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Best Western Hotels Welcomes the World Back to Thailand

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Best Western Hotels Welcomes the World Back to Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand, February 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Are you ready to return to the “Land of Smiles”? With Thailand’s “Test & Go” program for quarantine-free travel returning on February 1st, 2022, Best Western Hotels and Resorts is ready to welcome international travelers back to the Kingdom with a special package!

Under the rebooted program, fully vaccinated visitors from any country or territory worldwide can apply for a “Thailand Pass”. Arriving in the country, registering a negative PCR test and enjoying one comfortable night in a hotel or resort, guests are free to travel anywhere in the Kingdom! This is great news for international guests who have been longing to return to Thailand. Please click here to check out the latest information from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

To celebrate this milestone, Best Western has created the “Test & Go” package, offering seamless and stress-free one-night stays at a choice of five hotels and resorts in some of Thailand’s most desirable destinations. Starting from only THB 4,480 per person per night, guests can enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay in Bangkok, Pattaya or Phuket, including a transfer from the airport to the hotel, a professional RT-PCR test provided by a renowned hospital, and other benefits throughout the stay.

Guests can choose from the following participating properties:

Best Western Plus Wanda Grand Hotel is a striking, state-of-the-art hotel in the up-and-coming area of North Bangkok. Strategically located close to a range of key business, leisure and MICE destinations, this is the perfect choice for all types of traveler. With 183 sleek, contemporary rooms, ranging from superior rooms to two-bedroom suites, this hotel is ideal for both short- and extended-stay guests.

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Sukhumvit 2 is a modern midscale hotel conveniently located in the beating heart of downtown Bangkok. Perfectly positioned in the city’s main business and entertainment district, surrounded by shopping malls, restaurants and bars, SureStay Plus Sukhumvit 2 features 85 comfortable, contemporary rooms and a spectacular rooftop pool and lounge.

Vīb Best Western Sanam Pao Bangkok is a cutting-edge midscale hotel in one of the Thai capital’s trendiest districts. With a selection of stylish rooms, all equipped with free Wi-Fi and positioned close to many local attractions, this modern midscale hotel is well-connected in every sense. The BTS skytrain is right on the hotel’s doorstep, putting the whole of this vibrant city within easy reach.

Best Western Premier Bayphere Pattaya is a brand-new beachfront hotel in Jomtien, the serene seaside destination not far from downtown Pattaya. Located just a short drive from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, this absolute beachfront hotel features 174 rooms and an array of facilities including an infinity pool with jacuzzis and cabanas, a rooftop water garden, gym, and children’s playground.

Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa is an impressive upscale resort located directly on the shores of the Andaman Sea. Nestled on the white sands of Bangtao Bay, this expansive resort features a wealth of facilities for families and couples seeking a seaside escape.

Best Western Patong Beach offers stylish and affordable accommodation in the heart of Phuket. The gorgeous white sand of Patong Beach is a leisurely 10-minute stroll away while Jungceylon Shopping Centre and the colorful nightlife of Bangla Road are even closer. The contemporary rooms are elegantly furnished and feature flatscreen televisions, refreshing rain showers and private balconies.

Best Western Phuket Ocean Resort is nestled in a lush hillside, amid coconut groves overlooking Karon Beach and the Andaman Sea. The bright rooms feature private balconies with views of the gardens or ocean, while a dedicated pathway leads guests directly to the sandy bay. When they are not relaxing on the beach, travelers can take a dip in the outdoor pools, work out in the fitness center or unwind in the spa.

Tawaravadee Resort, BW Signature Collection is an elegant low-rise resort nestled in Thailand’s verdant countryside, approximately 160 kilometers east of Bangkok and the Suvarnabhumi Airport. Inspired by the ancient Dvaravati Culture that thrived in the area between the 6th and 11th centuries, this rural retreat blends modern amenities with classical decor, all set amongst lush greenery, lotus ponds and tropical gardens

Wherever you choose to travel, Best Western ensures the highest standards of health and hygiene with our “We Care CleanSM” program, which was developped based on expert advice from governmental agencies and independent bodies. This comprehensive program addresses every aspect of the in-stay experience, from guest room and common area cleanliness to contactless procedures and more, while maintaining our industry-leading guest service.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IATA: Travel Restrictions Had Little or No Impact on Spread of Omicron

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IATA: Travel Restrictions Had Little or No Impact on Spread of Omicron

Brussels, Belgium, February 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / ACI Europe (Airports Council International) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) urged European Governments to lift all travel restrictions for fully vaccinated/recovered individuals holding a valid Covid Certificate – as advised by the new regime for travel within the EU which comes into force today.

This new regime, set out by an EU Council Recommendation adopted on 25 January, is based on the health status of travellers, rather than the epidemiological situation of their country or area of origin.

Independent research (see link in notes below) conducted in Finland and Italy provides insight into developing a Europe-wide policy for removing restrictions. The research made public today confirms the validity of the traveler-centric approach, highlighting the inefficiency of recent travel restrictions imposed by European countries in mitigating the risks to public health and society posed by COVID-19.

New analysis produced by Oxera and Edge Health reveals that pre-departure testing requirements are likely to be ineffective at stopping or even limiting the spread of the Omicron variant. The analysis of testing restrictions imposed by Italy and Finland on 16 December and 28 December 2021 respectively on all incoming travellers made no distinguishable difference to transmission of Omicron cases in those countries. Conversely, the impact of these restrictions, and in particular the limitations to the free movement of people, resulted in significant and unnecessary economic hardship – not just for the travel and tourism sectors and their workforce, but for the whole European economy.

Crucially, the report also shows that:

– Maintaining pre-departure testing requirements for vaccinated/recovered travellers further will have no impact whatsoever on the future spread of the Omicron variant in Italy and Finland.
– Imposing these restrictions earlier – i.e. on the very day the Omicron variant was identified as an issue by the WHO – would not have stopped its spread nor significantly limited it in Italy and Finland. This is inherent to the fact that variants circulate well ahead of the time by which they are identified, which is the reason why both the WHO and ECDC generally consider travel restrictions to be ineffective.

The fact that both countries are now lifting their pre-departure testing requirements is very welcome. However, concerns remain that:

– Both countries could have lifted them much earlier or altogether avoided imposing them in the first place – lessons must be learned to avoid repeated economic damage with no attendant public health benefit.
– While Finland has lifted restrictions for all incoming vaccinated/recovered travelers, Italy has done so only for incoming travelers from within the EU/EEA. This now needs to extend to all incoming travelers, as there is no health safety benefit in delaying this step any longer.

With the coming into force today of the new regime for intra-EU/EEA travel, and in light of the robust data now made public, ACI EUROPE and IATA urge those countries which continue to deviate from the common EU framework to rapidly align with it. Specifically, we call upon the Governments of Austria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Lithuania and Malta to address this issue as a matter of urgency and abandon unnecessary and damaging restrictions.

In addition, there are no compelling reasons why vaccinated/recovered travellers should be subjected to a different regime whether they travel within the EU/EEA or come from other countries. It is now urgent that the EU Council aligns its outdated Recommendation for travel into the EU (from third countries) with the new regime for intra-EU/EEA travel that comes into force today.

“The new regime for intra-EU/EEA travel is right to focus on a ‘person-based approach’ and to recognise that both vaccinated and recovered travellers should not be subjected to any restriction. But having common EU regimes has so far not prevented States from going their own way. This must stop. We now have further proof – travel restrictions do have a significant effect – but it’s not on public health, it’s on economic stability and livelihoods. In short: they are causing more harm than good,” said Olivier Jankovec, ACI EUROPE Director General.

“The research is clear that the inevitable delay in identifying new variants means that transmission already occurs by the time travel restrictions are imposed. It’s the classic case of closing the stable door after the horse has bolted. Keeping testing in place for vaccinated passengers therefore seems completely ineffective from the health point of view, but damages passenger confidence and national economies. This latest research should give governments confidence to implement the EU recommendation in full, enabling Europe to get moving again,” said Conrad Clifford, IATA Deputy Director General.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Move Towards a More Energetic Lifestyle at RAKxa

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Move Towards a More Energetic Lifestyle at RAKxa

Bang Krachao, Thailand, February 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As working from home continues into 2022, there will be ample time spent inside again. People have developed increased postural pains and issues that arise from lack of mobility during the pandemic – to help overcome these issues, RAKxa, the fully integrative wellness and medical retreat has launched a bespoke Mobilisation Package to inspire and welcome guests for post COVID-19 breaks. The package focuses on getting people moving again – addressing ‘tech neck’, bad posture and pains. The package is ideal for those seeking a new lease of life and to improve not only their physical health, but their mental health too in 2022 and beyond.

RAKxa is located in Bangkok’s ‘Green Lung’, a protected jungle-clad island on the Chao Phraya River. The new and innovative Mobilisation package from RAKxa promotes rehabilitation, recovery, and performance enhancement. Each personalised programme is based on the latest in exercise and sports science, using physical therapy, performance recovery and enhancement technologies to help achieve health and fitness goals as well as to relieve the chronic pains such as ‘tech neck’ which has increased with gym closures and more time spent at home.

Please see further details on the Mobilisation package below and additional extras for the perfect personalised five-night, seven-night, or 10-night programme to alleviate individual aches and pains and help with well mental wellbeing:

Mobilisation Retreat Programmes
Offering a combination of medical and holistic treatments along with sessions in the Medical Gym, the mobilisation package is especially beneficial for those with moderate mobility or posture issues, such as daily repetitive use of muscles, osteoporosis, or joint pain. It’s also suitable for those seeking post-operative rehabilitation. A team of health and wellness advisors will prescribe a customised programme, assisted by a medical gym team that will help identify the root cause of guest’s mobility issues and appoint a regime targeted at musculoskeletal restoration.

Standard Programme Offerings:
– Health and wellness consultation
– Accommodation as per selection
– Round-trip airport limousine transfer
– Three wellness cuisine meals or detox meals per person and per night of stay
– Complimentary healthy drinks, herbal tea and fresh seasonal fruits in villa
– Complimentary general physical examination
– Complimentary daily fitness and leisure activities
– Complimentary use of hydrotherapy area, including vitality pool, steam, herbal steam, sauna, chill shower and cold plunge pool
– Medical assessments
– Specific treatments as listed in the programme such as but not limited to:
– Physiotherapy, cryo sauna sessions, body light therapy, infrared sauna sessions, hyperbaric chamber sessions, Thai massages, healing massages acupuncture, yoga and pilates.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WILL THE TIGER CATCH COVID BY THE TAIL?

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The traditional prayers for good fortune took on greater meaning this year as people around Asia on Tuesday ushered in the Lunar New Year – the third since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak – amid concerns over the coronavirus and virulent omicron variant, even as increasing vaccination rates raised hopes that the Year of the Tiger might bring life back closer to normal.

The Lunar New Year is the most important annual holiday in China and fell on Feb. 1. Each year is named after one of 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac in a repeating cycle. The Year of the Tiger follows the Year of the Ox.

Celebrations across Asia this year were again more subdued than usual, with people taking strict health and safety precautions, and some traditional festivities either reduced in size or cancelled.

In the Japanese capital, the Tokyo Tower was illuminated in red with a display to celebrate the diplomatic relationship between Japan and China, and the Beijing Winter Olympics.

In Cambodia, ethnic Chinese people performed a traditional dragon dance in Phnom Penh, while people prayed for good fortune at the Tai Hong Kong Shrine in Bangkok, Thailand.

In Hong Kong, which saw a surge in cases in January, people wore surgical masks as they shopped for red and tiger-themed holiday items. The city has closed schools because of the outbreaks and required restaurants to close at 6 p.m., forcing many to dine at home for traditional New Year’s Eve family dinners.

With the Year of the Tiger, many are hoping the traditional powers attributed to the animal will help put the country on a path out of the pandemic, said Chen Lianshan, a Beijing university expert on Chinese folklore.

“The tiger is a protection against evil spirits and it can defeat demons and ghosts of all kinds, and the Chinese believe that the plague is one kind of an evil spirit,” he said.

Elsewhere in Asia, there were signs that celebrations were subdued, though not quite as much as they were last year. Despite ongoing pandemic restrictions, most people are now vaccinated with at least two shots in many of the region’s countries.

In the old quarter of Hanoi, people flocked on the weekend to the traditional market to get decorations and flowers for the festival, known as Tet in Vietnam. Still, the country has cancelled Tet fireworks and other large events to minimize risks this year.

In Thailand, where 69% of people are fully vaccinated, Bangkok decided not to hold traditional Lunar New Year celebrations in Chinatown for the second year in a row, but was going ahead with lighting seasonal lanterns on the district’s main street.

In Singapore, Lunar New Year celebrations are more subdued due to coronavirus restrictions that allow residents to receive only five unique visitors a day, and preferably only one visit daily. The rules are likely to get in the way of the tradition of visiting relatives during the holiday.

Business was brisk at a flower market in the Taiwanese capital of Taipei on Monday as people made last minute purchases. Some 73% of Taiwanese are fully vaccinated.

Empowered by an 85% vaccination rate more Chinese have been travelling domestically this year despite government warnings, and many people prepared to celebrate by buying red lanterns and other decorations for their homes, and food to mark the beginning of a new year.

Still, 63-year-old retiree Huang Ping lamented as he shopped at a Beijing flower market that the new year’s “atmosphere has faded” with the closure of temples and seasonal fairs to prevent large crowds. He said he hoped for better times soon.

Some 260 million people travelled in China in the first 10 days of the holiday rush starting Jan. 17 – fewer than before the pandemic but up 46% over last year. Overall, the government forecasts 1.2 billion trips during the holiday season, up 36% from a year ago.

This year the celebrations coincide with the Beijing Winter Olympics, which open near the end of the weeklong holiday. The Chinese capital has been tightening controls to contain coronavirus outbreaks ahead of the sporting event.

The Games are being held inside sealed-off “bubbles,” and organizers have announced that no tickets will be sold to the general public and only selected spectators will be allowed.

“I’ll watch the games with my kid,” said Wang Zhuo, a retail manager from Beijing, “but of course on TV!”

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA and Vynn Capital Share How Technology Can Enable Travel Recovery

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PATA and Vynn Capital Share How Technology Can Enable Travel Recovery - TRAVELINDEXKuala Lumpur, Malaysia, February 1, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The travel and tourism industry can accelerate travel recovery and become more resilient by adopting technology solutions according to a new report released today by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and Vynn Capital, a Southeast Asia based venture capital firm.

The report, The Hard Reboot: Technology Powers Mobility, offers insightful analysis on the effects of health crises on the travel and tourism industry, and the potential to enable and strengthen the industry with technological transformation, providing actionable information for governments and companies on how to accelerate digital information of the industry.

“To expedite the recovery of the global travel and tourism industry, there is an urgent need to adopt new strategies and solutions to ensure the health and safety of travellers, said PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera. “At the local, regional, and global levels, travel organisations recognise the importance of integrating technology to access robust, transparent, and actionable data for better coordination. Also, as destinations reopen and international travel resumes, a host of new questions are emerging about how to build sustainability within the travel and tourism industry while minimising risks.”

The novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, has altered our daily life significantly by having an impact on social interactions, work dynamics, and digital use. The travel and tourism industry has not been immune to the effects of the pandemic. Indeed, curfews and travel restrictions to contain the spread of the virus were introduced in many countries, which led to a large-scale decline in travel across the world from early 2020 onwards. The global travel & tourism industry’s contribution to GDP plunged by US$4.5 trillion year-over-year in 2020, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Many businesses were forced to close due to inactivity under imposed anti-pandemic measures, while other businesses that remained opened only recorded limited activity.

The crisis has crystalized the importance of digital transformation of the travel and tourism industry. Companies across all sectors, including airlines, hotels, tours and activities, and ground transportation, have committed to the adoption of digital tools to enhance health and safety protocols and increase the sustainability of their operations. Digital adoption is no longer an additional feature but an essential component of travel.

In this report, PATA and Vynn Capital explore past pandemics’ impacts, examine potential losses of future pandemics due to the lack of a coordinated technological approach, and, most importantly, highlight noteworthy technology solutions for travel recovery, propose the framework of seamless travel journey enabled by technology, and provide adjusted Travel Tourism Index (TTCI) as a benchmark for the creation of competitive travel environment to enable mobility.

Victor Chua, Founding and Managing Partner of Vynn Capital, stated, “The travel and tourism industry has been tremendously impacted by COVID-19 pandemic. Only over a few days, international travel halted in 2020 and remained below pre-pandemic levels 18 months later. However, we have witnessed businesses and travel destinations coming together to find technology solutions to accelerate the recovery of travel and build resilience. As a result, decisions related to digital transformation are not only relevant now but also more urgent. As we reflect on the recent developments in the travel and tourism industry, we recognize the importance of the acceleration of technological transformations in the travel and tourism industry along with government support for the creation of a competitive technology-enabled environment to ensure sustainable recovery of travel.”

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its more than 650 member organisations, including 82 government, state and city tourism bodies, 14 international airlines and airports, 71 hospitality organisations and 75 educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has official offices or representation in Beijing and London.

About Vynn Capital
Vynn Capital is an early stage venture capital firm founded with the objective of bridging the gap between traditional industries and the new economies through the development of technology. Key industries of focus include Travel Mobility, Supply Chain and adjacent sectors. The team is made up of professionals with experience across early-stage investment to late stage financing, with experience in business operations. The investment philosophy revolves around the creation of synergistic value between partners and companies supported by Vynn. Beyond investing, Vynn Capital assists its investors or Limited Partners in understanding new industries and markets with its localized team and network across the major cities of Southeast Asia. Vynn Capital is currently active in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Myanmar.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

FCC Angkor Welcomes Travellers Back to Siem Reap Cambodia

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FCC Angkor Welcomes Travellers Back to Siem Reap Cambodia - TRAVELINDEXSiem Reap, Cambodia, February 1, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As Cambodia reopens, quarantine-free, to fully vaccinated international tourists, FCC Angkor by Avani,, a heritage hotel situated in the heart of the old French Quarter in Siem Reap, welcomes holidaymakers back with a three-night reopening package. The package features a combination of a stay with stories to tell, guided tours of Angkor’s heritage sites and gourmet dining.

Often described as an urban jungle thanks to its mix of heritage design, contemporary features and lush tropical nature, FCC Angkor by Avani offers a serene place to retreat to after a day exploring ancient ruins, shopping for handicrafts and meeting local makers and artists. In addition to providing accommodation for two, the Reopening Package includes a full-day tuk-tuk tour of the temples of Angkor, a blessing ritual with Buddhist monks and a choice of lunch or dinner for two at the resort.

On property, guests can cool down in a shaded swimming pool dine on authentic Khmer, Asian and fusion cuisines overlooking the herbal garden at The Mansion. Or travellers can meet fellow storytellers at Scribe Bar, a popular social spot known for serving highly imaginative beverages in a tropical setting. Visaya Spa provides a serene escape with aromatic treatments based on therapeutic ancient Khmer traditions.

The package starts from USD 129++ per night and includes:
– A minimum of three-night accommodation at FCC Angkor by Avani with breakfast and airport transfers for two;
– One full-day Angkor temple tour including tuk-tuk transportation;
– Monk blessing ceremony;
– Choice of lunch or dinner for two at The Mansion;
– One 60-minute spa treatment for two persons at Visaya Spa.

Travellers to Cambodia are required to present proof they have been fully vaccinated, travel insurance and a pre-booked hotel confirmation at FCC Angkor by Avani. For more information about travelling to Cambodia, please visit this link.

About FCC Angkor by Avani
One of the most illustrious hotels in Siem Reap, FCC Angkor by Avani, is located in the heart of the former French colonial quarter. The original riverside mansion has been renovated in neo-colonial style, with contemporary local touches including artisanal textiles and apsara sculptures. Eighty rooms and suites look out onto a central courtyard, where centuries-old banyan trees shade a saltwater swimming pool. Sourcing all the ingredients locally, the Mansion restaurant serves French cuisine and tapas, while Visaya Spa draws on Khmer wellness traditions to offer a full range of rejuvenating massages, body treatments and facials. Archaeological treasures of Angkor are 15 minutes away by car and Siem Reap International Airport is just a short 20-minute drive from the resort.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Reacts to Removal of UK COVID-19 Tests

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WTTC Reacts to Removal of UK COVID-19 Tests - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, February 1, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said: “WTTC welcomes the government’s decision to scrap testing for those who are fully vaccinated travelling to England.

“There is no longer any need for testing, and we urge Ministers across the UK and countries around the world, to follow England’s lead and allow the fully vaccinated to travel freely.

“After a gruelling 18 months for the UK Travel & Tourism sector, this will provide a massive boost to businesses up and down the country.

“We hope it will also see the end of the unnecessary passenger locator forms.”

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SHINING A LIGHT ON NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES

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One hundred landmarks in 32 countries – including Niagara Falls and the CN Tower in Canada – lit up in unity to mark the third annual World Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) Day on Jan. 30. World NTD Day supports the goal of the World Health Organization to eliminate at least one NTD from 100 endemic countries by 2030.

Originally announced in Abu Dhabi in 2019, the 100 ‘light ups’ sought to shine a light on NTDs, a group of communicable diseases that are considered preventable and treatable, yet continue to affect more than 1.7 billion people worldwide, including 1 billion children.

There are 20 NTDs that cause immeasurable suffering – they debilitate, disfigure and can be fatal, at the same time creating cycles of poverty and costing developing nations billions of dollars every year.

To that end, World NTD Day has become a global movement that aims to galvanize the global health community and engage the public in the urgent effort to end NTDs.

“Building on the success of the London Declaration on NTDs, and recognizing the changing global landscape, we are using World NTD Day 2022 as a catalyst for action,” announced Thoko Pooley, Executive Director of Uniting to Combat NTDs. “We are launching the ‘100% Committed’ campaign, a global movement to secure increased resources for neglected tropical diseases, and crucially to facilitate political leadership and ownership of NTD programs from affected countries, through endorsements and signatories behind the new Kigali Declaration on NTDs.”

CN Tower, photo – Jonathan Gazze

Through UAE-helmed diplomatic efforts to obtain official recognition of the day, World NTD Day was officially recognized by the WHO in May 2021 and the Crown Prince Court of Abu Dhabi continues to play a leading role in the mission.

“World NTD Day represents an important catalyst to translate awareness into action – it is not only crucial for the public to know more about these diseases, but also for donors, endemic countries and other stakeholders to collaborate to bring an end to NTDs in affected countries,” said Nassar Al Mubarak, Sr. Director at the Crown Prince Court of Abu Dhabi.

“Over the past few decades, incredible progress has been made towards ending NTDs; however, one in five people in the most vulnerable communities around the world are still affected by these preventable and treatable diseases,” he continued. “We are pleased to see the Day providing a platform for raising awareness through the new 100% Committed campaign and efforts such as the light-up activation. We hope that this movement continues to gain traction and spark new partnerships and commitments necessary to beat NTDs for good.”

This year “light-up” sites included The Bell Tower in Perth, Tokyo Tower, Great Wall of China, New Delhi Railway Station, Sheikh Zayed Bridge in Abu Dhabi, Expo 2020 Dubai, Kenyatta International Convention Centre, The Rome Colosseum, Jet d’ Eau, Niagara Falls, CN Tower, Jimmy Carter Presidential Library, and Christ the Redeemer.

A special focus was placed on notable landmarks in endemic countries, including Bangladesh, Brazil, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Liberia, Mexico, Niger, Nigeria, Philippines, Rwanda, South Sudan, and Sudan.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WK Holding and C3 to Establish International Joint Venture

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WK Holding and C3 to Establish International Joint Venture - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25RESTAURANTSRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, January 31, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Creating Culinary Communities (C3), the leading global food tech platform founded by visionary Sam Nazarian, joins WK Holding, the leading Saudi Arabia based investment House to announce Ian Toal as CEO of C3 Arabia. Ian Toal’s new post encompasses more than 30 years of leadership experience in global hospitality, international supply chain management and quick service restaurants.

The news of Ian Toal’s appointment follows the recent announcement of the partnership between C3 and WK Holding to establish C3 Arabia, an international joint venture to manage and operate full service culinary markets featuring award-winning chef-driven restaurants, digital kitchens and mobile delivery. Launched in 2019 by Sam Nazarian, Founder and CEO, C3 has pioneered the food tech space and is the fastest-growing food-tech platform today. C3 is re-imagining the food service industry by tapping into the power of exceptional culinary talent, digital brand IP, and bringing its portfolio of more than 40 culinary brands to established digital kitchens and mobile delivery with the next-gen Go by Citizens app.

Expanding into international markets, C3 Arabia is a joint venture funded by Smart Food Holding (SFH) , a division of WK Holding and C3 by sbe through its consortium of high-profile partners, including Layla Abuzaid, Tharawat Technology and Yasser Alobaidan. Abuzaid has embarked to assemble an operating team based in Riyadh, which CEO Ian Toal will now oversee, working to identify, mentor, and incubate local culinary talent and deliver best in-class execution across the C3 Arabia operating platform.

Commenting on the new appointment, C3’s Founder and CEO Sam Nazarian said, “This is an exciting time for C3 as we introduce our digital restaurant brands to Saudi Arabia. I am thrilled to have C3 Arabia’s CEO Ian Toal at the helm to ensure a success. His wealth of knowledge and experience are invaluable as we work to create renowned high-energy dining destinations for food and culture in the Middle East.”

Layla Abuzaid, Founder and CEO of WK Holding, said, “We’re thrilled to announce the appointment of Ian Toal as CEO of C3 Arabia. Ian’s robust track record serving as former CEO of Alfa Corporation and President of Alshaya Group fueled by his pioneering outlook will prove invaluable as we transform the food and beverage industries in the region. Ian’s regional expertise combined with the visionary leadership of our partner Sam Nazarian will generate an unprecedented platform to unlock local culinary talent, celebrate Saudi’s vibrant culture and usher in a dynamic, holistic lifestyle model that positions the Kingdom as a global hub and an epicenter of innovation in line with Vision 2030.”

Ms Abuzaid continued, ” We’re in a privileged position. We’re able to instigate truly transformative change and embed world-class operations because of the vision and ambition of our government. It takes unwavering resilience and an enduring commitment to the future of our country and its people to break through barriers, and today our country has this leadership.”

C3 Arabia’s CEO, Ian Toal, has a career that has spanned from the USA, Europe, and the Gulf Cooperation Council – the economic union that consists of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Toal has led more than 40 brands across 600 restaurants in 10 countries. These successes have led to a global understanding of what it takes to make international business successful, as well as achieving targets both financial and personal for investors.

Most recently, Ian Toal helmed the Riyadh-based Alfa Co. which operates 10 restaurant and digital kitchen brands globally and holds almost 100 brick and mortar locations. Alfa Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary by Al Fasaliah Group, one of the top Saudi corporations led by its president HRH Prince Mohammed Al Faisal. During his time with Alfa Co., Toal led the expansion of award-winning restaurants such as Steak House, Piatto, FireGrill, City Fresh Kitchen and Steak House Burgers.

Prior to his work with Alfa Co., Ian Toal served as the President of Alshaya Group based in Kuwait. During his time with Alshaya Group he managed the expansion of global brands such as The Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Changs, Texas Roadhouse, Shake Shack, Blaze Pizza, Raising Cane’s, Pizza Express, Katsuya, Spontini, Dean & Deluca, Ihop and Pinkberry. He was voted “World’s Best Restaurant Partner” by the Global Restaurant leadership conference in 2017 /18.

Commenting on his new post, Ian Toal said, “I am honored to be working with visionaries Sam Nazarian and Layla Abuzaid. The sky is the limit as we aim to bring C3’s world renowned talent and global brands to Saudi Arabia. I look forward to leading this charge and identifying, mentoring and incubating local culinary talent, working to brand and export Saudi hospitality culture to the world.”

C3 Arabia is set to introduce 40 international brands to the region including C3’s popular global brands including Umami Burger, Sam’s Crispy Chicken, Krispy Rice, Sa’Moto, Cicci di Carne, El Pollo Verde, Kumi, EllaMia, Plant Nation, 12 Caviar and more. For C3, no other restaurant group has amassed such an influential collective of globally renowned culinary talents. Across C3 portfolio brands, Chefs Masaharu Morimoto, Dario Cecchini, Katsuya Uechi, Dani Garcia, Michael Israel, Vincenzo Rossy and Romain Fornell have made haute cuisine accessible, cultivating a global community of fans.

C3 has sold more than 2.3 million meals during the last twelve months. As of February 2021, C3 has over 800 digital brand locations across the U.S. with an expansion pipeline to well over 1,000. To date, C3 has hired more than 3,500 employees across the U.S. with plans to hire another 5,000 employees domestically and internationally with offices in Miami, Los Angeles, New York, London, United Arab Emirates and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

About C3
C3 (Creating Culinary Communities) is re-imagining the food service industry at a time when change is needed most. Founded and led by visionary Sam Nazarian with minority investors Simon, a global leader in the ownership of premier shopping, dining, entertainment and mixed-use destinations, and Accor, the world-leading augmented hospitality group, C3 is simultaneously, systematically and broadly bringing together technology, underutilized retail, hotel and kitchen spaces and world-class culinary talent. C3’s array of culinary brands co-exist to disrupt the food & beverage industry by capitalizing on rapidly evolving customer preferences through C3 established shared kitchens, Citizens food halls and mobile delivery with the next-gen Citizens GO app set to launch in 2021. Current C3 brands include Umami Burger, Krispy Rice, Sam’s Crispy Chicken, EllaMia, In a Bun, The Other Side and Dani Garcia’s El Pollo Verde, with many other brands in the pipeline. As of March 2021, C3 operates 250 digital kitchens across the U.S. To learn more, visit c3sbe.com.

About WK Holding
Founded in 2017 by Layla Issa Abuzaid, who currently serves as CEO, WK Holding is a contemporary investment House that generates mutually beneficial long-term partnerships and innovative value-creating opportunities between Saudi Arabia and the rest of the world. Operating across five sectors, entertainment, food and beverage, trading, technology and lifestyle, WK Holdings invests in high quality differentiated assets through an entrepreneurial mindset and an institutional approach.

Today, the WK Holding portfolio includes RAFA/MFA Company, a joint venture between RAFA (Saudi Arabia) and MF Group (the most significant event production company in Russia), RUSSAD, a business hub between Saudi Arabia and Russia and the SAPEG PE FUND established to facilitate foreign investments in the Kingdom.

In 2021, WK Holding introduced Smart Food Holding as a subdivision dedicated to the funding, incubation and innovation of the most exciting brands operating within the food, beverage and lifestyle space. Smart Food Holding is the investment platform for C3 Arabia.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

AirAsia Group Changes Name to Capital A

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AirAsia Group Changes Name to Capital A - TRAVELINDEX - AIRLINEHUB.comKuala Lumpur, Malaysia, January 31, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / AirAsia Group Berhad has today announced a name change for the group holding company to become Capital A Berhad (Capital A or the Group). The name change reflects the Group’s new core business strategy as an investment holding company with a portfolio of synergistic travel and lifestyle businesses, which have rapidly transformed the AirAsia brand into much more than just an airline.

CEO of Capital A, Tony Fernandes said: “This is not just about unveiling a new logo. It’s a significant milestone that marks a new era for the Group. Today’s announcement reinforces we are not just an airline anymore.

“While the airline will always underpin the AirAsia brand, it has long been my firm intention, well before Covid hit, to leverage the strong data we have built up over 20 years and incorporate industry-leading new technologies to offer a broad range of products and services, over and above selling just airfares. The pandemic has allowed us to accelerate that strategy.

“Our brand has continuously evolved based on driving innovation and meeting ever changing consumer demand. The strategy behind the change of name is to introduce a new corporate identity that better reflects the Group’s core businesses today and its future undertakings, in tandem with our rapid transformation from an airline into a one-stop digital travel and lifestyle services group. We believe that the new company name will also further enhance the marketability of our products and boost the success of our Group for the long haul.

“Essentially Capital A is an investment company with a broad portfolio of businesses which all deliver the best value at the lowest cost, supported by strong data built up over two decades. We also have one of Asia’s leading brands to ride on, a strong people-first culture and an underlying promise of remaining committed to serving the underserved in all that we do. Just like what the airline has done from day one, all of our different lines of business will deliver the same strategy that is underscored by doing what we do best – making travel and everyday lifestyle services affordable, accessible and inclusive to all.

“We are now delivering more products and services under one umbrella than any other brand in Asean and with access to over 700 million people in the region, I foresee incredible growth opportunities for our brand across many different industries in all of our core markets.

“We have 16 products and services on our airasia Super App, providing not only the best value flight and travel deals but also everyday lifestyle needs, from food to retail and e-commerce, to same day delivery, ride hailing and much more. We are already one of the top three online travel agents (OTAs) in Asean and our super app is on track to become the leading lifestyle app in the region very soon.

“All of our portfolio businesses are well on the way to becoming industry leaders in their respective fields across Southeast Asia, including BigPay, our aircraft engineering division Asia Digital Engineering (ADE) and logistics venture Teleport.

“We already have over 50 million monthly unique visitors on our super app which has been recognised as a tech unicorn in under two years, our fintech business BigPay, has been given a significant injection of USD $100million from South Korea conglomerate SK Group and overall we have raised over RM2.5 billion to date through our fundraising strategy. Following strong consumer and investor support for our transformation strategy, we now set our sights on further capital raising initiatives for the airasia Super App, Teleport and ADE which will be announced in due course.”

On the airline, Tony commented: “While Capital A will be the new Group holding company name, one thing that isn’t changing is the AirAsia brand name for our airlines. It’s one of the strongest brands in Asia and provides a solid platform for all of our other products and services to leverage from each other.

“Even though the last two years have been the most difficult and disrupted years in the history of commercial aviation, I welcome the year ahead with much greater confidence. Domestic air travel has already started to rebound in our key markets. While there may be some delays for international flights to return to pre-Covid levels due to the Omicron variant, I believe this will be short-lived as many global health experts are also predicting, alongside accelerated vaccines and booster shots as well as the world gradually learning to live with Covid. I am hopeful borders will reopen gradually throughout 2022 and we will see a return to normal capacity for our international services by the middle to third quarter of this year.

“Over the past two years we have spent the downturn in flying building a solid foundation for a viable and successful future, which is not solely reliant on airfares alone. Capital A signals an exciting new era for our airlines and all of our other portfolio businesses within the Group as we embark on a significant new growth phase.

“Importantly, the best is yet to come. We have pivoted, we have transformed and we have a five year plan in place which will see non airline revenues contributing around 50 percent of overall Group revenue by 2026. Once the airlines return to pre-Covid levels in the near future all of our other lines of business will benefit significantly and will all soar to new heights in tandem with one another.”

By 2026 Capital A aims to achieve amongst others:
– Group airlines connecting over 1 billion people in Asean.
– The engineering division (ADE) becomes an industry leader for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services in Southeast Asia.
– airasia Super App to be the super app of choice in Asean.
– 10 million monthly active users for BigPay.
– 10% market share in Southeast Asia for Teleport, in the logistics and e-commerce industry.
– 5 million sign ups for edutech arm AirAsia Academy.
– Over 21 million monthly orders on airasia grocer.

The new holding company name, Capital A, is immediately effective following the successful registration of the name by the Companies Commision of Malaysia announced on January 3 and the subsequent formal approvals received yesterday.

The name change from AirAsia Group Berhad to Capital A Berhad will not have any effect on the Company’s ongoing operations. The AirAsia stock name on the main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad will change with immediate effect to reflect the new company name.

About Capital A – capitala.airasia.com
Capital A is an investment holding company with a portfolio of synergistic travel and lifestyle businesses that leverage data and technology to deliver the best value at the lowest cost, supported by high quality data and one of Asia’s leading brands that remains committed to serving the underserved.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News