Global Travel News

Dominican Republic President Joins UNWTO in Support of Women Entrepreneurs

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Dominican Republic President Joins UNWTO in Support of Women Entrepreneurs - TRAVELINDEXSanto Domingo, Dominican Republic, June 25, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Women entrepreneurs from across the tourism sector came together in Santo Domingo for a special workshop focused on financing, marketing, networking and innovation.

Forming part of UNWTO’s Centre Stage project and organized in partnership with the country’s Ministry of Tourism (MITUR), the one-day event saw around 200 female Dominican entrepreneurs share their experience and knowledge while also benefitting from expert insights into growing tourism businesses and making the sector a driver of gender equality and sustainable development.

Joining the entrepreneurs in a show of support, President of the Republic, Mr. Luis Abinader and the Minister of Tourism, Mr. David Collado, stressed the important role tourism is playing in the economic wellbeing of the country. The President singled out the opportunities being created in established tourism hubs like Punta Cana, as well as emerging destinations such as Pedregales.

As part of Centre Stage, MITUR has been working actively since November 2021 to implement policies that take into consideration the specific needs of women working in tourism. According to UNWTO research, women in tourism have been hit harder by the impacts of the pandemic than men working in the sector, emphasizing the need to incorporate a gender perspective into policymaking. The Centre Stage project is supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Development and Cooperation (BMZ), the Germany Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and UN Women.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dusit Hotels International Appoints New Chief Operating Officer

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Dusit Hotels International Appoints New Chief Operating Officer - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, June 24, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has appointed Mr Gilles Cretallaz as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective 10 June 2022. Replacing Mr Lim Boon Kwee, who retired from the position in May after almost nine years of service with the company, French national Mr Cretallaz brings to the role more than 30 years of experience leading luxury, renowned, and iconic hotels for the Accor group across Turkey, China, and Southeast Asia.

• For all your booking and lodging solutions worldwide book at HotelWorlds.com at best rates available.

Alongside driving brand evolution, he has a strong track record for formulating and implementing strategies to increase market share, guide sustainable development, introduce award-winning F&B concepts, and boost guest and customer satisfaction at properties under his care.

During his illustrious career, he has overseen pre-opening, rebranding, and operations for hotels under renowned Accor brands, such as Sofitel, Fairmont, and Raffles. This includes, amongst others, serving as Regional General Manager – Accor North Vietnam, and General Manager for the iconic, award-winning Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. He also conceptualised ‘So,’ Accor’s first playful luxury brand, and established the brand in Thailand as General Manager of the unique Sofitel So Bangkok.

Expanding his scope regionally, internationally, and across brand segments, he was appointed Director of Operations Sofitel Luxury Hotels – Thailand and Singapore, and later promoted to Vice President Operations Upscale and Luxury Segments for Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Korea, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, and the Maldives.
In his most recent role, he was Senior Vice President Operations – Southeast Asia, responsible for leading Accor’s Bangkok Office and overseeing the operations of 150 highly-rated and prestigious hotels – including nine distinct brands – across Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

In his new role for Dusit International, Mr Cretallaz will be responsible for overseeing the financial and operational responsibilities of Dusit’s hotel business unit, including all Dusit Hotels and Resorts, ASAI Hotels, Elite Havens, White Label properties, and condominiums/residences under Property Management, at both corporate and property levels.

“I am honoured and delighted to join the talented team at Dusit International and contribute to the company’s vision to uniquely deliver Thai-inspired, gracious hospitality to the world,” said Mr Cretallaz.

“Drawing on my extensive experience in overseeing hotel operations, brand evolution, property development, and sales and marketing, I very much look forward to helping drive sustainable expansion of our operations in existing and emerging markets, establishing new group-wide synergies to maximise growth potential, and introducing new products, services, and experiences to enrich the guest and customer experience and deliver enduring value for all stakeholders.”

Fluent in French and English, Mr Cretallaz holds an Advanced Certificate in Hotel Management from the Hotel Management School of Lausanne, Switzerland; a BTS Diploma from the Hotel Management School of Toulouse, France; and a Baccalauréat Technologique Diploma from the Hotel Management School of Thonon-Les-Bains, France.

During his time at Accor, Mr Cretallaz was honoured to be nominated for, and receive, numerous awards for his work. Among them: the ‘Bernache Imagine’ Award – the highest accolade within Accor – and the ‘Asian Businessman Award,’ from the ASEAN Capitals Business Forum.

• For all your booking and lodging solutions worldwide book at HotelWorlds.com at best rates available.

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: hotels and resorts, hospitality education, food, property development, and hospitality-related services.

The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of six brands (Dusit Thani, Dusit Devarana, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 16 countries worldwide. The group also operates culinary schools and hospitality colleges in Thailand, plus catering companies for the education sector in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Report Analyses Critical Factors for Hotel Investment Post Pandemic

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WTTC Report Analyses Critical Factors for Hotel Investment Post Pandemic - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXSan Juan, Puerto Rico, June 24, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) published ‘Critical Factors to Attract Hotel Investment’, a new report highlighting the importance of attracting capital investment to enable the Travel & Tourism sector’s full growth potential post COVID-19, following a 25% drop in 2020.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

The report, launched today at the Sustainability and Investment Summit taking place in San Juan, Puerto Rico, looks at key enabling factors for hotel investment, and success stories of destinations that have employed such factors and shown strong growth in investment.

In 2020, when international travel came to an almost standstill, the Travel & Tourism sector saw 62 million job losses and its GDP contribution halved, representing a painful loss of nearly USD 4.9 trillion.

According to the paper, capital investment in the sector also fell substantially during the height of the pandemic, from nearly USD 1.1 trillion in 2019, to only USD 805 billion in 2020, representing an almost 25% drop.

Investment in the sector continued to decline last year with a further 6.9% decline to USD 750 billion.

The report does however provide grounds for optimism as it forecast a strong growth in Travel & Tourism investment over the next decade. However, the global tourism body warns that to achieve this, governments around the world must create a favourable enabling environment.

In addition to political stability and liquidity, considered essential for investment, a clear, open, and consistent government action and support, favourable tax incentives, and safety and security, amongst others, remain prerequisites to attract hotel investments.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Hotel investment is absolutely key for the recovery and growth of the Travel & Tourism sector. Destinations must have a clear commitment and take a holistic approach to become resilient and competitive.

“As we recover from the pandemic and we build back better, investments not only need to benefit destinations economically, but more importantly, socially and environmentally.”

According to the innovative report, the key enabling factors for hotel investment include governance and rule of law, a key enabler for investors, as it determines how easily and successfully a business operates, physical infrastructure, air and ground connectivity, and workforce.

The report analysed a number of popular destinations which benefitted from implementing these elements. For instance, the Netherlands provides an enabling environment for foreign investment with less restrictive regulations and strict laws to penalise corruption.

Physical infrastructure, air and ground connectivity is also crucial to investment as well-connected hubs support wider regional development and provide access to lesser-known destinations that offer tourism opportunities.

South Korea, for example, ranks as one of the best-connected countries in the world. The announcement of the country as the 2018 Winter Olympics host, incentivised investment in transport infrastructure, which resulted in hotel room supply soaring by almost 15%, outstripping the healthy overall Travel & Tourism capital investment growth of 8.7% in 2017.

The paper also highlights the importance of re-skilling and up-skilling the workforce. Leading the way in this area is Portugal, which focussed on strategies to help reskill the sector, such as the Tourism Training Talent (TTT) programme, committed to improving the quality of tourism’s training services.

Some additional factors and success stories in the report include liquidity in Maldives, government aid in Saudi Arabia, taxation in Colombia, destination planning and sustainability in Singapore and Rwanda, service culture in the Philippines, and travel facilitation in Aruba.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

With contributions from STR, KSL Capital Partners, and JLL, the report, draws from experience to inspire both the public and private sector, as they develop and implement Travel & Tourism investment policies that will boost the long-term recovery of the sector.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Japanese Fine Dining Restaurant Kyo-Tei Celebrates First Anniversary

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Japanese Fine Dining Restaurant Kyo-Tei Celebrates First Anniversary - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, June 23, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Aquarius International celebrates the first anniversary of Kyo-Tei, a Japanese fine dining restaurant in Thong Lor. A new seasonal menu “Early Summer in Kyoto Kamogawa” is introduced to mark the occasion. Kyo-Tei opened its doors in June 2021, delighting guests with its original, eye-catching cuisine. The restaurant presents a contemporary atmosphere that immerses visitors in natural elements of wood and stone. There is a backyard ‘Ryokan’, a traditional Japanese inn that invites diners to experience authentic Kaiseki cuisine.

The name Kyo-Tei comes from the word “Kyo” 京 from Kyoto, Japan’s imperial capital where Kaiseki cuisine was created in the 9th century, and “Tei” 亭 which represents a culinary destination.

Kyo-Tei is located on Sukhumvit Soi 38 in Bangkok’s trendy Thong Lor district. The restaurant is divided into a series of distinct areas, including the Sushi Counter where guests can watch the chefs expertly crafting pieces of sushi and sashimi, alongside a bar where talented mixologists shake and stir Asian-inspired cocktails. On the upper level, the Exquisite Bar houses premium whiskies and sakes. A private Kaiseki Omakase Room with only eight seats is ideal for special occasions. An intimate Teppanyaki Room features only six seats surrounding a spectacular teppanyaki grill.

Led by Chef Nishioka Masaki, a Japanese culinary master with three decades of experience, this elegant destination showcases elevated kaiseki, teppanyaki and omakase cuisine under one roof. Blending traditional and modern techniques, it optimises fresh ingredients that change with the seasons to deliver truly extraordinary epicurean journeys.

For the 1st year anniversary, the chef unveils his new seasonal menu, “Early Summer in Kyoto Kamogawa”, which focuses on the finest produce from the land and sea, highlighting Motobu Wagyu A5 beef from Okinawa, premium scampi from New Zealand, and sublime Japanese seafood such as sea urchin, abalone and blue crab. Treated with exceptional care and precision, these exquisite ingredients are used to craft a selection of delicacies that will pay homage to Kyoto.

“We are delighted to invite diners to celebrate the first anniversary of Kyo-Tei. Since opening last year, we are fast becoming one of Bangkok’s most exciting places to dine. The local community has really embraced our concept, so we want to thank them for their support by offering the opportunity to come together with us and discover our new menu. As the world starts to open up again, we look forward to welcoming even more local and international diners to Kyo-Tei in 2022, and for many years to come,” said Edward Chi, Founder of Aquarius International.

Kyo-Tei is the flagship of AQ Gourmet & Dine, the F&B arm of Aquarius International,owned by Norcal Thailand, a division of Hong Kong-based Norcal Venture Capital Group Limited (NVC), which has global assets in excess of US$1 billion. The company portfolio encompasses five-star resorts, residences, yacht charters, fine-dining and membership services, all woven together by AQBooking.com, its premium, personalized booking platform.

AQBooking .com is an exclusive club that enables its members to explore a curated A-list of high-quality tourism brands, from the finest hotels and resorts to world-class dining, yacht charters, premium flights and more. Every aspect of their journey will be supported by bespoke concierge services and club benefits, all available at the touch of a button.

Make a reservation at Kyo-Tei restaurant, call 063 306 3636. Open from Sunday-Wednesday from 11:00am – 9:00pm and Friday-Saturday from 11:00am – 10:00pm (Lunch at 11:00 am – 2:30pm / Dinner from 5:30 pm).

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO to Host First Global Youth Tourism Summit

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UNWTO to Host First Global Youth Tourism Summit - TRAVELINDEXSorrento, Italy, June 23, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The first UNWTO Global Youth Tourism Summit will bring more than 130 young people from 60 countries to Sorrento, Italy, next week, giving them a unique platform to play a leading role in the future of the sector.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

The event, first of its kind, is organized by UNWTO and hosted in Italy in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and the National Tourism Agency (ENIT). It will unite global youth aged between 12 and 18 with leaders from across the sector, including politicians and key figures from the worlds of sport, gastronomy, entertainment and innovation. The Summit has received the medal of the President of the Republic of Italy and patronage of the Department of Youth Policies and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “The Global Youth Tourism will celebrate and empower the next generation of tourism leaders. It will help build a lasting legacy by providing young people with the skills and knowledge they need to transform tourism not only in their communities but everywhere”.

Due to take place from 27 June to 3 July, the Summit will feature six Masterclasses, alongside two evening talks, as well as a simulation of the UNWTO General Assembly and interactive sessions where participants will be able to engage directly with UN and with Ministers of Tourism and other high level officials from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Croatia, Germany, Georgia, Albania, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Maldives, Spain, Montenegro, Sao Tome & Principe, Yemen and many other UNWTO Member States.

It will help build a lasting legacy by providing young people with the skills and knowledge they need to transform tourism not only in their communities but everywhere

The Italian Minister of Tourism, Massimo Garavaglia, adds: “The Italian government is proud to host the first World Youth Tourism Congress in Sorrento. We are confident that ideas and proposals will emerge that can advise governments on how to improve the global tourism offer and make it closer to the needs of new tourists”.

Alessandra Priante, UNWTO Director for Europe, added: “Tourism gives opportunities to young people. But young people give tourism the opportunity to become stronger and more resilient. We are extremely proud of the first generation of GYTS-ers, who are already showing their promise and commitment to transform tourism, starting from their local communities”.

Roberta Garibaldi, CEO of ENIT, pointed out: “The synergy that can be created in the exchange among the under-19 generation and organizations on a level playing field cannot be anything but good for tourism, to look to the future with new eyes and forward-thinking ideas. We are even more excited than the young people we will be meeting”.

Sustainability, rural development, gastronomy and innovation

The Summit will focus on some of the key challenges and opportunities facing global tourism right now, with an emphasis on the sector’s role in achieving the UN 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This will include an in-depth look at biodiversity, to be organized in collaboration with Marevivo and the MSC Foundation. Participants will take an excursion to the Marine Protected Area of Punta Campanella, to see first-hand how tourism is helping protect coastal areas and biodiversity. This will be complemented by a deeper study of the techniques of the sea and navigation, with the MSC Foundation providing an overview of the important role of the cruise industry for local and national economies.

Reflecting UNWTO’s wider focus on innovation and the digital transformation of tourism, the Summit will also feature a special session focused on online security, organized in collaboration with fellow UN agency the ITU (International Telecommunication Union), as well as a talk on virtual tourism and the Metaverse, organized in partnership with Meta. Alongside this, the World Food Forum (facilitated by the UN’s agricultural organization, FAO) will host a debate on solutions to reduce food waste in tourism.

Among the international speakers due to take part in the GYTS are UN Youth Envoy Jayathma Wickramanayake, as well as UNWTO Ambassadors of Responsible Tourism Valeria Mazza, Didier Drogba, Gino Sorbillo, Pilar Rodriguez. Representing the private sector will be leading figures from Mastercard and the Hilton Group, sponsors of the event. Addressing participants virtually will be His Holiness Pope Francis, Sophia Loren, Eliza Jane Reid (First Lady of Iceland and UNWTO Ambassador), Diego Simeone, Fernando Hierro, the FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu, the President of the United Nations General Assembly, Abdulla Shahid and European Commissioner, Mariya Gabriel responsible for youth. Also joining virtually will be UNWTO Ambassador and entrepreneur Pansy Ho, who will share her personal experience in the world of travel and tourism and to discuss why innovation is a key part of the sustainable future of tourism.

Young people showing promise

Remarking the role of GYTS as a UNWTO permanent platform for youth and tourism, in the build-up to Sorrento, the participating youth were prepared through webinars that allowed them to explore, together with global influencers and leading experts, the principles of sustainability, tourism and multilateralism.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

UNWTO expresses its deepest appreciation to the numerous sponsors and partners who make the event possible: Comune di Sorrento, Regione Campania, Mastercard, Qatar Foundation, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Global Tourism Economy Research Centre, Aeroporti di Roma, Bella Vista Institute of Higher Education, Azerbaijan Tourism Board PLE, AirEuropa, and Ferrero.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Signs Landmark Agreement With Vinpearl to Add Eight Hotels in Vietnam

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Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection

Marriott International, Inc. today announced a strategic agreement with Vinpearl, Vietnam’s largest hospitality and leisure chain, to convert and develop 2,200 rooms across eight hotels in Vietnam – significantly expanding its portfolio of world-class hotels and resorts in the country. This collaboration expects to see the debut of the Autograph Collection Hotels brand in the country, while other planned openings span the following brands: Marriott Hotels, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, and Four Points by Sheraton.

“We are thrilled to be working with Vinpearl to accelerate our growth in Vietnam,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China), Marriott International. “With the country’s solid foundation for a resilient economy, and continuous growth of its infrastructure especially in the tourism sector, we are confident this collaboration will enable us to better cater to our guests’ needs.”

Of the eight hotels, six are conversions that are expected to be part of Marriott’s system later this year.

Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection is expected to serve as Vietnam’s first Autograph Collection hotel. The lifestyle hotel will join a diverse and dynamic collection of over 260 independent hotels around the globe hand-selected for their inherent craft and distinct perspective on design and hospitality. Currently known as Vinpearl Luxury Landmark 81, the hotel is set high up in a gleaming 461-meter tower on the banks of the Saigon River and is anticipated to feature 223 rooms and suites, three food and beverage outlets, 12 function spaces, a business center, spa, outdoor pool, and fitness center.

Danang Marriott Resort & Spa is expected to fly the Marriott Hotels brand flag following the rebranding of Vinpearl Luxury Danang. Nestled on Non Nuoc Beach, close to downtown Danang, the retreat is anticipated to feature 200 rooms and suites, 39 villas with a modern, residential design, and locally-inspired accents, catering to providing guests with enriching experiences alongside its signature spaces and heartfelt service. Design plans call for five different food and beverage outlets, eight event spaces, an infinity pool, a spa, kids club, tennis court and a wealth of water sports, including a dive center.

Sheraton Long Beach Phu Quoc Resort is situated on the west coast of Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, and is a rapidly emerging tourism hotspot. Rebranded from the existing Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort, the resort is anticipated to feature 500 modern and residential rooms, suites, and villas, three food and beverage outlets, extensive conference space, three pools, a spa, and a kids club.

Sheraton Hai Phong, currently known as Vinpearl Hotel Imperial, Hai Phong, is expected to become one of the city’s top choices for business and leisure travelers and a hub for conferences and events in the center of Vietnam’s largest port city. The property is anticipated to feature 362 modern, residential rooms and suites, four food and beverage outlets, a ballroom and four function spaces, a pool, spa and fitness center.

Sheraton Can Tho expects to be a landmark property in the thriving Mekong Delta city. Currently operating as the Vinpearl Hotel Can Tho, the 262-key hotel is set on the banks of the Can Tho River, surrounded by multiple attractions. Guests can unwind at the restaurant, lobby lounge, terrace café and outdoor swimming pool with pool bar. There is also extensive event space, including a grand ballroom.

Four Points by Sheraton Lang Son is a 21-story hotel in the heart of the charming northern city of Lang Son, offering panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountains. Currently known as the Vinpearl Hotel Lang Son, it is expected to become the first internationally branded hotel in the city. The hotel is anticipated to feature 127 rooms and suites, four food and beverage venues, a spa and a ballroom, all catering to the needs of today’s everyday traveler through its vintage modern design, stylish comfort, authentic sense of the local, and genuine service.

Two new build hotels are expected to open in 2025 – the Sheraton Vinh and Four Points by Sheraton Ha Giang. Both are located in unique locations promising to attract not only domestic but also international travelers.

Marriott International currently operates 10 hotels and resorts in Vietnam. The company recently announced its plans to more than quadruple its portfolio in Vietnam with a signed pipeline of 30 hotels. Today’s announcement brings the company’s pipeline in Vietnam close to 40 hotels.

As a leading tourism – resort – entertainment brand in Vietnam, Vinpearl currently operates 35 hotels and resorts spanning 17 cities and provinces, with a total of more than 18,500 hotel rooms and villas. The cooperation with Marriott International is part of Vinpearl’s strategy to advance and internationalize the brand in the hospitality field. This perfect combination expects to elevate domestic and foreign tourists’ diverse experiences through Vinpearl’s signature local ‘all-in-one’ complexes and world-class standard services by an international prestigious hotel company.

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 expected unit and rooms growth; our growth pipeline; expected hotel and other project development, conversions and openings; and brand debuts 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.

About Marriott International, Inc.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 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.

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: In praise of Paul Kelly

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Regular readers will recognize Paul Kelly from my ramblings – the Australian singer songwriter I’ve declared my favourite musician of all time. Described by the BBC as “the closest thing Australia has to a poet laureate, dealing in the experiences, aspirations and problems of everyday,” the Adelaide native is a storyteller extraordinaire, often with an Aussie sensibility akin to The Tragically Hip’s ingrained Canadian DNA.

He has been called the Australian Dylan, and I compare him to Blue Rodeo.

Importantly, Kelly’s songs never come off as quirky, despite the sometimes very specific subject matter – whether covering the ethereal delights of seeing Sydney from an airplane, remembering a favourite cricket hero, heart-breaking indigenous issues, deeply nuanced love stories, or even the plight of an inmate who laments not being able to make gravy for his family at Christmas.

A favourite of mine is the 1987 song “To Her Door,” which was named one of Australia’s top 30 songs ever by the Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA). Interestingly, the fictional character in the song uniquely is reprised in future tunes (including “Gravy”) as well.

Lyrics

They got married early, never had no money
Then when he got laid off, they really hit the skids
He started up his drinking, then they started fighting
He took it pretty badly, she took both the kids

She said, “I’m not standing by to watch you slowly die
So watch me walking out the door
Out the door, out the door”

She said, “Shove it, Jack, I’m walking out your fucking door”

She went to her brother’s, got a little bar work
He went to the buttery, he stayed about a year
Then he wrote a letter, and said, “I want to see ya”
She thought he sounded better, she sent him up the fare

He was riding through the cane in the pouring rain
On Olympic to her door
To her door, to her door
To her door, to her door

And his heart was singing like a lowdown guitar

He came in on a Sunday, every muscle aching
Walking in slow motion like he’d just been hit
Did they have a future? Would he know his children?
Could he make a picture and get them all to fit?

He was shaking in his seat, riding through the streets
In a Silver Top to her
Shaking in his seat, riding through the streets
In a Silver Top to her door
To her door, to her door
To her door

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts Evokes Luxurious Coastal Charm With the Opening of Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort, Paros

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Cosme offers an intimate 40 suites, designed to reference the style and beauty of Paros.

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort, Paros. The idyllic island of Paros is home to serene landscapes, refined culture, rich culinary history, naturally sculpted whitewashed architecture, cobbled pathways and stretches of crystal-clear beaches. Embracing the authentic Cycladic lifestyle and encouraging a carefree state of mind, Cosme offers global explorers an invigorating journey of experiences on the shores of the Aegean Sea, celebrating the joy of life in the charming town of Naoussa. Developed by Kanava Hotels & Resorts, Cosme embraces hoteliers Antonis Eliopoulos’ and Kalia Konstantinidou vision and ethos for understated luxury while elevating authentic, Greek hospitality.

“We strongly believe in creating authentic, timeless experiences for our guests, encouraging deeper connections between themselves and the destination, by embracing the culture, rituals and traditions as well as evoking a sense of calm,” said Kalia Konstantinidou, Co-Owner of Kanava Hotels & Resorts. The time is right to celebrate life and feel free. This is the concept behind the creation of Cosme. Our location, architecture, services and people open up possibilities, allowing guests to express their individuality and choose how they connect, imagine, and enjoy. Every aspect of the hotel is designed to give guests the freedom to make the experience their own.”

The property’s design, created by architecture and design studio ID Laboratorium, is characterised by the one-of-a-kind ‘Aegean Touch’ and elegantly blends rare elements from around the Mediterranean with bold Cycladic lines. Design details throughout reference the style and beauty of Paros. All buildings are clean-lined and made with local stone showcasing harmonious architectural compositions inspired by the island’s bright fishing villages and indigenous houses. Even the hotel’s half-moon pool is an ode to the destination, reflecting the shape of the bay in which Cosme stands. Designed as a natural extension of Naoussa, meandering pathways throughout the property create an intimate village-style feel, reminiscent of the town itself, encouraging guests to revel in chance encounters and serendipitous moments of discovery. The resort’s open-air entrance and stone pathway, decorated with a curated explosion of greenery, leads into a marble-floored reception and lobby area that references historical Cycladic buildings. The entrance is light-filled and brought to life with a mural by artist Christina Mandilari of Naked Summers as well as distinctive wallpapers and fabrics featuring handmade embroidery by Pierre Frey. The resort also features a private beach and beach club.

The resort offers an intimate 40 suites, each uniquely appointed and with select suites featuring private pools and views across the crystalline waters. All suites include custom-made furniture by renowned Spanish designer Jaime Hayon, paired with fabrics in warm shades of burgundy and red as well as classic designs with stripes in shades of blue, a colour synonymous with Greece. Spanning 60 square meters and with views of the Aegean Sea, the exclusive and lavish Cosmos Suite is one of the most luxurious accommodations on the island. The ultimate escape, its expansive terrace comes with a private pool, open-air dining area, sunbeds and views across to Cosme’s private beach.

“The opening of Cosme this summer is an exciting development for Paros and The Luxury Collection brand,” said Philipp Weghmann, Vice President and Global Brand Leader for The Luxury Collection. “The Luxury Collection provides today’s global travelers with experiences that are highly immersive and deeply reflective of the destination. Kanava Hotels & Resorts has been an incredible partner in bringing this vision to life at Cosme, creating an experience for guests that is singular to Paros and special in every way.”

Remaining true to the island’s roots, Kalia Konstantinidou has personally crafted concepts that bring a true sense of individuality to the hotel. These include a culinary journey by celebrated Greek chef, Yiannis Kioroglou, who brings his passion for ‘Medite-Grecian cuisine to the hotel’s dining destinations, beachside Parostia and laidback Volta at the heart of the resort. Having joined the team from La Petite Maison in Cannes and La Guerite in Saint Barths and with a background in some of Europe’s favourite dining spots, Yiannis remains faithful to his Greek heritage and breathes Greek ‘philoxenia’ into all of his culinary creations. Each recipe reflects the generosity and laid-back, yet rich traditions of Paros, Greece and the Mediterranean sea. Guests also have the opportunity learn how to cook traditional regional dishes in the Aroma Garden with dedicated sessions each day.

Art is also an integral part of the guest experience with an eclectic mix of native multimedia Greek artists on display. Combining modern and classical approaches, these include Margarita Myrogianni’s abstract images of details and shadows from traditional handmade embroidery, which become an abstract place of reference for images such as fishermen’s nets, sea urchin shapes, nautical ropes and the light of the Cycladic islands. The potter Dimitris Spyros decorates various hidden corners of the hotel with his unusual forms that are inspired by the sculptural stones of the island’s landscape. Outdoors, ID Laboratorium selected the artist Terpsichore, who collaborated with the ceramicist Nikos Gagiatsos to create the faces of its famous lazy sailors, painted on pots.

Located at the highest point in the resort and named after the Greek God of the Sun, Elios Spa pays tribute to the extraordinary setting in which it is nestled. Embracing the slow-paced Cycladic way of life, Elios Spa is a sanctuary for the senses where guests encouraged to rediscover harmony through holistic treatments using exclusively indigenous resources, pure extracts and innovative techniques. The carefully selected spa partner, KORRES, blends rare organic ingredients from Greece and the wider Mediterranean to create locally-inspired healing rituals, treatments and therapies that can be crafted to guests’ needs and are designed to stimulate and revitalize the body, soul and spirit. Signature rituals include the Korres Greek Yogurt Facial, the Aegean Sensation Candle Massage and the Elios Sunlight Wellbeing Journey. On the roof of the spa, a dedicated space for star-gazing overlooks Naoussa and the sea, making it ideal for mind-broadening yoga and meditation rituals.

Rates from 900 euro in high season.

PRESS INQUIRIES:

UK & US
PURPLE
27-29 Glasshouse Street, London UK, W1B 5DF
Phone: +44 (0)20 7434 7006
kanavahotels@purplepr.com

The Luxury Collection® Hotels & Resorts
Georgie Noble, Director of Consumer PR, EMEA, Marriott International
Georgie.Noble@Marriott.com

About Kanava Hotels & Resorts
Kanava Hotels & Resorts was created in 1989 by Antonis Eliopoulos, joined in 2000 by his wife Kalia Konstantinidou. Today, Kalia & Antonis Eliopoulos own and manage successfully three awarded five-star hotels and several luxurious villas in Santorini, as well as one five-star hotel and a villa complex in Paros. Kanava Hotels & Resorts elevates authentic, Greek hospitality through its distinct brands of organic, understated luxury. With a strong sense of location in the most exclusive destinations, each unique property offers a celebration of Greek escape for the experiential traveler. Drawing inspiration from the abundant nature and the pastoral landscapes surrounding the properties, the assembly offers an accommodation experience that seems to decelerate time and fill visitors with a sense of solace and serenity. The brand’s core principles of sublime regional architecture and design, holistic wellbeing and the reflection of local culture and meaningful experiences, immerse the explorers into the authentic Cycladic island life and carefree state of mind. For more information, please visit www.kanavahotels.com.

About The Luxury Collection® Hotels & Resorts
The Luxury Collection® is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination’s indigenous charms and treasures. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA® brand as a collection of Europe’s most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of more than 120 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 35 countries and territories. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world’s finest. For more information and new openings, visit theluxurycollection.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. The Luxury Collection 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.

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Oman Air Joins OneWorld Alliance to Strengthen Premier Airline Alliance

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Oman Air Joins OneWorld Alliance to Strengthen Premier Airline Alliance - AIRLINEHUB.com - TRAVELINDEXMuscat, Oman, June 22, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Based in Muscat, Oman Air was elected as a oneworld member designate in Doha by the oneworld Governing Board, comprising the Chief Executives of all oneworld member airlines. oneworld member Qatar Airways will act as sponsor for Oman Air’s entry into oneworld, providing guidance and support as the airline integrates into the alliance.

Oman Air is expected to be implemented into oneworld in 2024, following which it will provide the full range of oneworld benefits to customers travelling on its flights. Members of Oman Air’s Sindbad frequent flyer programme will be able to earn and redeem miles on all oneworld member airlines, with top tier members receiving additional benefits including lounge access when travelling with other oneworld members.

Oman Air’s entry into oneworld will provide even more flights and destinations to customers planning global travel across the alliance’s members, making oneworld the only global airline alliance with three members in the Middle East after Qatar Airways and Royal Jordanian. Oman Air’s joining will add new destinations to the oneworld network including Duqm and Khasab in Oman and Chittagong (Bangladesh). oneworld Emerald, oneworld Sapphire and premium cabin customers will also gain access to three Oman Air lounges at Muscat, Salalah and Bangkok.

Launched in 1993, Oman Air is the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman. From its roots as a domestic airline, it has transformed into an international carrier serving 41 destinations in more than 20 territories. It operates a modern fleet of more than 40 aircraft comprising Boeing 737s, 787s and Airbus A330s. Configured in a two or three-class cabin, Oman Air’s aircraft offer exclusive First Class Private Suites on longer-haul flights. Known for its exceptional in-flight hospitality, the airline has received several awards including most recently the APEX Passenger Choice Award for Best Seat Comfort in the Middle East.

Oman Air operates to five oneworld member airline hubs – Amman, Colombo, Doha, Kuala Lumpur and London Heathrow – and already codeshares with four oneworld member airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Qatar Airways, Royal Jordanian and SriLankan Airlines. Joining oneworld will pave the way for additional codeshare opportunities, further enhancing global connectivity across the alliance’s network.

Following its entry into oneworld, Oman Air will be the third new member of the alliance in five years, marking another achievement in oneworld’s rapid growth. Royal Air Maroc joined the alliance in April 2020, adding oneworld’s first full member in the African continent. This was followed by Alaska Airlines in March 2021, making oneworld the only global airline alliance with two members in the United States.

oneworld Governing Board Chairman and Qatar Airways Group Executive His Excellency Akbar Al Baker said: “Today marks a new milestone in oneworld, as our friends at Oman Air become a member elect of our award-winning alliance. Passengers of Oman Air will be offered a seamless travel journey, connecting them to more than 900 destinations across 170 countries. As the Chairman of oneworld, we look forward to welcoming Oman Air into our alliance as they will bring great benefits, allowing passengers to discover not just a new member with an excellent reputation, but a beautiful country.”

oneworld CEO Rob Gurney said: “We are delighted that Oman Air has chosen oneworld as its global airline alliance partner. With its network in Muscat and award-winning customer service, Oman Air will reinforce our position as the premier airline alliance for global travellers. As the global travel industry continues to recover from the pandemic, the significant growth of oneworld in recent years demonstrates how important alliances and partnerships will continue to be.”

Oman Air CEO Eng Abdulaziz Al Raisi said: “Oman Air’s admittance into oneworld represents a defining moment in our journey to provide passengers with greater travel options through our developing partnerships and alliances. We’re delighted to be joining the world’s foremost airline alliance at a time when demand for travel is on the rise. We look forward to welcoming oneworld members onboard Oman Air to experience the height of Omani hospitality and all that the Sultanate of Oman has to offer in terms of history, culture and natural beauty.”

About oneworld
oneworld member airlines work together to deliver consistently a superior, seamless travel experience, with special privileges and rewards for frequent flyers, including earning and redeeming miles and points across the entire alliance network. Top-tier cardholders (Emerald and Sapphire) enjoy access to airport lounges and are offered extra baggage allowances. The most regular travellers (Emerald) can also use fast track security lanes at select airports.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Publishes New Report on Destination Resilience

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WTTC Publishes New Report on Destination Resilience - SUSTAINABLEFIRST.com - TRAVELINDEXSan Juan, Puerto Rico, June 22, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today published a new report on practical guidelines and case studies to support destinations in becoming more resilient and sustainable at its Sustainability and Investment Forum taking place in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The report, ‘Enhancing Resilience to Create Sustainability in Destinations’, jointly created with ICF, WTTC’s industry partner and a renowned global consultancy and digital services provider, provides practical, structured insights, for destinations as they consider their resilience and sustainability.

Following the last two years of chaos brought on by the almost complete halt to international travel, no tourism destination has been untouched by the impact of COVID-19.

And, many destinations have also been affected by major shocks, such as extreme weather.

To support and guide destinations, this innovative analysis builds on real life case studies and presents a range of resilience actions for destinations before, during or aftershock events.

The report provides five elements destinations should focus on to build both resilience and long-term sustainability: environment, infrastructure, energy, economic, and societal resilience.

It offers four phases to analyse the shock and its aftermath: ‘understand the risk’, ‘prepare for shocks’, ‘respond to shock’, and ‘longer term strategies’.

The report presents case studies illustrating how destinations which rely heavily on tourism, whether they are cities or islands, deserts or tropics, apply resilience awareness.

Puerto Rico is one of the destinations featured as a case study, highlighting the string of environmental crises and economic challenges that have made resilience a cornerstone of their tourism strategy.

Key learnings underline the importance of small businesses, identifying risks and implementing initiatives to handle any potential crisis.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “COVID has had a devastating impact, decimating the Travel & Tourism sector around the world. But it’s certainly not the first shock to bring chaos destinations and their citizens.

“This report allows destinations to understand how to better prepare, act, and plan for future risks, strengthening their resilience and long-term sustainability.

“The pandemic has taught us you can never be prepared enough. Destinations have learnt not only from their own experiences, and those of other countries as they recover and build back.

“Puerto Rico is an example of a destination that learned through COVID and natural disasters to become more inherently resilient.”

John Wasson, ICF Chair & CEO, said: “For over half a century, ICF has been passionate about partnering with organizations all over the world to enact and institutionalize sustainable policies and practices.

“Today, we are proud to partner with WTTC to offer unique insights and practical guidance on developing adaptable sustainability plans that build long term resilience, despite prevailing uncertainties and increasing extreme events.”

Lastly, the report offers recommendations identified as key for destinations in their journey to improve their resilience: developing successful governance models, ensuring ownership and shared value, and preparation and processes for the next shock.

In 2019, the Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP was 10.3% (U.S. $9.6 trillion), falling to 5.3% (nearly U.S. $4.8 trillion) in 2020 when the pandemic was at its height, and suffered a staggering 50% loss.

WTTC’s latest EIR report also revealed that 2021 saw the beginning of the recovery for the global Travel & Tourism sector.

Its contribution to GDP climbed an impressive 21.7% year on year, to reach more than US$5.8 trillion.

The sector saw a recovery of more than 18 million global Travel & Tourism jobs, representing a positive 6.7% rise in 2021.

While recovery is underway, more can be done to ensure the sector has a sustainable and inclusive future.

To read the report in full, please click here.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News