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61% of travel business surveyed experimenting with or scaling agentic AI

All signs point to 2026 as the year of agentic artificial intelligence, which is gen AI capable of completing real-world tasks instead simply generating content. Agentic AI has already played a major role in the next-generation automation of companies, increasing productivity while reducing costs. The launch and rapid adoption of the model context protocol (MCP), an open, universal standard for connecting AI applications to other systems, was arguably the most significant development in 2025. Over half of the companies surveyed have already explored or implemented emerging agentic AI standards such as MCP and A2A.2025 saw the launch and maturation a multitude of agentic business automation and mainstream agentic consumer offerings by Google, OpenAI and Visa. Phocuswright will bring its insights-driven expertise at Phocuswright Europe, which takes place 15-17 June 2026, in Barcelona. This event will bring together executives and leaders in the travel industry to examine where gen AI, agentic AI, and other AI technologies are already delivering real value, how budgets have been shifted to support them, as well as what’s preventing organizations from scaling. Phocuswright Europe is the perfect place to learn and network with the brightest executives in the industry as agentic AI grows. The program, speaker list and attendee lists represent the biggest names of travel. Nearly half of the attendees will be C-level executives, presidents or partners, who are the decision-makers.

85% of the people in charge will be at director level or higher: Those with budgets, influence, and vision. Deals begin to take root. Strategies are stirring. The right conversation can change everything. If you want to stay ahead, you must be in this room. Register before 30th April and save EUR300 on your tickets.

  

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TravelNews

Prague as a hub of global tourism. The capital hosts Czechia Travel Trade Day 2026

Prague transforms into a hub of global tourism for two days. The Czech Tourist Authority – CzechTourism organizes the largest incoming tourism in Czechia – Czechia Travel Trade Day 2020, which takes place on 20 and 21 April. This year, the event is being organised in collaboration with Prague City Tourism, regional tourism organisations and the Czech Tourist Authority. TTD as a platform for business and inspirationCzechia’s Travel Trade Day is one of the biggest events for promoting inbound tourism. CzechTourism organizes it in collaboration with partners, including representatives of regions and cities, destination management organizations and other stakeholders. The two-day program is built around prearranged business meetings where international tour operators, travel agencies and Czech tourism entrepreneurs meet. The event offers opportunities for specific partnerships, while also showcasing the diverse range of tourist attractions in each region. The event is an important opportunity for Czech businesses to connect with international partners, and it opens up new possibilities for the development of tourism inbound. The tourism industry is not a marginal one. In Czechia, it generates hundreds and thousands of jobs and hundreds of billions in Czech crowns each year. Events like this help bring tangible revenue and business to regions throughout the country. Around twenty journalists from Europe and beyond are also present. “During the familiarisation tours, our international guests visited various regions and got to see historic landmarks and traditional crafts as well as contemporary tourism products. They made important business contacts, and they saw for themselves that Czechia is a country with a lot to offer. It’s easily accessible, and visitors can combine multiple experiences in a single day,” said Frantisek Rismuller, Director, CzechTourism. TTD confirms that first-hand experiences and face-to-face encounters are indispensable in promoting tourism. The concept of this year, with familiarisation tours taking place throughout the country, also supports the spread tourism to the regions. “In preparing the programme for this year, CzechTourism collaborated with regional tourism organizations and Prague City Tourism which organises many of the activities in Prague.” As part of TTD this year, we present Prague, among others, through guided walks, that take international reporters and partners along new paths inspired by Dan Brown’s book and extend beyond the historic center, such as the Folimanka Bunker. We also want to show the evolution of tourism in Prague, as well as the changing visitor profiles we are targeting with our campaigns and innovative products like the multifunctional Prague Visitor Pass. We are seeing a demand for higher quality services, luxury hotels, and increased visitor expenditure,” says Michal Drobik, Commercial Director of Prague City Tourism. What’s new this YearThe location of TTD is changed every year to allow international guests to experience Czechia as it is. The event was held in previous years in Hradec Krlove, Brno, Karlovy Vary, Ceske Budejovice, Liberec, Pilsen, Olomouc, and Ostrava. We have also added new features – business meetings with foreign tour operators and directors from our foreign offices are now held on both days. CzechTourism product managers are also present to showcase specific tourism products. The first day will include a panel discussion about current topics. The second day will feature a presentation on Czechia. We are expanding networking opportunities, and introducing new formats, which provide inspiration and a wider perspective on the future of tourism in Czechia,” says Tereza Hofmanova. Director of Product Management Research and B2B Cooperation.

The programme also includes a gala evening at Slovansky dum, providing an opportunity for informal networking and the further development of business relationships.Czechia as a destination with much to offerCzechia Travel Trade Day consistently demonstrates that Czechia is an attractive and competitive tourism destination. It connects the domestic sector of tourism with the global market. It supports business in the industry, and creates opportunities for the further growth of inbound tourism.

  

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Best Time to Visit Coorg: Monsoon Magic vs. Summer Escapes in Forest Sanctuaries

Coorg (Kodagu), however, does not make a big noise. It attracts you with its coffee-scented air and dense green slopes. If you’re planning a refined getaway in the Western Ghats region, you have two distinct moods to choose from: monsoon when the landscape is lyrical, rain-washed, or summer when the forest sanctuaries are cool, shaded and unhurried. Here’s how each season affects Coorg so you can plan your trip to enjoy the best of it.Coorg’s charm changes with the seasons. The same view, the same drive, or even the same cup can feel completely different depending on the season.

* Sound follows the rain amplifying waterfalls and rustling foliage; summer brings birdsong, and evening cicadas. Monsoon Magic: When Coorg turns cinematic.

The monsoon is not just weather in Coorg. It’s an atmosphere with hills that slip in and out of clouds and plantations that gleam after every rain.

* Estate roads are surrounded by pepper vines, areca palms, and dripping rain.

What you will love the most during rainy days is a simple balcony moment: warm tea, a cool breeze and a changing horizon.

Monsoons are perfect for slow, leisurely walks through coffee estates. The soil is rich and the leaves are shining.

* A spa day that feels more restorative than planned, especially if it is raining outside.

The monsoon season is a time to plan around the trade-offs.

When you plan ahead, you can enjoy luxury without having to worry about the weather.

* Leeches are a part of the forest story. This is especially true after rain. Covered shoes and socks can make a big difference.

Summer escapes: clear skies, cool shade and forest sanctuary bliss

Coorg’s summer reminds us that’summer in the hills’ can still be gentle. The days are brighter and the mornings crisper. The forests provide a natural air conditioner.

Open-air dining is best done in the evenings when there’s a gentle breeze and a starry sky.

What summer activity is best?

Summer offers more hours of sunshine, which means you can spend more time outdoors.

* Viewpoints are clearer and perfect for those “wide open” Coorg photos.

* Small-town markets and local markets are easier to navigate, especially if they allow you to browse and taste as you go.

Small choices can make a big difference. Plan your forest excursions early in the morning, and then return in the afternoon to rest and refresh.

* Bring water, sunscreen and a light jacket for the evenings.

Choose weekdays and shoulder dates if you want a quieter vacation.

The forests of Coorg are not just a backdrop. They are a presence. The sanctuaries change character depending on the season, whether you are in Brahmagiri or Pushpagiri or the wider Nagarhole landscape.

Streams and cascades can appear in unexpected locations, transforming trails into routes of discovery.

Summer in the forest: open trails and improved visibility

The forest can be easier to read in the summer. The forest is more readable in summer.

* Nature and trekking trails are more comfortable with fewer weather interruptions.

Choosing the best time to visit: an experience-first approach

Coorg doesn’t have a single “best” month. Coorg asks you to choose how you want to feel and the season that suits your pace.

Choose summer for clarity, longer outdoor time, and a forest sanctuary that is easy to arrange.

* If you’re travelling for a special occasion, both seasons are suitable: the monsoon season is intimate and the summer is expansive.

The accommodation you choose will determine your season just as much as your itinerary will determine the season. You want to feel comfortable and private in the rain. In the summer, you’ll want open spaces, shaded pathways, and easy access nature. When choosing a luxury resort in India look for thoughtful indoor/outdoor design, personalised service, and nature-led moments which feel curated. When choosing a 5-star Coorg resort, consider wellness, discreet service and spaces that allow you to enjoy Coorg when you’re doing nothing.

Choose the right items to make your trip effortless.

* Summer: cottons that breathe, a light sweater for the evenings, sunblock, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes.

Both monsoons and summers can be equally beautiful if you are drawn to Coorg by its forests, plantations and sense of green luxury. The monsoon brings romance, atmosphere, and a fresh-washed beauty to Coorg that makes you want to slow down. Summer brings brighter days and easier movement. It also offers a sanctuary time that feels expansive. Coorg will do what it does best, which is to make you feel deeply restored. Choose the season that suits your pace.

  

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TravelNews

Etihad Airways unveils six new destinations, expanding footprint across the Africa continent

Etihad Airways These developments will position Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its role in enabling these flows, supporting deeper economic engagement between the regions.In parallel, it also complements Etihad’s strategic joint venture with Ethiopian Airlines, which this month marked 80 years of operations, further strengthening connectivity across the African continent.ADVERTISEMENTAntonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Africa is a natural and compelling next step in Etihad’s network expansion. These markets have “Demand This expansion is This means that passengers For cargo, it provides more direct and reliable access between two regions where trade is growing rapidly.”The new services will provide direct links between African markets and Abu Dhabi, while enabling one-stop connections to China, India, across Asia and throughout the Middle East.DESTINATIONSAccra, Ghana One of West Africa’s most welcoming and energetic capitals, where a thriving arts scene and the buzzing Osu neighbourhood make it an increasingly compelling destination.Asmara, Eritrea A city frozen in elegant time, Asmara’s UNESCO-listed modernist and art deco streetscapes lend it an otherworldly atmosphere quite unlike anywhere else on the continent.Harare, Zimbabwe A leafy, grid-planned capital at high altitude on the Highveld, where the National Gallery, vibrant Mbare market and a warm-hearted population make it a city of charm and understated sophistication.Kinshasa, DR Congo A major river city of some 17 million on the banks of the Congo, birthplace of soukous and rumba and home to a cultural scene of extraordinary depth and creativity.Lubumbashi, DR Congo The copper-rich capital of Haut-Katanga province in the DRC’s deep south, shaped by mining wealth, with the Lubumbashi Museum offering one of Central Africa’s finest ethnographic collections.Lagos, Nigeria Africa’s largest city, a megapolis of more than 20 million people, where entrepreneurial energy and a globally influential music and food scene define the experience.The addition of African routes enables single-connection journeys between key cities across Africa and Asia via Abu Dhabi, creating a more efficient and commercially relevant corridor for both passengers and cargo. The addition of African

  

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Radisson Hotel Group introduces Radisson RED Izmir Point Bornova

The first Radisson RED Hotel in Turkiye opens at Radisson RED Point Bornova, marking the debut of the brand in the Turkish market. The new Radisson RED Izmir Point Bornova hotel is located in the vibrant Bornova district and introduces Radisson RED’s bold, socially-forward, design-driven hospitality concept to Izmir. It offers a lifestyle experience that combines creativity, community and contemporary comfort. The Radisson RED Izmir Point Bornova offers 204 modern guest rooms, all with a variety of modern amenities. It is seamlessly integrated into the Point Bornova Shopping Mall and provides direct access to the city’s dynamic lifestyle, convenient transportation links and local attractions. The hotel offers a rooftop bar and restaurant with views of the city, flexible meeting rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, wellness services, pet-friendly facilities, free Wi-Fi, and EV charging station. The hotel features vibrant social spaces including a lively bar in the lobby that reflects the brand’s character. A new way to connect, stay and celebrate in Izmir Radisson RED Izmir, Point Bornova offers a contemporary and expressive design that sets a confident tone. Open social areas encourage guests to relax, connect and work. The rooftop restaurant is a creative hub with panoramic views of the city and an energetic ambience, which is complemented by relaxed dining poolside that seamlessly transitions from day to evening. The hotel’s social scene is characterized by a music-led atmosphere, curated drinks, and a flexible event venue. It offers ambiances for social gatherings, weddings, and celebrations. Design that encourages creativity and connection

The design of Radisson RED Izmir Point Bornova reflects the playful, contemporary aesthetic of the brand while taking inspiration from Izmir’s urban energy. The hotel’s interiors are characterized by vibrant colors, modern materials and expressive interiors. Public areas and guestrooms balance functionality and personality, encouraging creativity and interaction. The design is infused with subtle references to local culture and lifestyle, ensuring that the hotel feels authentically linked to its surroundings, while delivering a new, design-led, experience that is unmistakably RED. “Radisson RED Izmir Point Bornova offers more than just a hotel. It brings a new spirit to the city. The hotel’s design reflects the rhythm of urban living, encouraging connection and creativity. It features bold design, vibrant social spaces and flexible dining and event experiences. We are proud to be the first Radisson RED hotel in Turkiye. Our lifestyle-driven approach resonates with travelers as well as the local community,” said Serdar Karlidag. General Manager of Radisson RED Izmir Point Bornova. ADVERTISEMENTA gathering point for all.

Radisson RED Izmir Point Bornova’s social spaces are designed for connection and to create a lively community-driven environment. Open layouts, flexible sitting areas, and welcoming food-and-beverage venues encourage guests to spend time outside their rooms. Mixology and dining are at the center of the hotel’s energy. RED Bites is the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, which can also be transformed into RED ROOF. It offers panoramic views of the city and a vibrant atmosphere for dining and drinking. It is designed as a social hub and offers a relaxed but energetic atmosphere. It is ideal for casual meals, evening gatherings and the hotel’s lifestyle-driven creative spirit. The Lobby Bar is located in the heart of the Hotel and offers a welcoming space to relax or meet. The venue, which features a contemporary mixology and a social, comfortable environment, encourages spontaneous interactions throughout the day. From a coffee break to a cocktail in the evening, it is the perfect place for spontaneous interaction. A restoRED balance

Radisson RED Izmir Point Bornova features a range wellness and lifestyle facilities that are designed for active and relaxing stays. The hotel’s spa offers a tranquil retreat with saunas and massage rooms where professional therapists provide treatments aimed at relieving tension and restoring equilibrium. GYM REDZONE is a fully-equipped fitness center that is open 24 hours per day for guests who maintain a fitness regimen. The space has been designed to be flexible and convenient, allowing guests the freedom to train at any hour, whether it is a quick workout in between meetings or working out at their own pace outside of standard hours. A large outdoor pool and padel court are available for guests to enjoy a relaxed and social way to stay active. The hotel is pet-friendly, welcoming guests who travel with their pets, and promoting a flexible lifestyle. Concierge services can help with local recommendations, personalized requests and arrangements. This will ensure a smooth stay. “The opening Radisson RED Izmir point Bornova marks an essential milestone in our Turkiye growth strategy. The first Radisson RED in the Turkish market, this hotel strengthens our lifestyle portfolio. It also reflects our aim to reach 100 Turkiye hotels within the next five-year period. We are proud to introduce the Radisson RED to Izmir. The city is a natural fit for the brand’s creativity, energy and social spirit”, says Yilmaz Yildirimlar COO Europe of Radisson Hotel Group. The Radisson RED Izmir Point Bornova is easily accessible from the Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport. It can be reached in 20 minutes by car, and it’s also well-connected by public transport.

Visit RadissonHotels.com for more information and to book Radisson RED Izmir Point Bornova.

  

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TRIBE Launches Global Vinyl Club

TRIBE Hotels launched TRIBE Vinyl Club at Disquaire Day / Record Store Day, 18 April. The initiative brings vinyl culture to its hotels through curated listening station, neighbourhood partnerships, as well as an exclusive vinyl release. The initiative is anchored in a partnership with Disquaire Day / Record Store Day that links TRIBE’s hotel network internationally with local record shops. Together, they create listening rooms across hotels and neighbourhoods – extending the TRIBE vibe beyond the walls of the hotel. In May 2026, TRIBE’s own vinyl titled “New Grounds” will be released, curated by Radio Nova. The limited LP is an acoustic journey inspired by connection and movement, spanning generations and genres. It brings together established and emerging artists, such as Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Brian Eno and John Cale. Danny Brown. Martina Topley Bird. Khruangbin. The LP will include four tracks that were created exclusively for TRIBE. This adds a collectible and rare dimension to the record. Only 1,000 copies are available in selected TRIBE Hotels and partner record shops. TRIBE vinyl club is centered around listening stations that are installed in selected TRIBE hotels. These social, relaxed spaces invite guests to browse curated collections of vinyl records, select records that grab their attention or ear, plug-in and listen. Each station includes tailor-made furniture, premium Audio-Technica gear, such as the AT-LP60XUSBGM record player and ATH-M20x headphone, along with a selection of rare records and iconic records curated by local record stores. The first listening station was introduced at TRIBE Clichy in Paris, with other addresses to follow, including London, Lyon, Dusseldorf and Auckland. Each participating TRIBE location will be paired up with a curated list of independent record stores in the area, highlighted on digital city maps. These maps are accessible at: https://tribehotels.com/en/our-story/tribe-vinyl-club/.ADVERTISEMENT”TRIBE is a social hotel that brings people together, creating spaces for life, social dining, and shared culture – the great substance of urban lifestyles. Jean-Yves Minet Global Brand President Midscale & Economy at Accor said: “Today, this comes to life with the launch of the TRIBE vinyl club.” “Music brings people closer together, and in the last decade, we’ve seen a resurgence in vinyl culture that reflects a wider shift towards authenticity, craftsmanship and more immersive experiences. These values are also transforming the way we travel today. Vinyl is more than nostalgia. It represents ritual, connection, and intention. We are creating moments where people can engage through culture, creativity and discovery. Music becomes a part of hotel life.This partnership brings two communities together who share the same values, such as independence, curiosity and passion for music. TRIBE helps independent record stores reach a new audience and creates new platforms for musical exploration by opening their hotels to vinyl. It is a powerful demonstration of how hospitality and culture can complement each other.” “Disquaire Day/Record Store Day has always celebrated the culture and community around independent record shops,” said Phoebe Scott. Record Store Day UK Coordinator. “Partnering up with TRIBE brings that culture into social, design led spaces where people naturally gather. It’s exciting to see vinyl evolve beyond the record shop, while still remaining true to its roots of discovery, independence, and human connection.

  

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