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ROUND-UP: Oct. 2-6, 2023

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The week’s round-up news includes WestJet taking a winter break on YYZ-YUL flights and revealing its Sunwing integration date; Porter Airlines California-bound; and Saudia returning to Canada. Non-airline highlights” TICO released its long-awaited reform proposals – including fee changes for members, Royal Caribbean revealed the name of its newest ship, and an Ontario hotel earned a singular honour.

NEWS

After conducting a comprehensive funding framework review, including the Compensation Fund, the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) has released its proposals for a future funding model. They include lower annual fees for most members (but higher for some others), the removal of end-supplier coverage of airlines and cruise ships, and – controversially – no consumer pay model. TICO has developed a detailed guide of each proposal, along with key insights and survey data from the funding framework review. Consultation sessions and an online survey will give TICO members a chance to give their feedback; info on the TICO website.

With planning and integration activities “well underway,” the WestJet Group says its goal is to complete the integration of Sunwing Airlines into its mainline business by October, 2024. The move would see all of the airlines’ 727 aircraft moved into the same AOC (air operator certificate) as well as a seamless transition of the company’s 2,000 employees. The move will have no impact on Sunwing Vacations Group and its associated vacations brands, says WestJet, which notes that its integration of its own subsidiary Swoop will be fully completed by Oct. 28, 2023.

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) and Destination Canada have announced that they secured a significant US$100,000 investment from Expedia Group to help boost Indigenous tourism across Canada. The investment marks a major milestone in advancing Indigenous tourism in Canada and supporting Truth and Reconciliation Commission Call to Action #92, says Destination Canada.

BY THE NUMBERS

According the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, global tourism is on track to recover 80% and 95% international arrival numbers by the end of 2023. Notably, however, a recent YouGov survey found that 66% of tourists believe that travelling to a place that provides familiarity is important. Just under half of respondents feel uncomfortable travelling to places they know little about. This is despite the fact that, of those that do travel to new destinations, 83% agree that they come back with a changed or broadened perspective.

AIR

WestJet is halting flights between Toronto and Montreal for the winter in a continuation of its retreat from short-haul routes in Eastern Canada to retrench in the West. The route will be suspended for six months, starting late October and resuming in late April. WestJet spokeswoman Madison Kruger says the decision was made as a result of performance and is in line with the airline’s strategy to take on more of the longer routes between Eastern and Western Canada.

Porter Airlines is launching its first two western US destinations in California with daily roundtrip service connecting Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). Flights begin Jan. 16 and 25 respectively.

Saudia, formerly known as Saudi Arabian Airlines, will fly three times a week between Jeddah and Toronto’s Pearson International Airport starting Dec. 2. Transport Canada says it’s the first time there have been direct routes between the two countries since 2018, when Saudi Arabia suspended flights as it protested the Canada’s loud condemnation of its human-rights record.

DEALS

AmaWaterways has extended its ‘20% Savings’ offer until Dec. 31, valid on select 2023 and ‘24 Europe and Mekong river cruise itineraries. Solo travellers also qualify for 20% of the single supplement. Both offers can be combined with the AirPlus promotion allowing Canadian travellers (from all gateways) economy airfare to Europe for CDN$1,099, Premium Economy airfare at $2,999 or Business Class airfare at $4,999 on select dates in 2023 and 2024.

TOUR OPERATORS

Maderia Globus

Citing a whopping 80% increase in bookings this year for Portugal, Globus family of brands is introducing new tours, a new Suite Ship and river cruise for the European hotspot in 2024. Among them is the new 11-day “Taste of Portugal” tour from Lisbon to Portugal. Also new are two extensions to Atlantic islands of Madeira (photo) and the Azores. Meanwhile, Avalon Waterways will also make its Portugal debut in 2024 with its new, Suite Ship, the Avalon Alegria, which will sale the eight-day “Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro” itinerary.

G Adventures has launched “Trees for Days,” an initiative “bringing the protection of the environment and empowerment of local communities closer together to enact powerful change through travel and tourism,” while at the same time enabling clients to support tree planting in their most cherished destinations. Over one million trees are already being grown, as the small group adventure operator has backdated the planting of trees for every day a traveller has joined a trip since January 01. And soon, travellers will be able to contribute beyond the end date of their G Adventures trip by continuing to purchase trees in a region of their choice whenever they travel, via their G Adventures account.

HOTELS

The Bruce Hotel in Stratford, Ont. has received a coveted CAA/AAA Five Diamond designation making it the only boutique hotel in Canada to hold the honour. The hotel previously held CAA/AAA Four Diamond since opening. Noted for world class luxury and service, the most recent AAA Five Diamond list comprised 133 properties, less than 0.5% of the 27,000 properties AAA rates. To earn the distinctive AAA Five Diamond designation, hotels and restaurants must pass a rigorous evaluation that includes unannounced, in-person inspections, anonymous overnight stays for hotels, and, finally, review by a panel of experts as an additional step to ensure credibility.

Direct from Miami Beach, the famous Fontainebleau brand takes residence in Las Vegas as of Dec. 13, the first incarnation of the hotel outside Florida. At 67 storeys, the 3,644-room hotel, which promises “a new take on Las Vegas luxury” will be the tallest building on the Strip, and will feature 34 restaurants and bars, seven pools, lavish spa, and a LIV nightclub. Reservations are now open.

RESORTS

Barbados’ O2 Beach Club & Spa will be hosting celebrity chefs Anne Burrell and Renee Blackman for two special events Oct. 20 and 21 during Barbados Food & Rum Festival, which runs Oct. 19-22. The boutique, luxury hotel as well as its family-friendly counterpart, Sea Breeze Beach House, are official host hotels for the island’s premier culinary event. Travellers can get 60% off their stay when booking through Ocean Hotel’s Food & Rum Festival special. Booking details can be found HERE.

Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, is on the verge completing a multi-million-dollar, property-wide refresh, marking the most extensive renovation since its launch more than 30 years ago. The popular Maui resort, perched along 16 hectares of lush, tropical gardens fronting Maui’s Wailea Beach, will be completely reimagined including refreshed public spaces, new food & beverage venues featuring local ingredients, upgraded guest rooms and suites, and a complete transformation of its stunning, 4,645 sq.-m. spa.

CRUISE

Silversea in Portoferraio, Italy

Silversea’s Summer 2025 Voyage Collection is now open for booking. Sailing between March and November 2025, Silversea’s 12 ultra-luxury ships will offer 206 new voyages exploring 409 destinations in 60 countries, including 24 maiden calls.

Royal Caribbean International has revealed the name of the next Icon Class ship: Star of the Seas, which will debut in summer of 2025.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

To celebrate the launch of Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, set to open on March 27, 2024, the top two Canadian travel advisors with the highest earnings from bookings made with Unique Vacations Canada Inc. or with a Canadian tour operator (and registered bookings on the Sandals Travel Agent Portal) to Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines from Sept. 27 to Oct. 31, 2023  (and for travel March 27, 2024 – Dec. 31, 2025) will be rewarded with a six–day/five-night stay in a Butler Suite at the all-new destination. For contest rules, visit: https://www.sandals.com/disclaimers/sandalssaintvincentcontest/.

EVENTS

Save the date: Hawaii Tourism Canada (HTCAN) announced Dec. 5 to 7 as dates for its next ‘Aloha Canada Road Show,’ which will touch down in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver. Invited travel advisors and key industry partners will attend an informative tradeshow event and evening dinner featuring presentations and networking opportunities. Travel agents will learn about the newest Hawaii happenings, sustainability initiatives and what’s new for 2024, including information on the Mālama Hawai‘i program. The show will also include Hawai‘i cultural practitioners, musicians and performers.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Jordon McGrowder has been named Business Development Manager, Alberta, Manitoba, and Northwest Territories for Sandals/Beaches. He replaces Donné Nixon, who is moving to Toronto to become Human Resources Manager at UVC headquarters. Travel advisors can contact Calgary-based McGrowder at jordon.mcgrowder@uvisandals.ca or 587-336-1841.

TTC Tour Brands North America has announced the appointment of Lora Hamre as the new Groups Business Development Manager, Canada effective immediately. A familiar face in the Canadian travel industry, Hamre brings over 20 years of sales experience – including an earlier position as BDM with Trafalgar, Costsaver, and Brendan Vacations – to the newly created role.

DESTINATIONS

Egypt is seeking to double the number of visitors to the country in the next five years with a goal of reaching 30 million visitors by 2028, as its once-thriving tourism sector recovers from the fallout of the coronavirus pandemic and the grinding war in Europe following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The country’s Tourism and Antiquities Minister Ahmed Issa says Egypt had received 10 million tourists in the first eight months of 2023, and is “well on track to achieve around 15 million this year, which is going to be a record year for the tourism industry.”

Canada has another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tr’ondëk-Klondike, located in the homeland of Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in in the Yukon, was inscribed on the prestigious United Nations list at the recent 45th session of the World Heritage Committee in Saudi Arabia. It is the 22nd site in this country to earn the designation since Canada joined the World Heritage Convention in 1976.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 2001, Swissair, long considered one of the world’s premier airlines, was grounded after filing for bankruptcy protection.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

New Luxury Tented Camp Announced in Chiang Rai, Thailand

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New Luxury Tented Camp Announced in Chiang Rai, Thailand - TRAVELINDEXThe Visama Mae Chan luxury tented camp in the mountains of Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, will open 1 November. The new property, with 10 luxuriously appointed tents, is the first high end lodge by Visama Hospitality Group (VHG) Asia.

It will be a project with a purpose, run on not-for-profit principles to benefit the neighbouring Friends of Thai Daughters foundation, which seeks to prevent child trafficking by empowering girls from hill tribe communities.

The foundation, registered in the United States as a not-for-profit, and created by its current directors, Patty Zinkowski and Jane McBride, issued a statement saying: “We are grateful that Visama Mae Chan will provide both sustainable income for the foundation and employment opportunities for some of our girls. We look forward to a long and productive partnership with Visama.”

Details of the new property by VHG were revealed to a select group of travel trade representatives at the Siam Hotel in Bangkok on 27 September.

VHG Asia’s co-founders Willem Niemeijer of YAANA Ventures and Christopher Stafford, who founded the luxury boutique hotel management firm The Occident & Orient Company, told the audience that there was nowhere else like Visama in northern Thailand and that the opening 10 units would be complemented by an additional 12 luxury tents in 2024.

Niemeijer, who co-founded award winning ecolodges and tented camps in southern Thailand and Cambodia, said Visama Mae Chan guests could choose two- to four-day “journeys” at the lodge. Each journey will be created around themes such as farm to table dining, Lanna cultural appreciation, artistic engagement, outdoor adventure and sightseeing experiences.

The luxury tents, which have hill tribe names such as “Akha”, “Lahu”, “Yao”, and “Hmong”, range in size from 48 to 80 sqm, including a 12 or 20 sqm veranda. Standard amenities include air conditioning, phone, espresso machine, French press coffee pots, WiFi, rain showers, safety deposit box, refrigerator, his and her bathrobes and slippers, bathtub and 24 hour concierge, to name a few amenities.

One highlight will be The Ambalama, a gathering place for storytelling and talks by guest speakers such as authors and historians. At the Reu Doo Gaan restaurant guests can sample the best of Lanna fare, local farm to table organic options and international favourites.

Chris Stafford, Chief Operating Officer of VHG and formerly of 137 Pillars Hotels, said activity options at the pioneering lodge would set it apart from any competition.

“We want to immerse guests in a fusion of luxury and Lanna culture set against the stunning backdrop of mythical mountains of the Golden Triangle,” he said.

Stafford said that event butlers will offer guests private picnics, foraging, personalised arts and craft sessions, dining by design, meditation tutorials, and even archery. Visama Mae Chan will invite guest speakers to talk on subjects such as wellness, sustainability and community.

Looking beyond the inaugural Mae Chan project, Niemeijer told the travel agent audience: “At Visama we aim to meticulously design our camps to blend seamlessly into their surroundings, providing guests refreshing opportunities to connect with nature while enjoying modern amenities and world-class service.”

Booking and sales for Visama Mae Chan opened 27 September for stays commencing 1 November 2023 onwards.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC and Saudi Arabia Extend Partnership

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WTTC and Saudi Arabia Extend Partnership - TRAVELINDEXRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, October 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / In a significant milestone, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia have announced the extension of their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

This historic agreement, follows last year’s successful Global Summit in Riyadh and underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to further enhance its Travel & Tourism sector.

Saudi Arabia is committing a staggering $800 billion to unlock the full potential of its breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures for travellers worldwide. This landmark agreement unites private and public sectors in a concerted effort to craft a sustainable blueprint for growth.

The MoU, signed today during the Kingdom’s World Tourism Day event in Riyadh, solidifies the collaboration between WTTC and Saudi Arabia, focusing on advancing key objectives, including the promotion of job creation, talent development, and global business opportunities within Travel & Tourism.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Through the signing of this MoU, WTTC and the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia embark on a new chapter of cooperation, uniting our expertise to shape a prosperous future for the Travel & Tourism sector.

“Together, we can continue to create a powerful synergy that will open doors to endless opportunities, benefiting travellers, businesses, and destinations alike.”

Princess Haifa bint Mohammed Al Saud, Vice Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia said: “Yesterday’s extension of our partnership with WTTC marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a more sustainable tourism sector. This collaboration highlights our commitment to fostering global business opportunities and talent development whilst underlining the vital role of public-private partnerships in shaping the future of Travel & Tourism.”

The partnership aims to elevate tourism on both global and national agendas while expanding skills, innovation, entrepreneurship, investment, and the transition toward a more sustainable and resilient Travel & Tourism sector.

Additionally, the collaboration will promote community empowerment and inclusion, as well as work together on crisis preparedness, management, and recovery, drawing from the valuable lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This extension of partnership signifies the dedication of The Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia to continue its robust support for the Travel & Tourism sector, showcasing its commitment to a more prosperous and sustainable future.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Strengthens Links Between Agriculture, Gastronomy and Tourism

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UNWTO Strengthens Links Between Agriculture, Gastronomy and Tourism - Gastronomy Tourism at TOP25Restaurants.comDonostia, Spain, October 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has held the 8th edition of its World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism co-organized with Basque Culinary Center (BCC), with a focus on the links between product, gastronomy and tourism.

The promotion and preservation of local products, the contribution of tourism to sustainable development, innovation and food waste all took center stage as UNWTO and BCC, also welcomed more than 300 online participants from 50 countries.

Opening the Forum, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Gastronomy Tourism can play a leading role in promoting responsible agricultural practices, protecting biodiversity and reducing the environmental footprint. It can also create new opportunities for communities to thrive and protect their heritage and traditions and become an engine of growth and diversification for destinations supporting our roadmap towards the Sustainable Development Goals.”

Gastronomy Tourism can play a leading role in promoting responsible agricultural practices, protecting biodiversity and reducing the environmental footprint

Joxe Mari Aizega, General Director of Basque Culinary Center, added: “We are at a time to promote transformative dynamics and link gastronomy tourism with rural development. Territory, innovation and creativity are key to successfully moving towards a new scenario in which to promote a model of responsible gastronomy tourism focused on caring for people and the environment. It is essential to promote sustainable practices, harnessing the power of technology as an engine of growth and promoting the professional development of the sector, and to work to maintain the authenticity and diversity of the gastronomic offer.”

The opening ceremony also featured Rosana Morillo, Secretary of State for Tourism of Spain, Eneko Goia, Mayor of San Sebastian, Azahara Domínguez, Deputy for Mobility, Tourism and Territorial Planning, Provincial Council of Guipuzkoa, and Javier Hurtado, Regional Minister for Tourism, Trade and Consumer Affairs of the Basque Government.

On the occasion, world-renowned chefs Martin Berasategui and Pedro Subijana, notorious for their contributions to Basque cuisine’s international recognition, were designated UNWTO Ambassadors for Responsible Tourism.

Tourism for Development and Growth

The Forum put the spotlight on gastronomy tourism’s role in the preservation of local territories and the promotion of sustainable practices. A high-level panel of tourism ministers – Bulgaria, Puerto Rico and Zimbabwe focused on policies that strengthen agriculture, gastronomy and tourism. Expert-led discussions also focused on the protection of culinary traditions, the value of geographical indications, advancing the sustainability and resilience of rural areas, enabling producers to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven world.

With gastronomy tourism one of the pillars of the UNWTO Agenda for Africa – Tourism for Inclusive Growth, the Forum also explored the sector’s potential as a source of inclusive growth across the region. In a special address, the First Lady of Zimbabwe, Auxillia C. Mnangagwa, a committed promoter of African gastronomy highlighted that “gastronomy tourism globally has become an effective tool of attracting tourists, particularly those who are cognisant of the natural and nutritional value embedded in traditional foods. As nations we should be able to tap into our nutritional traditional cuisines to ensure a healthy living and socio-economic development of our nations. This is in line with our heritage-based philosophy for promoting tourism.”

Also on the occasion, UNWTO designated Chef Fatmata Binta as Ambassador for Responsible Tourism for her role in promoting African Gastronomy and community development. Chef Binta is a modern-day nomadic chef connected to the Fulani culture, customs, and cuisine of the biggest Nomadic group in West and Central Africa.

Gastronomy Tourism Startup Competition

In Donostia – San Sebastian, selected finalists from previous UNWTO Startup Competitions working on Gastronomy pitched their ideas. The solutions presented featured exceptional, personalized culinary experiences curated by renowned chefs (Searchef), streamlining waste management in hospitality (Eatinn), celebrating the flavours of Moroccan street food (Machi Mouchkil), establishing sustainability certifications and restaurant guidelines (Ecofoodies), and introducing a locally crafted, quality food delivery app (Oh les Chefs).

Oh les Chefs emerged as the winner, primarily for its strong potential for international expansion. They will gain access to a dedicated workspace within the LABe- Digital Gastronomy Lab for six months. Additionally, the startup will actively engage in the Culinary Action!, gastronomy entrepreneurship programme by Basque Culinary Center and enjoy a six-month membership in the GOe Digital Community.

To date, more than 700 startups from more than 100 countries have taken part in the competition. Applications are now open for the 4th Edition of the UNWTO Gastronomy Tourism Startup Competition in collaboration with the Basque Culinary Centre and powered by Alpitour World.

A Roadmap for Food Waste Reduction in Tourism

Drawing from the recommendations in the Global Roadmap for Food Waste Reduction in Tourism, released by UNWTO in collaboration with UN Environment Programme, the “Circular Solutions for Reducing Food Waste” session showcased diverse initiatives by hotels, restaurants and cruise lines.

Solutions ranged from prevention measures, such as mindful procurement and menu design; redistribution of food surplus to vulnerable groups and biomaterial processing; to circular strategies like composting or energy recovery. The discussions also emphasized the significance of education, innovation, and supportive regulations and policies in accelerating change.

Inaugural dinner offered by Chefs of Mahaia Kolektiboa

The inaugural dinner of the Forum was hosted by Chefs of Mahaia Kolektiboa, a collective of chefs committed to the evolution of Basque cuisine.

Aitor Arregi (Elkano), Jon Ayala (Laia Erretegia), Xabi Gorrotxategi (Casa Julián), Dani López (Kokotxa), Javi Rivero (AMA), Roberto Ruiz (HIKA), Gorka Txapartegi (Alameda) and Armintz Gorrotxategi (Rafa Gorrotxategi), all dedicated members of the Mahaia Kolektiboa, showcased the essence of Basque cuisine, a hallmark of Donostia – San Sebastian that draws visitors from around the world.

UNWTO Announces the 2024 host of the World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism

The 2024 Forum will take place in Manama, Bahrain, the first time it will be held in the Middle East.

To conclude in an experiential way at the Forum, tomorrow, October 7, attendees will have the opportunity to choose from 6 different excursions to experience and savor local gastronomy.

Similarly, the parallel event “Culinary Plaza”, open to local citizens and organized by the Basque Culinary Center, in collaboration with the UNWTO, will highlight culinary specialties from destinations such as Zimbabwe, Saudi Arabia, Porto and Botswana. It will do so through a gastronomic fair in food market format where it will be possible to delve into the culinary culture of these corners of the world and taste their cuisine in a unique atmosphere.

This year’s Forum is organized by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Basque Culinary Center (BCC), with the support of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism of Spain, Basque Government, and the Provincial Council of Guipuzkoa, the City Council of San Sebastián.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

India Welcomes over 1,000 delegates to PATA Travel Mart 2023

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India Welcomes over 1,000 delegates to PATA Travel Mart 2023 - TRAVELINDEXNew Delhi, India, October 6, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / PATA Travel Mart 2023 (PTM 2023), generously hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has attracted over 1000 delegates from 46 global destinations. The delegate numbers embraced 159 sellers from 92 organisations and 15 destinations, along with 196 buyers from 191 organisations and 38 source markets.

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is also pleased to welcome over 350 local and international students and young tourism professionals. The students from 10 local and international universities are part of the PATA Youth Symposium to be held later today, Thursday, October 5. The Youth Symposium is organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India; the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, and Amity University Noida.

“The Ministry of Tourism for the Government of India has been one of our most valuable members and active partner for more than 60 years. Based on their commitment and enthusiasm in organsing PATA Travel Mart, we at PATA are excited to facilitate engagement between India and the rest of the world through this event,” said PATA Chair Peter Semone. “Even after a three-year hiatus in-person, PATA Travel Mart continues to provide unparalleled networking and contracting opportunities for our delegates from all over the world.”

PTM 2023 officially opened in New Delhi, India on Wednesday, October 4 with the PTM 2023 Inauguration Ceremony & Welcome Reception, presided by Sh. G Kishen Reddy, Minister of Tourism, Government of India, taking place at the Ashok Hotel.

Early in the day, delegates had the chance to gain insights into the dynamic landscape of global sustainability trends, shedding light on how responsible practices are shaping industries worldwide during the half-day PTM Forum, Moreover, the speakers also illuminated the vast opportunities that sustainability offers, driving economic growth, innovation and prosperity. Speakers included Aashish Gupta, Consulting CEO, FAITH; Supawan Teerarat, Senior Vice President, MICE Capability and Innovation, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB); Jyothi Varma, Consultant for Travel Related Services Online And Offline; Noredah Othman, CEO, Sabah Tourism Board; Amaresh Tiwari, Vice Chairman, Indian Convention Promotion Bureau; Peter Richards, Project Manager, Tourlink SwitchAsia Programme; Prof. Monika Prakash, Nodal Officer, Central Nodal Agency – Sustainable Tourism; Alisara Sivayathorn, CEO, Sivatel Bangkok Hotel; Kanokwan Homcha-aim, Cluster Naturalist, Anantara Layan Phuket Resort; Prof. Veena Sikri, Convenor, South Asia Women’s Network; Shradha Shrestha, Manager, Tourism Branding, Marketing & Promotion- Nepal Tourism Board; Rupesh Kumar, Coordinator, Responsible Tourism Mission Kerala; Dr Manoj Kumar Singh, Nodal Officer, Responsible Tourism Madhya Pradesh; Dr. Shikha Jain, Founder Director, DRONAH; Sachin Bansal, Founders – India City Walks; R B Santosh Kumar, Vice President & Head Government Engagement, South Asia, Mastercard; Rajeev Jain, Founder and Managing Director, Rashi Entertainment; Tara Naidu, Chief of Commercial, Air India Express; Santosh Kumar, Country Head – Indian sub-continent & Indonesia, Booking.com; Wipawadee Niyomthai, Senior Manager, TCEB; Bharat Nagpal, Enterprise Sales Director, ADARA, Inc., and Sriram Gopalswamy, Vice President, Site Reliability Engineering & MD, Sabre Bengaluru.

Topics included ‘Where Responsibility Meets Opportunity’, ‘Driving Change: Sustainability in MICE Tourism’, ‘Increasing Sustainability in the Tourism Supply Chain Through Standards and Certification’, ‘Waste Management in Tourism: The Challenges and Best Practices Towards Food and Plastic Waste Reduction’, ‘Bridging the Gender Gap for Community Empowerment and Sustainability’, ‘Preservation of Cultural Heritage Sites: Leveraging the Benefits of Responsible Tourism’, ‘Travel Industry Trends’, ‘Weddings & Wanderlust: The Statistics of Indian Wedding Industry, What Next’, ‘Examining Aviation’s Path in India and its Impact on Travel and Tourism’, ‘How India Travels’, and ‘AI and the Future of Tourism’.

During the Travel Mart on October 5 and 6, buyers and sellers will have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one networking and contracting opportunities to explore potential collaborations and business opportunities.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its member organisations, which includes government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BWH Hotels Wins Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ Choice Award for Ninth Consecutive Year

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BWH Hotels Wins Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ Choice Award for Ninth Consecutive Year - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, Singapore, October 6, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels, the leading global hospitality enterprise comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts and SureStay Hotels, has celebrated another win, with Best Western Hotels & Resorts voted as the “Best Midscale Hotel Chain – Asia Pacific” at the Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ Choice Awards.

Celebrated at a ceremonious event in Singapore on October 3, 2023, these awards honor the extraordinary travel suppliers in Asia Pacific who have distinguished themselves in the last 12 months. The winners were voted for by Travel Weekly Asia’s readership, which includes many of the region’s top travel agents and industry professionals.

“BWH Hotels continues to lead the travel industry in Asia Pacific with distinguished honors such as this Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ Choice Awards win,” commented Ron Pohl, President of International Operations, BWH Hotels. “These awards are a testament to our brand’s continued growth in the region and our commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences.”

“We are delighted to have been awarded this prestigious accolade for the ninth consecutive year,” said Mr. Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels. “It is an acknowledgment of our consistency and long-running success in the region, and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.”

While BWH Hotels has grown into a global hospitality enterprise comprising 19 industry-leading brands, ranging from economy to luxury, the fact that Best Western Hotels & Resorts received the “Best Midscale Hotel Chain – Asia Pacific” award reflects how this brand has retained its reputation as the industry’s most trusted and respected provider of midscale hospitality.

For more information about BWH Hotels in Asia, please visit bestwesternasia.com

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 19 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.
*Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Global Summit: Building Bridges to a Sustainable Future

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WTTC Global Summit Building Bridges to a Sustainable Future - TRAVELINDEXKigali, Rwanda, October 6, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / In a milestone event that promises to reshape the contours of the global Travel & Tourism sector, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today unveils the bold theme and agenda for WTTC’s 23rd Global Summit taking place in Kigali, Rwanda: “Building Bridges to a Sustainable Future”.

This year’s eagerly awaited Global Summit, set to unfold from the 1 – 3 November 2023, takes place in Africa for the first time, recognising the phenomenal growth the Travel & Tourism sector across the continent has witnessed in recent years.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “This Global Summit is a rallying cry for leaders, innovators, and change-makers from all corners of the globe to come together and craft a new vision for the sector.

“It’s an unparalleled opportunity to be at the forefront of shaping a sector that is not only resilient but is also committed to the principles of sustainability and inclusivity.

“Rwanda is the perfect venue for our Global Summit, as the sector embarks on a significant new chapter. Africa has the world’s youngest population and by 2033, $1 in every $13 created in Africa, will come from Travel & Tourism and 1 in 17 jobs will be in the sector. This demonstrates the huge potential the continent’s sector has for new jobs and new economic growth for young people across Africa.”

Co-hosted by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the annual event is the most influential on the Travel and Tourism calendar that brings together thousands of industry leaders and experts and key government representatives to continue aligning efforts to support the sector’s growth and move beyond to a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.

With sessions on resilience and sustainable growth, the growing impact of AI and understanding new and emerging markets, the Global Summit is set to cover the key challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

Francis Gatare, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, said: “We are proud to host the first ever WTTC Global Summit in Africa. While this important gathering will take place in Rwanda, it is for the whole continent. Africa has some of the most spectacular tourism properties and experiences in the world, and the sector plays a significant role in the continent’s continued economic development by creating millions of jobs.

“This year’s WTTC Global Summit will provide a great platform to build bridges across the tourism and travel ecosystem, and co-design a sustainable future for the sector to achieve its full potential.”

African Travel & Tourism Sector’s Potential

The latest Economic Impact Research from the global tourism body reveals a staggering ten year forecast for Africa’s Travel & Tourism sector. In 2033, WTTC predicts that the Travel & Tourism sector will contribute more than $300BN to Africa’s economy and jobs in the sector will grow significantly, reaching more than 36MN in total.

In Rwanda, WTTC is forecasting that by 2033 the Travel & Tourism sector will contribute more than $2.1BN to the national economy and will support almost 568,000 jobs. This is testament to Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable tourism, diversifying the experiences it offers, and promoting awareness of its rich biodiversity, culture and heritage, and art.

Rwanda aims to double its tourism revenues from $445MN earned last year, to more than $800MN, in its ongoing seven-year National Strategy for Transformation and become one of the world’s leading luxury ecotourism destinations.

The 2023 WTTC Global Summit seeks to be the catalyst for this change, offering a platform where vibrant ideas meet opportunity, and where the future of Travel & Tourism will be redrawn and redefined.

For more details about the summit and how to participate, please visit the wttc.org

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Best Western Hotels & Resorts Upholds Its Place in Travel Hall of Fame

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Best Western Hotels & Resorts Upholds Its Place in Travel Hall of Fame - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, October 5, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels, the leading global hospitality enterprise comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts and SureStay Hotels, has affirmed its place again in TTG Asia’s “Travel Hall of Fame,” one of the travel industry’s highest honors.

This esteemed placement is only given to an elite group of organizations as a permanent honor for their impressive record of winning the same prestigious award over ten consecutive years. In the 32nd TTG Travel Awards 2023, which was celebrated in a gala ceremony in Bangkok, Best Western Hotels & Resorts was named the “Travel Hall of Fame: Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand”.

The winners were voted for by the readers of TTG Asia, the region’s leading travel trade magazine, and its six sister publications. This signifies that BWH Hotels was given a resounding vote of confidence by the region’s most respected travel trade personnel, including corporate and leisure travel agents.

“This is a significant achievement for our BWH Hotels family,” said Ron Pohl, President of International Operations, BWH Hotels. “As we continue to expand our footprint throughout the region, I am proud to see Best Western Hotels & Resorts maintain its position as an industry leader and trusted travel brand. Congratulations to the entire APAC team for this impressive accomplishment.”

“We are delighted and deeply honored to have retained our position as the “Travel Hall of Fame: Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand”. At BWH Hotels, we constantly strive to maintain strong relationships with our travel industry colleagues, so this award is a wonderful reflection of the success of these partnerships. I would like to pay tribute to our entire team for their hard work and dedication, and I look forward to creating many more exceptional experiences for our esteemed travel trade partners and clients in the future,” said Mr. Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

While BWH Hotels has grown into a global hospitality enterprise comprising 19 industry-leading brands, ranging from economy to luxury, the fact that the company achieved the “Travel Hall of Fame: Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand” award reflects how it has retained its reputation as the industry’s most trusted and respected provider of midscale hospitality.

For more information about BWH Hotels in Asia, please visit bestwesternasia.com

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 19 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.
*Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Appoints Chefs as UNWTO Sustainable Tourism Ambassadors

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UNWTO Appoints Chefs as UNWTO Sustainable Tourism Ambassadors - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - CHEF-FATMATA-BINTADonostia, Spain, October 4, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has appointed Chef Fatmata Binta and world-renowned Basque Chefs Martín Berasategi and Pedro Subijana as Ambassadors for Sustainable Tourism, in the framework of the 8th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism co-organized with Basque Culinary Center (BCC). The UNWTO thus recognises their work in gastronomy, the enhancement of local produce and community development.

With this nomination, the UNWTO underlines the importance of sustainable food systems, cultural preservation and capacity building as examples of the joint transformative potential of gastronomy and tourism for the development and prosperity of communities around the world.

It is a privilege to have world-renowned chefs join us today in our mission to advance the role of gastronomy and tourism for our planet and people, strengthening communities, fostering sustainable food systems and changing lives

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili highlighted the combined potential of gastronomy and tourism: “It is a privilege to have world-renowned chefs join us today in our mission to advance the role of gastronomy and tourism for our planet and people, strengthening communities, fostering sustainable food systems and changing lives.”

Chef Fatmata Binta

Originally from Freetown, Sierra Leone, her extensive travels and collaborations with internationally renowned chefs have led her to promote responsible and sustainable consumption, especially in Africa, in collaboration with the Food and

Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Her exceptional dedication has earned her international recognition, including the prestigious Basque Culinary World Prize (2022) and the Best Chef Rising Star Award (2021). She founded the Fulani Kitchen Foundation in 2020, which aims to empower women in rural Ghana through food security.

Chef Martín Berasategi

The chef from Gipuzkoa with the most Michelin Stars in Spain – 12 between seven of his restaurants – began his culinary career at the age of 15. He achieved worldwide recognition for a family business and continues to be an exponent of the best Basque gastronomy around the world, while maintaining his commitment to healthy cuisine.

Chef Pedro Subijana

Considered a visionary in the sector, author of several books and with a cooking programme for Basque television, he is co-founder of the New Basque Cuisine movement. Since 1975 he has headed the Akelarre restaurant, which has held three Michelin stars since 2007.
In addition, chefs Subijana and Berasategi are trustees of Basque Culinary Center, underlining their commitment to culinary excellence and education.
The three new UNWTO Sustainable Tourism Ambassadors join other prominent figures, who in addition to gastronomy, represent culture, sport, the arts and philanthropy.

8th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism

The 8th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, to be held in Donostia-San Sebastian between 5 – 7 October 2023, will focus on how tourism canfoster rural development, generate economic resilience and preserve cultural heritage, and on the connections between product, gastronomy and tourism.

This year’s Forum is organised by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and Basque Culinary Center (BCC), with the support of the Basque Government, the Provincial Council of Guipuzkoa, the City Council of Donostia – San Sebastian and the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism of Spain.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tourism Sector Pledges to Promote Investment, Education and New Destinations

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Tourism Sector Pledges to Promote Investment, Education and New Destinations - TRAVELINDEX - UNWTORiyadh, Saudi Arabia, October 3, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The legacy of the World Tourism Day 2023 celebrations will live on in the shape of greater investments in the sector’s sustainability and a shared commitment to spread the benefits the sector delivers even more widely.

Hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the official celebrations welcomed more than 50 Ministers of Tourism alongside hundreds of high-level delegates from the public and private sectors. The day featured expert-led panels focused on key topics around this year’s theme of Tourism and Green Investments, with plans backed up with concrete actions as UNWTO announced several important new initiatives.

This year has been the biggest World Tourism Day ever, and we want to make sure it leaves the biggest impact too

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “This year has been the biggest World Tourism Day ever, and we want to make sure it leaves the biggest impact too. From Riyadh, we have joined our global sector around a pledge to promote new destinations, to diversify the economic and social benefits of tourism, and have announced a new school that will transform tourism education in the Middle East.”

Tourism Pledges to Open Minds

In Riyadh, Secretary-General Pololikashvili introduced “Tourism Opens Minds”, a landmark initiative designed to showcase the powerful role that tourism plays in bridging cultures and fostering peace and understanding. With UNWTO’s latest data indicating the sector is well on track to recover as much as 95% of pre-pandemic arrivals numbers by the end of 2023, Tourism Opens Minds is designed to ensure that this strong recovery is joined by a greater emphasis on tourists exploring less-visited destinations. The focus will be on:

  • Making lesser-known destinations more accessible to all tourists and ensuring all visitors receive a warm welcome by host communities
  • Promoting lesser-known destinations and actively working to make tourists visit them
  • Working with governments and the private sector to encourage tourists themselves to be more open-minded in their choice of travel destination

To mark the launch, UNWTO unveiled a new symbol for the initiative, made up of the colours of the various flags of the world, and shared a pledge for the sector to unite around. A special pledge, to be supported by Governments, private sector leaders and tourists themselves, was shared with select delegates, calling on them to commit to promoting new and diverse travel destinations.

Investing in Tourism Education

To ensure that the World Tourism Day 2023 celebrations leave a lasting impact in Riyadh and across the wider region, UNWTO Secretary-General Pololikashvili joined with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb to announce a joint project focused on creating new generations of skilled tourism workers:

  • The Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality will be a collaborative effort between UNWTO, the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Qiddiya
  • With 80% of all global tourism education programs currently focused on hotel operations, the Riyadh School will deliver learning for every part of the diverse sector.
  • The School will offer eight different levels of educational programs including diplomas and certificates through to professional courses and courses at the Bachelors and Master’s degree level.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News