Accor to open new-build Sebel hotel in Parramatta in August 2026

Accor will open The Sebel Sydney Parramatta in August 2026, adding a 51-suite extended-stay hotel to its Western Sydney portfolio.

AUKO: Vietnam eco-wellness lodge project to open in Phong Nha in 2026

A new eco-wellness retreat is due to open in Vietnam’s Phong Nha–Ke Bang UNESCO World Heritage area in the third quarter of 2026, targeting growing demand for nature-based and wellness tourism in Southeast Asia.

The Oscar Seppeltsfield: Barossa’s bold bid for a new luxury landmark

The Barossa has never been short of icons. Its old vines, bluestone wineries, palm-lined roads and cellar doors have long made it one of Australia’s most recognisable wine regions. Now, one of its most ambitious tourism proposals, The Oscar Seppeltsfield, has been pitched as the next major step in lifting the region’s luxury accommodation credentials.

Budget Cuts Raise Concerns for Australia’s Inbound Tourism Recovery

The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has criticised the Federal Budget, warning that reduced tourism funding and higher travel costs could undermine Australia’s international tourism recovery at a time of growing global uncertainty.

ATEC said the decision to cut more than $50 million from Tourism Australia’s budget over the next four years, combined with a further $10 increase to the Passenger Movement Charge, sends the wrong message to an industry worth around $40 billion in export value.

Intrepid Expands Beyond Tours With Launch of “Stay Intrepid” Accommodation Brand

Melbourne-based Intrepid Travel has unveiled “Stay Intrepid”, a new accommodation platform aimed at extending the company’s push into experience-led hospitality and immersive travel stays.

Hiking Japan's Pilgrimage Routes Is The Therapy We All Need Right Now

Japan’s Shikoku Ohenro Pilgrimage, a 1,400km route linking 88 Buddhist temples, is attracting a growing number of international visitors as interest in wellness and experience-led travel rises.

Indonesia Travel Safety: Low Crime, Higher Everyday Risks

Indonesia remains a safe destination for most visitors, but travellers are urged to stay alert to petty crime, road dangers and natural hazards across the archipelago. Based on guidance from World Nomads.

Indonesia remains a broadly safe and stable destination for travellers, but experts caution that visitors must navigate a range of environmental and everyday risks to ensure a trouble-free trip.