Blog

IHG and Pro-invest Group reposition asset as voco Queenstown

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) today announced the conversion of Holiday Inn Express & Suites Queenstown to voco Queenstown, partnering with asset owner, developer and manager, Pro-invest Group, to reposition the highly regarded, centrally located hotel within IHG’s premium portfolio.

The 227-room property, operated by EVT Connect Hospitality, is superbly situated in the heart of Queenstown, just a short stroll from the lakefront and the town’s popular dining, retail and tourism precincts. This conversion represents a considered evolution of the asset, aligning its prime location, scale and performance profile with a premium brand proposition.

Michael Owen’s Football Camp Returns to Avani+ Fares Maldives for 2026

Michael Owen’s Football Camp is returning to Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort for a second year, running from 31 March to 3 April 2026 as part of the resort’s Easter holiday programme. Following a strong debut in 2025, the camp will once again see children and teens join the former England striker for hands-on coaching sessions on Fares Island in Baa Atoll.

Centara’s second hotel in Japan invites members to experience the best of Osaka

Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is set to expand its presence in Japan with the upcoming opening of Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka in Q2 2026, marking the group’s second hotel in Japan following the successful debut of Centara Grand Hotel Osaka in 2023. To celebrate the launch, Centara is introducing a limited-time, members-only opening offer designed for modern travellers who want to experience the city from its most vibrant neighbourhood.

Riyadh Air and Mastercard take off together to redefine the global travel experience

Riyadh Air and Mastercard today unveiled a bold strategic alliance that brings together payments, travel and technology to reshape how people and businesses experience global travel. With no legacy programs in place, Riyadh Air is in a unique position to jointly create an extensive financial and payment ecosystem that is unprecedented from day one. The collaboration introduces a powerful suite of innovations spanning consumer payments, premium airport experiences and next-generation B2B travel payments – positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of global travel evolution.

Abu Dhabi is launching a duty-free art program to attract and support international collectors

The Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism has announced the launch of a pioneering duty-free art program. This program aims to position the UAE as a globally trusted and forward-looking destination for the long-term housing, preservation, and display of high-profile artworks. The initiative establishes a framework that prioritizes governance, legal clarity, and institutional oversight as the foundations of participation.