Global Travel News

RETAIL ROUND-UP: Cruising with Travel Edge and appointments at Trevello, Maritime Travel

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Travel Edge Network top advisors set sail in Europe while Trevello and Maritime welcomed new team members in this week’s round-up from the world of retail travel; and check out Swan Hellenic’s FAM incentive to Antarctica.

TRAVEL EDGE NETWORK

Travel Edge Network’s Ana McLaughlin, Advisor; Linda Winslow, Advisor; Mark Stubbert, VP of Advisor Services; Trisha Pergande, Advisor; Michelle Leal, VP Engagemen; Nadiya Makarenko, SVP; Diana Traficante; Cindy Brown, Advisor; Jeff Knuth, Advisor; and the captain of the AmaMora

Travel Edge Network (TEN) recently hosted a select group of top advisors, their hosted guests, and team members on an AmaWaterways Rhine River cruise aboard the AmaMora through Switzerland, Germany, France, and the Netherlands.

The group is part of an elite category of 22 advisors recognized as the network’s top performers who achieved a variety of milestones ranging from earning the highest level of preferred partner sales to surpassing $250K in overall revenue.

“There was much to celebrate on this cruise both for our industry and for our network, “says Nadiya Makarenko, Sr. VP, Travel Edge Network. “With the demand for luxury travel surging, our advisors have been working non-stop for their clients to ensure they get the hotels, tours and experiences they want considering the unprecedented demand. Being together for the week aboard the AmaMora was an amazing opportunity to thank our top performers, celebrate their success and share our appreciation for the important role they play in our network.”

Advisors were recognized in the categories of top overall sales as well as by vertical including air, hotels, cruise, tours and insurance. There is also a Rising Star award for an advisor in the early stages of their career.

TREVELLO

Jolana Phillips Veinott and Cathy Redekopp

Trevello Travel Group has welcomed Cathy Redekopp and Jolana Phillips-Veinott, to critical positions within the organization, exemplifying the company’s commitment to unparalleled professional development for agents.

Cathy Redekopp joins Trevello as the new Professional Development Manager for Western Canada, wielding an impressive background in the retail leisure travel industry. With Alberta serving as her base of operations, Redekopp will spearhead professional growth initiatives throughout the region.

Also joining the company is Jolana Phillips-Veinott, who, with over two decades of experience in adult education, assumes the role of Learning Manager.
“We are ecstatic to welcome Cathy and Jolana,” says Zeina Gedeon, CEO, Trevello Travel Group. “Their unmatched expertise and unwavering passion for continuous learning and professional development will undoubtedly amplify our company’s capabilities, ushering in a new era of success for our advisors and their clients.”

MARITIME TRAVEL

Maritime Travel has announced the appointment of retail travel industry veteran Kimberley Wood as Director of Branch Operations for Western Canada.

Wood will be responsible for Maritime Travel’s 22 leisure agencies in British Columbia and Alberta.

“Kimberley brings a wealth of experience and knowledge in directing the daily operations of agency teams, most recently at Transat Distribution Canada, and previously at American Express Travel,” says Carol Buchanan, President, Retail, Maritime Travel. “Western Canada is an important market for Maritime Travel, and we look forward to working with Kimberley as we continue to grow and prosper there.”

Headquartered in Halifax, Maritime Travel has more than 90 agencies across the country. A member of Virtuoso, the company was recently named a Platinum Club winner of Canada’s Best Managed Companies. Prior to that, it had been named one of Canada’s Best Managed companies every year since 1998.

Maritime Travel Inc. has been in business since 1949 and operates as LeGrow’s Travel in Newfoundland and Labrador.

SWAN HELLENIC FAM

Agents (and a friend) have a chance to sail with Swan Hellenic to Antarctica in November 2024. By booking three staterooms for the 2023-24 season before Dec. 31, 2023, each booking will be entered for a chance to win one of 10 cruises for two. More bookings increases the chances of winning. The offer includes a host of amenities including regional (but not international) airfare.

At the same time, clients are eligible for 30% savings on a nine-night Antarctica cruise taken before Aug. 31.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Krabi Hotel Invites Guests to Stay for Good

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Krabi Hotel Invites Guests to Stay for Good - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS.comKrabi, Thailand, July 12, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX /Banyan Tree Krabi, a luxury 72-key resort situated on secluded Tubkaek Beach, is encouraging its visitors to immerse themselves in the local Southern Thai culture, by joining weekly excursions to a nearby island renowned for producing beautiful batik fabrics and woodcrafts.

The initiative is part of the Banyan Tree Group’s “Stay for Good” programme, launched two months ago, aimed at enticing guests at 5-star hotels worldwide to roll up their sleeves and join neighbouring villagers at work.

At the Balinese property of Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape, for example, guests spend a day with local farmers, foraging for fruits and edible plants, while at Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto in Japan, visitors learn how to entwine grass to make traditional thatched roofs for villagers’ homes.

“At Banyan Tree Krabi, we invite our guests to embark on a day’s adventure at the quiet fishing town of Ban Koh Klang on a small island in the middle of the Krabi River,” said Sustainability Manager Ms Thepsuda Loyjiw. “It’s a great opportunity to travel by traditional longtail boat along the river where they might spot some rare bird species and wild monkeys among the mangroves. The island itself is a spectacular natural setting and among the hidden gems we visit is a series of majestic limestone caves.”

A lunch, inspired by home-grown fruits, vegetables and recipes passed down from one generation to the next, is served on a floating restaurant among the mangroves, then the guests meet the villagers and interact.

Among the daily pursuits the foreign visitors can experience are: joining the local craftsmen who intricately carve and create wooden models of longtail boats, which are sold in Krabi as souvenirs; and sitting with the women of Ban Koh Klang who are veterans of batik art, mixing organic dyes and skillfully painting colourful fabrics. Harvesting rice in the fields with a local family is included as a seasonal activity.

Launching the programme in May, Banyan Tree said it hopes the visits will “encourage a deeper connection with each destination while honouring the heritage and traditions and contribute to creating more opportunities for local communities.”

Constantly vying to reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint, in December Banyan Tree Krabi partnered with a local artisan, Souvenirs From the Sea, a project involving beachcombing for refuse and waste products that could be upcycled into sellable items such as tote bags.

Banyan Tree Krabi’s other recent sustainability initiatives include an Earth Day beach clean-up, and the introduction of Forest Bathing, a nature-based educational tour for guests, including children, to help raise awareness about environmental conservation and protecting local flora and fauna.

“Of course, many guests come to a serene destination to relax, to enjoy cocktails at sunset, spa treatments, and wining and dining,” said Loyjiw. “However, they also want to see the local customs, and nothing feels better than giving something back to the community.”

ABOUT BANYAN TREE
Banyan Tree offers a Sanctuary to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul in awe-inspiring locations around the globe. Rediscover the romance of travel as you journey to iconic destinations where authentic, memorable experiences await. An all-villa concept often with private pools, Banyan Tree provides genuine, authentic service and a distinctive, premium retreat experience.

ABOUT BANYAN TREE GROUP
Banyan Tree Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group”) is one of the world’s leading independent, multi-branded hospitality groups centred on the purpose-driven mission of stewardship and wellbeing while offering exceptional, design-led experiences.

The Group’s diversified portfolio of hotels, resorts, spas, galleries, golf and residences features an ecosystem of 10 global brands.

Established in 2008, with the goal of advancing people development and management excellence, Banyan Tree Management Academy has nurtured over 8,000 associates across 23 countries. The Group is recognised for its commitment to environmental protection and community development through its Banyan Tree Global Foundation. Operating over 70 hotels in 17 countries, it has 47 new properties in the pipeline.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Alma Named Best Family Resort in Vietnam

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Alma Named Best Family Resort in VietnamCam Ranh, Vietnam, July 12, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Alma Resort, a 30-hectare oceanfront property on the Cam Ranh peninsula in southern Vietnam, was named the No. 1 family resort in Vietnam by the influential Australian-based Holidays with Kids magazine.

The resort’s 12 “beautiful” swimming pools drew high praise in the editors’ review, which notes how the pools “cascade down to the beach” where a variety of exciting water sports are on offer.

“Families can enjoy the splash water park with its exhilarating slides, wave pool and lazy river,” the review continues. “There’s also a fantastic kids’ club and a youth club for teens with an abundance of activities to keep guests entertained.”

The Holidays with Kids Readers’ Choice Awards showcase the “best of the best” of family-friendly hotels and resorts in Australia and around the world. For a second-straight year, Alma won the top spot in the magazine’s ranking of Vietnam’s 10 best family resorts.

Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler said the resort’s location overlooking the 15-kilometre-long Long Beach “couldn’t be better for family travelers.”

“Alma is truly one-of-a-kind with its unprecedented array of family facilities ranging from our 6,000 sqm water park with a lazy river, water slides, wave pool and kid’s pool, to our science museum, cinema, youth club, kids club, 18-hole putting green, sustainable farm and more. We offer all our guests the ultimate beach holiday,” he said.

Alma was also recognized earlier this year as the leading luxury beachfront resort in Vietnam by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards.

About Alma
Situated on Vietnam’s emerging Cam Ranh peninsula fronting Long Beach, Alma resort commands some 30 hectares of inspiring ground. Emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination, the bold and spacious integrated resort offers 580 oversized suites and pavilions that all afford sweeping vistas of the ocean, including contemporary three bedroom oceanfront pavilions each totalling 224sqm with a living room, four bathrooms and a private pool. Alma features a broad spectrum of restaurants helmed by top chefs, a food court with an array of local and international cuisine, as well as a sports bar, pool bar and beach bar. Other highlights include 12 swimming pools cascading down to the beach, a waterpark, 13-treatment room spa, 75-seat cinema, convention centre, amphitheater, science museum, gymnasium and yoga room, 18-hole mini golf course, a youth centre with virtual reality games, a kid’s club, water sports centre, a sustainable organic farm and even an ‘Alma Mart’ mini supermarket.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Alain St. Ange Joins Top Management Team at the African-Asian Union

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Alain St. Ange Joins Top Management Team the African-Asian Union - TRAVELINDEXCairo, Egypt, July 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Alain St. Ange, Former Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine of the Republic of Seychelles and current Head of Saint Ange Tourism Consultancy is appointed as the AFASU Vice Chairman for the Tourism Division and Vice Chairman of AFASU Golden Awards Committee.

Afro Asian Union AFASU announced appointment of Alain St. Ange, Vice-President of the AFASU Tourism Sector and Vice-Chair of the AFASU Gold Awards Committee, HE Mr. Alain St. Ange is the former Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Maritime of The Republic of Seychelles and current President of Saint Ange International Tourism Consultancy.

His outstanding contributions and dedication to the development of tourism and his strong admiration for this sector had the greatest impact on choosing him to join the African-Asian Union AFASU as well as the importance of the AFASU awards in recognizing excellence and promoting innovation and sustainability in the field of travel and tourism and all other sectors of the union.

Alain St. Ange, Head of Saint Ange Tourism Consultancy and a former Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine of the Republic of Seychelles is honored by being appointed the AFASU’S Vice Chairman for the Tourism Division and Vice Chairman of the AFASU Golden Awards Committee.

Known for his outstanding contributions and dedication to developing tourism, as well as the significance reputation of the AFASU awards in recognizing excellence and fostering innovation in the field of tourism and travel, HE Alain St.Ange, as an expert in tourism and Head of the Saint Ange Tourism Consultancy, has been honored with the prestigious appointment as AFASU Vice Chairman for the Tourism Division and Vice Chairman of the AFASU Golden Awards Committee.

Alain St. Ange, has received many awards from several organizations across the world including a declaration as the “most tourified Tourism Minister in and outside Seychelles” by the Sunday edition “Ozordi Dimans” of the Seychelles ‘Today’ Newspaper written by Christine Ouma; This was just prior pulling the “Lifetime Achievement Award For Promotion of The Travel Trade” by Pacific Area Writers Association, an Affiliate Member of the UNWTO at ITB Tourism Trade Fair in Berlin Germany in March 2023.

He received a Plaque of Honour from the House of Lords in London (2015), and the Tourism Eminent Achiever Award in Africa (2015), the “Global Achievers Award” at the 34th International Congress of the Non-Resident’s Indians (NRI) Welfare Society of India. He is also the recipient of the Key to the City Awards in the USA by the City of Detroit, an Honorary Citizen of Sioux City Iowa and a ‘Key to the City Award’ by Tuskegee Alabama, the ‘Mahatma Gandhi Samman’ Award for strengthening Indo-Seychelles relations at a ceremony in New Delhi in India to the highest decoration of “Commandeur de l’Ordre National” in Madagascar done in the presence of the Island’s full Guard of Honour followed soon after also in 2012 by being offered a Conseil Regional Medal by Didier Robert, the Regional President of La Reunion for work to develop the cooperation between the Indian Ocean Islands and ‘Commandeur de l’Ordre de L’Etoile de Moheli’ by the Island of Comores (2014).

Chosen as an Honoree to be inducted into the African Diaspora World Tourism Hall of Fame for all the work he has done in cultural heritage tourism and confirmed that at this Travel Award in the USA honoured as a world tourism leader by the African Diaspora World Tourism Awards in Atlanta in the USA. Received from the Seychelles Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI) with a “Certificate of Recognition” for dedication and hard work in setting a record for Seychelles’

Tourism arrivals for 2016 and received a ‘Plaque of Honour’ at House of Lords, London from the Rt. Hon. Baroness Sandip Verma, the Minister of International Development of the United Kingdom in Recognition of Dedication, Passion, Courage, Commitment, Spirit Ethics & Excellence for Outstanding Endeavors (2015) and the “Travellinks Eminent Achiever Award” during their 7th Anniversary & Award Ceremony (2015).

Alain St.Ange is the Deputy Secretary-General of FORSEAA (Forum of Small Medium Economic AFRICA ASEAN) in Jakarta, the Vice President International Relations for TMN (Travel Marketing Network) in New York, Co-Chair of the SUNx (Strong Universal Network) Organization in London and coined as ‘A Seychelles’ Master of Promotion’ by International Kreol Magazine of the UK.

In September of 1995, the worldwide association of gourmets, the ‘Confrerie de la Chaine des Rotisseures’ honoured Alain St.Ange for his work as a restaurateur and hotelier in Seychelles. He was awarded the Charge de Mission du Bailliage des Seychelles at a ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya in the presence of Mr. Katana Ngala, the Kenyan Minister of Tourism. During that same era that he was admitted as a Member of the ‘Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Degustateurs’, The Tourism Society (MTS), The Cookery and Food Association (MCFA), the British Institute of Management (MBIM) & the Hotel and Catering International Management Association (MHCIMA).

For many years Alain St. Ange was a Consultant to PMAESA (Port Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa) in Mombasa and CIOA (Cruise Indian Ocean Association) in Durban, a ‘Honorary Member’ of the “Patrick Victor Cultural Foundation” (2016) and received an “Address of Appreciation” from Shannon College of Hotel Management of Ireland for the valuable support in the education of Seychellois students for the hotel industry.

In 2012 he received a Message from Queen Elizabeth II on Diamond Jubilee Beacon Lighting event that said: – “I am delighted that His Excellency Mr. Alain St. Ange, Minister of Tourism and Culture, is attending the concert and Diamond Jubilee Beacon lighting event at Beau Vallon Bay to share the celebration in commemorating the Diamond Jubilee marking the 60th Anniversary on My Accession to the Throne. As a mark of sincere friendship and good will, I send you my warmest greetings and best wishes for the forthcoming year. Elizabeth R. “followed by being named ‘Ambassadeur Ile de La Reunion’ (2012).

Alain St. Ange was the founding president of the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands (Seychelles, Mauritius, La Reunion, Madagascar, Comoros & Mayotte). During the Tourism Week celebrations of September 2017, the Seychelles Tourism Board presented Alain St. Ange with a “Certificate of Recognition” for the valuable contribution to Seychelles’ Tourism Industry as Seychelles Tourism Board Director of Marketing and Chief Executive Officer and as Seychelles’ Minister of Tourism. In 2019 Alain St. Ange was named as part of the “African Travel 100 Global Tourism Personalities” in the TOP 100 GLOBAL TOURISM PERSONALITY Award by ATQ News in Nigeria and on 24th of July 2019 in Johannesburg in South Africa he was named “Change Maker in Tourism Award” at the African Resilience Summit organized by the International Institute for Peace through Tourism (IIPT) in conjunction with the Resilience Council. In the same year he is appointed Chairman Board of Trustees of the Arab Tourism News Portal – Al-Masala-Official Tourism Travel Portal News at Middle East.

In 2021 Alain St. Ange was welcomed on the advisory board of the Global India Business Forum as an Honorary Member for the period 2021 – 2025 and was included in the Coffee Table Book “Global Icons of Travel & Tourism” written by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association covering 50 Tourism Leaders from across the world. He made the 2021 list of “Top 30 Hospitality and Tourism Influencers in Africa” by The Pyne Awards.

Sayari Dunia Sustainable Tourism Foundation of Nigeria appoints Alain St. Ange as a Board Member – This climate action, sustainable tourism, and heritage non – profit and non- governmental organization is leading a green and sustainability movement in tourism development in Africa through its climate action programmes in support of the UN SDGs and African Union Agenda 2063.

Mr. St. Ange has worked day and night for so many years to better the tourism industry and has been seen speaking at events around the globe. During his years in Office as Minister he brought not only himself, but the reputation of his country to become a leading force in international tourism.

Friends with all, enemies with none are what drives Alain St. Ange in the love of the tourism industry. Alain St. Ange was a directly elected Member of the Seychelles Legislative in 1979 and 2002 and was one of the three Presidential Candidates in the Seychelles 2020 Presidential Elections.

Alain St. Ange studied Hotel Management in Germany and Tourism Management in France. He worked in hotels in Seychelles, the Channel Islands and in Australia. He is a known and respected tourism personality and is often called on to address tourism or air transport on the international circuit because of his in-depth knowledge of the subject matter and his ability to speak ‘off the cuff or from the heart’ as he prefers saying.

Dr. Hossam Darwish, President of the African-Asian Union AFASU, said that he is proud and happy that Mr. Alain St. Ange joined the work team of the Federation and that he is an added value to the Union in general and the tourism sector. His strategic vision of supporting sustainable development, creativity, innovation, and development in all sectors.

Counselor Dr. Adel Al-Maslamani, CEO of the Union, confirmed that he strongly welcomes the presence of Mr. Alain St. Ange in the senior management committee of the Union, and we are confident that Mr. Alan’s great knowledge, experience and sophistication will help us expand international cooperation and achieve new successes in terms of supporting the sustainable development of the tourism, travel and aviation sectors in the African and Asian continents. We are pleased to appoint Mr. Alan as a member of the Executive Council of the Union in addition to his previous duties.

Major General Hossam Badr El-Din, Executive Vice President of the Union, added that within the framework of the AFASU’s endeavor to include major experiences in all sectors throughout 2023.

“We are pleased to welcome his sovereignty, as he will join a group of experienced and distinguished cadres in the Union, and we wish him a journey full of giving and full of achievements with the AFASU. We look forward to working alongside him to ensure the achievement of the federation’s future goals. We affirm full confidence and support for him to work towards achieving the strategic goals desired.”

The Afro-Asian Peoples’ Solidarity Organization (AAPSO) was founded in 1957. AAPSO is the oldest popular International non-governmental organization in the world.

The AFASU Union is founded under the umbrella of (AAPSO) and was officially announced on, 2020. The main aim of the union is to spread awareness in Africa and Asia, making research and development part of our culture. Moreover, it aims to grow the tourism sector by making local societies and private sectors participate in the development of tourism, making it an active sector. The organization works to improve people’s income, as well as minimize poverty and unemployment. Besides, the organization is to establish rules to promote tourism by using technologically advanced measures. Also, the union aims to preserve national heritage and crafts to improve people’s lives and solve their economic problems.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Ruby Jubilee Celebration Package at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel Bangkok

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Ruby Jubilee Celebration Package at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel Bangkok - TRAVELINDEX - VISITTHAILANDBangkok, Thailand, July 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Enjoy with us the very special occasion of our hotel anniversary by booking the Ruby Jubilee stay package and joining with us to celebrate this important milestone 40th anniversary of Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers. Special privileges during your stay include room upgrade and dinner by the Chao Phraya River

During your stay with us, we are delighted to offer room upgrade with our compliments a bottle of private label wine daily, and buy 1 get 1 free BBQ buffet dinner at THB 1,800++. Come and join in the fun!

Special in Celebration of our Ruby Jubilee year, every Baht spent with a minimum of THB 10,000 on rooms, restaurants, catering and weddings at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers throughout July and August 2023 will be eligible for a chance to win an Exclusive Experiences by the Chao Phraya River at a value of THB 2M in total. (1 prize x Grand prize worth at THB 1,000,000 package / 5 prizes x 2nd prize worth at THB 100,000 package / 10 prizes x 3rd prize worth of THB 50,000 package)

Ruby Jubilee Celebrations package details included below:
• Room rates start from THB 6,150++ for non-member or THB 5,842++ for Marriott Bonvoy Member
• Room upgrade to Premium Deluxe Riverview
• Eligible for Marriott Bonvoy points earning
• Receive one bottle of private label wine on daily basis
• Complimentary BBQ buffet dinner at Feast when accompanied by one paying adult at THB 1,800++ per person
• Package available for stay period until 31 August 2023

For more information or reservation, please call +66 2 266 0123, e-mail at res172.royalorchid@sheraton.com or visit our: www.royalorchidsheraton.com

About Sheraton Hotels & Resorts
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts makes it easy for guests to feel welcome at over 435 hotels in more than 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 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. To learn more, visit www.sheraton.com. Stay connected to Sheraton on Facebook, and @sheratonhotels on Twitter and Instagram. 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.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Partners with Alpitour World Around Innovation and Education

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UNWTO Partners with Alpitour World Around Innovation and Education - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, July 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO will work with Alpitour World as a strategic partner to advance innovation, education and sustainability across every part of the tourism sector.

Reflecting UNWTO’s focus on harnessing the power of public-private partnerships, the newly-signed Memorandum of Understanding with Alpitour World, will see the two organizations work together around shared strategic goals. In this context, the two organizations will particularly focus on supporting innovators and driving forward the digital transformation of the sector.

Working together for a smarter tourism

The partnership between UNWTO and Alpitour is aimed at strengthening the links between tourism’s public and private sectors. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and Alpitour World President Gabriele Burgio. Among its key aims are to:

  • Develop strategic collaborations in the field of tourism innovation, including through supporting the creation of a tourism startup ecosystem.
  • Recognize and supporting the best new talent through the organization of Start-Up Competitions focused on advancing tourism’s contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Advance tourism as a pillar of rural development, including through Alpitour World’s support of the Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO initiative.
  • Collaborate in training hospitality workers, including through joint education courses and other training materials

This Memorandum of Understanding lays the foundations for future, specific joint initiatives, establishing Alpitour World as a key partner of UNWTO in innovation and sustainability.

  • Alpitour World is a leading tourism operator, with its own airline, hotel chain and a global network of more than 2,400 travel agencies.
  • As part of the partnership, UNWTO and Alpitour World will hold regular joint meetings and strategy sessions as they continue to advance their collaboration and adapt to the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing tourism.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Zero Carbon Forum to Showcase Innovative Sustainable Suppliers to Hospitality

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Zero Carbon Forum to Showcase Innovative Sustainable Suppliers to Hospitality - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, June 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Zero Carbon Forum is set to launch Marketplace, a ‘first of its kind’ new services directory designed to connect innovative supply chain businesses with brewing and hospitality operators to help them reach net zero faster.

Marketplace is open for applications and will provide a ‘one stop shop’ for hospitality and brewing operators to source the essential products and services they need to help radically reduce their carbon emissions. The new platform will feature a product and services directory to allow users to segment by the most relevant emissions area such as food, energy and packaging and accelerate the pace of reduction action. The directory will be published in Q4 2023 following a review of applications.

With a raft of pioneering businesses already signed up to the venture, the forum is on the lookout for more innovative suppliers of all sizes and growth stages to add to the Marketplace brand list and showcase their carbon reducing product or service.

Cutting edge brands already on board include BioFase (biodegradable products made from avocado stones), Britvic (pioneering soft drinks dispense innovation to reduce packaging),Gentle Farming (regenerative agriculture), Guardians of Grub (a food waste reduction initiative from WRAP), Keenan (decarbonisation of food waste collection services),Mitsubishi Electric (decarbonisation of buildings with efficient heat pumps and chillers), Quintex Systems (kitchen energy efficiency specialists) Wildfarmed (regenerative flour with an end-to-end, audited and traceable supply chain) and Yum Bug (protein from edible insects).

Mark Chapman, CEO at Zero Carbon Forum said: “Up to 90% of hospitality and brewing emissions are from the supply chain. And 35% of the UK’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions come from food and drink.

“We in hospitality are the biggest industry to be affected, therefore we must act. We can’t reach net zero without engaging suppliers and Marketplace has been conceived to provide operators with innovative sustainable services and solutions that help accelerate the transformational change we need to make.”

Brands and suppliers that feature in Marketplace are validated via an entry selection procedure to ensure products and services support net zero goals.

Mark continues: “We have less than three years to radically reduce emissions to maintain a habitable planet. Customers, employees and investors expect businesses to take climate action and they will buy from the companies that do. The brands and suppliers showcased in the Marketplace directory are doing game changing work to help the hospitality sector reach net zero.

“We want to champion this great work to facilitate real and seismic change. We look forward to working with more suppliers of all shapes and sizes as we grow Marketplace and make it the definitive resource for the hospitality and brewing industry”

About Zero Carbon Forum
The Zero Carbon Forum is a non-profit organisation which builds on 10 years of carbon reduction collaboration in the UK’s hospitality and Brewing sector. It enables members to reach their decarbonisation targets faster, more efficiently and more cost effectively than acting alone.

The Zero Carbon Forum published its publicly available roadmap to achieve net zero carbon ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 26) in November 2021.

Members pledge to work collaboratively, by sharing carbon reduction plans and initiatives. By combining expertise and resources the forum helps to identify all possible actions to decarbonise operations across tens of thousands of outlets and their supply chains.

The Zero Carbon Forum is endorsed by government and backed by trade associations UK Hospitality and the British Beer and Pub Association. Members include leading UK and global hospitality organisations, including Adnams, Azzurri Group, Boparan Restaurants, Brewdog, Burger King UK, Côte Restaurant Group, Fuller’s, Greene King, Honest Burgers, InterContinental Hotels (IHG) Hotels & Resorts, JD Wetherspoon, KFC, Marston’s PLC, McDonald’s UK and Ireland, McMullen’s Brewery, Mitchells & Butlers PLC (MAB), Nando’s UK and IRE, Pizza Express, Pizza Hut Restaurants UK, Revolution Bars, Shepherd-Neame Ltd, St. Austell, Stonegate, The Restaurant Group (including Wagamama), Wadworth Brewery, WSH, and Young & Co. Brewery, PLC.

About London Essence
In 1896, the founders of The London Essence Company began to develop exquisite essences for the city’s finest perfume houses. Informed by this innovative heritage, The London Essence today creates luxurious drinks with purest flavours derived from quality ingredients. An ensemble of botanicals is artfully selected by their team of flavour experts and gently distilled until their true essence is captured. The result is a premium mixer that doesn’t cloak the flavour of the spirit it accompanies but rather accentuates it.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

MYAirline Launches New Kuala Lumpur-Bangkok Daily Flights

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MYAirline Launches New Kuala Lumpur-Bangkok Daily Flights - TRAVELINDEX - AIRLINEHUB.comKuala Lumpur, Malaysia, July 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The once daily flights to both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports to become twice daily on 17 August 2023 – offer tourists increased choice in travelling to Thailand. Bangkok has become the first international destination for Malaysia’s newest low-cost airline MYAirline, with the launch of a new daily direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Suvarnabhumi Airport on 28 June 2023 and a second daily flight to Don Mueang International Airport on 1 July 2023.
From 17 August 2023 a second daily flight will be added to both airports, bringing the total daily flights operated by MYAirline between Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok to four.

The airline, established in January 2021, said it was the first Malaysian carrier to fly to both Bangkok airports, and that it planned to add flights to other destinations in Thailand in the future, such as Phuket, Krabi, and Chiang Mai.

Mrs. Sirintara Surakanitaya, TAT Kuala Lumpur Office Director, said “MYAirline is providing tourists with more options and flexibility in terms of traveling between Thailand and Malaysia, catering to travelers’ specific needs and enabling them to plan their itineraries more efficiently.”

The 180 passengers including media and bloggers onboard MYAirline’s inaugural flight to Suvarnabhumi Airport on 28 June – Flight Z9 550 – were welcomed upon arrival by TAT and airport staff.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ATLANTIC CITY BETS ON NON-GAMBLING ENTERTAINMENT

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A new $100-million indoor aquatic recreation facility is hoping to make a splash in Atlantic City with the aim of appealing to family tourism and giving visitors something else to do besides gambling in the New Jersey tourism destination.

It is an effort that Las Vegas has used with great success in recent decades as that city emphasized resort amenities, entertainment and most recently, professional sports, in addition to gambling.

The Island Waterpark is another big bet on non-gambling entertainment in the seaside resort as Atlantic City seeks to become less dependent on the spin of the slot machine reels, the roll of the dice or the flip of the cards.

In recent years, its nine casinos and some non-gambling businesses have unveiled attractions including a giant Ferris wheel, high-end restaurants and shopping and entertainment venues.

“I’m so excited for this project and for the people of Atlantic City. You can bring the family and have something for the kids to do, too,” said Bart Blatstein. “Statistics show people will travel up to seven hours to go to a water park. And it’s not just us here. We have nine casinos, 300 great restaurants and 20,000 hotel rooms. We all benefit from this.”
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Blatstein, president of Tower Investments, has been particularly active on the non-gambling front in Atlantic City. He bought the Showboat, a former casino hotel, from Stockton University in 2016 and operated it as a non-gambling hotel. Since then he has added an indoor arcade and go-kart track there.

Island Waterpark

Another attempt at non-gambling attractions did not fare so well. Blatstein bought the former Pier Shops from Caesars Entertainment for $2.7 million and reopened it in 2015 as The Playground shopping and entertainment complex. But that project fizzled despite what Blatstein said was $52 million worth of investments, and he sold it back to Caesars five years later for an undisclosed price.

The project is the first in a long string of Atlantic City water park proposals to actually, well, hold water.

In April 2017, a local investment group led by investor Ronald Young signed a deal to buy the former Atlantic Club casino, announcing plans for a family-friendly hotel, anchored by an indoor water park. But when financing dried up, so did the water park plan.

In 2012, a group headed by developer Tom Sherwood proposed a sailboat-shaped hotel and water park project in the Marina District.

The Island Waterpark, built on a vacant lot between the Showboat and the Ocean Casino Resort, includes 11 slides, a 90-sq.-m. surf simulator, and a lazy river encircling much of the park. It also has a Kids’ Cove, 9-m.-tall) tree house that can be booked for private parties, cabanas, and an adults-only nightlife section.

Tickets range from US$69 to $119 p.p. depending on the time of year.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: July 3-7, 2023

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Canada unveiled a new tourism strategy, and a boost for travellers arriving in Ottawa and Halifax; also last week, Canadian carriers announced some new destinations, Emirates conducted its first flight to Montreal, and a member of the Canadian travel trade was appointed to the Order of Canada.

NEWS

Calling the post-pandemic surge in travel a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Canada’s visitor economy to compete on the global stage, Ottawa as has unveiled “Canada 365: Welcoming the world. Every day.” – a new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy that will invest tourism assets; embrace recreation and the great outdoors; partner to grow Indigenous tourism; attract more international events; and improve coordination through a federal ministerial council.

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) plans to launch a pilot for dedicated Verified Traveller screening lines at Ottawa International Airport and Halifax Stanfield International Airport. The new pilot, to be in effect by Aug. 23, will test the feasibility of having dedicated lines open on a daily basis at these airports by opening them during peak periods; outside of these peak periods, a front-of-the-line service would be offered to eligible verified travellers.

TICO

After being charged by TICO, Angela Comella pleaded guilty to operating as a travel agent without registration, while and Angie’s All Seasons Travel Inc was convicted of other infractions contrary to the Travel Industry Act, 2002. Comella was fined $5,625, inclusive of a victim surcharge, and sentenced to a two-year probation plus other non-monetary penalties. The agency received a similar two-year probation.

BY THE NUMBERS

From April 2022 to March 2023, the Government of Canada issued 3,346,223 passports, while for 2023-24 fiscal year, between 4.3 and 4.9 million passports are forecast to be issued. Since April 1, 2023, the Government of Canada has issued 745,401 passports.

AIR

WestJet has announced the addition of Bonaire to its roster of Caribbean destinations with non-stop seasonal weekly departures from Toronto starting Dec. 12. The carrier will be the only Canadian airline providing scheduled non-stop lift to the island (departing on Tuesdays, returning Wednesdays).

Canada Jetlines reports it has signed a six-month contract with FlyAllways, a Caribbean airline based in Suriname, where FlyAllways will charter Canada Jetlines to provide weekly flights between Toronto and Georgetown, Guyana. Commencement of flying is expected to start this fall subject to Guyanese government approval.

PAL Airlines and Air Canada completed the inaugural PAL Airlines operation of an Air Canada Express flight between St. John’s and Halifax. The inaugural section on July 1 was the first flight operated under a newly completed commercial agreement achieved between the two carriers to fortify regional service in eastern Canada. The commercial agreement will see PAL Airlines acquire up to six additional Dash 8-400 aircraft to be progressively introduced into service on behalf of Air Canada for a term of up to five years.

Emirates made a landmark touchdown in Montreal last week, marking the start of scheduled daily non-stop aboard Boeing 777 services to its second gateway in Canada. Emirates now serves Canada with 14 flights per week.

TOURS

Lagavulin whisky distillery, Isle of Islay

Highland Explorer Tours is inviting clients to sample Scotland’s golden ‘water of life’ straight from the source on its four-day “Isle of Islay Whisky Experience,” departing Aug. 11 and Sept. 15. Dubbed the “Queen of the Hebrides,” the island is renowned for its peaty and smoky malts and is home to nine working distilleries, creating some of the finest and single malt whisky in the world. Tour participants will experience Gaelic culture first-hand with a local guide, stroll along scenic beaches, and sample some of the most sought-after Islay whisky, before travelling to the picturesque west of Scotland.

Trailways of New York announced the immediate addition of service to Montreal to meet demand of suspended Amtrak service. The additional service brings Trailways of New York’s total number of daily trips to and from Montreal to 10.

DEALS

Through 12 July, IHG Hotels & Resorts guests can save up to 25% off on bookings with participating hotels across hundreds of locations in the UK, Ireland, and Germany. IHG One Rewards members will also receive an additional 10% when booking. The offer applies to travel through Sept. 30.

RESORTS

Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Riviera Nayarit, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos, Mexico, has introduced its latest amenity, “Float My Boat,” a floating tray that elegantly and in some cases, extravagantly, showcases curated culinary and beverage selections, from Imperial Ossetra Caviar and Moët & Chandon champagne to a sweet corn tamale topped with golden caramel popcorn and gold flaked margaritas. The new amenity brings together the finest flavours of the resorts’ award-winning culinary teams paired with stunning views. The amenity is priced from US$150 to $400 (plus service charge) depending on the resort.

HOTELS

Toronto Marriott City Centre, otherwise known as the hotel attached to the Rogers Centre – home of the Blue Jays – has opened On Deck, an open-air patio designed to reflect the stadium dugouts next door and offer a game-day tailgate party vibe. Ideal for a beer and bite before or after the game, the 44-seat space is located at the entrance to the hotel and is open from 4 to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11:30 to 10 on weekends. Food options range from barbecue meats (including the 24-inch “Slugger” hot dog) to salads, flatbreads, and handhelds, complemented by an extensive selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Seats are first-come, first-serve, reservations not accepted.

CRUISE

Riviera River Cruises is extending its at-par incentive for Canadian travel advisors to book clients on its European river cruises for an additional month. Riviera will continue accepting bookings for 2023 departures in CAD equivalent to prices listed in USD through the end of July, providing significant savings through the exchange rate. The incentive had been set to expire at the end of June.

Expanding its reputation for immersive travel experiences, Holland America Line has launched “National Geographic Day Tours” in the Mediterranean. The exclusive shore excursions were developed with National Geographic, a world leader in geography, cartography, and exploration. Beginning this summer, guests sailing on Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam can participate in the tours, which include such experiences as meeting powerful female figures in Kusadasi, Turkey; experiencing a day in the life of a marine biologist in Naples, Italy; learning about organic honeybee farms in Rhodes, Greece; and meeting local families in Santorini, Greece. Each tour is led by a National Geographic trained guide.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

Coinciding with Shark Awareness Day on July 14, Discovery Cove in Orlando is celebrating July as “Shark Month” with unique ways for visitors to learn about these magnificent animals. Additionally, “Shark Month” themed content will be available all month on Discovery Cove’s Instagram and Facebook page.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

Variety Cruises has announced offers for vetted active travel professionals, valid for all itineraries in Greece, the Seychelles, Tahiti, West Africa, Cape Verde, Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Costa Rica, and Panama. With the new offer, travel professionals benefit from a 75% for bookings made 59 days prior to departure, 60% for bookings made 119 to 60 days prior and 50% discount on official rates for bookings made 120 days prior to departure (terms and conditions apply). Travel agents interested in any of the above cruises are asked to send an enquiry to famtrips@varietycruises.com along with proof of employment and their business card. Reservations are subject to availability and, in order to be confirmed, full payment is required. Payments are fully refundable up to 30 days prior to departure.

EVENTS

This year’s ACTA Fall Summits will feature Bruce Poon Tip, CEO of G Adventures (who was named an Officer of the Order of Canada this year, see below) and Pam Hoffee, President, Avalon Waterways, as keynote speakers at the association’s events in Western and Eastern Canada respectively (Sept. 14 – Toronto; Sept 21 – Vancouver; Sept. 27 – Montreal).

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Bruce Poon Tip, founder of Toronto-based G Adventures has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in recognition of his services to both Canada and humanity. The social and community travel pioneer was one of nearly two dozen people named to the Order for 2023 and is the first person in the travel industry to receive the title of Officer in 34 years.

DESTINATIONS

The Organization of World Heritage Cities recently granted the city of Scottsdale, Arizona, membership among an elite group of more than 200 cities from around the world that are home to UNESCO World Heritage sites. With this acceptance, the organization recognizes Scottsdale as the location of Frank Lloyd Wright’s desert home and laboratory, Taliesin West, and welcomes the city as an active participant in international efforts to protect and preserve the heritage of mankind.

The biannual NYC Restaurant Week dining program returns this summer from July 24 to Aug. 20 with hundreds of restaurants across New York’s five boroughs offering prix-fixe menus for lunch and dinner. A full list of participating eateries is available at nyctourism.com/restaurantweek.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1886, the first Canadian Pacific Railway passenger train from Montreal reached Port Moody, BC, after a 139-hour trip. The first eastbound train left the next day.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News