iQIYI sets out plans for Wuhan theme park within urban renewal project

April 15, 2026

A new theme park linked to iQIYI is planned for Wuhan, Hubei province, within the Hanyangzao Cultural and Creative Industry Park as part of a wider urban renewal effort. The development is intended to serve as a cultural and tourism site combining the company’s intellectual property with technology-based immersive experiences.

The plan follows the opening of iQIYI Land Yangzhou on February 8, 2026, where visitor ratings have exceeded 4.9 out of 5 across Dianping, Meituan and Ctrip. The site has hosted activities such as costume displays from productions including “Mysterious Lotus Casebook” and “Feud”, alongside events tied to upcoming releases.

Representatives at the signing ceremony for the iQIYI theme park project in Wuhan, Hubei province

The Wuhan park is scheduled to open in 2027 and will be the company’s fourth theme park and its first in central China. The project is being developed with Wuhan Urban Construction Group. It will include immersive theatres, stage performances, film and television set recreations, character interactions and social games, alongside elements linked to Wuhan’s local heritage.

The development reflects changes in China’s cultural tourism sector, where content and audience engagement are taking a larger role alongside traditional attractions.

Additional locations in Beijing and Kaifeng are under construction and are expected to open later in 2026, forming part of a wider network of sites based on the company’s content.

“IP and technology are the accelerators of this transition,” said Gong Yu, founder and CEO of iQIYI. “Powered by technology, we will use IP as our core thread, delivering emotional value through dramas, animation, and variety shows online, and through theme parks and IP-based consumer products offline.”

Belmo Group acquires Royal Albert Hotel in Brisbane CBD

By TTG Asia

April 15, 2026

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Belmo Group has secured management rights for the Royal Albert Hotel in Brisbane’s CBD, adding a heritage-listed property to its portfolio as it continues to expand its operations in Queensland.

Located on Albert Street, the hotel comprises 73 rooms and apartments. First opened in 1913, the property is known for its historic features, larger room layouts and established performance in the local market.

The heritage-listed Royal Albert Hotel in Brisbane joins Belmo Group portfolio

The acquisition forms part of the group’s strategy to build a portfolio of assets in key urban markets. Brisbane’s ongoing development, including infrastructure projects and transport links, is expected to support both corporate and leisure demand in the coming years.

The property is positioned near projects such as Queen’s Wharf and the Albert Street Cross River Rail station. These developments are part of wider changes across the city ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Belmo Group plans to apply its operating model at the hotel, focusing on areas such as revenue management, distribution and direct bookings, supported by its internal teams across sales, marketing and guest services.

The acquisition builds on the group’s growth over the past 15 years, expanding from its base in Brisbane to a broader portfolio that includes hotels, accommodation and residential management.

David Assef, CEO of Belmo Group, said the hotel is positioned to benefit from Brisbane’s infrastructure pipeline and improving connectivity, which are expected to support sustained demand across corporate and leisure segments. He added that the group will apply its operating model to strengthen performance, with a focus on revenue management, distribution and direct bookings.

He shared: “The Royal Albert is an iconic Brisbane property with a rich history and a strong operating platform… (and offers) guests an authentic and refined base from which to experience everything the river city has to offer.”

Explora Journeys deploys Explora II in Mediterranean for winter 2026-2027

By TTG Asia

April 15, 2026

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Explora II will sail in the Mediterranean for the Winter 2026-2027 season, introducing a Journeys Collection titled A Mediterranean Winter. The programme runs from November 2026 to March 2027 and focuses on itineraries across Southern Europe and North Africa.

The season includes 46 destinations in 10 countries, including Spain, Morocco, Portugal, France, Italy, Malta, Greece and Gibraltar. Five new ports are added: Ceuta, Algiers, San Sebastián de La Gomera, Fuerteventura and Palamós. The call to Algiers marks the brand’s first visit to Algeria.

Explora II will operate Mediterranean itineraries from November 2026 to March 2027, with new ports, overnight stays and extended time in destination

Several itineraries feature extended and overnight stays in destinations such as Casablanca, Lisbon, Madeira and Málaga, as well as late departures from ports including Cannes, Siracusa and Gibraltar. These schedules allow more time for onshore visits and local experiences.

Planned activities include a private concert in St Michael’s Cave in Gibraltar, an evening opening of the Alhambra in Málaga, a cultural event in Funchal and an overnight programme from Casablanca to Marrakech.

Sample itineraries include a sailing from Barcelona to Lisbon from December 9 to December 21, 2026, a New Year itinerary from Barcelona to Rome from December 28, 2026 to January 4, 2027, and a voyage from Rome to Barcelona from January 14 to January 24, 2027.

Explora Journeys will also operate Explora I in the Caribbean, Central and South America during the same period.

Bookings are available through travel advisors and online.

For more information, visit Explora Journeys.

Santiburi Koh Samui curates five-night stay experience

By TTG Asia

April 15, 2026

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Santiburi Koh Samui has introduced a five-night stay programme at its resort on the north shore of Koh Samui. The offer focuses on longer stays, with activities and dining designed around local surroundings and slower-paced travel.

The experience includes guided walks along the resort’s Nature Trail, where guests learn about local plants, wildlife and ecosystems. Dining follows a “100 miles” approach at Sala Thai, with ingredients sourced from nearby producers.

Guests enjoy access to spa treatments, local dining and guided nature activities at Santiburi

Accommodation options include Deluxe Beachfront Villas and Grand Reserve Pool Villas. Each stay includes a 60-minute spa treatment, one minibar refill, private Vitality Class sessions and access to a fitness centre. A Thai dinner for two is also included.

Additional wellness options are available at Santiburi Spa, with treatments focused on rest and recovery. These include sleep therapies and other spa programmes using locally sourced products.

The resort is located on Mae Nam Beach, known for consistent swimming conditions. Facilities and activities are structured to support both individual travellers and longer stays.

The package is available for booking for stays until September 30, 2026. Rates start from 10,450 baht (US$290) per night for two.

For more information, visit Santiburi Koh Samui.

ATM reassures exhibitors after 2026 rescheduling

By Rohit Kaul

April 14, 2026

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The organisers of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), RX, have moved swiftly to reassure global stakeholders and exhibitors following the rescheduling of its 2026 edition. The priority has been on actively monitoring the situation and remaining in close and ongoing dialogue with key stakeholders, including Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

“We fully recognise that the rescheduling may pose challenges for our valued exhibitors and partners, necessitating careful adjustments to existing plans. Our team maintains ongoing communication with all exhibitors to ensure they are supported, informed and confident about the steps ahead. Above all, our aim is to make sure every participant feels supported and well-positioned to make the most of ATM 2026,” Danielle Curtis, exhibition director ME at ATM, told TTG Asia.

Curtis: our aim is to make sure every participant feels supported and well-positioned to make the most of ATM 2026

The decision to reschedule the event was made in consultation with key stakeholders, with organisers weighing multiple factors including venue availability and the need to minimise disruption. Curtis stressed that ensuring business continuity and long-term value for exhibitors and buyers remained central to the decision-making process.

“As always, our priority is to offer a trusted, high-impact platform where the global travel community can unite to connect and collaborate. To support this objective, we are actively reviewing and refining our marketing campaign to ensure alignment with Dubai’s broader tourism strategy and to further strengthen our reach across all key source markets to drive high-quality attendance,” said Curtis.

Earlier, RX had confirmed that the 2026 edition of ATM, originally scheduled to take place from May 4-7, 2026, at Dubai World Trade Centre, will now take place from August 17-20, 2026, with the venue remaining unchanged.

ATM 2026 will continue to be held under the theme Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology. However, there will be more focus on resilience and recovery to help address the challenges being faced by the industry in this region.

“In terms of contingency planning, we are monitoring the situation closely and maintaining regular communication with stakeholders, including venue partners and local authorities, to ensure we can adapt swiftly if necessary,” concluded Curtis.

Oceania Cruises to refurbish Oceania Marina in October 2026

By TTG Asia

April 14, 2026

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Oceania Cruises is preparing a fleet-wide upgrade programme, beginning with Oceania Marina, which will enter dry dock in October 2026 for a full interior and facilities overhaul.

The 1,250-passenger vessel will see all staterooms redesigned, alongside updates to public areas including lounges, bars and dining spaces. The work forms part of the company’s OceaniaNEXT programme, which covers design, cuisine, service and onboard experiences across the fleet.

Oceania Marina will undergo a full refurbishment, including redesigned staterooms and updated public areas; photo by Oceania Cruises

Stateroom upgrades will include new layouts, furnishings and bathrooms fitted with marble finishes and rainforest showers. Suites, including Penthouse, Oceania, Vista and Owner’s Suites, will also be updated to align with recent improvements across the fleet.

Public areas will be refurbished with new furniture, carpeting and lighting. The Grand Lounge will be expanded to include the Founders Bar, a new lounge concept serving cocktails. A new Chef’s Studio will replace the Artist Loft, offering cooking demonstrations and food and wine sessions.

Dining venues including Polo Grill, Red Ginger, Toscana and Jacques will undergo design updates and galley improvements. The ship’s coffee venue, Baristas, will be extended with a bakery offering pastries and baked items.

Outdoor areas will also be updated, with new loungers and day beds added to the pool deck.

The refurbishment is intended to align the design of Oceania Marina with newer ships in the fleet, while maintaining existing service standards. The company said the programme aims to ensure consistency across vessels as it introduces new ships.

“At Oceania Cruises, raising the bar is not an initiative – it is our mindset. We are constantly refining the guest experience, from elevating our culinary offerings to creating more intimate, immersive ways to explore the world’s most iconic destinations. With OceaniaNEXT, we are reaffirming our commitment to modern luxury by ensuring every ship in our fleet reflects the refined style, attention to detail and thoughtful innovation that define our brand. This is how we continue to bring to life The Joy of Traveling Well,” said Jason Montague, chief luxury officer of Oceania Cruises.

Mondrian lounge to open at Gold Coast aviation terminal

By TTG Asia

April 14, 2026

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Platinum Business Aviation Centre has partnered with Mondrian Gold Coast to develop a new lounge at its private aviation terminal at Gold Coast Airport.

The Mondrian Lounge at Platinum will be located within the facility used by private aviation passengers and crew. The project brings together aviation services and hotel-style hospitality within a single space, marking a collaboration between a luxury hotel brand and a fixed base operator in Australia and New Zealand.

The Mondrian Lounge at Platinum will offer a dedicated space for private aviation passengers and crew at Gold Coast Airport

The lounge is designed in collaboration with Mondrian Gold Coast and will provide a dedicated area for passengers and crew before departure or after arrival. The space is intended to offer a quieter environment within the terminal, alongside hospitality services aligned with hotel standards.

The partnership reflects growth in demand for private aviation services on the Gold Coast and forms part of broader efforts to position the location as an international destination. The facility is operated by Platinum Business Aviation Centre, which provides ground handling and terminal services for private aircraft.

The lounge will serve a range of users including aircraft owners, charter passengers and international visitors travelling through the Gold Coast.

Joe Stenning, general manager of Platinum Business Aviation Centre, commented: “The introduction of the Mondrian Lounge at Platinum represents a new era for the private aviation experience in Australia. This is the first time in Australia or New Zealand that an FBO and a luxury lifestyle hotel brand have collaborated in this way, and we’re proud to lead that innovation from the Gold Coast.”

“Mondrian is synonymous with culture, design and elevated lifestyle experiences. Partnering with Platinum allows us to extend that philosophy directly into the private aviation journey,” added Letitia Vitale, co-managing partner of Vitale Property Group and co-owner of Mondrian Gold Coast.

IHG inks agreement for Holiday Inn hotel in Goa

By TTG Asia

April 14, 2026

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IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a management agreement with NCPL to develop Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba, a 100-room hotel in Panaji, Goa. The property is scheduled to open in the 1Q2030 and adds to the group’s presence in India’s leisure markets.

The hotel will be located in Kadamba, with access to sites including the Fontainhas Latin Quarter, the Mandovi River promenade and Dona Paula. It is also near the UNESCO-listed Churches and Convents of Goa. The location is intended to serve both leisure and business visitors.

The 100-room Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba is scheduled to open in 2030

Goa remains a major tourism market in India, supported by transport links including two airports and a steady flow of domestic and international visitors. Demand is driven by beaches, heritage areas and related activities.

The property will include five F&B outlets, comprising an all-day dining venue, a speciality restaurant, bar, lobby lounge and pool bar. Facilities will also include three meeting and event spaces, including a ballroom, as well as a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa and parking.

“The signing of Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba aligns with our strategy to expand in high-potential leisure markets across the country, and we are pleased to partner with NCPL to bring this hotel to life. With its prime location in Panaji and strong brand proposition, the hotel is well-positioned to cater to a diverse mix of leisure and business travellers,” said Sudeep Jain, managing director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts.

“Panaji’s distinctive positioning as both a cultural and administrative hub makes it an attractive destination for hospitality development… we are confident that the hotel will deliver high-quality experiences and become a preferred choice for travellers visiting Goa,” added Miket Kankia, director, NCPL.

IHG currently operates 51 hotels across six brands in India, including Six Senses, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza, voco Hotels, Holiday Inn Resort and Holiday Inn Express. A further 89 hotels are planned to open over the next three to five years.

New tank-to-tap brewery to open at Resorts World Sentosa

By TTG Asia

April 14, 2026

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Burnt Ends Hospitality Group will launch People People Brewing Co. at Resorts World Sentosa, an 836m² venue combining a working brewery, kitchen and social space. The concept centres on brewing beer on-site and serving it fresh from tank to tap alongside a food programme designed for everyday dining and group occasions.

The venue is set to launch on April 15, 2026.

Guests enjoy beer served fresh from tank to tap alongside wood-fired dishes, including rotisserie roast chicken from the open-fire kitchen

The brewing programme is overseen by Nick Calder-Scholes, who has worked across the UK, Europe and Asia-Pacific. He manages production from recipe development to service. Beer is brewed on-site using custom equipment and dispensed from five 1,500-litre tanks.

The range includes lagers, India Pale Ales, sour beers and stouts, organised into four groups: Core, Seasonal, Workshop Series and Founder’s Reserve. Core beers include lager, pale ale and IPA, while other releases vary by collaboration and batch size.

Food is built around wood-fired cooking, with dishes designed to match the beers. The kitchen uses a Classico oven and an open-fire hearth with rotisserie. The menu includes sourdough pizza, rotisserie chicken, burgers and bar snacks, with options for sharing.

People People Brewing Co. is located at WEAVE within Resorts World Sentosa and can be accessed without the Sentosa island entry fee. The space allows movement between indoor and outdoor areas, with seating for 180 and capacity for up to 400 standing.

Programming includes Sunday Socials, Saturday Long Lunch, Woodfire Wednesdays and Thirsty Thursdays, which feature brewery tours and tastings.

A pre-opening membership programme is available across three tiers, offering access to events, beer releases and tastings.

For more information, visit People People Brewing Co..

Legoland Malaysia brings back underwater dining experience

By TTG Asia

April 14, 2026

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Legoland Malaysia Resort has reintroduced its Sea Life Underwater Dining Experience as part of its premium offering, suited for couples and small groups. The experience takes place within Sea Life Malaysia, where guests dine alongside aquarium displays with views of marine life.

The programme includes a revised four-course menu, including an appetiser; a roasted asparagus soup; main course choices such as chicken ballotine, lamb loin or veal Wellington with potato purée; and a coconut panna cotta with citrus gel and chocolate soil for dessert.

Guests can enjoy views of marine life from surrounding aquarium exhibits while dining within Sea Life Malaysia; photo by Legoland Malaysia Resort

Seating is organised into three tiers based on viewing position. Tier 1 includes the Ocean Tunnel and Ocean View. Tier 2 covers the Ocean Cave and panoramic viewing area. Tier 3 includes Crab Cove and Eel Encounter.

The experience runs twice monthly on Saturdays and is open for booking.

For more information, visit Legoland Malaysia Resort.

iQIYI sets out plans for Wuhan theme park within urban renewal project

Belmo Group acquires Royal Albert Hotel in Brisbane CBD

Explora Journeys deploys Explora II in Mediterranean for winter 2026-2027

Santiburi Koh Samui curates five-night stay experience

ATM reassures exhibitors after 2026 rescheduling

Oceania Cruises to refurbish Oceania Marina in October 2026

Mondrian lounge to open at Gold Coast aviation terminal

IHG inks agreement for Holiday Inn hotel in Goa

New tank-to-tap brewery to open at Resorts World Sentosa

Legoland Malaysia brings back underwater dining experience

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