CNN International has launched a new digital channel, CNN Travel, for luxury, business and leisure travelers.

Through a network of more than 800 travel contributors around the world, CNN Travel delivers updated travel news, destination insights, inspirational travel ideas, original observation and researched city and country insider guides with directions to restaurants, bars, hotels and activities.

CNN Travel brings together the best of CNN’s existing digital travel portfolio and CNNGo.com, the Asia Pacific-focused travel start-up launched in 2009. The Hong Kong-headquartered team that launched CNNGo.com will continue at the helm of the international CNN Travel platform, working with international travel contributors to provide users with the distinct voice, authority and local insights.

“CNN Travel’s blend of reporting, global network, international partnerships, contemporary voice and social media reach will position the site as a compelling travel destination,” said Peter Bale, Vice President and General Manager of CNN International Digital.

“CNN.com has launched a series of groundbreaking initiatives throughout 2012, including our partnership with Facebook around the U.S. Elections, CNN Trends, and CNN Soundwaves. CNN Travel is an outstanding addition to this roster and we are confident our international users will quickly embrace the site’s unique tone and reportage,” Bale added.

CNN Travel features standalone destination guides on Latin America, North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, along with dedicated sections on Travel News, Aviation, Hotels, Food and Drink amongst others.