Escalating clashes along the Thailand–Cambodia border have raised urgent questions for travelers as both countries head into one of their busiest tourism periods.

While the situation remains highly volatile in frontier regions, the main question for winter holidaymakers is whether travel plans to Bangkok, Phuket, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and other major destinations can continue safely.

With hundreds of thousands displaced near the border and land routes closed, understanding what is happening – and how it affects tourism – is essential for anyone preparing a trip.

Travel Conditions in Major Cities Remain Stable

Despite the intensity of fighting along the 800-kilometer border, travel operations in Thailand and Cambodia’s primary tourist hubs are currently functioning. Flights between Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap continue as scheduled, and airports remain open with no direct disruptions.

Tourism authorities in both countries emphasize that the conflict is confined to remote frontier districts, far from the cities and resort areas relied upon by international visitors.

However, this week’s clashes reached unusually close to Thailand’s Trat province, bringing concern to travelers heading to popular islands such as Koh Chang, Koh Kood, and Koh Mak. Martial law is in place in parts of Chanthaburi, Trat, and Sa Kaeo provinces, and rail services from Bangkok now terminate before the border.

While these measures do not affect typical tourist itineraries, they highlight how quickly conditions can shift. In Cambodia, temple sites located directly on the frontier – including the contested Preah Vihear – are closed to the public.

For travelers planning overland routes, the most significant impact is the complete closure of land borders. Road crossings between Thailand and Cambodia are suspended, removing the possibility of combining both destinations in a single overland trip. Visitors who had planned bus or taxi transfers will need to adjust itineraries or continue by air.

Government Advisories and What Travelers Should Know

Travel advisories have tightened as the situation escalates. The UK advises avoiding all but essential travel to affected border sections, citing gunfire, artillery use, and unexploded landmines. Australia has issued a “do not travel” warning for a 50-kilometer zone on either side of the border – one of the strictest advisories issued for this area in recent years.

These warnings do not apply to the rest of Thailand or Cambodia, meaning tourism in main cities is still considered safe, though travelers should remain aware of the evolving security landscape.

As always, advisories influence insurance eligibility. In regions under “do not travel” status, coverage may be void, leaving travelers without compensation for disruptions. Those heading to unaffected regions should review policy terms carefully, monitor updates, and remain flexible with travel plans.

While the border conflict is severe and humanitarian needs are rising, tourism within Thailand and Cambodia’s primary destinations continues largely uninterrupted. Travelers can still enjoy Bangkok’s markets, Siem Reap’s temples, Phuket’s beaches, and Phnom Penh’s riverfront – but should stay informed, avoid restricted areas, and expect the possibility of changing conditions.

For now, the heart of both countries’ tourism sectors remains open, even as tensions on the frontier demand caution and close attention.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar have signed a landmark agreement to build a high-speed electric passenger railway linking their capitals, marking one of the most significant milestones in the renewed relationship between the two Gulf nations.

Announced in Riyadh during the visit of Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the deal represents a pivotal moment in regional connectivity and diplomatic cooperation. The project will create a fast, modern corridor between Riyadh and Doha, further strengthening ties that have been steadily improving after years of political tension.

According to official statements, the new high-speed line will allow trains to exceed 300 kilometers per hour, completing the journey between the two capitals in roughly two hours. This positions rail travel as a competitive alternative to the current 90-minute flight, offering a sustainable and convenient option for millions of passengers.

The network will also serve major Saudi cities such as Al-Hofuf and Dammam, expanding its role beyond bilateral travel and integrating more of the eastern region into a shared Gulf transportation vision.

The project is expected to be completed within six years and aims to accommodate up to 10 million passengers annually. Such capacity reflects the growing demand for seamless mobility across the Gulf and aligns with broader regional development strategies, including Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and ongoing Qatari efforts to diversify their economy beyond energy.

The partnership highlights not only infrastructure ambitions but also the deepening political trust between the two nations. Just a few years ago, this level of collaboration would have seemed unlikely. In 2017, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Egypt severed diplomatic and transport ties with Qatar, accusing Doha of supporting extremist groups and aligning too closely with Iran.

Qatar firmly rejected the allegations, and relations remained strained until early 2021, when the AlUla summit officially restored diplomatic ties. Since then, both countries have made significant efforts to rebuild cooperation, with high-level visits, coordinated diplomatic positions, and shared regional initiatives helping to reset relations.

The new rail agreement is seen as a culmination of this diplomatic thaw, reflecting a shift from cautious rapprochement to proactive collaboration. Leaders from both countries have continued to meet regularly, supporting joint mediation efforts and presenting a united front on key regional issues. Recent cooperation included coordinated calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and support for Qatar following heightened regional tensions.

The high-speed rail project symbolizes a long-term commitment to partnership, with economic and social benefits that extend far beyond transportation. Faster movement of people and goods is expected to stimulate tourism, business travel, and cross-border investment, strengthening the Gulf as an interconnected economic bloc.

For residents and travelers, the future Riyadh–Doha high-speed link represents a transformative leap in mobility. For the region, it stands as a powerful testament to what renewed trust and cooperation can achieve. As construction begins, the railway promises to become one of the Gulf’s most significant modern infrastructure achievements, reshaping connectivity and reinforcing stability in a rapidly evolving Middle East.

Park Hyatt Tokyo has officially reopened after an extensive 19-month restoration, marking the most significant transformation in the hotel’s 30-year history.

As Asia’s first Park Hyatt, the property has long held a special place in Tokyo’s skyline, shaping global perceptions of Japanese luxury through its distinctive architecture and cinematic atmosphere.

The renewal honors this legacy while preparing the hotel for the next generation of sophisticated travelers seeking serenity, design excellence, and cultural depth high above Shinjuku.

A New Design Approach That Honors the Icon

The renovation was guided by the Paris-based design studio Jouin Manku, known for its work on some of the world’s most emblematic hotels. The designers approached the project with a philosophy of “refinement, not reinvention,” ensuring the hotel’s spirit remained intact even as materials, lines, and textures were modernized.

The result is a renewed calm throughout the property – softer silhouettes, warmer palettes, and expanded sightlines that highlight the luminous panoramas of Tokyo and Mt. Fuji.

Guestrooms and suites now feature fluid layouts, wet-room style bathrooms, and tactile materials that invite guests to pause and retreat. Contemporary Japanese art brings a fresh narrative to the redesigned spaces, including dreamlike works by Yoshitaka Echizenya in the suites and new lithographs in standard rooms.

Iconic elements such as Noguchi lamps and magnolia motifs remain, preserving the essence of the original design while allowing the room to feel new and lived-in at the same time. Elevated accommodations, including the Park Suite and the Governor’s, Presidential, and Diplomat Suites, offer sweeping views over Harajuku, Yoyogi Park, and the Tokyo skyline.

Revitalized Dining and Wellness at Towering Heights

The reopening also debuts several renewed culinary destinations. Girandole by Alain Ducasse introduces a contemporary Parisian brasserie experience rooted in French tradition and refined with Japanese ingredients.

The Peak Lounge & Bar now offers a new cocktail program inspired by six Japanese prefectures, all presented beneath its iconic glass atrium and bamboo grove. New York Grill & Bar returns with its dramatic black-and-chrome aesthetic and bold, ingredient-driven menu under Chef Ben Wheeler. Kozue continues to showcase seasonal Japanese cuisine, highlighting the harmony and craft of modern kaiseki-inspired dining.

Club On The Park, the hotel’s wellness sanctuary spanning the 45th and 47th floors, has also been refreshed. Guests can enjoy panoramic swimming, new treatment rituals shaped by Tokyo’s natural rhythm, and revitalized fitness spaces offering daily classes and curated wellness journeys. The hotel’s design now better integrates movement, stillness, and sensory balance, reinforcing its identity as a retreat above the city.

Park Hyatt Tokyo’s restoration brings new life to an iconic destination while preserving the qualities that have made it one of the world’s most beloved hotels. The property begins its next chapter with renewed elegance, elevated experiences, and a deep respect for its architectural and cultural legacy.

The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami has reopened following a sweeping $100 million renovation, marking a major new chapter for one of South Florida’s most iconic coastal resorts.

Closed since May, the property now returns with redesigned guestrooms, refreshed dining concepts, an expanded wellness program, and upgraded leisure facilities – all set against Key Biscayne’s serene beachfront just minutes from Miami.

A Modern Coastal Retreat Reimagined

The resort’s transformation blends contemporary design with the relaxed character of island living. Guests are welcomed by a dramatic glass façade framing ocean views and breezy open-air architecture that connects indoor spaces with lush gardens and terraces. Natural textures, sun-washed colors, and streamlined furnishings define the new interiors, creating an elegant yet comfortable sense of place.

All guestrooms and suites have been fully renovated, featuring custom furniture, expanded terraces, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Biscayne Bay and tropical landscapes. The redesigned Presidential Suite stands out with more than 2,600 square feet of indoor-outdoor living space, two bedrooms, and panoramic oceanfront views.

Dining has also been revitalized with six distinct venues. Luma delivers a Mediterranean-inspired menu focused on seafood, pasta, and grilled dishes, while Paralía brings the flavors of Greece and Turkey to an open-air waterfront setting.

Additional concepts include the Rum Bar, Dune Beach Bar, Stefano’s poolside pizzeria, and Scoop gelato shop. New partnerships with Pura Vida Miami and Bissinger’s Handcrafted Chocolatier introduce wellness-driven fare and artisanal sweets.

Elevated Wellness, Leisure, and Family Experiences

Wellness is now a centerpiece of the resort’s identity. The Ritz-Carlton Spa spans 30,000 square feet and features 16 treatment rooms, three couples suites, a full-service salon, a Spa Sanctuary, and a Sensory Spa Garden with private cabanas. New and revitalized therapies emphasize sound, scent, and elemental healing, while guided renewal rituals and meditation moments help guests reconnect and unwind.

The fitness program has been expanded with an updated oceanfront gym and daily movement classes, including signature reformer workouts from Miami-based Tremble. Yoga and stretching sessions on the grand lawn provide additional opportunities to engage in mindful outdoor activity.

Across the property, leisure amenities have been refreshed to deliver a more dynamic guest experience. Updated pool areas, stylish cabanas, and an expanded menu of water sports bring new energy to the beachfront. The renowned Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center now includes tennis, pickleball, and padel courts, catering to players of all levels.

Families will appreciate the reimagined Ritz Kids Club, designed to blend calming spaces with interactive programming. Nature-inspired elements and hands-on activities encourage creativity and discovery, offering younger travelers an enriching experience tailored just for them.

The resort’s retail offerings have also been elevated, featuring boutiques that showcase coastal fashion, jewelry, and curated lifestyle products that complement the property’s renewed aesthetic.

Luxury river cruising in Southern Africa is entering a new chapter with the launch of the Zambezi Trader, a 66-passenger ship introduced by Zambezi Cruise & Safaris. Designed to elevate river tourism in Zimbabwe, the new vessel begins operating two- to four-night safari-style journeys from Msuna Island into Lake Kariba, offering travelers an entirely fresh way to experience one of the continent’s most iconic waterways.

The introduction of the Zambezi Trader marks a significant step forward for Zimbabwe’s tourism landscape. The company describes the ship as a turning point for the region, bringing modern comfort and elevated service to a river long celebrated for its wildlife, culture, and dramatic scenery.

According to Gavin Rennie, general manager of sales and marketing, the vessel represents “a new standard of excellence,” opening the Zambezi River in ways that have never been available to travelers before.

On board, guests will find 29 cabins outfitted with private balconies, air conditioning, and mosquito nets, creating a retreat that blends luxury with the practical needs of a river environment. The ship’s size allows for an intimate atmosphere, offering enough space for comfort while ensuring a personalized experience. The design also supports the vessel’s safari-inspired programming, which extends far beyond the ship itself.

Each cruise incorporates excursions aboard smaller boats, allowing travelers to explore hidden bays, narrow tributaries, and wildlife-rich corners of the Zambezi. These outings are central to the overall experience, providing access to areas that larger vessels cannot reach.

Activities include game drives along the riverbanks, birdwatching in some of Southern Africa’s most diverse ecosystems, catch-and-release fishing, and visits to local communities. Among the cultural highlights is a tour of a Tongan Village, offering guests an opportunity to learn about traditional river life and local customs.

The Zambezi Trader is also positioned to appeal to travelers seeking a seamless blend of adventure and comfort. With Lake Kariba’s vast waters and the surrounding wilderness as a backdrop, the vessel offers a distinctive alternative to land-based safaris. The slower pace of river travel allows guests to enjoy wildlife encounters from new perspectives—whether it’s elephants drinking along the shoreline, birds skimming the water, or sunsets unfolding across the lake.

Bookings for the Zambezi Trader are now open for January and future departures. Prices start at $325 per person, per night, making the experience accessible within the luxury travel market while offering a high level of value for the range of activities and accommodations included.

As travelers increasingly seek immersive and nature-focused journeys, the Zambezi Trader positions Zimbabwe as a rising destination for upscale river cruising and safari experiences.

Airport Strikes are set to dominate travel headlines on December 11 as Portugal braces for a nationwide general strike expected to paralyze transport across the country.

Nearly half of the national workforce is anticipated to participate, putting pressure on airports, rail systems, buses, metros, and tourism services at one of the busiest travel periods of the year. For visitors heading into Portugal for the holidays, the timing of this disruption could not be more challenging.

The walkout has been called by Portugal’s largest union groups in response to proposed labor reforms from the minority right-wing government. These changes would make it easier for employers to dismiss staff, extend temporary contracts, and expand mandatory minimum services during strikes.

Public-sector employees, teachers, healthcare workers, and transport staff – including cabin crew for TAP Air Portugal, easyJet, Ryanair, and Azores Airlines – will join the action, creating widespread operational strain across the travel ecosystem.

These disruptions also come on the heels of recent labor actions that affected aviation and border operations earlier this year, underscoring an ongoing period of instability across Portugal’s transport sector.

Travelers may remember our earlier report on Portugal’s airport strikes in 2025–2026, which highlighted similar patterns of walkouts causing significant nationwide delays. The December 11 strike continues that trend, signaling deeper tensions within the country’s workforce.

Flight Disruptions and Travel Expectations

Airports will face the heaviest impact as airlines prepare for mass cancellations. TAP Air Portugal, the national carrier, has already begun cutting flights and alerting passengers, emphasizing that December 11 operations will be limited to legally mandated minimum services.

A small number of flights will run to Madeira, the Azores, select European destinations, Brazil, and the United States, but the majority of scheduled flights are expected to be grounded.

Azores Airlines and SATA plan to operate a reduced set of 25 flights, mainly to maintain essential connections between the islands and mainland Portugal. With so few services available, airline disruptions may ripple beyond Portugal as connecting flights are affected across the continent.

Travelers should closely monitor their flight status and consider rebooking as early as possible. Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers maintain rights to rebooking, refunds, meals, and accommodation during extended delays – even during general strikes.

Compensation may apply if cancellations were not announced at least 14 days in advance, depending on the airline’s staffing and operational circumstances.

Transport Challenges Across Portuguese Cities

The strike’s reach extends far beyond airports. Public transportation networks in Lisbon, Porto, and other major cities will operate on reduced schedules or halt entirely. Metro lines, buses, and regional trains are expected to see major delays, forcing travelers to adjust plans for sightseeing or hotel transfers.

With fewer transport options available, taxis and ride-share services will likely experience high demand and surge pricing. Travelers arriving in Portugal should allocate extra time to reach accommodations and consider staying close to central districts where walking access to major attractions is easier.

Hotels are expected to remain open, though some may operate with limited staff. Visitors are encouraged to confirm check-in procedures ahead of arrival and prepare for longer wait times. Popular tourist destinations may also see delays or crowds, as reduced transportation complicates mobility across the country.

Despite the significant disruption expected from Portugal’s latest airport strikes and transport walkouts, travelers who stay informed, plan alternative routes, and build in flexibility can still navigate the country with confidence. Proper preparation will be essential for minimizing stress as Portugal undergoes one of its largest labor actions in more than a decade.

Euromonitor International has unveiled its Top 100 City Destinations for 2025, offering one of the clearest snapshots of how global urban tourism is evolving. The ranking evaluates cities across 55 indicators, from sustainability and infrastructure to visitor experience, safety and long-term tourism strategy.

This year’s results show a strong shift toward cleaner mobility, responsible tourism and value-driven travel – while highlighting the cities that continue to set global standards.

At the top of the list stands Paris, maintaining its No. 1 position for the fifth consecutive year. The French capital reinforced its leadership after hosting the 2024 Olympics, showcasing world-class urban planning, stronger sustainability measures and an ability to manage massive visitor flows.

Paris continues to balance heritage charm with modern efficiency, supported by pedestrian-friendly districts and iconic neighborhoods like Le Marais and Saint-Germain that keep defining global trends in food, fashion and culture.

Euromonitor International’s Top 10 City Destinations for 2025:

1. Paris – Champions sustainability, culture and mobility; remains the most complete global urban experience.
2. Madrid – Combines cultural powerhouses, sunny outdoor living and effective tourism management amid rising demand.
3. Tokyo – Exceptional infrastructure and connectivity, with neighborhoods shaping global design, fashion and tech trends.
4. Rome – A living museum with ongoing archaeological restorations adding new layers for visitors each year.
5. Milan – A leading fashion and design capital with a fast-growing culinary scene and strong economic performance.
6. New York – A creative and cultural hub experiencing a robust tourism rebound driven by Broadway, museums and waterfront parks.
7. Amsterdam – A sustainability model with cycling-first mobility and world-renowned cultural institutions.
8. Barcelona – Mediterranean energy, Gaudí landmarks and vibrant urban beaches make it one of Europe’s most dynamic cities.
9. Singapore – A clean, safe and innovative destination powered by smart urban planning and nature-led design.
10. Seoul – A global cultural force blending futuristic districts with historic palaces and traditional markets.

These cities are not only thriving today but shaping what the future of urban tourism looks like: greener transport, better crowd management, and policies that encourage longer, more meaningful visitor stays over mass tourism.

The report also highlights a shift in global traveler patterns. While the highest-ranking cities excel in infrastructure and sustainability, the world’s busiest destinations for international arrivals reveal a different story, emphasizing volume over value.

Top 10 Cities for International Arrivals in 2025:

1. Bangkok
2. Hong Kong
3. London
4. Macao
5. Istanbul
6. Dubai
7. Mecca
8. Antalya
9. Paris
10. Kuala Lumpur

Bangkok retains its crown as the most visited city worldwide, attracting more than 30 million international trips in 2025. Hong Kong follows closely, while London – despite falling to No. 18 in Euromonitor’s overall attractiveness ranking – remains one of the busiest travel hubs on the planet.

The 2025 report underscores the pressures of overtourism and the increasing use of electronic travel authorizations, entry fees and crowd-reduction measures. Many destinations now prioritize “value, not volume,” seeking travelers who spend more, stay longer and engage respectfully with local culture.

With global tourism continuing to rebound and cities adapting at different speeds, the Top 100 ranking provides a clear look at how urban destinations are competing – not just for visitors, but for sustainable, long-term appeal. Paris may lead the list, but a new era of smarter, more intentional travel is shaping the next generation of top cities.

Italy is offering a spectacular new way to welcome 2026 with the launch of La Dolce Vita’s exclusive New Year’s Eve rail journey, a three-day celebration blending Tuscan vineyards, Venetian elegance, and Michelin-starred dining.

Designed for travelers seeking an intimate and immersive holiday escape, the itinerary begins and ends in Rome, delivering an indulgent experience that functions more like a moving five-star hotel than a traditional train trip. With tickets starting at €11,280 per passenger, this journey is crafted for those who want the New Year to feel unforgettable, refined, and free from the usual crowds.

Tuscan Wines, Venetian Glamour, and a Midnight Celebration On Board

The adventure begins on December 30 at Rome’s Ostiense Station, where guests gather in a private lounge before boarding La Dolce Vita Orient Express around midday. The first leg heads to Montalcino, one of Tuscany’s most celebrated wine regions.

Travelers enjoy guided walks through the medieval town and exclusive wine tastings at the 14th-century Fortress of Montalcino. A highlight of the day is a private visit to Antinori’s Pian delle Vigne estate for a Brunello tasting – a rare experience typically inaccessible to the public.

From Tuscany, the train continues toward Venice, arriving just in time for a curated series of cultural experiences. Guests glide along the canals by private boat and take part in exclusive activities such as a glassblowing workshop and a concert in a former church. While Venice sparkles outside, the real celebration unfolds on board.

The New Year’s Eve dinner is created by Heinz Beck, the three-Michelin-star chef behind Rome’s La Pergola, setting the tone for an indulgent evening. Afterward, the bar car becomes the center of the festivities, with live performances and a DJ carrying guests into the new year before the train begins its journey back to Rome.

A Five-Star Hotel on Rails Redefining Italian Luxury Travel

Created by Orient Express and Accor, La Dolce Vita is a modern interpretation of mid-century Italian glamour. The 12-carriage train hosts just 62 passengers, offering plush cabins, elegant lounges, and the signature La Dolce Vita Suite with expansive living space and ensuite facilities. Every detail – from design to dining – has been chosen to immerse travelers in Italy’s cultural heritage.

Beyond this special New Year’s Eve journey, the train operates seasonal itineraries across Italy, exploring regions such as Portofino, Matera, Sicily, and Venice, along with themed departures focused on vineyards, truffles, or golf. The price reflects its exclusivity, with many trips exceeding €12,000 per passenger, yet demand continues to grow among high-net-worth travelers seeking meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

For those craving a distinctive and luxurious way to ring in the new year, La Dolce Vita’s “Whispers at Midnight” journey offers an exquisite blend of culture, cuisine, and celebration – an elegant invitation to step into 2026 in true Italian style.

Star Alliance has been named the World’s Leading Airline Alliance for the sixth consecutive year at the 2025 World Travel Awards, reinforcing its position as the top global network for seamless international travel.

Announced during the Grand Final Gala Ceremony in Bahrain, the award reflects the alliance’s continued focus on improving the customer journey across booking, airport processes, connections, and loyalty integration.

CEO Theo Panagiotoulias said the recognition highlights both traveler confidence and the alliance’s ongoing operational commitment. According to him, the goal remains simple: to make global travel feel effortless. He credited the teams across Star Alliance’s member airlines for delivering consistent service and thanked customers for their continued trust.

This achievement follows another notable win earlier in the year: the Star Alliance Lounge at Los Angeles International Airport earned the title of North America’s Leading Airport Lounge for the sixth year running. Known for its comfort-focused design, curated amenities, and reliable workspace options, the lounge continues to be a favorite among long-haul and frequent international travelers.

Now in its 32nd year, the World Travel Awards recognizes excellence across the global travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Winners are determined by a worldwide vote including industry professionals and consumer travel buyers. Organizers praised Star Alliance for maintaining high service standards and setting new benchmarks in the airline experience, even as global travel continues to shift and expand.

Beyond the main alliance award, several Star Alliance member airlines also secured top honors in major categories, including World’s Leading Airline to Asia and World’s Leading Airline to Europe. These individual wins underscore the strength and consistency of the alliance’s carriers, each contributing to Star Alliance’s broad and reliable international network.

With nearly 30 member airlines and an expansive global footprint, Star Alliance remains the industry’s most far-reaching airline partnership. The alliance continues to invest in technology-driven improvements, upgraded lounges, and coordinated loyalty benefits – all aimed at making international travel more connected and more predictable.

As competition in the airline alliance space intensifies, Star Alliance’s sustained leadership signals its ability to adapt while keeping traveler needs at the center of its strategy. The 2025 award not only extends a six-year winning streak but also affirms its position as the preferred choice for millions of passengers seeking smooth, integrated global travel.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is bringing holiday excitement to a new level with the launch of its “12 Nights of Hyatt” Holiday Giveaway, a luxury sweepstakes offering one winner a 12-night island-hopping escape across four of Hawaii’s most celebrated Hyatt resorts.

Valued at approximately $12,900, the prize includes stays at Hyatt Regency Maui, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, and Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa. It’s one of the most ambitious festive giveaways seen in the Hawaiian hotel space, blending premium hospitality, elevated dining, and signature island experiences into a single dream itinerary.

A Luxury Hawaiian Escape Across Four Islands

The winner will begin their journey at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, where three complimentary nights set the tone for an itinerary rooted in oceanfront living and cultural immersion. The resort has long been known for its sweeping views of Kāʻanapali Beach, interactive wildlife experiences, and award-winning dining.

As part of the prize, the winner will enjoy the resort’s new Omakase Experience at Japengo, an intimate tasting menu showcasing local Hawaiian ingredients through inventive preparations.

Each participating resort will also offer culinary credits, allowing the traveler to explore signature dining across Maui, Kauai, and Oahu. Whether savoring fresh seafood in Wailea, discovering the tranquil landscapes of Kauai, or enjoying the vibrant energy of Waikiki, the experience is designed to highlight the diversity of the Hawaiian archipelago.

According to Hyatt Regency Maui’s general manager Fred Findlen, the giveaway reflects an opportunity to connect travelers with the natural beauty and warm hospitality that define the Hyatt experience in Hawai‘i.

How Travelers Can Enter the Holiday Giveaway

The sweepstakes opens at 9:00 a.m. HST on December 12 and closes at 11:59 p.m. HST on December 22. To enter, participants must follow all four Hyatt Hawaii Instagram accounts, like the giveaway post, and tag a travel partner in the comments. Sharing the post on Instagram Stories is optional but can help increase visibility. After the contest closes, the winner will receive a direct message on December 22.

Open exclusively to U.S. residents aged 21 and older, the giveaway requires no purchase to participate. The winner will have complete flexibility when planning their island-hopping adventure, with travel permitted anytime in 2026 as long as the trip is completed by December 31. Full sweepstakes rules will be included in the collaborative post at launch.

Hyatt’s “12 Nights of Hyatt” giveaway captures the spirit of the holiday season while offering travelers the chance to experience four of Hawaii’s most luxurious resorts in a single, curated journey. For one fortunate winner, it promises an unforgettable blend of adventure, relaxation, and the authentic aloha spirit that makes Hawaii one of the world’s most desired destinations.

Jamaica is moving swiftly to rebuild its tourism sector after Hurricane Melissa battered parts of the island with 185-mile-per-hour winds on October 28.

Five weeks later, officials report significant progress, with the Jamaica Tourist Board reaffirming its goal of having most of the country’s tourism infrastructure operational by December 15. The date carries deep significance as the traditional start of the winter travel season, a critical period for an island where tourism accounts for roughly 35% of GDP and supports around 200,000 jobs.

While the storm left behind pockets of severe destruction – particularly among coastal hotels – other parts of the 146-mile-long island remained largely untouched. Airports, seaports and key transportation routes are once again open, signaling a strong rebound.

The return of airlift is equally encouraging: WestJet recently launched new service from Quebec to Montego Bay, one of the hardest-hit regions, demonstrating continued international confidence in Jamaica as a destination. Additionally, convention centers on the island are welcoming groups again, although a small number of events have been rescheduled as the recovery continues.

Resort Reopenings and Traveler Confidence

Among the most symbolic reopenings is Sandals Dunn’s River near Ocho Rios, which welcomed more than 200 travel advisors during its early December reopening phase. Sandals’ leadership emphasized not only the physical recovery of the resort but also the importance of supporting team members throughout the storm’s aftermath.

Employees received full pay, benefits and tips during the closure, a decision that drew standing ovations from guests and reinforced the brand’s longstanding reputation for taking care of its staff.

Booking retention numbers offer further optimism: 70% to 75% of pre-storm reservations at Sandals’ Jamaican properties remained intact. Travel advisors visiting the island reported strong confidence in recommending Jamaica to clients, noting that the vast majority of tourism areas are already prepared to host visitors.

This reinforces a broader truth often evident after storms in the Caribbean – recovery is rarely uniform, and many of Jamaica’s top tourism corridors experienced minimal damage.

Looking Ahead to the Winter Season

Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, Donovan White, projects that approximately 80% of the nation’s room inventory will be available by the end of January, with some properties choosing to remain closed temporarily to rebuild to even higher standards. These improvements are part of a long-term strategy to strengthen resilience and elevate visitor experiences.

As the island approaches the winter holidays, the tone among tourism leaders is overwhelmingly optimistic. Jamaica’s recovery highlights not only the resiliency of its infrastructure but also the dedication of its hospitality workforce and the loyalty of travelers who continue to choose the island even in challenging times.

For visitors planning a winter getaway – whether to Montego Bay’s beaches, Negril’s cliffs, or the cultural rhythms of Kingston – Jamaica is ready to welcome them back with warmth, music and a renewed spirit.

Mandarin Oriental will host Silent Night 2025 on December 10, marking the eleventh year of its signature global wellness event. Designed as a deliberate pause during the busiest time of the year, Silent Night invites guests across all Mandarin Oriental Spas to step into a space of quiet reflection, digital disconnection, and restorative calm.

The experience continues to build on the Group’s long-standing wellness philosophy, blending traditional Asian healing practices with modern approaches to sleep and sensory wellbeing.

At 5 p.m., participating spas worldwide will switch off background music and minimize communication, instantly transforming the environment into a peaceful sanctuary. Guests begin with a guided Opening Ceremony rooted in breathwork, aromatherapy, and grounding rituals. The ceremony is meant to ease overstimulated senses and create a shift into stillness – something increasingly difficult to find in daily life.

Silent Night also serves as the global debut of Sleepfulness, a new treatment designed to support healthier sleep patterns. Combining slow restorative movements, breath-focused techniques, and gentle pressure work, Sleepfulness targets stress, jet lag, and digital overload. It reflects Mandarin Oriental’s growing commitment to addressing modern sleep challenges while staying true to its heritage of mindful, holistic care.

The event further deepens the brand’s Tech-Life Integration efforts. Guests are encouraged to disconnect from their devices, observe intentional boundaries, and explore practices that make rest more accessible. Subtle sensory cues, mindful breathing, and quiet transitions help create a more balanced relationship with technology – an issue Mandarin Oriental recognized early on. As Andrea Lomas-Gong, Vice President of Spa & Wellness Operations, explained, digital fatigue has only intensified in recent years, making structured moments of stillness more essential than ever.

Throughout the evening, spas will offer optional silent activities such as tai chi, stretching, sound meditations, or silent walks. These practices help the body unwind, preparing guests for deeper relaxation and better sleep. Teams will also share Sleep Wellness guidance, offering simple habits on light exposure, evening routines, and rest-supportive choices especially relevant for frequent travelers.

Silent Night continues to reinforce Mandarin Oriental’s leadership in the luxury wellness space. It brings together intentional design, ancestral healing techniques, and expert-led rituals to create an experience that is both grounding and transformative. And with Sleepfulness now available year-round, guests can extend the benefits of Silent Night well beyond a single evening, carrying its sense of calm into their everyday lives and future travels.