The property has grown from four bedrooms to five, with capacity now at a maximum of 10 adults and two children under 16. The new, east-facing fifth bedroom features air conditioning, a private terrace, and an outdoor shower. The existing lounge has been extended to include a dedicated TV room and library, anchored by a dramatic 2.4-metre Farooo lamp by celebrated Dutch designer Marcel Wanders for Moooi, a striking centrepiece that sets the tone for the refreshed interior throughout. The current kids’ room now features two proper single beds, and a second rooftop terrace on the west side of the upstairs bar offers dedicated sunset views.

Commissioned to reimagine the interiors were Guus and Fenny Koevoets of Vervoort Living, a Netherlands-based studio with an international portfolio spanning hotels and restaurants worldwide. Rooted in a hospitality-focused background, their overarching design philosophy holds that hospitality sits at the core of all human environments – a belief that translates instinctively into spaces that feel as considered as they are beautiful. Their design direction for Morukuru Ocean House introduces a more Scandinavian minimalistic style in soft beige and blue tones – a palette drawn directly from De Hoop Nature Reserve’s beaches, ocean, and fynbos landscape. Layered textures and tonal depth bring warmth to the spaces, while selected works by South African artist Lionel Smith are positioned throughout the house, deepening the sense of place across all five bedrooms, as well as the living and dining areas.

“Morukuru Ocean House has always been somewhere special. A place where families come to truly exhale. This refurbishment is about honouring that feeling while elevating every detail of the experience. We can’t wait for our guests to discover it,” said Ed Zeeman, Co-founder and Co-owner of Morukuru Family.

Co-founder and Co-owner Anka Zeeman added: “Working with Guus and Fenny has been a joy. They understand intuitively how a space should feel, not just how it should look and they moved to a calmer and more minimalistic, kind of Scandinavian design style, which deeply connects with its surroundings and emphasises the extraordinary location of this special off grid house.”

Morukuru Ocean House remains exclusive use only. Rates are unchanged despite the additional bedroom and wider enhancements. Trade partners should note that the minimum stay requirement at Morukuru Family De Hoop during peak season 2027 has been revised to three nights.

For bookings, prospective guests can contact their preferred travel advisor or get in touch with Morukuru Family directly via reservations@morukuru.com. Ts & Cs apply.

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For more information, contact Sales & Marketing Director, Rinse Wassenaar: rinse@morukuru.com

Morukuru Family

Reconnecting family, friends, nature, and you, is the promise of Morukuru Family, a renowned award-winning hospitality group and a member of Relais & Châteaux. Morukuru Family’s three exclusive-use houses in Madikwe Game Reserve as well as Morukuru Ocean House in De Hoop Nature Reserve, each offer the ‘Morukuru Freedom Concept’ for guests to create a unique and personalised holiday. Morukuru Beach Lodge in De Hoop Nature Reserve can be booked per suite, or on an exclusive-use basis. AtholPlace Hotel & Villa in Sandton, Johannesburg, consists of a 9-room boutique hotel and a 4-bedroom private villa. Morukuru Family is dedicated to securing a sustainable future for the reserves and protecting our planet and offer specialised travel packages – Safaris with a Purpose and Coastal Conservation with a Purpose.
www.morukuru.com

Morukuru Goodwill Foundation

Morukuru Family’s commitment to conservation, community, and sustainability led to the establishment of Morukuru Goodwill Foundation in 2007 by owners Ed and Anka Zeeman. Working in partnership with the Parks Board and CapeNature, and together with local communities we support nature-based projects, educate, mentor and ultimately empower the conservation of Africa’s wildlife sanctuaries.
https://morukuru.com/morukuru-goodwill-foundation

Relais & Châteaux

Relais & Châteaux is an exceptional worldwide collection of 580 unique, independently operated hotels and restaurants, united by strong values and a devotion to excellence across every aspect of hospitality.  Originating in France in 1954, and now present in 65 countries, the Association works to celebrate the distinct art de vivre of every global destination. Led by passionate hoteliers, chefs and restaurateurs, each of its properties cultivates a meaningful sense of place by nurturing its individual cultural, gastronomic and environmental heritage and collaborating with local artisans.  With many of its properties run by families, who pass their savoir-faire down from one generation to the next, Relais & Châteaux represents an evolving legacy of memorable travel experiences, in harmony with all life on Earth. 
www.relaischateaux.com

– Renderings of the Reimagined Spaces Aboard Norwegian Aura are Available for Download HERE –

Norwegian Cruise Line^® (NCL), the industry leader in delivering freedom and choice in experiences with uncompromising hospitality, today revealed the new standout wellness and dining offerings coming to Norwegian Aura, its largest ship to date and the newest evolution of the award-winning Prima Plus Class, designed to give every guest the freedom and choice to vacation exactly how they want without compromise.

Guided by guest feedback and NCL’s brand promise that the best vacation is one where no one has to settle for less than the experiences they want most, Norwegian Aura will introduce more of what guests love to create unforgettable moments for families, couples, solo travellers and everyone in between. Additions include the industry’s most expansive Thermal Suite, featuring 15 wellness experiences designed for relaxation, recovery and rejuvenation; as well as Tamara, NCL’s first specialty restaurant dedicated to Indian cuisine and The Panorama Room, an immersive reimagining of complimentary dining at sea. Throughout the ship, favourite restaurants, bars and lounges have also been redesigned and repositioned to create more space and inviting places to gather with the ease to move from one experience to the next.

“Norwegian Aura is all about giving guests more of what they love, with spaces and experiences that make vacation feel even easier,” said Gary Anslow, Vice President UK, Ireland, Middle East and Africa, Norwegian Cruise Line. “From Tamara, our new Indian specialty restaurant, which expands the already guest-favourite eatery in Indulge to an elevated culinary offering; to The Panorama Room’s immersive dining experience and our most expansive Thermal Suite to date, every addition has been purposefully designed to give guests more freedom, choice and opportunities to relax, recharge and enjoy their vacation their way, without compromise.”

A New Era of Wellness at Sea

Spanning two decks, the Mandara Spa, beautifully designed by the Rockwell Group, will utilize the restorative power of nature to create an expansive wellness sanctuary, with spaces and experiences inspired by forest canopies, cave-like retreats, cascading waterfalls and the rhythms of nature.

At the heart of the experience is the industry’s most expansive Thermal Suite, offering 15 wellness amenities, including 11 new experiences, built around the principles of contrast therapy. Guests can move between warm and cool spaces, water features and quiet lounges to create their own relaxation routine, whether they want to unwind after a day ashore, recover from travel or simply enjoy a slower moment at sea.

Among the signature experiences is the Sensory Rain Pool, the first of its kind at sea. This immersive 360-degree experience transforms from calm waters to a tropical rainfall and eventually a dramatic thunderstorm, complete with simulated lightning effects and the sounds of rolling thunder, surrounding guests by nature in an unforgettable way.

Supporting the Thermal Suite’s contrast therapy journey are several new water and thermal offerings, including a Blue Glow Suite, a gentle blue light experience designed to encourage relaxation and support post-travel recovery; a dedicated Foot Spa, to soothe and refresh tired feet and muscles; the Waterfall Experience, where guests can unwind as water cascades over their head and shoulders; a Snow Cave, with rugged, rock-like walls layered with fresh powder white snow whose cold therapy benefits have been known to support the effects of inflammation; a Reflection Pool with panoramic sea views; and guided Hot and Cold Plunge experiences.

Guests can also enjoy a variety of dedicated relaxation spaces throughout the spa, including a Salt Room, the Meditation Lounge, an Aromatic Steam Room, a Finnish Sauna, a Charcoal Sauna and a Zen Lounge.

The spa also features 24 treatment rooms, a full-service salon, Skin Lab, and expanded medi-spa services with IV therapy, NAD+ injections (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) to support energy and overall vitality, with acupuncture also available. Additionally, the facility will include a state-of-the-art fitness center with dedicated training studios and wellness programming.

New Dining Experiences Plus Expanded Guest Favourites

Continuing NCL’s commitment to delivering more choice and variety, Norwegian Aura’s culinary program includes 22 food and beverage options spanning over 10 distinct cuisines. The offerings on board have been thoughtfully designed so guests can dine how they want, whether seeking a relaxed meal with family, a standout specialty experience or a new global flavour to discover at sea.

Making its debut aboard Norwegian Aura, Tamara will become NCL’s first specialty restaurant dedicated to Indian cuisine. Inspired by the overwhelming popularity of the Indian offerings introduced at Indulge Food Hall with the launch of the Prima Class ships, the new venue elevates those guest-favourite flavours into a dedicated dining experience featuring authentic regional dishes in a sophisticated setting inspired by the architecture and craftsmanship of North Indian temples and courtyards.

Located on Deck 8, Tamara’s design incorporates warm earth tones, intricate detailing and an open-view kitchen anchored by striking tandoor ovens, creating an inviting atmosphere that celebrates both culinary tradition and contemporary dining. Guests will enjoy authentic flavours with dishes like Short-Rib Dosa, a crisp rice-lentil crepe with tomato sambar, fenugreek and coconut chutney; Lamb Biryani, with basmati rice, warm spices and caramelised onions; and a Green Papaya Salad, tossed tableside with pomegranate, tamarind, peanuts, jaggery and chili.  

Also new to Norwegian Aura is The Panorama Room, a completely reimagined complimentary dining experience that transforms traditional main dining through immersive visual technology. Located on Deck 6, the venue features expansive LED displays, multi-channel audio, synchronised lighting and dynamic visuals that evolve throughout the day and evening, transporting guests through ever-changing landscapes, artwork and scenic environments as they dine. Additionally, Hudson’s, the signature main dining room renowned for its sweeping 270-degree ocean views, will debut an elevated new design.

Beyond introducing new concepts, Norwegian Aura’s restaurant collection has been thoughtfully reconfigured for more comfort, easier access between venues and to create additional seating in some of the ship’s most popular venues. On Deck 7, guests will find Le Bistro, featuring a new design with uninterrupted ocean views, where they can enjoy timeless French cuisine; as well as Sukhothai, showcasing a refreshed design that celebrates the culture, craftsmanship and flavours of Thailand. Palomar, offering Mediterranean fare, and the Italian Onda by Scarpetta will be located on Deck 8, where the venues will benefit from expanded seating and a new aesthetic. Cagney’s Steakhouse will also receive a sophisticated redesign, pairing rich and dark colours with the classic atmosphere of a modern steakhouse. The popular Japanese specialty restaurants, Hasuki for hibachi and Nama for sushi, will also return with new decor and a lighter colour palette for a welcoming atmosphere.

Additional enhancements include an expanded Surfside Café, which will now span both sides of the vessel to create a more seamless guest experience, and the return of Indulge Food Hall, featuring nine globally inspired stations. Building on the popularity of NCL’s culinary portfolio in Indulge, guests will enjoy complimentary Mexican favourites inspired by Los Lobos, along with a new Middle Eastern concept and returning favourites including Q Texas Smokehouse, Planterie and Nudls. The Local Bar & Grill is another returning guest favourite, offering an additional complimentary dining option featuring classic pub fare nearly all day.

Guests staying at The Haven, the keycard-access only luxury complex, will enjoy a newly designed The Haven Bar and Lounge and The Haven Restaurant. Studio DADO, longtime partners of Norwegian Cruise Line, designed the private lounge, restaurant and outdoor deck to emulate a tranquil oasis that immerses guests into the world’s natural beauty with earth tones, a lush canopy of trees and delicate finishes.

More Room to Relax, Gather and Explore

Throughout Norwegian Aura, public spaces have been refreshed to feel more open, comfortable and connected, reflecting NCL’s signature hospitality with more room for guests to gather, relax and move naturally from one experience to the next on their own terms.

Bars and lounges across the ship will feature refreshed interiors and expanded layouts, including a larger Penrose Bar & Atrium with more than double the seating and a dedicated stage for daily entertainment. Guests will also enjoy the Metropolitan Bar, known for its award-winning sustainable cocktail menu; the intimate Swirl Wine Bar, a contemporary wine lounge; Belvedere Bar and Whiskey Bar, all redesigned to create more open and inviting environments for guests to gather, socialise and enjoy the ship’s vibrant onboard atmosphere. Overlooking the pool on Deck 18, the Daybreak Bar features beautiful vibrant colours and will be the perfect spot to feel a part of the action. The updates are designed to make it easier for guests to find their favourite spot, meet up with friends and enjoy the ship’s lively atmosphere from day to night.

Adventure, Action and Family Fun Awaits Aboard Nowegian Aura

Norwegian Aura will also feature Ocean Heights, the ultimate hub for fun, action and relaxation for the entire family, giving parents and kids more ways to spend quality time together without sacrificing the moments of adult enjoyment that make a vacation feel complete. The sprawling activity zone will combine brand-new NCL attractions with reimagined favourites, transforming from day to night using immersive lighting and LED projections. Adventure seekers will enjoy six slides, the 82-foot Aura Ropes Course, a multi-level obstacle course, Moon Climber, and Aura Midway featuring carnival-style games and a nine-hole mini golf course. For those looking to slow down, guests can relax at NCL’s first-ever overhanging cabanas overlooking Vibe Beach Club, and enjoy a dedicated bar.

NCL’s newest vessel will first set sail in Europe with a seven-day Mediterranean voyage from Trieste, Italy to Barcelona, Spain on May 21, 2027, followed by a 13-day transatlantic voyage to Miami. In the summer of 2027 as well as the summer of 2028, Norwegian Aura will sail seven-day Eastern Caribbean voyages with calls to sun-soaked island destinations, including Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and the Brand’s newly enhanced private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. In winter 2027/28, Norwegian Aura will offer week-long Western Caribbean voyages taking guests to lush, tropical destinations like Roatan (Islas de la Bahia), Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; as well as Harvest Caye, NCL’s resort-style private destination off the Belizean coast.

For more information about the Company’s award-winning 21-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call +27 087 550 3914 or visit www.ncl.com.

Norwegian Cruise Line^® (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, has unveiled photos of reimagined spaces and additions to Norwegian Jade^® and Norwegian Gem^®, including the brand-new adults-only Vibe Beach Club and an enhanced Thermal Suite in the award-winning Mandara Spa and Salon.

“Listening to our guests and delivering exceptional experiences across our fleet is at the heart of what we do,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “These recent transformations bring some of our most beloved amenities to Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem, creating greater consistency across our fleet while giving guests more ways to personalise their vacation — from adults-only outdoor spaces to serene relaxation areas designed to help them unwind at sea.”

Expanded Thermal Suite Experiences at Mandara Spa & Salon

Redesigned with guest feedback in mind, the refreshed Thermal Suite aboard Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem now feature three times as many of the popular hot tile loungers, a more centralised layout with an upgraded reception area, updated steam rooms and saunas, and new relaxing and reinvigorating experiences, including:

• A Charcoal Sauna thatutilises a radiant heat system with an outer charcoal layer with potential benefits of boosting circulation and releasing toxins from the body. Its warming properties reduce muscle stiffness and tension.
• An Ice Room with cold air invigorates the respiratory tract.
• The Salt Room benefitsskin health and induces deep relaxation.
• An IV Lounge, which has become an increasingly popular treatment to quickly deliver essential nutrients to the body.
• Four-Senses Loungers providethe ultimate sensory experience for deep relaxation and tranquility.

Additionally, Norwegian Jade offers brand-new Experiential Showers, featuring multiple water jets and lighting effects to help invigorate the body, as well as a Plunge Pool for brief cold-water immersion to accelerate muscle recovery, boost circulation and leave guests feeling refreshed and revitalised.  Norwegian Gem provides an updated hot tub and Thalassotherapy pool which uses massage jets, bubble loungers and countercurrents to detoxify the body and soothe joint pain.

Debut of Popular Adults-Only Vibe Beach Club & Starbucks

Both Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem now provide an adults-only respite with the guest-favourite Vibe Beach Club, repurposing the existing sundeck on deck 14. This exclusive outdoor oasis offers expansive ocean views, a private full-service bar, an additional hot tub, over 50 premium lounge chairs and seven new private cabanas for guests to unwind in style.

As the first in the cruise industry to offer the world’s most recognised coffee brand – Starbucks^® – across its entire fleet and private destinations, NCL adds an all-new licensed store aboard Norwegian Jade, making it easy for guests to enjoy the same favourite hot and cold handcrafted beverages, seasonal blends and sweet and savory food items as they do at their neighborhood store.   

Summer Escapes to Europe and Alaska

Now through late summer 2026, Norwegian Jade offers a series of seven-day sailings from Vancouver, British Columbia and Whittier (Anchorage), Alaska with scenic cruising through the Inside Passage and glacier regions, as well as visits to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point, Alaska. Meanwhile, aboard Norwegian Gem, guests can dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of the Mediterranean and Greek Isles on a variety of voyages departing from Rome (Civitavecchia) or Venice (Ravenna), Italy while visiting ports such as Cannes, France; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Split and Dubrovnik, Croatia; and some of the most sought-after islands in Greece. As the year progresses into late 2026, Norwegian Gem offers fun-in-sun cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas from Tampa, Fla., while Norwegian Jade returns to Asia for immersive, bucket-list worthy voyages.

For more information about the Company’s award-winning fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call +27 087 550 3914 or visit www.ncl.com.

Presented annually by Travel + Leisure, the Luxury Awards Asia Pacific honours the region’s most outstanding hotels, resorts, destinations and travel experiences, as voted by the publication’s discerning readers. 

Nestled within the South Ari Atoll Marine Protected Area – the only year-round whale shark aggregation site in the world, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers a distinctive interpretation of contemporary island luxury, where thoughtful hospitality, immersive experiences and meaningful connections with nature come together to create memorable stays for guests of all ages.

The awards celebrate the diversity of experiences that define the resort, from thoughtfully curated family moments and two expansive swimming pools overlooking the Indian Ocean to direct access to a vibrant house reef, where guests can discover extraordinary marine life in one of the world’s most remarkable underwater environments. 

Spanning a two-kilometre-long island, LUX* South Ari Atoll offers 192 beach and overwater villas and pavilions designed for couples, families and multi-generational travellers. The resort’s newest accommodation category, the Temptation Beach Pool Villa, features generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, a private pool and beach access.

For families, the resort offers a wide range of activities across the island, including the PLAY kids’ club, a dedicated programme for teenagers, island treasure hunts, creative workshops and marine-based experiences. Guests can also enjoy 40 complimentary activities during their stay, offering a varied programme of leisure, wellness, sports and discovery.

The resort features eight restaurants and five bars, with dining concepts ranging from Italian and Japanese cuisine to Indian Ocean flavours and international menus. Its award-winning LUX* ME Spa offers personalised treatments, wellness rituals and holistic therapies, complemented by the LUX* curated healthy cuisine – Keen On Green. 

As an eco-luxury resort that focuses on sustainability, guided snorkelling and diving experiences, marine conservation initiatives and signature LUX* Extraordinary Experiences, such as Swimming with Whale Sharks, allow guests to experience unique year-round whale shark encounters and to explore one of the Maldives’ most notable marine ecosystems. 

General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll John Rogers said: “We are truly honoured to be voted once again by the readers of Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia across three award categories that reflect the diverse experiences we offer. These recognitions are testament to the passion and dedication of our team and our continued commitment to creating extraordinary experiences that help our guests celebrate life.”

These recognitions further strengthen LUX* South Ari Atoll’s reputation as Maldives’ leading luxury island resort, steeped in distinctive hospitality, exceptional guest experiences and enduring commitment to excellence.

SOUTH AFRICA, 8 July 2026 – Lion Sands Game Reserve has been named the No. 1 Safari Lodge in Africa and the No. 4 Hotel in the World, while Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel has been recognised as the No. 1 City Hotel in Africa and the No. 35 Hotel in the World in the 2026 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards. The awards are widely regarded as one of the most authoritative benchmarks in global travel. The results are featured in the August 2026 issue of Travel + Leisure and are available in full at travelandleisure.com.

Both awards are determined entirely by reader votes, making them a direct reflection of the experiences guests carry home. Lion Sands Game Reserve and Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel are part of MORE Collection, the fourth-generation South African luxury hospitality group, which becomes the first hospitality collection to hold the No. 1 position in both categories in the same year.

“We’re incredibly grateful to every guest who has chosen to stay with us and share their experience. This recognition from Travel + Leisure belongs to every member of our team who shows up for our guests every single day. Lion Sands Game Reserve and Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel are extraordinary places, but it is the people within them who make them what they are. This is their achievement, and we are enormously proud of them,” said Robert More, Custodian and CEO, MORE Collection.

LION SANDS GAME RESERVE | No. 1 Safari Lodge in Africa

Set along 13 miles of the Sabie River, Lion Sands Game Reserve encompasses four lodges – River Lodge, Narina Lodge, Tinga Lodge, and Ivory Lodge – two private villas, and three open-air treehouses perched above the African bush.

Each lodge offers its own character and pace, from the family-friendly warmth of Tinga Lodge to the secluded sophistication of Ivory Lodge, while sharing the same founding philosophy: that a safari should connect guests not just to wildlife, but to the land, the people, and the conservation work that sustains both.

Artist residencies, wildlife photography masterclasses through the Creative Lab, helicopter flights over the Mpumalanga escarpment, and community experiences complete an offering that goes well beyond the traditional safari itinerary.

Both River Lodge and Ivory Lodge offer dedicated kosher kitchens – Ivory’s fully accredited – with Beth Din-certified ingredients and private Mashgiach supervision available.

Across all lodges, Lion Sands accommodates a wide range of dietary requirements, including halal, vegan, and vegetarian, with advance notice.

CAPE CADOGAN BOUTIQUE HOTEL | No. 1 City Hotel in Africa

Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel occupies a restored National Monument on Upper Union Street, in Cape Town’s Kloof Street Neighbourhood, within the suburb of Gardens – a building that dates to the early 1800s and sits within walking distance of the city’s most celebrated restaurants, galleries, and independent boutiques, with Table Mountain rising behind it.

The hotel’s 29 rooms, suites, and private villa, combine heritage architecture with contemporary comfort. The Cape Cadogan Villa offers six guests a fully private experience with a breakfast chef, concierge, and wellness and beauty treatments available on request.

The hotel’s culinary reputation is anchored next door at Upper Union Restaurant, led by Amori Burger, MORE Collection’s Group Executive Chef. Her seasonally driven menu draws hotel guests and neighbourhood locals in equal measure, earning a 2025 Eat Out Woolworths One Star and the Culinary Rising Star Award. Burger’s culinary standards and training extend across the group, shaping the food philosophy at the kitchens of MORE Collection’s safari lodges as much as Upper Union’s.

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For more information, contact Sue Kelly on pr@more.co.za | www.more.co.za
View Travel + Leisure Top 100 Hotels in the World here.

ABOUT THE TRAVEL + LEISURE WORLD’S BEST AWARDS
Each year, Travel + Leisure recognises the top hotels, islands, cities, cruise lines, airlines, spas, and more around the globe, according to the results of the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2026 readers’ survey. Additional information about methodology and criteria is available at travelandleisure.com/worlds-best/survey-methodology.

ABOUT MORE COLLECTION
MORE Collection is a fourth-generation South African hospitality company with a portfolio of luxury safari lodges, boutique hotels and exclusive-use villas across some of the country’s most remarkable destinations. Rooted in a family legacy that began in 1933, the business has evolved from protecting a single stretch of wilderness into a collection shaped by people, place and genuine hospitality.
Today, MORE Collection’s purpose – Great People. Strong Connections. – reflects its belief that exceptional hospitality begins with the relationships between guests, teams, communities and the natural environments that surround them. Across Lion Sands Game Reserve, Marataba Game Lodges, Monwana Game Lodge and Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel, every stay is guided by thoughtful hospitality, a deep respect for place, and a commitment to creating meaningful experiences that endure long after guests leave.

The boutique travel event, held at the Norval Foundation in Cape Town, recorded a 37% increase in attendance compared to 2025, with 87% of buyers attending for the first time, drawn from 32 countries. Appointments increased by 29% year-on-year, reflecting a surge in commercial intent from luxury buyers actively seeking African experiences.

The results are striking given the broader context of global uncertainty. According to the newly released State of African Tourism 2026 report, the continent is successfully “selling certainty in an anxious world.” Because high-end safaris and luxury itineraries are typically booked 12 to 18 months in advance, and demand for established destinations remains resolute, the region’s tourism industry is not expected to be materially affected by ongoing disruptions in the Middle East. Instead, discerning luxury travellers are increasingly looking to Africa not as an alternative, but as a trusted destination of first choice.

Africa’s hotel development pipeline tells its own story: with 55% of the entire continental pipeline currently under construction, investor confidence in African luxury hospitality is at an historic high. The infrastructure is being built, and ILTM Africa’s record buyer numbers suggest the demand is ready to meet it.

The 87% new buyer figure is perhaps the most telling statistic of all. As the State of African Tourism report highlights, the post-pandemic “revenge travel” wave has crashed, replaced by a more informed, discerning traveller for whom trust is the new currency. This influx of new buyers suggests that ILTM Africa is actively converting these new markets, translating directly into fresh commercial pipelines and relationships for exhibitors that did not exist twelve months ago.

Carol Weaving, Managing Director of RX Africa, the organiser behind ILTM Africa, noted: “The travel sector has always been a people industry selling high-value, high-stakes experiences. Africa Travel Week has evolved into a powerful in-person event where technology handles the heavy lifting, and humans focus on the relationship building that defines this industry.”

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Issued by: Big Ambitions 

Contact: Sonnette Fourie

Tel: +27 81 072 2869 

Email: sonnette@bigambitions.co.za 

ABOUT:

ILTM Africa gives leaders in the African luxury travel market every opportunity to re-connect, build relationships and grow their business. An invitation-only event, the very best travel agents from across the globe meet Africa’s most spectacular luxury travel experience providers.

Next event: 10 to 12 April 2026 – Norval Foundation, Cape Town https://www.iltm.com/africa/en-gb.html

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2025, WTM Africa facilitated more than 60 000 appointment request from 70 countries with a 30% increase in exhibitors from 2024.

Next event: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town http://africa.wtm.com/

ATW Connect:  Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel, LGBTQ+ travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology.
https://atwconnect.com/

RX: is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people.  RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com. 

 
RELX: is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.

*Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

The Group’s flagship brand, LUX Resorts & Hotels, received the prestigious Travel d’Or (Best Hospitality Group) Award,* distinguishing it as a leading hospitality group beloved by French consumers. Now in its 17th edition, the annual Travel d’Or Awards are an esteemed benchmark of public trust in France. They celebrate leaders in the tourism industry, based on rigorous criteria including brand awareness, innovation and overall guest experience, assessed through a customer survey of over 3,500 French travellers conducted by the independent polling institute Discurv, followed by evaluation by an expert jury. This outstanding distinction underscores The Lux Collective’s trendsetting vision to anticipate the evolving expectations of modern travellers, while crafting meaningful and memorable stays.

Ahead of the curve, the iconic LUX* brand stands out with its forward-looking approach to modern luxury, combining wellbeing and sustainability. Set in exceptional destinations, the awe-inspiring properties of LUX* Resorts & Hotels offer a distinctly human and immersive vision of travel. “This recognition is a tremendous source of pride for all our teams,” said Olivier Chavy, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective. “At our flagship LUX* Resorts & Hotels, we are driven by a daily commitment to crafting extraordinary experiences, with people at the heart of everything we do. In an ever-evolving landscape, we are deeply grateful for the trust and support of our valued guests, who inspire us to continually push the boundaries of luxury hospitality.”

The 2026 Travel d’Or accolade follows a series of international distinctions, including the Group’s 2026 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards, further affirming its global influence in redefining contemporary luxury travel. Together, these recognitions position The Lux Collective and its flagship brand, LUX, at the forefront of luxury hospitality*, shaping purpose-led travel experiences across the world’s most exceptional destinations.

To discover Life Extraordinary and explore the Group’s award-winning resorts, please visit the LUX* website.

Uniting influential luxury suppliers and travel buyers from around the world, ILTM Africa 2026 presents a carefully curated programme designed to spark valuable business connections within a deeply immersive environment.

“This year, ILTM Africa welcomes international delegates representing 32 countries, reinforcing its role as the leading meeting place for African luxury travel,” says Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director at RX Africa. “We are excited to return to the iconic Norval Foundation, where art, culture and design intersect to create an inspiring backdrop for business-building and igniting long-term partnerships.”

The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth and Tourism, James Vos, expresses Cape Town’s pride in hosting ILTM Africa as part of the broader Africa Travel Week programme.

“Events like these showcase the best of our destination, our crafts, cultures, communities and cuisine, the authentic ingredients that make Cape Town such a sought-after place to visit. Tourism is a powerful economic driver for our city, with nearly 7% of our workforce employed in the visitor economy, which is why we continue working to connect Cape Town to more source markets and ensure the benefits of tourism are felt throughout our local economy.”

A sensory journey

De Jager emphasises that African storytelling and experiential travel remain central to the three-day programme, with ILTM Africa 2026 showcasing immersive, sensory-led experiences reflecting the evolving expectations of today’s luxury traveller.

“The overall journey for buyers will be seamless and considered, with an initial welcome and transfer to the venue by Jeep Tours and Cape Sidecar Adventures. Upon arrival, the Isibane se Afrika Choir will deliver a musical welcome, capturing the spirit and warmth of the continent,” she adds.

Cape Island will introduce a bespoke ILTM Africa scent, demonstrating the role of scent marketing in strengthening brand recognition and traveller memory. The fragrance will be presented to attendees and incorporated throughout the venue, reinforcing ILTM Africa’s focus on multi-sensory engagement within a luxury business environment.

Wine tourism also takes focus, reflecting growing global interest in immersive, place-based travel experiences. This theme will be explored through a dedicated wine tourism conversation led by The Wine Tourism Conference (WTC), followed by a curated lunch and private wine cellar experience at one of South Africa’s most established wine estates: Klein Constantia Wine Estate.

Conscious luxury

Sustainability is thoughtfully integrated throughout the ILTM Africa experience, with a standout feature being the interactive tactile ‘poke art’ installation by Painted Wolf Wines. This initiative invites attendees to collectively contribute to African wild dog conservation initiatives, further demonstrating how individual contributions come together to create lasting impact.

The Africa Luxury Network Chamber of Commerce and Industries will present a number of distinctive African luxury offerings, including Wazawazi, a sustainable luxury leather brand reflecting African craftsmanship. Additional African-led innovations on display include unique beverages from Kalahari Truffles, plant-based leather alternatives by Holy Kow, and recycled, handmade buyer gifts by The Wren Design.

As host destination partner, Cape Town Tourism will showcase the city’s luxury appeal, reinforcing the region’s status as a world-class events and tourism hub. Vos notes that he and his team will introduce Cape Town’s new Tourism Framework alongside key elements of the This is Cape Town campaign.

“This campaign, implemented by the City’s Tourism and Place Marketing Branch, positions our city across six continents and in 55 cities through targeted campaigns, airline partnerships and city-to-city collaborations. This work is about expanding the tourism value chain and ensuring the entire ecosystem works well, attracting more visitors, encouraging longer stays and strengthening the economic impact of tourism across our city.”

Digital growth at ILTM Africa 2026

2026 also marks a step forward in digital innovation for ILTM Africa, with the launch of a new event app with enhanced lead-generation functionality, making it easier for delegates to maintain and grow connections beyond the show.

ILTM Africa continues to expand its media engagement, with De Jager confirming plans to launch a new luxury magazine in collaboration with Voyages Afrique, in addition to providing media partners with exclusive opportunities to engage with African products, destinations and stories.

“This year, we’ve amplified our mission of seeking new avenues to grow the industry and connect buyers and suppliers beyond the three days of the show,” she explains.

In the lead-up to the 2026 event, ILTM Africa extends its thanks to key partners helping to bring the show to life, including NVD Property & Project Management, The Diamond Works, Cape Sidecar Adventures, Cape Town Tourism, the City of Cape Town, Klein Constantia Wine Estate, and the Norval Foundation.

Further thanks go to Lift for transporting event speakers and buyers around the country, Paper Aeroplane for exclusively creating the programme guide cover artwork, and Reverie Social Table for hosting an exclusive media event in support of the show. Seamless connectivity throughout ILTM Africa and bolt-on Africa Travel Week shows will be supported by Airalo, enhancing the overall delegate experience.

“With its strongest post-Covid line-up, a renewed focus on wine tourism, and an immersive celebration of African luxury, ILTM Africa 2026 promises to be a defining moment for our industry and how we showcase Africa to the world’s high-end travel community,” she concludes.

For more information, please visit the ILTM Africa 2026 website here.

“Mauritius is topping the list for couples keen on a destination wedding,” says Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa. “With all-inclusive resorts delivering excellent value for money, it has everything you and your partner could dream of, and less of the not-so-romantic stuff like long-haul flights and visa applications.”

Here’s everything you need to know about this swoon-worthy destination, straight from those starry-eyed travel specialists at Flight Centre.

First, get your bearings

Zooming into the west side of Mauritius, this region is lovingly known as the ‘sunset coast’, offering a year’s supply of glorious, golden sunsets. It’s a little more relaxed than the north, which is, without a doubt, the island’s livelier heartbeat. The northwest is often considered the sweet spot for honeymooners, with easy access to postcard-perfect beaches dotted around the vibey town of Grand Baie, including La Cuvette, Mont Choisy, and Bain Boeuf.

Looking east, lovebirds will find a softer, more serene rhythm, with tranquil beaches and higher-end resorts made for slow mornings and laidback afternoons. Further south, towering cliffs and lush forests with hidden waterfalls create a dramatic backdrop. “There’s a lot of contrast in the scenery down there, with the south being a little wilder and untouched,” Turner adds.

Where to check in

Solana Beach – This relaxed, four-star, adults-only resort in Belle Mare overlooks one of Mauritius’ most serene lagoons. All rooms are sea-facing and just steps from the beach. They’ll even arrange romantic beach dinners for two.

Good to know: Most non-motorised watersports are included in your stay at resorts like Solana Beach, offering all the fun with minimal impact on marine life.

Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel – Set on a private peninsula up north, this sultry five-star sanctuary is dotted with hidden love nests. Stargaze and snorkel off the exclusive beach just yonder or set sail on a catamaran cruise. Bonus: it’s adults-only.

Good to know: Half-board resort and holiday packages are usually sufficient if you plan to explore the island, while all-inclusive is ideal if you prefer to stay put.

LUX Grand Gaube – This retro-chic, five-star tropical sanctuary occupies its own peninsula in the northwest. Think 13 bars and restaurants for memorable date nights, a top-notch spa, and an adults-only pool for extra privacy.

Good to know: Many spas in Mauritius include access to their facilities with the price of a treatment. It’s best to confirm this before booking.

SALT of Palmar – This chic tropical gem offers a fresh take on the Mauritius honeymoon with sustainability at its heart. Its tucked-away location on the secluded east coast makes it perfect for couples craving absolute privacy.

Good to know: The north and west coasts are generally more sheltered than the south and east when winds pick up between June and August.

LUX Le Morne – This postcard-perfect boutique resort needs little introduction. Hidden at the foot of Le Morne Mountain down south, it features the most jaw-dropping scenery – the kind honeymoon dreams are made of.

Good to know: If you have clear travel dates and a specific resort in mind, booking early is the best way to secure availability.

Beachcomber Mauritius – Beachcomber remains a favourite among South African travellers and it’s easy to see why. Eight beautiful resorts in arguably the best locations on the island, all-inclusive packages and hospitality that can’t be beaten. In fact, first prize in Flight Centre and 947’s “Week of the Wedding Dress” competition is a 7-night stay at Paradis Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa – with 7 nights at Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa for the runner-up.

Good to know: Beachcomber offers honeymoon and “familymoon” packages at each of their resorts – offering plenty of activities for thrill-seekers, sunbathers and sightseers!

Get moving in Mauritius

When you’re finally ready to leave the sun lounger, or even just your private suite, there’s plenty to do together, depending on where you’re staying and what your resort has on offer.

“Mauritius does beach breakfasts, lazy lunches and moonlit dinners exceptionally well,” Turner adds. “But if you’re up for a little adventure, non-motorised watersports such as snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are generally available at most beach resorts.”

She also encourages couples not to miss the island’s natural wonders, from Chamarel’s Seven Coloured Earths to the underwater world of Blue Bay Marine Park. “Black River Gorges National Park offers guided hikes for those keen to experience Mauritius’ indigenous forests, while a visit to Pamplemousses Botanical Garden to admire its giant water lilies (Victoria amazonica) is something truly special.” Turner and her team emphasise that the real magic of Mauritius lies in the freedom to do as little  or as much as you like on your honeymoon, without ever feeling as though you’re missing out.