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Singapore Yacht Show to Set Sail Again

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Singapore Yacht Show to Set Sail Again - VISITSINGAPORE.org - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, Singapore, January 6, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Asia’s biggest and longest-running boat show returns to Singapore from 27-30 April 2023. When the long-awaited 10th edition of the Singapore Yacht Show was cruelly forced to shut down just a few weeks before opening back in March 2020, nobody thought it would have to be postponed more than a few months… Finally, a full three years after the beginning of that awful period, the show can finally go on – as indeed it must! Better late than never!

Much has changed on the boating industry landscape in all that time, but it has unquestionably ended up being a highly positive change. SYS organisers had worked flat out over the whole year following SYS 2019 to promote the 10th edition, and somehow, coupled with the lifestyle changes that were enforced on everyone, all the yacht brands, retailers and brokers alike have had three of their best business years in history – without the region’s main boat show even taking place!

We have all had to adapt, and to ensure that going forwards the Singapore Yacht Show as well as its sister events in Thailand and Hong Kong will be sustainable and secure for the future, Verventia is joining with all the experienced, respected and professional boat show organisers and marketers in the region. We will be a team in which the global industry can have total faith as genuine partners with all the necessary local knowledge, and we will be operating one combined event platform called “Asia Yacht Shows”. Watch this space for more details shortly…

With a huge amount of interest from many new players as well as from all the long-standing exhibitors, sponsors and supporters of SYS since its inception 10 years ago, the show needs to grow. And with Verventia’s push to get foreign superyachts coming to Asia to cruise and charter, which they can now do legally in Thailand, we are already seeing a big influx of large yachts here, and interest from Asian buyers and charterers is growing fast. The show needs to grow with it. The choice of the best venue for all three shows is still under discussion, therefore, and will be announced shortly.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cotai Water Jet Resumes Routes Between Hong Kong and Macao

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Cotai Water Jet Resumes Routes Between Hong Kong and Macao - VISITMACAO.org - TRAVELINDEXMacao, Macao SAR, January 5, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / As Macao SAR government optimises epidemic prevention measures and further relaxes restrictions on entry from Hong Kong to Macao, Cotai Water Jet announces the resumption of ferry services for the City Routes between Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal (Sheung Wan) and Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal starting from Jan. 8, 2023.

Cotai Water Jet will provide six sailings daily between Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal (Sheung Wan) and Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal at the beginning of services resumption.

Cotai Water Jet, which is wholly-owned by Sands China Ltd., offers a direct high-speed ferry service between Macao and Hong Kong with the sailing time of around an hour. After disembarking from the ferry, visitors can get on the free shuttle buses from Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal to The Venetian Macao, The Parisian Macao and The Londoner Macao , and experience the dazzling city of Macao.

For more details about Cotai Water Jet or to check sailing schedule, please call the hotline on (852) 2859 1640 (Hong Kong) / (853) 2885 0595 (Macao).

About Cotai Water Jet
Launched in November 2007, Cotai Water Jet is a premium high-speed ferry service between Hong Kong and Macao. Its 11 custom-built catamarans have the capacity to carry more than 400 passengers each and operate at top speeds of approximately 42 knots. Passengers on Cotai Water Jet have a choice of three classes of service as well as direct sailings between ports in Macao, Taipa, Hong Kong, Kowloon and Hong Kong International Airport, providing an important transportation option for both locals and visitors to Macao. The Cotai Water Jet service is managed and operated on behalf of owner Sands China Ltd. by Chu Kong High Speed Ferry Co. Ltd. of Hong Kong.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ADVENTURER TALKS TRAVEL: On the ground with Levison Wood

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Levison Wood – perhaps the most famous television adventurer since Michael Palin – says more people want to feel their travels will give them a “spiritual, emotional connection.” The British filmmaker and author adds, “They want to feel good about what their journey has achieved; it is about giving back.”

Speaking at the recent World Travel Market in London, Levison said he believes that most travellers “have a genuine desire to see the best in people.”

Wood has visited 120 countries over the past two decades and told WTM London delegates about his many adventures, from meeting the Dalai Lama in India to tracking elephants in Botswana.

He talked about going off the beaten track in countries such as Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Sudan, and how he is now highlighting the need to protect wildlife in destinations that he visits.

His work has featured on C4, Animal Planet, Discovery, CNBC and National Geographic and he is known for epic walks – along the Nile, the Himalayas and in South America, as well as through the Caucasus Mountains, and around the Arabian Peninsula.

(Ed note: His series, usually about four episodes per hike, are often shown on PBS in Canada and well worth the watch).

Wood at WTM London

“Humans are all explorers; it is deep in our DNA. Everyone here has an explorer’s mindset. When I go on these extended walks, I find that when you put yourself in the same vulnerabilities as the communities you meet, you’ll see less as a tourist and more as a fellow human being,” he said.

He told the audience how he wants to “shine the spotlight on places that may need more attention,” where tourism can be an important bridge between communities, and a “bridge to peace” generally.

Wood recalled how he set up an adventure operator in 2010 called Secret Compass, which opened up tourism in Iraqi Kurdistan and now offers trips to other off-the-beaten-track destinations.

“I entered travel with no experience or background,” the former soldier said. “It was a sense of optimism that there is a desire to look beyond the headlines and go to places that people would shy away from. We sold out immediately: people wanted a sense of adventure. Experiential and meaningful – that is the future of travel.”

He added: “The travel industry plays such a huge part in bridging communities. We are all ambassadors; we have a duty to show what the world can be like.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: May day – Queen guitarist knighted

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Brian May is now a “Sir.” The Queen guitarist, who also has a doctorate in astrophysics and is an animal welfare advocate, received a knighthood as part of the UK’s annual New Year’s Honours list for services to music and charity – the first such list to be signed off by King Charles III.

“Maybe a few more people will listen to me than would otherwise, you know, if it’s Sir Brian on the phone,” May said in an interview, adding he hopes the knighthood will give him “a little bit more clout” – particularly in his animal advocacy efforts.

Amongst other things, May has campaigned against badger culling and fox hunting through an animal welfare group he founded in 2010 – named “Save Me” after the 1980 Queen song. Some animals he’s rescued over the years were released onto his land.

But May, still big-haired to this day (although distinctly grey), is mainly known as the co-founder of the legendary British group Queen – formed in 1970 with the late Freddie Mercury, Roger Taylor, and later John Deacon. Having written many of its biggest hits he also helped forge a distinct sound for the band through his unique guitar work, prompting Total Guitar magazine in 2020 to name him the best rock guitarist of all time.

Perhaps notably, May and Queen (minus Mercury) performed “God Save the Queen” from the roof of Buckingham Palace in 2002 (how’s that for a rooftop concert, Beatles?) and this past summer, opened the Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee concert opposite the palace at the Victoria Monument (banner photo). In the corresponding TV special, the Queen hilariously tapped her teacup with a spoon to the beat of “We Will Rock You” playing outside.

A terrific singer as well, May perhaps suffered only in comparison to his inestimable partner, Mercury, who is considered the greatest rock vocalist ever.

Years ago, I met May, along with Roger Taylor, at a Toronto theatre event at which the pair were promoting a musical they were involved in at the time. And while I found him pleasant and easy-going, such was my respect for the rock legend that, even then, I’m pretty sure I called him “sir.”

Here is May performing – with a little help from about 15,000 friends – a touching version of “Love of My Life,” originally sung by Freddie on the classic 1975 album “A Night at the Opera,” the epic that of course also included “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

Lyrics

Love of my life, you’ve hurt me
You’ve broken my heart and now you leave me
Love of my life, can’t you see?
Bring it back, bring it back
Don’t take it away from me, because you don’t know
What it means to me

Love of my life, don’t leave me
You’ve taken my love (all of my love) and now desert me
Love of my life, can’t you see?
(Please bring it back) Bring it back, bring it back (back)
Don’t take it away from me (take it away from me)
Because you don’t know (oh oh oh know means to me)
What it means to me

Who will remember
When this is blown over
And everything’s all by the way (oh yeah)
When I grow older
I will be there at your side to remind you
How I still love you (I still love you)

Back, hurry back
Please bring it back home to me
Because you don’t know what it means to me
Love of my life
Love of my life

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Mondrian Singapore Duxton Unleashes a People-Powered Movement

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Mondrian Singapore Duxton Unleashes a People-Powered Movement - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, Singapore, January 4, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / It’s hospitality, but not as you know it at Mondrian Duxton Singapore, where General Manager, maverick and all-round mischief-maker Robert C. Hauck is assembling a team unlike any other to launch something special from Q1, 2023.

Hauck has taken a unique approach to hiring under Mondrian’s ‘unexpected talents’ mantra, scouring the streets and hunting in all the right places for the cream of creative types and inspired individuals from both within and outside the industry to deliver a guest experience with a difference.

Call him a conductor, a disruptor, or one who marches to a different drummer; just don’t call him conventional. Hauck has built a career on breaking new ground and thinking outside the box. Now, this philosophy is given free rein at Singapore’s most eagerly awaited hotel.

“Any hotel is only as good as the people who bring it to life,” says Hauck. “Mondrian has given me the freedom to do something truly innovative and really cast the net wide in taking a new approach to assembling a team. It’s all about creating a place for individuals and personalities with a lot to offer but who may not fit in to a conventional hotel. They might be misfits in a sense, but they’ll fit in here.”

“Here” is Duxton Hill, Singapore’s happening precinct non-pareil, home to the latest addition to the Mondrian family of hotels, joining the brand’s properties in Los Angeles, New York, Miami, London, Cannes, Doha and Seoul. Since its launch in LA in 1996 by Ian Schrager, Mondrian Hotels have been brought to life by the quality of their people and a commitment to creativity, art and the unexpected.

Hauck has begun the hiring process by staring at a blank canvas and painting in bold and unexpected strokes. He has already assembled a core team of over 70 people, ensuring there’s a solid backbone of experienced industry operators to which he has added rebels, dreamers and outsiders, creating a fresh perspective for the hotel, a new energy and a collective entrepreneurial spirit.

Avatar of Hauck’s approach is full body-tattooed Ah Seng, who has turned his life around since leaving prison and has always dreamt of having his own restaurant. He has now been hired to be the manager of Bistro 126, Mondrian’s staff restaurant at their hip Shophouse office space. Or take Raymond Leong, 64, senior sales manager of an events and cruise company, laid off during the pandemic, who reinvented himself as a Grab driver, now hired as a quality and training manager, a job he always aspired to doing.

Unexpected talents with diverse backgrounds can be found everywhere. An elderly cleaner who has three diplomas in marketing repurposed as public area supervisor and director of inspiration. An executive assistant who had been enjoying a retirement baking sourdough bread but got bored, after a career in strategic brand planning for brands that are household names. Social media and visual marketing tyros, fresh graduates, a former Olympian athlete, a luxury fashion expert and award-winning bartenders. These are among the passionate and talented characters given another chance to find their calling.

But how to find them? Hauck’s team can be seen handing out ‘We like your style’ cards to begin a conversation. “My motto is chase talent, don’t wait,” he says. “From tattoo conventions to alternative gigs, from art happenings to theatre and sport, it’s about casting the net wide and knowing true talent when you see it. This will be the essence of what we are bringing to the market at Mondrian Singapore Duxton.”

About Mondrian
The debut of Mondrian Singapore Duxton in Southeast Asia follows that of Mondrian Seoul Itaewon in 2020, which signaled the brand’s entry to Asia Pacific. The brand’s portfolio of seven hotels will more than double its footprint by 2023, with upcoming openings in Bordeaux, Cannes and Australia’s Gold Coast to name a few. Mondrian is more than a hotel: it’s a way of travel. Known for its groundbreaking design and progressive programming it is a “must” destination for locals or travelers. Mondrian is always at the heart of the most exciting cultural scenes in the world, serving up innovation and creativity for everyone. Mondrian provides a playful framework so that guests and locals alike can immerse themselves in the culture of each city it inhabits. Design is at the center of the Mondrian experience with hotels designed by some of the world’s most famous architects and designers, including Philippe Starck and Marcel Wanders. Mondrian is part of Ennismore, a creative hospitality company rooted in culture and community, with a global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. Formed in 2021, Ennismore is a joint venture with Accor, which holds a majority shareholding.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Banyan Hua Hin Unveils Conscious Living Inspired Villa Suasana Project

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Banyan Hua Hin Unveils Conscious Living Inspired Villa Suasana Project - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25VILLAS.comHua Hin, Thailand, January 3, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Villa Suasana integrates a multitude of sustainable solutions into the project in the Banyan Residences community. The world is changing. Urbanisation is giving way to escapism as a rising number of city dwellers seek a healthy, active lifestyle, away from the traffic and tension of their metropolitan lives. In line with this rising trend, Banyan Hua Hin is fast-becoming one of the country’s most desirable places to live, work and relax.

Nestled between the mountains and the sea in Hua Hin, on Thailand’s gulf coast, the exclusive community of luxury residences, pool villas, world-class golf and medical facilities has a proven track record of helping Bangkok’s residents to realise their dreams of a new life. Now, the company is building on its successful formula.

The launch of Villa Suasana, an all-new residential concept dedicated to natural and sustainable living, will further enhance Banyan Hua Hin’s status as an appealing destination for a generation of “conscious” urbanites, executives and entrepreneurs.

Villa Suasana is specifically designed for individuals, couples and families who want to experience a sense of freedom and have a more sustainable impact on the planet. Named after the Balinese word for “atmosphere,” these luxurious two- and three-bedroom pool residences offer 180 to 303 square metres of naturally-lit space, with bright and spacious interiors, contemporary furnishings, shady terraces and a refreshing private pool.

The new concept also puts sustainability at its core, with integrated eco solutions including solar panels, salt-water pools and pure water filters. And under a limited-time offer, every new owner will receive two complimentary Segway Ninebot KickScooter F25s – the ultimate clean, green way to get around the Banyan Hua Hin community.

As a further endorsement of its quality, Banyan Residences has been named as the “Best Housing Development – Hua Hin” at the PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards 2022. Judged by a group of industry specialists, the award was based upon the contemporary design of the villas, their liveability and surrounding facilities, which include the highly-acclaimed 18-hole Banyan Golf Club and onsite Be Well Medical Center. Banyan Hua Hin’s senior management team collected the accolade at a black-tie gala ceremony at The Athenee Hotel in Bangkok.

“In the post-pandemic era, society has evolved and people are prioritising their personal health, wellness and sustainability above all else. As flexible, remote working becomes the norm, an increasing number of executives are choosing to avoid the hecticness and time-loss caused by a daily commute in heavy traffic. Bangkok families are spending more of their free time closer to nature and enjoying the beach life. With Banyan Hua Hin and Villa Suasana, business and leisure come together amid uplifting scenery and pure air. It’s a healthy, active and truly inspirational environment,” said Tjeert Kwant, Group CEO of Banyan Thailand.

The award marks the latest vote of confidence for Banyan Hua Hin, from buyers and the industry alike. The community experienced a surge in sales throughout the pandemic as urban residents sought a healthy active lifestyle outside of Bangkok and international long-stay visitors returned in healthy numbers.

Villa Suasana prices start from THB 9.5 million.

About Banyan Thailand, Hua Hin
Stylish, spacious and sophisticated, Banyan Thailand, Hua Hin is a spectacular residential community development nestled between the mountains and the sea near Thailand’s glittering gulf coast. Just 2.5 hours’ drive from Bangkok and 10 minutes from Hua Hin, our private villas come fully equipped with the latest fixtures and facilities. Investors can own their unique private residence in this exclusive estate, guests can rent one of our spacious two-bedroom pool villas for an extended vacation, dine at exceptional restaurants and enjoy activities courtesy of our Banyan Privilege card or play at one of our world-renowned Banyan Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course created by Thailand’s number one golf course architect, Pirapon Namatra.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Centering the Cooler Season with Winter Guestronomic Journey at Elements

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Centering the Cooler Season with Winter Guestronomic Journey at Elements - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 2, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Start 2023 in fabulous flair with the astonishing new ‘Winter Guestronomic Dining Journey’ carefully crafted by Chef Gerard Villaret Horcajo at Elements, inspired by Ciel Bleu at The Okura Prestige Bangkok. This latest dining experience at the renowned Michelin-starred restaurant showcases magnificent premium seasonal ingredients and flavours from some of the finest artisanal producers in Europe and Japan. Available from 4 January 2023 onward.

Chef Gerard’s ‘Winter Guestronomic Dining Journey’ menu is characterised by rich, warm flavours designed to take away seasonal blues. Centering on French cuisine laced with delicate Japanese influences, his dishes are sophisticated in composition and further enhanced using his duo sauce technique. Making menus playful and bold, Chef Gerard continues to celebrate Elements, inspired by Ciel Bleu’s commitment to exquisite fine dining with a twist.

Highlights of the new seasonal set journey include flavourful ‘Ikejime Hamachi’ with kombu, oyster regal and sorrel; a dish of ‘langoustine tail’ with ikura, spinach and veloute that uses whole langoustines to create a deeply rich sauce; and the mouthwatering ‘Brittany lemon sole’ with Japanese hakurei turnip and mussel in which the delicate winter fish is cooked with a classic vadouvan spice marinated in miso and mirin and then rolled in shiso leaves and served with a homemade dashi demi-glaze.

The gastronomic odyssey concludes with a choice of delicate desserts – either way the signature ‘binchotan’ with Japanese whiskey, citrus and caramelize white chocolate; or ‘Provence almonds’ with premium 70% French L’Opera dark chocolate, cranberry and praline rounds off a superb dining adventure on an exquisite sweet note.

The ‘Winter Guestronomic Set Journey’ at Element, inspired by Ciel Bleu, is available from 4 January 2023, from 18:00 hrs. to 22:30 hrs. The ‘Mizu’ 8-course experience is priced at Baht 5,900++ per person; the ‘Chikyu’ 6-course experience is priced at Baht 4,800++ per person; and the ‘Ku-Ki’ 4-course experience is priced at Baht 4,100++ per person.

For more information and reservations please call +66 (0) 2 687 9000

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

AC Hotels by Marriott Celebrates Its Brand Debut in Greater China With the Opening of AC Hotel by Marriott Suzhou

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AC Kitchen at AC Hotel Suzhou
AC Kitchen at AC Hotel Suzhou
AC Hotel by Marriott Suzhou

AC Hotels by Marriott®, the design-led lifestyle brand part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, today announced its brand debut in Greater China with the opening of AC Hotel by Marriott Suzhou. Featuring 135 guestrooms, the new hotel has been expertly refined and crafted to deliver The Perfectly Precise Hotel™ experience right in the heart of the picturesque, ancient water town of Suzhou.

“We are excited to bring AC Hotels by Marriott to Greater China, making it the seventh brand in our Select Brands portfolio in the region, offering diverse experiences for travelers and locals alike,” said Matthew Boettcher, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, Distinctive Select Brand Portfolio. “Suzhou is renowned for its postcard-perfect water channels and canals, home to some exquisitely designed Classical Chinese Gardens that strike a balance of function and beauty, making it the ideal destination to debut the design-driven AC Hotels brand in the country. AC Hotel by Marriott Suzhou will create a seamless guest experience that attracts discerning travelers, providing everything they need and nothing they don’t.”

Known as “Venice of the East,” Suzhou is an ancient water town filled with elegant waterways, quaint alleyways, and peaceful pavilions. AC Hotel by Marriott Suzhou is situated in the heart of the city’s historic Gusu District, home to a rich cultural legacy best exemplified by its Classical Chinese Gardens inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Art and cultural seekers can also visit the many other heritage sites, such as the Lion Grove Garden, the Humble Administrator’s Garden, and the iconic Suzhou Museum. The hotel will also provide easy access to public transportation, with Beisi Pagoda Metro Station within walking distance and Suzhou Railway Station just 2.5 kilometers away. Meanwhile, the 30-minute high-speed train from Shanghai and Suzhou makes it convenient for guests to travel between the two cities.

Adding a serene and minimalist touch to the hotel, the exterior design takes cues from traditional Suzhou architecture with its use of whitewashed walls, dark gray clay tile roofs, and folds of geometries. As for the interior design, the hotel has focused on a careful blend of contemporary and traditional elements, allowing for an authentic yet modern decor that belongs to Suzhou. Upon stepping into the hotel lobby, an exquisite atmosphere greets guests, whose eyes will be drawn to a number of art pieces that pay homage to the new Suzhou Museum, designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei.

The hotel is home to 135 guest rooms and suites, including five garden rooms featuring a private outdoor garden. Drawing inspiration from Suzhou’s classical gardens, the sleek and modern guest rooms are decorated with silk paintings inspired by the ancient city map, creating an elegant and harmonious ambiance. All rooms are well-equipped with thoughtful amenities, such as a 55-inch, high-definition, LCD television, a walk-in shower, and complimentary, high-speed Wi-Fi.

The hotel features a range of collaborative spaces, including the AC Kitchen, an all-day dining restaurant offering various buffet options, which plays tribute to the Spanish roots of AC and offers an extensive a la carte menu serving local delicacies and Spanish-inspired dishes. The signature AC Lounge, with an outdoor terrace, is an ideal place for guests to enjoy al-fresco dining, relax or work during the day. By night, the comfortable and elegant space transforms into a bustling bar, allowing guests to unwind and socialize over locally sourced beers, wines, and cocktails infused with Jiangnan ingredients, highlighting the signature AC Gin Tonic experience.

The hotel houses a 50-square-meter multi-functional space, providing versatility for banquets and business meetings, catering to different guest needs. In addition, the hotel offers a 24-hour fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, allowing guests to maintain their exercise routine while on the road.

“We are delighted to celebrate the opening of AC Hotels’ first property in Greater China. Blending AC’s signature design and concept with Suzhou-style aesthetics, we are proud to showcase the city’s uniqueness to our guests,” said Vincent Li, General Manager of AC Hotel by Marriott Suzhou. “We look forward to welcoming guests to our purposefully designed spaces and curated experiences the brand is known for.”

To learn more about AC Hotels by Marriott® and AC Hotel Suzhou, please visit the AC Hotels website.

About AC Hotels by Marriott®
AC Hotels includes over 215 hotels in 30 countries and territories. At AC Hotels, every moment has been designed, refined, crafted, and considered to create a seamless guest experience. Each AC Hotel features purposefully designed signature spaces that strike the perfect balance of form and function. Most notably, the AC Lounge® invites guests and locals alike to collaborate during the day or to enjoy signature cocktails and tapas in the evening. The AC Kitchen offers a European-inspired breakfast each morning. All AC guest rooms and public spaces evoke a particular sophistication, featuring sleek furnishings, curated artwork, and intuitive technology. The brand is dedicated to the details that matter most to guests during their travels with a mission to deliver The Perfectly Precise Hotel™ experience. For more information, visit the AC Hotels website and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. AC Hotels 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. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit the Marriott Bonvoy website.

About Marriott Bonvoy®
Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit the Marriott Bonvoy website.

Media Contact
Christine Lin
Senior Manager, Global Communications, Select Brands
Marriott International
Christine.Lin@Marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: Dec. 19-30, 2022

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Besides atrocious, debilitating weather across much of the continent, and resulting travel chaos, cancellations, and lost bags, the world of travel continued to turn over the holidays as China took its biggest steps yet to open its borders – in both directions. Also, Air Canada and WestJet were rated for punctuality, and StatsCan said what we all know: Canadians are travelling again. Read on for the rest of the news you have may have missed while shovelling, or unwrapping gifts.

NEWS

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are opening a new NEXUS/Free and Secure Trade (FAST) enrolment centre in Ogdensburg, NY, near Brockville, Ont., today (Jan. 3). CBSA border services officers and US CBP officers will work together at the centre to conduct interviews. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Applicants can schedule their interview on the CBP’s Trusted Traveler portal.

Statistics Canada says Canadian international travel rebounded sharply in October as the transportation industry continued its post-pandemic recovery. The agency says Canadian residents returned from 3.3 million trips abroad in October, nearly four times the figure recorded during the same month of 2021. International arrivals to Canada, which includes both visitors and returning residents of Canada, hit almost three-quarters the level seen in October 2019 before the pandemic began.

BORDERS

The Hong Kong SAR Government announced the lifting of all mandatory PCR test requirements for inbound travellers upon arrival in Hong Kong, as well as the lifting of the Vaccine Pass which allowed access to specified premises and other measures effective Dec. 29.

 China’s announcement that it will end quarantines for travellers from abroad on Jan. 8 is the biggest step toward ending limits that have kept most foreign visitors out of China since early 2020. Quarantines were reduced last month from seven days to five. The government also downgraded the official seriousness of COVID-19 and dropped a requirement for people with the virus to be quarantined. That added to a rapid drumbeat of steps to dismantle controls that had been expected to stay in place at least through mid-2023.

BY THE NUMBERS

Jamaica is set to have a record winter tourist season, with the Jamaica Tourist Board forecasting that it will welcome nearly 1.5 million visitors – 950,000 stopovers and 524,000 from cruise that represents a 67.5% increase in comparison to the same period in 2022. Earnings are projected to increase by 36.3%.

AIR

Aviation analytics company Cirium says Canada’s two biggest airlines ranked low in terms of on-time performance this year. The data firm says that among the 10 biggest airlines in Canada and the US, Air Canada and WestJet Airlines ranked worst and second-worst for their punctuality. Cirium says Air Canada had on-time arrivals (meaning within 15 minutes of the schedule) for about 55.6% of its roughly 143,000 flights as of mid-December. WestJet managed on-time arrivals for 60.7% of its roughly 89,000 flights. Cirium says top-ranked Delta Air Lines had on-time arrivals for about 84% of its 960,000 flights. The data doesn’t include the latest travel woes this past week caused by major winter storms.

Citing “extenuating circumstances,” Sunwing is suspending operations from its Saskatoon and Regina airports through to Feb. 3. The airline says it has been difficult to sort out the delays because of displaced crews and airplanes.

 American Airlines is launching more Caribbean flying from its Miami hub with new service to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). The new seasonal flight, operated daily by Envoy with an Embraer E175 aircraft, will start on June 1 and will run through the summer, restarting again in November.

DEALS

Sunwing’s ‘Boxing Sale Week’ continues through Jan. 8 with non-stop deals on every vacation package to the tropics including Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, St. Lucia, and Costa Rica. The offer applies to travel through April 20.

Silversea Cruises has enhanced its pricing structure with an innovative ‘prepaid’ option for the wave period, offering up to 20% savings on selected port-to-port voyages. Travellers will save between 10% and 20% on new bookings made by Feb. 28 when paying the non-refundable cruise fare in full within five days. Silversea’s wave promotion comprises an extensive door-to-door all-inclusive offering with a reduced deposit of 15%, port-to-port all-inclusive fares for increased flexibility, and new prepaid port-to-port all-inclusive fares for even greater savings.

TOURS

Avalon Waterways has announced plans to bring back author of the bestselling “Outlander” series, Diana Gabaldon, who will host a “Storyteller” cruise on the Danube River in April, 2024. Fans will meet and get insights from the novels/TV show with Gabaldon, while cruising through central Europe on a seven-night “Danube Dreams” cruise from Deggendorf to Budapest.

HOTELS

The Mount Nevis Hotel in St. Kitts and Nevis has re-opened its doors (photo). The family owned and operated hotel has undergone a refresh, including beautifying its seven hectares and refurbishing its 45 rooms and suites.

Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro, is celebrating its centenary year in 2023. The 100 do Copa celebrations kicked off with a traditional ‘White & Gold’ New Year’s Eve party, which will be followed by an iconic, star-studded Copa Ball to mark Rio Carnival in February. A year- long series of events and cultural programming will bring together arts, music, and gastronomy – carefully curated to pay homage to the hotel’s history and its timeless traditions.

RESORTS

Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort has opened its doors and received its first guests. The 1,005-room luxury all-inclusive property is located half an hour from Cancun airport and offers entertainment for all ages, ranging from spa treatments and fitness activities with the latest training equipment, to sparkling pools with cabanas, Kids Club, outdoor theatre, and GameUp Entertainment Center with a trampoline park, bowling alley and a laser tag arena. The resort also boast one of the largest water parks in the Caribbean with 14 monster slides, two lazy rivers and splash pad pools.

Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort has reopened following a US$40-million renovation. Located on Bávaro Beach in the Dominican Republic, the resort 596 newly designed rooms including 58 swim-up suites, refreshed adults-only areas, nine new restaurants, and more. The property has also launched the new Nikté upgraded luxury services that will debut at all Paradisus locations, which includes exclusive services and perks including premium room categories, turndown service, a premium minibar, a personal destination concierge, priority dinner reservations, and a water ritual at the resort’s YHI Spa.

CRUISE

Holland America Line has introduced a limited-edition Pilsner beer – HAL Pils – made in partnership with Pike Brewing that will be served on board across the fleet. Available in a collector’s can adorned with the iconic Jan van Beers poster of 1898 showing a woman in a nautical-blue dress and striped, white hat that mirrors the funnels of the Holland America Line steamship she’s holding above her head, the beer is available in all bars and lounges fleetwide and six-packs also will be available for purchase in the shipboard shops.

Celestyal Stars is a new online training program from Celestyal cruise line, offering a “one-stop shop” for agents booking clients with the Greek islands and Med specialist. Agents will find news, practical tools plus tips on how to earn additional commissions on pre-bookable items and upgrades, as well and competitions and incentives. Visit www.celestyalstars.com.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

TRON Lightcycle /Run, scheduled to open at Magic Kingdom Park in Orlando in spring 2023, will be one of the fastest coasters at any Disney theme park in the world. Based on the Disney sci-fi film TRON: Legacy, guests will speed across a world with no horizons in a high-stakes race in their very own Lightcycle.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

The ‘Captivating Croatia’ FAM trip by Insight Vacations, May 7-13, 2023, begins in Zagreb with a city tour, followed by an excursion to Plitvice National Park where tour participants will join a local expert to learn how research is monitored on the natural species of the park or to meet with the industrious women of the Tara Community Centre who produce handicrafts. In the Old Town of Split, travellers will explore the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace and more and try traditional konoba. On the way to Dubrovnik, advisors will make a stop at the fishing village of Mali Ston where guests eat oysters straight from the sea. And in colourful Dubrovnik, agents can enjoy the view from the seaside hotel before exploring the city on tour and during free time. Apply HERE.

EVENTS

ACTA has announced that it will be once again be hosting travel industry summits in 2023 in Toronto on Sept. 14, Vancouver on Sept. 21, and Montreal on Sept. 27.

Golfers are also encouraged to also save the date for the ACTA Ontario Golf Tournament, which will be held at the Royal Ontario Golf Club in Milton on July 13. And the inaugural ACTA River Cruise Summit, in partnership with Avalon Waterways, will take place in October.  2023.

DESTINATIONS

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach has launched its 2023 Canadian Sand and Sun Offers program, a collection of hotel deals, special offers and discounts available exclusively to Canadian visitors via the CVB’s website, DaytonaBeach.com.

The 21st Annual Dine Out Vancouver Festival, will take place from Jan. 20 to Feb. 5. Patrons at more 350 restaurants across the city can choose set menus offered at three price ranges: $20-$34, $35-$50, or $54-$64. The program will also feature special events, including a street food festival, and downtown Vancouver hotel offers, including a $75 gift card for a one- or two-night booking at participating properties. Event tickets are on sale now and reservations will open Jan. 11. For full details, visit www.dineoutvancouver.com

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1998, British mogul Richard Branson, American millionaire Steve Fossett and Per Lindstrand of Sweden gave up their attempt to make the first non-stop, round-the-world balloon flight, seven days into their journey, ditching off Hawaii.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Spectacular 30,000 Eco-Friendly Fireworks Ring in the New Year at ICONSIAM

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Spectacular 30,000 Eco-Friendly Fireworks Ring in the New Year at ICONSIAM - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 1, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / ICONSIAM in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand along with government agencies, private sectors, hotel operators and communities along the Chao Phraya joined forces to ring in the New Year with a world-class countdown celebration, the “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023.” The Chao Phraya River has been recognized as a ‘global countdown destination’ and the one and only New Year’s Eve celebration landmark of Thailand.

The event was packed with entertainment from world-famous and leading Thai artists led by famous K-Pop artist Mark Tuan from GOT7, offering happiness and hope to the hearts of Thais and the world. Set against the majestic view of Chao Phraya River, the heart and soul and the most beautiful river of the nation, Thailand rang in the year of 2023 together at River Park, ICONSIAM. This is also the first full-scale celebration after the Covid-19 recovery.

The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023 was a collaboration between ICONSIAM, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Charoen Pokphand Group, CP Food, 7-Eleven, True 5G, The ICONSIAM Superlux Residence Corporation Co., Ltd., Magnolia Quality Development Corporation Co., Ltd., and Cardx, alongside government agencies, hotel operators and the community along the Chao Phraya River. Joining forces were also partners from public and private sectors namely the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the Marine Department, the Royal Thai Navy, the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand, Chao Phraya River Business Trade Association, Kadi Chin- Klong San Community Foundation, and the Photographic Society of Thailand under the royal patronage.

The highlight featured a magnificent display over 30,000 eco-friendly fireworks made from Thai sticky rice.

That lit up over 1,400 meters along the majestic Chao Phraya River, marked as the most spectacular and longest firework show in Thailand above the Chao Phraya River. The fireworks were visible to millions in a five-kilometre radius. There were the first ‘Hybrid World Countdown,’ through ONESIAM SuperApp, featuring augmented reality (AR) technology enhancing viewers’ experiences that portrays the stories of the seven acts of the firework display. The new augmented reality was co-created by world-forefront firework master from Japan Okushi Yoshimasa and a Thai company recognized internationally Brother Pictures Co., Ltd. Themed ‘Win the World for Thailand,’ the firework extravaganza aimed to bring joy and hope to the hearts of Thai people the world.

The 7-act fireworks display at the “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023” event consisted of:

Act 1: The Joy of Siam reflected the merry and vibrant way of live of Thais with traditions and performances that evoke smiles and happiness, even in the challenging times.

Act 2: Enchanting Land portrayed Thailand as the kingdom of fine craftsmanship, whether architecture, painting, handicrafts, fashion, or food, that are simple yet so exquisite.

Act 3: Eternal Prosperity was visualized through golden fireworks symbolizing golden rice field along with colorful fireworks representing the varieties Thai flavors and the abundance – In the water there are fish, in the fields there is rice.

Act 4: Heroic Spirit a grand firework showdown that reflects never-give-up spirit of Thai people, wading the obstacles, moving forward and ring in the New Year together full of hope.

Act 5: Sharing Possibilities passed on endless opportunities with green, gold, and colorful ring-shaped fireworks are the symbol of future, keeping up with the world, sharing and creating endless possibilities which will bring opportunities, equality, unity, and sustainability for a better tomorrow.

Act 6: Beautiful Harmon was a large set of white fireworks that gradually sprinkled like a large umbrella spread across the sky, symbolizing peace and unity and accepting difference among people of the nation.

Act 7: Win the world for Thailand Together portrayed the spirit Thai hearts. The fireworks featured colors of Thai national flag representing Thailand and decorated with various forms of fireworks, a collaboration of Thai hearts to ‘Win the World for Thailand.

ICONSIAM took pride in the collaboration with various sectors to host the world-class “ Amazing Thailand Countdown 2023,” to share the mesmerizing night with all Thais and the world to witness the beauty of the Chao Phraya River. The event were live broadcasted via Thai Rath TV Channel 32HD, online channels via Facebook ICONSIAM, Thai Rath Online, Khaosod and Matichon and TrueID application. In previous years the beauty of ‘Global Countdown Destination’ ICONSIAM was brought to the world through social media and global news agencies such as CNN, BBC, AP, Reuters, and ABC, etc., and all over the world. The world witnessed the beauty of the New Year Eve night on the Chao Phraya River, the heart and soul of Thai , that created a memorable memories. It also stimulates tourism and the Thai economy, given that it’s the first year of post-COVID-19 recovery.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News