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Qatar Airways Al Safwa First Class Lounge in Doha Introduces New Menu

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Qatar Airways Al Safwa First Class Lounge in Doha Introduces New Menu - TRAVELINDEX - QATARTOURISM.orgDoha, Qatar, May 3, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Honoured to be one of the first passengers to experience the new dining experience at the Qatar Airways Al Safwa First Class Lounge in Doha.

Doha is Qatar Airway’s hub that every day connects passengers from 170 destinations across the world, a number that could increase to 255 destinations if the Gulf carrier is able to get more aircraft deliveries.

Airline lounges have the difficult challenge to satisfy the needs of premium passengers that are diverse, demanding and often disoriented from jet lag.

It is a true art to be able provide a heathy balance, and this is exactly what Ahmad El Chakif, Senior Executive Sous Chef and Adeel Ahmed, Chef de Partie have achieved with the new menu launched on 1 May 2023.

The presentation of the dishes makes them very appealing, and the taste is truly delicious.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Economists Divided on Global Economic Recovery, Expect Rebound in Asia

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Economists Divided on Global Economic Recovery, Expect Rebound in Asia - TRAVELINDEX - INCREDIBLEASIA.comGeneva, Switzerland, May 4, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The continuing uncertainty of the global economic outlook is reflected in the striking spread of responses to the latest Chief Economists Outlook, released today. In a survey featured in the report, experts are evenly divided on the prospects for the global economy, with equal shares of 45% saying that a global recession this year is likely or unlikely.

– Growth outlook has strengthened in all regions but chief economists divided on likelihood of a global recession in 2023
– Experts do not see recent bank failures as signs of systemic vulnerability, although further turbulence may be ahead
– Experts concerned about trade-off between managing inflation and maintaining financial stability, with 76% anticipating central banks to struggle to bring down inflation
– Industrial policy is increasingly widespread and could further restructure global supply chains

Chief economists expect both growth and inflation dynamics to vary widely across regions, while on the economic policy front, 72% predict proactive industrial policy to become an increasingly widespread phenomenon over the next three years. Although a majority do not see recent financial-sector disruption as a sign of systemic vulnerability, further bank failures and turbulence are considered likely this year.

Divergent regional dynamics

There has been a notable strengthening in growth expectations since the Chief Economists Outlook: January 2023, but the outlook differs sharply across regions. The most buoyant activity is expected in Asia, with China’s reopening expected to drive a significant rebound for the country and to bolster activity across the continent. More than 90% of the chief economists expect at least moderate growth in both East Asia and Pacific and South Asia.

At the other end of the spectrum, three-quarters of the chief economists still expect weak or very weak growth in Europe. In the United States, respondents were more optimistic in March-April than in January but are still divided on the outlook, with US growth prospects clouded by heightened uncertainty on financial stability and the likely pace and extent of monetary tightening.

On inflation, there was a marked uptick in all regions in the proportion of respondents expecting high inflation in 2023, and 76% of chief economists said they expect the cost of living to remain acute in many countries. Headline rates have begun to ease, but core inflation has been stickier than many expected. The dynamics are particularly stark in Europe and the US, where large majorities of the chief economists (90% and 68% respectively) expect high or very high inflation this year. China remains an outlier on inflation, with only 14% expecting high inflation this year.

Financial sector tremors

In the wake of recent bank collapses and financial market turbulence, chief economists expressed confidence in the systemic integrity of global markets. However, two-thirds highlighted the likelihood of further bank failures and disruption, while more than 80% said they expect businesses to find bank loans more difficult to secure as a result of tightening lending criteria. They also pointed to the knock-on effects of high interest rates, notably in the property sector, where two-thirds expect high rates to cause significant disruption in 2023-2024.

Changing face of globalization

The chief economists were unanimous in anticipating further changes in the structure of global supply chains. When asked which business strategies they expect to contribute to this reconfiguration, they highlighted adaption to geopolitical fault lines (94%), the prioritization of resilience over efficiency (91%), diversification of suppliers (84%) and an increased focus on environmental sustainability (77%).

They also pointed to the increasing significance of proactive industrial policy, with almost three-quarters expecting it to become a widespread approach to economic policy around the world. Respondents were divided on whether industrial policy will act as an engine of innovation, but they highlighted several potential concerns, including a deepening of geo-economic tensions (91%), the stifling of competition (70%) and a problematic increase in sovereign debt levels (68%).

“The latest edition of the Outlook highlights the uncertainty of current economic developments,” said Saadia Zahidi, Managing Director, World Economic Forum. “Labour markets are proving resilient for now, but growth remains sluggish, global tensions are deepening, and the cost of living remains acute in many countries. These results confirm the urgent need for both short-term global policy coordination as well as longer-term cooperation around a new framework for growth that will hardwire inclusion, sustainability and resilience into economic policy.”

The World Economic Forum’s Growth Summit, taking place in Geneva 2-3 May, will address the global growth outlook, hotspots in the global economy, and questions of competition and cooperation, as well as employment, skills and equity.

About the Chief Economists Outlook Report

This edition of the Chief Economist Outlook builds on the latest policy development research as well as consultations and surveys with leading chief economists from both the public and private sectors, organized by the World Economic Forum’s Centre for the New Economy and Society. It aims to summarize the emerging contours of the current economic environment and identify priorities for further action by policy-makers and business leaders in response to the compounding shocks to the global economy. The survey featured in this briefing was conducted in March-April 2023.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UAE Tour Operator Launches New Brand at Arabian Travel Market

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UAE Tour Operator Launches New Brand at Arabian Travel Market - TRAVELINDEX - HOLIDEXDubai, United Arab Emirates, May 3, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Holiday Factory, the leading and award-winning tour operator in the UAE, announced the launch of its new brand, “Holiday Factory Premium” at the highly anticipated Arabian Travel Market event 2023 held at Dubai World Trade Centre.

“The UAE market has a unique demographic landscape with an exponentially growing expat population. The region has experienced rapid economic growth which has resulted in increase in disposable income of its residents. Which in turn has created a surge in demand for Premium holidays” – Says Namrata Bhatia, Director Marketing at Holiday Factory

“Research of UAE market suggests, 1/3rd of the population is seeking for premium holidays and is underserved with all-inclusive packages at the right price” – Says Sandra Dammrich, GM at Holiday Factory Premium

After successfully serving the UAE middle-class segment with unbeatably priced holiday packages, Holiday Factory is now set to reshape the “Premium” outbound travel industry with its exciting selection of popular & unexplored destinations such as Switzerland, Italy, Maldives, Northern lights of Scandinavia with a Ice igloo experience etc.

Packaged with only Direct Flights from all local airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, Fly Dubai etc, and other reputed international airlines, Premium hotels, transfers, insurance, and curated daily expert-guided tours to truly experience a destination the Premium Way! Choose to travel in a small group of like-minded travellers for an affordable option or choose to travel privately for the ultimate exclusive experience.

“73% of Premium holiday seekers, residing in the emirates, are looking for all-inclusive holiday packages and 95% of those end up booking by themselves. It’s a long, tedious process of endlessly researching and creating a self-itinerary which ends up being cost-ineffective” said Ekaterina Malikova, Product manager at Holiday Factory Premium.

As travel experts, we curate an entire holiday experience of unparalleled luxury at cost-effective prices – Added Malikova.

In recent years, the importance of online shopping has grown massively, and Holiday Factory Premium recognises that customers crave a seamless, simple booking experience. Our one-stop-shop online booking platform allows clients to book their dream holiday within minutes!

With their successful track record of revolutionising the market with affordable holiday packages in 2011, there is no doubt that Holiday Factory Premium will once again make history and change the game.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PolyU Presents TOUROMETER

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PolyU Presents TOUROMETERThe School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) today (28 April) announced the findings of a study on “A Decision Support System for Post-COVID Tourism Policy Formation and Monitoring”. The study developed a cloud-based social listening platform, TOUROMETER, to measure Hong Kong residents’ sentiment towards visitors and tourism development as well as visitors’ sentiment towards Hong Kong tourism.

Instead of using traditional measures such as classification of attitudes as either positive or negative to estimate support for tourism, this project introduces a more refined concept, ambivalence, that can capture individuals’ simultaneously held positive and negative views. The platform offers a tool for policymakers to monitor the ambivalence of relevant stakeholders towards tourists and tourism development, as well as an effective channel for public engagement to help achieve collaborative planning.

Spearheaded by Prof. Cathy HSU, Principal Investigator and SHTM Chair Professor, the project was funded by the Public Policy Research Funding Scheme, Policy Innovation and Co-ordination Office. The project employed rigorous research methodologies, including the analysis of longitudinal news and social media big data through meta machine learning, and statistical modeling using economy, environment, tourism and census data.

Over the past four years, social unrest and COVID-19 have imposed unprecedented setbacks on Hong Kong tourism. The challenges, however, signify opportunities for reviewing past experience in order to shed light on more effective policymaking in the future. In particular, policies to attract Mainland Chinese tourists, the dominant source market representing 78% of arrivals to Hong Kong in 2018, and to spearhead a healthy post-COVID tourism recovery deserve holistic consideration. “Since the launch of the Individual Visit Scheme in 2003, the huge influx of Mainland Chinese tourists has facilitated exponential tourism growth but simultaneously imposed a heavy burden on local lives, which has intensified tensions between Hong Kong residents and tourists from the Mainland,” Prof. Hsu said. “A lesson to be learned is that understanding and monitoring residents’ and visitors’ sentiments is critical for effective policy formation and timely amendments to avoid detrimental and irreversible conflicts.”

Developed by the project team, the TOUROMETER serves as a public policy decision support system to understand public voices in a timely and ongoing manner. The project has collected sentiment data from Hong Kong residents and Mainland Chinese tourists on popular social media platforms (e.g., Twitter and Ctrip) and 19 major newspapers in Hong Kong from 2003 onward. The results show that:

  1. Hong Kong residents’ dispositions based on news stories and those on social media posts are significantly different. Positive news stories do not necessarily mean positive social media postings. In general, resident disposition on social media is less positive and more ambivalent to Mainland Chinese tourists and tourism development than that found in the news.
  2. Hong Kong residents’ disposition to Hong Kong tourism development is significantly correlated with their disposition towards Mainland Chinese tourists. The more ambivalent residents are to Mainland Chinese tourists, the more ambivalent they are to tourism development.
  3. The economy, environment and quality of life have significant influences on Hong Kong residents’ dispositions towards Mainland Chinese tourists and tourism development. Specifically, the higher the GDP per capita and the worse air pollution experienced, the less positive and more ambivalent residents are to Mainland Chinese tourists; on the other hand, the higher the unemployment rate, the more positive and less ambivalent are views of Mainland Chinese tourists and tourism development.
  4. Mainland Chinese tourists’ perception of Hong Kong tourism is significantly correlated with the Hong Kong economy, environment and resident sentiment. The better the economy and environment, the more positive the tourist perception of Hong Kong; however, the more negative the resident sentiment, the less positive the Mainland Chinese tourists’ perception is of Hong Kong tourism.

It is, therefore, important to balance the interests of residents and tourists to achieve social sustainability. As a useful tool for various tourism stakeholders, the TOUROMETER allows individuals’ opinions to be heard in a timely manner so that they can be used to inform public policymaking; industry practitioners to recognise social issues, and manage risks and opportunities effectively; and government to monitor public opinions holistically, and formulate or amend policies timely. When the sentiment trends below an acceptable level, policies can be devised or revised to address the issue. The factors identified as influencing residents’ and tourists’ perceptions of Hong Kong tourism should also be monitored. Appropriate policy measures can then be taken to cultivate positive and reduce negative sentiments.

With the re-opening of the border between Hong Kong and Mainland China, the Hong Kong tourism industry is ushering in spring after a long winter. It is an opportune time to balance various stakeholders’ interests for long-term competitiveness, as only where there are happy hosts, are there happy guests. “This study provides important information to better enable the Hong Kong government to effectively support the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s tourism industry” Prof. Hsu remarked. “The SHTM is proud to be able to support the development of the tourism industry in this significant way.”

About PolyU School of Hotel and Tourism Management

For over 40 years, the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has refined a distinctive vision of hospitality and tourism education and become a world-leading hotel and tourism school. Ranked No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality and Tourism Management” category in ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2022 for the sixth consecutive year; placed No. 1 globally in the “Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services” category in the University Ranking by Academic Performance in 2021/2022 for five years in a row; rated No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism” subject area by the CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017; and ranked No. 2 in the world among university based programmes in the “Hospitality and Leisure Management” subject area in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 for the seventh consecutive year, the SHTM is a symbol of excellence in the field, exemplifying its motto of Leading Hospitality and Tourism.

The School is driven by the need to serve its industry and academic communities through the advancement of education and dissemination of knowledge. With a strong international team of over 90 faculty members from diverse cultural backgrounds, the SHTM offers programmes at levels ranging from undergraduate to doctoral degrees. Through Hotel ICON, the School’s groundbreaking teaching and research hotel and a vital aspect of its paradigm-shifting approach to hospitality and tourism education, the SHTM is advancing teaching, learning and research, and inspiring a new generation of passionate, pioneering professionals to take their positions as leaders in the hospitality and tourism industry.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sihanoukville Successfully Hosts Mekong Tourism Forum 2023

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Sihanoukville Successfully Hosts Mekong Tourism Forum 2023 - TRAVELINDEX - TOURISMMEKONG.comSihanoukville, Cambodia, May 2, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF) 2023 under the theme of “Rethinking for Resilience and Digitalization” concluded successfully at the Independence Hotel in Preah Sihanoukville, Cambodia on 26 April 2023.

Over 200 international and local delegates participated in the MTF. The event was hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia, in collaboration with the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) with support from the Asian Development Bank. The MTF also welcomed the participation of the Ambassador of Lao PDR to Cambodia, representatives from the Embassy of Japan and the Embassy of China, and senior officials from the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) countries.

MTF 2023 focused on rethinking the future of GMS tourism while leveraging digitalization to ensure resilient and inclusive growth in the post COVID-19 era. Regional tourism leaders, experts, and businesses gathered to discuss critical challenges as well as high-priority issues to chart the way forward for regional tourism.

Representing the host country, H.E. Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism, Cambodia, said in his opening remarks: “The key stakeholders from the public and private sectors gathering together today will create unique opportunities to spearhead innovative and collaborative frameworks for tourism recovery towards resilience in this post COVID-19 era and bring back what we have lost in tourism.”

“Tourism is one of the priority sectors contributing to socio-economic development through job creation, poverty reduction, investment, infrastructure development, as well as the protection and conservation of cultural heritage and natural resources,” added H.E. Mr. Kouch Chamroeun, Governor of Preah Sihanouk Province, Cambodia.

Mr. Peter Semone, Chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association, set the stage with a keynote speech on the pathway for building better and stronger tourism. Rethinking tourism for resilience and sustainability in the GMS should focus on managing and measuring tourism as an integrated ecosystem; optimizing efficiencies along the tourism value chain; treating tourism workers better; renewing the approach to entrepreneurship and innovation; facilitating the growth and prosperity of micro, small and medium enterprises; empowering communities in tourism; responding to the needs, wants and responsibilities of visitors; as well as managing the intersection of tourism and technology.

Recognizing food experiences as a critical driver of tourism growth in the GMS, a focused expert perspective session was delivered by Mr. Luu Meng, President of the Cambodia Tourism Federation (CTF), explaining holistic ways to build a sustainable food system by leveraging digital technologies.

MTF 2023 presented three insightful panel discussions on challenges, opportunities, and strategic actions related to building a smart tourism ecosystem, redefining gender roles to empower women, and enhancing the quality of the tourism workforce for a resilient future. Each panel featured a diverse pool of industry experts from the public sector, tourism businesses, and development organizations, including AirAsia, Amadeus, the Asian Development Bank, Canopy Sands Development, Swisscontact and UNWTO, among others.

Another highlight of the MTF was a sustainable tourism exhibition showcasing responsible tourism businesses from across the region that generate positive impacts on the environment and local communities. The participating exhibitors included the Cambodian Handicraft Association for Landmine and Polio Disabled (CHA), Canopy Sand, Cardamom Tented Camp, Destination Mekong, HoKa Skills Demonstration, Koh Samseb Community-Based Tourism, Song Saa Collective, SPOONS Cambodia Organization, Three Corner Coffee Roaster, the Union of Myanmar Travel Association, and the Myanmar Tourism Marketing Association.

A technical visit was arranged on 27 April for delegates to explore the natural gems of the offshore island Koh Rong. Exclusively organized for MTF delegates, the tour offered a chance to enjoy the clear waters and participate in a community-based ecotourism program involving mangrove forest planting and beach cleaning activities at Prek Koang Kang Ecotourism Community.

“As the co-organizer of MTF, I am thrilled to see a great turnout for this event. We are excited to see the profile of MTF delegates evolving and expanding, with more participation from international organizations, development partners, women-focused organizations and, importantly, local communities, including the disabled, at the grassroots level. It is our role to foster inclusive growth in the tourism sector in GMS region,” said Ms. Suvimol Thanasarakij, Executive Director of MTCO.

MTF 2023 was preceded by the 51st Meeting of the Greater Mekong Subregion Tourism Working Group (51st GMS TWG) and the MTCO Board Meeting on 25 April. MTF 2024 will be held in Lijiang, China next May.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IATA – Aviation Provides Critical Relief in Crises

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IATA - Aviation Provides Critical Relief in Crises - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25AIRLNES.comIstanbul, Turkiye, May 2, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reminded stakeholders of the critical role that aviation plays at times of natural disasters and humanitarian crises.

“When crises strike, aviation is there. Connectivity is essential to get aid and first responders to where they are needed. The response to the recent earthquake in Southern Türkiye and Syria was no exception. Airlines helped save lives in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake. And airlines continue to help accelerate the recovery with vital cargo shipments,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, as the airline industry met in Istanbul for the IATA World Cargo Symposium.

While there is no comprehensive tabulation of the support that aviation provided, a limited review of 29 key carriers serving the Türkiye market reveals an impressive relief effort. These airlines:

– Delivered over 3,500 tons of aid from over 90 countries
– Operated over 350 relief and repatriation flights to affected areas
– Provided transport for over 130,000 responders from across the world

Critical supplies delivered included winter jackets, blankets, toilets, hygiene articles, food, fire guards’ equipment, power generators, tents, water distribution ramps, flashlights, sleeping bags, and medical supplies, among other items.

Airlink provides a good example of how the aviation sector responds to crises. It is a non-profit organization that coordinates donated airline resources and NGO needs in times of humanitarian disaster. Working with its NGO and airline partners, Airlink has coordinated the transport of 1,000 tons of aid supplies to the affected area, with an additional pipeline of 300 tons.

Resilience of cities and infrastructure are key components of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SGD 9 and 11 respectively). This is tested in times of crisis when air transport’s role is both as an essential infrastructure component in its own right and a vital lifeline for communities.

“Each and every day airlines make an enormous positive contribution to humanity by connecting people, cultures, businesses and economies. This fosters economic growth and social development. When disaster strikes, these links become even more critical. Everyone in aviation can be proud of the essential supplies, critical talent and hope that planes carry to disaster affected areas. With that in mind, we encourage all our stakeholders to join us in ensuring that aviation can fulfil this role by becoming ever more safe, secure, reliable and sustainable,” said Walsh.

“Airlines have shown exceptional compassion and solidarity, delivering vital supplies and aid to affected communities around the world. During crises, we bring hope, relief, and aid, striving to rebuild lives together. I am proud to be part of an industry that makes such a difference,” said Walsh.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels is Green Seal Certified

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OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels is Green Seal Certified - TRAVELINDEXHawaii, United States, May 3, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The premier beach resort brand is the first in Fiji and Hawaii to earn Green Seal accreditation. Premier beach resort brand OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has successfully achieved Green Seal certification for key properties in Fiji and Hawaii.

OUTRIGGER is first in the State of Hawaii to earn the prestigious Green Seal designation as well as the first hospitality brand to achieve certification outside of the United States.

Green Seal is a global non-profit whose certification mark is a universal symbol that a product, cleaning service or facility meets the highest benchmark of health and environmental leadership. OUTRIGGER’s owned/managed properties that are now Green Seal certified include:

  • OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
  • OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort
  • OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel
  • OHANA Waikiki East by Outrigger
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk
  • OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa
  • OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort
  • Castaway Island, Fiji Resort

The certified OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels demonstrated that they:

  • Conserve energy with 100% energy-efficient lighting in all guestrooms and public areas and energy-efficient appliances and windows.
  • Conserve water through water-efficient landscaping, grounds-keeping measures and water-saving fixtures in guestrooms and public areas.
  • Reduce waste by minimising use of disposable food service items and seeking out reusable packaging and shipping pallets.
  • Protect human health and the environment by using housekeeping products that are free of toxic chemicals and low VOC (volatile organic compounds).
  • Are committed to stewardship by having an environmental mission and purchasing policy.

Green Seal certification is unique in its focus, not just on environmental protection, but also on health and indoor air quality. Achieving certification validated that OUTRIGGER properties create a wellness environment where guests and hosts can stay safe from allergy and asthma triggers and reduce their exposure to toxic chemicals.

Also this Earth Day, 22 April, Green Seal released its 2023 Impact Report, which included a spotlight on OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels’ commitment to culture and conservation.

“It’s clear that Green Seal offers a powerful model for collective impact, and even more clear that we have an obligation to apply it in bold new ways,” said Doug Gatlin, CEO of Green Seal. “Green Seal is meeting the moment with ambitious initiatives to address some of the most intractable health and environmental problems of our time.”

“OUTRIGGER is proud to be the first in the State of Hawaii to earn the prestigious Green Seal sustainability certification for its properties, and the first hospitality brand to pursue the certification outside of the United States in Fiji and Mauritius,” said Monica Salter VP, Global Communications & Social Responsibility at OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels. “The Green Seal designation is part of OUTRIGGER’s larger ESG plan and further solidifies our allegiance to meeting the highest standards of protecting the health and environment for its guests and hosts.”

OUTRIGGER is a pioneer for the environment. In 2014; it was the first Hawaii hospitality company to champion reef-safe sunscreen for its guests as a hands-on way to help our oceans thrive and to date, has preserved, protected and planted more than 100 football fields of coral reef fronting its global resorts through its conservation initiative OUTRIGGER Zone (OZONE).

In the last six months, OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels was a founding member for the launch of American Hotel & Lodging Association’s Responsible Stay and Global Hotel Alliance’s new Green Collection. The company introduced the OUTRIGGERCARES Volunteer Programme to foster meaningful and purposeful community engagement opportunities for its hosts.

Celebrating its 75th Anniversary this year, OUTRIGGER is implementing science-based criteria that raise the bar on sustainability; it is committed to growing the barefoot-luxury brand and investing in its people and the planet along the way.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SHARING THE LOVE: Trade offers for travel agents

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With Travel Agent Appreciation Week (and month) now in full swing, a host of suppliers and trade partners have stepped up to thank agents for the important work they do. Here is a sampling of just some of the messages, programs, events, and – most importantly – incentive offers communicated on Travel Agent Appreciation Day yesterday (May 3).

TICO

“Ontario travel agents’ passion and dedication for providing exceptional service and consumer protection to clients is truly commendable,” says the Travel Industry Council of Ontario. “Whether you’re helping someone plan their dream vacation or navigating the complexities of post-pandemic travel, TICO thanks you for all that you do.”

“It has been a challenging three years for the travel industry, but Ontario’s travel agents have proven their expertise, professionalism and commitment to their clients day after day,” says TICO’s CEO Richard Smart. “Travel agents are an integral part of Ontario’s travel consumer protection framework and play a vital role in ensuring consumers have added peace of mind as they purchase travel.”

TTC TOUR BRANDS

The TTC Tour Brands team convened in Toronto last night (May 3) to celebrate Canadian travel advisors and to thank them for their ongoing partnership across their “full house” of brands, including Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Trafalgar, Brendan Vacations, Costsaver and Contiki. Advisors were invited to enjoy a casino-themed evening of cocktails, canapes, and casino games alongside executive team members and the Canadian sales team. Melissa DaSilva – President, TTC Tour Brands, North America, who flew in from California for the event, told the dozens of agents in attendance that there was “no big announcement,” simply appreciation and a big “thank you” for TTC’s Canadian partners, especially over the past tumultuous year.

JAMAICA/ACTA

To honour travel advisors this month, the Jamaica Tourist Board, in partnership with ACTA, is offering a Business-building Workshop series May 9, 10, and 11 with three-night stay (for two) giveaways from Royalton Negril Resort, DeCameron Club Caribbean, and Secrets St. James Resort. The three hour-long virtual professional development sessions will be hosted by travel industry expert and TV host Sandra McLemore and include (all times 2-3 p.m. EDT):

  • May 9 – Planning Fees for Travel Advisors: Everything you need to know
  • May 10 – Removing the noise and overwhelm to make space for new leads
  • May 11 – Generating new leads for your business

Workshops will be administered in English and are free to attend. Register at  visitjamaica.com/canada/engage.

TOURISM IRELAND

“Travel agents are undeniably important in our business, and we would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge and express our gratitude to all our partners   across the country. Their continued engagement and passion for the Emerald Isle is evident as business is back – thanks largely in part to our travel trade urging travellers to ‘Fill their Heart with Ireland’ and book their trip in 2023,” says Tourism Ireland Canadian manager Sandra Moffatt. “We are here to offer the support and resources advisors need to sell the island.” That includes the following upcoming educational webinars (all at noon, EST):

  • May 10 – ‘Attractions Across the Island of Ireland’
  • June 7 – ‘Flavours of Ireland’
  • June 28 – ‘Explore Northern Ireland’

There is also an agent specialist program, content pool with free images to use, agent Facebook group, and monthly e-zine.

Team Tourism Ireland, Canada

And now – the incentives!

ACV

Air Canada Vacations’ month-long “You Mean the World To Us” event offers travel counsellors booking any package by May 31 (for travel through Dec. 31) a chance to win a trip for two to anywhere Air Canada flies. The prize includes roundtrip economy tickets for one agent plus a companion and includes a $2,000 accommodation voucher to anywhere that Air Canada Vacations serves. The winners will be announced on June 15, 2023. The more you book, the more you can win.

Additionally, the travel agent appreciation celebration provides a 20% discount for agents to use for their personal travel. The agent discount will be applicable to packages to Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe throughout the month of May with a travel window through Dec. 18.

GFOB

As part of its efforts to celebrate travel advisors, the Globus family of brands launched a special booking incentive to compliment its existing offers for agents: a $150 gift card for every Globus or Avalon Waterways booking made between mid-April and May 17.

In addition to this limited-time incentive for new bookings, travel advisors can earn more through GFOB’s Travel Advisor Discount Program. And, for those advisors who become an Avalon Waterways specialist, the company offers access to Suite Rewards – a program that provides them the opportunity to earn a complimentary FAM.

AFRICAN TRAVEL INC.

Travel advisors will earn a booking incentive for each new custom safari (excluding specials, Classic Safari Vacation Packages, and groups) booked with TravCorp brand African Travel Inc. (ATI), from May 1 to Dec. 15. Plus, advisors will receive up to 15% commission on land safaris and savings of up to 30% for themselves and a travel companion. When they have five plus bookings, advisors can travel with three guests. The tour operator encourages advisors to sign up for its specialist program for access to marketing and event support, educational trips, new client amenities, the Agent Academy, and the new ATI summer webinar series. To receive the travel discount advisors must be registered for the program and complete the Academy courses before travel. (www.africantravelinc.com/advisor)

COLLETTE

To celebrate Travel Advisor Appreciation Month, Collette is offering each advisor who secures at least two bookings from May 1 to June 30 a $50 incentive. Plus, the three advisors who secure the most bookings in the month of May will earn even more. The top booking advisor will win a free Spotlight tour of their choosing. Second and third place will win $2,000 and $1,000 travel vouchers respectively. The winners will be announced on May 31. Meanwhile, the tour operator notes that agents receive a 50% discount on tours, with companions receiving 25% year-round for personal travel.

ROYAL IRISH TOURS

In celebration of Travel Agent Appreciation Month, Royal Irish Tours (RIT) has revealed an incentive for travel counsellors in May: every booking in May will be added to a draw to win a grand prize of an eight-day familiarization trip to Ireland or Scotland in 2023/24. Multiple bookings mean multiple entries in the draw.

KARISMA HOTELS & RESORTS

Karisma Hotels & Resorts is celebrating travel agents all month long with the introduction of a travel agent advisory board, weekly scavenger hunts with prizes, and incentives for new bookings. Virtual scavenger hunts will occur each week, and participating agents can win a $250 gift card. A questionnaire will be distributed weekly via email, closing each Friday at midnight. Those who complete all four scavenger hunts will also be entered to win a $1000 gift card grand prize.

As an added incentive, new bookings made for Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts and the Margaritaville brand before July 31 for travel between May 15-Dec. 15 will receive Double Gourmet Inclusive points when registered by the agent in their account via Karisma’s travel agent portal.

SILVERSEA CRUISES

Silversea Cruises has introduced a new incentive for Travel Partner Appreciation Month: When travel advisors make a new confirmed booking on any expedition cruise during the months of May and June, they will automatically be entered into a weekly prize draw for a chance to win a gift card. One winner will be selected for each week in May and June. In addition, the cruise line notes its introduction of kicker commissions in early 2023, whereby Silversea is offering agents an extra 1% kicker commission on all expedition cruises, an extra 1% on all new-to-brand guests, and an extra 1% an all new-to-repeat guests (guests who book for a second time with Silversea through the same agency).

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

JEEZ BELIZE – It’s ‘Caribbean with a twist!’

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Bounteous Belize, a colourful combo of Central America and the Caribbean,
is reporting a positive outlook for its tourism sector and expects to come close to full post-pandemic recovery this year, in part with the help of the Canadian market.

Belize’s Director of Tourism, Evan Tillett, says that despite challenges from the global health crisis, Belize registered 75% of its 2019 numbers in 2022, and is projecting to finish the current year at around 90% of its 2019 tally, with growth predicted for 2024 and 2025.

Tillett believes key factors driving Belize’s tourism industry include the diversity of its product, Belize’s focus on sustainability, and its commitment to offering an authentic, experiential product that showcases its culture and natural assets, which Belizeans describe as “wealth untold.”

Speaking at the recent Routes Americas air route development conference, Tillet told attendees, “Belize is one of the most diverse destinations on the planet in a very small space. We have 8,867 sq. m., and we have not only the sun, the beach, but we have an authentic product. We have basically what the new post-COVID tourist is looking for.”

Belize is home to the largest living barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, three of the four atolls in the Caribbean, and an extensive cave system. Add Mayan history and a cultural melting pot, and the destination has something for everyone, from adventure seekers to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

In terms of accommodations, Tillett emphasized that Belize has a wide range of options, from budget-friendly “mom and pop” operations to the Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection, which opened in 2021. Additionally, a Margaritaville is expected in 2023, Four Seasons Resort and Residences (2024), and other properties in the pipeline demonstrate the country’s commitment to expanding its accommodation offerings.

“Belize is in the western Caribbean and on the outskirts, but we are considered the Caribbean basin in Central America, and so it’s important that we sell the Caribbean for what we all offer. We have beaches, but we have different products that will allow us to be competitive with the world,” Tillett added.

Canada

Cruise lines have also returned to Belize, and Tillett says air prospects from North America look solid.

That includes Canada, which features direct seasonal flights from Air Canada and WestJet serving the peak December to March tourism period. Other connecting flights are available, such as Copa through Panama City.

On a recent a visit to Toronto, BTB branding and hospitality specialist Jana Puga told Travel Industry Today that Canada is an important market for Belize, and is a destination that “ticks all the boxes” for the interests of many Canadians: sustainable, active, experiential and authentic.

Indeed, authenticity is a hallmark of the destinations, she says, stating. “We’re not Cancun, we’re not mass market.”

She compares Belize today – “unspoiled and preserved” – to the Costa Rica of 20 years ago, adding, “You don’t feel like a tourist – you feel like you live there.”

Visitors can easily engage and mingle with locals, she says, not least due to the boutique- and lodge-style accommodation sector.

Visitors – or snowbirds, of which Belize attracts more than 11,000 Canadians a year – can also hop into a rental car and travel around via a developed road system. English is widely spoken (it is the only English-speaking country is the Central America).

A former British colony that achieved independence in 1981, the country exhibits its English influence most prominently in Belize City, whereas Creole culture flourishes in rural areas.

Puga says most Canadians will combine a beach stay with an active vacation in the interior, which includes jungle habitat combined with Mayan archeological sites and an extensive system of caves. Many cultural programs, such as homestays, Maya immersion, chocolate making, dancing, music, and drumming, can be availed.

Throughout the year, festivals across the country abound, such as Punta Gorda’s chocolate festival each May, and in summer, lobster festivals in coastal locales. The International Music and Food Festival is a two-day summer extravaganza that showcases local and international musical artists, with genres ranging from Reggae, Afro-Beats, Dancehall, Soca, Punta, and Latin beats, as well as exceptional local cuisine on Belize’s biggest island, and most prominent beach resort, Ambergris Caye.Sustainability, Puga emphasizes, is not taken lightly in Belize, and is ingrained into the DNA of Belizeans.

Indeed, more than half of Belize is blanketed in thick jungles, forests and nature preserves and the country has 103 protected areas, featuring a wealth of biodiversity.

Notable among them is Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, which is comprised of 121,000 hectares and home to sublime Big Rock Falls.

In 2021, a major deal was confirmed where Belize will be able to protect 30% of its ocean territory, which includes the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features 500-plus species of fish and nearly 300 km. of coral reef. The region is a mecca for divers and snorkellers worldwide.

With such an emphasis on the environment and sustainability, overtourism is not an issue in the country, says Puga.

“Belize,” she concludes, “has an island feel. There are great beaches, but much more. It’s Caribbean with twist.”

Specialist program

Meanwhile, the BTB has relaunched the North American version of the Belize Specialist Program. Available through the Online Travel Training (OTT) platform, the free online course features a new look with the same content re-structured into a more concise format of four 30-minute modules.

In addition to the re-structured content, a Trade Resource Center has been added to the program, where travel advisors can download e-brochures, request high-resolution images and videos to use as a selling tool, submit FAM inquiries, subscribe to Belize Tourism Board’s e-newsletters, and request Zoom destination presentations for groups conducted by the Belize travel trade team. A list of tour operator partners that sell packages to Belize has also been added to the program as a quick reference for travel advisors.

The platform also includes a section that links to the new travel advisor rewards program: unBelizeableRewards.com. Participation in the Belize Rewards program is available to all travel agencies and travel advisors and reporting Belize bookings translates into redeemable Points for FAM trips with partner hotels and select merchandise.

Upon completion of the program, travel advisors will receive the following perks:

• Printable certificate of completion
• Belize Specialist Logo to use on business cards, email signatures, and website
• Access to quarterly trade newsletters
• Special invitation to attend Belize-hosted trade events
• Priority Considerations for FAMs

The program is currently available in English, French, German, and Dutch.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

TAT and AIS Stimulate Southern Region Tourism with “Amazing Thailand Amazing Deals”

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TAT and AIS Stimulate Southern Region Tourism with "Amazing Thailand Amazing Deals"Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT.) joins hands with AIS to launch a campaign named “Amazing Thailand Amazing Deals”. Together with southern region establishments, the campaign presents special deals and exclusive discounts to foreign tourists and Expat group.

Mr. Somchai Chomphunoi, the director of the southern region has talked about the circumstance of tourism in southern Thailand that it has started to recover after suffering a setback during the COVID-19 outbreak. Nowadays, many establishments have reopened its business again. A sign of the southern tourism industry recovery could be seen since the government eased the COVID-19 regulations, followed by Phuket Sandbox campaign launching and Thailand’s official reopening; all of which are an important factor that makes Thailand become a dream destination for tourists all over the world.

Therefore, in order to stimulate the tourism market in southern region to expand continuously, TAT has joined hands with Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited (AIS) and various establishments in southern region: hotels and accommodation, restaurants, spas, beauty salons, tourism activities & local communities, launching a campaign named “Amazing Thailand Amazing Deals”. The campaign provides exclusive special deals to foreign tourists and Expat group on the website: www.tourismthailand.org/thailandamazingdeals.

Tourists who want to enjoy their trips in the south of Thailand to the fullest may obtain their preferred special deals on the website until 31st May 2023.

For more information, visit www.tourismthailand.org/thailandamazingdeals.