Global Travel News

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE: $5m Vegas race package fit for an emperor

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Casino giant Caesars Entertainment is offering what may be the most extravagant guest package for the highly anticipated Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix later this year at a whopping US$5 million.

The luxury “Emperor Package” includes a five-night stay at the Nobu Sky Villa at Caesars Palace during race week with numerous amenities, access to a personal driver, and Rolls-Royce and two tickets to an Adele concert.

The multimillion-dollar experience also grants VIP access to a 440-sq.m. terrace overlooking the Strip, which will be decked out like a F1 racetrack.

The race in Vegas is expected to be the most expensive sporting event on Formula One’s agenda this year. The price starts at US$500 for a three-day general admission pass. Those seats were only added after fans complained that hotels planned to purchase massive ticket blocks and repackage them into entertainment experiences ranging from $100,000 to $1 million.

Ahead of tickets first going on sale last November, seats in the grandstands started at $2,500.

F1, owned by US-based Liberty Media, will be a first-time promoter for the Nov. 18 night race that will use famous Vegas landmarks and rush down the Strip.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali says that “in terms of price positioning we are going to be on the top side because this is Las Vegas and that is the nature of the customer coming to Las Vegas.”

Emperor’s Package

Promising the most curated experience during the inaugural race weekend, the Caesar’s package features accommodation at the Nobu Sky Villa, an expansive 957-sq.-m., three-bedroom space that also boasts a 437-sq.-m. terrace perched only 42 m. above the Strip. The terrace can accommodate up to 75 guests to watch the race.

Caesars Entertainment has also leveraged its roster of celebrity culinary talent to offer an exclusive dining experience that money cannot buy. Michelin-starred restauranteur Chef Nobu Matsuhisa will personally create a special menu and host a private dinner for 12 in the Nobu Sky Villa. Guests will feast on Chef Nobu’s signature New Style Japanese cuisine, while indulging in the finest sake and Japanese whisky hand selected by Chef.

In addition to the villa, the package will offer access to race festivities and VIP treatment and experiences, including:

• 12 tickets to the Paddock Club including an all-inclusive food and beverage package as well as access to the Pit Lane Walk and a private Caesars Entertainment space within the Paddock Club™ to enjoy the racing action with bespoke service and accommodations

• A personal driver and Rolls-Royce for the entirety of the stay

• A choice of any spa service for six guests in the villa’s private treatment room by artisans from the award-winning Qua Baths & Spa

• Personal VIP host to coordinate experiences at all Caesars Entertainment’s Las Vegas resorts, including food and beverage offerings across the city and OMNIA Nightclub at Caesars Palace

• Immediate Seven Star Caesars Rewards Tier Status

As an added gift, Caesars Palace will invite the Emperor Package holder and a guest to attend the sold-out residency “WEEKENDS WITH ADELE” concert at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

CARNIVAL WELCOMES NEW SHIP, VENEZIA

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Transitioning from sister line Costa, Carnival Venezia officially joined the Carnival Cruise Line fleet this week in Cadiz, Spain, with Costa Captain Tihomir Muzic handing over the ship to Carnival Captain Claudio Cupisti. “We are so pleased to welcome Carnival Venezia to the fleet, which following a dry dock, will debut as our first ‘Fun Italian Style’ ship this May,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

The ship will receive finishing touches over the next two months in preparation for her 15-day transatlantic Carnival Journeys sailing from Barcelona on May 29, ahead of the start of year-round cruising from New York’s Manhattan Cruise Terminal on June 15.

A wide range of sailing options are available, with 10 different cruise durations and 22 unique itineraries featuring visits to 25 ports across 14 countries.

Built in 2019, Carnival Venezia accommodates up to 5,145 guests and 1,393 Carnival crew members.

Carnival Venezia in Spain

When guests first board Carnival Venezia, they will be immediately surrounded by Italian architectural design both inside and out. The ship’s lavish atrium is modeled after Venice’s main public square, the Piazza San Marco, whereas the Lido deck draws inspiration from the Italian Riviera with a retractable roof to allow guests to still enjoy the pool year-round.

The ship will introduce a number of new food and beverage offerings to the Carnival fleet where guests can sample classic Italian street food at La Strada Grill, a Mexitalian fusion restaurant Tomodoro, a similar-to-Alchemy-Bar Amari, and Frizzante, serving a variety of (you guessed it – frizzy) drinks, from prosecco to spritzes and bellinis, along with Italian beer, authentic Italian coffees and biscotti.

Carnival Venezia will also feature new Italian-inspired entertainment spaces, such as the Gondola Lounge, and the Carnevale Bar & Lounge, celebrating the elegance of Venetian masquerades during Carnevale, as well as new activities like the Italian Street Party where Little Italy meets Lido, the Captain’s Venetian Toast, and Italian-inspired youth programming for kids and teens.

The ship will be home to many of the activities and familiar experiences from other Carnival ships as well, including Carnival Waterworks, Piano Bar 88, Heroes Tribute Lounge, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi & Teppanyaki, Guy’s Burger Joint, Cloud 9 Salon & Spa, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, and Dr. Seuss Bookville.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Innside by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras Announces Grand Opening

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Innside by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras Announces Grand Opening - TRAVELINDEXKuala Lumpur, Malaysia, March 22, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The contemporary INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras will debut in the country’s capital on March 25th. The new 238-room property is designed for guests who opt for a sense of fluidity – when it comes to mixing work and play – and seek a hotel that inspires them to do both.

Situated in the vibrant commercial hub of Cheras, surrounded by shopping and nightlife, Malaysia’s first INNSiDE hotel is opening with a playful design that offers spaces for business and leisure.

To enhance co-working and stimulate creativity the hotel has two vibrant multifunctional areas, The Big Ideas Space and The Recording Studio, that can cater for up to 30 guests. Situated on the 5th floor the Big Ideas Space features comfortable couches with bold pops of color and design – mossy green, turquoise, and houndstooth sit alongside each other.

A spacious meeting table overlooking a projector caters for small groups and digital nomads. Inspirational messages and funky art bedeck the walls and books and games are strategically placed for downtime. The Recording Studio, which also shares the 5th floor of the hotel, features a big screen TV and a multitude of cozy spaces to work or chat.

The hotel features an alfresco palm tree-fringed infinity pool with an expansive sun-lounging deck that’s open all day. Those wanting to workout can do so at any hour with a 24-hour gym featuring weights and state-of-the-art cardio equipment.

The property offers six room categories. The entry level room type, The INNSiDE Room, starts at 22 square meters and features a rain shower, plush king-sized bed and local art, along with touches of turquoise through the chairs framing the in-room desk, and purple lighting. The most decadent room choice is one of the two Townhouse Xtra accommodation options, which are 85 and 102 square meters. The spacious suite features separate living/dining and sleeping areas, and a bathroom with a freestanding deep soaking tub overlooking the city. The suite type also features two TVs, a Nespresso coffee maker, video-game consoles and a free premium mini bar.

As with all Meliá properties eco-measures are a core pillar of the new hotel. The property’s main objective is to be plastic-free. Other initiatives include solar-powered LED lighting and eco-conscious in-room amenities like wheat straw yoga mats (in certain room types).

The all-day restaurant, Duke’s Kitchen, features an open kitchen and a sunny outlook through floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook a fountain. The menu features specialties such as Italian Lobster Agli Olio and succulent lamb shanks, along with healthy food choices such as Smoked Salmon Benedict and Chicken Pesto. A buffet is available for breakfast, and a la carte options for lunch and dinner.

The hotel is located 15 minutes by car from the Golden Triangle business hub and 50 minutes from the airport. Other nearby attractions include the Perdana Botanical Gardens, a lush recreational park in the city’s heart, and the Malaysia Cartoon and Comic House, a popular gallery that showcases the history of cartoons and comics in the country.

INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras is the second Meliá property to debut in Malaysia. Meliá Kuala Lumpur is an upscale 288-room property in the city center that has been welcoming guests since 1990.

Room rates start at RM238+ (USD 53) per room per night inclusive of breakfast for two.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has a portfolio of more than 400 hotels (portfolio and pipeline), throughout more than 40 countries, and 10 brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Falcon’s Resorts by Meliá, Sol by Meliá and Affiliated by Meliá. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company worldwide, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment, and it is also a “Top Employer 2023” brand in Spain, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Italy and Germany. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market.

About INNSiDE by Meliá
INNSiDE by Meliá is a collection of unique urban and beach hotels designed for those with curious minds and fluid lives. Always true to their destination, we give guests the freedom to connect or disconnect among an independent community of like minded travellers.

INNSiDE provides guests with all the everyday essentials and extra-special details to make their stay all the more unique. From in-room comforts to the inspiring Big Idea Space, Open Living Lounges, and fitness studios, we allow guests to feel more-than-at-home.

Sustainability is also packed into all the little details: every room is equipped with paper and plastic-free collateral and complimentary organic cosmetics.

There are currently 38 INNSiDE by Meliá properties worldwide, with the brand continuing to expand its global footprint. All properties are located in the best lifestyle neighbourhood travel destinations. Some of them are Spain (Madrid, Mallorca, Ibiza, Fuerteventura, Zaragoza), United Kingdom (Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester), United States (New York, Lima), Germany (Berlin, Bremen, Frankfurt, Munich, Dresden, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Leipzig, Hamburg) Czech Republic (Prague), France (Paris), Italy (Milano), China (Zhengzhou), Indonesia (Yogyakarta) and Netherlands (Amsterdam).

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Eat Light, Feel Bright at a Vietnamese Wellness Resort

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Da Nang, Vietnam, March 22, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / While holidays are often associated with overindulgence – especially when it comes to meals – TIA Wellness Resort in Vietnam is rewriting the narrative on what it means to eat healthy while on vacation. TIA’s food concept, Eat Light, Feel Bright, along with a host of wellness initiatives, from a creative F&B offering that emphasizes plant-based cuisine to the launch of healthy cooking classes, are helping guests make nourishing decisions.

The overall concept, Eat Light, Feel Bright, is rooted in eating natural, real food and the science behind its benefits. Healthy alternatives for certain ingredients and cooking methods are an essential component. The culinary team avoids white flour and white sugar and focuses on fresh produce and nutrient-rich whole grains and brown rice. The resort uses a scaling system for each dish, so guests can gauge how a meal choice may make them feel. Each menu item is scored and meals with a score of five or less points are considered light.

“This visual reminder helps guests to make better food choices and as a result still feel satisfied but also feel more vibrant and not heavy or sluggish,” explained Ramon Imper, general manager of the oceanfront resort.

Retreat-inclusive guests follow a plant-based meal plan, where the multi-course meals vary in size over the course of the day. The biggest meal of the day is the first and guests can choose from such a la carte options as the Green Breakfast, a balanced serving of tofu scramble, avocado, sautéed spinach, pickled cucumber, roasted chickpeas and crispy shallots or a Protein Smoothie Bowl, a tasty blend of banana, papaya, dragon fruit, and nut and seed butters; or take in the unique buffet at the main restaurant, The Dining Room. Approximately half of what is on offer is suitable for vegetarians. TIA also offers customized, detox and regenerative meal plans.

“We never want our menus to feel restrictive,” added Ramon. “We want to create inventive, flavorful, and delicious cuisine that shows how fun healthy eating can be and how much your mind and body will thank you for it.”

Guests of the wellness-focused property who are not following a particular retreat program are encouraged to consider choices through the Eat Light, Feel Bright ranking system. For example, a Banana Blossom Salad, packed with grilled shiitake mushrooms, carrots, onion, peanuts and seasoned with chili and basil ranks as a two on the scale, while a tender pork belly dish cooked in a clay pot with shallots, salted caramel sauce, and served with steamed rice, comes in at a ranking of six. Desserts are also ranked, and the resort has rolled out a fully plant-based and sugar free dessert menu at the Ocean Bistro, one of the property’s dining outlets near the waterfront.

“We want healthy food choices to be something that is sustainable for our guests,” said Ramon. “That’s why we have a completely organic and biodynamic wine list and why we’re not a fully vegan resort. We want to inspire our guests to eat healthy, not dictate it, and we want that inspiration to continue long after they leave our property.”

To help do this TIA also recently launched healthy cooking classes, arming guests with the know-how to continue on their healthy eating path after the vacation ends. TIA offers two cooking class options: Signature Wellness Breakfast and Vietnamese Favorites. The fully plant-based breakfast cooking class covers a selection of popular dishes from the property’s abundant morning buffet, such as a tropical smoothie bowl, lemon and poppy bliss balls, coconut granola, cashew cheese and vegan pate. Guests can choose three to create during the one-hour long class. Vietnamese Favorites introduces popular dishes with TIA’s wellness spin, such as spring rolls and Vietnamese pancakes, and participants have the choice to go plant-based or include meat and seafood in their creations. Classes start at VND 950,000++ per person.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Pattern Insurance Welcomes Paul Frick as Senior VP of Sales EMEA

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Global Insurtech MGA, Pattern, is delighted to announce Paul Frick has joined the team as Senior Vice President of Sales in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. 

The former Regional Travel Leader of AXA Partners will spearhead growth in the EMEA embedded insurance market. 

Paul Frick brings a wealth of experience and was most recently responsible for the strategy and development of the travel business for AXA Partners in Northern Europe. Before this, Paul Frick has an impressive resume, including Head of Travel Central Zone Germany/Austria/Switzerland for AIG. His built-up experience in ancillary revenue management makes him the ideal fit for SVP of Sales EMEA. 

“I’ve been in the travel industry for most of my career, so joining Pattern as Senior Vice President of Sales EMEA is a perfectly natural progression for me,” says Paul Frick. “I’m thrilled to be a part of this fantastic team who are reshaping the future of insurance in travel. Embedded insurance has the potential to transform the industry in the coming years completely, and I’m delighted to be a part of that.”

Meitav Harpaz, CEO and Co-Founder of Pattern, adds, “It’s great to have Paul join the team, and his experience in the travel industry makes him the ideal fit. We’re excited about the developments in embedded insurance. It provides an opportunity for the market to evolve and embrace digital innovation. Now Paul can be a part of the journey with us.”

Along with his long list of credentials, Paul Frick is fluent in English, German and Finnish. 

Pattern Insurance is a fast-growing global InsurTech MGA that empowers online travel, recreation, and events companies to design, build and distribute innovative insurance offerings seamlessly in their customer journey. Pattern leverages emerging technology and data to create an amazing customer experience. Pattern works to eliminate all the reasons insurance gets a bad reputation. Pattern operates globally with offices in Silicon Valley, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv. Their products are integrated into leading brands, including Amadeus, Lastminute.com, Liknoss, Gulliver, Invia, Issta and Variety Cruises.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Virgin Australia Implements Sabre’s Revenue Optimizer

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Virgin Australia Implements Sabre's Revenue Optimizer - TRAVELINDEX - AIRLINEHUB.comBrisbane, Australia, March 22, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Sabre Corporation announced the successful implementation of its Revenue Optimizer and Dynamic Availability solutions at Virgin Australia. The airline is now using Sabre’s advanced technology tools to help it to quickly sense and respond to evolving market conditions with real-time data insights.

As travel recovery continues in Australia, Virgin Australia has added Sabre Revenue Management and Pricing capabilities to its technology arsenal, including:

– Dynamic Availability to help Virgin Australia quickly respond to changing market dynamics with recommendations for pricing and inventory availability based on real-time marketplace data.

– Revenue Optimizer to help Virgin Australia improve forecast accuracy and optimise demand-based pricing, with a real-time view of performance and network partner data.

“We’re operating in a very different world today than the landscape of just a few years ago,” said Dave Emerson, Chief Commercial Officer, Virgin Australia. “So, it was important to us to adopt a new approach to demand forecasting and inventory management. Using these tools enables us to intuitively analyse and respond to evolving market conditions.”

Virgin Australia carries millions of passengers each year to dozens of domestic and international destinations, including New Zealand, Indonesia and Fiji, and is using Sabre technology to help it optimise decision making while making its fares and offers available to travellers globally.

“We’re thrilled to have successfully implemented these solutions for Virgin Australia, so that they can move further into 2023 with advanced decision-making capabilities,” said Rakesh Narayanan, Vice President, Regional General Manager, Asia Pacific, Travel Solutions Airline Sales. “These tools enable Virgin Australia to make a sea-change towards enhanced airline retailing.”

About Virgin Australia
Founded in the Year 2000 by Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Australia is now one of the largest Australian airlines operating an extensive domestic network as well as short-haul international services, charter and cargo operations, and the award-winning loyalty program, Velocity Frequent Flyer. The Group employs more than 7,000 people and has been a competitor in the Australian aviation landscape for 22 years. Virgin Australia boasts more than 11 million Velocity members who can use their Points to redeem flights to over 500 destinations around the world through Virgin Australia and the airline’s extensive list of international partner carriers.

About Sabre Corporation
Sabre Corporation is a leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, serving a wide range of travel companies including airlines, hoteliers, travel agencies and other suppliers. The company provides retailing, distribution and fulfilment solutions that help its customers operate more efficiently, drive revenue and offer personalized traveller experiences. Through its leading travel marketplace, Sabre connects travel suppliers with buyers from around the globe. Sabre’s technology platform manages more than $260B worth of global travel spend annually. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Reveals Germany’s Tourism Sector’s Climate Footprint

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WTTC Reveals Germany's Tourism Sector's Climate Footprint - TRAVELINDEXBerlin, Germany, March 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Germany leads the way in reducing absolute emissions in Travel & Tourism, the sector’s GDP has grown on average 1.5% annually while greenhouse gas emissions decreased by 1.1% each year. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Saudi-based Sustainable Tourism Global Center have unveiled groundbreaking new data detailing the climate footprint of the Travel & Tourism sector in Germany.

In one of the largest research projects of its kind, WTTC can for the first time ever, accurately report and track the impact the sector has on the environment.

According to this groundbreaking new data, Germany is one of just a few major countries where Travel & Tourism has continued to grow, whilst reducing its absolute emissions.

In 2019, the sector was responsible for 10.3% of total greenhouse gas emissions across Germany.

This dropped more than four percentage points, to reach 5.9% in 2020 and 5.8% in 2021, mainly due to the reduced activity in the sector during the pandemic period.

Between 2010 and 2019, Germany’s Travel & Tourism sector decoupled its greenhouse gas emissions from its growth.

During this period, greenhouse gas emissions decreased on average by 1.1% per year, whilst Travel & Tourism’s total contribution to Germany’s economy grew 1.5% on average annually.

The figures also show that the sector’s emissions intensity continues to decrease.
In 2010, for every €1 generated by Travel & Tourism in Germany, the sector emitted 0.55 kg of greenhouse gas emissions.

In 2019, when Travel & Tourism was at its peak, this figure dropped by 22% to 0.43 kg per €1 created, and continued to fall in the following years, to a low of 0.36 kg per €1 in 2021.

This significant decline illustrates the impact of changes implemented by the German government and business leaders to create a more sustainable sector.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Our data shows that Germany is one of the few Travel & Tourism powerhouses which is decreasing its absolute emissions whilst continuing to grow year-on-year.

“The Travel & Tourism sector has decoupled its economic growth from its greenhouse gas emissions and continues to reduce its emissions intensity, but we know there is still work to be done. To reach our goals and ambitions, we must make bigger and bolder steps to reduce our absolute emissions.

“We need government support in accelerating the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuels which will have a significant impact on our footprint, as well as bringing in more renewable energy to our national grids.”

Energy Usage

The global tourism body also provides insights on the sector’s energy usage and efficiency, and shows that between 2010 and 2019, the sector’s total energy usage increased by only 0.2% annually.

This demonstrates that while Travel & Tourism continued to grow, it also became more energy efficient.

Between 2019 and 2021, the sector has reduced its energy intensity by 18.3%, highlighting the strides made by Travel & Tourism to slash energy usage.

This comprehensive research covers 185 countries across all regions and will be updated each year with the latest figures.

This research was made possible thanks to the partnership between WTTC and the Saudi-based Sustainable Tourism Global Center. Under the Saudi green Initiative, more than 60 initiatives have been launched in the past year, representing more than $186BN USD of investment in the green economy.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO at ITB Berlin Setting Priorities for Tourism

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UNWTO at ITB Berlin Setting Priorities for Tourism - TRAVELINDEXBerlin, Germany, March 20, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO returned to ITB Berlin with a clear message: Tourism is back and committed to delivering positive change that goes beyond the sector itself.

Tourism returns – why ITB matters

ITB Berlin is the world’s biggest tourism and travel trade fair. This week’s event was the first in-person ITB for four years and comes as the sector’s recovery is well underway. According to UNWTO, international tourism could reach 80 to 95% of pre-pandemic numbers by the end of the year, with 70 million international arrivals recorded in January alone (more than double the number of January 2022).

The return of ITB was heralded by UNWTO as proof of strong confidence in travel as “the ultimate barometer of trust”. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili was invited to officially open the event, alongside Germany’s Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, Berlin Mayor Franziska Giffey, and public and private sector leaders.

Education and Investment: Key Priorities for Tourism

At the official ITB opening, UNWTO reinforced the importance of education, training and investments for tourism’s ability to deliver on its potential.

In Berlin, UNWTO announced a new partnership that will see the Organization work with Saudi Arabia to promote education and professional development in tourism.

Alongside this, UNWTO also signed a new agreement with the Business School of Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts to partner towards the creation of a new Bachelor of Science degree in International Sustainable Tourism.

The key message of investing in people was also stressed as UNWTO took part in a special Industry Roundtable. The event built on UNWTO’s status as the bridge between the public and private sectors. Recognizing the vital need for more and better-targeted investments to put transformative plans into action, UNWTO also confirmed that World Tourism Day 2023 will be celebrated around the theme of “Tourism and Green Investments”.

Accelerating tourism climate action

Against the backdrop of ITB Berlin, UNWTO released a new report highlighting the progress that global tourism has made in measuring greenhouse gas emissions. “Climate Action in the Tourism Sector” was developed by UNWTO with support from the German Government and in collaboration with UN Climate Change (UNFCCC). The recommendations will help ensure more reliable measurements of GHG emissions towards fulfilling the commitments of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.

Tourism for all

ITB 2023 coincided with International Women’s Day. To mark the occasion, UNWTO was joined by UN Women to present a summary of the achievements of the “Centre Stage: Women’s empowerment during the COVID-19 recovery” project. The initiative made clear the extent to which women working in tourism were particularly impacted by the pandemic. And while tourism remains a leading employer of women, UNWTO and UN Women jointly stress that the sector is still to deliver on its women’s empowerment potential.

Finally, to further advance the diversification of the sector and the growth of areas that can deliver new benefits, a special UNWTO Roundtable Discussion on “Connecting Sports Tourism to Health” was held at ITB ahead of the 2nd World Sports Tourism Congress in Zadar, Croatia (26-27 April).

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Pullman Hotels Debuts in Singapore

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Pullman Hotels Debuts in Singapore - TRAVELINDEX - VISITSINGAPORE.orgSingapore, Singapore, March 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Pullman Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Pullman Singapore Orchard, marking the brand’s debut in one of the world’s most iconic gateway cities. Located on Orchard Road, the famous retail district, this modern and stylish hotel will allow guests to balance business and leisure in this vibrant destination. As the ultimate playground for today’s new entrepreneurs, Pullman Singapore Orchard marries progressive, vibrant design with intuitive and seamless hospitality to inspire minds and energize bodies.

Surrounded by major retail malls, leading fashion labels and global brands, Pullman Singapore Orchard will put guests in the city’s commercial heart. Orchard and Somerset MRT stations are only moments away, and Changi International Airport can be conveniently reached in just 20 minutes.

“Singapore is a trendsetting city that has evolved from an Asian economic hub into a vibrant global tourism destination. This makes it the perfect setting for our Pullman brand, which has a history that dates back more than 150 years and now attracts a new generation of digital nomads, millennial globetrotters, and business professionals. Pullman Singapore Orchard will deliver bold and creative stays, surrounded by world-class dining and shopping venues,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer of Accor, Southeast Asia, Japan & South Korea.

Taking its cue from its metropolitan location, Pullman Singapore Orchard’s signature spaces are designed to celebrate the fashion powerhouses that surround it. On arrival, guests can enjoy a fully contactless check-in via the hotel’s mobile app and digital room keys. The 326 innovative, fashion-inspired rooms and suites come in nine configurations, ranging from the Classic Rooms to the Presidential Suite, and are fully automated so guests can customize every part of the ambiance, including the lighting and temperature. Smart TVs with screen casting provide endless entertainment options and guests can access all the hotel’s services via a dedicated app. In addition, a selection of Club Residence Rooms will offer access to the hotel’s Archive Club, a multi-purpose Executive Lounge with pockets for work, relaxation and social interaction. Families are welcomed with guaranteed inter-connecting rooms.

As the heartbeat of Pullman Singapore Orchard, level 4 of the hotel houses dining and social destinations. Eden Restaurant is proud to celebrate the diverse flavors of Asia with a modern twist. Set in a stunning, light-filled glasshouse, guests can dine in the backdrop of high-energy, live cooking stations. Also in the spotlight are well-crafted beverages that pay homage to Asian traditions with an exciting selection inspired by tropical destinations such as Bali, Borocay, and Phuket. Ideal for a coffee meeting or a post-work cocktail, the Atelier Lounge is a thoughtfully curated lifestyle space meticulously decorated with fashion-inspired artifacts. The first-of-its-kind in Orchard Road, the P.S.O. Beach Club offers guests the chance to relax and space to perform at their best, with ambient music, cozy cabanas, sun beds, a striking pool and a swim-up pool bar.

Named after iconic fashion destinations, Pullman Singapore Orchard’s “MEET/PLAY” spaces – New York, Paris and Shanghai – are designed to fuel creativity, encourage interaction and unlock new opportunities. Equipped with the latest technology, these dynamic spaces set the stage for a new generation of hybrid meetings, corporate events, team-building activities or social events such as evening cocktails or weddings.

When they are not working, shopping or exploring the city, guests can unleash their athletic energy at the fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool. In-Room Fitness Kit are also available.

One of the world’s most iconic gateway cities and a global centre of commerce, Singapore is a key market for Accor, which now operates 29 hotels and resorts in the Lion City. The debut of the Pullman brand will introduce a new era of individuality, exploration and expression to business and leisure travelers alike.

“For today’s new entrepreneurs, the lines between work and play are increasingly blurred. At Pullman Singapore Orchard, we have created the ultimate playground for this multi-hyphenate audience. Whether dining, drinking, working or sleeping, we’ve got all bases covered. We can’t wait to show Singapore what Pullman is about,” added Rob McIntyre, General Manager of Pullman Singapore Orchard.

About Pullman
Pullman Hotels & Resorts sets a new tempo in global travel and living, delivering an inspiring, energizing and enriching experience to new entrepreneurs. Pullman welcomes guests with the space they need to focus, work and play. Forward-thinking, hyper-connected and with a passion for art and fitness, Pullman retains the adventurous spirit and open-minded ambition that drove it to become a pioneering travel brand over 150 years ago. Today, Pullman features more than 140 properties in vibrant and cosmopolitan destinations around the world, including flagship properties such as Pullman Paris Bercy, Pullman Suzhou Zhonghui in Greater China and Pullman Maldives Maamutaa. Pullman is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,300 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Niyama Announces Surf Residency with Brad Gerlach

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Niyama Announces Surf Residency with Brad Gerlach - TRAVELINDEX - VISITMALDIVES.orgOlhuveli, Kudahuvadhoo Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives, March 20,2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Niyama Private Islands, the only luxury resort in the Maldives with its own wave breaking onto the shore, has two exciting upcoming surf initiatives. 1991 World # 2 pro surfer & Wave-Ki founder, Brad Gerlach, will be in residence at the resort from March 16th to April 19th to offer coaching sessions of his original and proprietary teaching methodology – Wave-Ki. During Brad’s residency, the in-house surf guides will become accredited Wave-Ki instructors, as taught by Brad, and will then continue the service at Niyama.

Niyama is home to two islands – Play and Chill, which are connected by a bridge. Vodi wave is just off the shore of Play Island and is a powerful and sometimes hollow left hander. Off to the west and five minutes away by speedboat, Kasabu is a rippable and hollow right hander. Up to four other waves in the local vicinity are also available, with nine other spots available with trans-atoll adventures in the resort’s 2×350 HP speedboat – Sea Breeze. Surfing can be enjoyed year-round at Niyama with bigger surf from March to November and no crowds.

For those aspiring to surf, learning to surf at Niyama is available all year, with in-house surf guides offering lessons to guests. Begin in the flat-water lagoon to learn surf mechanics & safety procedures, before hitting the channel wave with the guide to catch your very own ride. Guides will instruct in the footfalls of the best, with Brad Gerlach offering expert guidance, which can continue at home with a 25% discount on an annual membership to Wave-Ki available exclusively for Niyama guests.

Brad Gerlach is a professional surfer who finished #2 in the world in 1991 after dominating the leader board for the majority of the year. Brad developed Wave-Ki, his proprietary surf instruction programme, which is unique in that its approach is entirely land based, with a martial art-like focus on slow, precise movements, creating kinaesthetic motor memory for improved surfing once one hits the waves. The programme course is online and offers recorded guided videos, live session videos, regular open forum Q&A sessions, plus the option for 1-1 sessions with Brad via online facetime. Brad uses Wave-Ki to coach current pro-surfers, such as Parker Coffin, and works with many other aspiring pros, as well as every day bros looking to improve.

Whilst at Niyama, Brad will offer private land-based Wave-Ki sessions, as well as public group sessions at PUMP studio, overlooking the lagoon. Also, Brad will offer both private and family in-water surf coaching to compliment Wave-Ki performed on land. Many packages will include an annual membership. Land based group classes begin at USD 96 net, with private Wave-Ki land-based classes beginning at USD 319 net per person/per 45 minutes, and private in-water surf coaching beginning at USD 447 net per person/per hour.

After a day’s surfing, guests can hang out with Brad and other surfers at the Surf Shack with its bright red food truck, bean bags to relax on, and a reggae music soundtrack. The perfect spot for sundowners, the Surf Shack serves rum cocktails and gourmet snack food, such as poached prawns, chorizo hotdogs, tacos, burritos and truffle fries with churros to wrap up.

If guests need any surf clothing items, they can purchase at two new locations at Niyama – the new Rip Curl Boutique overlooking the wave at Vodi, or the Rip Curl Tech shop alongside the dive centre. For holiday memories, Niyama offers Chill and Play branded retail items such as boardshorts, rash guards, caps, bucket hats, face zinc, and a Niyama Surf Coffee table book.

Niyama Private Islands offers a collection of 134 villas, suites and pavilions, many with their own private pool, dotting along the beaches of both islands and extending out over the lagoon. The laid-back resort offers an abundance of space and privacy and a multitude of experiences tailored to adventurous honeymooners, active couples and style-savvy families.

Niyama Private Islands is 40-minute shared seaplane flight from Male or a 30-minute domestic flight to Dhaalu Airport. Nightly rates start from USD 730 based on two sharing a Beach Villa with breakfast and dinner including taxes and fees. Surf photo packages with Junior Garcia, the resident Surf Photographer, start from around USD 249 per private hour, or USD 489 for a seven-day package; and trips on Sea Breeze with a guide start from USD 385 per person for a six-hour trip.

About Niyama Private Islands Maldives
Niyama Private Islands Maldives offers more than a luxury retreat in the Maldives. Going beyond conventional concepts of lavish accommodation, sumptuous cuisines, and personalised service, Niyama Private Islands Maldives presents every visitor with myriad opportunities to create their own exceptional island experience. With twin islands Play and Chill, Niyama Private Islands Maldives offers guests the true luxury of choice. The Chill island is true to its name, offering new depths of relaxation at the Drift Spa, entertainment under the stars at the outdoor cinema, fine dining experience offshore at Edge and so much more. While the Play Island provides delightful diversions for those looking for more active pursuits.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News