TAMPA, FLA.—The Wellness Tourism Association (WTA), a respected voice in global wellness tourism, announces its relaunch as a for-profit entity under the ownership and leadership of Robin Ruiz, Founder & CEO of WITT (Wellness in Travel & Tourism), who now also serves as WTA’s President & CEO. Founded in 2018 as a U.S.-based nonprofit, the WTA has been instrumental in shaping the modern wellness tourism sector by: • Building a global network of DMOs, suppliers, travel advisors, practitioners, retreat leaders, media, and aligned partners; • Publishing the first Glossary of Wellness Tourism Terms; • Conducting foundational industry research and consumer surveys; and • Creating the first Wellness Travel...

HONOLULU—The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) has awarded $980,000 in funding to 26 community-based organizations through its Kukulu Ola program, as part of its commitment to supporting and strengthening Native Hawaiian culture by providing genuine experiences for residents and visitors statewide. “The Kukulu Ola program enables us to invest directly in the people and organizations who are keeping Hawaii’s culture thriving,” said Caroline Anderson, Interim President and CEO of HTA. “These efforts enrich the lives of Hawaii’s residents while giving visitors an opportunity to connect more deeply with our island home.” The Kukulu Ola program supports organizations that perpetuate Hawaiian cultural practices,...

STUART, FLA.—Big Five Tours & Expeditions announced its official certification as a Certified B Corporation, joining a global community of businesses that meet the highest verified standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. This milestone, in the company’s 52 years, marks the beginning of an exciting chapter—one focused on not only honoring the legacy of ethical travel, but on building the future of the industry in collaboration with its most valuable ally: the travel advisor. Founded in 1973 by the late Mahen Sanghrajka, Big Five was born out of a vision to offer more than just tourism experiences, but...

COPENHAGEN—Massive popular resistance, water guns, and locals demonstrating is the reality in many big cities and popular tourist destinations around the world, where tourism faces issues with overcrowding and visitor behavior. In clear contrast to these negative scenarios, Copenhagen has taken forward-thinking steps by engaging and rewarding tourists for their behavior. The aim of CopenPay is to inspire and nudge travelers about the choices they make when they travel. Copenhagen offers free boat tours and bike rentals and even a free lunch to tourists for collecting litter, choosing public transport or helping out in a communal garden. Last summer, the...

NATIONAL REPORT—Flooring upgrades often drive long-term sustainability goals in lodging operations, particularly when considering material sourcing, maintenance, and guest expectations. Lodge owners face pressure to select products that reduce environmental impact while still appealing to eco-minded travelers and commercial facility standards. Understanding the differences between flooring can help owners plan renovations and retrofits that align with both branding and performance expectations. Environmental Manufacturing Footprint Laminate flooring utilizes synthetic cores layered with printed visuals, often relying on adhesives and resins that have higher energy demands. Wood products, on the other hand, originate from harvested timber, and sustainably sourced hardwoods can contribute to...

ATLANTA—AAHOA issued the following statement in response to the murder of a hotel staff member who was killed last Wednesday morning in Dallas. The slaying comes after the 2024 murders of AAHOA Member Hemant Mistry in Oklahoma City and of Pravin R. Patel in Sheffield, Ala. (See related article.) “Our hearts are absolutely broken for the victim’s family, who witnessed this unimaginable act of violence,” said AAHOA Chairman Kamalesh (KP) Patel. “Hotels are not just workplaces for our members and their teams—they are homes, businesses, and community spaces. The brutality of this crime is beyond comprehension, and our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones, the...

ALASKA—Alaska has embraced its identity as “The Last Frontier” and experienced significant growth in eco-tourism, fueled by rising cruise traffic and interest in outdoor recreation, helping to offset the state’s declining oil industry. Despite challenges with strained infrastructure and political uncertainty, the overall outlook remains positive, with tourism revenues reaching record highs year-over-year. The state of Alaska, once competing for the top spot among American states for crude oil production, has been adjusting to a new reality. While oil production still accounts for a considerable 40 percent of total state revenue, according to The Tundra Drums, that percentage is significantly below oil...

LAS VEGAS—Coverings, the largest and preeminent event for the ceramic tile and natural stone industry in North America, has announced that Coverings 2026 will take place March 30 to April 2, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The announcement also marks the official opening of submissions for the 2026 Coverings Installation & Design (CID) Awards and nominations for the Coverings 2026 Rock Star program. “Las Vegas is a city defined by bold, forward-thinking design and unforgettable experiences,” said Jamie Rich, Coverings’ Managing Director. “It is the ideal backdrop to unite the global tile and stone community, showcase innovative trends...

INTERNATIONAL REPORT—Visiting a holiday park, ranging from lodge parks to caravan parks or glamping yurts, is a favored holiday choice for the U.K. domestic market. Estimating the market size for U.K. holiday parks is complex due to overlapping categories. However, Mintel estimates the holiday centers and parks segment revenue to be valued at £3.5bn in 2024—a 20 percent growth from pre-pandemic levels. In 2023, there were 4,754 holiday parks and campsites operating in the U.K., accounting for 320,901 pitches, with the highest number in South West England. The sector further supports approximately 230,000 full time jobs across the U.K. Holiday parks and campsites generated...

COPENHAGEN—1 Hotels, the mission-driven luxury lifestyle hotel brand founded by hospitality visionary Barry Sternlicht, announces the official opening of 1 Hotel Copenhagen, a transformative reimagining of the historic Skt. Petri. Copenhagen is one of the world’s most forward-thinking cities and a beacon of sustainability. So, it makes sense that 1 Hotels—a purpose-driven brand built around sustainable travel—chose the city for its first location in continental Europe. Drawing on Copenhagen’s commitment to climate leadership and eco-conscious living, the hotel pairs Nordic craftsmanship with a deep connection to nature. Guests will find calming interiors shaped by natural materials, living landscapes that shift with the seasons, and a lifestyle...