It’s beginning to look a lot like the holiday season in the nation’s capital, where beloved local traditions, blocks-long holiday markets, unique seasonal displays and cheerful décor combine to create the ultimate winter getaway. Dynamic new attractions, cozy restaurants, inventive bars and major sporting events give travelers even more reasons to visit. Discover the value of visiting in wintertime and start planning at washington.org/winter.

British tourism to Brazil is booming, with visitor arrivals climbing 11.33% between January and September 2026 to reach 148,429 (up from 133,328 in 2025). Riding this wave of momentum, Brazil arrives at WTM London (3–5 November) with a strategic programme built to drive even higher numbers for 2027. The Brazilian pavilion will immerse the international travel trade in the country’s unmistakable energy, blending rich culture, sporting passion, and a famous way of life shared across its tables, beaches, streets, and stadiums.

Travelsoft Pay, the payment technology company of Travelsoft, is now integrated into six of the group’s travel technology platforms. Travel agencies, tour operators and other travel businesses using these platforms can switch Travelsoft Pay on without a separate integration project of their own.

Holidaymakers can save on more than 75 departures across river cruises, European tours, ocean cruises and worldwide holidays Riviera Travel has launched its Black Friday sale, offering savings of up to 20% on selected 2027 holidays. The sale includes 4,000 places across more than 75 departure dates, with savings available across Riviera Holidays. The offer is available on new bookings made by UK and Ireland customers until 30 November 2026, subject to availability.

Viking®  announced that its new 19-day Grand Nile Journey itinerary exploring Egypt is now open for booking. With departures beginning in 2028, the new itinerary offers Viking’s most in-depth exploration of Egypt to date, featuring four hotel nights in Egypt’s capital and a 14-night sailing between Cairo and Aswan on board the all-suite Viking Ra. Guests will discover the country’s renowned landmarks alongside lesser-visited archaeological sites and communities in Middle Egypt, gaining a deeper understanding of the history, culture and traditions that have shaped life along the Nile.

a&o Hostels, Europe’s largest hostel chain, has appointed Gernot Porcher as its new Senior Vice President of Construction. In his new role, Porcher will oversee the planning, construction and maintenance of the company’s growing European portfolio.

Cheval Collection has unveiled a stunning, 4,200 square foot penthouse at Cheval Maison The Palm Dubai, taking luxury living to new heights at its award-winning, flagship property in the Middle East. The 3-bedroom penthouse – refurbished and upgraded to offer the ultimate in high-end, home-from-home living – boasts exquisite views across Palm Jumeirah, extensive indoor and outdoor space, and high-end fixtures, fittings and furniture throughout.