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Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, today announced the appointment of Leire Leoz as Chief Franchise Officer for its Premium, Midscale, and Economy division, effective February 2nd. This strategic appointment underscores Accor’s commitment to strengthening its franchise operations across its extensive network.

As experiential consumption continues to rise, diners are now looking for more than taste alone. They also value atmosphere, service style, and a stronger connection with local culture. Recently, the 2026 Black Pearl Restaurant Guide (Black Pearl) was officially released. Five restaurants under IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) were listed, all located in mainland China, excluding Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. Covering Chinese cuisine, steakhouse, and Mediterranean fare, these recognitions reflect the Group’s consistent, high-quality performance in premium dining and its strategic commitment to building a diversified culinary portfolio.

Japan Airlines, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, O-Well Corporation, and ZIPAIR Tokyo Inc. have applied the riblet-shaped coating for the first time to the side of the fuselage of Boeing 787-8 aircraft (JA851J).The aircraft has started operation on international routes from 27 January 2026.

Qatar Airways returns to the Web Summit Qatar as the Official Lifestyle and Travel Partner for the third consecutive year to unveil a suite of intuitive, user-led airline products designed to enhance and personalise passenger experience and advance industry innovation.

Lufthansa invests in the most extensive fleet renewal in its history and simultaneously modernizes the cabin interiors of its largest aircraft. Among other upgrades, the Boeing 747-8 and Airbus A350-900 will receive new seats across all classes. For the launch of this conversion program, referred to as “Retrofit” in aviation, the popular Airbus A380-800 will be equipped with new Business Class seats starting in February at Elbe Flugzeugwerke in Dresden. Further retrofits of the existing fleet will follow in close succession.

Villa Vie Residences today announced a strategic marketing alliance with Avora Residences, a newly launched luxury residential cruise brand. Avora is designed to complement Villa Vie’s highly successful contemporary residential offering as its luxury counterpart, expanding consumer choice within the rapidly growing residential-at-sea category.

Hilton today announced the opening of two new properties in Makkah, nearly doubling its presence in the Holy City and expanding its hospitality offerings for the millions of pilgrims and travelers who visit each year. The openings include DoubleTree by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah, bringing the brand’s signature warm welcome to the Al Aziziyah district, and Wirgan Al Noor, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, marking both the brand’s debut in Makkah and the largest Tapestry Collection by Hilton hotel worldwide. Both properties are owned by Wirgan Hospitality.

The Caribbean continues to define the pinnacle of romantic travel, with Marriott International leading the way as its most prestigious resorts debut artfully curated experiences for discerning couples. From transformative wellness sanctuaries to bespoke honeymoon offerings and intimate oceanfront moments, these properties are setting a new standard for sophisticated romance in one of the world’s most alluring destinations.

Hilton announced today that Hampton by Hilton has been ranked the No. 1 hotel franchise on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® for the 17th consecutive year, extending the brand’s record-setting run at the top of the Lodging category. Hampton by Hilton also ranked as the No. 8 brand overall on Franchise 500® – moving up one spot from No. 9 in 2025 – and marking the 11th year in the top ten.

Marriott Bonvoy today announced it has once again been named Best Hotel Loyalty Program by The Points Guy (TPG), the trusted media platform focused on maximizing travel experiences while minimizing spending.