Global Travel News

Senegal Becomes First African Nation to Sign Code for the Protection of Tourists

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Senegal Becomes First African Nation to Sign Code for the Protection of Tourists - TRAVELINDEXDakar, Senegal, November 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Senegal has taken a pioneering step as the first African nation to sign the International Code for the Protection of Tourists, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring the safety and rights of travellers in the post-COVID era.

At the 25th General Assembly held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary General UNWTO extended his warm congratulations to the West African nation and several others for their commitment to the International Code for the Protection of Tourists (ICPT). The ICPT is a groundbreaking international legal framework that aims to rebuild consumer confidence in the travel industry and create a more equitable balance of responsibilities among tourism stakeholders.

The Ambassador of Senegal to Spain H.E Mariame Sy signed on behalf of the country.

Addressing the assembly, Mr. Pololikashvili highlighted the essence of a harmonized international legal framework in restoring trust among travellers. He stressed the necessity of clear, transparent, and efficient frameworks to safeguard tourists as consumers, asserting that the ICPT would deliver precisely that.

“This is a landmark first,” Mr. Pololikashvili declared, emphasising the uniqueness of the ICPT as a legal instrument created by UNWTO. Its primary objective is to ensure the protection of tourists and their consumer rights. By doing so, it aims to boost confidence within the tourism sector.

The success of the ICPT, as Mr. Pololikashvili underlined, depends on governments worldwide actively adhering to its provisions. He commended eight countries, Argentina, Brazil, Lebanon, Lithuania, Portugal, Senegal, Uruguay, and Venezuela, for taking the pioneering step of adhering to the code and hoped they would serve as exemplars for other nations.

“Your leadership is essential for addressing some of the biggest challenges that our sector is facing. It means we are placing the wellbeing of the tourists at the heart of what we do,” the Secretary General maintained.

Mr. Pololikashvili also stressed the essential role of leadership in addressing the challenges that the tourism sector is currently facing. Placing the well-being of tourists at the heart of their efforts, he urged nations to work collaboratively to ensure a better recovery for the industry.

The International Code for the Protection of Tourists (ICPT) sets forth a comprehensive set of international standards for the protection of tourists in emergency situations. Furthermore, it addresses consumer rights of tourists in a post-COVID-19 world. The code builds upon the work done by UNWTO and has been adapted to the unique circumstances created by the ongoing pandemic. It offers a coordinated approach to assisting international tourists during emergency situations, with the ultimate goal of fostering a safer and more secure environment for travelers.

The adherence of nations to the ICPT represents a significant step forward in ensuring that the tourism industry emerges from the challenges of the pandemic more resilient and responsive to the needs of tourists worldwide.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Shakes Up Financing for Tourism Climate Action with UN NetZero Facility

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UNWTO Shakes Up Financing for Tourism Climate Action with UN NetZero Facility - TRAVELINDEXGeneva, Switzerland, November 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), in joint collaboration with NOAH Regen, has taken a further step forward in rethinking tourism financing with the launch of the UN NetZero Facility and Re-PLANET Capital Fund Ecosystem. The launch took place on 14 November 2023 at the United Nations Headquarters, Geneva, marking a pivotal moment in the global campaign against climate change following the adoption of the Paris Agreement by 196 parties.

A new era of finance governance

The UN NetZero Facility and Re-PLANET Capital Fund Ecosystem aspire to foster a new era of global finance governance. This transformative initiative aims to unlock carbon value, incorporating concepts such as Blue Carbon and circular business models. The ecosystem is dedicated to catalysing positive change in the Blue and Green Economy sectors, transforming regeneration into not just an ecological necessity but also a profitable endeavour.

Tourism’s transformation to low-carbon operations is our compass, let’s make Net Zero our destination by 2050 – a journey for prosperity and a healthy Earth

Key highlights of the framework include:

  • Blended Financial Ecosystem: A collaborative approach that integrates diverse funding sources, providing a solid foundation to address pressing climate challenges.
  • Blockchain Technology: Utilizing energy-efficient blockchain technology for transparent fund raising and transfer, ensuring real-time tracking and accountability.
  • Transparency and Accountability: Committed to unparalleled transparency, accountability, and auditability, ensuring the traceability of funds from inception to implementation.

Announcing the launch

The Director-General of the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG) Tatiana Valovaya said: “The UN NetZero Facility is designed to resonate with the 2030 Agenda which reflects the interconnectedness between human well-being and the health of the planet.”

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “Tourism’s transformation to low-carbon operations is our compass, let’s make Net Zero our destination by 2050 – a journey for prosperity and a healthy Earth.”

Frederic Degret, CEO of Noah adds: “We stand at a pivotal moment. The Re’planet Capital Fund, in compliance with Article 9 of SFDR, is not just a fund; it’s a catalyst for change, empowering investors to drive sustainable growth.”

Blended finance model

UNWTO’s Multi-Partners Trust Fund, within the UN system, will offer advisory services and grants to accelerate global progress toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions. The Facility will operate on a blended finance model and is set to leverage investments to transition toward building a climate-conscious economy.

The UN NetZero Facility and Re-PLANET Capital Fund Ecosystem will address some of the most capital-intensive climate issues, such as carbon credit quality and integrity, regulatory and market dynamics, and the monetization of sovereign nature-based and carbon credits.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BACK IN BLACK: The latest Black Friday travel offers

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Black Friday – the day after US Thanksgiving – has become arguably the biggest shopping day of the year (surpassing Boxing Day), and many travel suppliers are eager to hop on the bandwagon (or airplane, coach, or cruise ship) too with a host of great deals for consumers, some just for the day, others a little longer. (Some even open to agents early). Here’s a round-up of some of the offers we’ve found to make wading through the bargain bin next Friday (November 24) a little easier.

Transat

Transat and Air Transat’s Black Friday mega sale (started Nov. 14) features up to $1,000 off packages for two people and up to 100,000 roundtrip flights on sale. The sale applies to flights to Europe, the South, the US and elsewhere in Canada, as well as South and Europe packages. The offer is valid on individual bookings made by Nov. 26 for travel before June 30, 2024. Conditions apply. Sample rates include the Grand Muthu Cayo Santa Maria 4* (Santa Clara, Cuba) starting at $899 (from Ontario) and flights to Orlando starting at $297 from Montreal or $335 from Quebec City. Plus, travel advisors get 5X BONBON per booking, which means $5 per flight and $25 per package.

Sunwing

For bookings made Canadian gateways across the country by Nov. 19, Sunwing Vacations’ Black Friday Sale places a spotlight on Mexico with savings of up to $1,300 in savings per couple. Already in effect, the sale applies to a range of properties in select destinations including Cancun, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta, for travel between Dec. 14 and April 30, 2024. Some terms and conditions.

Globus family of brands

The Globus family of brands unveiled ‘12 days of Black Friday’ deals with over a dozen ways to find “big savings” on vacations across the globe this week. Globus deals include up to $1,300/couple on tours while, Avalon Waterways also offers include $700 off, plus free air and gratuities on select cruises. Booking deadlines vary but are generally Nov. 28 for Globus and the end of the year for Avalon. Check the website.

TravCorp

TravCorp brands are offering varying deals on select 2024 itineraries for Black Friday: Trafalgar up to 15% (booked by Dec. 5), Contiki up to 25% (by Nov. 20), and Insight up to 15% (by dec. 5).

Collette

Travel advisors get early access to Collette’s Black Friday sale for 2023 with savings off up to 20% on tours booked through Nov. 19. Offer code TRAVEL23 must be used at the time of booking. The wider sale continues through Nov. 28 for travel in 2024 and through Jan. April 20, 2025.

G Adventures

The tour operator’s month-long Cyber Sale continues until Nov. 30 with up to 30% off departures through the end of April, 2024.

Intrepid

Clients can save up to 20% on trips to more than 100 destinations when booked between Nov. 20 and Dec. 4.

Rocky Mountaineer

A first-ever Black Friday sale from Rocky Mountaineer offers couples up to $2,000 off on US routes and $1,500 on Canadian ones, for travel dates of six or more nights in 2024. Visit rockymountaineer.com/promotions for details. The offer is in effect until Dec. 4.

Karisma Hotels & Resorts

Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ Black Friday Sale offers savings of up to 70% and $1,000 in resort credits on stays at properties in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Belize. Available for booking through Dec. 7 for travel all the way through Jan. 2, 2026, brands and hotels include Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts (photo below), Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resorts, Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye, Belize, Azul Beach Resorts, and Karisma Villas. Karisma Insider members can also revel in additional discounts.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts

Viva Resorts by Wyndham

Viva Resorts by Wyndham’s BlackFriday/Cyber Week features a ‘Buy One, Get One Free’ offer enabling a second guest stays for free when accompanied by a full-paying adult, based on double occupancy. The offer is valid at participating Viva Resorts by Wyndham for travel throughout the entire year of 2024. (Excludes Viva Dominicus Beach Wyndham and Viva Dominicus Palace Wyndham). Pre-sale access is available through Nov. 16.

Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts rings in the holiday season Black Friday savings of up to 20% off at Royalton Luxury Resorts, Royalton CHIC Resorts, Hideaway at Royalton Resorts, Planet Hollywood Beach Resorts and Mystique by Royalton brands. Bookings must be made by Dec. 1 for travel through Dec. 23.

NCL

Touted as its best deal of the year, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Black Friday Sale provides travellers 50% off all cruises on all ships, including the recently announced Norwegian Aqua, which makes its debut in 2025. In addition, the promotion can be combined with the Company’s ‘Free at Sea’ where travelers can choose up to six free perks including: unlimited open bar, roundtrip airfare for the second guest, specialty dining, shore excursion credits, Wi-Fi, and discounted rates for the 3rd and 4th guest.

Quark Expeditions

Polar adventure specialist Quark Expeditions’ Black Friday Sale is in effect through Nov. 27 and offers up to 50% on select Antarctic 2023/24 voyages and 40% on Arctic 2024 voyages. An additional 10% savings on Arctic 24 and Antarctic 24/25 voyages is available for clients paying in full at time of booking. Other sales features include a free cabin upgrade on select Antarctic 24/25 departures, and up to 30% on all other seasons. Remaining berths for the voyages are expected to sell out fast.

American Queen Voyages

AQV travellers can save up to US$2,500 per stateroom plus recieve roundtrip air on select 2024 voyages when sailing on American Queen, American Countess and American Empress on the Lower Mississippi, Upper Mississippi, Ohio, Snake and Columbia rivers. Deals, available Nov. 22-27 for select 2024 voyages, can be found on the special offers page at aqvoyages.com.

Le Boat

Le Boat, a leading provider of private, boating experiences, is offering Black Friday savings of up to 25% on France boat rental vacations and 20% on Canadian rentals (Rideau Canal, Trent-Severan Waterway). Applicable to new rentals of seven or more nights with travel dates in 2024, the offer must be booked by Nov. 28. Visit www.leboat.com/deals.

Oceania Cruises

Dubbed its ‘Best-Ever Black Friday Sale,’ Oceania Cruises is offering savings of up to US$5,400 per stateroom on more than 100 global voyages in 2024. The limited-time offer is valid on bookings made by Dec. 5. Itineraries range from seven to 34 days across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America.

Variety Cruises

Boutique cruise company Variety Cruises’ Black Friday sales offers discounts up to 60% or no SGL supplement, valid on select itineraries in the Seychelles, Tahiti, Cape Verde, West Africa and Greece. Rates are valid on bookings made Nov. 17-30. Use the code “2023 BLACK FRIDAY” when emailing requests to reservations@varietycruises.com.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA Annual Summit 2024 is Going to Macao

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PATA Annual Summit 2024 is Going to Macao - VISITMACAO.orgMacao, Macao SAR, November 15, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced that the bid for hosting the PATA Annual Summit 2024 has been awarded to the Macao Government Tourism Office. This prestigious annual event will be supported by SJM Resorts, S.A. and will be held from May 15 – 17, 2024 at the Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau. The event is set to bring together international thought leaders, industry shapers and senior decision-makers who are professionally engaged in driving tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region.

The extensive programme, comprised of plenary sessions, breakout sessions, the PATA Executive Board and Board meetings, and Annual General Meeting, will provide a platform for PATA’s public and private sector members and partners, and most importantly PATA Chapters and PATA Youth from around the world to discuss the challenges, issues and opportunities facing the industry as it looks towards the responsible and sustainable growth, value, and quality of tourism in the region.

“All of us at PATA are excited to be returning to Macao for the PATA Annual Summit 2024 and receive first-hand updates about the significant developments in the destination since having previously organising successful PATA Travel Marts in 2010 and 2017, as well as the PATA Annual Conference in 2005,” said Mr. Semone. “The Macao Government Tourism Office has been a strong partner of PATA since 1958 and they are our major sponsor for the PATA Gold Awards for the past 28 consecutive years. Next year’s event provides Macao with the perfect opportunity to showcase their destination and the Greater Bay Area to all delegates.”

Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office, Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, said, “It is an honor for Macao to host the PATA Annual Summit 2024. PATA holds a special place in the heart of our tourism industry, and we are happy to once again be granted the opportunity to welcome delegates from near and far to meet in our city. Especially as this will be the first PATA event we host after the pandemic, allowing us to showcase to participants the current dynamic change in our destination towards more diversification for a memorable meeting in Macao.”

Macao, a special administrative region of China, harmoniously blends cosmopolitan style with a rich cultural heritage. Its historic district, known as “The Historic Centre of Macao,” is home to over 20 monuments and urban squares, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005. This district is a testament to the unique integration of Eastern and Western cultures over centuries, offering visitors the chance to explore magnificent heritages and their fascinating stories. Macao’s cultural tapestry is a result of over four centuries of coexistence and interaction between Chinese and Western influences, culminating in a distinctive cultural landscape and a wealth of intangible cultural heritage.

Macao’s intangible cultural heritage encompasses a diverse range of practices, expressions, knowledge, and skills passed down through generations. This includes oral traditions, performing arts, social customs, rituals, and the know-how behind traditional crafts. The designation of Macao as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2017 adds a powerful international branding to the city’s portfolio. As of June 2020, Macao boasts a total of 70 items recorded on the Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage, with 12 items inscribed on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Additionally, 11 items from Macao are recognized on the Representative List of National Intangible Cultural Heritage, including the likes of Cantonese Opera, Herbal Tea Brewing, Woodwork – Religious Figure Carving, and Macanese Gastronomy, showcasing the rich tapestry of traditions that make Macao a cultural crossroads.

About the Venue

The Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau celebrates the grand union of the best from East and West, emanating cross-cultural and legendary heritage. A property of SJM Resorts, S.A., this newest member of the widely recognised Lisboa brand sets a new standard for hospitality excellence. Situated in Cotai, Macao, the resort brings together world-class brands and distinguished styles of accommodation, gastronomy, retail, entertainment, and wellness indulgence, complemented by one-of-a-kind wedding, event and meeting venues. The Grand Lisboa Palace, uniting world-class excellence and visionary aesthetics in one integrated resort, will redefine travelling and leisure experiences, giving new meaning to what’s already legendary.

For more information, please visit www.PATA.org/pata-annual-summit-2024 or email events@PATA.org.

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

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Celebrate Loy Krathong at Celadon Restaurant

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Celebrate Loy Krathong at Celadon Restaurant - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comBangkok, Thailand, November 14, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Embark on a Culinary Journey this Loy Krathong at Celadon, The Sukhothai Bangkok. This Loy Krathong Day, immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Thailand with an exclusive Family Thai Set Menu at Celadon, curated by the esteemed Chef Rosarin Sriprathum. Tailored for groups of colleagues, friends, and family, this dining experience is designed to celebrate the richness of Thai cuisine and create lasting memories.

Savor the essence of Thailand through a meticulously crafted 7-course set menu:
• Crabmeat Filled, Steamed Rice Dumpling
• Grilled Thai Free-Range Chicken Skewers
• Soup Of Assorted Vegetables, Aromatic Herbs
• Grilled River Prawn
• Green Curry Thai Free-Range Chicken
• Wok-Fried Morning Glory
• Fried Rice Egg, Pork Or Chicken

Each dish is a masterpiece, carefully prepared to transport your taste buds to the heart of Thailand, offering a delightful journey from savory to sweet.

Price: THB 1,800++ per person, including a complimentary krathong.
Availability: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
As part of the festivities, guests can also revel in the captivating Sukhothai Traditional Dance performance at the chedi pond, commencing at 6:00 PM.

For reservations or more information, please contact:
Tel: 02 344 8888

Celebrate Loy Krathong with us at Celadon, where each dish tells a story, and every moment becomes a cherished memory.

About Chef Rosarin Sriprathum
The Thai Chef, Rosarin Sriprathum is at the helm of the gourmet restaurant Celadon at The Sukhothai Bangkok hotel. She began her career as a chef at the age of only 20. Since childhood, she has been enthusiastic about the subtle complexity of Thai cuisine and draws on the secrets passed down by her forebears, themselves former chefs and pastry chefs, to infuse a bold touch of originality into traditional Thai food. She joined Celadon restaurant at The Sukhothai Bangkok, where her creativity brings character to Thailand’s finest traditional food; her dishes take guests’ taste buds on a journey from the North to the South of this exotic country.

About Celadon restaurant
Celadon embodies Thai elegance and sophistication. The restaurant draws inspiration from the Sukhothai era, after which the hotel is named. Associated with art and prosperity, its elegant pavilions overlook lush gardens with a lotus pond. The Celadon’s cuisine is recognised by the Michelin Guide and is an ode to the authentic flavours of Thailand. Each dish is served in celadon ceramics as a reference to the name of the restaurant and to Thai legends: celadon stoneware was once believed to have mystical powers, causing poisoned food to change colour. Celadon is regarded as one of the finest Thai restaurants in Bangkok.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA signs MOU with International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA)

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PATA signs MOU with International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, November 13, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), becoming dedicated partners in establishing meaningful connections between the two organisations.

The MOU was signed in conjunction with the 62nd ICCA Congress in Bangkok hosted by Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). This is the second time Thailand played host to the ICCA Congress, with the first time in 2007 in Pattaya. The agreement was signed on Sunday, November 12 by PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid and ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath in the presence of the President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, PATA Chair Peter Semone and ICCA President Marta Gomes, on the first day of the ICCA Congress 2023 taking place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand.

“Our collaboration with ICCA underscores the unwavering commitment of both organizations to foster responsible and sustainable growth within the travel and tourism industry, not only in the Asia Pacific region but also on a global scale. This partnership holds great promise for the expansion of business opportunities in the region as there is important synergy between the travel and tourism industry and business events, as both relate to travel and economic impact for destination and industry players. We eagerly look forward to sharing valuable insights and best practices with them,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.

Under the MOU, both parties plan to create joint programme content designed to nurture the ‘Business Travel’ sector in the Asia Pacific region, emphasise sustainability in future activities and events, and begin cross-participation in flagship events between the Associations, among other priorities.

“ICCA is proud to sign this important MoU agreement with PATA which reinforces how closely linked our organisations are. We both share values around sustainability, education, legacy, and advocating for the global significance of international collaboration and partnership. Asia Pacific is an amazing place, culturally diverse and endlessly fascinating. It offers so much to the world in terms of travel and business. Yet it is the people here that are key to developing new opportunities, and ICCA salutes the collective energy, efficiency, and boundless desire to create unique event experiences for all,” said ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath.

ICCA is a global community and knowledge hub for the international association – and governmental – meetings industry. Founded in 1963, ICCA specialises in the international association meetings sector, offering data, education, communication channels, as well as business development and networking opportunities. Today, ICCA continues to advocate for the world of international meetings. The ICCA Association Community offers associations across the world education, connections, tools and resources to help them organise more effective and successful meetings.

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

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cut Global Emissions 7% Annually to 2030 to Maintain Paris-Agreed Global Warming Limit

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Cut Global Emissions 7% Annually to 2030 to Maintain Paris-Agreed Global Warming Limit - TRAVELINDEX - SUSTAINABLEFIRST.comGeneva, Switzerland, November 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / In the lead-up to the UN’s COP28 climate conference, the world’s largest CEO-led community committed to accelerating the net-zero transition today calls on businesses and governments to further slash global carbon emissions to meet the Paris Climate Agreement goals.

According to a report by the Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, in collaboration with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), emissions must be cut back by 7% each year from now until 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5°C, as agreed in Paris in 2015.

“The urgency and scale of the climate crisis demand immediate and coordinated action at a global level,” said Pim Valdre, Head of Climate Ambition Initiatives at the World Economic Forum. “The cost of inaction is simply too high, and our shared responsibility is to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for all.”

The report, The State of Climate Action, says that “dramatic action” is needed to close the gap. This includes shorter-term net-zero national and corporate commitments, faster deployment and funding of green technologies, and stronger global collaboration to ensure a just transition. The report follows an open letter from more than 100 CEOs and senior executives from the Alliance to world leaders ahead of COP28 urging for a phase-out of fossil fuels and a massive scale-up of renewable energy and carbon removal.

“The findings in this report are a wake-up call to the world, reaffirming that the status quo is no longer an option,” said Rich Lesser, Global Chair of Boston Consulting Group and Chief Advisor to the World Economic Forum’s Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders. “Governments, companies and other stakeholders must act in lock step to meet our ambitious climate goals. It is our collective responsibility to build a more resilient and greener future for generations to come, and we are unwavering in our mission to make that a reality.”

The Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, facilitated by the World Economic Forum, consists of more than 120 top companies from diverse industry sectors and regions, representing more than $4 trillion in total revenues and 12 million employees.

Tackling insufficient national and corporate commitments

According to the report, as of mid-2023, the share of global emissions covered by national net-zero targets exceeded 80% – up from virtually zero only a few years ago. However, only a third of global emissions are covered by net-zero targets for 2050, the estimated timeframe required to maintain a 1.5°C limit, with most national net-zero targets set for longer timelines. The shorter-term gap is even more significant, with only 20% of emissions also covered by Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) aligned to a 1.5°C ceiling.

Stronger commitments and actions are most critically needed from the 10 largest national emitters, which account for half of the gap.

On the corporate side, progress in recent years has been substantial. The total number of companies with commitments to 1.5°C science-based targets has increased more than six-fold between the end of 2020 and August 2023. However, fewer than 20% of the world’s 1,000 largest companies have set this type of target, and almost 40% have no net-zero commitment at all.

Addressing the technology and funding gap

Most green technologies required to achieve net zero exist already, but those that are or soon will be cost competitive would only cover around 55% of global emissions. Others, including “deep decarbonization” technologies – such as hydrogen, carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS), and direct air capture – are still in early stages of development and scaling too slowly. To catch up, innovation and industrial scaling need to accelerate at nearly unprecedented levels.

Among key root causes, an over $2 trillion gap in yearly climate funding remained in 2022, with critical gaps in early technologies and infrastructure: bioenergy, hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuel, CCUS and battery storage collectively received only around 2% of 2022 global mitigation funds. The gap is also twice as large in lower-income countries as in higher-income ones, with the former subject to lower capital availability and higher perceived risks.

Major course corrections needed

Several near-term priorities are put forward in the report to keep the 1.5°C limit within reach. These actions include the need to:

– Unlock bolder, more rapid national commitments and actions
– Deploy carbon pricing and border taxes, and support actions in nature, agriculture and food
– Remove obstacles to the transition, such as permitting times, supply chain risks and skill gaps
– Shift corporate focus to bolder targets and transparency for themselves and their supply chains
– Strengthen incentives to massively scale up high-impact technologies and necessary infrastructure
– Raise climate financing for the Global South, conditional on ambitious mitigation action

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Jim Thompson Fabrics Adorn Top Hotels Globally

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Jim Thompson Fabrics Adorn Top Hotels Globally - TOP25HOTELS.comBangkok, Thailand, November 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Crafting luxury one thread at a time, Jim Thompson’s exquisite fabrics have woven their magic into the very fabric of the world’s most prestigious hotels. From the serene banks of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River to the opulent suites of the global elite’s favoured establishments, these iconic textiles set the gold standard in some of the World’s 50 Best Hotels.

Setting the stage for world-class luxury, Thailand’s iconic global lifestyle brand, Jim Thompson, is delighted to reveal its integral role in enhancing the interior elegance of some of the world’s leading hotels, as celebrated by The World’s 50 Best Hotels. Establishments of repute, such as Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, The Siam, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, Cheval Blanc Paris, The Savoy – London, and One & Only Mandarina – Mexico that feature on this coveted listing have seamlessly woven the unmatched quality and design of Jim Thompson fabrics into their opulent settings and luxury offerings.

With a storied history stretching over half a century, Jim Thompson’s reputation as a leader in Thai silk remains unchallenged. Its dedication to vertically integrated craftsmanship, ranging from yarn manufacturing to designing, weaving, printing, and fabric treatment, ensures both durability and luxury in every strand. “Our expertise in creating silks as well as high-performance fabrics tailored for residential and hospitality projects while maintaining uncompromised quality and design remains at the forefront of our business,” adds Sasaya N Vesanen, Chief Commercial Officer – Home Furnishings of Jim Thompson

Through collaborative efforts across departments, Jim Thompson continuously innovates bespoke textile products which are tailored to each project’s unique design requirements. This commitment extends to their range of wallcoverings, which meet the highest safety requirements. These standards are met without compromising the luxurious nature of the designs, harmoniously merging safety and splendour.

From the storied corridors of the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, which boasts 147 years of history hosting luminaries, to the urban sanctuary that is The Siam with its historic Thai teak house, Connie’s Cottage, Jim Thompson’s fabrics grace the interiors, adding a layer of understated luxury and the riverside beauty of Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, both incorporate Jim Thompson’s touch, bringing Thai artistry and the glory of Thai silk to their global clientele. Beyond Thailand, adding to this glorious roster is Cheval Blanc in Paris, which offers a secluded retreat with panoramic city views framed by Jim Thompson fabric, while London’s iconic Savoy resonates with a century-old hospitality tradition and Jim Thompson fabrics. Meanwhile, nature takes the front seat at One & Only Mandarina in Mexico, where guests immerse themselves in Riviera Nayarit’s vibrant landscapes – transitioning from rainforests to white-sand beaches with Jim Thompson fabrics.

Building on legacy and continuous innovation, Jim Thompson’s collaborations with some of the world’s foremost architects and interior designers range from luxury hotels to private jets and super yachts. This enduring partnership with global hospitality titans solidifies Jim Thompson’s reputation as the unrivalled choice for luxurious interior textiles and wallcoverings.

About Jim Thompson
No brand spells heritage like Jim Thompson, the Thai Silk Company founded in 1951 by James H.W. Thompson, an art collector, a socialite, and an entrepreneur who has been famously recognized as the driving force behind the revival of the Thailand’s silk industry. Jim Thompson’s disappearance remains the largest mystery in South East Asia until today. 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

Calls for Enrolment for Cornell University’s Executive Women in Leadership

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Calls for Enrolment for Cornell University's Executive Women in Leadership - TOURISMAFRICA.orgJohannesburg, South Africa, November 15, 2023 / TRAVELNEWSHUB / In partnership with Africa Tourism Partners (ATP), Cornell University (USA), has made available an exclusive offer and invitation to Women in executive leadership and women in leadership to enrol for Cornell University’s two and a half-month online Executive Women and Women in Leadership certificate programmes.

To be delivered through the Cornell University’s eCornell platform, the main thrust of this programme is to drive women inclusivity across that African travel, tourism and hospitality value chain. This is one of the key outcomes of annual Africa Tourism Leadership Forum held in Botswana in 2022 and 2023 as well as a critical component of Africa Tourism Innovation Hub initiative being pursued by Africa Tourism Partners and key stakeholders.

Ultimately, the programme aims to foster leadership and professional growth for women in executive and management positions. Therefore, this special offer gives participants almost 90% discount of the University’s standard programme fees as a result of the partnership forged between the University’s and Africa Tourism Partners, mainly for the professional and executive development of African women in leadership and executive management positions.

Participants will attain Executive Women in Leadership or Women in Leadership Certificate from Cornell University with 50 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) on completion of the programme. Space is limited as the first cohort which will commence in December 2023 and January 2024 will be made available to only 35 participants per propgramme.

Core courses for the certificate programme include Power and Gender Dynamics; Developing Executive Presence for Women Leaders; Gender Bias and Negotiation Strategies; and The Network Effect. Additionally, participants may choose one (1) of the following elective courses:
• Decoding the Gender Gap in Board Membership.
• Fostering an Inclusive Climate.
• Becoming a Strategic Leader.

Cornell University offers over 290 online professional development certificate programmes and courses. These are designed for public and private sector executives, managers, entrepreneurs and start-ups in a wide variety of disciplines. Among these are, Leadership and Strategic Management, Finance and Business Performance, Business Strategy, Hospitality and Food Service Management, Data Science, Finance & Business, Hospitality Management, Marketing, Technology and more. To read more about the programme and explore other relevant certificated learning opportunities for you, colleagues and your staff, click here

To register and role for the programme, kindly contact contact Ms. Rejoice Chishamba rejoice@africatourismpartners.com or +27 81 303 7030 for enrolment form and more information.

About Africa Tourism Partners
African Tourism Partners (ATP) – www.africatourismpartners.com is a UNWTO- affiliated award-winning Pan-African tourism development and strategic destination marketing advisory firm. The firm specializes in tourism and MICE strategy formulation, investment facilitation and promotion, research, master planning and destination market development and capacity building across Africa’s travel, tourism, hospitality, aviation and golf sub-industries.

Our clients and partners include but are not limited to UNWTO, World Bank, Mastercard Foundation, NEPAD, AfCFTA, South African Tourism, Ghana Tourism Authority, Tourism KwaZulu- Natal, Rwanda Development Board, Rwanda Convention Bureau, Rwanda Chamber of Commerce, SAACI, RwandAir, SAA, Ethiopia Airlines, Tanzania Tourism Board, Kenya Tourism Board, Uganda Tourism Board, Gauteng Tourism Authority, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, Tourism Business Council of South Africa, Nigeria and more.

About the AfCFTA
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a free trade area encompassing most of Africa. It was established in 2018 by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, which has 43 parties and another 11 signatories, making it the largest free-trade area by number of member states, after the World Trade Organization, and the largest in population and geographic size, spanning 1.3 billion people across the world’s second largest continent.

The agreement founding AfCFTA was brokered by the African Union (AU) and signed by 44 of its 55 member states in Kigali, Rwanda on 21 March 2018. The proposal was set to come into force 30 days after ratification by 22 of the signatory states. On 29 April 2019, the Saharawi Republic made the 22nd deposit of instruments of ratification, bringing the agreement into force on May 30; it entered its operational phase following a summit on 7 July 2019, and officially commenced 1 January 2021. AfCFTA’s negotiations and implementation are overseen by a permanent secretariat based in Accra, Ghana.

About Cornell University and eCornell
Cornell is a privately endowed research university and a partner of the State University of New York. As the federal land-grant institution in New York State, we have a responsibility—unique within the Ivy League—to make contributions in all fields of knowledge in a manner that prioritizes public engagement to help improve the quality of life in our state, the nation, the world.

For more information about the program, registration and enquiries, please contact Ms. Rejoice Chishamba at: +27 (0) 11 318 1741 / +27 (0) 81 303 7030.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Weeva Wins Global Responsible Tourism Award for Climate Change

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(L – R) Weeva’s Julie Cheetham speaking on the Responsible Tourism panel at WTM, alongside Inge Huijbrechts, Global Sustainability Security Senior Executive for Radisson Hotel Group, Rochelle Turner, Head of Sustainability for Exodus Adventure Travels  and Shannon Guihan, Chief Sustainability Officer & Head of TreadRight for The Travel Corporation – moderated by Dr Harold Goodwin of the Responsible Tourism Partnership.

The awards champion the most progressive and innovative work in the travel and tourism industry across the world; celebrating a devotion to sustainability, positive influence, and conscious travel solutions. The awards aim to ‘unearth, acknowledge and promote good practice’ within the industry – signalling the trajectory of how the tourism industry is pursuing innovative new initiatives to combat climate change, increase biodiversity, and preserve local cultures and communities.

Read more about these globally respected awards in the Evening Standard.

Weeva is a pioneering Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform, aimed at democratising access to cutting-edge sustainability management tools for the travel and tourism industry. Over its first year of operations, Weeva has built a community of over 400 individual users around the world, who are making tangible progress to improve the sustainability of their business operations and drive lasting behavioural change within their teams.

Julie Cheetham, Co-founder and Managing Director at Weeva attended the WTM conference this week and spoke at the Responsible Tourism Programme run by renowned WTM Responsible Tourism Advisor, Harold Goodwin.

Julie commented: “What a huge honour to be acknowledged for this global award. It is humbling to know that our solutions are having a positive impact right across the world and helping our users on their individual sustainability journeys. This award is a testament to our collaborative work tackling climate change – a critical issue for our generation. We are so delighted to be recognised before touching down in London to join Harold and the Responsible Tourism Programme at WTM this week. I am grateful for a fantastic week of encouraging discussions with others who understand and support our vision for a sustainable and resilient future for travel.”

Sabre will be sponsoring the 2024 awards and were part of the international judging panel this year. Read Head of Sustainability Communications at Sabre, Tess Longfield’s report on the Global Responsible Tourism Awards on the Sabre website.  

The global award commendation follows the news that Weeva won ‘Gold’ at the regional WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards for the ‘Addressing Climate Change’ category. The WTM accolades wrap up a successful year of award wins for the start-up that celebrated its first anniversary in September. Notably, Julie Cheetham was recognised as Regenerative Change Maker of the Year at the 2023 edition of the Regenerative Travel Impact Awards.

Weeva's Julie Cheetham receiving her Regenerative Travel Changemaker of the Year award from Amanda Ho
Weeva’s Julie Cheetham receiving her “Change Maker of the Year” award from Regenerative Travel’s Amanda Ho

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News