From ultra-luxury yacht debuts to record-breaking megaships, 2026 is shaping up to be a defining year for the cruise industry’s next generation of vessels.
Prism, the parent company of OYO Hotels, has filed confidential IPO papers in India, aiming for a valuation of up to $8 billion after years of delayed listing plans.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar are planning a landmark high-speed rail connection between Riyadh and Doha, aiming to boost tourism, strengthen regional ties, and cut travel emissions.
LEGOLAND Deutschland will debut the world’s first LEGO Harry Potter Land, bringing iconic wizarding locations, themed rides, and immersive experiences to Europe.
Rome will begin charging tourists a small fee to access the Trevi Fountain’s inner viewing area in 2026, aiming to reduce crowding and protect one of the city’s most visited landmarks.
Romania is moving forward with plans for Dracula Land, a €1 billion theme park near Bucharest that blends folklore, entertainment, and tourism on an unprecedented scale.
Hyatt strengthens its presence in Vietnam with the opening of Hyatt Regency Nha Trang, a 434-room beachfront hotel inspired by local fishing heritage and coastal living.
Hyatt debuts Andaz One Bangkok within the ambitious One Bangkok district, blending design-led hospitality, park views, and a distinctly urban lifestyle concept.
Marriott International will open its first EDITION-branded hotel in Africa in 2026, introducing the luxury lifestyle concept to Cape Town’s iconic V&A Waterfront.
Prism, the parent company of OYO Hotels, has secured shareholder approval to raise $742 million through a fresh equity issue, reviving long-delayed IPO plans.
Brazil welcomed a record nine million international visitors in 2025, surpassing national targets and previous highs as tourism spending and arrivals surged across key regions.
Emirates has unveiled a festive holiday video reimagining its iconic Airbus A380 as Santa’s sleigh, blending CGI artistry, brand storytelling, and seasonal cheer in a campaign that quickly captured global attention.
Italy’s competition authority has fined Ryanair €255 million, accusing the airline of abusing its dominant position by restricting how travel agencies sell and bundle its flights.
Thailand has become the most booked international destination for Indian travelers during the year-end holiday season, surpassing the UAE as short-haul travel demand continues to rise.
Southwest Airlines is expanding its Hawaii network with new nonstop flights between Hilo and Las Vegas, strengthening connections between the Big Island and the U.S. mainland starting in August 2026.