sydney, Melbourne, Ho Chi Minh City, Bali, Vientiane, and Phnom Penh, via THAI's extensive partner network. Passengers from both regions can therefore plan their business and leisure trips easily and smoothly.
Atlas Ocean Voyages launches Explorer’s Choice
Atlas Ocean Voyages officially launched its new and uniquely customisable Explorer’s Choice offer today, 7th April. Explorer’s Choice enables travellers to enhance their expedition experience as they are given options with which to personalise their cruises. From today onwards, those booking an expedition with Atlas will have the unique opportunity to select the amenity that best suits their travel style, whether it’s adventure, indulgence, or seamless connectivity. According to Atlas Ocean Voyages president and CEO James A Rodriguez: “At Atlas, we believe that every expedition is as unique as the traveller experiencing it. With Explorer’s Choice, guests can tailor their journey to fit their preferences, whether they want to extend their stay, stay connected, or maximise their savings.” Options to choose from Guests will be able to choose from three options: an air credit, a pre-expedition hotel and land package or enhanced unlimited WiFi. Choose the option of an air credit of up to US$2000 and enjoy extra savings on your booking when you arrange your own flights, giving you complete control over your travel plans. Want to start your adventure early? Select a pre-expedition hotel or land package and arrive ahead of embarkation to explore your departure port at your leisure, immersing yourself in its culture and charm before setting sail. But if staying connected is a priority, opt for the Enhanced Unlimited WiFi package as it is perfect for keeping in touch with loved ones, managing business remotely, or sharing your once-in-a-lifetime journey on social media. Whatever your choice, Explorer’s Choice is designed to let you decide what’s most important, making your Atlas voyage even more special and truly unforgettable. Booking to your destination of choice Guests booking a stateroom can select one of the three complimentary amenities, while those booking a suite may choose two. Expeditions may be customised based on the destination: Antarctica (November 2025 – March 2026): Air Credit: US$2000 per stateroom (US$1000 per guest) Two day pre-expedition land program in Buenos Aires – Includes hotel, guided tours, and dining experiences. Enhanced Unlimited WiFi Arctic (2025 and 2026): Air Credit: US$1500 per stateroom (US$750 per guest) One-night pre-expedition hotel stay in New York or Oslo Enhanced Unlimited WiFi Mediterranean (2025 & 2026): Air Credit: US$1000 per stateroom (US$500 per guest) One night pre-expedition hotel stay Enhanced unlimited WiFi Northern Europe, Iceland, Caribbean, Transoceanic (2025 & 2026): Air Credit: US$1000 per stateroom (US$500 per guest) One-night pre-expedition hotel stay Enhanced unlimited WiFi With Explorer’s Choice, every traveller can personalise their voyage to best suit their adventure. Whether it's the convenience of an air credit, an immersive pre-expedition stay, or staying seamlessly connected, Atlas Ocean Voyages ensures a truly unique and tailored expedition experience.
Accor achieved record performance in 2024, setting the stage for further expansion in 2025
Accor shares an overview of its 2024 development activity and growth prospects for 2025 and beyond. Accor expanded its portfolio with the opening of 293 hotels and resorts in 2024, adding an impressive 50,000 rooms. As a result, Accor’s global network now comprises over 5,680 hotels and 850,000 rooms in operation, with an additional 1,381 properties and 233,000 rooms in the pipeline. In the last five years, the Group’s pipeline has continued to increase in value at a significantly quicker pace than in volume, further enriching the quality of its global hotel portfolio. The company’s development performance was particularly robust across MEA APAC in 2024. The Middle East and Asian markets continue to grow at pace and, in 2025, over 60% of Accor’s planned openings are focused within this part of the world. Market Leadership and Brand Strength with Premium, Midscale & Economy Accor continues to strengthen its Premium, Midscale & Economy (PM&E) Division with a targeted approach to growth, focused on iconic brands such as Pullman, Novotel and ibis and expansion opportunities in sought-after destinations. With Mercure reaching the 1,000 milepost in 2024, upcoming 2025 breakthroughs include ibis opening in its 80th country and ibis Styles surpassing the 700-hotel mark. In 2024, openings across these segments included additions such as Pullman Budapest Hotel, Swissôtel Poiana Brasov, Novotel Istanbul Bomonti, and ibis Jakarta Raden Saleh. This sustained growth highlights Accor's strategic positioning in the premium, midscale and economy categories and its ability to capitalize on travel trends for ongoing success. For example, Accor’s TRIBE brand caters to the demand for design-led, experience-driven hospitality at an accessible price. The rapidly expanding brand launched new locations such as Budapest and Bangkok in 2024, offering social and flexible spaces tailored for the modern traveler. With a total of 20 hotels open and another 40 in the pipeline, TRIBE is uniquely poised to capture opportunities from this rising traveler trend. Handwritten Collection is another Accor brand that has quickly gained traction and has an ambitious global growth trajectory. Launched in 2023, the brand is a collection of carefully curated hotels that celebrate the warmth and character of their dedicated hosts. With over 25 hotels already in operation worldwide, including leading cities such as Paris, Krakow, San Francisco, Sydney, and Singapore, the brand will see its European footprint grow substantially with more than 10 hotels expected to come online over the coming months. With Accor’s premium hotel signings growing by an impressive +150% since 2019, the segment continues to show strength, with the Group’s premium footprint now representing more than 500 hotels globally. This achievement demonstrates the momentum of brands such as Pullman, Swissôtel, Mövenpick, and Grand Mercure, each redefining their hospitality offering with distinct character, deep cultural roots, and elevated guest experiences. Camil Yazbeck, Chief Development Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy, commented: "Accor’s premium, midscale and economy brands experienced exceptional momentum in 2024, with strong demand fueling expansion across key markets. Iconic brands like Pullman, Novotel and ibis are a driving force in our Group’s overall growth and are foundational to our PM&E division. Considering current industry fundamentals, hotel conversion is also a major focus of our strategy with many of our most conversion-friendly brands like Handwritten Collection, Mercure and TRIBE leading the way. With a strong pipeline, a diversified brand portfolio, and an owner-centric approach, Accor is best positioned to drive the next wave of hospitality growth in 2025 and beyond.” Strategic Acceleration in Luxury & Lifestyle Accor’s luxury portfolio - which has grown in both volume and value and counts landmark hotels such as Raffles London at The OWO; The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed Hotel in New York; Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese in Italy; and Hôtel des Arts Saigon - MGallery Collection in Vietnam among its unrivalled portfolio - continues to expand in key markets and highly coveted destinations. Some notable luxury openings for the Group over the last 12 months have included Raffles Sentosa Singapore; Raffles Jaipur in India; Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol in Spain; Fairmont Breakers Long Beach in California; Sofitel Cairo Downtown Nile in Egypt; and Chengdu Expo Waterfall Hotel - MGallery Collection in China. On the lifestyle front, Ennismore represents the Group’s presence in this rapidly growing category. Ennismore’s Delano Dubai, Rixos Tersane Istanbul, Hyde Johannesburg and 25hours Hotel The Oddbird in Jakarta have recently opened as key flagships for the Group. On average, Accor’s Luxury & Lifestyle (L&L) division opened one hotel project per week and approximately six projects were signed per month. The Group has a robust pipeline of over 280 L&L properties in development and the focus remains on high-value brands and strategic partnerships with hotel owners. 2024 saw continued signings momentum across Accor’s L&L brands, with Sofitel in particular boasting 12 new signings in the year such as Sofitel Legend The Mozart in Prague, Czech Republic. Other notable successes include the signing of Raffles Tokyo, Japan: popular urban destinations such as Tokyo continue to be in high demand, while resort and nature destinations are thriving due to a strong desire among travelers for connection with local culture and outdoor experiences. Mexico and the Caribbean are also key markets for the Group’s development of resort and all-inclusive offerings. In late 2024, Ennismore signed and opened SLS Playa Mujeres, the brand’s first all-inclusive resort set on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Ennismore also signed The Hoxton Oslo and Melbourne, 25hours Heart of Khobar, Mama Lake Como and Rixos Phu Quoc to name just a few. Last year, Accor also secured record activity through Accor One Living, an industry-first platform focused on the development, design, and operation of mixed-use projects and branded homeowner communities. The Group, which is #2 hospitality player in branded residences worldwide, now services and supports 7,000+ homeowners at close to 50 branded residence communities operating across 25+ distinct brand offerings. The Group also witnessed a high pace of conversion across its L&L division, driven by collection icons MGallery and Emblems, with 55+ hotels sitting collectively across their development pipelines. MGallery’s expansion includes the recent opening of Marival Armony Punta Mita – MGallery Collection in Mexico earlier this year and an upcoming debut in the Caribbean with The Whimsy Hotel – MGallery Collection in Saint Martin. Meanwhile, Emblems Collection recently signed Elatos Resort, a luxurious chalet set in the heart of Greece's alpine wilderness, which is set to reopen in the second half of 2026. Finally, one of the travel industry’s most anticipated 2025 events is the relaunch of the legendary Orient Express, a centenary brand with deep cultural significance. This presents a significant milestone, with the first trains set to embark in April 2025. The launch will coincide with the debut of Orient Express La Minerva in Rome which will also open and play a key part in the iconic brand’s revival. And earlier this month, the Group signed other coveted locations in Italy: Raffles - Raffles Lake Como - marking the brand’s fifth hotel in Europe – and Hotel Bellevue Cortina d’Ampezzo, Emblems Collection. Agnès Roquefort, Chief Development Officer, Luxury & Lifestyle commented: “Accor’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio remains unmatched, and 2024 marked a year of remarkable progress. With strong momentum in high-potential markets, we have expanded the footprint of our highly sought after brands, accelerated conversions, and introduced new, elevated experiences. Our strategy continues to be driven by a vision of creating meaningful and transformative guest experiences while maximizing value for our owners and partners. As we build on this success, we remain committed to shaping the future of luxury and lifestyle hospitality in 2025 and beyond.” Strategically Positioned to Leverage Market Opportunities in 2025 and Beyond The Group is focused on driving innovation and expanding its footprint in 2025, with a lineup of key openings and a robust development pipeline that includes a strong presence in key growth markets such as Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Accor’s strategy centers on tapping into these regions with a targeted focus, including luxury resorts and lifestyle hotels that cater to evolving consumer demands, such as sustainable travel and multi-purpose spaces. The momentum in 2024 and excitement around 2025 underscores the Group’s determination to redefine and invigorate the hospitality experience.
Emirates discloses seven more destinations to be served with A350
Emirates has revealed the next seven cities to be served by its A350, as more newly delivered aircraft featuring the airline’s latest cabin innovations enter scheduled service. With the latest tranche of planned Emirates A350 deployments, the airline is expanding the list of its short to medium haul destinations served in the Middle East/GCC and Europe. For the first time, the Emirates A350 will make its debut in Africa and Southeast Asia. Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates Airline said: “Our strategic A350 expansion across diverse geographies in the Middle East/GCC, Europe, Africa and Southeast Asia leverages the aircraft’s operational flexibility and efficiency, while offering more customers expanded premium travel options and the opportunity to experience our latest generation interiors like Business Class and Premium Economy along with plenty of thoughtful touches throughout every cabin, now available in more cities than ever before.” He added: “The introduction of this aircraft and layering it on existing route schedules also enables Emirates to maintain a compelling competitive position as the airline of choice for discerning travellers looking for a unique slate of connectivity options and elevated onboard experiences they can't have with any other carrier.” The airline's latest A350 fleet additions will start scheduled operations to the following destinations: Emirates will operate the A350 six times weekly (all days except for Tuesday) to Tunis on EK 747/748 from 1 June.* Amman’s EK 905/906 will be served daily by the Emirates A350 from 1 June.* Emirates’ A350 featuring the latest cabins will land in Istanbul for the first time to commence daily operations on EK 117/118 from 1 July.* The Emirates A350’s first debut to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on its Dammam services will start on 1 July on flights EK 827/828.* The Emirates A350’s first foray into Southeast Asia will begin 1 August on the daily EK364/365 to Ho Chi Minh City.* Emirates will operate its A350 to Baghdad three times weekly (Monday, Wednesday and Sunday) on EK 941/942 from 3 August.* The Emirates A350 will debut in Oslo for the first time from 1 September on its daily EK 159/160.* Emirates will announce more A350 destinations, including long-haul routes, in the coming months as new aircraft join its fleet. In addition to the newly added cities, Emirates will layer on more A350 services to Bahrain and Kuwait. Bahrain will become a nearly all-A350 operation with the addition of the third daily EK 835/836 flight from 1 June. Kuwait will be served by a second A350 flight on the daily EK 857/858 from 1 October. In addition, Bologna will receive its first A350 on 1 June, one month ahead of its latest announced deployment date. Emirates flights to the seven A350 destinations go on sale today and can be booked on emirates.com, the Emirates App, Emirates Retail Stores, or via travel agents. The Emirates A350 features three spacious cabin classes, accommodating 312 passengers in 32 next-generation Business Class lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 configuration and a mini-bar for quick snacks, 21 Premium Economy seats and 259 generously pitched Economy Class seats. The latest onboard products reflect the airline’s commitment to delivering a premium passenger experience along with elevated comfort across every cabin class. In addition to Emirates’ signature next-generation products and award-winning service, customers can also look forward to cutting-edge tech touches like wireless charging in Business Class, electric window blinds with the Emirates Ghaf tree motif when closed in premium classes, new touchscreen call bell buttons on ice inflight entertainment screens, digital inflight menus on ice screens, 60-watt USB C charging in every seat, with the ability to pair two Bluetooth connections for personal headphones. The airline’s next-generation version of the ice inflight entertainment system offers cinematic displays and with stunning 4K and 4K HDR set on ultra-responsive touchscreens for seamless navigation, and much more.
No Event found matching your search.
Return To Home