As the Caribbean’s cruise industry gathers in Jamaica this October, the Port Authority of Jamaica arrives with an extraordinary hat-trick of nominations — recognition of an island whose relationship with the sea has become one of the great success stories of Caribbean tourism. There are few more evocative ways to arrive in Jamaica than by sea. Long before the first glimpse of the island’s green mountains comes into view, there is the anticipation: turquoise water stretching towards the horizon, the promise of reggae, rum, warm hospitality and that unmistakable Jamaican rhythm waiting on shore.

As the aviation industry gathered at the Farnborough International Airshow, artificial intelligence, connected data and modern retailing were high on the agenda as airlines looked to improve both operations and the passenger experience. In this interview with BTN, Balaji Bashyam, Chief Strategy Officer, Airlines, Travel & Transportation at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), explores how AI could help airlines anticipate and manage disruption, deliver more personalised and connected journeys, and give frontline teams better tools to support passengers when it matters most. He also discusses TCS’ strategic partnership with Amadeus, the industry’s shift towards Offer and Order models, and how platforms such as TCS Aviana are helping airlines bring together fragmented operational data. Looking ahead, Bashyam considers what the next five years of aviation technology could mean for airlines, employees and passengers, and how industry leaders can prepare for a more intelligent, connected travel ecosystem.

Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa, announces the appointment of Rob Kucera as Regional Vice President for East & South Africa. Based in Nairobi, Rob joins Aleph Hospitality as the company continues to expand its regional presence and grow its hotel portfolio across the continent. In his new role, Rob will oversee the operation of 25+ hotels, six brands in 20 destinations across nine countries in East and South Africa. He will also lead the development of future hotels for the group, growing Aleph Hospitality’s portfolio in the region. Rob’s mandate includes driving the region’s financial, commercial and operational performance, strengthening relationships with the hotel owners, overseeing regional HR to grow talent and build high performing teams, while driving investment in the communities surrounding each of the group’s hotels

IHG One Rewards, the global loyalty programme of IHG Hotels & Resorts, today announced a partnership with Live Nation Asia across the Greater China region, bringing together hospitality with live entertainment. As part of this, new and existing IHG One Rewards members will have access to exclusive travel experiences in Hong Kong and Taiwan markets that pair stays at IHG Hotels & Resorts with select concerts, along with member-exclusive ticket giveaways and promotions across IHG One Rewards platforms and social media channels.

Hilton Istanbul Airport opens its doors today, redefining the airport hospitality experience by combining the convenience of an airport location with Hilton’s iconic hospitality. The 485-room hotel is the latest addition to the growing Hilton Hotels & Resorts portfolio, marking the 100th Hilton hotel in Türkiye, and is ideally positioned as the first internationally branded hotel next to the airport grounds in Türkiye.

Back by popular demand, Niva Kuramathi Maldives – available exclusively through Kuoni in the UK – is thrilled to announce the return of Campioni Soccer Academy for 2027. Taking place over Easter ‘27 and Summer ‘27, the football camp for boys and girls of all abilities aged 4–16 promises an unforgettable island escape, with memories for the whole family and a truly exclusive experience for children.

This autumn, experience a taste of Bavaria in the Texas Hill Country as Fredericksburg hosts its annual Oktoberfest, returning Friday, 2 October – Sunday, 4 October 2026, to the historic Marktplatz. Built on more than four decades of tradition, Oktoberfest brings a three-day Texas taste of German heritage including music, food and dancing to the heart of Fredericksburg. It remains one of the region’s most beloved community events, blending authentic German customs with Texas hospitality. The festival offers flexible single-day and multi-day passes for adults, with discounted admission for children aged 12 and under and free entry for children under 6.