​The small Gulf country of Oman is now poised to become a pioneer in the development of AI-powered tourism as Visit Oman introduces an AI digital hub that will revolutionize the travel and tourism industry all over the world.  

​Minor Hotels, a global hospitality leader with more than 640 properties in operation and committed development across 63 countries, announces the signing of two new resort properties in Thailand in partnership with Rasa Group: Colbert Collection Koh Samui and Avani Koh Phangan. The dual signing marks the debut of the Colbert Collection brand in Asia and reinforces Minor Hotels’ continued expansion in key resort destinations across the region.

Located on Chaweng Beach, Colbert Collection Koh Samui will become the first property under the brand in Asia. The 32-key beachfront resort, operating as Buri Rasa Village Samui, will transition to Minor Hotels management on 1 May 2026, with rebranding scheduled for Q1 2027 following an extensive renovation programme.  

​Escorted touring brands Travelsphere and Just You have launched a ‘Holiday Assurance Guarantee’.

Valid on new bookings made until May 31 and for tours departing in 2026, it allows travellers to amend their booking as many times as required up to 75 days prior to departure without any amendment fees*.  

​Virgin Voyages has confirmed the return of its annual Eat & Drink Festival, with a new ‘Festival of Senses’ concept.

The programme will run across the four-ship fleet on a limited number of August and September sailings, offering a series of food and beverage-led experiences designed to enhance onboard dining for Sailors (guests).

New for 2026 is ‘A Feast for the Senses’, an immersive culinary event hosted in the onboard nightclub, The Manor. The experience combines film, interactive elements and tasting opportunities, with Sailors moving through a series of staged food and drink moments.  

​Costa Rica closed 2025 with 2.68 million international air arrivals. Growth of just 1%, against a global tourism industry that expanded 6.7% over the same twelve months. For a destination that has built its reputation on sustainable luxury and nature-based travel, the gap is bruising. Guatemala grew 10% in the same period. The Dominican Republic continued to break its own records. Colombia kept posting double-digit gains quarter after quarter.