COSTA DEL SOL, SPAIN—Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol has opened its doors, setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Andalusia. This highly anticipated, exceptional new resort is Fairmont’s flagship resort in Spain, bringing the brand’s legendary blend of elegance, bespoke service, and authentic local experiences to one of the country’s most sought-after destinations. True to Fairmont’s philosophy of fostering an authentic connection with the local environment and culture, Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol blends contemporary aesthetics with traditional Andalusian design in a setting where every detail has been meticulously curated to offer an immersive and unparalleled experience inspired by the essence of the...

INTERNATIONAL REPORT—According to a recent survey conducted by digital travel platform Agoda, sustainable travel is a major consideration for most Asian travelers. The survey “2025 Sustainable Travel Survey”, ranked travelers from the Philippines as the most conscious about sustainability, with 86 percent stating it was a key factor in their travel plans for 2025. Travelers from India (82 percent), Taiwan (80 percent), Malaysia (80 percent), and Vietnam (77 percent) also showed a strong commitment to sustainable travel. The survey drew upon responses from over 6,000 participants across 11 Asian markets. It highlighted that sustainable travel, characterized by authentic experiences and off-peak...

INTERNATIONAL REPORT—In 2025, 93 percent of global travelers expressed a desire to make more sustainable travel choices, with 58 percent actively changing their travel habits to do so, as indicated in Booking.com’s Sustainability and Travel Report 2025. Traveling sustainably is no longer just a trend, but increasingly a priority for many. As awareness grows around the impact of travel on the environment, more destinations are stepping up to offer experiences that are both unforgettable and that can continue to be enjoyed by all for years to come. To mark its annual research, Booking.com is profiling a list of global destinations,...

BETHESDA, MD.—As the United States completes its recognition of National Volunteer Month, Marriott International announced it has exceeded its volunteerism goal of 15 million hours served around the world—one year ahead of schedule—supporting the company’s sustainability and social impact platform, Serve 360: Doing Good in Every Direction. From 2016 through the end of 2024, Marriott associates completed a total of 15.6 million volunteer hours in their local communities. “Since our founding nearly 100 years ago, Marriott has been committed to serving our world. I am deeply grateful to our associates, Business Councils, and owners for the thoughtful and creative ways they...

CHARLESTON, W. VA.—West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced the creation of “Tourism Works,” an online education program designed to enhance hospitality skills and training among the state’s tourism workforce and everyday West Virginians. The announcement was made with the support of over 200 tourism and hospitality industry professionals at the State Capitol to celebrate the tourism industry’s record-setting $8.7 billion annual economic impact. “As Governor, one of my top priorities is to grow our economy, our population, and our workforce,” said Governor Patrick Morrisey. “Our tourism and hospitality industry is one of the best in the country, and it will be a...

AMSTERDAM—The latest research conducted by Booking.com in 2025 has revealed a significant shift in traveler perceptions regarding sustainability. A majority are now aware of their impact on local communities and the environment. This marks the first time that over half of the participants (53 percent) have shown an understanding of tourism’s influence on these areas. The study, which is the 10th edition of Booking.com’s annual research, delved into consumer attitudes and intentions concerning the social and ecological implications of travel. The findings reflect a growing discussion on the repercussions of tourism on destinations. Interestingly, more than half of the travelers (57 percent)...

CHICAGO—Hilton, a global leader in hospitality, has become the first signatory from its sector to sign the U.S. Food Waste Pact, the national voluntary agreement focused on reducing food waste in the U.S., co-led by nonprofits ReFED and World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Hilton joins 19 other companies and organizations across the food system who have signed onto the Pact, which uses the “Target, Measure, Act” framework to reduce food waste in businesses’ operations. According to ReFED, 31 percent of food produced in the United States goes uneaten or unsold, with the vast majority becoming waste that gets sent to destinations like landfills, incinerators, and sewer...

WESTHAMPTON, N.Y.—Set to offer a fresh take on luxury hospitality in the Hamptons, Three Ducks will open its doors in summer 2025. The hotel is a collaboration and debut property for designer-developers Randall Stone and Elizabeth Bakhash of Three Ducks Hospitality, a hospitality brand focused on creating design-forward properties that celebrate the locale. Stone and Bakhash first met while working at a New York brand and experience agency, where they discovered a shared passion for redefining hospitality through curated guest experiences. A much-needed addition to the vibrant and newly revitalized Westhampton Beach, Three Ducks is a thoughtful redevelopment of the...

MIAMI—The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), the foremost gathering of international leaders in the $6.3 trillion global wellness economy, announced that its 19th annual conference will take place in Abu Dhabi November 18 to 21, 2025, at the iconic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. This milestone event is being held through a strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Investment Gate (ADIG) and Shura Global Consultancy (SGC) and with support from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention. Bringing together government leaders and industry visionaries, the 2025 Global Wellness Summit will solidify Abu Dhabi’s position as a prominent global wellness hub, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to...

ARMENIA—Armenia has been named Destination of the Year for Adventure Tourism at the PATWA International Travel Awards 2025, held at ITB Berlin, one of the world’s leading travel trade shows. This prestigious award highlights Armenia’s growing reputation as a top global destination for adventure seekers. From its rugged mountains and scenic hiking trails to exhilarating outdoor activities like rock climbing, paragliding, and off-road exploration, Armenia offers an unparalleled experience for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts. The country’s rich cultural heritage, combined with breathtaking landscapes, makes it an ideal choice for travelers looking for unique and immersive adventures. Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairman of the...