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PATA Signs MOU with the Pacific Tourism Organisation

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PATA signs MOU with the Pacific Tourism Organisation - TRAVELINDEXSuva, Fiji Islands, April 24, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), to promote and strengthen shared interests between the two organisations in the areas of market access, innovative events, membership and communications to name a few.

PATA Chair Peter Semone expressed his delight about this partnership between the two organisations and highlighted that PATA is thrilled to partner with SPTO in implementing these exciting development opportunities to encourage advocacy marketing and communication, insightful market research, and innovative events for its member organisations.

“PATA is looking forward to further connecting with SPTO on these areas of cooperation for travel and tourism within the Asia Pacific region. This connection will provide more opportunities to host international events, share market insights and enable us to promote the Pacific region to a globally connected audience. Keeping the P in PATA is imperative to us,” Mr Semone said.

In acknowledging the importance of the MoU, SPTO CEO Christopher Cocker highlighted the potential to establish important public-private partnerships, to strengthen the development of the travel and tourism industry in Asia and the Pacific.

“We welcome this partnership with PATA as it aligns with the innovative partnerships component of SPTO’S Strategic Plan 2020-2024. Between our two organisations, there is a wealth of diverse membership and wider stakeholders. We recognize this partnership as an opportunity to bring our stakeholders and resources together to revitalize our progress towards the sustainable growth of travel and tourism in Asia and the Pacific”, he said.

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 official offices or representation in Beijing and London.

About SPTO
Established in 1983 as the Tourism Council of the South Pacific, the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) is the mandated organisation representing Tourism in the region. Its 21 Government members are American Samoa, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Nauru, Marshall Islands, New Caledonia, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Rapa Nui, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor Leste, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu Wallis and Futuna, and the People’s Republic of China. In addition to government members, the Pacific Tourism Organisation also enlists a private sector membership base.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO and Global Tourism Economic Forum Plan Stronger Collaboration

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UNWTO and Global Tourism Economic Forum with Stronger Collaboration - TRAVELINDEX - VISITMACAO.orgLisbon, Portugal, April 22, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and the Global Tourism Economic Forum (GTEF) have outlined their plans for stronger and closer collaboration.

Since the first Forum was held in 2012, the two organizations have partnered around promoting closer links between governments and tourism’s private sector. Building on this success, UNWTO and GTEF have announced plans for a revamped and enhanced annual Forum to coincide with the 10th anniversary of the event in Macao, China (21 September). The location of subsequent Forums will then alternate between Macau and a different host country, to be jointly selected by UNWTO and GTEF.

UNWTO and GTEF: Partners in Tourism Leadership

• In 2022, UNWTO and the Global Tourism Economic Forum (GTEF) celebrated 10 years of
close collaboration.
• UNWTO is the United Nations Specialized Agency for tourism for development – with 165
Member States and a global network of Affiliate Members from the private sector, academia, and destinations.
• GTEF enjoys the support of the Chinese Government and is established as a leading tourism platform, bringing together the sector’s global public and private sector leaders.

UNWTO is proud to work with the Global Tourism Economic Forum to unite governments and private sector leaders and address the biggest challenges and opportunities facing our sector today

Announcing the plans in Lisbon, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “UNWTO is proud to work with the Global Tourism Economic Forum to unite governments and private sector leaders and address the biggest challenges and opportunities facing our sector today. We look forward to building on our successful partnership in 2023 and beyond.”

Pansy Ho, Vice Chairman and Secretary-General, GTEF, said: “In response to China’s policies in supporting enterprises to ‘go global’, we will stage the GTEF, an international platform, overseas every other year. Looking forward to the future, we believe that mainland China, Macao, and even the world can benefit from the event.”

UNWTO and GTEF: The Next 10 Years

• From 2023, the Global Tourism Economic Forum will be held alternately between Macau and a different host country. UNWTO will support GTEF in selecting host countries.
• The Forum’s status as a top global platform for tourism policy and knowledge exchange is
set to be further enhanced.
• The Forum will lead the way in promoting collaboration between Governments and the
private sector, with a focus on tourism sustainability and resilience.

Tourism for Business and Development

The 10th edition of GTEF will be held around the theme of “Destination 2030: Unlocking Tourism for Business and Development”. It will bring together Governments as well as leaders from across the public and private sectors to further establish the Forum as the premier annual event for public-private partnerships and tourism for business growth and development.

Also in Lisbon, UNWTO signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Global Tourism Economy Research Centre (GTERC), the coordinator of GTEF, to work together to identify areas of future cooperation. Joining UNWTO Secretary-General Pololikashvili for the announcement were Ho Iat Seng, Chief Executive of Macao SAR; Zhao Bentang, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Portuguese Republic, and Nuno Fazenda, Secretary of State for Tourism, Trade and Services, Portugal.

Tourism Today: Recovering and Transforming

• Tourism is bouncing back from the impacts of the pandemic (the worst crisis in the history of the sector).
• UNWTO data shows global international tourist arrivals returned to approximately 80% of
pre-pandemic (2019) levels at the end of 2022. Near-complete recovery (95%) expected by the end of this year.
• The re-opening of China to tourism “the final piece in tourism’s recovery” (UNWTO). China is world’s biggest tourism source market: In 2019, Chinese tourists spent a collective US$255 billion on international travel.
• UNWTO is leading the transformation of tourism around greater sustainability, inclusivity and resilience. Priorities include: promoting investment in tourism; jobs, training and education, tourism climate action; tourism governance.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Nguyen Anh Minh Vietnam’s First Faldo Series Asia Champion

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Nguyen Anh Minh Vietnam's First Faldo Series Asia Champion - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25GOLFCOURSES.comLang Co, Vietnam, April 24, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Vietnam’s Nguyen Anh Minh turned up the heat in the sun to win the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final in sizzling style in Central Vietnam this week.

As heatwave conditions sent temperatures soaring, a final round of 67 saw Minh take top honors as one of the world’s most celebrated junior circuits returned to Laguna Golf Lang Co, the home hub of the Faldo Series Asia since 2017.

Minh (16) made history by becoming the first Vietnamese to emerge as the Faldo Series Asia Champion. He closed out Isaac Lam from Hong Kong, China, his nearest challenger, by five strokes.

Further back, Vietnamese youngster Le Khanh Hung was tied with Yung-Cheng Lo of Taiwan in third place. Other Vietnamese in the top ten were Nguyen Dang Minh (8th) and Nguyen Duc Son (9th).

Minh was a model of consistency throughout the 54-hole stroke-play tournament which featured talented youngsters from eight different Asian nations. And his incredible performance was hailed by UK legend Sir Nick Faldo, the Faldo Series founder and course designer of the championship venue Laguna Golf Lang Co.

“Minh was immense out there,” said Faldo. “It has been very hot the last week and conditions were extremely tough. So to put on a consistent show like that was awe-inspiring. His determination and the skill and talent shown by all the competitors who took part bodes well for the junior game in Vietnam and Asia.”

Minh and other age category winners will head to Abu Dhabi to battle it out with elite junior golfers from around the world at the Faldo Junior Tour Europe Grand Final to be held in November at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club in the UAE.

Inaugurated by Faldo after his victory at the 1996 US Masters, the Faldo Series is recognized as the only global amateur series for boys and girls. Competitors from ages 12 to 21 can test themselves against the very best juniors around the world.

The Series has been a proven success as a pathway for players to reach the game’s top levels, with over 70 Faldo Series competitors now playing on professional tours. Notable alumni include Major winners Rory McIlroy, Danny Willett and Yani Tseng, as well as other familiar names including Tyrell Hatton, Joaquin Niemann, Eddie Pepperell, Li Haotong, Mel Reid, Carly Booth, and Nasa Hataoka.

The global junior series expanded into Asia in 2006 recognizing the vast potential of the Asian junior golf circuit. Since then, Laguna Lang Co has played a central role in the initiative as the host venue for the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final: a reflection of its status as a Sir Nick Faldo Signature course, an elite category among Faldo designs.

“Our long-term status as the home hub for the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final reflects our support for the junior game in Vietnam and throughout Asia,” said Adam Calver Director of Golf and Destination Marketing at Laguna Lang Co. “Therefore, it’s fantastic to see a Vietnamese Champion and strong performances from other Vietnamese juniors claiming four of the top 10 spots. The future for golf in Vietnam is looking very bright.”

This week’s grand final was the culmination of a process that saw boys and girls aged between 12 and 21 compete at the Faldo Series Asia events for World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points.

“The Faldo Series is widely recognized as one of the world’s most important showcases for young players,” added Calver. “The future well-being of the game depends on the development of youngsters, and Asia has great potential to develop champions of the future. Therefore, we are honored to be at the vanguard of these efforts alongside Sir Nick Faldo.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Hotels International Goes Green in Southeast Asia

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Meliá Hotels International Goes Green in Southeast Asia - TRAVELINDEXHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam, April 24, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / As Spain’s leading hotel group, Meliá Hotels International, continues to expand its presence throughout Asia the company is making sure to bring the passion and flair Spain is known for – especially when it comes to protecting the environment.

Earlier this year the group announced the achievement of the highest overall rating in the global hotel industry in the 2023 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA), an assessment of the performance in sustainability of over 7,800 companies around the world.

In Southeast Asia the penchant for environmental initiatives runs deep with a host of initiatives, partnerships, and hands-on programs at properties from Vietnam to Indonesia.

Below are a few highlights that showcase how the brand is ensuring future travelers can enjoy the beauty of these destinations for generations to come.

Indonesia

While digitization is becoming more commonplace in the hospitality industry, Gran Meliá Jakarta is taking all things electronic one step further. In addition to introducing a Meliá app to cut down on paper collateral and streamline processes, and offering a QR code for menus, the luxury hotel, in the heart of the busy metropolis, has introduced electric car charging stations and switched all lighting to LED. INNSiDE Yogyakarta is also embracing the increase in digital demand by offering key information and menus via smartphone. Meliá Bali, the group’s first hotel in Asia, which opened in the ‘80s, makes use of the abundant natural surroundings with an organic vegetable garden, honey-producing beehives, and microgreens corner. The oceanfront resort has partnered with the Nusa Dua Reef Foundation for a coral restoration project, which guests can get involved in, ecollabo8 for repurposing plastic into usable items – including a table in their kids club, ChopValue Indonesia for repurposing chopsticks and satay sticks into coasters, and Soap for Hope, which offers a sanitary method of repurposing used soap. The property is now plastic-free with everything from bin liners to amenity wrappers being swapped out for biodegradable alternatives. Even the takeaway coffee cups are now compostable. Sol by Meliá Benoa Bali is mitigating food waste through Scholars of Sustenance, a program that helps feed the island’s most in need communities, and helping educate guests through their Cleaning Blitzes.

Earth Day Activities: For Earth Day Sol by Meliá Benoa Bali will host a beach Cleaning Blitz with guests having the opportunity to join. On Saturday there will be a host of activities around Earth Day. Craft activities for kids include bag painting with an Earth Day theme and adults can make torches using waste cooking oil.

Vietnam

Meliá’s most expansive presence in Asia is within Vietnam with a myriad of hotels spread from north to south. Several properties have launched their own organic gardens, including Willow’s Garden in Meliá Ho Tram and the Balansa Organic Garden at Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat. Many properties have partnered with Diversey, a global cleaning and hygiene products manufacturer, on programs such as PlasticShreds, which converts single-use plastic into plastic chips that are then combined with other materials to be upcycled into a variety of uses, from new roads to badminton courts; along with Linens For Life and Soap for Hope. Both initiatives involve transforming materials, such as leftover soap and old linen, into new (sterilized) soap bars and products for people in need, including all-purpose bags, sleeping bags, soft toys for children, and school uniforms. Plastic is being eliminated, whether it be bottles or amenity wrappings, and Sol by Meliá Phu Quoc has installed a 20-liter water tank in each room, along with two reusable glass bottles, so guests can keep topping up their own water supply without going through multiple bottles.

Earth Day Activities: At Meliá Ho Tram children and adults alike can take part in complimentary eco-themed activities including Earth Rock Painting at 11am and Recycled Paper Crafts at 3pm at the resort’s Elyxr Cafe. At Meliá Ba Vi guests can take part in tree planting activities on April 22nd.

Thailand

With three properties in the country and one more opening this year Meliá is cementing its presence in the popular tourist destination while trying to keep a light footprint. All properties have gone paperless with necessary information and menus available via QR code. For hotel supplies that are printed novel approaches are used, such as recycled banana leaves in Meliá Phuket Mai Khao and wooden folders with fabric from a local village in Meliá Chiang Mai. The pineapples in Phuket are used for more than just delicious desserts. The cleaning team uses a natural detergent made from pineapple peel. While the pineapple tops, which will eventually grow into a new pineapple, are used as table decorations throughout the property. Both Meliá Chiang Mai and Meliá Koh Samui have organic vegetable gardens, with Meliá Chiang Mai implementing a 360-degree approach with its farm on the outskirts of town and Meliá Phuket Mai Khao recently expanding its organic vegetable patch. Melia Chiang Mai also works with suppliers to ensure other vegetable deliveries come by basket and food waste that doesn’t got back to their organic farm as compost goes to a local pig farm. Meliá Phuket Mai Khao and Meliá Koh Samui have implemented wellness retreat programs, supporting mind, body and spirit, and also encouraging guests to interact with nature more. A prominent tree at Meliá Phuket Mai Khao features a “hug me” sign with a QR code giving hugging instructions to guests.

Myanmar

In Myanmar, Meliá Yangon has gone solar with the addition of roof solar panels to heat their hot water tanks. The city hotel isn’t letting the central location damper its farming ambitions and the hotel has its own organic vegetable garden located on the third floor. The Yangon team are actively involved in community programs such as Linen for Life, where they made 4,000 masks by upcycling old bed sheets and unusable uniforms into fabric, and through visiting local elderly homes and youth centres to provide support.

Malaysia

Meliá’s newest hotel in the region, INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras, opened on March 25 with a host of eco-measures already in place, including wheat straw combs and toothbrushes, yoga mats made from cork, and solar-powered LED lighting.

Earth Day Activities: On April 22nd INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras will begin planting a poolside vegetable garden with lemongrass, pandan leaves, chili, mint and tomatoes that will be watered by recycled rain water and will eventually supply the kitchen.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: April 17-21, 2023

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Strike news affecting travel abounded last week – including news that flights at Berlin Brandenburg are cancelled today (April 24); there was also big news from Air Canada, Sunwing deals, a Holland America Line milestone, and ACTA revealing Travel Agent Day plans in a couple of weeks.

NEWS

Berlin Brandenburg airport reports no departures will take place today (Monday) due to a strike by security workers. The German airport warns that arriving flights may be affected as well. The job action follows walkouts in Duesseldorf, Hamburg, Cologne-Bonn, and Stuttgart late last week, which resulted in 700 cancelled departures.

Less than a week before the end of conciliation, WestJet pilots sent “a strong message” to WestJet management with an overwhelming vote of support for a strike, should a negotiated settlement not be reached by May 16. The union representing WestJet pilots, the Air Line Pilots Association, says 95% of its members voted and 93% voted to strike if needed. WestJet said, “A strike authorization vote is a common step by unions in context of the overall labour negotiation process and does not mean a strike will occur.”

Canadian passport renewals were largely halted (except emergencies) when federal public service workers went on strike Wednesday. Employment and Social Development Canada said essential services such as employment insurance and social insurance numbers will be maintained, but passport services are not deemed essential.

A parliamentary committee has recommended sweeping changes to Canada’s air passenger rights framework, stressing tougher enforcement and compensation rules around flight delays. The report comes after chaotic travel seasons over the summer and winter holidays brought on by soaring demand, labour shortages and poor weather. Its 21 recommendations include bigger monetary penalties, smoother processing of compensation claims and automatic payout offers after cancellations, significant delays, or denial of boarding.

Consumers who purchased Interjet Airlines travel services from an Ontario registered travel agency or booking website and did not receive their travel services due to the closure of the airline, may file a claim from the Compensation Fund for reimbursement, reports TICO. The airline ceased operations on Dec. 11, 2020, and was declared bankrupt on April 10, 2023.

BY THE NUMBERS

At US$1.2 trillion, direct spending on travel in the United States in 2022 was on par with pre-pandemic figures, according to new data released by the US Travel Association. Travel accounted for $1.2 trillion in direct spending in 2022, which produced an economic footprint of $2.6 trillion and supported nearly 15 million American workers – 8 million directly employed by the travel industry. Travel-generated tax revenue alleviated an average of $1,270 in taxes per US household.

AIR

Air Canada has announced its New Distribution Capabilities (NDC) program, featuring new benefits, expanded content and additional trade support for agencies and travel buyers. The airline says the program will provide a competitive alternative to legacy distribution, giving agents access to Air Canada inventory, fares, ancillary services, ticketing, and digital products.

Porter Airlines is extending a special offer to all frequent WestJet travellers that provides immediate access to its VIPorter loyalty program Avid Traveller membership. The Avid Traveller level granted will be based on the current WestJet rewards level. Travellers interested in matching their status will receive a trial VIPorter Avid Traveller membership for 120 days with the ability to maintain that level through Dec. 31, 2024, based on achieving a reduced qualifying spend threshold. Every dollar spent on Porter, excluding taxes and fees, is applied to the spend goal. The offer expires May 31; details on Porter’s website.

Officials with Vancouver International Airport are promising new real-time weather monitoring equipment, gate protocols and better communication after releasing a review of the travel chaos caused by snow last December. The review, which also took into account direct feedback from over 1,500 passengers and members of the public identified 25 actions that the airport says will be addressed in a $40-million action plan.

DEALS

New York City Tourism + Conventions has announced the return of ‘It’s Time for Culture’ with offerings at nearly 100 cultural organizations across all five boroughs, available May 9-21. The program, comprising seasonal events, concerts, tours, classes, family-friendly programs and more, kicks off the unofficial start of the New York City summer cultural season. A full list of organizations and offerings are available at nyctourism.com/timeforculture.

TOURS

Quark Expeditions has announced a brand-new cutting-edge Greenland itinerary constructed around Ultramarine’s two twin-engine helicopters – and brought to life with local Greenlandic partners, enabling guests to experience what Quark is calling the most innovative itinerary in its 32-year history. The 11-day ‘Greenland Explorer: Sail and Soar the Alpine Arctic’ will launch in 2024 and feature such activities as an Inuit culinary experience, camping along the Tasemiut Fjord, northern lights and cultural immersion, and plenty of helicopter flights and activities such as heli-hiking (photo).

Sunwing is aiming to bring the “feel good spirit of summer” to life with new deals, giveaways, as well as social media via content creators Clive Felice and Anthony Tran. “Through thoughtful questions and sharp wit, Clive and Antho will help Sunwing bring feel-good moments from the city streets to paradise in a variety of fun and dynamic ways,” says the tour operator. Check out their first videos at https://www.instagram.com/p/CrONoXLxNiL/ and https://www.instagram.com/p/CrOUNJeA0c3/. Sunwing will also feature a lineup of promotions and hot deals to hotter destinations, including deals under $999 deals on packages to Cuba during the tour operator’s ‘Summer Starts Now Sale.’

HOTELS

Going on a Beatles or football pilgrimage to Liverpool? IHG Hotels & Resorts is introducing its Vignette Collection to the UK with the signing of The Halyard at Ropewalks Liverpool in partnership with Molo Hotels. Opening later this year, the 133-key luxury hotel is set in the historic Ropewalks district in the heart of the city, boasting a restaurant, on-site gym, and roof top terrace that will further boost the area’s reputation as a gastronomic hub.

To kick off the 2023 baseball season, the InterContinental Toronto Centre, located beside Rogers Centre, is offering a ‘Stay and Dine’ package to get sports fans fueled for the game. The package offers guests a $100 credit for food and beverages.

RESORTS

St. James’s Club Morgan Bay St. Lucia has closed for extensive enhancements. During this full closure, the resort will undergo a brand change to Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa, with a planned reopening date in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Renovations and additions to the Club Med Punta Cana resort will begin in August. Built in 1978, the resort will see 90 newly renovated family rooms, including 48 brand-new Family Superior rooms and 36 Family Deluxe rooms, as well as a complete transformation of the resort’s main oceanfront restaurant, Hispaniola, into a venue that resembles a Caribbean Beach Bistro inspired by Punta Cana’s vibrant art, music, and culture. Additionally, the resort will welcome a new on-site wedding venue that can accommodate up to 250 guests and will feature a covered outdoor terrace ideal for tropical cocktail hours, receptions, and ceremonies.

CRUISE

The MSC Meraviglia arrived at her new homeport in New York City at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. The arrival of the ship marks the first time MSC Cruises has deployed a ship in New York operating year-round sailings with a mix of itineraries, ranging from six-to 11-nights, that were strategically designed to take advantage of New York’s geographic flexibility, so that guests can soak up the sun in the Caribbean during the spring and winter seasons, head to Bermuda during the summer, or go north to see Canada’s natural beauty in the autumn.

Holland America Line’s flagship Rotterdam arrived at the Port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, April 18, following a 150th Anniversary crossing from Fort Lauderdale. The ship’s arrival on the exact date of Holland America Line’s 150th birthday kicked off all-day celebrations that included royalty, local dignitaries, port officials and guests who commemorated the special day. “The celebration of 150 years is about more than our history, it’s about how we are building on the legacy of a great brand to make it relevant for the next 150 years,” said HAL President Gus Antorcha.

ATTRACTIONS

The Global Tourism Film Festival 2023 kicks off this week (April 27-30) in North Bay, Ont. with organizers noting that special programming will take place that recognizes film, accomplishment, and advancement of Indigenous Peoples, People of Colour, and Women in film and tourism. Notable will be the presentation of the the award-winning indigenous feature film ‘Monkey Beach’ by filmmaker L. Sarah Todd. For full details and other festival information, visit HERE.

The Ontario Science Centre will be moving to a revamped Ontario Place on Toronto’s waterfront. Premier Doug Ford unveiled plans for the next stage of a redeveloped Ontario Place that includes the new location for the science centre, an expanded amphitheatre, a public beach, bars, restaurants, a new marina, and a massive spa. Construction on the new science centre will begin in 2025 with its opening scheduled for 2028, the science centre said.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

With its ‘Spring into ’24 Groups Only’ incentive, Goway is offering travel agents a $100 bonus cash on all group bookings for travel in 2024 in addition to regular rewards on group bookings with the GowayPro Loyalty Program. The incentive is available on all group bookings (excluding air only) deposited through May 13, 2023, for travel in 2024.

Agents who book their clients a Blue Diamond Resorts vacation package with Sunwing at participating properties with Royalton Luxury Resorts, Mystique by Royalton, Grand Memories Resorts & Spa, Memories Resorts & Spa and Starfish Resorts in Cuba by April 30, for departures between through Oct. 31, will be automatically entered for a chance to win a free seven-night stay at Memories Jibacoa in Varadero or Villa Caprice in Cayo Largo. Clients are also eligible for special perks during the promotion.

EVENTS

As part of Travel Agent Day events, ACTA is inviting all agents to take part in a session with trained trauma expert and educator Dr. Erin Watson, who has over 20 year’s experience developing and leading psycho-educational programs to support mental, emotional, and inter-personal health of individuals, families, and communities. Those who participate will be eligible to win a four-night stay for two at the new Sandals Dunn’s River Resort, Jamaica courtesy of Sandals Resorts including air for two courtesy of Air Canada. The event takes place May 3 from 3 to 4 p.m. EDT. Register HERE.

Ensemble Summit will take place from June 4-7 at the Forbes Five-Star Stein Eriksen Lodge in Utah. As a high-level executive getaway, the event will host

Ensemble agency management and senior partner leaders to focus on business building, fuel collaboration, and harness the collective knowledge of the participants to support and foster growth within the participants’ respective companies.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Airline and travel industry veteran Adam Wilcox has been appointed Commercial Director Canada and the United States for Plaza Premium Group, responsible for planning, developing, and implementing the commercial strategies in Canada and the US the Group’s portfolio brands, which includes Plaza Premium Lounges.

DESTINATIONS

The glittering world of the Georgian court comes head-to-head with the high glamour of the modern-day red carpet in a new exhibition at Kensington Palace – famously a stage set for historic fashion – in London (photo). ‘Crown to Couture’ sees contemporary couture worn by high profile celebrities including Lizzo and Lady Gaga, displayed alongside historic costume – drawing fascinating parallels between the world of the red carpet and the world of the Royal Court in the eighteenth century. The largest exhibition ever staged at the palace, over 200 fascinating objects are on display across the glittering State Apartments and intimate exhibition spaces. The exhibition runs until Oct. 29.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1912, the British luxury liner “RMS Titanic” sank in the North Atlantic off Newfoundland at 2:20 a.m. ship’s time, more than 2 1/2 hours after striking an iceberg; 1,514 people died, while less than half as many survived.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Book 01 night and get 01 night FREE at Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort

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Book 01 night and get 01 night FREE at Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort - TRAVELINDEXChiang Rai, Thailand, April 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Take advantage of this exclusive offer only available for weekday stays (Sun – Thurs) booked on selected Wednesdays.

Book 01 night and get 01 night FREE with a “Wonder Wednesday” stay  at Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort

Rate starts from THB 6,600 net per 02 nights including breakfast for 02 persons in Deluxe Garden View room.

  • Booking on 26 April and 03, 10, 17, 24 May 2023 only!
  • For stays from 26 April – 31 May 2023

For more information or reservation, please visit link

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts
Born in 1960s Paris during an era of glamorous travel, Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts continues to celebrate cultures around the world through the distinctly European spirit of savouring the good life.   With over 100 hotels and resorts in 30+ countries and territories, spanning from Mauritius to Monaco and from Santa Monica to Sichuan, Le Méridien’s engaging mid-century designed spaces coupled with chic signature programmes put a playful twist on art, coffee, sparkling cocktails, summer and family and inspire creative-minded travellers to explore the world in style. Stay connected to Le Méridien on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Le Méridien is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Anam Mui Ne Recognised Among World’s Top Boutique Resorts

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The Anam Mui Ne Recognised Among World's Top Boutique Resorts - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comMui Ne, Vietnam, April 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Anam Mui Ne, a remarkable new resort with a design inspired by the Indochine era, has joined an exclusive selection of the globe’s leading boutique independent luxury properties – the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) portfolio.

The resort, which opened on January 11 this year on Mui Ne beach, is the only Vietnamese property to join SLH, deemed “the most desirable community of independently minded travellers and independently spirited hotels in the world”.

Hotels must undergo a stringent vetting process and conform to the highest standards of luxury and guest wellbeing before being accepted into the SLH’s “characterful collection of intimate spaces in unusual places”.

Headquartered in London with offices worldwide, SLH represents 520 hotels in more than 90 countries that are “anti-chain and anti-same” and “offer secluded, discrete options”. Benefits for SLH’s travelling members include discounts on bookings, early check in and late check out, complimentary breakfast and room upgrades, and more.

The Anam Mui Ne’s founder and owner Pham Van Hien said he and the resort’s team were thrilled to be recognized by such a prestigious group that shared his passion for “an intimate, classic and distinctly Vietnamese hotel brand that is a welcome counterpoint to the industrialized hotel chains.”

“It is an absolute honour to join SLH and for The Anam Mui Ne, crafted by age-old artisans from across Vietnam, to be recognized as the collection’s first Vietnamese property,” said Mr Hien.

The recent appointment of The Anam Group’s group general manager Laurent Myter as a member of the International Advisory Board of Hoteliers for SLH’s APAC region marks the first time that a representative from Vietnam has had a seat on the advisory board. He was previously an executive director and the president of SLH’s International Advisory Board of Hoteliers for three years and two years respectively.

Perched on 1.2 hectares of spectacular oceanfront, the independently owned and operated resort is blazing new ground in Mui Ne, a popular beach town within an easy commute from Ho Chi Minh City. With 127 elegant rooms and suites, two restaurants and a bar, a five-treatment-room spa, two spacious swimming pools – one freshwater and the other saltwater – a ballroom, conference rooms, water sports center, fitness center, yoga room, kid’s club, gift shop and more, The Anam Mui Ne is redefining the benchmarks of an upscale experience at Mui Ne.

Borrowing deeply from the templates of architecture inspired by the grand old French villas in Hanoi and the garden homes of Central Vietnam, the resort pays homage to both colonial-era and classic Vietnamese aesthetics. To wit, the customized encaustic mosaic tiles, Cham decorative vases and statues on plinths, teak furniture crafted from sustainable forests, stone from Thanh Hoa and Nghe An, and authentic thatched roofs from Binh Thuan.

The Anam Mui Ne is preceded by the 2017 launch of The Anam Cam Ranh, that’s been lauded by some of the industry’s highest accolades including placement among Asia’s top resorts in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards in 2021 and 2020.

The Anam Mui Ne has a ban on single-use plastics and has implemented an array of measures to reduce its carbon footprint ranging from solar power and locally sourced ingredients. Laundry water is recycled to water the gardens. Straws, bags and bathroom amenities are biodegradable. The resort’s eco-friendly key cards are also made from wood that’s been sourced from sustainably managed forests.

About The Anam Group
After the auspicious debut of The Anam Cam Ranh in 2017, the independently owned and operated The Anam Group will celebrate the grand opening of its second property, The Anam Mui Ne, in January 2023.

With “Indochine Charm” and “Modern Luxury” as its watchwords, the group blends colonial-era aesthetics and attentive Vietnamese service with modern comforts and convenience. “The Anam” today is a reference to another name, “An Nam”, which was the name of Central Vietnam during the French Indochina era.

The Anam Cam Ranh overlooks 300 metres of beachfront on Vietnam’s scenic Cam Ranh peninsula, which averages more than 300 sunny days per year. The luxurious five-star resort boasts 77 villas and 136 rooms and suites. The Anam features a French-inspired fine dining restaurant, all-day dining restaurant, a Vietnamese restaurant and bar, a classical bar, a beach club, in-room dining, a 10 treatment-room spa, indoor and outdoor movie theatres, three capacious swimming pools, ballroom, conference rooms, recreation and fitness centre, a tennis court, yoga room and deck, kids club, putting green, gift shop and more.

Like its predecessor The Anam Cam Ranh, The Anam Mui Ne’s design is also an echo out of Vietnam’s Indochine era. Situated in southern Vietnam’s popular beach town Mui Ne, the 1.2 hectare beachfront resort affords spectacular ocean vistas and features 127 elegant rooms and suites, including seven 142sqm suites with private pools and a 122sqm presidential suite with an extra room for the bodyguards. Its dining landscape comprises an all-day dining restaurant and grill, beachside restaurant and bar, and lobby bar. A five-treatment room spa, two vast swimming pools, a ballroom, conference rooms, water sports center, fitness center, yoga room, kid’s club and gift shop are among the resort’s host of world-class facilities.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Oman Named Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2024

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Oman Named Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2024 - TRAVELINDEXMuscat, Oman, April 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Oman Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and ITB Berlin have announced that the Sultanate of Oman will be the official host country of the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show in 2024. ”ITB Berlin is a potent platform for showcasing the variety of the many offerings that Oman can provide in the growing tourism industry,“ says His Excellency Salim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman. “We are pleased that in 2024, the Sultanate of Oman will be the hosting country and we are committed to provide the event with an impressive and lasting experience covering all possible senses and expectations,“ H.E. added.

The minister had previously signed a declaration of intent during an informal ceremony at ITB Berlin 2023 in order to seal the partnership at an early date. Afterwards, the official signing of the agreement took place with David Ruetz, senior vice president, Messe Berlin.

“Oman has been strongly represented at ITB Berlin for many years and we are very impressed by the tourism attractions and diversity this travel destination has to offer“, said David Ruetz. “With the Sultanate, we are delighted to have secured such an attractive partner for next year’s show.”

The Gulf of Oman is shown in the foreground. In the background is the waterfront Corniche of Muttrah with white houses and the Muttrah Mosque in Muscat, Oman. Behind it mountains are visible.

The country in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula boasts an impressive history spanning 5,000 years and is known for its many different attractions. Travellers can look forward to a welcoming destination and a nature paradise of many contrasts that attracts visitors in search of relaxation and activities alike. Besides golden sand dunes and green oases, the Sultanate boasts high mountains and impressive caves as well as sandy beaches and cliffs that stretch for miles. Outdoor activities such as snorkelling, hiking and climbing round off the tourism attractions on offer.

As the official host country of ITB Berlin 2024, Oman will organise the opening ceremony on 4 March 2024 at the CityCube Berlin, among other events. From 5 to 7 March the Sultanate will present trade visitors with a wide-ranging programme featuring numerous events.

About ITB Berlin and the ITB Berlin Convention
ITB Berlin 2024 will take place from Tuesday, 5 to Thursday, 7 March. Since 1966, ITB Berlin has been the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show. As in previous years, the internationally acclaimed ITB Berlin Convention will take place parallel with the show as a live event on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds. At ITB Berlin 2023 around 5,500 exhibitors from 161 countries displayed their products and services to over 90,000 visitors. In 2023, under the heading ’Mastering Transformation’, the ITB Berlin Convention took place as a live event with a total of 24,000 attendees who took part in 200 sessions with 400 leading speakers.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Strengthens Cooperation Around Tourism Investments

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UNWTO Strengthens Cooperation Around Tourism Investments - TRAVELINDEXAbu Dhabi, UAE, April 20, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has further advanced its focus on investments in a more resilient and sustainable tourism by strengthening its cooperation with both the international community and with the private sector.

In this context, UNWTO has joined the World Investment for Development Alliance (WIDA). As part of the Alliance, UNWTO will work to enhance both the level and effectiveness of investment in the sector with the aim of supporting and accelerating the implementation of the Agenda 2030 and its Sustainable Development Goals.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “Investment is all too often the missing ingredient for turning our shared plans for a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient tourism sector into reality. UNWTO is proud to join the World Investment for Development Alliance and we look forward to working together to re-think and transform investments into tourism.”

UNWTO is proud to join the World Investment for Development Alliance and we look forward to working together to re-think and transform investments into tourism

WIDA Chair James Zhan adds: “WIDA fully recognizes that UNWTO has been playing a leading role in promoting investment in tourism for sustainable development and inclusive growth. It believes that UNWTO shares the same values as WIDA and can make a significant contribution to our common causes.”

Boosting post-pandemic investments

UNWTO data shows that, as a result of the pandemic, levels of investment into tourism dropped dramatically. The United Nations Specialized Agency will hold this year’s World Tourism Day (27 September) around the theme of ‘Green Investments’ and, according to Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, enhanced cooperation with private sector stakeholders will be vital for both boosting investment levels and for directing funding to projects centred around sustainability.

“For this reason, I am happy UNWTO has confirmed our new agreement with the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM),” Mr Pololikashvili says. “We consider this collaboration as mutually beneficial, as we recognize the significant contributions that can be made by the private sector to our organization’s strategic objectives.”

In line with the two Organizations’ commitment to cooperate in the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding, UNWTO will spearhead the “Tourism Investment Segment”, an official side event of the upcoming Annual Investment Meeting, to be held on 8-10 May in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

AIM President Dawood Al Shezawi said: “It has been AIM’s mission to provide an interactive platform where investment opportunities can be formed, thereby not only strengthening economic relations among nations but also addressing issues that have profound effects on a global scale. We also want to provide a platform where the brightest minds, from all sectors, can converge to find solutions and scale up development ideas. We welcome this great chance to cooperate with the UNWTO and we are certain that this collaboration will be fruitful.”

About WIDA
The World Investment for Development Alliance (WIDA) is a global platform dedicated to promoting investment for sustainable development. Promote sustainable and inclusive investment through an open and structured network of multiple organizations drawn from the investment-for-development community. WIDA pursues this overarching objective by creating synergies and maximizing impact through joint advocacy, joint organization and joint actions among participating organizations.

About AIM
The Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) is an initiative of the AIM Foundation, an independent international organization fully committed to empower the world’s economy by boosting effective promotion strategies and facilitating opportunities for economic productivity and expansion. The Foundation also undertakes the operation and management of the AIM Global Investment Network and its 15 affiliated Business Groups, including the supervision of the Annual Investment Meeting Global and Regional Chapters.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Kane Williams Appointed Head Chef of The Barn at Moor Hall

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Kane Williams Appointed Head Chef of The Barn at Moor Hall - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25RESTAURANTSAughton, Lancashire, United Kingdom, April 20, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Kane Williams has been appointed Head Chef of The Barn at Moor Hall, Mark Birchall’s Michelin-starred neighbourhood restaurant in Aughton, Lancashire. Together, Mark and Kane have developed exciting new menus for The Barn, which celebrate the best seasonal ingredients, largely grown within Moor Hall’s five-acre grounds or sourced from local suppliers.

The restaurant will continue to offer a relaxed dining experience inspired by local heritage and tradition, whilst serving the imaginative British dishes of understated elegance that have earned The Barn its reputation as one of the best informal dining destinations in the country.

Kane Williams started his career at Sosban & The Old Butchers in Anglesey, not far from his hometown of Bangor in North Wales. He went on to join Tom Kerridge’s The Hand & Flowers before moving to London to work at The Ledbury. Kane has been part of the kitchen team at Moor Hall since the doors first opened in 2017, joining Moor Hall Restaurant as chef de partie and working his way up to sous chef.

After six years under the guidance of Chef Patron Mark Birchall, Kane has now stepped up to lead the kitchen at The Barn.

Dishes from Mark and Kane’s new a la carte menu for The Barn include West coast sea trout with Florentine fennel, sea lettuce, fresh cream and dill; Cumbrian chicken with asparagus, morel mushroom, ramson and elderflower vinegar sauce; Prune and amaretto soufflé with almond ice cream; and Tarleton strawberries, buttermilk custard, verbena curd and sponge. The Barn also offers set lunch and dinner menus, and an extremely popular Sunday lunch.

About Moor Hall
Moor Hall is a stunning grade II listed building steeped in history dating back to the thirteenth century. The site was acquired by Andy and Tracey Bell in 2015 and has since undergone a major renovation. In partnership with Chef Patron Mark Birchall, Moor Hall Restaurant with Rooms opened in early 2017, with The Barn at Moor Hall opening later in the same year. Located in Aughton, Moor Hall is surrounded by picturesque West Lancashire countryside and set in five acres of beautiful, productive gardens.

Moor Hall Restaurant with Rooms holds two Michelin Stars, a Michelin Green Star, five AA Rosettes, rated as ‘world-class’ in the Good Food Guide and has repeatedly topped the Estrella Damm National Restaurant Awards. Alongside the restaurant, Moor Hall has a private dining room, bar and lounge, and seven luxurious guest bedrooms.

The Barn at Moor Hall is Mark’s charming neighbourhood restaurant, offering a relaxed dining experience inspired by local heritage and tradition. The Barn was awarded its first Michelin Star in 2022.

Mark Birchall was born in Chorley and trained at Runshaw College. Alongside Andy and Tracey Bell, he opened Moor Hall Restaurant with Rooms in 2017, offering an outstanding dining experience inspired by the local landscape and its many producers, farmers and artisans. Prior to Moor Hall, Mark worked for and alongside some of the most revered culinary minds and respected restaurants including three Michelin-starred El Celler de Can Roca in Spain, L’Enclume in Cumbria and Northcote in Lancashire. While at L’Enclume, Mark won the Roux Scholarship in 2011, and more recently, he was crowned Best Chef in the UK, winning the Chefs’ Chef of the Year award at the AA Hospitality Awards.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News