Thinking about a cruise meeting or incentive but unsure if it aligns with your sustainability goals? Viking is getting ready to launch a game-changing ship that will let your worries set sail. Hoping to give U.K. attendees a taste of one of America’s top thrill-seeking experiences without the long flight? Universal has announced plans for a can’t-miss theme park just 35 minutes from London. Cambodia calling? The country’s new airport, located just 19 miles from Phnom Penh, will be ready for your arrival in July.
As always, Smart Travel is here with the latest must-know updates in travel and tourism.
Viking to Launch World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Cruise Ship
Viking, in partnership with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, has announced the Viking Libra, set to become the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship when it sets sail in late 2026.
Currently under construction at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, the Viking Libra will use a hybrid propulsion system powered by liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells, allowing it to operate with zero emissions and marking a major step forward in sustainable cruising. The ship will carry just under 1,000 guests in 499 staterooms, offering the same small-ship experience Viking is known for, while being able to navigate sensitive marine environments safely.
“Viking made the principled decision to invest in hydrogen, which offers a true zero-emission solution,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman and CEO of Viking. “We look forward to welcoming the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship to our fleet in 2026.”
Viking’s next ocean ship, the Viking Astrea, scheduled for 2027, will also feature hydrogen-based technology. As part of a larger growth plan, the company also signed contracts for four more ocean ships, with two confirmed for delivery in 2031 and two more under option for 2033.
Fox World Travel Launches AI-Powered Platform for Smarter Corporate Travel
Fox World Travel has introduced Fox Connect, a new AI-powered platform designed to simplify the way companies book, manage and track business travel. Built as a central hub for everything from real-time data and reporting to personalized communications, the tool aims to make the travel management process more efficient for both travelers and managers.
Whether you’re handling individual itineraries or coordinating group travel, Fox Connect brings it all together with single sign-on access, intuitive booking tools and up-to-date information in one streamlined interface available across desktop, mobile and tablet.
“We’re thrilled to launch Fox Connect, a platform designed to transform how our clients manage corporate travel,” said Michael Gumtow, director of application development at Fox World Travel. “Whether you’re booking, managing or tracking trips, Fox Connect provides a seamless, all-in-one solution that enhances efficiency, reduces complexity and helps drive better decision-making for travel programs.”
For travel managers, the platform also supports policy compliance and cost control while providing users with a clearer view of spending and performance through customizable reporting tools.
Universal Plans New Theme Park Destination in the U.K.
Universal is heading across the pond. Comcast NBCUniversal has announced plans to build a new Universal theme park, hotel and entertainment complex just south of Bedford, about 35 minutes by train from London. The proposed destination will be the first of its kind in the U.K. and a major new player in Europe’s group travel and incentive planning scene.
The 476-acre site, purchased in 2023, will feature multiple themed lands, immersive attractions and an on-site hotel with 500 guestrooms. A surrounding retail, dining and entertainment district will round out the experience. While still subject to government approval, construction could begin as early as 2026.
With over 80% of England’s population and half of the U.K.’s within a two-hour drive and easy access from continental Europe, the location is well-positioned for both domestic and international visitors—including planners looking for new incentive trip opportunities.
“Bringing the Universal brand to the United Kingdom is another exciting step forward in generating future growth,” said Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences. “Expanding into Europe presents us with a significant opportunity to reach new fans and share the incredible experiences our team creates.”
The announcement comes as Universal expands globally, with Epic Universe opening in Orlando this May, a horror-themed experience launching in Las Vegas later this year and Universal Kids Resort set to debut in Frisco, Texas in 2026.
New International Airport Near Phnom Penh Set to Open This Summer
Cambodia’s newest international airport, Techo International Airport (TIA), is set for a soft opening in July 2025, offering easier access to the capital city and boosting the region’s growing appeal for tourism and business travel.
Located roughly 19 miles south of Phnom Penh, TIA spans over 6,400 acres across Kandal and Takeo provinces. Once fully operational, the $1.5 billion airport will handle up to 13 million passengers annually, with plans to scale capacity to 50 million by 2050.
For planners, the new hub opens up new opportunities for international meetings, incentive programs and events in Cambodia, a country with both rich heritage and modern infrastructure on the rise. Built in partnership with the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corp. and designed by Foster + Partners, the terminal features a striking roof canopy and a climate-responsive design that lets in natural light while keeping things cool.
The new airport follows the 2023 debut of Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, another major infrastructure project near Cambodia’s most famous landmark, Angkor Wat. Together, the two airports represent a renewed investment in travel and tourism—one of Cambodia’s key economic pillars.
Fiji’s Loloma Hour Encourages Travelers to Give Back
Fiji’s newest tourism initiative invites visitors to do more than just unwind on its beautiful beaches. Rooted in the Fijian concept of Loloma—a tradition of giving inspired by love and generosity—Loloma Hour encourages travelers to dedicate just one hour of their stay to give back to the land, people and ecosystems that make Fiji so special.
Offered through more than 20 hotels, resorts and tour operators across the islands, the program focuses on four areas: wildlife, community, coastline and reef. Many of the experiences are free and thoughtfully curated to make a real impact.
Participants can choose from activities like coral and giant clam farming at Viani Bay Resort, helping with Fijian crested iguana conservation at Six Senses Fiji or joining a mangrove planting session at Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji. For a cultural connection, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa offers a Fijian cooking class that ties culinary learning to heritage preservation.
With 1 million visitors in 2024, Fiji is experiencing record tourism numbers. As the destination grows—welcoming new air routes and hosting international events like the WSL Finals—Loloma Hour is a reminder that travel can be a force for good.
