Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: Nov. 27-Dec. 01, 2023

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In last week’s news, Porter and Transat airlines announced a special “alliance” taking advantage of their complementary networks; the latter also was also issued a strike mandate from bargaining flight attendants, though the company says not to worry yet; elsewhere, Canadian are flocking to Florida again amidst record numbers to the state; Copa Airlines announced a boost to flights from Canada; and the Airport Improvement Fee at YUL is on the rise.

NEWS

ADM Aéroports de Montréal has announced an increase in the Airport Improvement Fee (AIF) from $35 to $40 for passengers departing from YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, effective March 1, 2024. The airport says all revenues from the AIF will be used to fund infrastructure and facility upgrades to accommodate growth and enhance the quality and experience of airport users, as YUL continues to record the largest increase in passenger traffic among major Canadian airports.

Amid what the company characterizes as “cordial and respectable” bargaining, Transat says it is confident that agreement will be made with its flight attendants, who have voted to strike as early as Jan. 3, 2024. The union representing 2,100 flight attendants at Air Transat says workers voted overwhelmingly to approve a strike if they cannot reach a new contract with the airline.

The first commercial airliner to cross the Atlantic on a purely high-fat, low-emissions fuel flew last week from London to New York in a step toward achieving what supporters called “jet zero.” The Virgin Atlantic Boeing 787 flight was powered without using fossil fuels, relying on so-called sustainable aviation fuel made up largely of tallow and other waste fats.

BY THE NUMBERS

Florida has set a visitations record in the third quarter of 2023, with an estimated total of 35.1 million people arriving in the Sunshine State between July and September 2023. Visitations were comprised of 32.2 million domestic visitors, 2.2 million overseas travellers and 666,000 Canadians. The number of overseas and Canadian visitors in 2023 increased 19.3% and 60.3% respectively from the same period in 2022. The total percentage increase of all visitors is at 0.7% from the first nine months of 2022.

AIR

Citing “highly complementary” route networks, Air Transat and Porter Airlines are creating a joint venture “alliance” that the companies say will transform the current Canadian aviation competitive landscape. To be implemented gradually in 2024, the arrangement will extend the airlines’ existing code-sharing agreement to give travellers access to a broader network through enhanced commercial collaboration and optimization. The feeder network strategy is designed to facilitate the acceleration of both airlines’ expansion in their respective markets: domestic and transborder short- and medium-haul for Porter, and international medium- and long-haul for Air Transat.

Air Canada has earned two honours in this year’s federal Employment Equity Achievement Awards: the Outstanding Commitment to Employment Equity award, recognizing Air Canada’s holistic strategy premised on the CARE approach encompassing community outreach, accountability, representation, engagement and belonging. And the Sector Distinction award recognizes that Air Canada is at the forefront of elevating under-represented peoples within the airline sector through initiatives such as its All-Black Flight to celebrate Black History Month, and others.

Inaugural flights: Porter Airlines further expanded its Florida offering from Eastern Canada with flights from Toronto Pearson and Ottawa to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) for the first time on Thursday (Nov. 30). And Lynx took flight to the Fort Myers from YYZ on Friday (Dec. 1). The low-coast airline will operate four flights per week between the cities on new Boeing 737 aircraft.

DEALS

AmaWaterways has a ‘2-for-1 Land Package’ offer for guests reserving a full six- or eight-night land package in conjunction with select 2024 and 2025 seven-night river cruises in Vietnam and Cambodia. Guests reserving select ‘Charms of the Mekong’ or ‘Riches of the Mekong’ itineraries are able to take advantage of this offer until Dec. 31. It can be combined with Referral Savings, Loyalty Benefits and the Future Cruise Benefit Program. Guests not opting for the 2-for-1 Land Package offer may take advantage of 20% Savings on the cruise-only portion on select dates.

Crystal and Abercrombie & Kent have teamed up for a unique new offer: Through Dec. 31, guests who book a Crystal cruise will save 25% on a select Tailor Made luxury safari journey – by land or sea – with Abercrombie & Kent.

TOURS

To complement its previously announced year-round flights to Morocco from Montreal starting next June, Transat has launched a suite of packages, hotels, tours, and excursions in the north African country. The offerings are designed to highlight the country’s unique cultural and historical richness, says Transat Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Joe Adamo, who adds, “Travelling is much more than a simple trip, it is an adventure that broadens our horizons.”

TTC Tour Brands has announced a new itinerary from Insight Vacations for 2024 plus new Make Travel Matter experiences, focused on culinary and active adventures across Canada and the US.  With these new additions Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Costsaver, and Luxury Gold are zeroing in on more local focused experiences and now have at least one Make Travel Matter experience across 100% of their North American itineraries. In 2024, Insight’s new “Yellowstone Discovery” tour explores Montana’s Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks over the course of seven days. Guests on this itinerary will stay centrally located within the park at the Yellowstone National Park Lodge, allowing for easy access to all the park’s sites while discovering Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and more.

HOTELS

W Hotel

Now open, the W Hotel Edinburgh (photo) is the hotel brand’s debut property in Scotland. Located in the heart of the St James Quarter, the 12-storey structure symbolizes the festival spirit of Edinburgh through the unique exterior façade and features a lively destination bar, chef’s table, and outdoor rooftop terrace offering guests and locals 360-degree panoramic views of the historic skyline.

Relais & Châteaux has added 27 new members to its list of unique hotels and restaurants for 2023 and two of them are Canadian: pioneering Fogo Island Inn (Newfoundland), and Restaurant La Tanière3 (Rue Saint-Pierre, Old Quebec). Established in 1954, the R&C consists of 580 establishments in 65 countries that are owned and operated by independent entrepreneurs (most often families) “who are passionate about their craft and deeply committed to forging warm, lasting relationships with their guests.”

RESORTS

Karisma Hotels & Resorts will convert the Azul Beach Resort Negril in Jamaica into an adults-only property effective Jan. 7. The property will debut new programming and amenities specifically designed for adults, upgraded spa services, new wedding packages, and more.

A multi-property collaboration with Be Live Hotels will mark the growth of the Sunscape Resorts & Spas brand in the Caribbean, expanding the Inclusive Collection portfolio by nearly 2,000 rooms. Two Be Live Hotels properties are in the process of being renovated and transformed into Sunscape Resorts & Spas, with both Dominican Republic properties expected to open Jan. 15, 2024. Sunscape Coco Punta Cana is located Bavaro Beach while Sunscape Dominicus La Romana is set along the beach at Playa Dominicus, Bayahibe, with close proximity to Saona Island, Catalina Island and Altos de Chavón.

CRUISE

Over seven years in the making, including 900 days of construction, Royal Caribbean has welcomed Icon of the Seas to its fleet in gala hand-over ceremony from Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. The ship will now sail to from Turku to Cadiz, Spain, where the cruise line for finishing touches before it heads to Miami where it will debut in January.

Travellers can now book Norwegian Aqua’s first voyages to the Caribbean with seven-day itineraries departing from Port Canaveral, Fla. Set to debut in April, 2025, voyages include calls to island destinations of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas. The ship will feature the world’s first hybrid coast, along with a digital sports complex and NCL’s first three-bedroom duplex suites.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

In Scotland, The Gin Spa, located in Merchant City, Glasgow, claims to be the first-ever gin-inspired botanical day spa. The Gin Spa combines a detailed understanding of botanical ingredients with indulgent, bespoke spa treatments for “a rich, unique experience unlike any other.”

FAMS & INCENTIVES

Riviera River Cruises is offering a new incentive for travel advisors through the month of December. Agents can earn a free FAM cabin on any 2024 cruise up to eight days – normally US$499 p.p. – by booking two cabins on a 2025 departure. Meanwhile, Riviera’s US$500 p.p. discount on 2024 or 2025 river cruises from eight to 15 days, including exclusive departures for solo travellers, has been extended.

Agents completing the New York City Tourism + Conventions Travel Trade Academy by Jan. 5 have a chance to win a pair of airline tickets to the city from Porter. Once you have received your certificate of completion, send it to canada-trade@nyctourism.com to be entered into the prize draw. To enrol, click HERE.

EVENTS

Disney Canada’s Hayden Yates, Marlie Morrison and Jeff van Langeveld, International VP of Sales and Marketing for Disney Destinations

Disney Canada invited close to 350 travel advisors to a festive event in Toronto last week simply to ramp up the holiday spirit. “The big announcement is, there is no announcement, we’re just here to say thanks,” laughed Disney’s Canada’s Travel Industry Sales and Marketing Director, Hayden Yates, while Managing Director Marlie Morrison, added, “We know we’re not the simplest vacation, we can be complex, so thanks for that!” Agents were wined (well, hot chocolate and cider), dined, and treated to the Immersive Disney Animation show at Lighthouse Artspace.

TRAVELSAVERS’ Global Conference will be Sept. 24-26, 2024, at JW Marriott, Marco Island Beach Resort, Fla.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Penny Martin will be leaving her role as VP Agent Experience at The Travel Agent Next Door next August. The gregarious travel industry veteran has been with the company since its inception, working alongside Flemming Friisdahl as they built the company from scratch 10 years ago. But while Martin may be retiring from TTAND, she says “(I) hope to stay involved in the travel industry. Travel is in my blood!”

DESTINATIONS

Now underway, the 41st annual Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights promises to dazzle visitors to the Falls with 51 nights of twinkling lights and 26 nights of spectacular fireworks. Over 3 million lights are set to illuminate various tourist districts around Niagara Falls with a focus along the Niagara Parkway & Dufferin Islands, plus a host of events for all ages throughout the holiday season.

The Grand Montréal Christmas Market runs through Dec. 30, bringing with it an impressive lineup of 80 Québécois artisans and revamped festival programming. Highlights include the 70th-anniversary celebration of the Santa Claus Parade, featuring artists from Cirque du Soleil’s renowned Corteo show, as well as several choirs, folk and jazz musical performances. All of this and more await, with festivities taking place in the heart of the city at Montréal’s Festival Square in the Entertainment District.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1999, Canadian Airlines accepted Air Canada‘s $92 million buyout offer, on the table since Oct. 19, ending one of the most heated corporate takeovers in Canada.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

THERE FOR THE TAKING: The most common, and weirdest, things guests steal

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Stealing soaps or pens seems harmless for many hotel guests, however, some are so bold that they carry TVs, pianos, mattresses, or even stuffed animals out of the hotel. Wellness Heaven, a German-based luxury hotel and spa guide, asked 1,376 hotel managers which items are most commonly stolen. And the most bizarre.

In particular, the survey observed a striking difference in the theft behaviour between guests in 4-star and 5-star hotels.

The main result of the study: towels and bathrobes are stolen the most –followed by hangers, pens, and cosmetics. But hoteliers equally don’t find the likes of lightbulbs, pillows and even mattresses safe.

The following chart illustrates the extent of the problem:

4-star vs. 5-star

A total of 740 hoteliers from 4-star hotels and 636 from 5-star hotels were surveyed to determine the behaviour of thieves depending on their wealth. As it turns out, “Greed is good” seems to be a reliable motto especially for the well-heeled 5-star clientele, who prefer expensive items.

The probability of tablet computers being stolen in 5-star hotels, is six times higher in comparison to the 4-star segment. Similarly, artworks are popular objects of desire in luxury hotels (4.3x higher theft probability). TV sets (4.9x) and mattresses (5.4x) are also being stolen a lot more frequently in 5-star hotels.

This is quite astonishing: 11.8% of 5-star hotel managers mourn the loss of mattresses, while only 2.2% of 4-star hotels seem to be affected. In total, 91 hoteliers indicate the theft of mattresses in our survey, so at least that many were stolen in their hotels.

Four-star hotel guests are content with less spectacular gifts: towels and hangers tend to be in higher demand than in 5-star hotels. The typical 4-star hotel guest is especially fond of practical items such as batteries and remote controls (theft probability 2.8 and 4.4x higher, respectively).

The most bizarre stolen goods

In addition to these “ordinary” items, there is a number of spectacular outliers that suggest a brisk imagination of the delinquents:

Bathroom fittings: Highly skilled craftsmanship was required of those guests who managed to steal bathroom fixtures, the head of a rain shower, a hydromassage shower, a toilet seat, a drainpipe or even an entire sink, as reported by a Berlin hotel.

A grand piano: A hotelier from Italy: “Once I walked through the lobby, I noticed that something was missing, and soon after I learned that three unknown men in overalls had taken away the grand piano, and it never reappeared, of course.”

Room numbers: In a hotel in England a guest had unceremoniously removed the numbers from his hotel room door. “We didn’t notice until the next guest could not find his room”, the hotel director declares.

Stuffed hunting trophies: In a hotel in France, a guest was caught trying to steal a stuffed boar’s head. At a later date, he did receive this trophy: friends bought the precious piece from the hotel and gave it to him as a wedding gift.

Sauna benches: In a hotel near Salzburg, the wooden benches from a sauna were stolen. The “private sauna” was located on the terrace of a spa suite. The benches were made of fragrant pine wood, which probably stirred up the guest’s desire. Only when a subsequent guest criticized the absence of the benches (“Where should I sit in the sauna? I can’t relax while standing.”), the hotelier noticed the theft.

HiFi system: A hotel owner from Germany reports on how the entire stereo system of the spa area disappeared: Thieves had apparently dismantled the entire sound equipment overnight and loaded it in their car before they left.

Flowers: The management of a resort in the Maldives reports that it buys new flower arrangements several times a week to replace the missing ones. Maybe the demand for flowers is simply too high due to the many marriage proposals?

Thieving by nationality

When classifying the delinquents by nationality, a different picture emerges. It turns out, for example, that German and British hotel guests follow a rather boring theft behaviour: In addition to towels and bathrobes, primarily cosmetics and toiletries are in the focus.

In contrast, Austrians snitch in a more pleasure-oriented way: dishes and coffee machines appear high up in their theft ranking. It seems they cannot get enough to satisfy their thirst for coffee. For North Americans, pillows and batteries appear as the prime objects of desire.

Italians seem to prefer wine glasses as a hotel souvenir, while the hair dryer ranks high up in the Swiss ranking. The French, on the other hand, steal in a more spectacular manner: they represent the nation that is attracted mainly to TV sets and remote controls.

Dutch hotel guests see in their souvenirs above all the practical benefit: Their favourites include light bulbs and toilet paper.

Trends in hotel thievery

Comparing data with its 2019 survey on theft in hotels, Wellness Heaven reports that “Mini Fridges” have emerged as a new item of desire: 3.3% of surveyed hoteliers indicate theft of this device, leaving the mini bar not only empty, but also warm. The theft of mini fridges is 2.5x more probable in 4-star hotels.

In comparison with 2019, several items of theft are on the rise: coffee makers (6.9% -> 11.4%), mattresses (4.2% -> 6.6%) and tablet computers (12.0% -> 18.3%) have increased significantly. On the other hand, phones (4.8% -> 3.4%), cutlery (33.6% -> 27.5%) and lamps (4.3% -> 4.1%) have decreased in theft probability.

Methods

A total of 1,376 responses were evaluated with most respondents based in Europe; 740 hoteliers were surveyed in the 4-star segment, and 636 in the 5-star segment.

For more: https://www.wellness-heaven.de/wellness/study-theft-hotels/

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

KINDLING THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT IN QUEBEC

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In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Québec is truly an enchanting destination bursting with colourful and illuminated events and markets to ring in the most wonderful time of the year. Here are just a few suggestions to help make the most of the city for a December retreat that is sure kindle the Christmas spirit.

Québec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Treasure boasting cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old buildings in the upper and lower towns (take the funicular between them); visit boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops; explore museums and churches from another age; contemplate impressive frescoes; and marvel at the mighty St. Lawrence River with its majestic ice flows in winter. From quartier Petit-Champlain to Place Royale, follow the enticing aromas wafting from bistros and restaurants, taking a moment to warm up by the fire at one of the warming stations along the way.

Hotel luxury

Québec City’s historic district boasts multiple 4- and 5-star hotels, first among them the fairytale Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, which has towered high above the cliff and the St. Lawrence River since 1893. Guests will no doubt want to have drinks at Sam and dine at the Champlain restaurant before retiring to one of the impeccably renovated suites.

In the lower town, Auberge Saint-Antoine is a boutique hotel in the Old Port, right near the Petit-Champlain district. A member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux association, the hotel occupies an 18th-century building that has been impeccably preserved. Everything exudes history and refinement, with all the comfort and amenities of home.

Les Lofts du Vieux-Québec offers a breathtaking view from the dome in the St. Laurent Penthouse, and Hotel Port Royal has welcomed none other than the Rolling Stones to its Royal Suite, which occupies the top floor of a former bank and features a giant rooftop patio

And of course, nowhere is the ice as nice as the famous Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) – set to open on Jan. 4 – an ephemeral work of art built entirely of ice and snow and the only one of its kind in North America. Wander through the chapel, bedrooms, and hallways made of snow and ice, admiring the beautiful carvings, and stopping to sip ice cider in one of the ice bars. Consider staying in the Premium Deluxe Suite, which has a private hot tub and sauna.

Hôtel de Glace, Photo Dany Vachon, Destination Québec cité

Table for two

Québec City’s food scene combines French, British, North American, and Indigenous influences and is celebrated in Canada and around the world for its use of local ingredients and Boreal forest flavours. For a culinary experience not soon to be forgotten, try Chez Muffy at Auberge Saint-Antoine; the chef’s counter at Tanière3, a new Relais & Chateaux property; Chef Stéphane Modat’s Le Clan; the venerable institution, Laurie Raphaël; Restaurant La Traite for fine Indigenous cooking; and Le Saint-Amour, a monument to French cuisine.

Activities

A centrepiece of the public square, the Place D’Youville Skating Rink has reopened for the season. With brilliant lights and projections, the rink sparkles at night against Old Québec’s historic architecture. In harmony with the holiday season, decorations also enhance the atmosphere. This rink offers free entry and on-site services like skate rentals and sharpening, and with an equipped refrigeration system, skating is available until mid-March.

Other popular options include activities on the slopes (skiing at Mont-St-Anne), in the surrounding forests (dogsledding), on the ground (snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the Plains of Abraham), in the steam room (have a thermal experience at Strøm Spa), or sky high (helicopter rides over the city, Montmorency Falls and the frozen river).

Events

 Perhaps Québec’s most iconic Christmas celebration, the German Christmas Market illuminates Old Québec through Dec. 23. This event captures the grandeur of European Christmas markets, finding its suitable canvas in the historical city. Visitors can indulge in traditional German treats while exploring handmade crafts sold from traditional wooden kiosks as seen in Germany. Moreover, attendees can anticipate impromptu performances and a new festive space next to the Château Frontenac at the Marketplatz of Galeries de la Capital.

 Meanwhile, choirs and performances could surprise on any corner along the Petit-Champlain; and anyone is welcome to drop into the Chateau Frontenac to check out its famous Christmas decorations.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNBELIEVABLE AWAITS ON THE ALL-NEW DISNEY TREASURE

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Enter a world of adventure where the sea calls and you answer. Where uncharted destinations meet tropical paradise. Where the unending horizon meets days spent together filled with magic. And where every journey meets memories you’ll treasure forever.

This is the all-new Disney Treasure, the newest ship from Disney Cruise Line. Step aboard and embark into the daring tales and far-reaching realms of Disney, Pixar, Marvel and classic Disney Park attractions. Captivating entertainment, immersive spaces and delicious dining await. Chart a course for the worlds of Coco and the Avengers. Venture through jungles, ancient ruins and the depths of the sea. Get a little lost in a galaxy far, far away or in a regal, gilded palace.

This is your adventure and whether you spend the day by the pool, in the incredible kids’ clubs or adult-exclusive spaces, there’s no wrong way to explore. Because at the end of a great adventure, lies treasure. The Disney Treasure.

Sailing Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, FL beginning December 2024.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WELCOME FUN & ALL

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Welcome! Welcome! To the all-tooned-up Mickey’s Toontown at the Disneyland® Resort! With plenty of places to explore, hop, bop and say “Hi ya” to some favourite toons!

Take a one-way trip to fun on the all-new Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway attraction, and swing by their houses for some big hugs. Then, stop over at Donald’s Duck Pond to catch some playful water as it leaps and bounds around the splash pad. Hey, it’s Mickey’s Toontown—even water has fun here!

Next, check out Goofy’s How-to-Play Yard, with a spongy ground that lets little ones crawl, scooch and roam in their own ways. With all this fun, your stomach’s bound to start a-grumblin’. So, let Café Daisy serve up diner classics for purchase. From pizza to mini-doughnuts, have your pick of some scrumptious dishes for the perfect picnic in CenTOONial Park.

Grab the kiddos, grandma, gramps, your toon-loving neighbors or anyone in favour of having fun together and head to the newly re-imagined Mickey’s Toontown. Because no matter how you like to adventure, play and relax, at Mickey’s Toontown, we Welcome Fun & All.

Learn More about visiting Disneyland Resort

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Telefonica and UNWTO to Promote Digital and Sustainable Tourism

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Telefonica and UNWTO to Promote Digital and Sustainable Tourism - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, November 30, 2023 / TAVELINDEX / The collaboration agreement will run until 2026 and will focus on digital entrepreneurship, innovation, application of new technologies (big data, artificial intelligence, etc.) and talent development.

Telefónica and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) have followed through on their commitment to cooperate by signing a new collaboration framework, valid until 2026, with the aim of promoting tourism development that is more digital, sustainable and inclusive.

The United Nations’ specialized agency for tourism and Telefónica will continue to work together at the global level and will focus on three strategic axes of digital transformation: nurturing global and regional innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems; boosting technological adoption in tourism; and promoting capacity building for a more digital, sustainable and competitive tourism sector that leaves no one behind.

New projects, new scopes

In this regard, Telefónica Tech, the telecom operator’s strategic digital business unit, and the UNWTO will promote the ‘Digital Futures’ programme, which seeks to accelerate the tourism sector’s economic recovery by scaling up small and medium-sized enterprises with the incorporation of new technologies such as big data, IoT, AI, blockchain, cybersecurity and cloud-based solutions. These digital tools have the ability to transform companies and make them more competitive, sustainable and resilient, as they help them make better business decisions based on exhaustively analysed data. Such technologies also allow them to offer more personalized and competitive products and services, optimize resources, and increase the profitability of the tourism sector.

As part of an effort to identify disruptive projects that help enhance the sustainability of the sector, Wayra Hispam, Telefónica’s open innovation area that connects the entrepreneurial ecosystem around the world, is collaborating in the development of the World Tourism Organization’s Community Tourism Innovation Challenge in Colombia, with the support of the Vice-Ministry of Tourism of Colombia. Its mentoring support generates connections with the business and venture capital ecosystem, which is essential for all entrepreneurs who are working to offer innovative solutions and promote development, taking into account local communities as well as natural and cultural heritage.

Furthermore, training processes (reskilling and upskilling) will be addressed so that employees can develop and take advantage of all the potential that digitalization brings to an industry that is so important to the economy of many countries.

To this end, training cycles will be carried out on the application of technologies to tourism. These will be offered by reference stakeholders that aim to help those who are beginning to take their first steps or wish to evolve their projects. For their part, Telefónica and UNWTO will collaborate in learning initiatives through accessible content as the Tourism, Gastronomy and Hospitality 4.0 Nanodegree developed by Fundación Telefónica and CEOE through the UNWTO Digital Futures programme, focused on accelerating the economic recovery of the tourism sector through the growth of innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

About Telefónica

Telefónica is one of the world’s leading telecommunications service providers. The company offers fixed and mobile connectivity services, as well as a wide range of digital services for individuals and businesses. It is present in Europe and Latin America, where it has more than 383 million customers. Telefónica is a fully private company whose shares are listed on the continuous market of the Spanish stock exchanges and on the New York and Lima stock exchanges.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Blue Elephant Master Chef Nooror Pays Tribute to WWF Healthy Rivers Series

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Blue Elephant Master Chef Nooror Pays Tribute to WWF Healthy Rivers Series - TOP25 RESTAURANTS BANGKOK BEST RESTAURANTSBangkok, Thailand, November 30, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / In her recent appearance on Episode 2 of the Healthy Rivers Series “River of Inspiration” by WWF, Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, co-founder and director of the Blue Elephant Group, spoke about the linkages of a healthy river and one of Thailand’s most famous “Tom Yum Goong”. This collaboration has inspired Master Chef Nooror to craft a “Magical Rivers New Year’s Eve Menu” comprising Thai Rivers treasures amongst other Blue Elephant culinary gems, on New Year’s Eve for the Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant, Bangkok and Phuket.

“Only 3% of the water on our planet is fresh. Yet these precious waters are rich with surprise. All life on land is ultimately dependent on fresh water.”
– Sir David Attenborough, WWF Ambassador –

“Human food comes from nature, from rivers and canals. Because of this, we humans must preserve rivers and canals. I’m a chef who’s proud of ingredients from rivers and canals.”
– Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe –

On Sunday, 31st December 2023 from 5.30 pm, diners are invited to join Master Chef Nooror on a magical night of exquisite flavours and rich bounties of the river and show a commitment to sustainable luxury.

Some of the highlights of the “Magical Rivers New Year’s Eve Menu” comprise ‘Duo Jaeng Lon’ made from fresh pink organic lotus petals filled with Banana Prawn; ‘Auspicious Duck Laab’; ‘Foie Gras Tomato Dip’; ‘River Prawn Tom Yum Bisque’, a specially created recipe of creamy soup made from Ayutthaya River Prawn; “Ravioli Kao Soy’; ‘Hor Mok Blue Crab Curry’; and ‘Thai Wagyu Beef Salad & Grape’; and the legendary ‘Bespoken Massaman Lamb’; “Khao Yum’ amongst other flavourful selections.

The ”Magical Rivers New Year’s Eve Set Menu to be served on Sunday, 31st December 2023 from 5.30 pm to 11.00 pm is @Baht 6,800 plus plus per person.

For bookings or more information please call tel. 02 673 9353-8

About Blue Elephant
The story of Blue Elephant began as a result of the great passion for Thai food of Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, founding chef and director of the Blue Elephant Group.

Blue Elephant opened its first restaurant in Brussels, Belgium in 1980 with Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, her husband Karl Steppe, who has always been passionate about Thai culture and Thai cuisine, and their good friends and partners Chai Wayno & Somboon Insusri. Initially extremely popular among the citizens and expatriate members of Brussels, Master Chef Nooror’s Thai food soon gained its reputation in other parts of Europe, the Middle East and other countries in Asia.

From her love of cooking and of Thai cuisine and culture, Master Chef Nooror has become a staunch advocate and ambassador by promoting Thai cuisine and culture to the rest of the world. Sourcing from only the finest and premium produce from the Royal Project and from all over Thailand with emphasis on products with health benefits, Master Chef Nooror has created the most palatable, authentic and, most important of all, healthy Thai menus.

In 2002, Master Chef Nooror returned to Thailand to further explore her heritage and bring back to life forgotten recipes from bygone eras as well as to share her precious heirloom recipes handed down from generation to generation. Blue Elephant Cooking School and Restaurant Bangkok opened its doors in 2002; and the Phuket branch in 2010.

In 2006, Blue Spice Company Limited was established to manufacture and export premium spices, curry pastes and sauces amongst others under the Blue Elephant brand. Today, Blue Elephant products are available in almost 45 countries worldwide as well as in leading supermarkets throughout Thailand.

In 2020, the Blue Elephant Group celebrated 40 years of continuously achieving milestones in the culinary world both locally and overseas.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bangkok Uncovered and Beyond

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Bangkok Uncovered and Beyond V04 - TRAVELINDEX - VISITTHAILAND.netBangkok, Thailand, November 30, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Sukhothai Bangkok cordially invites you to attend a fundraising charity event, “Bangkok Uncovered & Beyond,” to support the social development projects of endangered communities in Bangkok. For the forth year of the project celebration, The Sukhothai Bangkok and its preferred partners, including the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) – Tourism Division, are planning to expand the scale of the event. Hence, the project is now called “Bangkok Uncovered & Beyond Vol.4” and this marks our fourth event since 2017.

The project has evolved from our creation of the APPEAR concept to preserve disappearing communities and cultures, making them reappear through sustainable tourism. We have partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) – Tourism Division. The Sukhothai Bangkok has collaborated in this project to promote sustainable activities within six disappearing communities while improving the livelihoods of the locals. The six endangered communities include Koh Sarn Chao, Bang Lamphu, Hua Takhe, Bang Kradi, Ban Bu, and Nang Loeng.

In addition to these six communities, we also have another communities joining in the event: Talad Noi, Hala Market at Charoenkrung 103, Klong Ladmayom Market, Taladname Song Klong in Taling Chan, Bangkok Dee Jung, Talad Mod Ta Noi and Lumpoo Community. This year, we are also open to private companies interested in showcasing their products at the event.

We anticipate an attendance of approximately 1000 guests per day over the weekends. This event represents a significant milestone, and we are committed to making it even more remarkable than before. We would like to invite you to participate in this end-of-year charity event. Not only will you have the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Bangkok’s old neighborhoods, but you will also support community social projects and experience the different traditions of twelve local communities. You can participate in a range of fascinating cultural activities, many of which are slowly being forgotten and lost in time, including:

• Creative Thai arts and crafts workshops by community artisans, such as sustainable kites made from leaf-gilded black lacquer (Lai Rod Nam), hand embroidery of Mon shawls, Mon paper crafts, and self-portrait drawing.
• Rare musical, dance, and craft performances, such as banana trunk carving, vintage stone powder flower garland (Pang Puang) creation, Mon music, and Chatree dancing.
• Learning secret recipes from community grandmas, such as golden threads and kanom Jak.
• Shopping for unique gifts or simply enjoying an endless assortment of delicious food and desserts, including Mon caramel and mung bean marzipan.
• Trying the ancient Rae Rai, bale jelly, and Thai steamed red lotus stem cake.
• Enjoying special deals with vouchers from the luxurious five-star hotel, The Sukhothai Bangkok, including room, Food & Beverage, and spa packages.
• Discovering unusual artifacts and participating in the community auction to bid on art pieces by community artists and handmade bronze knives.
• Display and showcase service and product from multiple sponsors at the event.

We are excited to announce that at the upcoming Bangkok Uncovered & Beyond Vol.4 event, all proceeds from sales will be dedicated to supporting community-driven social projects. Once event costs are covered, the entirety of the sales revenue will be directed towards the following impactful initiatives:

Children’s Library: Promoting a love for learning and literacy among the young minds of our community.
Playground: Creating a safe and vibrant space for children to play, explore, and make cherished memories.
Study Center: Providing a conducive environment for students to excel in their education.
Museum Refurbishment: Breathing new life into a local museum, preserving and showcasing our cultural heritage.

Your attendance at Bangkok Uncovered & Beyond Vol.4 on 16-17 December 2023 will not only offer you a unique and enriching experience but will also contribute significantly to the betterment of our community. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing in this collective endeavor to make a positive impact. Together, we can make a difference.

For more information about the event and to stay updated on our progress, please contact:
Chutima Limpasurat
Director of Marketing Communications
02 344 8888 or Chutima.l@sukhothai.com

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Mara Bushtops launches new Webcam to the Wild

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Mara Bushtops launches new Webcam to the Wild - VISITKENYA.comMasai Mara, Kenya, November 29, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Mara Bushtops, the only safari camp in the Maasai Mara with a substantial natural salt lick directly in front of its camp, has just launched a new webcam with high speed internet ensuring a permanent live feed from one of Kenya’s wildlife hotspots. Watch all the action right here from the comfort of your home, and please be sure to subscribe to @Bushtops on YouTube as the links can change. Sound will also be added in the coming weeks.

A steady stream of wildlife visits the salt lick throughout the day and night, still visible after sunset via infrared technology, in search of the minerals needed for healthy bones. This creates a constantly shifting nature show, as gazelle jostle with warthogs, zebra and impala, topi and buffalo. Herds of elephant can be joined by up to 40 giraffe at any given time – with predators such as leopards and lions in attendance. What a privilege to have this permanent window to the wild!

Most of the action occurs between 10AM – 4PM Kenya time (GMT +3) but viewers around the globe can also browse through the previous 12 hours of footage recorded in case they missed something.

About Bushtops

Owned and managed by the third generation Stuart family, Andy and Claudia have established three unique camps in East Africa that offer a superlative “wild luxury” experience under canvas.  Their first camp, Mara Bushtops, located in a private concession on the fringe of Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Park, overlooks a natural salt lick which attracts diverse wildlife from miles around.  Perfectly positioned along the pathway of the annual wildebeest migration, they also have two camps in Tanzania, namely Serengeti Bushtops in the northern Serengeti and Roving Bushtops, very unique mobile camp which moves seasonally between the central and southern Serengeti, in sync with the famous wildebeest migration.

Bushtops Safari Camps offer some of the most luxurious and immersive safari experiences in Africa, with a deep commitment to conservation and sustainability.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Luxe Riverfront December Escape at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel

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Luxe Riverfront December Escape at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, November 26, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Indulge in the magic of the holiday season with our exclusive ‘Luxe Riverfront December Escape’ package at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers by the Chao Phraya River. Revel in the enchanting evening with complimentary dinner and sundowner package at the iconic Siam Yacht Club restaurant to make your December unforgettable.

Book a minimum 2-night say, and treat yourself to an enchanting riverside escape.

Package Highlights:
• Room with river view guarantee include with a delectable breakfast for 2 persons
• One-time international buffet to enjoy a sumptuous dinner for two at Feast restaurant
• One-time sundowner package, savor the moment on sipping your favorite beverages and watching the sun dip below the horizon for a memorable experience by the Chao Phraya River at the iconic Siam Yacht Club.
• Complimentary rate check out at 16.00 hrs.
• Room rates start from THB 5,100++
• Package available from stay period until 17th December 2023.

‘Luxe Riverfront December Escape’ is available for book now for stay period from 3rd December to 17th December 2023. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your December unforgettable. Treat yourself to a riverside retreat and create lasting memories at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers.

To make a reservation or book now, please click visit website www.royalorchidsheraton.com

About Sheraton® Hotels & Resorts
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts makes it easy for guests to feel welcome at over 430 hotels and resorts in nearly 70 countries and territories around the world. As the most global brand within Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of extraordinary hotel brands sitting at the center of hundreds of communities around the world, Sheraton has a rich heritage in creating a sense of belonging for guests, wherever they are in the world. Sheraton is currently undergoing a major brand transformation, creating a signature community experience for the next generation of travelers and locals alike at properties across the globe. The new vision for Sheraton features intuitive design, tech-forward experiences, and upgrades to everything from public space and F&B to flexible meeting space.

Sheraton is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,700 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News