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Thai Airways Expands Distribution Agreement with Sabre

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Thai Airways Expands Distribution Agreement with Sabre - TRAVELINDEX - AIRLINEHUB.com - VISITTHAILAND.netBangkok, Thailand, April 19, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Sabre Corporation announced a renewed distribution agreement with Thai Airways. The flag carrier will also be using Sabre’s robust data combined with its consultancy services to help it accelerate recovery.

The Global Distribution System (GDS) renewal ensures that Sabre-connected travel agencies will continue to have access to Thai Airway’s content globally, while enabling the airline to retain its reach across Sabre’s valuable network of global travel buyers and intermediaries. Meanwhile, Thai Airways will also be taking advantage of Sabre’s extensive global booking data to help it identify recovery and growth opportunities.

“As we continue to ramp up operations and resume international flights, it is essential to us that we are able to continue to distribute our fares, offers and itinerary to travel agents, and their customers, across the world,” said Mr. Korakot Chatasinga, Chief Commercial Officer, Thai Airways. “We’re thrilled to have renewed our distribution deal with Sabre at the same time as being able to harness the power of Sabre’s robust booking data and industry expertise.”

Primarily operating from Suvarnabhumi Airport as well as its secondary hub in Phuket, Thai Airways typically serves around 40 international destinations, and is a founding member of the Star Alliance, the world’s largest global airline alliance. It has so far resumed a significant proportion of its pre-pandemic international flights, and is forging ahead with further recovery and growth plans. With Thailand surpassing its tourist number targets last year, and expecting further recovery, particularly from the Chinese travel market, Thai Airways is poised to play an important role in future industry growth.

“We’re delighted that Sabre will continue to be a key part of Thai Airways’ journey as the carrier, and the country, continue to experience strong travel demand,” said Rakesh Narayanan, Vice President, Regional General Manager, Asia Pacific, Travel Solutions Airline Sales. “Our booking data includes detailed insights on itinerary, origin, connection, passenger type, length of stay and other booking patterns. However, it’s important not just to have access to such data, but to be able to interpret and make the best use of it to support an airline’s business strategy and growth. Sabre will be providing consulting services to help identify areas of potential opportunity for Thai Airways to increase efficiencies and enhance future revenue.”

About Thai Airways
Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) is a public company registered in The Securities Exchange of Thailand since 1991 with the Ministry of Finance as a dominant shareholder of more than 50%. THAI operates an airline business that transports passengers, goods, parcels, and post through air transportation via Thai’s major cities to primary cities around the world. From schedule flights to charter flights and through its alliances, THAI operates through Suvarnabhumi Airport as its main hub for all flight routes. As Thailand’s national airline, it aims to be “The First Choice Carrier with touches of THAI,” representing its focus on building shared value while concentrating on customer satisfaction.

About Sabre Corporation
Sabre Corporation is a leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, serving a wide range of travel companies including airlines, hoteliers, travel agencies and other suppliers. The company provides retailing, distribution and fulfilment solutions that help its customers operate more efficiently, drive revenue and offer personalized traveller experiences. Through its leading travel marketplace, Sabre connects travel suppliers with buyers from around the globe. Sabre’s technology platform manages more than $260B worth of global travel spend annually. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: It’s Time to mark Pink Floyd milestone

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Laser Floyd. Two words that said it all about Pink Floyd and a generational right of passage (totally sober, of course) in the years following the 1973 release of the band’s epic, now iconic album “Dark Side Of The Moon.”

In Toronto in those days, the show unfurled and swirled at the McLaughlin Planetarium beside the ROM, a sound and vision sensation across the 360-degree dome. Now 50 years later, the Planétarium de Montréal is ready to blow our minds again, presenting the album in all its spacy glory, in surround sound and with the help of the latest technology, if not actual lasers.

Showing on Wednesdays starting May 3 at 6:35, 7:35 and 8:35 p.m. through June 21, then moving to Fridays at 8:45, p.m. for the rest of the summer (until Sept. 1), the album will be played out in its entire 42-minute format, featuring classic songs like “Time,” “Money,” and “Us and Them.”

Called a “colossus of classic rock” and a “psychedelic masterpiece” by Rolling Stone, the album has sold over 45 million copies and spent an unbelievable 18 years in the Billboard Top 200 chart. Its iconic black prism cover is instantly recognizable and emblazoned on countless T-shirts.

Such is the album’s stature that Planétarium de Montréal says it is the only show of its type it has ever authorized; moreover, the production was embraced by the band and included assistance from Pink Floyd’s long-time creative collaborator Aubrey Powell.

“Each song has a different theme; some futuristically looking forward, and some a retro acknowledgment to Pink Floyd’s visual history, all relating to a time and space experience, embracing up-to-the-minute technology that only a Planetarium can offer,” organizers write.

To help get you in the mood, here’s a remastered concert rendition of “Time” from 1994, itself a visual masterpiece.

Lyrics

Ticking away the moments that make up a dull day
You fritter and waste the hours in an offhand way
Kicking around on a piece of ground in your hometown
Waiting for someone or something to show you the way

Tired of lying in the sunshine
Staying home to watch the rain
And you are young and life is long
And there is time to kill today

And then one day you find
Ten years have got behind you
No one told you when to run
You missed the starting gun

And you run, and you run to catch up with the sun
But it’s sinking
Racing around to come up behind you again

The sun is the same in a relative way
But you’re older
Shorter of breath, and one day closer to death

Every year is getting shorter
Never seem to find the time
Plans that either come to naught
Or half a page of scribbled lines

Hanging on in quiet desperation
Is the English way
The time is gone, the song is over
Thought I’d something more to say

Home, home again
I like to be here when I can
When I come home cold and tired
It’s good to warm my bones beside the fire

Far away, across the field
The tolling of the iron bell
Calls the faithful to their knees
To hear the softly spoken magic spells

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

New World-Class Magic Theatre Show Unveiled in Koh Samui

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Koh Samui, Thailand, April 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Illusions Koh Samui takes place six nights a week in a purpose-built 71-seat theatre at Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort. A new world-class magic show has been unveiled in the holiday island of Koh Samui, Thailand. The Illusions Theatre magic show will take place six nights a week in a purpose-built 71-seat air conditioned show theatre within the newly opened Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort on Lamai Beach.

From Monday to Saturday, starting 17 April, there will be two shows nightly: a 7pm show for the whole family, and a 9pm show for adults only. Each show lasts an hour with a 15 minute interval.

Resident magician of Illusions Theatre, Ed Clarke, says the 7pm family experience combines a perfect balance of visual magic, mind reading and illusions that the entire family will enjoy.

Clarke says the 9pm show, for ages 15+, will feature amazing illusions and captivating feats of mind reading. “It’s guaranteed to spark your imagination and leave you in a sense of awe,” says Clarke.

“We strive to make sure all attendees have a great time, which is why we choose not to make anyone feel foolish or embarrassed,” he adds.

In a first for Koh Samui, close-up magic is performed live on stage inches in front of spectators. The theatre is equipped with two 75-inch (190-cm) high-definition screens so that the audience can enjoy the same experience as spectators who have been invited to participate in the magic on stage.

“Illusions is an unforgettable and one-of-a-kind experience, unlike anything seen before here in Koh Samui,” says Leah Matters, General Manager of Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort.

“There are many different types of entertainment in the world, but one that cuts through any language barrier and is suitable for all age groups is truly magic. We are delighted that the new Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort is the host venue for this experience,” she added.

Ms Matters says magic show guests can enjoy pre-theatre dining and drinks at Outrigger’s Edgewater Beach Club restaurant and bar, a beautiful beachside setting under the coconut palms. Pre-dinner and interval drinks are available at the Illusions theatre venue.

Tickets retail to the public at THB1,200 (US$35/€32/£28) per person – the same price for all ages.

The addition of a permanent magic show at the resort reflects Outrigger’s commitment to providing live music and entertainment at all of its resorts.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Global Agritourism Network to Lead the Promising Sector

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The Global Agritourism Network to Lead the Promising Sector - TRAVELINDEXBurlington, Vermont, United States, April 18, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Global Agritourism Network (GAN) was launched and celebrated online on April 11, drawing some 700 registrants from 81 countries. The formation of the GAN indicates a new beginning for the global agritourism sector, which now has a unified voice to promote, advocate for and strive for the prosperity of the sector.

Dr. Lisa Chase, an agritourism specialist at the University of Vermont Extension in the United States, serves as the first GAN chairperson. Chase was instrumental in bringing the International Workshop on Agritourism to Vermont during the global pandemic in 2022. The event generated huge momentum, following which a key group of individuals continued to craft the framework of an international structure to represent the global agritourism sector, thus the official launch of the GAN.

“We are on our way to creating a truly global network,” says Chase. “GAN’s mission is to support and advocate for a thriving agritourism sector around the world. We have much work to do, but with such a pool of talented professionals so determined and united, I’m confident that GAN will be able to unleash the power to benefit the stakeholders globally.”
GAN comprises three statutory bodies: the Steering Committee, the Executive committee, and the General Assembly. GAN currently operates 10 Auxiliary Committees chaired by international experts from nine countries. The committees include Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture and Agritourism (chaired by David Gillespie of Canada); Policy and Advocacy (chaired by Rose Wright of Australia); Promotion and Funds (chaired by Rohana Mahaliyanaarachchi of Sri Lanka); Research (chaired by Dave Lamie of the U.S. and Corinne Stewart of France); World Agritourism Day (chaired by Pandurang Taware of India), and so on.

The Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture and Agritourism Committee attracted nearly 30% of attendees at the GAN launch meeting’s breakout session, indicating the most relevant and critical issues the agritourism sector faces worldwide today.

GAN has 14 regional representatives who cover North America; Central America and the Caribbean; South America; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; East Asia; Southeastern Asia; South and Western Asia; Northern Africa; Central and West Africa; East Africa; Southern Africa; Australia and New Zealand; and the Pacific. Regional representatives serve on the Steering Committee to represent their diverse stakeholders.

GAN represents all agritourism stakeholders (farmers and agricultural producers, agricultural service providers, tour operators, hospitality operators, researchers, educators, community planners, government entities, development organizations, event planners, among others). In addition, GAN collaborates with organizations around the world such as Agri Tourism India, Agritourism Africa, NAFDMA International Agritourism Association, Farm Stay USA, Scottish Agritourism Association, and Community-Based Tourism Initiative of Uganda, and universities with leading agritourism researchers.

The GAN mix also includes a key organization, Eurac Research, based in Italy. It’s a 30-year-old private research entity with 500+ employees. In 2018, it held the first World Congress on Agritourism in Bolzano, South Tyrol, Italy, which Dr. Lisa Chase attended. Chase then partnered with Eurac Research to bring the International Workshop on Agritourism to Vermont with the sponsorship of the University of Vermont. The rest is history—GAN has been created with Eurac Research’s support behind it. More than a research entity, Eurac Research has proven to be a facilitator in the real world of agriculture and agritourism practices. Dr. Thomas Streifeneder of Eurac Research was officially named “Past Chair” of GAN.

The next major event for the sector is the second World Congress on Agritourism to be held by Eurac Research in Bolzano, Italy, May 16–18, 2024. The event will welcome the GAN family and the broader range of international agritourism stakeholders.

The global reach and diversity of GAN was evident at the launch on April 11. While the Russian-Ukraine war is ongoing and the agricultural productivity in Ukraine is impacted, Dr. Tetyana Kalna-Dubinyuk of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine in Kyiv, now a visiting professor at Iowa State University, attended the GAN launch meeting and spoke passionately.

In a post-interview, Kalna-Dubinyuk described that Ukraine has a network named the Union of Green Tourism, which unites the agritourism resources in rural areas. Before the war broke out, she organized training programs in green tourism (agritourism) for the union members and the public. She sees the future potential of working with GAN to develop collaborative programs for Ukraine.

The wide geographic reach that GAN has attained in such a short period of time is truly remarkable. Similar alliances typically begin small and grow gradually, but GAN’s launch is like thunder, with the world’s most influential players onboard carrying clear directions. In addition, GAN is supported by youth and students, who are the future of agritourism. With a robust foundation, GAN will undoubtedly play a significant role in driving the global agritourism industry.

Haybina Hao reporting for Travelindex on travel, agritourism, adventure travel, destinations.

Haybina is an international travel industry journalist and reports in both Chinese and English. Linkedin

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

EBRD and UNWTO Support Tourism Recovery in Greece

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EBRD and UNWTO Support Tourism Recovery in Greece - TRAVELINDEX - SEEUROPE.comAthens, Greece, April 18, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have successfully worked alongside the Greek Government to help the country’s tourism sector recover from the impacts of the pandemic.

· EBRD and UNWTO joined forces with the Ministry of Tourism in Greece to support tourism recovery
· Four key recovery projects were implemented and completed
· Focus on economic recovery, marketing, and institutional strengthening

As part of a wider effort to boost resilience and accelerate recovery in the wake of the worst crisis in the history of tourism, the Bank selected several areas of UNWTO’s “COVID-19 Tourism Recovery Technical Assistance Package” to implement in Greece. This package was built around three main pillars of intervention: economic recovery, marketing and promotion, and institutional strengthening and building resilience.

Four projects of critical importance for the tourism sector at the time were selected and implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism of Greece, namely:

  1. Measurement of COVID-19’s impact and development of monitoring guidelines: Within this project, tourism data needs were aligned between the Bank of Greece, the Hellenic Statistical Authority, and the Ministry of Tourism. Ten areas of intervention were identified, along with 25 actions for improvement of monitoring, and training was provided to seven representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, the Bank of Greece and the Hellenic Statistical Authorities.
  2. Preparation of a roadmap to support tourism MSMEs and job retention: The project included reviewing the existing support measures for MSMEs, interviewing tourism national associations, MSMEs, and professionals, and designing a seven-action roadmap. Moreover, 41 tourism professionals, travel agencies, hotels, and secondary accommodation establishments were trained on a range of topics, including digital marketing tools, HR management, analysing tourism data to identify opportunities, and improving the quality of services and the overall tourist experience.
  3. Updating the Tourism Marketing Strategy: Key international and domestic markets trends were analysed both during and post-pandemic. Six areas of intervention were identified, and the passenger survey questionnaires of the Athens International Airport and the 14 regional airports operated by Fraport have been updated to measure newly selected indicators. The strategy was also presented at a seminar with the foreign offices of the Greek National Tourism Organisation, in collaboration with its headquarters.
  4. Development of a Tourism Crisis Management Plan: The first such plan for the Ministry of Tourism, identifying various types of crises, outlining concrete response mechanisms, roles, and processes, and introducing a case study simulation.

Along with the UNWTO and EBRD teams working on the project, a team of experts in crisis management, statistics, marketing, and MSMEs was brought in to spearhead the implementation, transfer knowledge and work closely with the Ministry of Tourism and stakeholders for the delivery of the project activities envisaged.

Recovery Package Delivers Results

As a leading destination, both within Europe and worldwide, Greece has consistently maintained its relevance in the global tourism market and emerged resilient during the long-lasting financial and economic crisis of the past decade. In the context of the pandemic, Greece then managed to sustain and increase the contribution of its tourism sector to its national economy and was one of the first European countries to reopen to international visitors in the aftermath of the pandemic.

Looking ahead, the work done under the Tourism Recovery Technical Assistance Package will enable the Ministry of Tourism to monitor closely the performance of the sector and systematically respond to and address any crises that might occur affecting the tourism sector of Greece. EBRD continues to support the Greek tourism sector through targeted investments or financing that promote sustainable and inclusive tourism and enhance youth employment and backward linkages with local economies. UNWTO remains active in Greece to support the tourism development of local destinations through projects on the ground while strengthening the close and continuous collaboration with the country.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sabre Launches United Airlines NDC Offers to Global Network

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Sabre Launches United Airlines NDC Offers to Global Network - TRAVELINDEX - AIRLINEHUB.comSouthlake, Texas, United States, April 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Sabre Corporation and United Airlines, today announced the availability of United’s NDC offers through Sabre’s global distribution system (GDS). Sabre-connected travel buyers, agencies and developer partners will be able to shop, book, and service United’s NDC content through Sabre’s Offer and Order APIs, the agency point-of-sale tool, Sabre Red 360, and the online booking tool, GetThere.

“We are so pleased to launch United Airlines’ NDC content this week, marking the 10th airline with whom we have completed integration and made content available through NDC to agencies around the world,” said Kathy Morgan, vice president, NDC and airline supply, Sabre Travel Solutions. “In delivering a suite of NDC solutions and enabling air content in our NDC channels, we are helping airlines go from where they are today to a new modern approach to travel retailing – a key step in the evolution of retailing and distribution in the travel industry.”

Travel buyers connected to the Sabre GDS will be able to choose enhanced offers from United such as United’s continuous pricing content with the lowest fares available in these channels. They will also have access to more descriptive information on United’s flight offers as well as seat selection enabled in the booking path. NDC offers from United are currently available in over 70 countries, with more coming soon.

Sabre Offer and Order APIs are the foundation of a modern retailing marketplace that allows airlines to dynamically create and distribute tailored offers across any channel, while being seamlessly fulfilled and delivered as orders. Sabre Red 360 unlocks a full spectrum of bookable content and insightful information to efficiently create tailored trip experiences that travel buyers can sell and service.

About Sabre Corporation
Sabre Corporation is a leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, serving a wide range of travel companies including airlines, hoteliers, travel agencies and other suppliers. The company provides retailing, distribution and fulfilment solutions that help its customers operate more efficiently, drive revenue and offer personalized traveler experiences. Through its leading travel marketplace, Sabre connects travel suppliers with buyers from around the globe. Sabre’s technology platform manages more than $260B worth of global travel spend annually. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tai A Woven Culture – Book Launch at Blue Elephant Bangkok

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Tai A Woven Culture - Book Launch at Blue Elephant Bangkok - TRAVELINDEX - VISITTHAILAND.netBangkok, Thailand, April 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant Bangkok was recently the venue of the launch of a unique, coffee table book titled “TAI, A Woven Culture” a pictorial chronology about silk intertwined with a unique history and culture and the people involved, by renowned Belgian photographer Hans Roels and an avid Thai textile aficionado and collector Napajaree Suanduenchai from Bangkok.

Thailand’s fascinating silk history is not really Thai but rather TAI. Thailand is the name of the country and Tai is the name of the indigenous people who migrated from China to Southeast Asia. They established Tai kingdoms that expanded, dominated and co-existed with each other through the centuries. What unites all Tai people is their remarkable, unique weaving culture at the heart of it is yellow silk whose thick, smooth fibre is processed manually.

This unique book, which portrays the story of TAI silk, began over 20 years ago when Belgian photographer Hans Roels who was travelling and shooting in northern Thailand met Napajaree Suanduenchai or Nim, a Tai textile collector from Bangkok. Together they decided to document the different Thai sub-groups who made these wonderful silk garments, and the book is the result of their combined passions.

They began in Thailand where different TAI communities directed them to other sub-groups in Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar, South China and Assam in India. Their journey was dictated by the amazing people they met who express their own identity through weaving. Each different Tai community had their own unique patterns and traditions. The people who spun the precious fibre, wove it into timeless patterns. They connected their past and their present through their craft and their colours. These great artists were mostly modest farmers who grew rice for food and farm silk to showcase their culture and preserve their identity.

On their travels throughout Thailand, Nim and Hans also came across ethnic minority groups who were not Tai. These people lived in the mountainous regions between the Thai valleys and have existed here for generations long before the Tai migration. They were willing to share their own unique and fascinating cultures and their distinctive textiles. Aside from the precious silk and weaving culture featured in the book, the portraits of the people who created these textiles are also in the spotlight – every individual captured and print for posterity, part of a living fabric and proud culture.

“Here what you really have is people who participated with their heart and gave their full confidence and trust and that’s something that especially struck me a lot and touched me very deeply in this project,” said Hans Roels. “This book makes you the witnesses of an unfortunately fast disappearing culture. Due to modernization, the young generation no longer chooses this time-consuming weaving art. I’m very happy to have started this project in time and to show you the remnants of a beautiful, unforgettable culture. We hope that this book brings you close to the TAI, that it shows you the essence of the TAI and even allows you to look through the Tai’s eyes,” added Hans.

“Discovering these TAI textiles reminds me of the beauty of these people who are farmers and who create beautiful work through their textiles and show their identity and dignity of being TAI,” said Khun Nim.

TAI, A Woven Culture was launched in Brussels amidst much interest and excitement earlier in March 2023. At the Thailand launch at Blue Elephant Bangkok, the books were on display and on sale at a special price of Baht 2,700 (retail price @Baht 3,200).

A large format hard cover book with 348 pages, approximately 206 colour photos, TAI, A Woven Culture is printed in Sweden and is lead HUV printed on uncoated, unbleached FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified paper supporting responsible forestry that is durable and will stand the test of time. The book is printed with 100% wind energy. River Books is the publisher of Tai, A Woven Culture.

For more information about the making of TAI, A Woven Culture, please contact Hans Roels, tel. 095 060 6117 or +32 496 25 37 73, and for those interested in buying the book, please call River Books, tel. 02 225 0139 or 098 495 4142

About Mr. Hans Roels and Mrs. Napajaree Suanduenchai
Mr. Hans Roels is a passionate photographer from Brussels, Belgium who combines creativity and craftsmanship in his prolific artwork. Always keen on exploring new cultures both in Belgium and in all parts of the world he has been involved in various cultural and commissioned projects resulting in dazzlingly beautiful and powerful images, exhibitions and books. He is particularly interested in making group photos, in which according to his own words everyone counts and made visible.

Mrs. Napajaree Suanduenchai (Nim) is a textile collector from Bangkok. Coming from a family that has been trading in Tai textiles for generations she followed in her mother’s footsteps and ran Prayer Textile Gallery in Bangkok. She also founded the “Tai Textile Collectors Circle” and is one of the founders of the ‘Tai Textile Society’ in Bangkok.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

FAMILY FUN IS PLENTIFUL IN AMERICA’S FIRST RESORT DESTINATION

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With more than 100 family-friendly attractions, 47 miles/76 km of sparkling coastline, outdoor adventure, arts and culture and a diverse culinary scene; The Palm Beaches offer many exciting and enticing experiences for the entire family. Get close to sea turtles and marine life at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, feed a giraffe at Lion Country Safari, make a discovery at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium, snorkel along the spectacular trail offshore at Phil Foster Park or just kick back and relax on a postcard-perfect, golden-sand beach.

Loggerhead Marine life Center – Juno Beach

If you’re a fan of sea turtles and saving the planet, then you’ll enjoy this stop. On a mission to promote the conservation of ocean ecosystems with a special focus on sea turtles, this center educates the public through engaging programming and rehabilitates sea turtles for release back into the wild. The perk here (besides the many sea turtles and friendly staff) is that this center is located just steps away from some of the most densely nested loggerhead sea turtle beaches in the world! Pack your swimwear and beach gear to enjoy the beach pre-or post-visit.  Loggerhead Marine life Center features a recent $20 million expansion, showcasing their hospital, educational exhibits, classrooms, retail, research labs, and various areas for family exploration.

Rapids Water Park – Riviera Beach

South Florida’s largest water park has been standing since 1979! What started as four acres and a few slides grew to 35 acres of action-packed water slides and attractions. Take a jaw-dropping seven-story ride down Big Thunder, or a relaxing break floating through the serene current of the Lazy River. For the young and the young at heart, the wave pool, dual seven-story speed slides, and action park for young children and toddlers offer a non-stop day of aquatic fun. Explore the park with the entire family for hours of enjoyment, with 42 suitable rides and attractions for all ages.

Snorkel Trail at Phil Foster Park – Riviera Beach

Families can head to Riviera Beach to experience refreshing blue waters, a variety of marine life, and enjoy hours of snorkelling along an 800-foot stretch of boulders and an artificial reef. Ranked among the “50 Best Dive Sites in the World” by Scuba Magazine, the Snorkel Trail at Phil Foster Park hosts sea turtles, tropical fish, sailfish, goliath groupers, and dolphins. Manatee sightings are frequent in the winter and springtime, while sea turtles are common year-round. For the best snorkeling conditions, time your visit with high tide. The Palm Beaches are the closest place in North America to the Gulf Stream current, an oceanic conveyor belt of warm, clear water. This unique proximity to the Gulf Stream maintains comfortable ocean temperatures for divers and snorkelers.

Lion Country Safari

Lion Country Safari – Loxahatchee

Florida’s largest drive-through safari displays 900 animals roaming in wide-open habitats within inches of your car! Rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and more can be spotted through the four-mile drive safari space. Other attractions at Lion Country Safari include an adventure park, a water park, refreshment and food stations, and gift shops for handcrafted goodies and souvenirs. Guests can enjoy animal habitats, a petting zoo, amusement rides, food and beverage options, and animal feedings.

Sugar Sand Park – Boca Raton

This 132-acre park is more than swings and sand, it’s a long-standing site for recreation, culture, entertainment, and education. Home to the Children’s Science Explorium, the Willow Theatre, and the community center, the park hosts numerous events. The park is part of the Art in Public Places exhibition, where artists can exhibit works free of charge in public spaces in a variety of mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture, glass, jewelry, pottery, and multimedia. Multiple areas perfect for relaxation are available, including shaded picnic villas and benches. Sugar Sand Park is also home to a 30-horse and wheelchair-accessible chariot carousel, open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10-2 p.m. The hard-to-miss attraction is covered by a decorative tent, with lights and music to enhance the festive scene. The Explorium offers an air-conditioned and educational oasis for families to learn and play in with a multitude of interactive displays and exhibitions. Sugar Sand Park offers something for every member of the family, allowing a relaxing, yet playful space to indulge in.

Cox Science Center & Aquarium – West Palm Beach

Entertain curious minds of varying ages with enthralling exhibits, interactive displays, and outdoor adventures at the Cox Science Center & Aquarium. Following recent renovations, the center now boasts 100 new hands-on exhibits, an upgraded planetarium, 1,000 sq.-ft. early childhood exhibit, a modernized theater, a science lab, an open-air amphitheater, and an 18-hole miniature golf conservation course that was named one of the “Top Thirteen Miniature Golf Courses in the nation” by Travel Magazine. Families can find educational fun waiting around every corner. One of the most popular exhibitions includes the Marvin Dekelboum Planetarium, the first and only public planetarium in Palm Beach County, as well as the 10,000-gallon aquarium housing some of Florida’s most beautiful native fish and marine life species. The Center strives to “Open Every Mind to Science,” providing more than 300,000 students, teachers, and visitors with science and technology education programs, and providing South Floridian locals and visitors the chance to enjoy themselves through indoor and outdoor educational activities.

For more information about The Palm Beaches, visit

www.ThePalmBeaches.com  | www.thepalmbeaches.com/travel-trade-professionals

Take advantage of deals via The Palm Beaches Savings Pass

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: April 10-14, 2023

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Canadian passport staff, along with other federal workers, announced they may strike this week; Fort Lauderdale was hammered by a historic storm; Transat boosted service to France; and the US decided that the COVID-19 emergency was officially over.

NEWS

Just as the Canadian passport office seemed to get its head above water, members of the public service’s largest union, which represents more than 120,000 federal workers – including passport office employees – have voted in favour of a strike mandate that could be acted on as soon as Wednesday. Border and airport service could also be affected.

One of Florida’s busiest airports reopened Friday, two days after an unprecedented deluge left planes and travellers stranded and turned Fort Lauderdale‘s streets into rivers.

The US national emergency to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic has ended with the stroke of a pen on April 10 by President Joe Biden, who signed a bipartisan congressional resolution to bring measure to a close after three years – and just weeks before it was set to expire alongside a separate public health emergency on May 11.

AIR

Citing “skyrocketing demand” for the French provinces, Air Transat is expanding its flight operations to France, most notably on two direct routes departing from Montreal. The airline is also adding Marseille to its roster of year-round destinations. Additionally, it is extending its Montreal-Nantes service until Jan. 24, 2024. Air Transat is the only airline to offer direct flights from Canada to the airports of Marseille and Nantes.

 Air Canada and Amadeus have expanded their partnership, allowing travel sellers to benefit from a long-term roadmap that offers additional features and new content. The new, multi-year distribution agreement will enable access to its full range of NDC-sourced content from Air Canada through the Amadeus Travel Platform, enabling the carrier to provide enhanced travel retail experiences by distributing personalized and tailored offers.

Emirates is stepping up its frequency between Canada and the United Arab Emirates with two additional flights per week between Dubai and Toronto. The move to daily service, starting April 20, follows the announcement last week of an expanded air transport agreement between the two countries.

DEALS

Quark Expeditions has brought back its “Polar Promo Sale” offering travellers up to 40% off voyages to the Arctic and Antarctic, plus a variety of booking incentives that apply to all upcoming seasons. In addition to saving up to 40%, clients will receive a US$1,000 flight credit off the top of their trip cost, $250 shipboard credit on select itineraries, and 10% if they pay in full at time of booking on select voyages. The sale runs through July 4.

TOURS

As Goway Travel moves into its 53rd year, the company is gearing up for a marketing and brand transformation, its first since being founded by Bruce Hodge in 1970. Supporting a global expansion of the Toronto-based tour company, the project will feature a new Goway website with a cutting-edge reservation system to be launched launch later this year. The rebrand will be led by new VP of Marketing Mitchell Fawcett.

TProfile, which provides advanced Customer Experience Applications and CRM technology, has partnered with G Adventures, enabling it to expand its dynamic, real-time rich content – including quotes, images, and videos from G Adventures – as well as its global portfolio of tours network of travel agents.

CRUISE

A new Suite Upgrades promotion from Silversea Cruises provides guests with a two-category suite upgrade on selected voyages, for selected suite categories

and a US$1,000 shipboard credit per suite. The offer applies to new bookings made through May 31, and provides exclusive benefits on select voyages departing before May 31, 2024.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings brands, including NCL, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas, has announced a plan to improve Internet connectivity, speed and reliability at sea by offering SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet on its ships. The company is currently testing Starlink on the Norwegian Breakaway with the intent to rollout the “game-changing” technology across its entire world class fleet in a phased manner.

BY THE NUMBERS

A total of 331 cruise ships visits are expected to visit Vancouver in 2023 bringing more than a million visitors to the city. Just one less ship will deliver at least 850,000 passengers to Victoria, and 43 more ships and nearly 80,000 passengers are bound for Prince Rupert. Vancouver’s cruise traffic this year will be an increase of approximately 8% compared to 2022.

HOTELS

The finalists for the 2023 BC Hotel Association Awards of Excellence, to be announced at the BCHA Summit on May 1-2 include, for Hotel of the Year: Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa (Vancouver Island); Oswego Hotel (Victoria); The Parkside Hotel & Spa (Victoria); Robin Hood Inn & Suites (Victoria); and Versante Hotel (Richmond).

The Inn at Diamond Cove in Portland, Maine, has been inducted into Historic Hotels of America, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The Inn at Diamond Cove is one of more than 300 hotels and resorts throughout the country that is recognized for preserving and maintaining its historic integrity, architecture, and ambiance. The Inn opens for the season on May 25 and is currently accepting reservations through Sept. 30.

RESORTS

Sam Lord’s Castle Barbados

Sam Lord’s Castle Barbados, a Wyndham Grand Resort is due to begin welcoming this Spring. The resort is located on the former site of Sam Lord’s Castle, a legendary mansion on Barbados’ south-eastern coast, notorious for the pirating exploits of its 19th century owner, Sam Lord. Buccaneers long gone, the dazzling, 5-Diamond resort will boast over 400 luxury rooms and suites. In addition, the luxury property will offer three on-site restaurants, state of the art meeting spaces and an extensive luxury spa and fitness centre.

ATTRACTIONS

The Global Tourism Film Festival 2023, to be held in North Bay, Ont., April 27-30 has announced special programming segments recognizing film, accomplishment, and advancement of Indigenous Peoples, People of Colour, and Women in film and tourism. Among them: a cultural workshop on medicine pouches that educate on the four main medicines recognized and used by many Indigenous communities in prayers and as protection; an Australia Tourism Board presentation on Aboriginal Guided Experiences; and a workshop by PR expert Marie Lemelle that focuses on and engages minorities and women. For tickets and travel info, visit www.tourism-festival.org.

Fan-favourite nighttime spectacular “Happily Ever After” has returned to Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World, featuring all‑new projections down Main Street, USA. And in September, an all‑new nighttime spectacular is planned to debut at EPCOT.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

Travel advisors and meetings/events planners can enter to win prizes with every new Club Med group booked according to the following conditions: minimum of 20 adults; selected resorts – Québec Charlevoix, Punta Cana (DR), Michès Playa Esmeralda (DR), Cancún (Mexico), Ixtapa Pacific (Mexico), Columbus Isle (Bahamas), Turkoise (Turks & Caicos), La Caravelle (Guadeloupe), Buccaneer’s Creek (Martinique); travel dates – July 1 to Dec. 31, 2023. Prizes include and all-inclusive one-week stay package for two at Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, plus an iPad, AirPods, and Apple Watch. The higher the booking total, the more entries are activated (up to four for over $100,000). Direct bookings through the Exclusive Connection doubles the entries. The contest is until Dec. 31.

The Jamaica Tourist Board’s recently launched ‘Jamaica Cooking Challenge’ invites travel advisors to recreate a taste of the island at home. Each month, the JTB Canada sales team releases a new cooking video featuring an authentic Jamaican recipe prepared with step-by-step instructions by Chef Latoya Fagan. Agents are encouraged to prepare the recipe at home and share a photo of their finished dish for a chance to win monthly prizes. Find out more HERE.

EVENTS

Agents are invited to learned about Portugal’s Azores Islands in a series of webinars being held in conjunction with SATA Azores Airlines. The webinar will cover the nine islands of the Azores, general information, flights, and more, including the chance to win a trip for two. Agents can register for the webinar on April 18 by clicking HERE.  Additional dates will be April 28 and June 21.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Visit Detroit has selected of Toronto-based Moreno + Company as its public relations agency for the Canadian market as the US destination looks to make new overtures to Canadian visitors. The boutique communications company that also published luxury travel magazine, Bold Traveller. “Moreno + Company are fantastic storytellers, which is why Visit Detroit selected them to help share our story directly to our Canadian industry partners and travel advisors,” said Jennifer Ollinger of Visit Detroit. Contact cgordon@morenoco.com .

Canadian travel company Lujure has announced travel veteran Nadia Guinci has joined the leadership team as Managing Partner. She will develop strategic marketing and partnership initiatives to continue growth and expand the villa sector.

DESTINATIONS

Budapest is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the unification of Buda, Pest, and Old Buda this year. Plans for the 150-year celebrations in 2023 include the Budapest 150 Marathon (Oct. 14-15); Confectioners will be competing to create an iconic cake with special ingredients that will be served in most dessert shops and cafés later in the year; The Lions of Budapest will be creatively decorated by local artists and will serve as great photo spots all around the city; and renovations for the city’s iconic bridge are expected to finalize by the end of the year so that pedestrians may walk across the first bridge of Budapest.

Mark your calendar! The Toronto Waterfront Festival, formerly Redpath Waterfront Festival, has announced the huge news that the World’s Largest Rubber Duck will finally return to the annual festival, Sept. 16-17. In 2017, the World’s Largest Rubber Duck made a splash in Toronto when it floated in to celebrate Canada’s 150 anniversary. Drawn to the Duck, more than 750,000 people attended the three-day celebration and the Waterfront Festival. The festival announced the six-storey, 13,600-kg. Duck’s return in 2020 but had to cancel due to the pandemic.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1513, explorer Juan Ponce de Leon claimed Florida for Spain.

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First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Asset World Corporation Bring Thailand’s Rich Culinary Traditions to the Chao Phraya River

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Asset World Corporation Bring Thailand's Rich Culinary Traditions to the Chao Phraya River - TRAVELINDEX - VISITTHAILAND.netBangkok, Thailand, April 14, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park and Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC) have announced the opening of The Siam Tea Room, a unique new restaurant, bakery and café at Asiatique The Riverfront that will showcase the rich culinary traditions of Thailand in a vibrant waterside setting, next to Bangkok’s legendary Chao Phraya River.

Inspired by the country’s cultural heritage, The Siam Tea Room is set in an elegant two-story wooden building with indoor and alfresco seating areas, a banqueting facility, private dining room and views of the river. In this evocative location, talented Thai chefs – led by Chef Aunkool “Aony” Poolpipat – will craft traditional Thai cuisine based on recipes passed down from Chef Aony’s grandmother.

Using fresh local and seasonal ingredients, this mouth-watering menu will transport guests on a gastronomic journey through history to “Old Siam.” Diners can discover signature dishes such as spicy orange salad with crispy fried gourami and sweet pork; grilled free-range pork ribs, marinated overnight in a tamarind sauce and served with roasted rice, fried chili and kaffir lime leaves; and crab curry with betel leaves, the signature recipe which features the finest local crab in a spicy, homemade yellow curry sauce served with vermicelli noodles.

These delectable dishes are complemented by a choice of sweet treats, including Thailand’s national dessert mango sticky rice, which is crafted using large, ripe local mangoes, premium sticky rice and topped with sweet, fragrant coconut milk. In the spirit of the Siam Tea Room concept, the Thai restaurant will operate alongside a casual café and bakery which will produce freshly-baked bread, pastries and other treats every day, along with high-quality tea and coffee including options sourced from the hills of Northern Thailand.

This new dining destination becomes Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park and AWC’s third venue at Asiatique The Riverfront, the riverside retail and lifestyle hub, joining Sirimahannop, the reimagined tall ship that sailed between Thailand and the world in the early 1900s, and The Crystal Grill House, a glamorous steak and seafood restaurant that recaptures the spirit of an enchanting era.

The new Siam Tea Room is easily accessible by road and river, including shuttle boat services from the pier next to Saphan Taksin BTS skytrain station. The Siam Tea Room will open daily from 10.00 hrs. to midnight (last orders at 22.00 hrs.). Advanced reservations are recommended.

For more information and to discover this new era of gastronomy next to the Chao Phraya River, please call +66 (0) 2 059 5999 or email restaurant reservations.bkkqp@marriotthotels.com

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News