Houston on the World Stage: New Routes, New Hotels, New Experiences

Houston continues to soar as one of North America’s most dynamic destinations - and Visit Houston is at the forefront of telling that story. As a valued partner of Journeys (having hosted two editions of Journeys North America and remaining central to Journeys United Kingdom 2026), these latest developments further strengthen the travel and hospitality ecosystem we’ve built together year after year.

✈️ Historic New Flight: Houston ↔ Rome

In a major connectivity milestone, ITA Airways has announced the launch of the first ever direct service between Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Rome Fiumicino Airport. Starting May 1, 2026, the new route will operate three flights per week, increasing to five in the peak season - linking two culturally rich global cities like never before. This service enhances Houston’s position as a global hub, opening doors to Italy for both leisure and business travellers and strengthening economic and cultural ties.

🏨 The Ritz-Carlton Comes to Houston

Luxury hospitality is getting a bold new footprint in Houston with the announcement of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel & Residences. Set for Uptown/Galleria, this 44-story tower will house a Ritz-Carlton hotel alongside private branded residences - marking the brand’s first combined hotel and full residential offering in the city. Designed to elevate Houston’s luxury travel and lifestyle scene, this project signals confidence in the city’s thriving cultural and economic landscape.

🏙️ Breaking Ground on Houston’s First Auberge Collection Property

Another major addition to Houston’s premium hotel scene is The Birdsall, Auberge Collection - now under construction as part of The RO, a transformative mixed-use development in River Oaks. This 34-story boutique hotel and residences will be Houston’s first Auberge Collection property, blending sophisticated hospitality with curated residential living, and is expected to open in the coming years.

🌍 What This Means for Visitors and Partners

Together, these developments signal a new phase of growth for Houston as an internationally connected, luxury-forward destination. Journeys is proud to support Visit Houston’s vision, building on our collaboration across Journeys North America and our continued engagement in the UK market. As Houston’s global connectivity and hospitality offering expand, so too does the opportunity for meaningful connections across our international community - a shared ambition that continues to drive our partnership forward.