Global Travel News

Thailand Number One ASEAN Destination for International Tourist Arrivals

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Vientiane, Lao PDR, January 27, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism ministers from the 10 ASEAN member states met at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, and agreed to enhance the region’s global competitiveness by promoting high-quality, responsible, and sustainable tourism practices.

According to Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Thailand surpassed other ASEAN nations in tourist arrivals last year, welcoming over 28 million visitors, a remarkable increase of 154% compared to the previous year. She elaborated that the influx of foreign tourists to Thailand in 2023 surged by 11.06 million to reach 28.09 million, marking a 153.94% rise from 2022.

In contrast, Vietnam, another popular tourist destination among ASEAN members, experienced a significant increase in tourist numbers, with 12.06 million visitors in 2023, reflecting a 344.2% surge from the previous year’s 3.66 million. Singapore recorded 12.37 million visitors in 2023, marking a 130% rise from 5.37 million in 2022. Cambodia and the Philippines also saw substantial growth, with tourist arrivals increasing by 139.5% and 105.38% respectively compared to the previous year. Brunei welcomed 82,109 tourists in 2023, a remarkable jump of 345.61% from 18,426 in the preceding year.

During her presentation, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), highlighted the significance of the ASEAN Tourism Forum as a pivotal platform for promoting ASEAN tourism. She emphasized the various components of the event, including meetings of ASEAN Tourism Ministers, a tourism conference, national tourism organization media briefings, and the TRAVEX trade show, in promoting ASEAN as a unique tourism destination globally.

Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, outlined TAT’s strategy to reinforce Thailand’s image as a sustainable and responsible tourism destination. He emphasized efforts to enhance sustainability standards and leverage Thai cultural assets to offer enriching travel experiences.

The substantial increase in tourist arrivals across ASEAN countries in 2023 was attributed to the success of joint promotional campaigns by member states. The meeting also reviewed progress on ASEAN’s tourism recovery plan post-Covid-19, noting that 60% of the actions outlined in the ASEAN tourism strategic plan for 2016 to 2025 had been implemented or were in progress.

The ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan underscores the commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism development among member countries, aiming for ASEAN to become a quality tourism destination offering diverse experiences by 2025. The meeting in Vientiane focused on measures to accelerate the recovery of the tourism sector, emphasizing cooperation among member states.

Looking ahead, the next ASEAN Tourism Forum is scheduled for January 25 in Johor, Malaysia under the theme “Unity in Motion: Shaping ASEAN’s Tourism Tomorrow.” This gathering will continue to steer the trajectory of ASEAN’s tourism industry towards robust, responsible, and sustainable growth.

 

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: Jan. 23-27, 2024

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Forbes named its best Canadian employers for 2024 – find out which travel companies made the list; other Round-Up highlights include five new planes for WestJet, the launch of Lynx summer service from Montreal to L.A., a sales booking record for Holland America, and consideration by Crystal of its status in the Red Sea.

NEWS

The Canadian travel industry isn’t a bad place to work according to Forbes, which released its annual Canada’s Best Employers rankings for 2024. Among travel-oriented companies to make the list were Marriott Canada at No. 46; Transport Canada – 47; Accor – 77; Expedia Group – 88; Hilton – 108; Four Seasons – 138; VIA Rail – 150; Air Canada – 185; Porter Airlines – 186; Blue Mountain Resort – 189; GTAA (Toronto Pearson) – 210; CAA Quebec – 213; BCAA – 226; WestJet – 249; Transat AT – 260; Manulife – 267, Best Western – 283; and Canadian North – 286.

Meanwhile, Air Canada was also recognized as one of the top employers for young people in Canada in 2024 (numeric ranking not designated), the first time the airline has received this recognition. The honour, awarded by Mediacorp Canada Inc., celebrates the nation’s leading organizations for their commitment to developing and nurturing young professionals. through innovative and forward-thinking programs for young workers, including mentorship, training, career opportunities, and social responsibility.

Perimeter Aviation, the parent company of Bearskin Airlines says it plans to discontinue passenger service from Thunder Bay, Ont. to Dryden, Fort Frances, and Kenora effective May 11. Termination of the flights is being blamed on financial reasons. The alternative is an Ontario Northland bus that provides transportation in a loop between the cities.

BY THE NUMBERS

While visitor spending reached a record $7 billion in 2023, Toronto reached 93% of pre-pandemic arrivals, according to the year-end Toronto’s ‘Visitor Economy: 2023 Market Performance Highlights’ report published by Destination Toronto. Toronto welcomed 8.95 million visitors in 2023, compared to 9.56 million visitors in 2019 with domestic travellers accounting for 71% of all visitors. International visitors – including the vital US market – have shown slower recovery and remain 25% below 2019 levels.

AIR

Five brand new Boeing 737 MAX 8s are being added to the WestJet fleet with the planes expected to arrive in early 2025. Combined with its existing order book, WestJet will now receive as many as 22 brand new Boeing 737 MAX airplanes before the end of 2025, and up to 62 additional airplanes of this type before the end of 2028.

A new route between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) will be launched by Lynx summer with three non-stop flights per week starting on July 11, increasing to daily service as of Aug.11, 2024. Fights will initially operate Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday and tickets are now on sale.

Porter Airlines took flight with roundtrip service between Toronto Pearson and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) on Jan. 25.

United will remain the largest US carrier to/from Canada with over 150 daily flights between the countries, serving nine destinations in Canada from all seven of its US hub airports this summer. Highlights of United’s “significant” Canadian expansion include: The resumption of flights between Halifax-Newark/New York, Vancouver-Washington, D.C, Winnipeg-Denver, and service from Chicago to Winnipeg and Quebec City, all starting in May; Flying larger planes to Edmonton and Montreal from its hubs in Denver and New York/Newark, respectively; and adding more flights to Toronto, Calgary, and Ottawa.

DEALS

St. James’ Club & Villa, Elite Island Resorts’ family-friendly, all-inclusive resort in Antigua is offering one free place for children aged 11 and under staying with two or more adults in all room categories until January 2025. All food, beverages, activities on site and non-motorized water sports are free for the child for the duration of the stay.

EVENTS

 Visit California recently conducted its 2024 Western Canada Trade Roadshow with stops in Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver. Despite frigid Canadian weather, more than 250 travel advisors and 22 trade partners took part, including Air Canada, Air Canada Vacations, WestJet, Porter Airlines, Travel Brands, AMA Travel, Ensemble and Virtuoso (photo). Agents participated in an interactive training platform, including the “California Dating Game,” which highlighted each destination through a fun gameshow-style format.

TOURS

Through Jan. 21, G Adventures’ ‘Great Adventure Sale’ offers 25% off on a huge range of trips throughout 2024. Destination include Colombia, the Galapagos, India, Italy, and Thailand, with savings in effect for travel booked through Dec. 15. For a full list of trips, click HERE.

A new Explorations brochure for 2024 has been released by Collette. The guide features 42 of Collette’s small group Explorations tours, comprised of average groups of just 16 travellers, allowing for a more immersive experience. Tours feature inclusions like spending a night in a Buddhist monastery while in Japan, attending an oyster shucking demonstration while in Maine, and zipping around in a Tuk Tuk while in Thailand. This year’s brochure also includes a preview of an entirely new batch of Explorations tours set to debut in 2025, which will feature destinations like Namibia, South Africa, Greece, Portugal, The Balkans, and South America.

To see it, click HERE.

HOTELS

Now in its 24th edition, Hôtel de Glace, located in Village Vacances Valcartier in Québec City will remain open until March 16. This year’s theme is “Historic Timeline,” spanning the evolution of human life, exploration, and cultural milestones, from music and fashion to sports, video games and writing. Each room and corridor in the ice hotel is themed to a different historical period, adorned with intricate ice sculptures narrating defining moments. Visitors can choose daytime or evening passes or book an overnight stay.

Hotel Indigo, dubbed the ‘World’s Neighbourhood Hotel,’ is seeing rapid global growth with more than 150 properties open and another 130 in the pipeline. Additionally, the brand is poised to double its reach in the next three to five years. In the Americas, Hotel Indigo has continued to bolster its presence with 2023 openings in must-see destinations for next-gen explorers, including the Galápagos Islands, Guadalajara, La Paz and Panama City, Fla. New hotels coming soon in the region include offerings among the inspiring and culturally rich neighbourhoods surrounding Washington, D.C., Barbados, and Grand Cayman.

RESORTS

Sunscape Coco Punta Cana is the newest addition to the Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt. The newly remodeled 1,059-room family-friendly resort expands the Inclusive Collection’s portfolio in the Dominican Republic to 15 resorts and marks the opening of the second Sunscape Resort & Spa branded property in the country. Nestled along the pristine Bavaro Beach in the colourful town of Cabeza de Toro, Sunscape Coco Punta Cana offers a fresh, contemporary design that complements the natural surroundings of bent coconut palms and the Laguna Bavaro Wildlife Reserve.

Jamaica’s The Tryall Club, the luxury private luxury property and golf club in Montego Bay, has opened The Spa at Tryall, offering a plethora of bespoke treatments and fitness offerings, including sound therapy, yoga meditation, massage treatments, guided breathing, and more. Located near the northeast edge of the 200 sq. m. property, The Spa at Tryall was created by The Tryall Club to enhance the guests’ experience with therapeutic wellness. The facility is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, including the full list of treatments and products, go to www.tryallclub.com/spa-in-jamaica/.

CRUISE

With shipping under attack in the Red Sea, Crystal Cruises is the latest cruise line to take stock of its situation in the region. Citing safe passage of its cruises as being of paramount importance, the cruise line says it is “diligently working to create alternate itineraries, recognizing the potential need to make adjustments should the need arise to cancel voyages that transit the Red Sea” and that it will “maintain an ongoing conversation with our guests to ensure their preferences are considered and addressed.” Notably, Crystal says its World Cruise will still reach Miami by June 8, 2024, even impacted by a course change.

Holland America Line says it set a new single-day sales record on Jan. 16, topping the previous record from July 11, 2023, by 18%, and making it the biggest sales day in the 150-year history of Holland America Line. The cruise line also set a record for the week ending Jan. 19, achieving its largest-ever bookings week during a “wave” season, the traditionally high booking period for the cruise industry between January and March. Over one-third of the week’s bookings were for Holland America Line’s Alaska cruises. Guests were also planning ahead, with 22% of the reservations made for cruises in 2025 or later.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

The Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure will be opening in Daytona Beach, Fla., in early 2024 and will be the destination’s first aquarium offering an interactive educational experience featuring animals from both land and sea. The 5,100-sq.-m. facility will be located on the northwest corner of International Speedway Blvd. and Nova Road in the heart of Daytona Beach. Plans for the aquarium include close to 40 separate tanks including a 416,000-litre shark tank and a 45,000-litre-gallon stingray touch pool. There will also be habitats for alligators and crocodiles, frogs, and lizards. The indoor rainforest will be coming in phase 2 and is planned to open within eight to 12 months after opening. The rainforest will have animals like, sloths, armadillos, tamarins, Toucans, and other various types of birds.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

Travel advisors becoming a Peru Agent with PromPerú before Feb. 28 can win a $250 Amazon gift card! Visit the Peru Agent web side or download the app for access to the course.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

 Air Transat has named Benjamin Pron VP Commercial Air Transat. Employed by the airline company since 2019, Pron until recently held the position of Commercial Director for Air Transat. In this new role, Pron is responsible for developing and implementing the airline’s sales and distribution strategy in Canadian and international markets, including France and Benelux, the UK, Ireland, and GSA markets.

Porter Airlines is introducing a new senior leadership structure to support its ongoing growth. The president and CEO roles will be separated, with Michael Deluce continuing in the position of CEO, while current executive VP and CCO Kevin Jackson assumes the role of president.

DESTINATIONS

The Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) has appointed Toronto-based Siren Communications to lead its public relations in Canada to raise awareness of the destination across the country. “Virginia Beach is a wonderful travel destination that offers something for everyone,” says Siren founder Ann Layton. “This sunny stretch of the Virginia coastline has so many cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, theatres, and historic sites. The boardwalk is a popular attraction in its own right with many restaurants, shops, and entertainment options for travellers of all ages.”

San Diego Museum Month will return for its 35th year in February and for the first time, the popular program is expanding to include cultural sites in Tijuana and Baja California, making it the biggest and most diverse ever, with more than 70 regional cultural sites offering half-off admission throughout the entire month.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1986, Britain and France announced plans to build a tunnel under the English Channel. (The “Chunnel” was opened on May 6, 1994. Regular passenger service began six months later.)

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Gran Meliá Opens Its First Hotel in Barcelona: Torre Melina

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Gran Meliá Opens Its First Hotel in Barcelona: Torre Melina - TOP25HOTELS.comMadrid, Spain, January 27, 2024 / TOP25HOTELS / After a complete renovation, and surrounded by 25,000 square metres of gardens, the hotel chain kicks off 2024 by restoring the splendour of one of Barcelona’s most iconic hotels. Designed by architect Carlos Ferrater and inaugurated during the 1992 Olympic Games, Gran Meliá has transformed the former Rey Juan Carlos I hotel into an urban oasis open to the city.

The new Torre Melina, named after the old 12th-century farmhouse on which the main building was constructed, is in a privileged location in the upper area of the Diagonal, next to the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya.

Contemporary and functional, the hotel features 391 rooms, including 61 suites; 18 indoor and outdoor function rooms, and a private rooftop with 360º views. The property also features Gran Meliá’s signature luxury amenities – including an exclusive RedLevel Lounge, spa and wellness facilities and restaurants. Torre Melina also has several outdoor pools and a heated pool.

The majestic and robust structure of the hotel is spread over sixteen floors in the heart of the gardens designed by landscape architect Josep Fontserè i Mestre, who conceived the Parc de la Ciutadella and designed Barcelona’s Born market. The abundant homages to architecture are also found inside the building, with a large vertical lobby that shows the floors of the rooms forming a set of polygonal lines that stagger the different surfaces.

Rooms and suites are divided into 14 categories, from entry-level Deluxe rooms to the exclusive Royal Penthouse Suite RedLevel. The RedLevel rooms and suites are located between the 10th and 15th floors, giving them all magnificent panoramic views of the mountains or the city. Among these, the One Bedroom RedLevel Long Stay suites stand out, featuring a bedroom, a separate en-suite living room, and a small kitchen.

The jewel is the 300m2 RedLevel Royal Penthouse Suite, a three-storey suite with its own dining room, living room, kitchen and rooftop.

The new suites and the shared areas represent one of the hotel’s most outstanding features after its renovation. The ASAH Studio by Álvaro and Adriana Sans, Meliá Hotels International partner and interior designer, has been in charge of the interior design, making it contemporary, enjoyable and sophisticated. The team paid particular attention to the pieces and tones that facilitate fluidity and make light a protagonist in a lobby that doubles as an amphitheatre.

The F&B spaces all offer an elegant and trendy atmosphere. Although the hotel prioritises the terraces for lunch, dinner or as a wedding venue in the middle of nature, the gastronomic options will be shaped both inside and outside the hotel in the coming months:

  • Erre de Urrechu Barcelona: in this signature restaurant managed by Íñigo Urrechu, craftsmanship and experience merge with grilled cuisine. Located in the hotel lobby, this grill pays meticulous attention to the selection of ingredients, highlighting seasonal organic vegetables, wild fish and the most outstanding national and international meats. Diners can also enjoy an extensive menu with more than 200 wines.
  • Beso Pedralbes: the Meliá brand is associated with the Beso brand, bringing the beach to the upper area of Barcelona. Located next to the Torre Melina pool, Beso Pedralbes will become the culinary space where guests can enjoy a complete experience with a taste of the sea and Basque embers in an all-over fun setting.
  • Chroma by Erick Lorincz: Managed by Erik Lorincz, renowned as one of the industry’s most outstanding and talented mixologists, Chroma will be one of Barcelona’s hottest meeting spots. Winner of the prestigious Best Bartender of the Year 2010 award, founder of the Kwänt Restaurant in London and with more than two decades of experience, Lorincz brings his innovative flavours and creations to the hotel’s ground floor.

With these three gastronomic proposals, Torre Melina completes its kitchen with Gala and L’Amaranta, with an all-day dining service.

A few meters from the Polo Club of Barcelona, the David Lloyd Club Turó and Camp Nou, the new hotel by Meliá Hotels International’s luxury brand has been designed to open up to the city with an exceptional dining offer, as well as to offer a double experience: a perfect hotel for business travellers looking to disconnect in a unique natural environment, and for travellers visiting the city for pleasure and short and long holidays.

“RedLevel guests can expect an even more personalised service. They will also have access to VIP spaces and unique amenities” explains General Manager Ramón Vidal Castro.

Just one year after announcing the addition of this iconic property to Gran Meliá’s portfolio, the hotel chain opens the doors of the only establishment in its category in Barcelona: as the first Gran Meliá hotel and the twelfth property in Ciudad Condal, the opening of Torre Melina further reinforces the presence of Meliá Hotels International in the destination as a key player in the luxury hospitality segment in which architecture, gastronomy, art, design and the quality of its experiences shape the main cornerstones of the brand.

“A project as ambitious as this is symbolic, embodying the greatness of a city and paying tribute to the Olympic spirit that lives on three decades later,” says Ramon Vidal Castro.

About Meliá Hotels International

Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 400 hotels open or in the process of opening in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of ten brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Affiliated by Meliá. The Company is one of the world’s leading hotel chains in the leisure segment and its experience in this area has allowed it to consolidate itself in the growing market of urban hotels inspired by leisure. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led it to be recognised as the world’s most sustainable hotel company in 2022 according to S&P Global’s Corporate Sustainability Assessment, as well as being a “Top Employer 2023” brand in Spain, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy, Germany, France and Vietnam. Meliá Hotels International is also part of the IBEX 35.

About Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts

Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts is the first Spanish luxury hotel brand, which takes residence in some of the world’s most beautiful landmarks, combining timeless luxury, stunning architecture and Spanish culture. Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts offers exceptional experiences and services, which are a modern expression of Spanish culture. There are currently 18 Gran Meliá properties worldwide, with the brand continuing to expand its global footprint. All properties are located in the most important global travel destinations, such as Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques (Madrid, Spain), Gran Meliá de Mar (Mallorca, Spain), Gran Meliá Colón (Seville, Spain), Palazzo Cordusio (Milan, Italy), Gran Meliá Xi’an (China), Gran Meliá Sancti Petri (Cádiz, Spain), Gran Meliá Iguazú (Argentina) and Gran Meliá Nha Trang (Vietnam). The brand is set to expand further in Asia, with the launch of Gran Meliá Lombok within the next few years.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Joins Biosphere to Standardise International Hotel Sustainability

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Madrid, Spain, January 26, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / More than 2,500 hotels will benefit from this collaboration. The partnership aims to support common core principles in hotel sustainability, driving accommodation towards sustainable alignment. In a joint effort to promote sustainability in the Travel & Tourism sector, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Biosphere have inked a partnership to promote sustainability criteria in the hotel industry under the Hotel Sustainability Basics initiative.

In the current landscape of globalisation and information saturation, where sustainability holds paramount importance, the proliferation of new standards and eco-labels poses a significant challenge for the sector. Identifying clear and consistent sustainability criteria has become increasingly difficult.

Biosphere and WTTC have joined forces and solidified their commitment to fostering a more sustainable hotel industry to establish fundamental steps for global sustainability practices,

This marks a significant milestone for global hotel sustainability, benefiting over 2,500 hotels.

As partners of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (SHA), both organisations are optimistic that standardising their sustainability concepts will undoubtedly catalyse widespread adoption by hotels worldwide.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Hotel Basics is a crucial and inclusive industry initiative, ensuring hotels continue to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of both travellers and the planet.

“The collaboration between Biosphere and WTTC is a fundamental step towards international standardisation in sustainability, creating a clear and homogeneous pathway for the industry.”

The recent signed agreement between WTTC and Biosphere will lay the groundwork for a network of international criteria homogenisation.

This initiative aims to facilitate the industry’s transition from basic criteria to more advanced global standards, aligning with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 goals of the United Nations. This connection is made possible through the Guide for Sustainable Tourism of UN-SDSN Spain and Biosphere.

Dr. Tomás de Azcárate Bang, President of the Responsible Tourism Institute, said: “Sustainability must be viable, understandable and achievable. This requires consensus and harmonisation of concepts, steps, and measures, which this agreement seeks to accomplish.

“The harmonisation of languages and processes will establish a more stable and defined international framework for all stakeholders aligning with sustainability models.

“This partnership signifies a milestone for the industry. By synching our approaches, we are paving the way for a rock-solid international playbook, inviting all players worldwide to align with sustainability models”.

This collaboration will result in the integration of the WTTC’s Hotel Sustainability Basics verification and the Biosphere methodology, creating the most comprehensive international framework for the sector, with a unified vision connected to the Sustainable Development Goals.

Hotel Sustainability Basics emerged as a result of a clear demand from a significant group of global hotel brands to develop fundamental sustainability criteria that all accommodation providers must meet as a minimum, designed for the industry, by the industry.

Hotels, guest houses and tourist residences will be able to adopt the 12 criteria of the initiative, focusing primarily on the following main lines of action:

1. Measuring and reducing energy and water consumption, as well as reducing waste and carbon emissions
2. Fundamental actions to protect the environment.
3. Fundamental actions towards a positive contribution to the communities in which they are located.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Malaysia Champions Sustainability at ATF 2024, Set to Host 2025 Event

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Vientiane, Lao PDR, January 26, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Malaysia took center stage at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 (ATF2024) in Vientiane, Laos, promoting sustainable development, ecotourism, and community involvement. Their delegation, led by Tourism Secretary General Dato’ Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman, unveiled their vision for responsible tourism through a dazzling official opening ceremony and cultural dances by Istana Budaya.

As ATF2024 unfolded, Malaysia’s booth at TRAVEX, featured stunning eco-tourism attractions and traditional handicrafts by KARYANEKA, captivated visitors. Their focus resonated with the forum’s theme, “Quality and Responsible Tourism – Sustaining ASEAN Future.”

Beyond promoting their own initiatives, Malaysia celebrated regional unity. In a stunning ceremony, officials from across ASEAN gathered to witness the official handover of the ATF2025 hosting duties to Malaysia. The event, characterized by vibrant cultural performances and warm diplomatic exchanges, served as a beacon of collaboration and shared future ambitions within the region.

The event, held in the Landmark Mekong Riverside Hotel in Laos, saw the presence of notable personalities, including Dato Sri Tiong King Sing JP, the Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture of Malaysia. Also among the delegates were Christina Gracia Frasco, the Secretary of the Department of Tourism of the Philippines, and Dr. They Thet Khine, the Union Minister of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism of Myanmar. Harry Hwang, the Director of the Regional Department of Asia and Pacific, was also in attendance, along with numerous other dignitaries representing various ASEAN nations.

Joining the Malaysian delegation were representatives from Perak Tourism, Melaka Tourism and Johor Tourism as well as local dignitaries, excellencies, media, and tourism industry players. Malaysia will officially become the next host for the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025, marking its return to hosting ATF since the last event in 2014 in Kuching, Sarawak.

The Malaysian delegation was led by Dato’ Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman, Secretary General of Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia, accompanied by Dato’ Dr. Ammar Bin Abd. Ghapar, Director General of Tourism Malaysia; and H.E. Ambassador Edi Irwan bin Mahmud, Malaysian Ambassador to the Lao PDR.

Highlighting their commitment, Malaysia announced it will host the prestigious ATF2025, marking a return since 2014. This decision further confirms Malaysia’s role as one of the leaders in ASEAN tourism, exemplified by their dedication to showcasing their diverse offerings, from eco-tourism havens to bustling modern cities. The handover ceremony emphasized ASEAN’s unity and collaborative spirit for a bright future in tourism.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UN Tourism Celebrates High-Level Support after FITUR 2024

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Madrid, Spain, January UN Tourism has celebrated the first major tourism event of 2024, FITUR travel trade fair in Madrid, advancing its priorities for the sector for the year ahead.

Ahead of FITUR, UN Tourism – the new name for the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) released its latest data. The first World Tourism Barometer of the year highlighted the sector’s recovery, with international arrivals back to 88% of pre-pandemic levels at the end of 2023. With full recovery expected in 2024, UN Tourism again served as the bridge between public and private sector leaders to build a more resilient and sustainable future.

Welcoming Leaders to UN Tourism

With the new UN Tourism name and logo officially announced to Members on the eve of FITUR, the Organization then welcomed a series of high-level visitors to its Madrid headquarters. The visit of the President of the Republic of Ecuador, His Excellency Daniel Noboa Azín underscored his country’s commitment to tourism as a source of growth and development, also reflected in Ecuador being the official partner country of FITUR 2024. Secretary-General Pololikashvili commended President Noboa and Ecuador’s Minister of Tourism Niels Olsen Peet, for making clear the role tourism can play in bringing hope and promoting understanding even in challenging times. In recognition of his leading role, President Noboa Azín was presented with an honorary UN Tourism plaque.

Within the framework of FITUR Secretary-General Pololikashvili also held bilateral meetings with the Ministers of Tourism of Albania, Argentina, Colombia, Croatia, Cuba, Czechia, Dominican Republic, Gambia, Gabon, Haiti, Jamaica, Iran, Jordan, Palestine, Tanzania, Jordan, Serbia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Focus on tourism investments

UN Tourism has identified investment as a key priority for transforming the sector. Within the framework of FITUR, UN Tourism hosted “Invest in Zambia”, bringing together public sector leaders from the country as well as from other African Member States, alongside high-level private sector representatives and investors.

Alongside this, UN Tourism further built on its partnership with the Investment Bank for Latin America (CAF). The two parties agreed to jointly publish “Tourism Doing Business” Investment Guidelines focused on Brazil, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico and Peru, while also re-launching the revised guidelines for investing in tourism in Ecuador.

Building a more ethical and sustainable sector

UN Tourism gathered together a number of signatories of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism. The side event reinforced the shared commitment to addressing climate challenges across the whole of the tourism sector, highlighting key challenges as well as opportunities to do better. Additionally, the International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) formally welcomed its newest members, Nuevo León (Mexico) and Petén (Guatemala). They bring the global network to 44 members.

Also growing in size and impact is the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism. UN Tourism welcomed three new private sector signatories, Piñero, Kuoni and Hotel Taimar to the Code, a comprehensive set of principles that helps to maximise the benefits and minimise the negative impacts that tourism development can have on the environment, cultural heritage and societies around the world.

Best Tourism Villages 2024 Launched

Continuing its work to grow tourism as a pillar of rural development, UN Tourism opened applications for the 2024 edition of its “Best Tourism Villages” initiative.

UN Tourism Member States are invited to submit up to eight candidate villages. Applications are open until 24 April 2024, with the selected villages announced in the third quarter of the year.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dazzling Opening Ceremony of the Asean Tourism Forum 2024 in Vientiane

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Vientiane, Lao PDR, January 25, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Captivating the delegates with performances of cultural splendor and unity at the opening ceremony of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 in Vientiane, Laos. ATF 2024 is taking place from February 22nd to 24th, with the theme ‘Quality and Responsible Tourism,’ lights the way to sustain ASEAN’s vibrant future.

The opening ceremony was held at the Don Chan Palace Hotel in presense of the Deputy Prime Minister of Lao PDR, the Secretary-General of ASEAN and the Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism of Lao PDR, Mrs. Suansavanh Viyaket among a large number of dignitaries from all ASEAN countries.

Her Excellency, Mrs. Suansavanh Viyaket, emphasized why Laos holds a special place as a preferred tourism destination, distinguishing itself with its breathtaking natural beauty characterized by lush jungles, serene rivers, and majestic mountain ranges. The country’s untouched and pristine environment appeals strongly to nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Beyond its natural splendors, Laos is celebrated for the warm hospitality ingrained in its local culture. The Laotian people are renowned for their friendliness, warmly welcoming visitors and eagerly sharing their cultural traditions.

Moreover, Laos boasts a wealth of historical treasures, including the UNESCO-acclaimed town of Luang Prabang, the mysterious Plain of Jars, and ancient temples like the revered Wat Phou. Each of these sites provides a window into the country’s rich history and heritage.

ASEAN Secretary-General, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn delivered remarks during the Opening Ceremony and in his speech, Dr. Kao underscored the importance of ASEAN maintaining the positive momentum of progress in the development of the ASEAN tourism sector. He also highlighted that sustainable tourism development is crucial in the conservation and preservation of the environment, local culture and heritage, as well as in driving economic growth in the region.

Themed “Quality and Responsible Tourism – Sustaining ASEAN Future,” the forum aims to strengthen collaboration in further improving ASEAN tourism products to attract more international tourists.

The Lao government expects to attract at least 2.7 million foreign tourists in 2024, generating about US$401 million in revenue. Foreign tourist arrivals are forecast to reach 2.9 million and generate an income of $434 million in 2025.

To fulfil the expectations, the Lao government is putting every efforts including infrastructure enhancement, tourism products diversification and service quality elevation.

In 2024, Laos will host a series of significant events, including the 44th and 45th ASEAN summits, and other ASEAN-related meetings. The country anticipates these events will further elevate its status as a prime tourist destination, drawing in more visitors and fostering international collaborations, said the report.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LOS CABOS – A PLACE TO FISH AND CUT BAIT

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Los Cabos is perhaps best known internationally for its luxurious accommodations, sophisticated cuisine, and breathtaking landscape, but for fishing enthusiasts, this dichotomous destination of beaches and deserts is known for a very different reason: With teeming waters off the Baha peninsula in Mexico home to a wide variety of sea life, Los Cabos is specifically reputed as the “Marlin Capital of the World.” And anyone can (try to) catch one.

Indeed, the giant sportfish draws anglers from across the globe in search of the fishing tale of a lifetime.

Of course, Los Cabos is not only for sport fishers: the destination welcomes anglers of all proficiencies to cast their reel with a comprehensive offering of fishing experiences to suit every experience level. Here’s how to go about it:

Deep sea fishing

The sight of a majestic Striped Marlin breaching the water is as much a symbol of Los Cabos as the Arch rising out of turquoise Cabo Bay – and the best chance to reel one in is to get on the water between November and March.

For those new to the sport, it’s a good idea to be upfront with one’s charter operator/guide. The Sea of Cortez – famously dubbed “the world’s aquarium” by Jacque Cousteau – is home to a plethora of marine life and hundreds of tropical fish varieties. On the off chance the one’s quest for a Marlin comes up short, never fear, it’s impossible to go home empty-handed in waters rich with so many other species.

Visitors are required to purchase a fishing license and can do so at their departing marina but be prepared for long lines during peak season. At the same time, when selecting a chartered fishing package, choose one in which a license, equipment, bait, and tackle are included.

In addition to supplying all fishing gear and live bait, Los Cabos’ many fishing charter companies, such as Go Deep Fishing Charters, include lunch and refreshments for guests on its half and full-day charters. And those lucky enough to reel in a catch can keep up to five fish per person per day.

Surf & shore fishing

For those who prefer to stay on dry land or just prefer a more relaxed pace, shore fishing is an excellent way to experience all the fun of casting a line without having to worry about nautical headings. It’s also an extremely accessible way to get a taste of the hobby, as fishing from the shores of Los Cabos does not require any documentation or license.

Anglers, however, are responsible for keeping their cast at least 250 metres from any swimmers, should they find themselves sharing space on one of the destination’s popular beaches.

Meanwhile, companies like Cabo Fishing Charters also lead light tackle fishing expeditions along the shoreline of the Sea of Cortez where rock piles and reefs that hug the coast are ideal habitats for prized catches like Roosterfish, Amberjack, Snappers, and countless other species that populate these coral coves.

Sport fishing events

For fishing in its most competitive form, Los Cabos does not disappoint. A number of world-class fishing tournaments provide an opportunity to test one’s skill and make every catch just a little bit more meaningful – especially when a prize is on the line.

The city is home to the world’s highest-paying Marlin tournament and has seen more record-breaking catches than any other location. Some of the area’s other prestigious competitions include Bisbee’s Black and Blue and the Los Cabos Billfish Tournament, held annually in October.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Anam Rings in Year of the Dragon at Cam Ranh and Mui Ne

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The Anam Group’s two beachfront resorts at Cam Ranh and Mui Ne will mark the most important time in the Vietnamese calendar, Tet, with a selection of exquisite dining, recreational, spa and entertainment experiences.

In the lead-up to Tet on Saturday, Feb. 10, The Anam Cam Ranh and The Anam Mui Ne will stage a ceremony on Feb. 2 to plant “Cay Neu”, a towering Lunar New Year bamboo pole to ward off evil spirits, followed by dragon dancing.

Overlooking one of Vietnam’s most impressive stretches of sand, Long Beach, The Anam Cam Ranh’s program from Feb. 8-14, 2024 is filled with festivities including:

  • Lang Viet Restaurant and Bar serving a special family Tet set menu with the likes of “Banh chung” glutinous rice cake, grilled beef in “la lot” leaves, and braised pork belly, to foster quality family time. Additional Tet dishes are also on offer.
  • The Indochine and Colonial restaurants offering traditional Tet items during breakfast.
  • Dragon dancing at the lawn and Indochine from 9am, a movie aired on the center lawn under Cam Ranh’s starry night sky from 6pm and a live Filipino band performing at The Beach Club from 7pm on Feb. 10.
  • On the second day of Tet, Sunday. Feb. 11, at the lobby, the traditional custom of calligraphy giving, with a calligraphy master writing lucky letters on red paper for guests from 10am-12pm. “To he” traditional glutinous rice toy figures will be on offer from 3-5pm, with a musician playing “Dan Tranh”, a wooden zither with strings, from 6-7pm.
  • Guests making Banh chung at Lang Viet from 10am-12pm on Feb. 12.
  • Lang Viet serving “Tet Cho Que” buffet – the name meaning Tet at a village market – with free-flow soft drink and local beer from 7-9.30pm. To be accompanied by live traditional instrumentalists and dancers. The buffet’s many stations include:

o   A ‘grilled and skewers’ station with, for example, grilled snakehead fish on sugar cane served with vegetables and rice paper;

o   A ‘steamed’ station with clams, prawns, snail and baby squid;

o   A ‘live’ station with Nha Trang fish noodle soup and Phu Yen chicken rice;

o   A ‘Vietnamese traditional cakes’ station with offerings ranging from “Thanh Tri” steamed thin rice pancakes to Vietnamese rice dumpling cakes.

o   ‘Sticky rice’, ‘Banh mi’, ‘Vietnamese cold cuts’ and desserts stations; and

o   ‘Show cooking’ stations include jellyfish with green mango salad, morning glory with snails station and deep fried spring rolls with greasyback prawns.

  • Kite flying at the center lawn from 3-5pm on. Feb 12, 13 and 14.
  • A BBQ buffet at the Beach Club on Feb. 13 from 6-9pm to a backdrop of live music by the Filipino band. A fire show will be staged on the center lawn from 8pm.
  • Tapas and cocktails at Saigon Bar throughout the program
  • An exclusive day lounge from 11am-3pm at Colonial for guests staying in high-end accommodations before afternoon tea is served between 3-5pm.

Following a hugely successful year since its January 11, 2023 debut, The Anam Mui Ne will host a program of Tet celebrations from Feb. 9-14, 2024 featuring:

  • Two daily Tet set menus each celebrating either Northern or Southern Vietnamese cuisine at Lang Viet Restaurant and Bar.
  • Daily spa workshops at The Anam Spa from 1-1.30pm focused on hand massage techniques,a soothing facial mask, making homemade body scrub, and releasing muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, on Feb. 9, 10, 11 and 12 respectively.
  • A Banh chung making workshop on Feb 9 from 3-5pm on the lawn area.
  • Breakfast with some traditional Tet items at Indochine from Feb 10-14.
  • Dragon dancing in the lobby from 9am, followed by a “Pho pizza” making workshop for kids at Indochine from 3-4pm on Feb 10.
  • A calligraphy master writing lucky letters at the lobby during the morning from Feb 10-12.
  • Lang Viet’s “Vietnamese Roast Night” buffet from 6-9.30pm on Feb. 10 with traditional music.
  • A paper lantern making workshop for kids on Feb 11 at the grass area and kids club. Indochine’s “Butcher’s Cut and Sea Catch BBQ Buffet” from 6-9pm comes with free-flow soft drink, beer, and wine, with a band performing. Highlights include whole roasted goat, baked snapper, porchetta and kebabs at the ‘carving’ station. In addition to ‘bread’, ‘sushi’, ‘appetizers and salads’, ‘soup’, ‘sauce and condiments’ and ‘desserts’ stations, a ‘hot dishes’ station offers plenty from Nasi goreng to braised lamb shoulder. The ‘barbecue’ station will brim with abalone, king clams, tiger prawns, local snails, squid, beef striploin, lamb rack, pork ribs, chicken wings and mixed vegetables.
  • Kite flying from 3pm on Feb 12, followed by an array of street food stations assembled on the grass area overlooking Mui Ne beach as part of a “Street Food Buffet” from 4-6.30pm. Beef, chicken and pork skewers, stir-fried corn with baby basket clams, “Banh xeo” crispy pancakes, bubble milk tea and plenty more will be on offer.
  • Tapas and cocktails served at the new Saigon Bar adjacent to Mui Ne beach.

About The Anam Group
After the auspicious debut of The Anam Cam Ranh in 2017, the independently owned and operated The Anam Group celebrated the grand opening of its second property, The Anam Mui Ne, in January 2023.

With “Indochine Charm” and “Modern Luxury” as its watchwords, the group blends colonial-era aesthetics and attentive Vietnamese service with modern comforts and convenience. “The Anam” today is a reference to another name, “An Nam”, which was the name of Central Vietnam during the French Indochina era.

The Anam Cam Ranh overlooks 300 metres of beachfront on Vietnam’s scenic Cam Ranh peninsula, which averages more than 300 sunny days per year. The luxurious five-star resort boasts 77 villas and 136 rooms and suites. The Anam Cam Ranh features a French-inspired fine dining restaurant, all-day dining restaurant, a Vietnamese restaurant and bar, a classical bar, a beach club, in-room dining, a 10 treatment-room spa, indoor and outdoor movie theatres, three capacious swimming pools, ballroom, conference rooms, recreation and fitness centre, a tennis court, yoga room and deck, kids club, putting green, gift shop and more.

Like its predecessor The Anam Cam Ranh, The Anam Mui Ne’s design is also an echo out of Vietnam’s Indochine era. Situated in southern Vietnam’s popular beach town Mui Ne, the 1.2 hectare beachfront resort affords spectacular ocean vistas and features 127 elegant rooms and suites, including seven 142sqm suites with private pools and a 122sqm presidential suite with an extra room for the bodyguards. Its dining landscape comprises an all-day dining restaurant and grill, beachside restaurant and bar, and lobby bar. A five-treatment room spa, two vast swimming pools, a ballroom, conference rooms, water sports center, fitness center, yoga room, kid’s club and gift shop are among the resort’s host of world-class facilities.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Joyned and Gratifii Announce Partnership to Elevate Customer Experience

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Award-winning travel tech start-up Joyned has announced a new partnership with Gratifii, an Australian market leader in providing loyalty and engagement programs from a single platform.

Joyned’s social revenue platform is now available across 60 partner brands of Gratifii in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore, enhancing the travel experience for customers through increased collaboration between friends and family.

The new agreement between Joyned and Gratifii will explore the technical and commercial viability of several synergistic product offerings, including a promotion and distribution agreement between their respective platform and distribution networks, which is to be rolled out initially as a proof of concept (POC).

The partnership also facilitates the development of a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for the Joyned ecosystem, enabling Gratifii’s customers to experience Joyned’s collaborative booking platform. This allows friends and family to seamlessly book trips abroad together through a micro social network which unfolds directly from Gratifii’s platform.

This results in improved engagement and conversions, with Gratifii and its partners typically enjoying a conversion rate five times higher, with increases to overall website revenue. Joyned’s platform also provides data-driven insights, enabling optimized offers to further grow customer retention.  

Commenting on the partnership, Joyned CEO, Jonathan Abraham, said: “We are delighted to announce our new agreement with Gratifii which will see Joyned’s social revenue platform used as part of their offering. Through this collaborative partnership, Joyned and Gratifii will continue to innovate a better, more collaborative experience for consumers and by expanding our presence across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore, we are confident consumers will benefit.”

Gratifii CEO and Managing Director, Iain Dunstan, added, “We are excited to be working with Joyned to expand our new travel rewards brand Neat Destinations and improve the booking experience for family or friends who want to travel together. Further, we are in discussions with some of our existing clients to integrate the Joyned platform into their existing travel offerings.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News