Global Travel News

MEET MET – MONTREAL’S NEW-LOOK AIRPORT

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Montreal Saint-Hubert Airport (YUH) has revealed a new brand identity, reflecting its transformation into commercial aviation as construction of its new terminal, in partnership with Porter Airlines, progresses. Located in Saint-Hubert since 1927, the airport will now be known as MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport.

The abbreviation MET will be used to enhance brand recognition and accessibility, according to designers. The green line incorporated into its logo symbolizes the movement of the Saint Lawrence River, reflecting connectivity, mobility, and the dynamism of its new purpose.

At the same time, its electric green colour builds upon the previously used forest green and is meant to highlight the organization’s commitment to the development of green and innovative technologies.

“With this substantial development, we are changing the very nature of the airport. Our ambition is to revolutionize the airport model, making it a source of collective pride and inspiring the world to view air transport differently. This is what the new identity of the airport represents,” says MET CEO Yanic Roy.

He adds, “Upon the opening of the new terminal in the summer of 2025, airlines will serve the entire country. Consequently, MET will be propelled among the largest airports in Canada. In doing so, Montreal will join the trend of major world metropolises that benefit from multiple interconnected airports to meet their air transport needs.”

More than just a name change, the new identity of MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport is the promise of an innovative and different airport experience that listens to communities and industry stakeholders, initiates the latest advancements to build a leading, innovative, and sustainable airport model, says Roy, who adds, “We are not seeking growth at any cost. We are developing an airport in harmony with its environment, in consultation with communities, and utilizing its facilities to promote innovation and green transition… We aim to surpass the traditional model of air transport and contribute more to society.”

A year ago, the airport, located 15 km from downtown Montreal, announced its partnership with Porter for the construction of a commercial terminal with a capacity of 4 million passengers annually.

At the time, Porter said it would continue expanding its existing operations at Montréal’s Trudeau Airport (YUL), while also introducing a Canada-wide network at the convenient YHU airport, giving it two Montreal hubs to parallel its two facilities in Toronto.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

NEW TICO FEES REVEALED, CONSUMERS WON’T PAY

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Starting April 1, the Travel Industry Council of Ontario will introduce a new fee structure that it says is more equitable for registrants across the board, but which will see rates for members increase 3.4 percent on average (based on 2019-20 sales). Notably, the new funding model for TICO and the provincial Compensation Fund will not include a consumer pay option.

The province’s regulator has been conducting a framework and fee review for the past year with the aim, it says, of developing “a fair and modern funding model that reflects cost recovery, delivers value to stakeholders, and continues to keep consumer protection at the forefront.”

In October, TICO shared five proposals with industry and conducted a five-week consultation process, which it acknowledges produced both positive and negative feedback.

However, it points out that the final outcome was also predicted on the provincial Auditor General’s recommendation that TICO revise the fee structure to ensure operating costs are sufficiently funded through registration and other fees charged to registrants (i.e. not consumers, which industry organizations like ACTA and CATO are seeking).

To that end, TICO reports the following fee changes will take place:

  • Decreased Compensation Fund payments to $0.05/$1,000 from $0.25/$1,000 of Ontario Gross Sales (proposal #1 from consultation). As a burden reduction measure, Compensation Fund assessments will only be due one time per year, payable within 90 days of year-end. Mid-year filings will no longer be required.
  • Recalibrated fee bands and a new method for calculating renewal fees (shown below). Ontario Gross Sales (OGS) continues to be the basis for calculating fees (proposal #4 from consultation).

New late filing fees (proposal #5 from consultation)

When will fees change?

If your year-end is on or after April 1, 2024, you will calculate your renewal fee and Compensation Fund assessment based on the new fee model.

  • Compensation Fund assessment – $0.05/$1,000 OGS, calculated using the last 12 months of sales.
  • Renewal fee based on the new fee bands, calculated using OGS reported on your last financial filing.
  • You can estimate your fees using TICO’s fee estimate calculator(note: renewal fees and Compensation Fund assessments are calculated using sales levels from different years). You will continue to receive an invoice for renewal fees approximately 60 days prior to your payment due date.
  • Payments are due to TICO within 90 days of year-end and must be accompanied with a Form 1 submission.

If your year-end is on or before March 31, 2024, you will calculate your renewal fee and Compensation Fund assessment based on the existing fee model. You will switch to the new fee model for your 2024/2025 renewal cycle.

  • Compensation Fund assessment – $0.25/$1,000 OGS
  • Renewal fee based on existing fee bands
  • Payments are due to TICO within 90 days of year-end and must be accompanied with a Form 1 submission.

Status of other proposals

As part of the consultation process, TICO made two additional proposals that require government consideration and decision-making:

  • Proposal #2 – Remove end-supplier coverage from the Compensation Fund; and
  • Proposal #3 – Double the maximum per person Compensation Fund limit to $10,000.

These proposals have been brought forward to government with a request for consideration.

Voluntary consumer pay model

TICO says it understands that industry is looking for added flexibility to recover regulatory costs. As part of the consultation, TICO asked registrants if there was an interest in a voluntary consumer pay model, where regulatory fees would be disclosed and passed through to consumers at the point of sale. The “overwhelming” answer was “no,” says TICO, with registrants stating that any fees passed to consumers would be a competitive disadvantage, an added burden, and potentially cause consumer confusion.

The bottom line

TICO notes that it hasn’t increased its renewal fees since 2011, in spite of a travel environment that has become more complex with the evolution of technology, the post-pandemic environment and the prevalence of fraud.

The new funding model, it says, represents a 3.4% aggregate increase in total fees paid by registrants, based on sales from 2019/2020, adding that while some registrants will see fee increases higher than this rate, the new fee bands are more equitable at distributing fees across all registrants. Additionally, there is a minimum cost to regulating a registrant of any size, which the new minimum fee of $750 addresses.

TICO says it is open to revisiting the lowest fee band within 1-2 years of implementation to better understand the impact on registrants; to consider the transition to an enhanced risk-based model; and the broader recommendations contained in the Auditor General’s report.

More information contact tico@tico.ca or call 1-888-451-TICO (8426).

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

AI Set to Revolutionise Travel and Tourism, WTTC Report

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London, United Kingdom, February 2, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Major new reports from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Microsoft highlight the transformative power of AI (Artificial Intelligence) for Travel & Tourism, marking a commitment to a digital future with unparalleled customer experiences.

The first in a series of AI reports, announced during the global tourism body’s event at FITUR and in collaboration with WTTC’s Industry Partner, Microsoft, is poised to redefine Travel & Tourism standards and call on the sector for greater integration of such technologies.

As the global leader in Travel & Tourism, WTTC is committed to driving innovation and supporting the sector to embrace AI and other cutting-edge technologies. To promote sustainability and excellent customer experiences, WTTC acknowledges the crucial importance of AI in revolutionising the sector.

Throughout the traveller’s journey, WTTC believes AI can play a pivotal role in delivering a tailored and enhanced experience now and in the future.

This technology can empower personalised recommendations and marketing strategies by analysing traveller data, optimising pricing strategies through real-time adjustments, and offering instant responses and fine-tuned interactions via sophisticated AI powered chatbots.

The report also highlights AI’s capabilities extend to predicting future demand patterns, efficiently allocating resources, and providing valuable insights for governments and Travel & Tourism stakeholders.

This contribution can be pivotal in promoting sustainability with efficient resource management by monitoring and minimising environmental impacts, ensuring a more responsible and sustainable sector.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Travel & Tourism, AI emerges as a catalyst for positive change.

“The transformative capabilities highlighted in this report demonstrate that AI is not just a technological advancement, it is a strategic tool that can personalise the customer experience, drive sustainable improvements, and create real time pricing models.”

Julie Shainock, Microsoft Managing Director Travel, Transport & Logistics, said: “Using Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Models across the travel sector allows greater productivity for companies and drive a more personalised consumer experience.

“For travellers, the ability to drive more inspiration and personalized offers at booking to providing tools to consumers to proactively assist them while in destination to anticipate their needs with relevant information to improve their journey. For travel companies, GenAI is there to increase productivity, automate the predictable, and allow our human centric approach to the high value moments in travel to shine more.”

Despite the increasing examples of AI applications in Travel & Tourism, the report reveals the sector lags other consumer-facing industries in AI adoption. AI’s surge across various sector’s last year is now a relevant force, and the Travel & Tourism sector must act now to leverage its impact.

Challenges that must be overcome by Travel & Tourism businesses include a shortage of AI-skilled workers, limited AI infrastructure, and the absence of a formal ‘AI strategy’ in many business plans.

Travel & Tourism businesses are urged to embrace AI as a strategic priority, investing heavily in talent to foster collaboration between humans and AI.

Amidst concerns about AI’s impact on jobs, the report addresses the potential for job creation, recognising that although AI will be disruptive, it will in turn generate new opportunities.

In the quest for sustainable AI practices within the Travel & Tourism sector, responsible data management emerges as a crucial strategy.

Implementing measures such as data minimisation, efficient storage, and responsible data disposal, becomes pivotal for organisations seeking to minimise their carbon emissions when using new digital technologies, and reduce their AI environmental footprint significantly.

The report explores AI applications in society and business, emphasising the need for safe and responsible AI system design in Travel & Tourism, signifying a milestone in the sector’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, and showcasing AI’s potential to shape a bright future for Travel & Tourism.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Research Underscores Role Played by World Heritage Convention in Protecting Biodiversity

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Paris, France, February 2, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / A UNESCO and IUCN assessment of the status of species reveals that UNESCO World Heritage sites harbour over 20% of mapped global species richness within just 1% of the Earth’s surface. Safeguarding these biodiversity hotspots is essential if the the Kunming – Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework is to be achieved. UNESCO is appealing to the 195 States Parties to the Convention to scale up investment in the conservation of their sites, and to nominate all remaining areas key to biodiversity conservation for World Heritage inscription.
Biodiversity in WHS

“This study demonstrates the importance of UNESCO World Heritage sites in protecting biodiversity. These 1,157 sites are not only historically and culturally outstanding, they are also critical to the preservation of the diversity of life on Earth, maintaining essential ecosystem services, and addressing climate disruption.” Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director-General

The UNESCO and IUCN first-time assessment of the status and trends of species reveals that UNESCO World Heritage sites make up less than 1% of the Earth’s surface, yet they harbour more than 20% of mapped global species richness, including more than 75,000 species of plants including trees and over 30,000 species of mammals, birds, fishes, reptiles and amphibians.

These sites serve as formidable natural observatories for advancing scientific knowledge thanks to the concentration of over half of all mammals, birds and hard corals species in the world. They are also an endless source of inspiration for new environmental protection initiatives.

The last line of defense against extinction

The World Heritage Convention confers the highest level of international protection to some of the most significant sites for biodiversity conservation in the world. These sites are estimated to protect over 20,000 threatened species, including up to one-third of all elephants, tigers and pandas, and at least one-tenth of great apes, lions and rhinos.

For some species on the brink of extinction, World Heritage sites have become the last line of defense. They are home to all remaining Javan Rhinos, Vaquitas (the world’s smallest cetacean) and Pink Iguanas, as well as more than half of all Sumatran Rhinos, Sumatran Orangutans and Mountain Gorillas.

The World Heritage Convention enables coordinated initiatives with all relevant stakeholders: local populations, national and regional authorities, international organizations, among others – resulting in many conservation success stories. For example, actions undertaken in the Kaziranga National Park (India) and Chitwan National Park (Nepal) since their inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List in the mid-1980s have more than doubled the population of Greater one-horned Rhinos to around 4,000 individuals.

Humanity and biodiversity are deeply intertwined

The benefits provided by biodiversity are innumerable and form the bedrock of our relationship with nature. The variety of ecosystems within UNESCO World Heritage sites maintain important environmental services for people, such as protection of water resources, as well as providing jobs and income through sustainable activities. UNESCO World Heritage sites are also instrumental to further strengthen the link between nature and culture, as many cultural sites, including those in urban areas, can also protect important biodiversity and are an ally in efforts to halt nature loss.

The clock is ticking for immediate action

However, there is an urgent need to strengthen conservation measures: every 1°C increase in global temperature could double the number of species threatened by dangerous climate conditions. Given their role as vital biodiversity hotspots, UNESCO World Heritage sites must be protected at all costs by the States Parties of the Convention.

World Heritage sites key to achieving the global objective of halting biodiversity loss

UNESCO encourages member states to prioritize World Heritage sites in National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), since they are key to moving the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) into action. The study is an additional tool for site managers to take the necessary actions to achieve these objectives.

By 2025, all World Heritage site managers will be trained in climate change adaptation strategies, and by 2029 all sites will have a climate adaptation plan – as announced by the Director General of UNESCO in November 2022 at the 50th anniversary of the Convention.

UNESCO and IUCN thank Conservation International, the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI), the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS), the University of Arizona and the University of Connecticut for their contribution to this study.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Jim Thompson x GranMonte Announce Exclusive Wine Collaboration

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Bangkok, Thailand, February 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson, the iconic global lifestyle brand from Asia, in collaboration with GranMonte, is proud to announce the launch of an exclusive wine collection, marking a significant move in the gastronomy realm for the lifestyle brand. This collaboration brings together the culinary craftsmanship of Jim Thompson with the viticulture expertise of GranMonte, a family-owned vineyard and winery in Thailand’s Khao Yai region, a testament to both brands’ commitment to excellence and innovation.

The Jim Thompson X GranMonte Collection features two distinct wines: the Jim Thompson X GranMonte Syrah and the Jim Thompson X GranMonte Verdelho. The bold red Syrah encapsulates ripe raspberry and blackcurrant flavors with a vanilla oak finish. The crisp white Verdelho offers an aromatic bouquet of gooseberry and passion fruit with a flinty undertone.

This first wine collection from Jim Thompson stands out with its unique label design – stylized patterns in red and earth tones for the red wine and blue with earth tones for the white, inspired by Thai silk motifs. The label draws from Jim Thompson’s “The Icon of Siam” scarf, capturing the majestic Chao Phraya River and the spirit of Siam while highlighting Thailand’s iconic landmarks and cultural beauty. The neck of the wine bottles is further embellished with decorative trims sourced from Jim Thompson Home Furnishings. Specially crafted 100% silk wine bags at Jim Thompson’s factory in Nakhon Ratchasima province turn the bottles into perfect gifts: a gold bag for red wine and a blue bag for white.

GranMonte Vineyard and Winery is spearheaded by Visootha ‘Nikki’ Lohitnavy, Thailand’s first qualified oenologist. Dedicated to sustainable practices and employing cutting-edge techniques adapted to the unique terroir of Khao Yai, GranMonte crafts internationally acclaimed wines exclusively from locally grown grapes. Situated in the Asoke Valley at an elevation of 350 meters near the UNESCO-listed Khao Yai National Park, the 40-acre vineyard has earned the title of “Best National Producer – Thailand” by AWC Vienna multiple times. Its wines carry the Khao Yai Wine Geographical Indication, ensuring their origin and quality.

States Joan Tana Dot, Food and Beverage Director of Jim Thompson, “This partnership represents a natural evolution of Jim Thompson’s offerings, broadening our range to include premium wines that enrich our customers’ experience. With these exclusive vintages, available at Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant, we’re not just offering a meal but a curated dining journey that pays homage to the heritage of Jim Thompson and the GranMonte. This collaboration not only underscores Jim Thompson’s position as a lifestyle brand, showcasing Thai excellence, but also reflect our commitment to supporting local Thai brands and communities.”

At Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant, Executive Chef Pepe Dasí Jiménez has crafted a selection of dishes that harmonize perfectly with the Jim Thompson X GranMonte wines. Guests can enjoy the special menu pairs 2021 Jim Thompson x GranMonte Verdelho with Sourdough toast with grilled local eggplant and tomato relish, Miang Kham Iberico and a unique Deep-Fried Lotus Root creation served with salted egg sauce. The Grilled Inky Striploin Wagyu main course menu is perfectly paired with 2021 Jim Thompson x GranMonte Syrah.

Suvisooth ‘Mimi’ Lohitnavy, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at GranMonte, highlights, “This partnership with Jim Thompson signifies a fusion of tradition and innovation, as we bring the essence of our vineyard to a wider audience through Jim Thompson. Our collective efforts have culminated in a special wine collection and label that embodies the rich terroir of our estate and the intricate beauty of Thai silk. We are thrilled to offer connoisseurs a taste that encapsulates the spirit of Thailand’s craftsmanship and GranMonte’s wine making excellence”

The Jim Thompson x GranMonte wine collection is a celebration of Thai culture and craftsmanship, available exclusively at Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant. For reservations and more information, please contact: 02-612-3601.

About Jim Thompson
No brand spells heritage like Jim Thompson, the Thai Silk Company founded in 1951 by James H.W. Thompson, an architect, art collector, socialite, and entrepreneur who is recognized as the driving force behind the revival of Thailand’s silk industry. Jim Thompson’s disappearance remains one of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing unsolved mysteries. Today, Jim Thompson is the iconic global lifestyle brand from Thailand with a reputation for beautiful silks and “Beyond Silk”.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

DASTA, MTCO, Green Destinations and AEN Establish Strategic Partnership

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Bangkok, Thailand, February 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed in Bangkok, establishing a strategic partnership between the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), Green Destinations (GD), and the Trade Association of Asian Ecotourism Network (AEN). This collaboration marks a significant step towards promoting sustainable tourism certification for destinations in Asia with a focus on the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).

“As we embark on this transformative mission, we are committed to elevating tourism destination standards for sustainability, fostering economic stability, and preserving our rich cultural heritage in the subregion. This initiative equips DMOs with the tools to collaborate effectively with all stakeholders in tourism development.”, said Gp. Capt. Athikun Kongmee, Director-General of DASTA.

Ms. Suvimol Thanasarakij, Executive Director of MTCO, shared her perspective on this new partnership: “The signing of this MOU is a testament to our shared commitment to sustainable tourism in the GMS. By uniting our efforts, we aim to develop tourism destinations that are not only economically viable but also environmentally and culturally sustainable.”

“Government leaders have a responsibility to future-proof their destinations for sustainability to protect the environment, stimulate economic growth, and provide international leadership in addressing global challenges. It’s their legacy to their constituents and the future generations to ensure good governance for the people, planet and prosperity,” said Ms. Susan Santos de Cardenas, Southeast Asia Partner and Representative of Green Destinations.

Mr. Masaru Takayama, President of the Trade Association of Asia Ecotourism Network (AEN) commented, “AEN aims high to help introduce sustainable tourism to the GMS countries and grow it together with our partners to make ripple effects to ensure a bright future for the communities and our children for the generations to come while ensuring environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and priority to local employment and economy. The certification scheme should focus on the objectives, progress, and mission-driven actions not just on the scheme itself.”

Spearheaded by DASTA, the MOU outlines a collaborative framework focused on enhancing sustainable tourism practices, particularly in destination management and certification. This initiative encompasses sharing knowledge and resources, supporting the development and testing of sustainable tourism initiatives, and engaging in the exchange of ideas to formulate operational guidelines. These efforts aim to ensure that tourism development in the GMS is conducted responsibly, balancing socio-economic growth with the preservation of the region’s unique environmental and cultural heritage.

About the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO)
The Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) was established in 2006 by the governments of Cambodia, Yunnan Province, and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in China (PRC), Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam. MTCO serves as a collaborative framework dedicated to advancing tourism’s role in fostering inclusive economic growth and environmental sustainability in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). Guided by the GMS Tourism Working Group (TWG), comprising senior representatives from the National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) of the six member countries, MTCO plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable tourism development in the region.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

With Over 560 Open Hotels Projects in Asia-Pacific Marriott International Saw Record Year of Growth

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Bangkok, Thailand, February 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / 2023 marked a terrific year for Marriott International in the Asia Pacific Excluding China region with over 80 deals signed, adding approximately 18,000 rooms in the pipeline for this region. Following the recent announcement by Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) of its strong global net rooms growth and record year of organic signings in 2023, the company highlighted the remarkable surge in hotel and residences openings and signings in the Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) region, particularly in key travel markets such as Japan, India, and Vietnam.

At the close of 2023, Marriott set a milestone in APEC with over 60 properties added to its portfolio during the year, bringing the company’s presence in the APEC region to more than 560 operating hotels and residences, and exceeding 10 percent net rooms growth compared to 2022. The company also sealed a record of over 80 deals signed across 13 markets, representing approximately 18,000 rooms.

As tourism recovers in APEC and the travel landscape evolves, Marriott has continued to focus on strategically providing the best-in-class offerings to owners, franchisees, and guests. At the end of 2023, Marriott’s APEC development pipeline stood at over 320 hotels with over 69,000 rooms, showcasing the company’s dedication to providing world renowned brands and diverse experiences, aligning with the evolving preferences of travelers across the region.

Luxury continues to play a pivotal role in the growth of Marriott, and 25 percent of Marriott’s global luxury rooms pipeline is represented in APEC. In 2023, 15 percent of the deals signed in APEC were in the luxury segment. A record nine luxury hotels were opened in the region in 2023 — including The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne— Marriott’s 1,000th hotel in the Asia Pacific region. The JW Marriott Goa debuted the brand in Goa and was the company’s 150th hotel to open in South Asia, and added The Singapore EDITION, the first EDITION in Southeast Asia.

“With our record year of growth at Marriott International in APEC, we remain committed to meeting the demands of modern travelers underscored by our diverse portfolio of brands and strategic presence in new destinations,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Marriott International, APEC. “2023 has positioned us as a thriving and desirable region in the global landscape. I am excited about our momentum as we focus on being where our customers want us to be and connecting people through the power of travel.”

Marriott Bonvoy – Marriott’s award-winning travel program— has helped fuel interest in the company’s regional portfolio. In APEC, the Marriott Bonvoy membership base has surged by 50 percent since 2019. This momentum is attributed to the unique and unforgettable experiences the program offers, including exclusive access to prestigious events like the Australian Open and Formula 1. Beyond hotel stays, Marriott Bonvoy continues to re-define the regional travel landscape with strategic partnerships with Singapore Airlines, Rakuten and co-branded credit cards in Japan, Korea, and India. The company’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences, coupled with the strength of Marriott Bonvoy, positions Marriott as a leader in shaping the future of travel and hospitality across the APEC region.

For more information on Marriott’s latest developments and brand news, please visit the Marriott News Center.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

CANADA’S MOST WELCOMING PLACES: And other Traveller Review 2024 favourites

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Booking.com has opened its very big envelope to reveal the 2024 winners of its 12th annual Traveller Review Awards. Based on more than 309 million verified customer reviews, and in recognition of delivering consistently excellent service and hospitality, a record 1.48 million travel partners received a Booking.com Traveller Review Award 2024, including 7,725 in Canada.

Highlights of the awards include:

  • Whistler awarded the ‘Most Welcoming City’ in Canada, with Canmore, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Moncton, and Toronto rounding out the top five
  • Italy is home to the largest number of award recipients for the seventh year running, followed by Spain, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom
  • Recognition was given to 1,484,294 accommodations, 449 rental car companies and 129 taxi providers

Read on for a deeper dive:

Most Welcoming Places in Canada

Based on each location’s share of accommodation providers receiving a Traveller Review Award 2024, this year’s list of the Most Welcoming Places in Canada includes five world class mountain sports destinations, a wine lover’s locale that places yearly, and an east coast newcomer to the list. Here are Canada’s most welcoming places for 2024.

  1. Whistler, BC
  2. Canmore, Alta.
  3. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont.
  4. Moncton, NB
  5. Toronto
  6. Québec City
  7. Blue Mountain, Ont.
  8. Victoria, BC
  9. Mont-Tremblant, Que
  10. Revelstoke, BC

Accommodation 

Travellers continue to favourably review the home-away-from-home experience, with apartments claiming the top spot in Canada as the most-awarded accommodation type (1,915 awards). Hotels aren’t far behind, claiming 1,682 awards, then holiday homes with 962 awards, B&Bs earned 794, and chalets round out the top five across Canada with 482 Traveller Review Awards for 2024.

Globally, apartments are the most popular accommodation type for the 7th year running with 710,687 awards. Holiday homes (213,824) have edged out hotels (179,357) for the number two spot, while guest houses (84,715) and B&Bs (71,514) make up the top five most-awarded accommodation types.

Villas saw the greatest increase in award recipients year over year at 23%, followed by holiday homes (20%), and campsites (14%). Overall, there was a 10% increase in awards granted to vacation rentals and other unique properties that offer an alternative to the traditional hotel experience. Travellers are continuing to expand their choices on what types of properties they like to stay in, demonstrating a growing appreciation for the unique hospitality that alternative accommodations can provide.

Most Welcoming Places in the World

Trentino Italy

For the seventh year in a row, Italy is home to the largest number of Booking.com Traveller Award recipients with 181,012. Here is the complete list of the world’s most welcoming places.

  1. Italy
  2. Spain
  3. France
  4. Germany
  5. United Kingdom
  6. Poland
  7. Brazil
  8. United States
  9. Croatia
  10. Portugal

From enchanting coastal towns to alpine retreats and even rustic desert gems, here are the most welcoming cities across the world.

  1. Arraial d’Ajuda, Brazil
  2. Ermoupoli, Greece
  3. Viana do Castelo, Portugal
  4. Daylesford, Australia
  5. Grindelwald, Switzerland
  6. Moab, United States
  7. Uzès, France
  8. Mazatlán, Mexico
  9. Jaisalmer, India
  10. Fujikawaguchiko, Japan

Transportation 

For the fifth year, Booking.com is recognizing its ground transportation partners. Beyond the basics of just getting around, rental cars make it easier for travellers to explore off the beaten path and taxis frequently provide visitors with their first interactions with local people and culture, often setting the tone for the rest of the trip.

This year, 449 car rental partners from 26 countries are receiving a Traveller Review Award. Spain (84) tops the list again with the most car rental companies being recognized, followed by Italy (74), Portugal (47), Greece (42) and the US (28). And 129 taxi partners are also receiving an award with Italy (17) and Spain (12) leading the pack.

“Whether it’s a personalized welcome note from an apartment owner with recommendations for the best spots in the neighbourhood to grab a bite, or a tip on hidden local gems to explore at the car rental counter, our partners make trips more memorable and enjoyable for our customers each and every day,” says Arjan Dijk, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer for Booking.com.

“The Traveller Review Awards are our way of thanking and publicly acknowledging the top-notch service our partners provide to travellers and the critical role they play in our mission of making it easier for everyone to experience the world!”

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

72 HOURS IN VEGAS (WITHOUT BETTING A PENNY)

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By Michael Baginski

Beyond keeping up with Karly (our host and a speed-walker of the first order), Las Vegas is meant to be experienced at double speed. The current concept of “slow tourism” does not apply here.

The desert city, of course, offers no shortage of possibilities to keep the body moving – and notably many of them do not include gambling. In fact, on a recent visit, we blitzed the burg in just less than 72 hours and didn’t set foot in a casino – save that every route from point A to B in a hotel-resort invariably leads past the gaming tables and rows of one-eyed bandits.

That’s not to pooh-pooh poker or shrug off the slots – judging by the crowds, the casinos seem to be doing just fine if you’re interested; rather, our purpose was to forge a new script for the Strip, and experience Vegas in a less-traditional way, proving that one doesn’t have to be Kenny Rogers (“the gambler”) to have a good time.

Here then is my guide – good for a long weekend getaway, but certainly expandable to a longer stay – designed to reflect our experiences, and also to touch on some of the most obvious touchpoints for short-stay visitors:

Pro sports

Sin City has quickly become Win City with the NFL Raiders and NHL Golden Knights now mainstays on the scene. We caught the latter playing Calgary, and while plenty of Flames Jerseys were in evidence at T-Mobile Arena, it was definitely a home crowd (not a given in the franchise’s early days) who are fully committed to the team and the boisterous experience on offer (drummers, mascots, inflatable castles on ice, etc.) An unlikely tradition comes during the national anthem as 17,500 fans belt out the team’s name at ear-splitting volume in synch with the line: “… gave proof through the KNIGHT! that our flag was still there.” And why not? The Knights are Stanley Cup champions! Games are easy to get to with the arena located just off the Strip beside the Park MGM hotel.

Following hockey’s arrival in town in 2017, Vegas welcomed the football Raiders from Oakland in 2020, playing at the impressive new Allegiant Stadium, a short Uber from the Strip. While not yet achieving the success of their hockey cousins, the team is still capable of dropping 63 points on an opponent (a franchise record) like they did when we attended. And even with a night game, we still had time to get to the airport in time to catch the Rouge redeye back home to Toronto.

Tip: Leave big bags/purses or backpacks at the hotel – they are not allowed in stadium and must be checked (at a cost).

While there is no NBA team in Las Vegas, that eventuality is considered by most to be inevitable in the future, and in the meantime the Las Vegas Aces compete in the WNBA (we would have required a fourth night for that).

And though our timing was off, Vegas has also hit the jackpot for signature sporting events like Formula One racing (the inaugural event took place in November and returns Nov. 21-23, 2024), and the upcoming Super Bowl (Feb. 11). As for the NFL championship, David Han, Canada’s sr. account rep. for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, once enthused, “It is probably going to be the biggest event this planet has ever seen. It’s more than the Super Bowl – it’s the Super Bowl in Las Vegas!”

The Sphere

In a destination of big, shiny, and new, The Sphere is the latest attraction to dazzle residents and visitors alike. A next-gen entertainment venue, it is said to be the world’s largest spherical structure with an Exosphere that consists of approximately 1.2 million LED pucks, spaced eight inches apart, making it the largest LED screen and an ongoing piece of ever-changing art on the skyline. Each puck contains 48 individual LED diodes, with each diode capable of displaying 256 million different colours, prompting it to be called “living architecture.”

The venue officially opened on Sept. 29 with a concert by U2 (the band remains in residence), with other concerts and events on the ongoing schedule. In between are showings several times daily of the sensational “Postcard from Earth,” a multi-sensory cinematic history of the planet directed by Darren Aronofsky, shot in 18k resolution specially for The Sphere’s 15,000 sq. m. interior video screen, wrapped around in 270 degrees, and featuring climate control (blowing breeze) and shaking seat. It’s like an enhanced 2024 version of Ontario Place’s inaugural IMAX films, or “Soarin’” at Disney.

The two-hour experience also enables guests to engage in a number of interactive exhibits in the Atrium before the film (where drinks and cocktails can also be purchased).

Tip: Arrive early, the lines are shockingly long (though move quicker than one would expect). Tickets must be reserved in advance; Hotel packages including The Sphere are available at the adjacent Venetian hotel.

Entertainment

 From concerts to magicians and comedians, and even performances that defy description, like the Blue Man Group, evening stage shows are part of the fabric of The Strip – not least Cirque du Soleil, which boasts no less than seven separate productions in Las Vegas. We attended “O” at the Bellagio, which is consistently one of the mostly highly rated. Based around water (a play on “eau” in French if that never clicked in), the experience is described as “a tapestry of creativity, surrealism, and romantic theatre (where) the grace of water and the idea of infinity inspire world-class divers, synchronized swimmers, and acrobats to create an experience that is simply magnificent” – or “magnifique” to stay in the spirit of the Quebec-based troupe.

AREA15

Located a short drive from the Strip, AREA15 (not to be confused with Nevada’s alien-oriented Area 51, though signs playfully proclaim “This area does not exist”) is an award-winning entertainment venue featuring immersive activities like ziplining, simulated golf, (not simulated) axe throwing, escape room, and much more, along with food, bars, cafés, quirky retail shops, an arcade, and a movie theatre. Timeout has called it the “the most innovative venue in the US.”

Foremost among the options is Omega Mart, the newest interactive experience from Santa Fe’s groundbreaking art collective, Meow Wolf. Featuring unique and unusual work created entirely by international and local artists, the installation mimics a convenience store where any can of soup or sliver or sushi on display may prompt a unique guest experience.

“When a phone rings, we want you to answer; if there’s a door, walk through it,” Michael Duffield of Meow says, explaining that the venue is best described as an “immersive, interactive art exhibit in the prism of an Omega Mart store.”

Indeed, there are “portals,” like walk-in freezers or a janitor’s closet, that make Omega Mart as much a fun house as an art gallery. And not limited to convenience store contrivances, some of the portals lead to a “factory” in the back – a space that has been “touched” by 328 artists.

“I think seeing a tattooed chicken, and then ending up here (in the factory) is a kind of cool adventure,” says Duffield. “It goes from the silly to the sublime.”

Omega Mart also offers VIP guided tours and offers scavenger hunts for groups.

Dining

Like everything else, dining in Las Vegas is a smorgasbord of options and experiences – ranging from extravagant food courts (like the one in Resorts World) to a who’s who of celebrity chef restaurants offering the latest and greatest in culinary adventures.

Recommended: FUHU Las Vegas (also in Resorts World) offers a high-energy, experiential vibe based on contemporary Asian cuisine and elevated mixology. The venue’s vibrant, multi-dimensional design features retro touches and modern, Chinese-inspired details, and a lush indoor-outdoor dining room and patio available for all-day dining. The menu features a wide variety of Asian-inspired dishes, including seafood, steak, and sushi, plus specialty cocktails and sake.

Buffet

Sadly, the days of the cheap and cheerful Vegas buffet are long gone, but the tradition continues in accordance with the city’s new aura of utter opulence. There are dozens from which to choose, including at most of the major casino-resorts.

For our part, we bellied up to the Buffet at Wynn Las Vegas, considered by some the most attractive of the all-you-can-eats with its new entrance adorned by palm trees imported from Florida.

Inside, there are 16 live-action cooking kitchens and an updated menu of 120 dishes that check off almost every food category (as well as dessert), including a new eggs Benedict station, and both plated and self-serve offerings are available.

There are separate seatings for brunch ($54.99 p.p. plus tax) and the Daily Seafood Gourmet Dinner ($74.99) with patrons permitted “up to two hours of limitless indulgence.” Endless pour beverage packages are also available at an additional cost.

Conclusion: Worth every penny (including for a subsequent membership in Weight Watchers).

A pub?

Paris, Venice, and New York are among the destinations represented along the Strip; for London or Dublin, a trip to Flight Club will happily do the trick. The venue is a rare pub along the Strip (located in Grand Canal Shoppes across from Treasure Island – use the Sand Avenue Bridge entrance), but one with a sharp focus: darts. Guests can play a series of provided games (with electronic scoring) for US$20/hr. Tapas style-food and drinks are extra. Playing isn’t required and a large carousel bar adds to the ambiance. Reservations are suggested online at flightclubdartsusa.com.

Hotel-hopping

Hotel-hopping in Vegas is like window shopping – an activity where you don’t have to buy, but are happy – amazed, gobsmacked, bewildered? – just to look. With this in mind, we checked out two new resort/hotels that are certainly worth the trip:

The Fontainebleau

After years (decades) of deliberations and delays, the shimmering 67-storey Fontainebleau opened in mid December with the distinction of now being the tallest hotel in the city’s glittery resort corridor. With a cost of $3.7 billion, the expansive property features 1,300 slot machines, 128 gambling tables, and a total of 36 first-to-market concepts from acclaimed chefs and restaurateur partners including Evan Funke, Masa Ito, David Grutman, David “Papi” Einhorn, and Alan Yau – as well as world-class shopping, seven pools, lavish spa, and a LIV nightclub.

Based on a premise of “timeless elegance,” the resort boasts a bowtie theme that pays homage to the standard neckwear of Morris Lapidus, architect of the Miami resort that opened in 1954.

Resorts World International

Until the Fontainebleau came along, RWI had been the newest kid on the block on The Strip – specifically its north end, which has now been totally transformed by the two neighbouring resorts. Resorts World is three hotels in one resort – a four-star Hilton (1,700 rooms) and five-star Conrad (1,500) and Crockfords (332 rooms, part of Hilton LXR), the latter brand imported from London and described as an ultimate ultra-luxury property that features a more curated, personalized experience for guests.

On our tour, RWI’s Cathy Vhu broke down the hotels – which are separate, but feed into the shared casino, shopping, dining, theatre, and pool/spa areas – as business class (Hilton), first class (Conrad), and private jet (Crockfords). Notably, the gaming area, unlike most in Vegas, is bright and airy, with Vhu stating, “We wanted to stay away from dark and stuffy.”

A destination unto itself, the US$4.3 billion Resorts World International – packed with cowfolk for Rodeo World 2023 when we were there – is set on 35 hectares (site of the former Stardust) with plenty of space still to be developed, including an outdoor area that will host music festivals by later this year.

Since opening in 2021, Zhu says more and more people are visiting Vegas for entertainment, like concerts, and mega events like Rodeo World, as well as its glorious food. Or simply to relax.

And while she concedes that gambling is still synonymous with the city, for the multitudes now coming for other things, it’s something that “just happens to be there.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Travel Booking Innovator Joyned Secures $8 Million in Series A Funding Round

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TRAVELNEWSHUB.comJoyned, an award-winning travel tech startup with an innovative social revenue technology platform, has just announced the completion of an $8 million Series A funding round. The funds raised will fuel Joyned’s mission to become a global growth engine for travel and hospitality brands.

The round was led by Reach Markets, an Australian private equity and financial services company. Sentor Investments, a private investment firm based in Australia, Velocity Ventures, a Singaporean investment fund focused on investing in innovative solutions in the tourism and hospitality sectors, and Lucerne Investment Partners, an Australian private investment group also participated.

Joyned enables end-users to discuss and book trips together directly on the website, making travel booking seamless and collaborative. This can be done anonymously, without registration, from a secure, private online space. The solution provides a cross-website, live experience for customers, at the same time empowering travel sites to own their shoppers’ natural social engagements and significantly increasing their conversion rates.

Joyned’s AI-based social revenue platform identifies critical data such as price perception and sentiment analysis, giving travel sites access to a comprehensive overview of the customer booking journey, which then allows them to offer users personally tailored deals.

With clients reporting increases across a wide range of metrics (KPIs), such as conversion rates, average transaction size, organic traffic, and more, Joyned generates remarkable improvements in the business performance of travel sites. By using its social revenue platform, the average booking value of users grows by an impressive 25%, and the conversion rate increases fourfold.

Commenting on the funding round, Joyned CEO, Jonathan Abraham, said: “The platform we have developed addresses the travelers’ need to experience the holiday booking process together. We are the first to bridge the gap between users’ desire for shared experiences and the possibility of doing so. Together with our partners, we are making a significant difference to the global hospitality industry, which is expected to roll over $4.6 trillion by the end of the year. The power of our solution is evidenced by the agreements we have signed with the world’s leading travel brands and the impact the solution has had on their businesses. We are proud of the support we received from leading funds joining our journey.”

Jonathan Cocks, Partner, Velocity Ventures added: “Joyned’s innovative approach to collaborative travel booking experiences and its ability to drive engagement and conversions make it a standout player in the market. This investment will help catalyse Joyned’s expansion efforts and create lasting value for both customers and stakeholders.”

Joyned has made significant strides in its global expansion with commercial agreements with dozens of international travel brands, including a strategic commercial agreement with Amadeus, the world’s leading travel technology provider, OYO Vacation Homes, one of Europe’s leading holiday home rental companies, and TravelUp, the UK’s leading travel arrangements company. The capital raised will be used for product development, consolidating growth in international markets as well as business development and driving sales and growth processes in new verticals.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News