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KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, April 23, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Tembe Elephant Park in northern KwaZulu-Natal will be hosting another of its popular “Vanishing Giants of Africa” Elephant Workshops in October 2026.

Join renowned elephant expert Dr. Johan Marais from 4-8 October 2026 for an immersive safari experience to explore elephants’ social structures, behaviour, musth, exceptional memory, and their role in wildlife conservation.  Gain insight into the long-term impacts of the ivory trade on African heritage. This workshop is open to all elephant enthusiasts, offering limited numbers for a personalized, exclusive experience. Though not a photography workshop, there will be ample photo opportunities.

The package costs 760 USD per person sharing per night including four nights at Tembe Elephant Park Lodge, the workshop with Johan Marais, all safari activities and meals. Additional costs apply for spa treatments, drinks, and levies.

Tembe Elephant Lodge is the only community-owned, full-service game lodge located within a proclaimed game reserve. Nestled in a rare and beautiful sand forest ecosystem, the lodge lies at the heart of unspoiled wilderness, offering an authentic and deeply meaningful safari experience.

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Boracay, Philippines, April 22, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Lind Hotels is expanding beyond Boracay, with Coron set to open next year and Siargao to follow.

The move marks a clear next phase for the independent Filipino brand, as it evolves from a single standout property into a carefully curated, multi-island portfolio shaped by a guest-first and adaptive approach.

The Lind Boracay, set on the prime stretch of Station 1 White Beach on the Philippines’ most famous paradise island, has long been the foundation of the brand. The reputation of the property, which was the first MICHELIN Guide-listed hotel on Boracay, has been built not only on location, but on a way of thinking that places the guest at the centre of every decision.

Indeed, the MICHELIN Guide recognition remains a meaningful milestone that continues to shape its positioning today.

Rather than following the rigid frameworks of international operators, the hotel was conceived as a place its founders would want to stay in themselves—personal, considered, and constantly evolving.

That mindset has translated into strong guest loyalty and steady growth, with repeat visitors forming a core part of the property’s success. Over the years, the hotel has continued to evolve in response to guest feedback, from introducing new dining concepts such as authentic Thai venue Yim to refining wellness and leisure offerings across the property.

“The question we always ask ourselves is simple: if we were the guest, what would we enjoy?” says Pierre Henrichs, COO of The Lind Hotels. “That mindset has guided everything we’ve built, and it continues to shape how we grow.”

The Lind Coron marks the first step in this next chapter. Slated to open next year, the new property will introduce a more personalized, villa-led experience, set on a peninsula that offers a sense of seclusion while remaining connected to the mainland. Designed to feel distinct from Boracay’s lifestyle-driven energy, the development will feature multiple restaurants, a dive centre, and a broader mix of recreational and wellness facilities.

The Lind Siargao, meanwhile, reflects a similar strategic approach: identifying destinations with strong appeal but limited high-quality supply. Often referred to as the surf capital of The Philippines, the teardrop-shaped island in Mindanao Province is one of the nation’s most idyllic hideaways. With few comparable properties currently operating on the island, the project represents an opportunity for The Lind Hotels to establish an early foothold in a fast-evolving market.

For the brand, expansion is not about scale for its own sake. Each location is selected for its long-term potential and its ability to support a distinct interpretation of the Lind experience.

“We chose to remain independent because it allows us to move quickly, adapt, and build something that truly reflects who we are,” says Henrichs. “We are not trying to grow everywhere at once. We want to do it properly, step by step.”

That independence has become a defining strength. Without the constraints of a global management structure, The Lind has been able to respond to changing guest expectations, refine its offering in real time, and maintain a clear sense of identity across its operations.

Looking ahead, the brand’s ambitions extend beyond its current pipeline. “We’ve built something in Boracay that people connect with,” says Henrichs. “As we expand into Coron and Siargao, the priority is to keep that same spirit—independent, adaptable, and always shaped around the guest.”

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Pattaya, Thailand, April 20, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / A French national with more than a decade’s experience in food and beverage leadership roles across Asia, Europe and the Middle East has been appointed Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s director of food and beverage.

Paul-Edouard Gillard has joined the 234-room Meliá Pattaya to oversee commercial F&B strategy, restaurant revenue management, GOP flow-through and cost structure optimisation. He will also create culinary and beverage concepts and menus and deliver quality hospitality through training and analysis across hotel’s rich culinary landscape, featuring Yitong Chinese Restaurant & Sky Bar, all-day dining restaurant Sanehh Sarae, Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei restaurant Den, LAY Beach Club, Chon Lounge and Lula Pool Bar.

He previously worked in Thailand at Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit where he started as a management trainee. After completing a Master of Science in International Hospitality Management with Emylon Business School and Institut Paul Bocuse, he was promoted to the opening team at the hotel’s Belga Rooftop Bar as assistant manager and restaurant revenue analyst. Before joining Meliá Pattaya, he worked as a regional category manager and brand manager for premium food service distributor Bidfood Middle East overseeing tea and coffee brands including JING Tea and illy Caffè.

He was also the F&B manager on the opening team at Carton House, a Fairmont Management Hotel, in Ireland. He co-founded an AI-powered platform in Dubai called Shiftly designed to quickly connect employers in F&B and hospitality with pre-screened professionals for fixed or flexible shifts, using AI-led interviews and psychometric assessments to evaluate candidates’ skills, reliability and role fit.

“Paul-Edouard is a commercially astute F&B leader with a proven ability to turn restaurant concepts into thriving businesses,” said Meliá Pattaya’s General Manager Javier Gimeno. “From luxury hotel openings to large-scale hospitality portfolios, his profound experience brings valuable insight into our revenue optimisation, guest engagement and team development.”

“I’m excited to join Meliá Pattaya; with such a diverse collection of dining venues, there is a tremendous opportunity to work with the team to further develop distinctive concepts for guests and the local community alike,” Gillard added.

About Asset World Corp Public Company Limited
Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group and a member of TCC Group, is redefining the country’s landscape of hospitality, commercial workspaces, and iconic lifestyle destinations with its diversified portfolio, strategically located in prime areas across the nation. Committed to creating new landmark projects that not only set new benchmarks for the industry but also strengthen Thailand’s position as a global sustainable tourism destination, AWC collaborates with world-renowned partners, including Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Nobu Hospitality, Okura Hotels, Banyan Tree, Melia International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Accor, and Hyatt, to deliver unforgettable experiences. Its portfolio features flagship commercial properties such as The Empire, Athenee Tower, Asiatique The Riverfront Destination, and Phenix, along with premier F&B destinations like ‘EA’ Rooftop at The Empire, offering world-class top cuisine. AWC is committed to delivering exceptional experiences while championing sustainability in every part of its operations to create long-term sustainable value for all stakeholders through initiatives under three key pillars of Better Planet, Better People, and Better Prosperity (3BETTERs), driving innovation and responsibility to inspire millions and elevate Thailand’s tourism and real estate industry to new heights. For more information, visit www.assetworldcorp-th.com/en/home.

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá has 125 hotels in Europe (56), America (18), Cuba (16), Africa (5) and Asia (30). We are present in 32 countries and currently have 21 hotels under development in 11 countries. At Meliá Hotels & Resorts, we stand out for our unique Spanish style in the hospitality industry and for our warmth, closeness and passion for service. This means that we offer our guests a unique wellness experience. Our Spanish warmth and spontaneity are part of our Mediterranean roots and are always present in the Meliá experience. An experience that is enriched by providing thoughtful extra services. Paying attention to the smallest details and providing personalized experiences for each guest. How do we interpret wellness in the MELIÁ brand? We see wellness from an innovative perspective. It is not wellness applied only to nutrition or wellness services, it is 360º wellness. The wellness we want to convey is global. You can find it in all aspects of the brand from different perspectives: physical wellness, spiritual wellness, leisure wellness, social wellness, occupational wellness, environmental wellness, financial wellness and nutritional wellness.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 400 hotels open or in the process of opening, in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of nine brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Affiliated by Meliá. The Company is one of the world’s leading hotel chains in the leisure segment and its experience in this area has allowed it to consolidate itself in the growing market of urban hotels inspired by leisure. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led it to be recognised as the most sustainable European hotel company in the world (chosen as “Sustainability Yearbook Member” in 2024 by S&P Global), as well as being a “Top Employer 2024” brand in Spain, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy, Germany, France and Vietnam.

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Hue, Vietnam, April 19, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Fusion Hotel Group in Vietnam offers a variety of curated experiences to celebrate Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day and the upcoming April 30 holiday, whether guests prefer unwinding by a tranquil beach or immersing themselves in the vibrant rhythm of city life.

Getaways become even more rewarding with exclusive Fusionlife member benefits, offering up to 25% off on room bookings, spa treatments and dining.

Grand Royal Riverside Hue – Fusion Collection, in the former imperial capital, offers two specially designed menus at Jade & Ginger restaurant. The “Pha Tam Giang” menu showcases the essence of Hue cuisine, while the Mediterranean menu draws inspiration from Italian and French flavors. Prices start from VND 650,000 per set, inclusive of one complimentary beverage. Guests can also indulge in a 75-minute rejuvenation treatment at Sả Wellness, featuring 30 minutes of sauna to relax the body, followed by 45 minutes of personalized therapy options such as back, neck and shoulder relief, foot acupressure, facial care or head massage. Prices start from VND 750,000. Adding to the experience, The Amber Lounge introduces “A Tale of Two Times” afternoon tea set, priced at VND 300,000 for two guests.

At Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion, guests can soak in natural hot springs, enjoy authentic Japanese-style onsen and embrace the “breakfast anytime, anywhere” concept. A range of wellness activities helps restore balance to body, mind and spirit for a truly rejuvenating retreat. Book in advance to enjoy room rates from VND 3,640,000 per room per night for two guests, inclusive of breakfast and wellness programs.

Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang introduces a Japanese dining experience available for lunch and dinner at Fresh restaurant, featuring a selection of premium seafood and imported ingredients such as salmon, tuna and seasonal catches, alongside sushi rolls and salmon rice sets. Prices start from VND 1,600,000 per set, including two complimentary glasses of sangria, rosé or white wine. Guests can also enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, including advanced facial care or relaxing foot reflexology, from VND 990,000.

The Ocean Resort by Fusion Quy Nhon creates a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere where traditional values blend seamlessly with modern resort living. A foam party at the central pool transforms the space into a whimsical wonderland, offering endless fun for both parents and children. Balance the excitement with a complimentary morning yoga session, or unwind at Maia Spa with 15% off all treatments. On April 30, enjoy a special chicken set made from locally sourced free-range chicken. The following evening, May 1, a cozy hotpot dinner featuring chicken or fresh seafood provides the perfect ending to a joyful holiday with loved ones.

Stretching along the shores of Bai Dai Beach, Fusion Resort Cam Ranh hosts “Steak Night” every Tuesday and Thursday evening at the oceanfront Fresh restaurant. The menu features a wide selection of premium meats, including imported cuts such as Black Angus flank steak and Wagyu striploin, as well as Spanish pluma pork.

The highlight of the experience is the “Farmers Platter to Share,” which includes a variety of meats served with sausages and two glasses of red wine, priced at VND 999,000. Guests can also choose from a range of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, Parmesan fries, grilled vegetables or a garden salad.

At Fusion Suites Sai Gon, guests are welcomed with exclusive offers of up to 50% off room rates, alongside 30% savings on hotel services. Valid until Sept. 30, this promotion invites travelers to unwind, rediscover balance and be wrapped in moments of peace and comfort.

Miss Thu restaurant at Fusion Original Saigon Centre introduces “The Taste of Unity” menu, celebrating the diversity and connection of Vietnamese cuisine. The menu brings together regional specialties, from yellowfin tuna with fermented dipping sauce and kaffir lime oil, to layered braised beef, traditional vegetable soup, Cha Ca La Vong, and a dessert of An Giang palm sugar sponge cake. Guests can enjoy dinner while watching fireworks in the heart of Saigon. Prices start from VND 1,000,000 per person.

HIIVE by Fusion Binh Duong New City hosts its weekly outdoor “Grill & Chill” BBQ every Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Zest restaurant. Guests can savor a wide variety of Asian specialties, grilled meats, fresh seafood and desserts, with ticket prices ranging from VND 399,000 to VND 549,000 per person.

Fusion Suites Vung Tau is offering complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability) until May 31, 2026, along with an additional 30% off 50-minute massage treatments at Maia Spa. On April 30, guests can also enjoy Japanese cuisine at KAIUN Lounge, located on the 19th floor at Fresh restaurant, while taking in panoramic views of the bay or city. The “Patriotic BBQ – Wagyu Night” event is available from VND 650,000 per guest.

Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion is celebrating its two-millionth guest with a special campaign titled “Chief Chill Officer,” a unique initiative to find a guest to take on the ultimate relaxation experience. Guests who check in and share photos or videos of their stay will have the chance to win a grand prize of a three-day, two-night getaway in the Presidential Suite for four people, along with dining vouchers, spa treatments and other resort activities.

The second prize includes a one-night stay with additional dining and experience benefits at the resort.

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Bangkok, Thailand, April 18, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Celebrate the arrival of Thailand’s summer season with one of the kingdom’s most cherished culinary traditions. This April, Thara Thong, the iconic royal Thai restaurant at Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok, presents its seasonal Khao Chae, a refined and refreshing delicacy that reflects the elegance of Thailand’s royal cuisine.

Served exclusively throughout April from 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM, this exquisite set is priced at THB 599++ per set, inviting guests to experience a timeless Thai tradition in a setting that embodies heritage and authenticity.

For more than four decades, Thara Thong has been renowned for preserving the art of Royal Thai Cuisine, welcoming diners to a magnificent traditional teakwood pavilion overlooking the Chao Phraya River. With its intricate Thai architecture, warm hospitality, and dedication to authentic culinary techniques, the restaurant offers an immersive cultural dining experience that celebrates Thailand’s gastronomic heritage.

Khao Chae, traditionally enjoyed during the hot season, is a delicately balanced dish designed to refresh and cool the palate. At Thara Thong, this elegant specialty is prepared with meticulous care by the restaurant’s talented culinary team, honoring traditional preparation methods while presenting the dish with refined artistry.

Guests will enjoy candle-smoked jasmine rice served in chilled fragrant water, accompanied by a beautifully curated selection of handcrafted condiments, each offering distinctive textures and flavors.

The Khao Chae set features:

• Candle-Smoked Jasmine Rice in Iced Fragrant Water – delicately aromatic and refreshing.
• Handcrafted Shrimp Paste Balls – skillfully seasoned and rolled to create a rich, aromatic bite.
• Caramelized Shredded Fish – fine threads slowly simmered to achieve elegant sweetness.
• Caramelized Shredded Beef – premium beef gently pulled and caramelized to perfection.
• Caramelized Shredded Pork – tender pork with a fragrant, delicately sweet finish.
• Sweet Stir-fried Pickled Radish – a classic accompaniment balancing sweetness and texture.
• Crisp Fried Sweet Pepper Filled with Delicately Seasoned Chicken – lightly fried to a golden crisp.

Served in the serene atmosphere of Thara Thong’s riverside teak pavilion, this seasonal offering allows guests to experience the grace of traditional Thai dining while overlooking the gentle flow of the Chao Phraya River.

Whether rediscovering a beloved Thai classic or experiencing it for the first time, Khao Chae at Thara Thong promises a culinary journey that blends heritage, craftsmanship, and the timeless flavors of Thailand. Khao will be available from 1 – 30 April 2026, served daily from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM, at THB 599++ per set.

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Hanoi, Vietnam, April 16, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / SONO Hotels & Resorts Asia has signed a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) with Binh Minh Urban Construction Investment, JSC for SONO Belle Hanoi Old Quarter, marking the brand’s first city hotel in Vietnam’s capital and reinforcing its growing presence in the country.

Scheduled to open in Q4 2026, the nature-led urban lifestyle hotel will introduce the SONO Belle brand to the heart of Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, a district shaped by more than 1,000 years of culture and commerce. The hotel will be located within walking distance of the iconic Hanoi Opera House, luxury boutiques, heritage landmarks, and the capital’s vibrant dining and café scene.

The hotel will feature 56 guestrooms and suites, offering a refined stay experience designed to complement the character of one of Southeast Asia’s most historic urban districts.

“Hanoi’s Old Quarter represents the cultural heart of Vietnam’s capital, where history and contemporary lifestyle meet. Partnering with SONO Hotels & Resorts allows us to introduce a distinctive hotel that reflects the spirit of the neighborhood while delivering the quality and hospitality standards of the SONO brand. We believe SONO Belle Hanoi Old Quarter will become a compelling new destination for travellers exploring this remarkable city,” said the property owner.

Jihong An, Senior Vice President – Asia, SONO Hotels & Resorts Asia, added: “We are honored to collaborate with Binh Minh Urban Construction Investment, JSC to bring SONO Belle Hanoi Old Quarter to life in such an iconic location. Hanoi is one of Asia’s most culturally rich capitals and an increasingly important destination for international travellers. This project reflects the trust our partners place in the SONO brand and supports our strategy to expand our hospitality footprint across key destinations in Asia.”

Located approximately 40 minutes from Noi Bai International Airport, SONO Belle Hanoi Old Quarter will offer convenient access for both international and regional travellers while providing an intimate gateway to the city’s heritage, culture, and evolving lifestyle scene.

With its nature-led urban lifestyle concept and prime address, the hotel is positioned to become a distinctive addition to Hanoi’s hospitality landscape and a new flagship destination for the SONO Belle brand in Vietnam.

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Bangkok, Thailand, April 16, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / As part of its 75th anniversary year, Jim Thompson, the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand, hosted an exclusive appreciation dinner at Moonlight Hall, Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter, bringing together a group of 75 invited guests, including key partners, valued customers, and long-standing supporters who have contributed to its transformation.

The evening began with an exclusive cocktail reception at the Jim Thompson House, offering guests a private experience within the brand’s historic home before proceeding to dinner. It marked a milestone for the company and served as a gesture of recognition to those who have played a role in its evolution from a Thai silk house into a global lifestyle brand spanning fashion, fabrics, hospitality, and cultural experiences.

Set within the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter, a cultural and creative destination that reflects the brand’s shift towards experience-led engagement, the gathering also comes at a time when the company continues to expand its presence across lifestyle, hospitality, and collaborations.

The guest list reflected the breadth of the brand’s relationships, spanning diplomatic, hospitality, travel, design, and retail sector communities. Attendees included ambassadors from France, Italy, South Korea, Japan, Canada, Germany, and the United States, alongside long-standing partners such as Thai Airways, leading hotel groups, and key retail and property partners including King Power, Siam Piwat, and One Bangkok, as well as design firms and some of the brand’s most loyal customers. The presence of partners across these sectors reflects the brand’s expanding role within a broader lifestyle and cultural network.

The evening also welcomed key government representatives who have supported the brand’s direction, including Eurblarp Sriphiromya (Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand) and Sanon Wangsrangboon (Deputy Governor of Bangkok).

A key moment of the evening was the exclusive preview of Jim and I: The Weaver’s Stories, presented to guests ahead of its official launch. The community-driven storytelling project explores Jim Thompson through the voices of 12 individuals who have shaped its journey, offering a collective perspective on craft, creativity, and continuity, and reflecting the idea of Jim Thompson as a legacy shaped by many hands over time. The event also introduced the first group of individuals, including Kittiphong Sansomboon, Niphon Manuthas, and Bill Bensley, whose personal stories contribute to the series.

“Jim Thompson has always evolved through the strength of its relationships,” said Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO of Jim Thompson. “This evening was an opportunity to recognize the partners and supporters who have contributed to the transformation journey. As we mark 75 years, we look ahead with the same spirit, building on a shared foundation of creativity and trust, and a continued commitment to bringing Thai design and craftsmanship to a global stage.”

The appreciation dinner forms part of Jim Thompson’s year-long 75th anniversary program, which continues to unfold through a series of cultural, creative, and storytelling initiatives across 2026.

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Bangkok, Thailand, April 16, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / City Dynamic presents A House in the Making, a film that brings together the creative teams behind Upper House Residences Bangkok and The Wireless Residences by Upper House.

The film offers a considered look at the thinking, craft, and collaboration behind the first Upper House branded residences globally, situated on a rare freehold site on Bangkok’s prestigious Wireless Road.

Featuring Foster + Partners, BAR Studio, PIA Interior and P Landscape, the film explores how architecture, interiors, landscape and service come together to shape two distinct Houses — designed for living, not spectacle.

Bringing Upper House Home

The film opens with the Upper House philosophy: Houses, not Hotels. Known for an approach to hospitality that feels personal, unforced and quietly attentive, Upper House is extending this philosophy into residential living for the first time.

“This has been a truly creative collaboration,” says Toby Smith, Chief Commercial Officer, Swire Hotels. “Upper House has never been about making statements. It’s about creating places that feel honest and personal. True Houses. And, of course, there is the service — intuitive, unscripted, and grounded in genuine human connection.”

Architecture: Hospitality in Every Detail

Led by Foster + Partners through its local entity F&P (Thailand) Ltd., the architecture draws from the proportions and spatial calm of traditional Thai villas, reinterpreted through a contemporary lens. The buildings are shaped around comfort, light and openness, with panoramic views of Lumphini Park and Benjakitti Park.

“What we wanted was to bring the idea of hospitality into ultra-luxury residential living,” explains Roland Schnizer, Lead Architect, Foster + Partners. “It’s about coming home to a sense of calm — a garden presence on Wireless Road that feels both unexpected and deeply considered.”

Interiors: Two Ways of Living Well

At Upper House Residences Bangkok, interiors by BAR Studio focus on holistic living. Spaces are designed to flow effortlessly between private retreat and shared living, with natural light, wellness and understated materiality at the core.

At The Wireless Residences by Upper House, PIA Interior brings a perspective shaped by multi-generational living. Homes are thoughtfully planned to accommodate families of different sizes and stages, with layouts that allow residents to have their own space while shared areas naturally bring the family together.

Landscape: Living with the Garden

Landscape design by P Landscape centres on the idea of a home in a garden. Pathways, planting and open spaces are composed to feel intimate and personal, gently connecting the site to Bangkok’s Green Mile and the surrounding parks.

Your Upper House

The design inspiration film reflects a shared objective among the design partners: to create two Houses that feel anchored to place, shaped by people, and made to last.

“A site like this comes along once in a generation,” says Casey Au, Co-Managing Director, City Dynamic. “These are not products. They are homes — crafted with care and designed to be lived in for years to come.”

“When we first walked the site,” adds Thomas Woolsey, Co-Managing Director, City Dynamic, “we recognised immediately how rare this opportunity was. It allowed us to create not one, but two distinct residential expressions — each with its own character, yet united by the Upper House’s way of thinking.”

Upper House Residences Bangkok and The Wireless Residences by Upper House are situated in the heart of Bangkok’s central business district, steps away from the city’s premier shopping destinations, five-star hotels, international schools, and embassies.

Currently under development, Upper House Residences Bangkok comprises 156 residences within a 52-storey building, while The Wireless Residences by Upper House comprises 239 residences within a 71-storey tower.

Both towers are scheduled for phased completion from 2029 and will be managed by Upper House.

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Malta, April 16, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Malta is one of the smallest and most densely populated states in the European Union. As of 2024, its estimated population is 563,443, resulting in a density of approximately 1.7 inhabitants per-km².

Malta’s tourism revenue growth is one of the highest among southern Mediterranean destinations. In 2024, it received 3.56 million visitors, up 20% over the previous year.

One of the current issues Malta faces is the lack of natural shade in its urban and tourist areas. As temperatures continue to rise across the Mediterranean region and globally, this shortage not only exacerbates the effects of high temperatures and heatwaves but also directly impacts the quality of life for residents and the experience of visitors.

This situation is due to several factors:

• Climate and soil: Malta has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers. Combined with its limestone-based soil and limited availability of freshwater, this makes it difficult for trees and dense vegetation to thrive.
• History of deforestation: Human activity has led to widespread deforestation for various purposes, resulting in the near-total absence of natural forests today.
• High population density and urbanization: Intense urban development and high population density have limited the available space for green areas and tree planting.

This lack of shade contributes to the urban heat island effect, affecting residents’ quality of life and the experience of tourists, especially during the hottest months, and increasing the need for climate-resilient urban solutions.

To address this issue, innovative green technology (green tech) solutions are being considered, such as the implementation of green infrastructure, living roofs, and green corridors that can provide shade and improve thermal comfort and support local efforts to adapt urban spaces to increasing heat in urban areas.

The limitations of soil fertility hinder the planting of traditional trees and vegetation, demanding new solutions adapted to the local context.

Innovation Opportunity

In this environment, green innovation emerges as a key tool to help cities adapt to rising temperatures while enhancing the liveability of public spaces. This challenge aims to identify sustainable technological solutions that provide shade through green infrastructure, innovative materials, smart urban design, or bioinspired technologies. The goal is to enhance the liability of public spaces, promote high-quality tourism, and strengthen community well-being.

Challenge Objectives

• Mitigate urban heat and strengthen climate resilience: Promote innovative solutions that improve thermal comfort through green structures, living roofs, green corridors, or smart shading technologies.
• Improve the Tourist Experience: Increase the time spent and enjoyment of tourists in open spaces by creating more comfortable, cooler, and visually appealing environments.
• Enhance Residents’ Quality of Life: Reduce the impact of extreme heat in urban and recreational areas, improving public health and community interaction.
• Promote the Green Economy: Stimulate entrepreneurship in green technologies, sustainable architecture, urban agriculture, and climate-adapted infrastructure solutions.

Collaboration Activities

• Challenge Launch: National and international announcement of an open call for innovative companies, scaleups and startups (with an existing product or a pilot project) with proposals for Malta.
• Bootcamp (Optional: online or physical) Selected participants will take part in an intensive training process (bootcamp) with experts in sustainable architecture, urban design, climate technology, and regenerative tourism.
• Final Presentation Event: Presentation of solutions before a panel composed of Maltese government representatives, tourism agencies, investors, and strategic partners.
• Awards and Implementation: Winning projects will receive national visibility, and institutional support to scale up their solutions.
• Pilot Project: Implementation of pilot initiatives in key areas (squares, bus stops, tourist zones) with technical and community monitoring.

Impact

• Positioning Malta as an innovative reference in urban heat reduction.
• Reduction of the urban heat island effect.
• Increased thermal and visual comfort in urban spaces.
• Higher satisfaction among tourists and residents.
• Promotion of local and international green innovation.
• Strengthened climate resilience of urban spaces to rising temperatures and heatwaves.

Timeline

• March 2026 (Launch of Call for Applications)
• March 2026 -April 2026 (Promotion and Outreach)
• 17th April 2026 (Application Submission Deadline)
• End of April 2026 (Initial Screening)
• End of April 2026 (Announcement of Shortlisted Startups)

Target stakeholders, startups, scaleups y MSMEs and innovators

Stakeholders, startups, scaleups y MSMEs and innovators from all over the world and all economic sectors are invited to participate if meeting the following criteria:

• Be innovative in nature providing value-added solutions
• Be sustainability-driven
• Be scalable: to have potential for international growth and potential to be applied in corporations and destinations (countries, regions)
• Be an Early Stage or Series A startup
• Introduction or adoption of digital and technological elements
• Have a tested pilot and business plan
• Have been accelerated before
• Have a full-time team. Gender balance will be also considered.

All ways of innovation are welcome: technology, social impact and sustainability solutions.

Participant Benefits

• Present their solution at Tourism Tech Adventures
• Participate in the Bootcamp
• Global visibility for their project and connection with investors
• Support in launching a pilot project in collaboration with local authorities
• Become part of the UN Tourism Innovation Network
• Access scholarships from the UN Tourism Online Academy

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Bangkok, Thailand, April 16, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / Minor Hotels has unveiled plans to build a new global data and AI platform from the ground up in partnership with Google Cloud, Salesforce, OneTrust and Deloitte, marking a major acceleration of the group’s long-term digital transformation strategy.

Global partnership with Google Cloud, Salesforce, OneTrust and Deloitte will unify guest data and enable AI-driven personalisation, leapfrogging legacy systems.

The initiative represents one of the most significant technology investments in Minor Hotels’ history. It also marks a deliberate move to lead the hospitality sector in using data and AI to personalise experiences and strengthen direct relationships with guests across its more than 640 properties in operation and committed development worldwide.

At its core is the creation of a single digital platform connecting global guest data, marketing and service operations. This will allow the group to recognise guests more consistently across brands and destinations, personalise communications and offers based on preferences and past stays, while ensuring guest data is managed responsibly, with privacy and governance embedded into the platform from the outset.

The new platform, set for full deployment within 2026, is being developed independently of any legacy systems. This enables Minor Hotels to leapfrog traditional technology by building directly on the latest enterprise-grade AI capabilities from its technology partners, ensuring it is designed from day one to take advantage of advances in generative AI, intelligent agents and automation.

This clean-sheet approach is expected to significantly compress development timelines compared to traditional transformation programmes and positions the group to evolve its commercial and service capabilities more quickly as AI technologies continue to mature.

“AI is becoming the front door to travel – and with it, control over demand is shifting,” said Ian Di Tullio, Chief Commercial Officer of Minor Hotels. “The brands that win will not be the most visible, but the most intelligent: those able to respond in real time, own their data and shape the guest relationship directly. At Minor Hotels, we are building that capability at scale, ensuring we don’t just participate in this new landscape, but define our position within it.”

Designing a future-native platform for AI-driven hospitality

The platform will be built on Google Cloud’s AI-optimised technology stack, with BigQuery and Vertex AI serving as the interoperable data and intelligence layer. This will enable Minor Hotels to unify guest data across brands, regions and digital touchpoints. It provides the foundation for a stay defined by ‘continuity’, where a guest’s unique preferences are understood and honoured whether checking into an Anantara in Thailand or a Tivoli in Portugal.

Minor Hotels then aims to move beyond simple AI-driven questions and answers to agentic orchestration. The platform will enable the future deployment of Google-made, third-party or custom AI agents grounded in Minor Hotels’ unified data. By tethering the agents to this single source of truth, they will, for instance, be capable of reliably managing bookings, curating itineraries and resolving complex guest requests in real time.

“The future belongs to context-aware AI agents that anticipate needs and execute tasks throughout the travel journey,” said Mark Micallef, Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Google Cloud. “By anchoring its transformation on Google Cloud’s open and secure full-stack architecture, our native integrations with Salesforce and the solution engineering expertise of our partners like Deloitte, Minor Hotels is bypassing the integration hurdles of fragmented traditional clouds and establishing the blueprint for more personalised, proactive and responsive guest experiences.”

Salesforce, a global leader in AI Customer Relationship Management, will power marketing automation and guest communications across the travel journey with Agentforce Marketing. Data 360 will integrate guest preferences from the unified data and help drive precise, real-time segmentation, enabling Minor Hotels to unlock new commercial opportunities while strengthening guest satisfaction and loyalty.

“In the AI era, the margin for error in customer experience has disappeared. Guests expect interactions to be instant, intuitive and deeply personal,” said Apisit Kuparatana, Country Leader and Managing Director, Salesforce Thailand. “Automation grounded in relevant guest insights can help turn distinct guest touchpoints into a meaningful, connected journey.”

OneTrust, a leading platform for AI-Ready Governance, will play a central role in ensuring guest data is managed responsibly and in compliance with global privacy regulations. Privacy and consent management are being embedded directly into the platform architecture, enabling Minor Hotels to scale personalisation while maintaining trust and transparency with guests.

“Consent is the foundation of lasting customer relationships and durable data strategies,” said Arran Mulvaney, Regional Director, ASEAN, OneTrust. “With privacy and governance embedded in its platform from the outset, Minor Hotels demonstrates a clear commitment to its guests by making responsible data use a priority, not an afterthought.”

The new platform will support the development of new AI-enabled capabilities designed to enhance both guest engagement and operational efficiency. Intelligent service agents will help contact centre and hotel teams respond more quickly to guest requests, while AI-powered engagement tools will support personalised interactions and smarter recommendations for experiences and upgrades across stays and destinations. As AI continues to reshape how travellers search, discover and book travel, the platform will support Minor Hotels in adapting to emerging AI-led discovery environments, where digital assistants increasingly influence decision-making and conversion.

Bringing the digital ecosystem together

Deloitte, one of the world’s biggest consulting and transformation firms, is the strategy and implementation partner to Minor Hotels and leading the co-design and integration of this future-native technology stack into a coherent enterprise operating model. Deloitte is working with all parties to ensure that the latest AI capabilities are not deployed in isolation, but firmly embedded into core processes, decision-making and ways of working so that they are fit for purpose for Minor Hotels and its customers in over 63 countries.

“Transformations of this scale not only require powerful technology, but they also require alignment across the organisation and working with each of the country operations to ensure that utilisation is seamless and effective,” said Dr Metinee Jongsaliswang, Country Managing Partner, Deloitte Thailand. “It is a great privilege for us to work together with Minor Hotels and the other partners to bring together the right technology ecosystem and integration strategy to create a platform that can evolve with the business, unlock new opportunities for growth and guest engagement and be the forefront of the future for the hospitality sector.”

With further developments planned across digital experience, experiential commerce and AI-enabled services, Minor Hotels is building a platform that will underpin the next generation of personalised hospitality across its global portfolio.

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