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As we reflect on the Earth Day theme of this year “Our Power, Our Planet”, the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association and the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism reaffirm their dedication to protecting the natural and human resources in the region. The sister organizations recognize that regional and local stakeholders are important in supporting individual and collective actions to preserve and strengthen Caribbean’s environment. “Earth Day reminds us that the Caribbean’s greatest strength, its natural beauty, is also our shared responsibility,” stated CHTA President Sanovnik Detang. “Our members are working to reduce their environmental footprint and help the communities who make our destinations unique. The theme for this year reinforces the fact that meaningful progress is made through collective action. The tourism sector plays a key role in this. They work with 32 national hotel and tourist associations, as well as regional and local government agencies and multilateral organizations to address issues that affect residents and visitors.Both organizations place a high priority on their work in crisis preparedness. The Caribbean hospitality and tourism sector is better prepared for natural disasters and their recovery thanks to these ongoing efforts. CAST’s acting chair, Karolin Troubetzkoy, said that the Earth Day theme, “Our Power, Our Planet”, highlights the responsibility we share as individuals, businesses, governments, and organizations to preserve, restore, and protect our environment. “Real progress happens when we work together – sharing best practices, supporting innovation, and lifting each other forward.”In collaboration with their public sector counterpart, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), CHTA and CAST have supported efforts to reduce the tourism industry’s energy consumption through improved operational efficiencies and the use of renewable energy.ADVERTISEMENTBeyond this collaboration, CHTA and CAST are advancing sustainability priorities across the region, from waste management and health and safety to human resource development, economic linkages, circular economy practices, and coral reef conservation.For more information on CHTA, visit www.CaribbeanHotelandTourism.com. For more information on CAST, visit www.Cast.CaribbeanHotelandTourism.com.

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Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have announced today that the airline has purchased six 787 Dreamliner aircraft as it fulfills its commitments under the landmark 2023 order. Ethiopian Airlines plans to use the 787-9 jets in order to expand its intercontinental flight network out of Addis Ababa, and to increase cargo capacity at a time when demand for long-haul flights is on the rise. The order is a sign of Ethiopian Airlines’ continued growth and readiness for future achievements. By increasing our fleet size, we can maintain operational excellence and passengers comfort.

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Phocuswright’s Managing Director, Pete Comeau, announced today the program for Phocuswright Europe. The program highlights a curated program shaped by the priorities and pressures that define the travel industry today. This year’s program is focused on the real work that companies are doing in technology, from AI and agenticcommerce to identity and loyalty. It creates a place for leaders to learn from each other, compare approaches and move forward more confidently. The pace of change is creating a natural inflection point for the industry, and Phocuswright Europe is where executives come to find the signals that help them benchmark, recalibrate and act.”The Phocuswright Europe 2026 program features:ADVERTISEMENTTop executives from across the travel ecosystem, including leaders from Trip.com, Thayer Investment Partners, Microsoft, Amadeus, Hostelworld and moreInterviews with senior executives, such as James Waters (Chairman of Booking.com) and Dara Brady (Chairman of Marketing at Ryanair).

High-impact panels addressing critical industry issues, including:

The rise of agentic trade and its implications for travel

The influence of social and creator driven demand

As personalization, payment and platforms converge, loyalty is evolving.

Digital identity, privacy and trust in an AI-driven environment

Overtourism, sustainability, and destination strategy

Phocuswright research sessions deliver new insights on European consumers and startups, as well as tours & Activities.

Interactive sessions and case studies focusing on practical application and implementation

In addition to its on-stage programming, Phocuswright Europe is known for fostering meaningful connections among decision-makers, providing attendees with opportunities to engage directly with peers, partners and competitors.As the industry continues to navigate rapid technological change and shifting consumer expectations, the conference serves as a critical forum for leaders to share strategies, evaluate emerging trends and identify opportunities for growth.Phocuswright Europe 2026 will take place in Barcelona, bringing together a global audience of travel executives and innovators.To explore the full program and learn more, visit: https://www.phocuswrighteurope.com/Program/All-Sessions

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The Guatemala Tourism Institute has launched Guatemala Insider. This new online training platform is available to travel agents and advisors. The platform was developed in partnership with Equator and Travel Uni to help travel professionals confidently sell Guatemala to their clients. Participants can test their expertise and gain practical insights to create unforgettable itineraries. This initiative is a first for INGUAT, and marks an important step towards raising awareness of Guatemala in the travel trade worldwide. The platform’s interactive AI chatbot is a key feature. It allows partners to ask questions regarding travel to Guatemala and uncover deeper insights. It also generates tailored itinerary ideas for clients who are interested in active adventure or culturally immersive trips. Claudia Coronado is the Head of Operations and marketing Department at INGUAT. She says: “Guatemala Insider is a significant milestone for INGUAT. It gives travel professionals a way to understand and sell our destination in a fun and interactive manner. Through the platform, travel professionals can explore our rich culture, vibrant communities and breathtaking landscapes. We are proud to introduce a tool that showcases the best of our country and inspires more travellers to discover what makes Guatemala truly unforgettable. We are proud to introduce a tool that showcases the very best of our country and inspires more travellers to discover what makes Guatemala truly unforgettable.”Partners who complete the course by 30th May 2026 (23:59 GMT) will be entered into a prize draw to win a six-night trip for two to Guatemala. The prize includes international flights, domestic flights, accommodations, activities, and transfers. One winner will be chosen from among eligible participants in the UK, Ireland Spain, Mexico Germany Austria Switzerland Canada and the US. The prize can be redeemed from 30th July 2026, with flight requests to be submitted at least one month prior to travel.The Guatemala Insider programme can be found here: https://www.guatemalainsider.com

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Holland America Line celebrated its 153rd Anniversary by naming its new signature tulip “Savour the Journey”. The ceremony took place at the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, in the Netherlands. The vibrant orange flower is a symbol of Holland America Line’s Dutch heritage, and its long-standing ties with Dutch culture, craftsmanship, and tradition.

The Savour the Journey Tulip, cultivated by KP de Geus and Maveridge International exclusively to represent Holland America Line, embodies the qualities that have long been associated with the brand, including elegance, warmth, attention to detail, and hospitality. Its vibrant orange petals and glowing centre embody tradition and vitality. They also echo the enduring relationship between Holland America Line, the Netherlands and its rich horticultural heritage.

“Our Dutch heritage is at the core of who we are and naming the Savour the Journey Keukenhof tulip is a meaningful expression,” said Nico Bleichrodt. Vice president, International Sales and Marketing, Holland America Line. “We are grateful for the chance to name this tulip, and for the care that went into its creation. It reflects our brand’s sense of purpose and how we invite our guests to experience the World.

The tulip’s official name was announced at a Keukenhof ceremony that brought together Holland America Line leaders and partners, as well as guests to celebrate the moment. The event traced Holland America Line’s year-long search for and adoption of the new tulip. It also highlighted the cruise line’s longstanding relationship and Dutch heritage with Keukenhof. The program culminated with a live sand art performance that revealed the name of the tulip, Savour the Journey. This was followed by the official dedication led by Captains Eric Barhorst, Jeroen Bajens, KP de Geus and Olympic medallist Joy Beune. The celebration culminated with a Champagne reception in the gardens.

Joy Beune, an Olympic medalist and one of the Netherlands most celebrated speedskaters brings a deep connection to the moment. Beune, a proud Dutch athlete and partner with Holland America Line, has been a part of the cruise line since 2025. She embodies its spirit of excellence, heritage, and forward momentum. Holland America Line has extended the maritime tradition of naming and welcoming ships into service with godparents to its signature tulip. Beune’s role of godmother for the Savour the Journey Tulip reflects the brand’s seafaring heritage while celebrating modern expressions Dutch culture.

Joy Beune said, “It is a special honor to be the godmother of this tulip.” “There’s no Dutcher than tulips or speed skating – both are part our national identity.” Holland America Line’s Dutch heritage is being celebrated in a meaningful manner. ‘Savour the Journey,’ which reflects my own mindset, is a great way to do this.

Holland America Line took part in the Bloemencorso Bollenstreek Flower Parade, which attracts around one million visitors every year. The cruise line participated in the parade for the first time in 1948, when it was first invited to celebrate its role in transporting tulips to the US. This year’s return is a continuation of a long-standing tradition.

Ferry Huurman is the director of operations at Keukenhof. “We are honored to continue our longstanding partnership with Holland America Line,” he said. “Flowers and tulips are deeply rooted into Dutch tradition. We always enjoy welcoming a new flower to our gardens. This celebration symbolises our shared Dutch heritage and the joy that tulips can bring to visitors around the world.

Holland America Line’s Dutch heritage continues today to shape the guest experience, especially on its Northern Europe Cruises departing from Amsterdam, Dover, and Rotterdam. The cruise line’s roots are brought to life on every journey, from Dutch Day celebrations aboard to regionally-inspired cuisine and enrichment. Cruise guests can explore the most historic ports of Northern Europe while sailing on selected Northern Europe itineraries. Itineraries include

* 7-Day Viking Trails and Celtic Origins: Edinburgh Evening Stay on June 14, 2026, Reykjavik – Rotterdam

* 14-Day Baltic and Scandinavian Capitals, 26 or 27 June 2026 — Roundtrip From Rotterdam or Dover

* 7-Day Norwegian Fjords & Hidden Gems, Sept. 5, 2026 — Amsterdam to Rotterdam

* 13-Day Fjords Tour of Norway, Sept. 19 2026 — Rotterdam – Dover

* 15-Day Arctic Journey and Northern Lights — Dover to Rotterdam, Oct. 15, 2020

* 7-Day Norwegian fjords and Sognefjord, 8 May 2027 — Roundtrip From Amsterdam

Consult a travel agent for more information or to book a Holland America Line cruise.