World Travel News (2025)

04/07/2025

Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be “authentically Emirati in style, but fully Disney in experience”, Miral’s group CEO has said in an interview.

Disney’s plans for a theme park resort in Abu Dhabi were announced in May. The resort on Yas Island will be Disney’s most advanced and interactive to date.

Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be fully developed and built by Miral, Abu Dhabi’s creator of immersive destinations. It will also be operated by the company.

Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, group CEO of Miral, told Gulf News in an interview published this week: “This destination will be authentically Emirati in style, but fully Disney in experience.

“We want visitors to feel the culture of the UAE while enjoying the magic of Disney.”

Upon completion, the new resort will offer Disney entertainment and attractions, themed hotels, and unique dining and retail experiences.

“Game-changer for regional tourism”
The ambitious project is now in the design phase, with regular workshops already taking place between Disney and Miral‘s development teams, Al Zaabi said.

The park’s location “will be a game-changer for regional tourism”, he added.

“We’re filling a massive geographic gap between the Far East and Europe,” he said.

Yas Island is already home to world-class theme parks such as SeaWorld, Warner Bros. World and Ferrari World, as well as the Yas Waterworld water park.

On Disney’s decision to partner with Miral on the new park, Al Zaabi said: “They were impressed with what we’ve already built – Ferrari World, SeaWorld, Warner Bros. World.

“It showed that we can deliver at global standards. It’s a testament to the quality, safety, and strategic vision of Abu Dhabi.”

He added: “This is not just a win for Abu Dhabi. It’s a win for the UAE – and for the entire region.”

https://blooloop.com/theme-park/news/disneyland-abu-dhabi-emirati-style-new-details/

04/07/2025

Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, is set to mark a major milestone with the opening of dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives — the group’s first all-inclusive lifestyle resort and its second Dusit-branded property in the country, complementing the luxury Dusit Thani Maldives.

Set to soft open on 27 July 2025, dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives is located on a pristine natural island just seven minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Malé. The resort invites guests to experience a private escape defined by bold design, vibrant energy, and curated experiences, all thoughtfully crafted for modern travellers who value freedom, connection, and discovery in an inspiring setting.
Fringed by a spacious lagoon and thriving coral reefs, the resort offers exceptional access to vibrant marine life and stunning dive sites — making it an ideal base for underwater exploration and ocean-inspired adventure.

Blending beachfront charm with overwater serenity, the upscale resort features 127 spacious villas across seven distinct categories, ranging from 77 to 306 sq m. From tranquil beachfront retreats to expansive overwater sanctuaries, each villa is thoughtfully designed for modern comfort and style, with indoor-outdoor living spaces, private decks, and plunge pools in most categories.

dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives also introduces a fresh and modern take on the all-inclusive concept, with à la carte dining across five distinctive venues, unlimited premium beverages, daily entertainment, and generous resort credits for personalised indulgence.

Whether guests choose to unwind at Namm Spa, join beachfront yoga sessions, or sip island-inspired cocktails at the rooftop bar, they’ll find countless ways to connect, recharge, and play. From floating breakfasts and live DJ sets to snorkelling adventures and beach cinema nights, every experience is designed to spark joy and create lasting memories.

For corporate retreats and incentive travel, the resort also offers a full-service conference facility for up to 240 guests, making it a compelling choice within easy reach of the capital.

“dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives brings a bold new energy to the Maldives while staying true to Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality,” said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “Thoughtfully designed for the young and the young at heart, this vibrant, all-inclusive resort is more than just a place to stay; it’s a lifestyle destination offering exceptional marine experiences, curated adventures, and effortless escapes in a stunning setting. It’s a place where the spirit of discovery meets the comfort of modern, all-inclusive hospitality – perfect for travellers who want to do it all, or nothing at all.”

To celebrate its soft opening, dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives is offering an exclusive launch package featuring complimentary round-trip speedboat transfers for two, a complimentary upgrade to the next villa category, one signature floating breakfast per stay, 24-hour check-in and check-out, and more. Members of Dusit’s enhanced loyalty and lifestyle programme, Dusit Gold — which can be activated online for free at dusit.com/enrollment — also enjoy 15% off member rates and exclusive privileges throughout their stay.

Helmed by General Manager Yogeswaran Veerasamy — a seasoned hospitality professional with over two decades of experience in luxury resort operations across the Maldives and Southeast Asia — the resort is scheduled to celebrate its official grand opening in Q4 2025.

For more information, please visit: dusit.com/dusitd2-feydhoo

04/07/2025

DETAILS and its commitment to elevating the golfing landscape across Portugal has earned the management company seven nominations at the prestigious World Golf Awards, including the coveted Golf Business of the Year title. Several of its managed assets have also secured spots on other notable shortlists, highlighting the group’s broad industry impact.

Nominations include The World’s Best New Golf Course for the new Els Club Vilamoura, which is set to open this summer as the first private members’ club in the Algarve. The historic Old Course maintains its position among Portugal’s elite after receiving recognition for Portugal’s Best Golf Course while Vilamoura itself is up for the World’s Best Golf Venue.

The PGA Aroeira Lisboa has received acclaim for the World’s Best Eco-Friendly Golf Facility, and Palmares for Europe’s Best Golf Clubhouse. Hilton Vilamoura, at the heart of the courses recently rebranded as Vilamoura Golf, has also been nominated for Europe’s Best Golf Hotel.

Nuno Sepulveda, Co-CEO of DETAILS, said: “We are proud to see the hard work of every individual who has contributed to our projects recognised by the WGA.

“For us, this is just the beginning of our plan to reshape the narrative and position Portugal as one of the premium global golf destinations.”

DETAILS – owned by Arrow Global – has led the resurgence of the former Dom Pedro golf courses, Millenium, Laguna, Pinhal, and Old Course, under the eye-catching Vilamoura Golf canopy.

Since being managed by DETAILS, the prestigious Old Course, the second oldest in the Algarve, has received innovative clubhouse renovations ranging from the introduction of gastropub-style dining to food stations before and after rounds of golf, as well as featuring boutique high-end premium brands.

With practice areas enhanced thanks to recently installed trackman technology for the driving range, the course itself is set among glorious pine trees and meticulously kept terrain. Having received GEO certification, sustainable methods such as efficient reduction of water consumption through the use of warm season grass and Bermuda grass on tee boxes, ensure the prioritisation of the environment matches the course’s luxury feel.

The WGA’s recognition signifies the attention to detail which reinforces the Old Course’s status as one of Portugal’s most sought-after venues.

The Els Club Vilamoura, a separate entity from the other four courses, completes the Vilamoura Golf portfolio. Set to open next month to a select group of founder members, it will mark the first appearance of four-time major champion Ernie Els’ prestigious brand in Europe, with the South African also the mastermind behind the redesigned Victoria Course that was previously home to the Portugal Masters.

Overseen by DETAILS, the project promises to introduce a new standard of golf to the region, forming part of Vilamoura’s luxury offering spanning from golf courses to an equestrian centre and residential development. The club’s WGA nomination adds to the growing excitement and expectation surrounding the opening.

The acknowledgement of Vilamoura for the World’s Best Golf Venue category caps off the remarkable sweep of nominations for an area that’s also known for its high-class marina, and rich history, culture, and gastronomy. Located next to the pristine Algarve coast, the area is also 25 minutes away from Faro Airport, which has connections to over 90 airports worldwide.

Additionally, PGA Aroeira Lisboa, Portugal’s only PGA national venue, receiving a nomination for World’s Best Eco-Friendly Facility adds to the plethora of proactivity shown by DETAILS in repositioning the golf destination globally.

The historic PGA Aroeira no. 1 course, originally designed by Frank Pennink, underwent a full renovation in 2024, while PGA Aroeira no. 2, a Donald Steel course, has planned renovations.

Coinciding with on-course upgrades was the announcement of a partnership with world renowned Italian fashion house Missoni to launch Aroeira Collections by Missioni, to carry out an exclusive residential and tourist project set to be completed by 2027. At the heart of the project will be an Aroeira Collections Hotel located between the two courses, and there are further plans in place for a new clubhouse.

Up for Europe’s Best Clubhouse is Palmares; the venue’s fine dining restaurant, Al Sud, has retained its Michelin Star status that it achieved six months after opening in 2021, and represents the versatility of the clubhouse’s offering beyond golf. The component anchors a broader offering including golf, wellness, and luxury living.

Predicted to be completed in 2027, the resort will also boast Portugal’s first JW Marriott Hotel, including 172 rooms as well as 133 branded residences, offering an enhanced standard of living for visitors looking to enjoy a combination of world class golf and premium accommodation. The project will complement the 5-star boutique Palmares Beach House Hotel and the existing offering of RCR designed apartments.

DETAILS’ nomination as Golf Business of the Year encompasses the success of the management behind the vast number of different projects at the companies’ disposal, and the attention-to-detail included within every component.

With a 360-degree approach that combines asset management, operations, and marketing, the commitment is centred around the desire to deliver world-class guest experiences through sports and leisure assets that will help to redefine the future of Portugal’s luxury tourism and lifestyle sector.

https://golfbusinessnews.com/news/travel/details-inspires-host-of-world-golf-awards-nominations/

04/07/2025

Hilton have announced the signing of Waldorf Astoria Bali with Indonesian property developer PT Balibuana Perkasa, further expanding Hilton’s presence in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.

Set to open in late 2027, Waldorf Astoria Bali is poised to be the crown jewel of Nusa Dua, setting a new benchmark for luxury travel and hospitality in the prestigious oceanside locale that has hosted world leaders and discerning global travelers alike. The luxurious seaside retreat will take pride of place along Sawangan Beach, offering direct access to its picturesque shoreline.

Waldorf Astoria Bali will be the ownership’s second property with Hilton following the award-winning Hilton Bali Resort and will join Hilton’s existing portfolio of 16 operating and 12 pipeline hotels and resorts across Indonesia.

“This signing builds on the success of Hilton Bali Resort with PT Balibuana Perkasa and deepens our long-standing relationship. Their continued trust is a testament to the enduring value of Hilton’s brands and importantly, our owners’ confidence in Hilton’s ability to deliver best-in-class returns,” said Clarence Tan, senior vice president, Development, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “Indonesia’s rise as a world-class destination presents tremendous opportunities and underlines its strategic importance to Hilton in Asia Pacific. With the upcoming arrival of Waldorf Astoria, Bali will hold the distinction of being home to three of our luxury brands, including Conrad Hotels & Resorts and LXR Hotels & Resorts, in addition to our flagship Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Hilton Garden Inn.”

The signing of Waldorf Astoria Bali comes as Hilton recently surpassed 1,000 luxury and lifestyle hotels globally with another 500 in the development pipeline, demonstrating strong momentum and opportunity for its brands in this segment of the market.

The Epitome of Oceanfront Luxury
With breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Waldorf Astoria Bali will feature 71 expansive villas and 68 sophisticated guest suites, combining elegance and grandeur with a distinct sense of place and the effortless, signature service that the brand is known for.

In line with Waldorf Astoria’s legacy of culinary excellence and innovation, Waldorf Astoria Bali will feature multiple distinctive dining destinations. Among them is a chic beach club, and Peacock Alley, a refined cliffside restaurant and pool terrace that reimagines the brand’s iconic lounge and bar – a signature of the Waldorf Astoria brand that traces its roots to the original hotel in New York City.

One of the resort’s most anticipated culinary experiences is The Ledge by Dave Pynt, an award-winning concept that builds on the success of Pynt’s acclaimed restaurants – The Ledge at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi and Burnt Ends, his Michelin-starred restaurant in Singapore. Known for his mastery of open-flame cooking and custom-built grills, Pynt will bring a bold yet relaxed dining experience that redefines modern barbecue through a distinctly global lens. Waldorf Astoria Bali will also boast a suite of wellness experiences, including a tranquil spa inspired by traditional Balinese wellness rituals, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and swimming pools that overlook the Indian Ocean. Young travelers can also look forward to indulging in the resort’s family-friendly activities, along with a dedicated kids’ club.

Offering 748 square meters of event space, including a 465 square meter ballroom and a stunning chapel as an unparalleled venue for weddings, Waldorf Astoria Bali will set the stage for iconic events and unforgettable celebrations. Conveniently located just 14.5 kilometers from Ngurah Rai International Airport, the resort is minutes away from the renowned cliff fronts of Ungasan and Uluwatu and will also offer easy access to hidden gems like Geger Beach.

“Bali’s natural beauty and rich cultural depth make it a fitting home for Waldorf Astoria. With Conrad Bali, Hilton Bali Resort, Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and Hilton Garden Inn Ngurah Rai Airport already representing a strong presence on the island, this signing reflects Hilton’s continued commitment to expanding thoughtfully across South East Asia’s most sought-after destinations,” said Alexandra Murray, vice president and regional head, South East Asia, Hilton. “With the addition of Waldorf Astoria Bali, we are not only elevating our luxury footprint in Indonesia, but we are also reinforcing our promise to deliver unforgettable world-class experiences to travelers seeking the very best in hospitality.”

Gandi Rudiarto, director, PT Balibuana Perkasa, said: “Over the years, we have worked closely with Hilton as our trusted partner to create exceptional experiences for guests, and we are pleased to take that partnership to the next level by bringing the iconic Waldorf Astoria brand to Bali. The island paradise has been in the global spotlight for hosting world events like the G20 Summit, and we are confident that Waldorf Astoria Bali will introduce new heights of unforgettable luxury that befits leaders and luminaries – true to the brand’s illustrious legacy of hosting presidents and royals.”

The signing of Waldorf Astoria Bali brings Hilton another step forward on its trajectory to grow its luxury presence to 150 hotels in the Asia Pacific region in the coming years. Having recently opened its first Waldorf Astoria hotel in Japan – Waldorf Astoria Osaka – Hilton will also open Waldorf Astoria properties in Kuala Lumpur, Sydney, Shanghai, Tokyo, Xi’an and Hanoi over the next two years. Conrad Hotels & Resorts is expanding with upcoming properties in prime travel destinations across China, including Xi’an, Chengdu, and Nanjing, as well as in Nagoya, Japan. LXR Hotels & Resorts hotels are set to debut in Bengaluru, Hiroshima and Xi’an, following the debut of the brand in Kyoto and Bali with ROKU KYOTO and Umana Bali respectively. NoMad will make its Asia Pacific debut in Singapore in 2027.

Waldorf Astoria hotels participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app

04/07/2025

Hilton has announced the signing of a management agreement with M&L Group for The Hotel Maria in Helsinki, which will be re-branded as Waldorf Astoria Helsinki. This marks the first hotel to operate under the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand in Finland, introducing the brand’s legendary service and award-winning hospitality to the Nordics.
Located in the historic Kruununhaka district in a building designed in 1885 by architect Lagerspetz, the 116-room property will be rebranded later this year as Waldorf Astoria Helsinki. This will follow a short transitional period during which the hotel will remain operational.

The luxury hotel will feature signature dining, a bar, fitness studio and a Nordic wellness spa with a traditional Finnish sauna, blending timeless elegance, unforgettable experiences and culinary mastery for guests throughout their stay.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, “We’re delighted to be collaborating with M&L Group to introduce the Waldorf Astoria brand to Finland. As we near 300 luxury hotels in EMEA, it’s fantastic to have signed our first in the Nordics. The Finnish capital has seen growing travel demand in recent years, and we look forward to serving an even wider range of traveller needs as we open our fourth property in the city.”

Jocelyn K*m, executive director of M&L Group, said, “The rise in demand for high-end leisure and business travel in Finland presents a compelling opportunity for us. For more than a decade, our trusted partnership with Hilton has been built on shared values and a consistent commitment to excellence. Waldorf Astoria Helsinki marks our eighth hotel partnership, and we’re excited to introduce this iconic luxury brand to the city and contribute to its growing appeal as a destination for discerning global travellers.”

Spanning five continents, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is Hilton’s luxury brand of iconic hotels in the most sought-out destinations around the world. Guests can expect an effortless experience throughout their stay, allowing them to focus on connecting with friends, family and the destination they are visiting, creating memories to last a lifetime. Waldorf Astoria Helsinki joins the brand’s global portfolio of 67 hotels trading and pipeline, including the recently opened Waldorf Astoria Osaka and Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique followed by the upcoming openings of the legendary Waldorf Astoria New York and Waldorf Astoria Rabat Salé. Looking further ahead into 2026 and beyond, Waldorf Astoria will see the highly anticipated and first market entry in gateway cities from London, Sydney, Hanoi, Jakarta, Tanger, Kuala Lumpur and Jaipur.

04/07/2025

Pioneers of ultra-luxury experiential travel, Ultimate Driving Tours, has officially rebranded as HunterMoss, marking a new chapter in the company’s 18-year evolution. The powerful new rebrand aligns with a hugely significant expansion as it prepares to launch into its most dynamic market yet: the United States.

Founded in 2008, HunterMoss designs illuminating and emotionally rich travel experiences for discerning guests seeking something more. Meticulously curated group itineraries and bespoke self-guided drive tours invite guests to reconnect and collect stories worth sharing – whether behind the wheel of a world-class supercar or immersed in the culture, cuisine and landscapes in some of the world’s most beautiful regions.

The new name reflects the inspirational journey of Co-Founders Julie Hunter and Anthony Moss, who have continuously evolved the brand since its inception, creating a concept that transcends conventional travel. Over the years, Hunter and Moss have curated and personally hosted hundreds of events for more than 1,500 guests worldwide.

“We’re so excited to step into this new chapter as HunterMoss – a name that reflects our evolution”, says Julie Hunter, Co-Founder of HunterMoss. “What began as small group driving tours has grown into something far more personal: tailor-made journeys that embody a lifestyle of exclusivity, discovery and refinement.”

Co-Founder, Anthony Moss adds “The cars are no longer the star, but the signature – connecting exceptional destinations and experiences with effortless ease. At its heart, HunterMoss is about sharing the finer things in life.”

NEW DESTINATIONS

From Summer 2025, HunterMoss will be debuting a series of luxury supercar weekend vacations and corporate incentives through America’s most iconic landscapes – from the East Coast to the West.

Guided by a pre-emptive approach to hospitality, the journeys will deliver enriching travel experiences for discerning guests, framed by elite stays, memorable gastronomic experiences and curated local activities.

At the helm of the USA experiences is Paul Hanzel, appointed General Manager of North America. Driven by a philosophy that champions meticulous attention to detail, meaningful gestures, and seamless service, Paul combines his creative vision with deep-rooted knowledge and personal connection to the American landscape.

04/07/2025

Emirates’ highly anticipated Airbus A350 is now a regular sight at Muscat International Airport, with the start of regular daily services between Dubai and Muscat.

The deployment of the next-generation aircraft, originally slated for 1 July, was brought forward by a week. The aircraft operates flight EK 866, which departs Dubai at 2:15 am and arrives in Muscat at 3:30 am. The return leg, EK 867 departs Muscat at 4:40 am and lands in Dubai at 5:55 am, perfectly timed to help customers connect for their flights to destinations in Europe, Americas, Africa and Asia. *

The three-class aircraft offers 312 seats with 32 lie-flat seats in Business Class arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, 21 Premium Economy seats in a comfortable 2-3-2 setup, and 259 spacious Economy Class seats in a 3-3-3 layout. Designed to offer customers an enhanced travel experience, all cabins feature higher ceilings and wider aisles. Customers across all classes enjoy the airline’s award-winning and latest in-flight entertainment system, offering a cinematic viewing experience, upgraded cabin lighting, faster connectivity with high-speed Wi-Fi, and improved seat ergonomics for greater comfort on short and medium-haul journeys.

The introduction of the Airbus A350 to Muscat highlights Emirates’ ongoing commitment to Oman. Muscat is among the first few cities in the region to receive Emirates’ next-generation A350, joining a growing network that includes destinations like Kuwait, Bahrain, Dammam and Amman as well as other points like Edinburgh, Mumbai, Tunis, Colombo and Ahmedabad. The airline has so far welcomed seven A350s to its fleet and is expected to serve 17 destinations across its global network by the end of this year.

To meet the current summer travel demand, Emirates has also layered on two additional weekly flights between Dubai and Muscat, operating flights on Thursdays and Saturdays. Flight EK 862 departs Dubai at 7:55 am and reaches Muscat at 9:05 am, while the return flight EK 863 takes off from Muscat at 11:25 am and lands in Dubai at 12:30 pm.

For more information or to book flights, customers can visit emirates.com. Customers can also book tickets through the Emirates App, Emirates Retail outlets, Emirates contact centres, or via travel agents.

04/07/2025

Family Summer Fun in Fort Myers
A dazzling gem of Florida’s Gulf coast, Fort Myers is bursting with energy, flavour, and creativity this summer. From the country’s very best shelling on its white sand beaches, a wealth of outdoor activities and no shortage of delicious fresh seafood, Fort Myers promises an unforgettable sunshine escape. With an average of 271 days of sunshine a year, this easy-going destination is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

WHAT TO DO

Take to the water

The Great Calusa Blueway offers nearly 200 miles of marked canoe and kayaking trails, meandering through coastal waters and inland tributaries, or if you don’t fancy driving, jump aboard one of award-winning guide Captain Brian’s boat trips. A certified naturalist, he’ll show you the best of Fort Myers’ islands aboard his 24ft boat for an afternoon of bird spotting and island hopping.

Get back to nature in one of its six state parks

For nature lovers looking for their next relaxed outdoor adventure, Fort Myers is home to six of Florida’s finest state parks offering activities from nature walks and fishing trips, to some of the state’s best birdwatching, not to mention the chance to spot its residents manatees and dolphins. Enjoy the hiking trails of Estero Bay Preserve State Park and you might spot a bald eagle, or head to Cayo Costa State Park, accessible only by boat, home to nine miles of pristine shoreline perfect for swimming, snorkelling and birdwatching.

Discover the USA’s best shelling beaches on Sanibel Island

While away an afternoon on the beaches of Sanibel, the USA’s seashell capital thanks to the warm gulf waters depositing millions of shells on its beaches every day. Pay a visit to the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium, home to nearly 600,000 shells and over 60 species of marine life, including their resident Giant Pacific Octopus.

WHAT TO EAT

It’s impossible to go to Fort Myers and not indulge in what is arguably the finest seafood in Florida! From fresh gulf shrimp and the famous hot crab and cheese dip at waterfront dining spot Pinchers Crab Shack, to dockside dining at Oxbow Bar & Grill downtown with its impressive seafood tower and the daily fresh fish market at Prawnbroker with catches like Florida grouper, it’s a seafood lover’s dream.

WHERE TO STAY

With a host of accommodation options to suit any size of family, Fort Myers has it all. Sundial Beach Resort & Spa offers family accommodation on Sanibel’s best shelling beach, with on-site activities like tennis and pickleball, several pools and four dining spots. For a private space for the family, Florida First Class Villas has a portfolio of private sun-soaked villas with their own pools, while Pink Shell Beach Resort sits at the top of the seven mile stretch of Fort Myers Beach with a daily programme of activities from arts and crafts to nature walks and dolphin adventure tours.

HOW TO GET THERE

Fly direct to Tampa from London Heathrow or Gatwick with Virgin Atlantic, BA, Air France, or KLM, followed by a two-hour drive to Fort Myers (return flights start at £692, depending on airline and season). Car hire starts at £36 per day or opt for pre-booked transfers. Tour operators such as Trailfinders, American Sky, and Ocean Holidays offer package deals to simplify planning.

Fort Myers offers a rich blend of art, music, food, and family fun this summer, making it the perfect destination for travellers of all interests.

For more information on these events and to start planning your trip, visit

www.VisitFortMyers.com

04/07/2025

Arival, the global authority on the in-destination experiences sector, today announced a landmark three-in-one event taking place 29 September – 3 October 2025 at the Ga***rd National Resort & Convention Center in Washington, DC. The program includes the invite-only Future of Experiences Executive Summit (29 Sept), the AI Forum for Destination Experiences (29–30 Sept), and the flagship Arival 360 conference (30 Sept–3 Oct).

Designed for creators and sellers of tours, activities, attractions, and experiences, this gathering will bring together global operators, distributors, DMOs, and technology leaders to confront the most urgent challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

The Future of Experiences Executive Summit is a private, closed-door forum for senior leaders. Against a backdrop of geopolitical upheaval, climate crisis, overtourism, and rapid AI disruption, this summit is a call to action; a high-impact day of strategic dialogue to define the future of destination experiences.

The AI Forum for Destination Experiences is the industry’s first dedicated event focused on the real-world application of generative AI in tours, activities, and attractions. With hands-on demos, tactical sessions, and peer-led discussions, the forum is designed for decision-makers ready to move beyond the AI hype and into implementation.

The week culminates in Arival 360, the premier global conference for the experiences sector. With keynotes, workshops, innovation showcases, a dedicated track for multi-day tour operators, and networking with over 500 companies, Arival 360 delivers actionable insights on consumer trends, distribution, marketing, and technology.

“The experiences sector is at a crossroads,” said Douglas Quinby, CEO and Co-founder of Arival. “AI, climate, and global instability are reshaping how we live, travel, and connect. This event is not just a conference, it’s a convening of the people who will define what comes next. We’re bringing together the doers, the thinkers and the builders to chart a bold path forward.”

Arival 360 will feature an exceptional lineup of speakers from across the global experiences ecosystem. Confirmed names include Viator President, Pepijn Rijvers, Joe Pine, co-author of The Experience Economy Janette Roush, Chief AI Officer at Brand USA, Leigh Barnes, President of Americas, Intrepid and Travis Pittman, Co-Founder & CEO, TourRadar, alongside leaders from many other established names and start-ups alike. These industry leaders will share insights on innovation, distribution, and the evolving traveler journey.

With more speakers to be announced, the program promises a dynamic mix of visionaries, disruptors, and hands-on practitioners.
For more information and registration details, visit the Arival 360| Washington DC event page.

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