Category Hotel, Organisations & Operators

Avani Hotels & Resorts has launched Avani Book Club, a new global initiative that helps guests connect with each destination through books, local stories and shared reading experiences. Designed for travellers looking for slower, more meaningful ways to spend their time away, the programme brings together curated reading lists, in-hotel book corners, book swaps, author-led events and relaxed reading moments across selected Avani hotels and resorts worldwide. The launch responds to the rise of online reading communities, from BookTok to Bookstagram, as books become part of how people plan, share and remember travel.

Barceló Hotel Group announces the opening of Barceló Roma, a new city hotel in the Italian capital and the result of a €41 million investment. Following a complete refurbishment, the hotel pays tribute to 20th century Roman Rationalist architecture and will set a new benchmark for contemporary hospitality in one of Europe’s most visited destinations.
Perfectly situated near Rome’s historic centre and Vatican City, Barceló Roma is a dynamic destination where business, culture and modern city life come together. Its 352 rooms blend sophisticated design, comfort and high-quality finishes, offering something for all types of guests.

Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch has opened reservations ahead of its highly anticipated debut, marking a defining milestone for Waldorf Astoria in the United Kingdom. Set within one of London’s most iconic Grade I listed monuments, the hotel will introduce overnight stays in Admiralty Arch for the first time in its history.

Maldivian-owned group Versa Hospitality today announces the launch of Versa Keys: a tiered loyalty programme designed to reward guests for their curiosity, loyalty and time spent across the group’s growing collection of destinations worldwide.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation today announced the opening of THE BARAI HUA HIN, marking the debut of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand in Thailand.

Set along the historic Khao Takiap coastline in Hua Hin, a favored seaside destination for generations of Thai royalty, the 98-room beachfront resort brings together standout wellness tradition, locally-inspired design and the spirit of Sanook (สนุก) – the Thai expression for the joy of living.

Opening in late 2026, The Warbler Hotel will debut as a 58-key boutique hotel that will house Mildred’s, a martini bar and restaurant, and Upstairs, a poolside lounge, overlooking the lush canopy of St. Charles Avenue’s famed oak trees. Designed as a welcoming gathering place for locals and travelers alike, The Warbler embodies the enduring spirit of Old World New Orleans. Located at 1923 St. Charles Avenue, along the city’s most iconic corridor, The Warbler is poised to become a signature destination for discerning travelers from around the world.

Jumeirah, a global leader in hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, has partnered with Humantra to launch an exclusive and limited-edition summer electrolyte flavour, Pineapple – inspired by the places people travel to recharge and reset.

The collaboration brings together two Dubai-born brands with global reach and a shared commitment to wellbeing, community and generosity, grounded in the belief that true luxury lies in feeling your best

Langham Hospitality Group has appointed Josh Littman as Head of Development – EMEA. Based in London, Littman will lead the Group’s expansion efforts across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, with a focus on securing new hotel and branded residence contracts for The Langham Hotels & Resorts, Cordis Hotels & Resorts, Eaton and Ying’nFlo.
BTN recently had the opportunity of putting several questions to Josh as he takes up his new position within the company.

Accor has announced a new chapter for one of Melbourne’s most iconic coastal addresses, with Saint Kilda Beach Hotel currently undergoing a landmark transformation led by owner ERDI, ahead of its reopening as Novotel St Kilda in October 2026.

The transformation of the former Saint Kilda Beach Hotel will see 80 redesigned guest rooms debut, featuring a contemporary coastal palette to create calming spaces that support restorative sleep and everyday balance – core to Novotel’s design philosophy.

Club Med, the pioneer of the all-inclusive concept with nearly 60 resorts in some of the world’s most desired vacation destinations, and VICI Properties Inc. an S&P 500 experiential real estate investment trust, announced today the acquisition and planned redevelopment of the iconic Carambola Beach Resort, located in the U.S. Virgin Islands, marking the return of Club Med to U.S. shores. The future Club Med St. Croix will reinforce the hospitality brand’s leadership in the premium all-inclusive category, while bringing a renewed spirit to the destination’s most historic beachfront property.