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European Brand Tivoli Hotels Debuts in China with Opening in Chengdu

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European Brand Tivoli Hotels Debuts in China with Opening in Chengdu - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXChengdu, China, April 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Tivoli Hotels and Resorts, a luxury Portuguese-rooted hospitality brand, has announced an important milestone in its expansion strategy throughout Asia with the opening of Tivoli Chengdu at Cultural Heritage Park.

Developed in partnership with Chengdu Qingyang Urban and Rural Construction Development Company Limited, the 201-room luxury property is located in the International Intangible Cultural Heritage Park, in Chengdu. While holidaymakers will enjoy direct access to the park’s purpose-built exhibition halls showcasing world cultures, business travellers will appreciate the proximity of Chengdu Shuangliu Airport located just 19 kilometres away and the hotel’s state-of-the-art meeting facilities.

Chengdu, a thriving cultural and commercial capital of Sichuan Province, has an established travel industry thanks to its pleasant climate, a bevy of historical attractions, excellent food, and a world-renowned breeding and research base for giant pandas. Opening the doors to these thrilling urban experiences, Tivoli Chengdu will feature a collection of signature Tivoli moments twinned with authentic cultural discoveries.

Designed to resemble a spread-out gilded scroll, the property is nestled into lush, green surroundings. In the soaring lobby, hibiscus pillars and earthenware artworks aim to bring Chengdu’s natural landscapes indoors, while inside the spacious Deluxe Rooms muted tones and luxury furnishings create a deeply relaxing environment. At 75 square metres, the signature Tivoli Rooms provide ample space and a luxurious residential feel enhanced by nature-inspired art, such as the handmade butterfly print over the bed chosen for its symbolism and lucky connotations.

With six dining and lifestyle venues, gastronomy is a major highlight of the Tivoli Chendgu experience. Casa de Fados, the first Portuguese restaurant in Chengdu, will host a European-style Sunday brunch, as well as serving daily seafood-rich Mediterranean meals paired with fine wines on a sunny terrace surrounded by a garden. Another signature venue, Tihong Chinese Restaurant, is designed as a lively family hub where diners can sample dim sum and contemporary Szechuan and Cantonese dishes prepared with ingredients sourced from Chengdu and its environs. The restaurant’s 11 private dining rooms are each named after the prose poems penned by the great Chengdu-born poet, Sima Xiangru.

At the all-day dining CAFÉ 1933, chefs concoct exquisite dishes from around the globe, with a focus on South-east Asian specialties. Lobby Lounge will offer light Western meals and casual dining in vibrant surrounds, with premium teas served at the adjacent antique tea room. Fun DIY bakery sessions and chocolate workshops will be offered as part of the family-friendly Mr Fun Bakery House experience, an extension of the Lobby Lounge. Family picnic sets are also available to enjoy out in the gardens or in Chengdu Cultural Heritage Park. A must at Tivoli Chengdu are sundowners and celebrations at the Sky Bar offering panoramic views over the park and classic Tivoli cocktails.

The property’s 800-square-metre outdoor Kids’ Garden will provide baby-sitting services as well as offering dedicated pet’s bed, pet’s menu, and a spacious play area. Other amenities include a fully-equipped health centre, the renowned Anantara Spa and a soon-to-open swimming pool. With its 2,275-square-metre pillarless banquet hall and heritage-themed coffee breaks, Tivoli Chengdu is perfectly positioned for events of any size and style. The 3,650-square-metre outdoor lawn, in the meantime, is ideal for weddings and social celebrations.

A short walking distance from Tivoli Chengdu is Chengdu Metro Line 4, providing convenient access to local popular attractions such as the Broad and Narrow Alley, Du Fu Thatched Cottage, Qingyang Palace, Huanhuaxi Park and Tianfu Square. Nancaoping Ecology Park and the 18-hole Tianfu Golf Club are also within easy reach.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Visit Seattle Names Tammy Blount-Canavan as Next President & CEO

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Visit Seattle Names Tammy Blount-Canavan as Next President & CEO - WEBOFWOMEN.com - TRAVELINDEXSeattle, United States, April 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Following a nationwide search, Visit Seattle and its Board of Directors announce that Tammy Blount-Canavan, FCDME (Fellow Certified Destination Marketing Executive) will serve as its President and CEO, effective May 9. She will be Visit Seattle’s first female CEO, replacing longtime leader Tom Norwalk, who retired earlier this spring.

Blount-Canavan’s rich leadership history spans two countries and three decades first in the hotel industry in her hometown of Vancouver, BC, to a previous role as President and CEO of the Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau. She has strong ties to the Puget Sound area, having served as President and CEO of the Tacoma Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau from 2008-2012.

“I am thrilled to welcome Tammy Blount-Canavan to Seattle,” said Carla Murray, President, U.S. Western Region Marriott International. “She has made her mark in Vancouver, Tacoma, Monterey and I look forward to working with her again in her new role as leader of Visit Seattle. Her skills and expertise will assist us in growing our business well into the future.”

Most recently, she was EVP, Principal at Fired-Up! Culture, a business management consulting firm focused on leadership and culture development. She is a past-chair of Destinations International, the international trade association for destination marketing organizations. She was recognized as CEO of the Year while in Monterey, one of the 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry, and twice as one of the top 25 Most Influential Women in the industry. She was recognized as Community Leader of the Year, Sustainability Advocate for the California Travel Association, Leading for Positive Impact by the Canadian Impact Conference, and was the 2019 recipient of Destination International’s Global Leadership Award. During her time at Tacoma Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau, she also worked to establish and was the first chair for the Washington Tourism Alliance, now State of Washington Tourism. Blount-Canavan worked at Tourism Vancouver in senior management for over a decade.

Blount-Canavan says her vision for Visit Seattle is to build on its strong foundation as a dynamic, bold, innovative organization, strengthening relationships and partnerships to elevate Seattle as the nation’s best city to visit, live and do business in.

“I am honored to serve as Visit Seattle’s first female President and CEO,” said Blount-Canavan. “This city has been close to my heart for as long as I can remember. I love Seattle’s beauty, authenticity and culture – the city’s potential is limitless. I am beyond thrilled to be a part of this great city’s leadership.”

Blount-Canavan’s experience in the meetings and conventions space is in high demand as Visit Seattle is poised to make waves in the industry. Following a rebrand, the Washington State Convention Center will become the Seattle Convention Center starting the week of April 18. The $1.9 billion addition, Summit, is under construction and slated to open in January 2023, doubling its capacity.

“I was excited to learn that Tammy Blount-Canavan has been chosen to succeed Tom Norwalk as the new President and CEO,” said Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International. “Tammy is an experienced and passionate leader who is very familiar with the Seattle region and its many offerings for leisure visitors, meetings and conventions and business travelers.”

She replaces Tom Norwalk, who served as Visit Seattle’s President and CEO for 15 years. Under Norwalk’s leadership, Seattle set all-time records for tourism visitation and spending. He recently oversaw an effort to increase the Seattle Tourism Improvement Area (STIA) assessment, which was passed unanimously by Seattle City Council and signed by Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell in March 2022. The increased assessment will allow Visit Seattle to competitively promote leisure travel during a critical recovery phase.

“I am so happy for Tammy, our Visit Seattle team and our incredible city,” said Tom Norwalk, former President & CEO, Visit Seattle. “I have so enjoyed working with Tammy over the years – in forming the Washington Tourism Alliance – or, on the streets of Shanghai representing and promoting our region to key clients and media in China. I have witnessed firsthand, that she knows and loves this city and region.”

“With the announcement of Tammy Blount-Canavan, Visit Seattle is about to continue its well-earned, long-standing reputation as having the cleverest and widely respected CEOs in the DMO world when it comes to working with clients—be they convention decision makers, tour operators, cruise companies, individual visitors or the community itself,” said Rick Antonson, former President and CEO of Tourism Vancouver. “Bravo Seattle.”

Blount-Canavan enjoys walking, hiking, travel and family—along with a good spy novel—during her free time. While she enjoys Seattle’s iconic locations like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, her favorite spot to take people on a clear day is Kerry Park, for its spectacular views of the skyline. Tammy and husband Patrick Canavan are eager to establish their home in Seattle and excited to join the community.

About Visit Seattle
Visit Seattle has served as the official destination marketing organization (DMO) for Seattle and King County for more than 50 years. A 501(c)(6) organization, Visit Seattle enhances the economic prosperity of the region through global destination branding along with competitive programs and campaigns in leisure travel marketing, convention sales and overseas tourism development.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

JW Marriott Debuts in Guadalajara, Mexico´s Second Largest City

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JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara - Interior Lobby - 1.jpg
Hotel Renderings, Courtesy: JW Marriott

JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, arrives in Guadalajara with the opening of JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara, ushering in a new level of luxury and sophistication to the second largest city in Mexico. With meaningful design, exceptional service, and a holistic approach to well-being, the hotel brings the JW Marriott brand’s mindfulness principles to life, allowing guests to be present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit with each stay.

The hotel, managed by Aimbridge Prisma and developed by Grupo Favier, is located in the Guadalajara Country Club area, one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in the city, surrounded by service and financial corporations, as well as shopping and entertainment venues. It is near the city’s major tourist attractions including the Historic Center, Hospicio Cabañas – a World Heritage Site – and Pueblos Mágicos (“Magical Towns”) of Tequila and Chapala.

“We are proud to welcome JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara into our growing portfolio of remarkable hotels in Mexico,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Guadalajara is a bustling, dynamic, cultural center of Mexico, one which sees business and leisure travelers from around the world. It is our hope to offer these guests a respite from the outside world, in a modern, luxurious setting for travelers who wish to nourish their mind, body, and spirit at every turn.”

An urban retreat to escape the hustle and bustle, relax and be present, the property offers 191 rooms and suites, including a spectacular Presidential Suite with its own lap pool and panoramic views of the city, offering business or leisure guests a one-of-a-kind experience. The architecture of the hotel was created by the renowned firm of Javier Sordo Madaleno, while the interiors were enlivened by Arquitectura de Interiores – one of the most prestigious interior design firms in the world. Each guest room was designed to evoke a sense of residential comfort, creating the perfect environment to feel inspired.

Guests will enjoy unobstructed views of the city of Guadalajara as well as elevated dining experiences at the property’s various dining outlets including Zibu, created by renowned Chef Eduardo Palazuelos, and offering a unique gastronomic experience that fuses the flavors of Asia and Mexico in a conceptual, architectural, and decorative concept setting. JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara is also home to the JW Executive Lounge serving breakfast and cocktails as well as a wide variety of the region’s star spirit: Tequila at the Agave Bar, while it also features a harmonious space to conduct business meetings.

Featuring a 24/7 fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment and amenities, JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara allows guests to keep up with their workout routine while on the road. A beautiful swimming pool with sweeping views of the city is available for a refreshing dip. The hotel´s convenient location and four meeting rooms make it a perfect setting for meetings and events, with spaces that can accommodate up to 110 guests.

ABOUT JW BRAND
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott 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 marriottbonvoy.com.

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. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. 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 marriottbonvoy.com.

MEDIA CONTACT
Alexandru Otero Tamayo, PR Coordinator, Caribbean & Latin America
Marriott International
Alexandru.Otero@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

FLOWER POWER AT THE TOWER: ‘Superbloom’ to mark Queen’s Jubilee

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Best known for its crown jewels and famous historic prisoners, not least some of the unlucky wives of Henry VIII, the Tower of London is set to present a new face this summer when it will be encircled by millions of flowers to help celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.

This spring, 20 million carefully selected seeds will be sown in the Tower’s famous moat, creating a vibrant sea of flowers – dubbed “Superbloom” – which will continuously evolve from June to September, changing colours and patterns throughout the summer.

With a planting scheme designed to attract bees, pollinators and seed-eating birds, the display will provide a biodiverse space to support wildlife. Moreover, Superbloom will be the first stage of a permanent transformation of the famous moat into a new natural landscape in the heart of the City of London and which, for years to come, will be new habitat and green haven for pollinators, insects, and seed-eating birds.

In recent years, the vast 14,000-sq.-m. moat has been for been the setting for two major floral commemorations of the Centenary of the First World War: the 2014 ‘Poppies’ and 2018 ‘Flames’ installations.

However, the space has had many uses in its long history: it has housed a medieval orchard, a grazing ground for Victorian livestock, and even allotments during the Second World War. In 1977, to mark HM The Queen’s Silver Jubilee, the moat provided a fitting location for a garden display.

Now, almost half a century later, the moat will once again be the setting for the Tower’s jubilee tribute. For the first time, a space built in the 13th century to keep people out of the Tower, will welcome visitors in – from June, it will be open every day for visitors to explore and see the spectacle of the Superbloom close up.

The project was conceived by Historic Royal Palaces (HRP), the charity that cares for the Tower of London, and planned over several years, resulting in a design that will bring a burst of spectacular natural beauty to the Tower, while creating a significant new and much needed resource for pollinators and birds.

Early tests in Summer 2021 demonstrated the power of even a small number of flowers to increase the biodiversity in the moat. When the ‘Superbloom’ display ends in September, the new natural landscape created to support it will remain in the moat as a permanent Jubilee legacy.

Poppies have previously filled the Tower’s famous moat

An explosion of colour within London’s urban landscape, the Tower’s Superbloom will also celebrate the value of nature to our wellbeing. The positive impact of green space on health is widely recognized and the pandemic has highlighted its importance. Historic Royal Palaces hopes that the transformation of the moat – a previously underused space – will inspire similar positive change across the country. For example, schoolchildren are being invited to take part in a major initiative to support the project; growing their own displays, created from a special palette of seeds, to bloom alongside the one at the Tower – and learning about what gardens can do to improve sustainability and support ecology as part of that process.

Historic Royal Palaces also plans to host smaller floral displays across its other sites – including at Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, and Hillsborough Castle, to mark the Jubilee.

Nigel Dunnett, Professor of Planting Design and Urban Horticulture at University of Sheffield, said, “We hope that the effect of being surrounded by a sea of colourful, sparkling, and vibrant flowers will release feelings of pure liberated joy in visitors to the Superbloom – it will be such a powerful, emotional, and celebratory experience. We’ve undertaken a lot of testing and trials to ensure that we deliver dramatic and beautiful impressionistic blends of colours, a long and continuous sequence of flowering, and a wonderful place for pollinating insects.’

The Superbloom began seeding in March and will run from June 1 to Sept. 18. Tickets on are sale now and pre-booking is essential. Packages include Tower and Superbloom, or just the latter. Click .

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

American Airlines to Begin Service Between Anguilla and Miami

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American Airlines to Begin Service Between Anguilla and Miami - TOP25ISLANDS.com - TRAVELINDEXThe Valley, Anguilla, April 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Anguilla Tourist Board and American Airlines have announced that the airline will operate daily flights from Miami International Airport (MIA) into Anguilla’s Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) as of April 2, 2022.

Anguilla’s Minister of Tourism and Infrastructure Haydn Hughes said in a press statement, “The agenda to bring change to Anguilla continues to be manifested as we navigate the challenges of today’s world. We have been able to safely reopen our island for business and both investors and visitors have made Anguilla the destination of choice.

The reality of American Airlines’ inaugural flight into Anguilla was an idea that is now bearing fruit. To that end, we announced an increase of three flights into our destination beginning in January 2022. I am pleased that this partnership continues to flourish even in the early stage, and today we announce the commencement of daily flights to and from Anguilla/Miami in April 2022.”

Speaking about the importance of the move, the minister added, “This is a tremendous vote of confidence in our destination, as American Airlines has the equipment and the route network that will enable us to significantly increase our arrivals and further develop our tourism product.”

Applauding the move was Anguilla Tourist Board Chairman Kenroy Herbert, who said, “The introduction of these scheduled flights will be a game-changer for our tourism industry. Access is the most critical factor for any destination, and the Miami gateway provides excellent connectivity from the West Coast, so it opens up lucrative new markets for Anguilla. This new service will create a host of business and leisure tourism opportunities for our island.”

The new schedule is loaded into American Airlines’ system and flights are available for booking. Flights from Miami will depart daily from Miami International Airport at 10:50 a.m. and arrive in Anguilla at 2:49 p.m. Flights from Anguilla to Miami will depart from Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport at 3:40 p.m. and arrive in Miami at 5:53 p.m.

The Miami service to Anguilla began on December 11, 2021 with twice-weekly flights, and increased to three flights a week from January 5-March 31, 2022. The decision to operate a daily service was made based on the strong load factors to the island throughout the winter months.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Announces Speakers for Global Summit in Philippines

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WTTC Announces Speakers for Global Summit in Philippines - VISITPHILIPPINES.org -TRAVELINDEXManila, Philippines, April 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) unveils its speakers for its upcoming Global Summit in Manila, which includes Indonesian/Dutch activist Melati Wijsen.

Discover and Experience the Philippines with VisitPhilippines Travel Guide – It’s More Fun in the Philippines

At just 12 years old, activist Melati Wijsen founded Bye Bye Plastics – a global movement powered by youths around the world to end the use of plastic bags, and in 2018 alongside her sister, was named one of the “World’s most influential teens” by Time magazine.

Taking place in Manila, Philippines from 20-22 April, the global tourism body’s highly anticipated 21st Global Summit is the most influential Travel & Tourism event in the calendar.

Industry leaders will gather with more than 20 government representatives in Manila, to continue aligning efforts to support the sector’s recovery and move beyond to a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.

South Korean politician Ban Ki-Moon who served as the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations between 2007 and 2016, will also address delegates virtually at this prestigious event.

Also taking to the stage at the Global Summit will be the Tourism Ministers from around the world including Spain, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand, Japan, Maldives, and Barbados amongst others.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We are delighted to have such influential speakers already confirmed for our Global Summit in Manila.

“Melati is an inspiration to us all. A real changemaker, who from such a young age, has been instrumental in raising awareness of the damage caused by plastic and has inspired young people around the world to lead change.

“After more than two years, the region is perfectly positioned to post the losses caused by the pandemic. WTTC’s Global Summit will act as a catalyst to drive forward the recovery of a sector that is critical for both the economy and jobs.”

Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Philippine Tourism Secretary, said: “Preparations are underway to ensure the success of WTTC’s Global Summit in Manila, which serves as the light at the end of tunnel following a long period of darkness for global tourism.

“It is heartening that these inspiring individuals have joined our efforts to bring the industry onward to full recovery” Puyat added.

Other notable speakers taking to the stage during the Global Summit will be international business leaders such as Arnold Donald, President & CEO Carnival Corporation and Chairman at WTTC; Greg O’Hara, Founder and Senior Managing Director Certares and Vice Charman at WTTC; Craig Smith, Group President International Division Marriott International; Maria Anthonette Velasco-Allones, COO Tourism Promotion Board Philippines; Federico Gonzalez, CEO Radisson; and Nelson Boyce, Head of Travel for the Americas at Google Inc.

A hybrid event, WTTC’s Global Summit will also feature Kelly Craighead, President & CEO CLIA; Jane Sun, CEO Trip.com, Ariane Gorin, President Expedia for Business; and Darrell Wade, Chairman Intrepid Group; amongst others.

More speakers will be announced over the coming weeks.

The WTTC Global Summit is taking place in the Philippines at a time when the country and the region begins to recover from the pandemic and will showcase the importance of Travel & Tourism in the region.

WTTC’s recent research shows the forecast for the Asia Pacific region could see its Travel & Tourism sector approaching pre-pandemic levels this year.

According to the research, the sector’s contribution to the region’s GDP could reach USD 2.9 trillion, near pre-pandemic levels, while employment could reach over 190 million jobs, surpassing 2019 figures and providing an additional five million jobs to the sector.

To reach close to pre-pandemic levels this year, WTTC says governments across the region and around the world must continue focusing on the vaccine and booster rollout – allowing fully vaccinated travellers to move freely without the need for testing.

Discover and Experience the Philippines with VisitPhilippines Travel Guide – It’s More Fun in the Philippines

The WTTC Global Summit in Manila is sponsored by Resorts World Manila, Global Rescue, Okada Manila, Turkish Airlines, Cebu Pacific Air, Etihad Airways, Philippine Airlines, Tourism Promotion Board Philippines, Hilton Manila, UBE Express, Inc., Tieza, Nissan Philippines, Inc., Press Reader, SSI Group, Xpansiv.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Zimbabwe Launches First UNWTO National Tourism Satellite Account

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Harare, Zimbabwe, April 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has partnered with the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry (MECTHI) of Zimbabwe to launch the country’s first National Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) today.

The Account shows the size and significance of the tourism sector for the Zimbabwean economy, based on the last available pre-COVID-19 data and on data gathered before the formal transition of national currency from US dollar into the Zimbabwean Dollar. The TSA revealed that tourism accounted for 4.25% of the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP) with a value of USD1.03 billion in 2018. In 2019 the sector accounted for 6.3% of GDP with a value of USD1.23 billion. At the same time, the data also shows that tourism accounted for 1.56% of national employment levels in 2018, with around 100 000 jobs supported and created.

The TSA was produced as part of the Zimbabwe Destination Development Program, a technical assistance program supported by International Finance Corporation (IFC). As well as recording the number of tourists visiting the country, the initiative also provides monetary and non-monetary tourism data related to demand and supply and measures the value of expenditure on goods and services across all types of tourism as well as the value of tourism-sector industries producing goods and/or services. It will be used for quantifying tourism’s contribution to GDP and national employment rates.

Data for tourism’s restart and recovery
Tourism in Zimbabwe has been significantly impacted by the pandemic, with the introduction of travel restrictions and lower demand from tourists leading to a massive fall in visitors. The loss to the national economy is estimated at USD690m. According to the IFC’s Country Manager, Adamou Labara said, ‘these empirical findings highlight the opportunity for policymakers in Zimbabwe to support recovery of the tourism sector through stimulating traveller demand, and responsibly reducing barriers to entry’.

By addressing information gaps and supporting a data-driven approach to policy development and investment decisions, the TSA should prove particularly relevant to Zimbabwe’s tourism sector as it works towards sustainable recovery and growth from the impacts of the pandemic. The development of the TSA is one of the key milestone projects for the tourism sector under the National Development Strategy (NDS1 2021-2025).

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cartier Unveils Re-imagined Retail Experience at Bangkok Airport

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Cartier Unveils Re-imagined Retail Experience at Bangkok Airport - TOP25LUXURYCOLLECTIONS - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, April 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Cartier has emerged stronger than ever in its pursuit to cater to new travelers’ wants and needs, showing renewed commitment with their trusted partner – King Power International to accelerate the Maison’s presence in major airports.

Unwavering in its dedication to elevating client experience, Cartier introduces its latest airport boutique concept at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport. With this refined and impactful architectural statement, the Maison writes another bold chapter in its story as a distinctive brand within travel retail.

From feminine to masculine universes, a well-defined product zoning integrates seamlessly different product categories to create a fluid customer journey. A subtle combination of Cartier codes and local colors evoke an elegant and grandiose boutique, equipped with fine details to enhance the mood of travel, including drawer pull handles resembling luggage handles. A dedicated ‘‘icon bar’ is also incorporated, where shoppers with limited time at the airport can easily access the Maison’s signature creations.

To give a sense of place, local elements are infused into each boutique concept to deliver singular experiences to travelers. The interiors of the boutique at Bangkok airport feature signature hues of Cartier, creating a warm and inviting space

Since a blossoming partnership in 2004 with King Power International Company, Cartier’s boutique at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok has gone from strength to strength.

Strategically located at the gateway after customs clearance, its present location was a result of a move on March 1st 2022. Tradition meets modernity with an unmissable 40-meter façade, complete with two wide entrances to create fluid customer flow.

The interiors are subtle and Cartier adds its signature touches to create a warm and inviting space with well-defined and integrated product zoning, creating quintessentially Cartier.

Most notably, the boutique is the first in the Southeast Asia & Oceania region to enchant the senses with its full range of jewelry and watches under the Maison’s female, male and unisex product offerings.

“With Cartier, our longstanding partner, we proudly introduce the reinvigorated boutique at Suvarnabhumi Airport, which enables us to initiate contemporary conversations with clients as we continue to uphold our tradition of service in making travelers feel at home.” Antares Cheng, Chief Merchandising Officer, King Power International

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Expects to Quadruple Its Portfolio in Vietnam with a Signed Pipeline of 30 Hotels

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The Westin Resort & Spa Cam Ranh - Haven Lounge
The Westin Resort & Spa Cam Ranh – Haven Lounge

With the recent reopening of Vietnam’s borders, Marriott International, Inc. today announced plans to expand its portfolio in Vietnam, expecting to add nearly 9,000 rooms within the company’s portfolio and see the debut of key brands including Ritz-Carlton Residences, Marriott Hotels, Westin, and Courtyard by Marriott.

“Vietnam experienced impressive pre-pandemic economic growth driven in part by coordinated development policies and the strong investment in infrastructure,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China), Marriott International. Our growth in Vietnam reflects the trust our local owners and franchisees continue to have in Marriott International, and we look forward to presenting them with opportunities to leverage our comprehensive portfolio of 30 brands, as well as our strong distribution network.”

Premium Brands Lead the Way
Marriott’s premium brands continue to resonate in Vietnam. As the most global brand within the portfolio, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, expects to make its debut in several new destinations across Vietnam, including on the Emerald Island of Phu Quoc, the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, the “City of Eternal Springs” Dalat and the shores of Binh Chau. A stylish new Renaissance Hotels is planned to open in the seafront city of Danang, while Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts plans to debut in Danang and Cam Ranh. The flagship Marriott Hotels brand is expected to debut in Hanoi, and Hoi An, while the Westin – the company’s leading wellness brand – is expected to open in Hanoi and Cam Ranh. Marriott Executive Apartments, the popular longer-stay brand, is also slated to start welcoming guests in Danang.

Select Service Brands Continue Rapid Growth
Marriott’s select service portfolio is driving strong momentum for growth in Vietnam, providing a range of offerings for both domestic and international travelers. Fairfield by Marriott is slated to be introduced in locations such as Vinh Yen, Ha Long and Hanoi, while several Courtyard by Marriott hotels are expected to open across Danang, Ha Long and Nha Trang.

A Burgeoning Branded Residences Market
Marriott continues to lead the branded residential segment with nearly 190 projects open or in development worldwide. Asia Pacific (excluding China) is one of the world’s fastest growing regions for branded residences, led in part by significant growth in Vietnam where Marriott International anticipates opening several Marriott branded residences over the next four years. In 2021, the company announced a milestone branded residential project that is expected to include close to 4,200 dual-branded residential and officetel units in Ho Chi Minh City. The project is expected to serve as the world’s largest hotel-branded residential project and is slated to open in phases in late 2024. The highly anticipated The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Hanoi also expects to make its debut in Vietnam in 2024.

“Vietnam is a vibrant destination and has over the years experienced record levels of tourism as international travelers flocked to the country and domestic travelers began to discover the many wonders available in their own backyard,” said Jakob Helgen, Area Vice President – Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia & Myanmar, Marriott International. “With the recent reopening of borders, we are hopeful for Vietnam to rebound rapidly, and we are excited to expand across even more parts of this captivating country.”

Marriott International currently operates ten properties in Vietnam, comprising 3,294 rooms and spanning six of the company’s brands. These hotels and resorts are located across six key business and leisure destinations including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc and Binh Duong.

For more information about Marriott International, please visit www.marriott.com.

Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to unit and rooms growth; our growth pipeline; expected hotel and other project openings and brand debuts in certain markets; growth and demand trends and expectations for certain product types and in certain markets; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of approximately 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sleepover-of-a-Lifetime: Marriott Bonvoy Creates a Sleepover Suite in the Home of Manchester United for the First-Ever Overnight Stay

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Marriott Bonvoy Sleepover Suite, inspired by Marriott Hotels, overlooking Old Trafford Stadium
James North

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 hotel brands, award-winning loyalty program, and endless experiences along with Manchester United, one of the world’s most popular sports teams, today are offering fans the chance to win the first-ever overnight stay at Old Trafford. One lucky fan and a guest will have the chance to wake up in the legendary football stadium on match day from the comfort of a suite transformed into a Marriott Hotels guest room overlooking the pitch.

The winner of the Suite of Dreams global sweepstakes will enjoy an extraordinary one-of-a-kind prize with an overnight stay the night before the home Premier League match against Chelsea in May 2022. The winners will get the chance to take part in a number of behind-the-scenes experiences that bring them right to the heart of Manchester United. These include watching the team train, a behind the scenes tour of the stadium, the chance to mix and mingle with club legends and matchday tickets and hospitality.

“Bringing our flagship brand, Marriott Hotels, to Old Trafford is just one of the ways we are bringing the extraordinary Marriott Bonvoy portfolio to life through our collaboration with Manchester United, one of the world’s most popular sports teams,” said Brian Povinelli, Senior Vice President, Brand, Loyalty & Portfolio Marketing, Marriott International. “We’re thrilled to be creating this hospitality experience at this iconic location, giving a once-in-a-lifetime chance for fans to wake up in the home of Manchester United on the morning of a matchday.”

In its third year partnering with Manchester United, Marriott Bonvoy continues to offer exclusive once-in-a-lifetime experiences to football fans, travelers, and members of its award-winning travel program, including:

  • Marriott Bonvoy’s in-stadium ‘Seat of Dreams’
  • Exclusive Marriott Bonvoy MomentsTM experiences for members of Marriott Bonvoy’s award-winning travel program
  • In- and out of-stadium activations with Marriott Hotels, the flagship brand within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. This includes the M Club Suite at Old Trafford, designed in the style of the brand’s M Clubs, a dedicated space for Marriott Bonvoy members to relax and connect at Marriott Hotels around the world
  • Access to interviews and one-on-one conversation with players

“From the very beginning of our partnership, Marriott Bonvoy has created some truly unique experiences, and this is no exception,” said Victoria Timpson, Manchester United’s CEO of Alliances and Partnerships “Whoever wins this opportunity will receive the same first-class hospitality as they would at any Marriott Hotels property around the world, with the added excitement of being hosted at the ‘Theatre of Dreams’, one of the world’s most iconic football stadiums.”

To enter, visit ManUtd.com/SuiteofDreams and complete the form before 11:59 EST on April 15, 2022. See website for full terms and conditions.

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 marriottbonvoy.com.

About Marriott Hotels®
With over 590 hotels and resorts in more than 65 countries and territories around the world, Marriott Hotels is evolving travel through every aspect of the guest’s stay, helping to relax, clear minds, stimulate new ideas, and anticipate travelers’ needs, leaving them inspired to reach their full potential. Boldly transforming itself for mobile and global travelers who blend work and play, Marriott leads the industry with innovations, including the Greatroom lobby and Mobile Guest Services that elevate style & design and technology. To learn more, visit www.MarriottHotels.com. Stay connected to Marriott Hotels on Facebook, @marriott on Twitter and @marriotthotels on Instagram. Marriott 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 marriottbonvoy.com.

About Manchester United
Manchester United is one of the most popular and successful sports teams in the world, playing one of the most popular spectator sports on Earth. Through our 144-year heritage we have won 66 trophies, enabling us to develop the world’s leading sports brand and a global community of 1.1 billion fans and followers. Our large, passionate community provides Manchester United with a worldwide platform to generate significant revenue from multiple sources, including sponsorship, merchandising, product licensing, new media & mobile, broadcasting and match day.

Media Contact
Danielle Mileno
Marriott International
Danielle.Mileno@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News