ATIA CEO Dean Long has been appointed Vice Chair of the World Travel Agents Associations Alliance (WTAAA) as the organisation embarks on a period of transformation.

A new ship and a new destination in East Africa, as well as the chance to view the world’s largest tortoise population. It all marks Aqua Expeditions’ expansion after five years of operating in Southeast Asia and South America, further details of which were released last night at a private media dinner in Sydney hosted by Francesco Galli Zugaro, Founder and CEO of the cruise line.

Qatar Tourism is working hard to establish Qatar as a leading cruise destination, with a huge spike in cruise visitors in the 2024/25 season setting it firmly on the right path.

Silver Nova, the first ship in Silversea’s Nova class, has arrived in Australia for the first time, kicking off a summer that will be spent in local waters.

The 2024 Luxperience ‘Luxe Awards’ Winners were unmasked last night at a glamorous celebration of the most inspiring and innovative contributors in the luxury travel industry. The Masquerade-themed celebration was a fitting way to officially mark the opening of the 2024 luxury industry showcase and recognise the excellence and the creativity of the leading travel industry participants who are transforming travel into an artform of meaningful experiences and unforgettable journeys.

Anthony Goldman, Joint Managing Director of Goldman Group has continued his messaging on the need for improved transparency and definitions of the term ‘luxury’ travel. Speaking at the Goldman Group Conference in Melbourne on Saturday, Goldman said the word has become cannibalised by “people” wanting to capitalise on the growth of high-end travel, more so since the pandemic.

Relais & Châteaux has added eight new members to its Association in recent months, bringing the total number of newcomers to 31 properties this year. Within that stable is Lizard Island which joined the elite membership in March, reported first by LATTE.

South African luxury ecotourism and conservation brand, Singita, will open its first lodge in Botswana in mid-2026.

Travellers are looking at sustainability in a new light, searching for ways to ensure their holidays leave a positive impact on the communities they visit, according to global network Virtuoso.

With the initial signs of HX’s switch to an all-inclusive model already looking promising, the expedition cruise line says it is prepared for its competitors to follow in its tracks.

Virtuoso’s global network sales have soared to a record high this year to date, up 14% on the same period last year.

Highly acclaimed destination management company, IC Bellagio, marked 25 years of operation with a bellissimo three-day event earlier this month in Italy.