Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: Aug. 21-25, 2023

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Last week, CATO continued its crusade for industry reform in Ontario; Porter said it will match Air Canada Aeroplan points; Club Med introduced new Ontario reps; and wildfire repercussions continued in Maui and the Okanogan, while the southwestern US dealt with the opposite problem (too much rain).

NEWS

A “broken system” and “ignored” requests to the province to fix it are behind the Canadian Association of Tour Operators (CATO) campaign for a “more effective and fairer traveller protection system for Ontario’s travel industry,” which is set to come to a head at TICO’s upcoming annual general meeting in Sept. 26. CATO (and industry partner ACTA) are continuing to call for significant improvements to the funding framework of the regulatory body and for a legislated consumer contribution protection insurance system (Compensation Fund) and intend to introduce a motion at the meeting call for the improvements.

Unifor Local 114 members at the Victoria-Seattle ferry service have voted 100% in favour of taking legal strike action on Sunday, Sept. 3 if a contract cannot be reached with the company before then.

US President Joe Biden promised that the federal government will help “for as long as it takes” Maui to recover from damage caused by the deadliest US wildfire in more than a century.

The first tropical storm to hit Southern California in 84 years, Hilary brought intensifying rain to the region, with some mountain and desert areas seeing more than half an average year’s worth of rain come down in just one day, including the desert resort city of Palm Springs, which saw nearly three inches of rain in just one day.

AIR

Porter Airlines is giving Air Canada Aeroplan members an opportunity to achieve instant VIPorter loyalty status by matching their current Aeroplan membership level with an equivalent VIPorter Avid Traveller level. Once approved, members will enjoy enhanced travel benefits with their next Porter flight. Every dollar spent gives VIPorter members points redeemable for future flights and 100% credit toward status qualification on any Porter fare. Applications are assessed after submission at flyporter.com, with VIPorter account information and screenshots from Aeroplan accounts provided for review. Registration is open until Sept. 6 with full details available online.

Travellers in Quebec can now combine select Air Transat and Azul Airlines flights to destinations such as Sao Paulo and Manaus, Brazil (connecting through Orlando or Fort Lauderdale). Flights are accessible through the connectair by Air Transat platform, bringing to 12 and the number of additional destinations available in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, Central and South America, and Canada to over 280.

Air Canada customers will have the freedom and flexibility to change their travel plans when booking on aircanada.com (Canadian edition), thanks to a new partnership with travel app Hopper. For a fee, travellers can now add ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ to eligible non-refundable fare types booked on the Air Canada website.

Flair Airlines says it is launching a unique pilot training program that will see applicants placed in the cockpit of one of the company’s Boeing 737 jets within 18 months. The Edmonton-based budget carrier says its program will radically speed up the length of time it takes in Canada for new pilots to get jobs flying large commercial jets.

BY THE NUMBERS

Aug. 23 was National Cheap Flight Day marking an industry trend that typically sees airfares drop in price following the higher-priced summer travel season.
Through comprehensive travel trend monitoring of historical web site bookings, CheapOair.ca results are showing that the average cost of a domestic airline ticket in the period following Aug. 23 averages a 17% decline from the peak airfares during June and July 2023.Furthermore, the same data shows that international flight fares have decreased on average 21% when comparing travel after Aug. 23 to the summer’s fare high point.

DEALS

Early planners who book their 2023/24 Air Canada Vacations winter vacation package to Mexico and the Caribbean, and Flight & Hotel packages to Hawaii at least four months in advance, will enjoy significant savings with Air Canada Vacations’ Early Booking Bonus. Families can save $400 (for a family of four or $100 p.p.).

Through Sept. 5, Margaritaville at Sea, which offers 3-day, 2-night voyages from Port of Palm Beach, Fla., to Grand Bahama Island is offering a flash sale that allows guest to travel for as low as US$99 for a single guest in an interior stateroom. Valid on travel through April 29, 2024.

TOURS

Railbookers has unveiled a new interactive online map for its brands, Railbookers and Amtrak Vacations. The innovative tool allows users to navigate and learn more about train routes, stations, hotels, and attractions in their desired destinations worldwide. Once an itinerary is selected, the map narrows on each city destination, showing the train station, major attractions, and their proximity to the thousands of hotel options available across both brands. Hotels can then be selected for more information.

Intrepid Travel has launched an emergency appeal and committed US$50,000 through their not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, to support immediate relief efforts in Hawaii following the devastating wildfires that devastated Maui earlier this month. The Intrepid Foundation will dollar match donations to the Hawaii Wildlife Appeal, doubling the donors’ impact.

To donate, click HERE.

HOTELS

Historic Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland has been named the winner of the Art of Hospitality Award, the first category announced in advance of the inaugural The World’s 50 Best Hotels awards 2023. The award was voted for by 580 voters in The World’s 50 Best Hotels Academy, who were asked to name the property where they have received the single-best hospitality experience within the two-year voting period.

Relais & Chateaux’ Stonehaven Le Manor in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Que., will extend Le Pavillon with 17 new additional rooms, located closer to the mountain and offering a magnificent view of the Lac des Sables.

RESORTS

In partnership with Autism Double-Checked, Karisma Hotels & Resorts has introduced what it says is the world’s first-ever Autism Concierge, providing a dedicated contact for all autism-related questions and serving as an extension of an existing three-part training program. The program encourages guests travelling with a child with autism or adult guests with autism to ask about specific needs through a concierge contact found within the resort’s visitor guide. Guests looking for support as they plan their vacation can contact the Autism Concierge via email.

Club Med will debut Club Med Kirora Grand, its newest Japan ski resort, in December, adding to the chain’s roster of 20 mountain resorts throughout the Alps, Canada, and Asia. Located in Hokkaido, Japan’s internationally renowned ski destination, the untouched mountain features white powder snow and unique ski trails that features skiing until May (with 160 days of winter), along with night and off-piste skiing. The resort is a three-minute gondola ride from its sister resort Club Med Kiroro Peak and will be the brand’s sole mountain destination in Asia.

CRUISE

Viking Aton

Viking recently named its newest river ship, the Viking Aton, with a special celebration in Aswan, Egypt. Sister ship of the Viking Osiris, Aton is a state-of-the-art vessel specifically built to navigate the Nile and will sail Viking’s popular Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.

The 2025 World Cruise from MSC features an entirely new itinerary aboard MSC Magnifica. The epic 116-night journey departs from European ports – Civitavecchia/Rome, Genoa, Marseille, and Barcelona – on Jan. 4, 5, 6 and 7 2025 respectively, on its way to 50 destinations (22 of them new to the MSC World Cruise) in 21 countries. The three-month journey, will include five continents and cross three of the world’s largest oceans, sailing over 30,000 nautical miles. A highlight will be 19 days spent sailing around the Southern and Western coast of Australia.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

Through Sept. 30, 2023, travel agents who sign up and complete Rocky Mountaineer’s TRACKS Agent Training will be eligible for a chance to win monthly prizes or a grand prize of a complimentary rail journey for two on select Rocky Mountaineer routes in Canada and the US. The free training program is open to certified retail travel agents and wholesale agents/partners globally and takes most people less than an hour to complete!

EVENTS

Skal president Sue Webb (centre) is joined here by the “VoX” Rocks team: Chaymae Boucher, student volunteer, George Brown College; Colin Wood, Air Miles; Denise Graham, Kissimmee; Mike Baginski, Travel Industry Today; Jenni Berg, TTC Tour Brands; and Joanne Gellatly, George Brown College.

Skal’s Toronto chapters (and a few friends) turned out for their annual golf outing last week at Royal Ontario near Milton. Good golf (mostly), good friends and good cheer were the order of the day as close to 70 industry members joined to play and/or for the barbecue lunch. Naturally, prizes were aplenty.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Club Med has announced the appointments of Tyler Mattioli and Debbie Miller as Business Development Managers for Ontario. Mattioli joins forces with Samantha Gillingham on the territory of Ontario, with Mattioli over 10 years of tourism industry experience, as both a front-line agent with Flight Centre, Air Canada Vacations and, most recently Air New Zealand. Miller, formerly with Destination Toronto, joins Club Med Meetings & Events with over 20 years of experience in destination sales. She replaces Maria Chung, who retired on July 31.

DESTINATIONS

The road to the iconic Nova Scotia tourist destination Peggy’s Cove reopened after devastating floods last month. It’s welcome news for both visitors and a community hit hard by environmental disasters. The road closure has been hard on the area’s tourism business. The flooding was triggered by torrential thunderstorms that began July 21, and dumped months worth of rain on parts of central Nova Scotia.

The central Okanagan is facing weeks without tourism during its peak season after British Columbia’s premier imposed bans on travel to wildfire zones. The ban will be in place until Sept. 4 for hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, hostels, RV parks and campgrounds in Kelowna, West Kelowna, Kamloops, Oliver, Osoyoos, Penticton and Vernon.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1809, the first Canadian-built steamboat, “The Accommodation,” was launched on the St. Lawrence River at Montreal. Owned by the brewer and banker John Molson, it carried 10 passengers to Quebec City from Montreal on its maiden voyage, which took place at the end of October.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Michael Avni Appointed VP of Marketing at Joyned

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Michael Avni Appointed VP of Marketing at Joyned - TRAVELNEWSHUB.comAward-winning Jerusalem-based startup company Joyned has announced the appointment of Michael Avni as VP of Marketing. Avni will be responsible for the company’s global marketing strategy, including digital activities, demand generation, field marketing, sales development, vertical and product marketing, branding, external and internal communication, and more.

Avni, 49, brings rich management experience and expertise in leading global initiatives in their growth and business development stages within the fields of high tech, internet, fintech, and SaaS, as well as in corporate leadership roles in public companies. Avni began his professional journey at HP and later joined 888 as VP, responsible for identifying business opportunities that led to the company’s business development, expanding its distribution networks, and implementing its growth strategy through acquiring additional companies in the field.

In the last decade, Avni has focused on strategic and marketing consultancy for organizations, startups, and senior management, where he has leveraged his capabilities and professional experience. Collectively, the companies he has consulted have raised over $100 million. Since 2013, alongside his professional activities, Avni has also served as a director for the publicly-traded company Sumoto on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. During his tenure, the company acquired four other companies, one of which, due to his initiative, increased the parent company’s revenues by $50 million annually.

According to Avni, “My main goal is to build deep cooperation between sales, operations, and marketing teams, on which a performance-oriented marketing culture will be established, focusing on customer success, ensuring our success as well.”

Jonathan Abraham, CEO of Joyned, stated, “We are currently signing agreements with international tourism brands to integrate our solution into their booking sites. Michael’s extensive experience and knowledge will help realize the company’s significant business potential, accelerate our business growth, and help us become the de facto standard for international booking sites in a market with an annual volume of $1 trillion.”

Avni’s addition to Joyned adds to a series of recent appointments aimed at supporting the company’s growth and the implementation of its solution with dozens of global tourism brands. Among the recent agreements announced by Joyned: a strategic commercial agreement with online tourism giant Amadeus, a commercial partnership with leading destination management company NexusTours operating in 58 destinations across 16 Caribbean, Central, and North American countries, a commercial agreement with RIU Hotels, and a commercial partnership with European vacation home rental company Vacation Homes OYO.

Joyned’s solution enables social interaction on travel and tourism websites, turning the booking process into a shared experience. During site navigation or app usage, the user sends live chat invitations to friends or family members, during which everyone can view the website content, engage in discussions, and collectively make decisions about booking flights, hotels, jeep tours, excursions, and more. The enhanced process increases user conversion rates and allows the site to increase its overall revenue by an average of 10%.

Joyned was founded by Jonathan Abraham (CEO) and Michael Levinson (Product VP) and employs 25 people, most of whom work at the company’s offices in Jerusalem.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

A Trek Through Time And Culture With Avana

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Hanoi, Vietnam, August 25, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Over a decade ago Avana Retreat’s founder discovered a majestic waterfall while trekking in the mountainous region of Mai Chau in Northwestern Vietnam. This encounter was the spark that fueled the creation of the property. Understanding the importance of being in nature and with a desire to share the rich local heritage with those who ventured into the verdant countryside, the team at Avana, inspired by the owner’s first trip, have crafted trekking experiences that offer the same sense of awe and discovery that he first experienced there.

Tucked away in a relatively untouched area of Mai Chau, the roads stop when they reach Avana Retreat. From here mountain paths traversed by the ethnic Hmong people who have made their home in the hills, weave through the landscape and form the core of the ‘Adventure Trek – View from the Top’ experience.

This 8.5 hour journey, ideal for more confident trekkers, takes in more than just incomparable views of the undulating mountains, terraced fields, misty valleys and grasslands. There are visits to local villages including that of the ethnic Hmong, indigenous to the region and whose earthen walls in their traditional homes influenced the design of the villas. The local Hmong are also connected to the property. They cultivate the rice fields that give the property its iconic design and local Hmong artisans, among other artists from different ethnic groups, lead cultural classes at the property’s Stilt House Museum.

After summiting the peak, climbers make their way downhill to get another taste of local life with stops in ethnic Thai villages, one of the country’s more than 50 recognized ethnic groups that each have their own distinct culture, traditions, and language.

There’s also a gourmet picnic lunch included in the package ensuring guests are well-nourished for the full-day trip.

More suitable for intermediate hikers is Avana’s ‘Hmong Village Trek.’ The full-day journey includes the rich cultural elements of the Adventure Trek but covers less challenging terrain. The trip starts away from the property in the village of the Muong people, who live in the valley areas of Mai Chau. The walk takes in meadows dotted with Hmong houses, follows winding red dirt roads frequented by buffalo, and native forest. Like the Adventure Trek a picnic lunch, served amid nature is part of the experience.

Adventure Trek prices start from VND1,350,000 (approx USD57) for one guest with pricing dropping down for each additional participant. A group of 5-10 guests would be from VND780,000 (approx USD33) per person. The Hmong Village Trek is from VND1,500,000 (approx USD63) for one guest and drops down to rates from VND780,000 (approx USD33) per person when 5-10 people join. Avana Retreat provides local guides with basic English skills for all treks with guides more experienced in speaking English available for an additional fee. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance for each trek.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WHEN THE MOON HITS YOUR EYE: Where to see rare total eclipse

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Dust off your eclipse glasses: It’s a little over half a year until a total solar eclipse sweeps across North America. On April 8, 2024, the moon will cast its shadow across a stretch of the US, Mexico, and Canada, plunging millions of people into midday darkness.

It’s been less than six years since a total solar eclipse cut across North America from coast to coast. That was on Aug. 21, 2017.

If you miss next year’s spectacle, you’ll have to wait 20 years until the next one hits the continent.

Here’s what to know to get ready for the 2024 show:

Where can I see it?

Next year’s eclipse will slice a diagonal line across North America on April 8, which falls on a Monday.

It will start in the Pacific and first reach land over Mexico around 11:07 a.m. local time, NASA predicts. Then, it’ll cross over into Texas and move across parts of the Midwest and Northeast in the afternoon.

All in all, it will hit parts of 13 US states: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Cities in its path include Dallas; Little Rock, Arkansas; Indianapolis; Cleveland and Buffalo, New York.

Parts of Canada – starting at about 3:15 in Windsor, Ont. and tracking across Southern Ontario, Quebec, and the Atlantic provinces by about 4:30 – will also get a glimpse before the eclipse heads out to sea in the early evening.

A total eclipse will be visible within a 240-km wide swath – the path of totality. The event will last about four minutes in some places along the path.

Outside that path, you can still see a partial solar eclipse, where the moon takes a bite out of the sun and turns it into a crescent shape.

Total eclipses happen about every 18 months, but a lot of times they cross over remote areas where few people see them.

What happens during an eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the moon passes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun’s light from reaching us.

Even though the moon is about 400 times smaller than the sun, it’s also about 400 times closer to Earth, explained University of Colorado astronomer Doug Duncan. So, when the orbits line up just right, the little moon can block out the whole sun. Those who are standing in the right spots will experience totality: when the moon casts its shadow over the landscape.

“In just seconds, you go from bright, bright daylight to like the middle of the night,” said Dr. Debby Brown, who saw her first total eclipse in 2017 with Duncan in Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.

“The stars are out. All of a sudden, all the animals are quiet,” recalled Brown, of Arlington, Virginia.

During the 2024 eclipse, totality will stretch to around four and a half minutes – almost twice as long as in 2017.

Where’ the best spot?

To catch the full eclipse experience, planning ahead is key, Duncan said. Weather could be a big factor since the eclipse is coming in the spring, when conditions are unpredictable. That’s why Duncan selected Texas for his eclipse tour next year, where there are better odds of clear skies.

Your choice also depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for, said Bob Baer, who’s coordinating eclipse plans at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.

Carbondale – in the crossroads of both the 2017 and 2024 eclipse paths – will hold a viewing event at the school’s stadium again. It’s a big group experience, Baer said: “The last 20 minutes before totality, the stadium gets as loud as a football game.”

But you can find eclipse events of all different flavours planned along the eclipse path: luxury cruises in Mexico, music festivals in Texas, farm camping in Arkansas, planetarium visits in upstate New York.

Wherever you are, you’ll want to grab eclipse glasses to see the partial phases before and after totality. Looking at the partially covered sun without protection can cause serious eye damage.

Do not do this.

What other eclipses are coming up?

The US will get some eclipse action ahead of the big event in 2024. There will be an annular eclipse – when the sun isn’t completely covered, but appears like a ring of fire in the sky – later this year, on Oct. 14.

The path of that eclipse will cross from Oregon down through California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.

With a 20-year gap until the next total solar eclipse in North America, Duncan says it will be worth it to be in the path of totality next year. He’s witnessed 12 total eclipses so far.

Seeing a partial eclipse – even if it’s 90% covered – means “you missed all the good stuff,” he said.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PUBS, PATIOS & BARS: 13 lucky places to have a Red Stripe in Jamaica

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Red Stripe, Jamaica’s famed beer, is synonymous the island. Its smooth yet zesty taste, served chilled in iconic stubby bottles, reminds drinkers of the genuinely vibrant yet calming spirit of the island and its inhabitants. Moreover, the logo adorns all manner of souvenirs that are carried by tourists to destinations around the world.

But the beer, of course, is made for drinking, not just T-shirts, so, where in the name of Bob Marley are the best places on the island to get one (or perhaps two)?

Here, courtesy of island insiders Jamaica Experience, is a list of 13 of the best places in Jamaica to enjoy Red Stripe:

Red Bones Blues Café, Kingston: In addition to enjoying a cold Red Stripe, visit this bar on Argyle road for an evening of fine Jazz music, dub poetry readings, and even film screenings. If your appetite permits, have dinner with your Red Stripe by the bar, in the dining rooms, under the gazebo, or by the courtyard.

Usain Bolt’s Tracks & Record, Kingston: While sipping on your Red Stripe at Tracks & Record, you can catch your favourite games on one of the flat-screen TVs positioned at various sections of this sports bar. On some nights, special events are held here such as comedy shows, music release shows, and watch parties.

Triple Century Sports Bar: Another great watch party location in Jamaica’s capital city is Triple Century. Owned by famous West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle, you can enjoy both local and international bites at this sports lounge while you nurse a couple of bottles of Red Stripe.

Pelican Bar, St. Elizabeth: You will have to journey by boat to enjoy your Red Stripe because this bar is located in the middle of the ocean. It’s one of the most popular day bars on Jamaica’s south coast. You get to enjoy sweeping views of the ocean, freshly prepared seafood dishes, and your favourite Jamaica beer.

Pier 1, Montego Bay: When you’re feeling for Red Stripe in Montego Bay, all roads lead to the lively seaside restaurant and bar, Pier 1. It’s a family-friendly dining location so while you are having your bottles of Red Stripe at the bar, the rest of your family can satisfy their tastebuds with the inviting seafood menu. There is also a menu for vegetarians and a kids menu.

Distil Bar, Kingston: If you want to season your palate with international cuisine while drinking your beer, Distil Bar is the place to go. It is strategically located in Marketplace surrounding a number of restaurants serving Indian, Chinese, Japanese, and Mediterranean dishes.

Rick’s Café, Negril: A trip to Negril without a stop at this cliffside hangout (photo) is a huge blunder that you will never make. While you sip on your Red Stripe, watch as brave patrons cliff dive.

The Brewery, Montego Bay: One of the distinct features of this restaurant is the amazing view of the sunset that patrons who dine in the evening enjoy. The location of The Brewery makes it an ideal spot to reflect on your day and converse with locals.

JoJos Jerk Pit, Kingston: The coolest jerk-pan hangout on Waterloo Road is JoJos Jerk Pit. Not only will you enjoy a bottle of Red Stripe, but you can also choose from a variety of jerk dishes such as jerk pork, chicken, sausage, and even jerk seafood. Maybe you want to balance your alcohol consumption, try a cup of soup at intervals.

Regency, Kingston: Maybe you’re seeking a quieter ambiance indoors. The Regency located inside Terra Nova All-Suites Hotel is perfect for you to enjoy a chilled bottle of Red Stripe. You can also order from their menu which includes local and international dishes.

Mary’s Bay Boat Bar & Grill, Negril: After a few hours of cliff diving, sunbathing, and splashes in the mini-pools on Negril’s Westend, visit this bar and grill to have a bottle of Red Stripe. It’s a relaxed setting that boasts a nightly, live Reggae music show.

Blue Beat, Montego Bay: This cozy lounge on the Hip Strip serves up the best of Montego Bay’s Jazz and Blues scene on most nights and attracts a mature crowd of music lovers. In addition to Red Stripe, try out their selection of fine wines and spirits at the bar.

Flavours Beach Bar, Runaway Bay: After a swim in the warm waters at Flavours, spend a few hours at the bar with a cool Red Stripe, a plate of jerk chicken and fries, and good company. That’s all you need to feel right at home.

Not close to any of these bars? There are more than enough spots in Jamaica to enjoy Red Stripe and other beverages. Ask the front desk at your hotel or villa to give you recommendations.

With glass purposefully in hand, we at Travel Industry Today continue our series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues. For more articles in the series, click here:

PREVIOUS ARTICLES: https://travelindustrytoday.com/pub-patio/

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Fifty Full Scholarships for Climate Friendly Travel Diploma

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Fifty Full Scholarships for Climate Friendly Travel Diploma - TRAVELINDEX - SUNxValletta, Malta, August 23, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Offer of a Free Scholarship for Climate Friendly Travel Diploma for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and other developing countries

Together with Malta’s Ministry of Tourism and the Institute for Tourism Studies, SUNx Malta will offer 50 Free Scholarships – one for each of the 39 SIDS and 11 for other developing countries from around the world (Uganda, India, Bali, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru) for our 2023 online two-year Climate Friendly Travel Diploma. The course begins on 2nd October 2023.

For the 2022 Diploma, we offered 46 scholarships for LDCs and 4 for Ukraine. And these will become National SUNx Chapters to advance Climate Friendly Travel on September 27th which is World Tourism Day.

The Diploma is a world first and trains students to support Travel & Tourism companies and communities to be climate resilient and to pursue Climate Friendly Travel Growth; as well as in transforming to achieve Zero GHG emissions by 2050. It also trains them to help to build Climate Friendly Travel Communities – preparing them for jobs in Sustainable Transport, Hospitality, Destination Management or Government Services.

You can find more details about the diploma and scholarship application link please click Climate Friendly Travel Diploma Scholarships .

The ideal candidate must be a graduate, with a commitment to a career in Travel & Tourism and have fluent English. They must be able to commit to two years of online engagement and be ready to work with us to help build Climate Friendly Travel Chapters of thoughtful Climate Response advocates in their countries.

To Apply, please click here

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WorldHotels Grows Presence in Tokyo with Largest Airport Hotel

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WorldHotels Grows Presence in Tokyo with Largest Airport Hotel - BESTWESTERN - TRAVELINDEX - BWHTokyo, Japan, August 22, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The New Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport joins WorldHotels Distinctive Collection. WorldHotels is delighted to announce its second new hotel in Tokyo, Japan with the addition of Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport, Tokyo. The property is an exceptional 1,557-room hotel comprised of 12 thoughtfully designed room categories. The hotel is committed to providing an opulent stay experience that only a high-end hotel can provide.

“As WorldHotels expands throughout Asia, we continue to identify leading, luxury properties to add to the brands portfolio,” said Ron Pohl, President of WorldHotels. “Villa Fontaine Grand Hotel Airport perfectly fits that mold, providing high-end accommodations right outside of Japan’s busiest international airport.”

Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport was originally developed in response to the diverse requirements of Haneda Airport, a 24-hour international hub. Connected directly to the airport, the hotel provides a truly hospitable and seamless arrival and departure experience expected of an international airport hotel. The property also serves as an ideal location for events and conferences, supported by the culinary delights within its restaurants and lounge. Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport provides convenient access to the Tokyo monorail, which can take passengers directly to Tokyo in 15 minutes, as well as an all-weather bus terminal that connects travelers to regional cities and tourist destinations throughout Japan.

Haneda Airport has been recognized as the Best Airport in Asia for two consecutive years and in 2022 was ranked second in the World’s Best Airports for a fourth consecutive year by Skytrax.

“Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport is the comprehensive next step of growing our portfolio of hotels and resorts in select destinations around the world,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President of International Operations-APAC. “It is an honor to partner with Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., Ltd., a well-established developer in Japan. It’s also a great opportunity for WorldHotels to increase our footprint in Tokyo, the world’s most populous metropolis, mixes of ultramodern and the traditional, the city is a truly unique destination both domestically & internationally.”

Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport is a significant addition to WorldHotels’ Distinctive collection in Asia Pacific. Providing an array of products and services, the property fulfills an important need for WorldHotels to further strengthen its portfolio near Haneda Airport, which is consistently recognized as one of the world’s best airports for its seamless international access and further support of Haneda Airport as the primary gateway to Japan.

In joining WorldHotels Collection, Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport is now part of the industry-leading loyalty program, WorldHotels Rewards℠. The third largest hotel loyalty program in the world offers guests exclusive access and privileges with “member-only” offers such as room upgrades, priority privileges, bonus points eligible and more.

About WorldHotels
WorldHotels is a privately held hotel soft brand within the BWH Hotels global enterprise. Founded by independent hoteliers dedicated to the art of hospitality, WorldHotels offers one of the finest portfolios of independent hotels and resorts around the globe, expertly curated to inspire unique, life enriching experiences that connect people and places. WorldHotels is comprised of four unique collections, each with its own personality and style to appeal to the needs of today’s traveler. The collections include: WorldHotels™ Luxury, WorldHotels™ Elite, WorldHotels™ Crafted and WorldHotels™ Distinctive. For more information visit WorldHotels.com.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

When an Iconic Heritage Brand Meets Modern Art

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When an Iconic Heritage Brand Meets Modern Art - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Jim Thompson’s ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE Campaign redefined Thai fashion by seamlessly blending its exquisite Thai silk heritage and craftsmanship with the vibrant works of celebrated contemporary Thai artists. The resounding success of the campaign has left an indelible mark on the fashion world, infusing the Thai fashion industry with fresh energy and new possibilities.

Jim Thompson, the iconic lifestyle brand known for its exquisite Thai silk and craftsmanship, has pushed the boundaries of fashion by combining heritage charm with modern art. The resounding success of the innovative ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE campaign, launched at the beginning of 2023, has redefined art and fashion, leaving a lasting impression on the Thai fashion world. Celebrated Thai artists Pichaya Osothcharoenpol, Nakrob Moonmanas and Kittipong Khamsat (Goh M) infused the world of fashion with the vibrancy of modern art in their distinctive collections, captivating fashion enthusiasts like never before.

Nunnapat Verojanavat, Marketing Director of Jim Thompson, said of the campaign, “The ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE project has been a tremendous success, with celebrated Thai artists bringing unparalleled innovation and excitement to our collections this year. This unique and exceedingly effective campaign is a testament to the immense creativity and ingenuity within Thailand’s flourishing fashion and art industry.”

The Collaborations: A Fusion of Art and Fashion

Jim Thompson launched its Artists in Residence campaign with the Jim Thompson X Pichaya Osothcharoenpol Collection, which celebrated Chinese New Year. Inspired by traditional Chinese cultural elements, renowned artist, designer, and illustrator Pichaya celebrated the Year of the Rabbit with symbols of peace, patience, and prudence. Her contemporary digital painting techniques infused the collection with a vibrant palette of colours: reds, pinks, blues, greens, and yellows.

In time for Songkran (Thai New Year) was Jim Thompson X Nakrob Moonmanas’ Collection. Renowned Thai collage artist and illustrator, Nakrob Moonmanas, drew inspiration from the antiques and fine arts on display at the Jim Thompson House Museum. His artwork masterfully blended local history and culture, uniting the East and the West. The result was a visually striking and thought-provoking collection with historical iconography interwoven with cosmic and space exploration themes.

The third collaboration – Jim Thompson X Goh M Collection – challenged conventional perceptions of colour, fusing pop art, street art, and graffiti with Jim Thompson’s iconic lifestyle aesthetic. Goh M’s distinctive designs featured vibrant pop art-inspired prints with motifs of flowers, local fruits, plants, and elephants. The collection in purple, orange, and green featured Goh M’s signature print and graffiti style.

The ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE campaign has sparked significant interest among fashion enthusiasts, redefining the fashion landscape in Thailand.By collaborating with exceptionally talented Thai artists, Jim Thompson has successfully infused the Thai fashion industry with fresh energy and creativity. The exclusive collections created by these artists have garnered widespread admiration and accolades, attracting new audiences to the brand.

Jim Thompson remains committed to supporting Thai artists and as an iconic lifestyle brand continues producing unique and distinctive works that set it apart in global fashion and lifestyle trends. Stay tuned for more exciting projects from Jim Thompson that exemplify the perfect fusion of tradition and innovation.

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

HELLO HONG KONG: New attractions, timeless treasures welcome returning Canadians

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It already seems like ages ago (March) that Hong Kong lifted its COVID mask mandate and Canada removed temporary pre-departure test requirements for air travellers from China, Hong Kong, and Macao. The double move eliminated two major obstacles for the return of travel to the favourite destination for Canadians and prompted the always industrious Hong Kong Tourism Board to ramp up operations to accommodate visitors ready (and able) to return after the long pandemic.

The tourism board had already launched its “Hello Hong Kong” tourism campaign with great fanfare in February to re-introduce itself to the world, including giving away 500,000 air tickets to global tourists in what Chief Executive John Lee called “probably the world’s biggest welcome ever.”

Activations included promotional activities, including lucky draws, “buy one, get one free” promotions, and games – all designed to reignite visitor interest.

In addition to a “we’re open” theme, the campaign, which included high-profile celebrity endorsements, highlighted new attractions, dining, and hotels, and was meant to show that Hong Kong “never rested during the pandemic” – constantly developing and improving its tourism product, even if tourists were unable to go there at the time.

The “fluid” campaign has continued throughout the summer and will carry on into the fall and winter, says HKTB’s Director for the Americas, Michael Lim, who adds the Canadian office is very happy with the reaction to “Hello Hong Kong” and the engagement it has generated, noting that travel agents can still tap into a huge array offers on the HKTB web site, such as free drinks at local bars and “other goodies” to offer their clients as a value-added goodwill gesture.

Lim says that interest amongst Canadians in Hong Kong remains strong, and despite the challenges early in the year, there were close to 75,000 arrivals from this country from January to June.

The HKTB’s current target market in this country includes those with disposition for long-haul travel, along with VFR and luxury travellers, and mainland Chinese transiting through the city due to a lack of direct flights.

Further, that it is a “must-see destination” for travellers enroute to other (Asian) destinations and/or as a destination on its own.

And for business travellers, a city that offers after-hours experiences – from nightlife to attractions to local cultural activities – and is worth an extension of a few more days.

HKTB Senior Trade Marketing Manager Yuen Kan Wong says her office is staging B2B, B2C and B2B2C campaigns in Canada to reiterate that Hong Kong is a “vibrant and exciting destination with lots to offer the visitor – both new experiences and timeless traditions.”

Attention is similarly being bestowed on travel agents through trade campaigns, and agent contests that will feature trip prizes.

“Our objective with the travel trade is to showcase that Hong Kong has a world of new discoveries” says Lim, who notes that “so much has happened during the pandemic.”

For example, “where do people stay?” he asks, pointing out that 15 new hotels have been built (with 84,000 rooms in the city overall).

And there are over 10,000 restaurants, covering all price points and including 77 with Michelin stars.

West Kowloon District

There are also new tours being developed and new attractions, not least the West Kowloon district, one of the world’s most ambitious cultural projects, which includes a rich variety of arts and cultural facilities that will produce and host world-class exhibitions, performances, and arts and cultural events.

The Xiqu Centre, Freespace, the Art Park, and M+ are already open to the public, along with the district’s crown jewel, the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which presents over 900 priceless treasures from the Palace Museum – many of them on display in Hong Kong for the first time, while others have never been shown to the public before.

Canadians should also know that Hong Kong is more than just an urban destination, says Lim, with wellness and outdoor options (like hiking) aplenty, spread across 260 islands. There’s even a UNESCO Global Geopark.

And better still, he points out, everything is within an hour’s reach, and accessible by affordable transit.

Importantly, the HKTB director points out that Canadians can easily get to Hong Kong with service from Cathay Pacific and Air Canada. The former offers 11 weekly flights from Toronto and eight from Vancouver (effective Sept.), while Canada’s national carrier provides seven per week from YVR.

As capacity resumes, says Yuen, there are even more “big plans in the pipeline” for Hong Kong in Canada.

And all of them, adds Lim, will continue to be designed to “be in front of our audience, and to drive business – to have people see Hong Kong and say, ‘I want to go there!’”

To help keep on top of developments in Hong Kong, agents are recommended to sign up to receive the monthly HKTB Canada newsletter. Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/FP7BDJwqxD.

HKTB Senior Trade Marketing Manager Yuen Kan Wong and Director for The Americas Michael Lim

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News