Global Travel News

ROUND-UP:Feb. 06-10, 2022

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Border measures are easing around the world, though not in Canada (yet); Royal Caribbean floated out and Cunard named their latest ships; plus, in other news from last week, Air Canada unveiled some Disney fun, Insight revealed its new specialist program, and Globus incentives were introduced, including the chance to win a free cruise from Avalon Waterways.

NEWS

The Association of Canadian Independent Travel Advisors (ACITA) has initiated an official e-Petition, which is now open on the Parliament of Canada website, calling for the end of pre-arrival PCR testing requirements for international arrivals to Canada. Travel agents and industry colleagues are invited to sign and agents are encouraged to share the document with clients as well. The officially sponsored petition #e-3835 will remain open to be signed through March 10 and can be accessed HERE.

Recent research in the UK indicates that a booking boom occurred in that country immediately after mandatory COVID-19 tests for vaccinated travellers were eliminated. The data supports urgent pleas from across the Canadian travel and tourism industry for the government here to do the same. Conducted by ForwardKeys, the research reveals that combined inbound and outbound flight bookings jumped to 84% of pre-pandemic (2019) levels after the UK government’s announcement on Jan. 24. Outbound bookings increased 106% and inbound 47%.

The Philippines has lifted a nearly two-year ban on foreign travellers in a lifesaving boost for its tourism and related industries as an omicron-fuelled surge eases. Foreign travellers from 157 countries with visa-free arrangements with the Philippines who have been fully vaccinated and tested negative for the virus will be welcomed back and will no longer be required to quarantine upon arrival.

BORDERS

New COVID-19 protocols in Bermuda will come into effect March 7. All visitors will be required to show proof of current vaccination status (second dose within six months, or three doses of the vaccine) and a negative COVID-19 test result (antigen or PCR) taken within two days of arriving on the island, however no further testing will be required upon arrival unless required for return to the country of origin, in which case Bermuda will automatically schedule and provide return testing to travellers. Travellers will also need to complete a Travellers Authorization form 24 to 48 hours prior to arrival in Bermuda.

Australia will open its borders to all vaccinated tourists and business travellers on Feb. 21 – nearly two years after closing its border and imposing some of the world’s toughest travel restrictions on its citizens and permanent residents to prevent them from bringing COVID-19 home.

AIR

Swoop plans to increase its fleet to 16 aircraft from 10 beginning this summer. The acquisition of six new Boeing MAX-8 aircraft will enable the ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) to meet peak season travel demand, says the airline, which will also significantly expand its domestic network, adding non-stop flights to Newfoundland and increasing service in Atlantic Canada.

A steamed WestJet has cancelled 20% of its flights in March, extending schedule cuts from February amid ongoing COVID-19 restrictions and uncertainty that continue to drain demand. Calling the cuts “avoidable,” WestJet is urging the government to provide a roadmap to Canadians for the return of accessible and affordable that notably eases restrictions such as pre-travelling testing and quarantine.

Frontier is offering to buy Spirit Airlines in a US$2.9 billion cash-and-stock deal that would close in the second half of the year if approved by regulators and Spirit shareholders. The “tie-up” of the low-cost carriers would create the fifth largest airline in the US.

BY THE NUMBERS

Since early November, WestJet and budget subsidiary Swoop have cancelled 11,285 trips for March, or 48% of their scheduled flights. Air Canada has scrapped 16,617 or 41% since mid-October, according to flight data firm Cirium.

DEALS

The “Tale a Beach Break’ promo from Transat offers up to 40% off new individual bookings made between by Feb. 20. The sale applies to flights to Europe, for travel be April 30, 2022. Exceptions apply.

Coinciding with its new protocols (mentioned above), Bermuda’s ‘Pink Sale’ promotion, offering savings on participating accommodation of up to 50%, has been extended until Feb. 20.

TOURS

TravelBrands Encore Cruises has a new cruise line partner, Tradewind Voyages – a luxury small ship cruise line that sails without using main propulsion engines, thereby giving guests an authentic sailing experience. Global itineraries feature smaller locations accessible by virtue of the ship’s smaller size. Travel agents who book a Tradewind Voyages sailing through TravelBrands will earn 2,000 Loyalty Rewards points per stateroom.

For a limited time, Aeroplan members can earn bonus Status Qualifying Dollars (SQD) and Status Qualifying Miles (SQM) when booking an Air Canada Vacations flight-inclusive package with their travel agent for travel through April 30, 2022. Bonus SQD earned are equal to 50% of the total package price and extends to group bookings. Plus, additional Bonus SQM can be earned depending on a customer’s Aeroplan EliteTM Status.

CRUISE
Carnival Cruise Line’s next new ship ‘Carnival Celebration’ was floated out at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, signifying a major step in her construction, before moving to the shipyard’s outfitting pier to prepare it for sea trial in the summer and delivery in the fall. The Celebration is the second of three Excel-class ships, joining Mardi Gras, already sailing from Port Canaveral, Fla., and Carnival Jubilee, set to sail from Galveston, Texas in 2023.

Cunard has named its newest ship – the ‘Queen Anne’ – which will sail in 2024, with sales set to start in May. The vessel will be the 249th in the cruise line’s historic fleet and will mark the first time since 1999 that the company will have four ships at sea (including Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth).

HOTELS

In Los Angeles, the Beverly Hills Hotel has revealed a fresh redesign, featuring 11 new poolside retreats. Decked out in pink, the new poolside cabanas present the perfect stay for visitors looking to turn back time to Hollywood’s Golden Age. The hotel is known for being featured in many classic films and its celebrity clientele, past and present.

IHG Hotels and Resorts has opened its first voco hotel in Germany – voco Dusseldorft Seestern. Located in the Lörick district of the city, the hotel is a premium option for those visiting Dusseldorf for business or leisure, located within walking to distance to the banks of the Rhine River and a short drive from the airport and the city’s main shopping and business districts.

RESORTS

Clients booking at stay any all Secrets, Dreams, Breathless, Zoëtry, Sunscape, or Now resorts by March 29, when travelling through Aug. 20, 2022, are eligible for 40% savings on room rates, as well as $200 in resort coupons, through the AMR Collection “Welcome Home” promotion. Kids also stay free at participating resorts.

Travellers can save up to 30% and receive a daily $30 resort credit at The Reef Atlantis on Paradise Island, Bahamas for stays of seven nights and more. Booking window is through March 31, 2022, for travel until March 31, 2023.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

Billed as “going beyond anything Disney has created before,” “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser” will take flight March 1 at Walt Disney World in Orlando. The innovative two-night vacation experience invites guests to “become the heroes” of their own Star Wars story, which interweaves with members of the crew, other passengers, droids, and familiar Star Wars characters such as Rey, Chewbacca and Kylo Ren. Included are accommodation, meals, and onboard activities.

EDUCATION

The Insight Specialist eLearning course is new and improved. The course is now streamlined into one learning path with three modules, which travel advisors can choose to complete in the order most relevant to their needs. Suited to both novice or existing specialists, the course will provide sales tips, the latest offerings and more, says the company. Successful participants also earn eligibility for Insight Vacations fam tours and receive a certificate to show clients.

FAMS & INCENTIVES
As part the Air Canada’s collaboration with Disney and Pixar, the carrier will be promoting the new film “Turning Red” through a themed livery (photo) that will fly across the country on a Canadian built Airbus A220. The animated film is set in Toronto and directed by Academy Award winner and Canadian Domee Shi. Passengers can see a special video onboard and the airline is conducting a contest through Feb. 20 offering five prize packages, each featuring a trip for four people to Toronto to attend the Canadian premiere of the film on March 8. Enter HERE.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the Globus family of brands wants to celebrate travel advisors’ sales successes with a plethora of incentives, including weekly prizes and a free Avalon Waterways cruise in 2022. Running from Feb. 14 through April 1, the ‘Just Say “YES!”’ booking contest awards travel advisors one entry for every passenger booked during the booking window. Winners will be announced weekly. Visit Agentlingo for details.

EVENTS

ACTA has posted a “save the date” notice for members to attend the association’s in-person conferences in September – Toronto on the 14th, Vancouver on the 21st, and Montreal on the 28th. Also on the calendar is a return of the annual ACTA Ontario Golf Tournament at the Royal Ontario Golf Club in Milton on Thursday, July 14, with proceeds going to help support the Tourism Cares Charity and the ACTA Advocacy Fund. Questions about ACTA 2022 in-person events can be addressed to Marco Pozzobon at mpozzobon@acta.ca.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

In response to the workforce shortage impacting British Columbia’s hospitality industry, the British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) has, for the first time in it’s 105-year-old history, created an administrative position dedicated to recruitment. New “workforce specialist” Alison Langford will lead both domestic and international recruitment efforts for the accommodation sector, developing new hiring opportunities and strengthening existing initiatives with partner organizations.

DESTINATIONS

Israel has approved a US$35 million upgrade to the Western Wall in Jerusalem, one the country’s most iconic and visited sites. The plan aims to encourage more visits to the site by improving public transportation accessibility, developing new educational programs, and continuing existing development projects.

After touring worldwide for 15 years, the Kinsey African American Art & History Collection returns to Los Angeles at SoFi Stadium (site of the Super Bowl) on Feb. 23. The collection is considered one of the largest, most comprehensive of its kind with over 9,300 sq. m. of art, sculptures, photographs, rare books, and letters. The collection documents the African American experience and illuminates the untold stories of Black Excellence throughout US history, focussing on the lives, accomplishments of African Americans from the 16th century through the years of slavery and emancipation to the civil rights movement and modern day.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Carlton Hotel Bangkok Celebrates Second Anniversary

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Carlton Hotel Bangkok Celebrates Second Anniversary - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, February 14, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit is celebrating their second anniversary in Thailand. To mark this special occasion, the hotel is offering an exclusive Cantonese Wine Dinner and special room promotion at THB 2,222 net per night.

Book and stay from now until 28 February 2022

This outstanding room rate is for a 1-night stay in a Deluxe Room including the following benefits:
● Up to 2 adults on a room only basis
● 2 for 1 when purchasing add-on breakfast (breakfast rate at THB 590++)
● 2 glasses of Bubbles at Tuxedo Espresso Bar
● 2 nights consecutive stay receives a complimentary room upgrade to an Executive room
● 20% discount at hotel restaurants and bars, except Wah Lok at 10%
● 20% discount on room supplement charge from Deluxe room to an Executive Suite
● 2 children complimentary stay, aged below 12 sharing existing bed with parents
● 2:00 pm late check out

For guests booking the 2Anniversary2gether room package and check-in on 19 February 2022, they stand a chance to win a free night stay in Deluxe Room with breakfast for two, Tuxedo Afternoon Tea set and dining cash vouchers.

2nd Anniversary Celebratory Dinner at Wah Lok

The one-night only celebration marks Carlton’s 2nd Anniversary. An exclusive 5-course wine dinner featuring wines from France, Germany and Chile paired with MICHELIN Guide Cantonese cuisine from Wah Lok.

The menu is specially created by Chef Lam Kok Weng and his passionate team. Dinner begins with Crispy Prawns and Deep-fried Pork Loin with Garlic in Superior Sauce followed by Signature Wah Lok Peking Duck, Spicy Lemongrass Infused Baked Norwegian Salmon, Sautéed Australian Beef Tenderloin. Special dessert for the evening is Deep-Fried Sesame Ball with Osmanthus Cake.

Priced at THB 2,222++ per person
Saturday 19 February 2022, 6:00 pm onwards at Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant

For further information or reservations, please contact +66 2 090 7888

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Travel and Rewards Cryptocurrency Company Raises Millions

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Travel and Rewards Cryptocurrency Company Raises Millions - TOP25TOKEN.com - TRAVELINDEXAnchorage, Alaska, United States, February 14, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / FlyCoin, Inc., a cryptocurrency-based travel rewards technology company announces today the closing of their oversubscribed $33 million seed round. FlyCoin’s revolutionary technology infrastructure provides companies in the consumer loyalty space – including travel and hospitality, insurance and benefits, financial services, and more, with a powerful, turnkey solution to incentivize users in a more customer-centric way. Users can earn FlyCoin’s newly minted token, FLY, reward that appreciates in value, doesn’t expire, is easily transferable, and has an abundance of redemption options.

The round was led by Josh Jones, a Los Angeles-based entrepreneur and Bitcoin pioneer, best known for founding Bitcoin Builder in 2012. In addition to his role as FlyCoin’s Board Chairman and anchor investor, Mr. Jones will oversee the development of FlyCoin’s technology platform. Other investors in this Seed round include Michael Blend (CEO & Co-Founder of System1), Bill Foley (Chairman of Fidelity National Financial, Dun & Bradstreet, and Cannae Holdings), TenOneTen Ventures, 8VC, Liquid 2, and Gaingels.

“The travel and rewards industry will exceed 1.4 trillion dollars by 2023. With figures like those, it’s time to bring smarter rewards to the people who make the industry as successful as it is: the travelers. FlyCoin is the next generation of digital rewards, and the evolution of a decades-old industry; one that is past due for a digital transformation.” stated Josh Jones.

FlyCoin’s partners include Ravn Alaska and Northern Pacific Airways (“NP”). Ravn Alaska is a regional airline currently operating flights within the state of Alaska, where travelers can already start earning FLY on all paid flights with the airline.

“The rewards and benefits industry, across verticals, has remained stagnant and limited with how it has been rewarding customer loyalty, until today.” explains Lenny Moon, CEO of FlyCoin. “FlyCoin is progressing the industry forward by rewarding customers with a cryptocurrency where the issuer can not dictate the rules of expiration or intentionally depreciate its value. We are grateful for the engaged support from our investor base. We plan to aggressively build out the platform and secure additional partners to start growing the FLY ecosystem.”

“At FlyCoin, we’re transforming the loyalty and rewards space with ‘crypto-as-a-service’ and a SaaS solution for easy implementation” added Tom Hsieh, Co-Founder & President of FlyCoin.

FLY tokens are minted on the Ethereum blockchain using the ERC-20 protocol, with a fixed supply of 100 billion. FLY is currently not tradeable on the cryptocurrency exchanges, but plans to initiate its tradability on the various cryptocurrency exchanges in 2022.

About FlyCoin, Inc.
FlyCoin represents the evolution of loyalty programs where the Company has applied the principles of cryptocurrency and blockchain to create a new kind of loyalty program that is free from the limitations of today’s programs. Set to launch in Q3 of 2022, the release of the FlyCoin consumer-facing app and API for partnership integrations will be released.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Pioneer of the All-Inclusive Concept Will Open 17 New Resorts by 2024

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Pioneer of the All-Inclusive Concept Will Open 17 New Resorts by 2024 - TRAVELINDEXParis, France, February 14, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Club Med, the pioneer of the all-inclusive concept for more than 70 years, will open 17 new resorts by 2024. The new openings, along with Club Med’s destination-forward experiences, digital innovations, and new product novelties, will further solidify the brand as the leader in the booming all-inclusive market for families and upscale travelers. With such a wide range of locations and activities to choose from, Club Med invites guests to write their own vacation stories, emphasizing that “when everything is included, all you need to add are the memories.”

“Since 1950, Club Med has continued to shape the all-inclusive industry by introducing new destinations and experiences to travelers worldwide,” says Carolyne Doyon, President & CEO of Club Med North America and the Caribbean. “Throughout our 72-year history, we’ve successfully adapted our portfolio to appeal to upscale travelers and families, as well as demonstrated our leadership in the all-inclusive mountain experience. Maintaining our ambitious expansion plan, we are on track to open 17 new resorts, as well as complete 13 renovations or extensions of existing resorts, by 2024.”

Some of the upcoming openings, renovations, and upgrades from Club Med include:

– Ambitious Expansion Plans + Introducing All-Inclusive Ski to North America
– Despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Club Med continued its expansion momentum in 2021 with four resort openings, including Club Med Seychelles (Africa), Club Med Lijiang (China), Club Med Québec (Canada), and Club Med La Rosière (French Alps). The brand also completed four renovations, including Club Med Albion (Mauritius), Club Med Peisey-Vallandry (French Alps), Club Med Pragelato-Sestriere (Italian Alps), and Club Med Marrakech (Morocco).

Club Med has also established its commitment to further expanding its all-inclusive mountain product to new markets with the forthcoming December 2024 opening of Club Med Utah. This property will be the brand’s first new resort in the U.S. in more than 20 years, as well as its first-ever Exclusive Collection (5-Star) mountain resort in North America, which will be open year-round. Club Med’s Exclusive Collection portfolio, which features 13 of the brand’s most luxurious resorts and spaces around the world, is characterized by premium accommodations, exclusively beautiful locations, and refined dining concepts. Of the 30 development projects in the works for Club Med over the next two years, several of them will feature new additions to the Exclusive Collection portfolio, well-suited for both families and couples.

As the worldwide leader of the all-inclusive family vacation continues its global expansion through 2024, some of the upcoming opening, extension, and renovation highlights include:

North America & Caribbean
– Club Med Utah, USA (2024)
The brand’s renowned all-inclusive mountain concept will be expanding to the United States with an Exclusive Collection (5-Star) resort in Snowbasin, Utah. Located 35 miles from Salt Lake City, the Snowbasin resort is one of the most accessible and oldest operating ski resorts in North America. The 320-room four season resort will combine American luxury with Club Med’s French savoir-faire, appealing to every type of traveler including families, couples, and meetings & events groups. Accommodations will include spacious 2-bedroom Deluxe rooms & Family Suites, while private Penthouse Suites will be available for those seeking added luxury. Club Med will also offer its award-winning children’s clubs from 4 months to 17 years old for families seeking a more tailored, family-fun experience. In addition to all-day dining available at the resort’s restaurants and lounges, guests can also enjoy included group ski and snowboard lessons with ski-in/ ski-out access, lift tickets, and a heated swimming pool during the ski season. During the warmer months, there will be opportunities to explore more than 3,000 acres of surrounding mountains and valleys through guided activities like hiking programs, mountain biking, and Club Med’s trademark circus activities.

Europe
– Club Med Magna Marbella, Spain (May 2022)
Located 45 minutes from the Malaga International Airport in the Andalusia region of Spain, Club Med has retaken one of Spain’s most mythic destinations to open a brand-new resort. With a focus on the cultural and natural richness of southern Spain, the resort will mix tradition and modernity to offer an experience focused on wellness, nature, family experiences, and discovery of the destination. Guests will find unique features in the 485-room resort, such as a family fun zone, garden parties, 14 hectares of Andalusian gardens, a Club Med Spa by Cinq Mondes, and five different swimming areas.

– Club Med Tignes, French Alps (Dec. 2022)
A historic destination that has been home to Club Med since 1958, Tignes Val Claret is a natural sports paradise located at an altitude of 2,150 meters. The brand-new Club Med Tignes resort will be located in the center of the liveliest part of town, making it a hotspot for winter sports and nightlife. The resort will feature 430 rooms, including 25 Exclusive Collection (5-Star) suites, two restaurants, a full spa and wellness salt wall, the largest Club Med pool in the Alps, a full childcare program, and a ski domain suitable for every level.

– Club Med Val d’Isère, French Alps (Dec. 2022)
Located in the Tarentaise Valley at an altitude of 1,850 meters, this authentic village is home to an internationally-recognized ski mecca. The resort is undergoing a complete transformation worthy of its soon-to-be Exclusive Collection designation. As such, it will be the brand’s first entirely 5-Star mountain resort, with a total of 216 rooms available for booking in both winter and summer. As well as offering fabulous skiing, gourmet dining, childcare starting at age 4, and a welcoming spa and yoga program, the resort will redefine luxury by combining intimacy, conviviality, and relaxation.

– Club Med San Sicario, Italian Alps (Dec. 2024)
A new addition to Club Med’s mountain portfolio in the Italian Alps, the bi-seasonal Club Med San Sicario, will feature 200 rooms located on a prime ski location from the 2006 Turin Olympics.

– Extension – Club Med Pragelato-Sestriere, Italian Alps (2022)
Nestled in the Piedmont region of Italy, Club Med’s Pragelato Sestriere resort consists of a hamlet of wooden chalets. The expansion plan will include 17 new chalets housing 105 new rooms. Construction will be completed following the architectural style of the region.

– Renovation & Extension – Club Med Gregolimano, Greece (2023)
One of the brand’s flagship summer resorts in the Mediterranean Basin, located on the Greek Island of Evia, will undergo both a renovation and extension including newly renovated beachfront bungalows.

Asia
– Renovation & Extension – Club Med Phuket, Thailand (2023-2024)
Visitors traveling to Club Med Phuket, located on Kata Beach, can look forward to newly refreshed facilities and experiences aimed at recreating an authentic Thai atmosphere for everyone. Enhanced with an eco-chic, modern, and upscale twist, the refreshed resort spaces will include a redesign of the main restaurant, meetings & events center, pool and sun deck, and more.

– Club Med Hokkaido, Japan (2023)
Following the success of its two other mountain resorts in Japan, Club Med will open a third property on the northern island of Hokkaido. Known as one of Asia’s top travel destinations, Hokkaido offers a fun-filled family experience, perfectly powdered snow for skiing and trekking, natural landscapes, and local culinary delights.

– Club Med Borneo Kota Kinabalu, Malayasia (Opening 2024)
Adding to its portfolio in Southeast Asia, Club Med will build a new resort on the Malaysian side of the island of Borneo. The destination is known for its beaches, biodiverse rainforest, Mount Kinabalu (Southeast Asia’s highest peak), famed dive site Sipadan Island, and native species such as orangutans and clouded leopards. This forthcoming resort embodies Club Med’s pioneering spirit, as it will bring a brand-new resort to a secluded destination.

Dedication to Sustainable Practices
Since its inception, Club Med has held a firm belief that memorable experiences cannot be lived at the expense of others or of nature, which is why the brand continues to devote itself to responsible practices. Club Med’s Happy to Care program, founded in 2019, features a range of commitments based on sustainable tourism.

For example, Club Med’s two newest resorts in North America, Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda and Club Med Québec, were designed with sustainability in mind, from the design phase all the way to the resort experience. Today, Club Med’s worldwide objectives to address sustainable practices include:

– Phased elimination of single-use plastics, including water bottles
– Eco-certifications from the best in the industry: BREEAM certification ensuring responsible construction and Green Globe certification ensuring a responsible hotel operation
– Construction of new resorts in harmony with nature, with built-up surfaces covering less than 10% of the total site surface
– Reduction of energy consumption and introduction of green energy sources
– Responsible, local, and ethical sourcing of food products and materials
– Employee uniforms created out of recycled plastic bottles; since 2019, 2.3 million bottles have been recycled for this initiative in North America, with 1.2 million more expected to be recycled by 2023
– Sponsorship of rural farming development projects to increase the efficiency, quality, and demand for local farmers
– Promotion of animal welfare by prohibiting experiences involving captive cetaceans, large cats, and elephants
– Food waste and hazardous waste management
– Community outreach via the Club Med Foundation, founded in 1978
– Partnerships with organizations focused on environmental preservation
– Happy To Care continues its purposeful objectives in 2022 to achieve the above ambitions. Looking ahead, Club Med’s North American resorts will see more ecological menu options featuring plant-based proteins and an increase in both local and organic products. Club Med North America has also set an objective to source 100% fair trade coffee by 2023 and 100% cage-free eggs by 2025.

New Product Novelties and Digital Innovations

New Programming For Teens
As family travel evolves, Club Med is enhancing its existing teen programming (Club Med Passworld for teens ages 11–17). Club Med’s new teen program will feature unique activities and social-forward events that give teens the opportunity to have exciting vacation moments and experiential content to share online. As part of this new programming, teens will also be able to take part in Club Med’s Happy To Care CSR mission. The pilot program is launching this spring in Club Med Punta Cana and Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda.

New Resort Experiences
Over the past year, numerous studies have shown that travelers are eager to get outdoors in destinations that offer plenty of room to roam, are prioritizing health and wellness, and are interested in vacation options that cater to the entire family. With this market research in mind, Club Med enhanced its existing resort experiences, including:

– Circus School by Club Med, an acrobatic playground with activities like flying trapeze, tightrope walking, and aerial silk in Club Med Punta Cana
– New and/or upgraded pickleball courts in all resorts in Florida, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Coast of Mexico
– Club Med Amazing Family Program, a fun-filled agenda of weekly activities designed to help families bond and reconnect, launched in all resorts across Florida, the Caribbean, and Mexico
– Club Med Spa by Sothys opened in three resorts including Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Club Med Québec, and Club Med Ixtapa Pacific
– Wing foil watersport activity in Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda
– All-day yoga programming in Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda and Club Med Québec, with planned expansion to other North American resorts
– The “sunset ritual”, a weekly lifestyle experience on the beach in Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, with planned expansion to Club Med Cancun and Club Med Ixtapa Pacific
– New dining concepts in existing resorts:
– “Lucky Lime”, an all-day Mexican taqueria at Club Med Sandpiper Bay
– “From Jungle to Table”, a sustainable dining concept at the Coco Plum Beach Lounge in Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda
– “Altamar”, a premium seafood restaurant in Club Med Punta Cana
– “Le Chalet”, a gourmet lounge in Club Med Québec featuring locally-sourced, family-style dinners “a la bonne franquette” – meaning cozy, friendly, and without any fuss

Digital Innovation
Touchless travel and contactless amenities are critical. To ensure guests feel well prepared and taken care of before and during their vacation, Club Med continues to enhance its digital, touch-free offerings. In 2021, Club Med’s Easy Arrival contactless check-in/check-out service, which prepares guests to get vacation-ready before vacation begins, was deployed in all Club Med resorts in Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Through the app, guests can sign their children up for childcare services or book ski equipment before they arrive to their respective Club Med resort. The My Club Med app features options to create a personalized itinerary, preview the daily activity schedules and, launched in 2021, guests can now book spa appointments at Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Club Med Québec, and Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda. In 2021, the “room ready” feature was also deployed in North America, so guests can be conveniently informed upon check-in when their room is ready.

About Club Med
Club Med, founded in 1950 by Gérard Blitz, is the pioneer of the all-inclusive concept, offering approximately 70 premium resorts in stunning locations around the world including North and South America, Caribbean, Asia, Africa, Europe and the Mediterranean. Each Club Med resort features authentic local style and comfortably upscale accommodations, superior sports programming and activities, enriching children’s programs, gourmet dining, and warm and friendly service by its world-renown staff with legendary hospitality skills, an all-encompassing energy and diverse backgrounds.

Club Med operates in more than 30 countries and continues to maintain its authentic Club Med spirit with an international staff of more than 23,000 employees from more than 110 different nationalities. Led by its pioneering spirit, Club Med continues to grow and adapt to each market with three to five new resort openings or renovations per year, including a new Alpine ski resort annually.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bali and Beyond Travel 2022 as Hybrid Event

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Bali and Beyond Travel 2022 as Hybrid Event - VISITBALI.org - TRAVELINDEXBali, Indonesia, February 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / In light of the current situation the BBTF Committee regrets to announce that BBTF 2022 will once again have to be a hybrid event combining online and offline face to face events. BBTF 2022 will be an online only event for international participants. Both online and offline meetings will be available for domestic participants. Only vaccinated or recovered visitors or exhibitors will be allowed to attend in person.

We’re in this together. We need to strike a balance between protecting health and mitigating the social and economic consequences of this pandemic. The decision to change management from offline to online virtual this year event was not easy, but definitely right, Mr. I Putu Winastra S.SOS – new Chairman of the Board, and the head of Committee BBTF 2022 explained.

BBTF is an annual event with the intention to establish a benchmark for travel and tourism events and destinations in Indonesia. Supported by the Ministry of Tourism Indonesia, BBTF held a B2B event and aims to advance the tourism industry through business sessions and direct promotion of best practices in MICE and Leisure management. Together with exhibitors and buyers from numerous countries around the world, BBTF facilitates Pre-Scheduled Appointments (PSA) and business sessions for buyers and sellers to negotiate on their long-term leisure and corporate travel needs. Corporations, travel agents, hotel & resort chains, cruise operators, convention planners, venue operators and travel buyers can leverage within the two full working days of business to business sessions to enhance their respective brands in the Indonesia and Asia Pacific markets.

Our million thanks and appreciation goes to the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia, the Government of Bali Province and the Bali Tourism Board, as well as our other partners across all the sectors and the stakeholders of tourism industry who have supported us tirelessly from the beginning. We will come back stronger and optimistic to bring the best of Indonesia to the 9th BBTF 2023. We look forward to welcoming our international BBTF participants next year at Indonesia’s Leading Travel and Tourism Fair, in the month of June 2023.

Register now at www.bbtf.co.id and be a part of Indonesia’s Leading International Travel and Tourism Fair.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

World Leaders Call for Urgent Action to Protect the Oceans

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World Leaders Call for Urgent Action to Protect the Oceans - TRAVELINDEXBrest, France, February 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism’s central role in advancing the Blue Economy was highlighted as UNWTO chaired a special session and joined a Heads of State panel at the One Ocean Summit, hosted by the French Presidency this week.

In a session on “Tourism in the Blue Economy” co-hosted with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and France, high level representatives stressed how implementing a blue economy can combat the threats of climate change, plastic pollution and over exploitation of resources. At the same time, the panel, representing Colombia, Kenya, Seychelles and Palau, made clear how a stronger focus on sustainability can help deliver more competitive and inclusive tourism activities.

Addressing the Summit, UNWTO Executive Director Zoritsa Urosevic, said: “Tourism is one of the pillars of the Blue Economy and plays a key role in the preservation of oceans by providing financial incentives and mechanisms to protect ecosystems. But we can, and must, do more. As part of the recovery, tourism shall play a key role in the regeneration of coastal and marine ecosystems for resilience, putting people at the center of our efforts.”

As part of the recovery, tourism shall play a key role in the regeneration of coastal and marine ecosystems for resilience, putting people at the center of our efforts

Opportunity out of crisis

At present, tourism represents 40% of the blue economy – as the largest share in export value according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Global tourism’s restart and recovery from the impacts of the pandemic represents an opportunity for the sector to support the transformation of coastal and marine destinations towards more sustainable and resilient models that are anchored on ocean protection and responsible use.

Sylvestre Ragedonde, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism of the Seychelles said: “The destinies of tourism and the blue economy must be intertwined to make responsible use of the limited resources. Our mother ocean should take a commanding role in tourism strategies. For the Seychelles, the blue economy represents a holistic approach for the tourism sector and local economy.”

Private sector transition

Corporate leaders from Accor, ClubMed, Costa Cruises, Iberostar Group, PONANT, TUI Group and the Blue Climate Initiative joined policy makers in the call to prioritize ocean protection and made bold commitments to address plastic pollution through practical solutions in line with the framework proposed by the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative which supports transitioning to a circular economy of plastics.

Hervé Gastinel, CEO PONANT said: “We are happy to announce our commitment to the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative with the goal of eliminating single use plastics in our operations by 2022. Following the example of the polar exploration ship Le Commandant Charcot, PONANT is rolling out its “Single use Plastic” objective on all its ships.”

The workshop was moderated by Jorge Laguna-Celis, Head of the One Planet Network and closed with a call to action from Brune Poirson, Director of Sustainable Development of Accor, for tourism stakeholders to join the collective movement around the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative and the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism. Mr Laguna-Celis said: “The One Planet Network is pleased to partner with the One Ocean Summit to raise ambitious commitments from tourism businesses and governments. The Tourism sector can be a vector of education and prevention of plastics pollution and a source of sustainable recovery from the pandemic and generation of decent revenues for millions of people”.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Enjoy Accelerated Earnings with Best Western Reward Rush

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Enjoy Accelerated Earnings with Best Western Reward Rush - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, February 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Best Western Hotels and Resorts has unveiled “Reward Rush”, an exclusive new offer that lets every guest maximize the benefits of their vacation! Available now, for all qualifying stays until May 8, 2022, this enticing offer promises double Best Western Rewards points all across Asia and in many other destinations around the world!

The beauty of Reward Rush is that it guarantees double points, no matter what the destination, brand, length-of-stay or room category! So, whether the guest books a stylish break in a Best Western branded property, an immersive two-week vacation in a participating SureStay® Hotel, or a truly unique escape in a luxurious WorldHotels Collection property, the double points are still offered.

Based on the standard 10 points for every dollar spent, every member will now earn 20 points per dollar spent on their hotel room, minus any taxes and fees. This comes on top of the recent extension of each member’s elite status and benefits, ensuring that guests can enjoy exclusive benefits all around the world. The only limitation is a maximum of five stays.

All BWR members, whether long-standing or newly-enrolled, can take advantage of the Reward Rush promotion for their next stay in Asia – and many other regions around the world. This offer is also valid for qualifying stays at all SureStay Hotel Group properties and participating hotels and resorts under the WorldHotels Collection, so every guest can find the ideal hotel or resort to suit their unique travel needs.

BWR continues to elevate the travel experience for its guests by enabling all members to retain their elite status for another year. Every member worldwide is eligible for this latest tier extension, which is valid through March 31st, 2023. No action is required; you can just sit back, relax and rest assured that Best Western is taking care of you! BWR is also the only loyalty program in the industry where points never expire, so members are not impacted by unpredictable circumstances that could prevent them from using their hard-earned points.

Best Western Hotels & Resorts offers a global network of hotels in nearly 100† countries and territories worldwide. From our traditional hotel brands to our extended stay or unique boutique and upscale options, you’re sure to find the perfect property to satisfy your travel needs, all around the world.

SureStay Hotel Group delivers exceptional value-driven experiences for travelers who desire international accommodation at affordable prices. Comprised of four distinctive brands, SureStay Hotel Group ensures that all travelers can stay in comfort while away from home.

WorldHotels Collection is a curated portfolio of the finest independent hotels and resorts around the world. All WorldHotels properties are as exquisite as the destinations in which they are found, creating unforgettable experiences from the moment you walk through the door.

About Best Western Hotels and Resorts:
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand within the BWH Hotel Group® global network. With 18 brands and approximately 4,700 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. Brands include Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Vīb®, GLō®, Aiden®, Sadie®, BW Premier Collection® and BW Signature Collection®. Through acquisition, WorldHotelsTM Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Distinctive and WorldHotels Crafted collections are also offered. Completing the portfolio is SureStay®, SureStay Plus®, SureStay Collection® and SureStay Studio® franchises**.

* Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.
**All Best Western, WorldHotels and SureStay branded hotels are independently owned and operated.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hilton Announces New Leadership in Australasia & South-East Asia

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Hilton Announces New Leadership in Australasia & South-East Asia - TRAVELINDEX

Sydney, Australia, February 11, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Hilton Worldwide have announced a change in leadership as Paul Hutton has today been named new vice president for operations in Australasia effective 16 February 2015. Currently Mr Hutton is working as the regional general manager for China South at Hilton Worldwide, however in his new role he will be responsible for the performance of the growing portfolio of Hilton Worldwide hotels in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Paul Hutton takes over from Ashley Spencer who is retiring from his highly successful 27-year career with Hilton Worldwide, having held senior leadership positions in the UK, Europe, Africa, Middle East, Asia and Australia. Hilton Worldwide president Asia Pacific Martin Rinck, said that Paul brings a great deal of knowledge and expertise to his new role.

Paul began his career with Hilton Worldwide in 1984 at the Noga Hilton in Switzerland and then took on various roles at Hiltons in Australia, the UAE, and Egypt before being promoted to the role of general manager at Athénée Palace Hilton Bucharest in 2000.

Paul Hutton will succeed Heidi Kunkel, who has led the Australasia region over the past three and a half years. The move represents a return to the Australasia leadership role for Mr. Hutton, who spent the past four years as Hilton’s Regional Head of Southeast Asia, where he built a robust leadership team and oversaw significant portfolio growth.

“As one of our most seasoned hospitality industry veterans, Paul brings broad regional, brand, and hotel operations experience to this role. He has been instrumental in overseeing the introduction of incredible properties such as Waldorf Astoria Bangkok and Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi,” said Alan Watts, Regional President Asia Pacific for Hilton. “Paul’s significant cross brand and country knowledge will be hugely valuable as he returns to his native Australia.”

As the leader of Hilton’s Australasia portfolio, Paul will be based in Sydney where he will continue to drive Hilton’s successful recovery efforts, working closely with the company’s network of owners. In this role, he will oversee 27 operating hotels and a healthy development pipeline of 12 hotels and resorts, with further growth plans to double Hilton’s footprint in Australasia in the next five years – through an organic growth strategy with the right brands in the right locations.

Taking up the Southeast Asia leadership role is Alexandra (Alex) Murray, who will transfer from Hilton’s operations in Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA). In that role, Alex oversaw an impressive portfolio of 57 hotels with a pipeline of 47 properties.

“Transitioning great talent and sharing best practices around the globe is at the heart of our leadership strategy at Hilton,” said Alan. “Having previously worked in Asia, and more recently in EMEA, Alex brings a strong track record of excellent commercial and team performance, with over 30 years of experience across various full-service operational and regional commercial leadership roles.”

Based in Singapore, Alex will oversee 46 open and trading hotels in the region, with a further 51 in the pipeline – including the largest Hilton hotel in the APAC region.

Both Paul and Alex will be part of the Hilton APAC Senior Leadership Team. “I am confident that both Paul and Alex will ensure that Hilton continues to deliver both exceptional hospitality for our customers and exceptional returns for our owners,” commented Alan on the appointments.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Serbia Joins Centre for Fourth Industrial Revolution Network

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Serbia Joins Centre for Fourth Industrial Revolution Network - TRAVELINDEX

Belgrade, Serbia, February 11, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Republic of Serbia and the World Economic Forum have established a Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Network in Serbia (C4IR Serbia). The Centre will be an autonomous non-for-profit organisation, leading on policy and governance for emerging technologies.

The document was signed by Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director, World Economic Forum, and Mihailo Jovanović, Director, Office for Information Technologies and eGovernment, Government of the Republic of Serbia.

“The strong partnership between the Republic of Serbia and the World Economic Forum has reached a new level and I am very proud that today we are launching a Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Serbia (C4IR Serbia). This Centre is another step towards digitalization as Serbia’s top priority. It will help us adopt the most cutting edge policies and solutions developed with partners from all over the world. Key areas of Serbia’s C4IR will be AI and Bioengineering – two areas already recognized in Serbia as critical for future economic growth. Our close cooperation with the World Economic Forum also contributes to Serbia’s international recognition as a global hub for research and development in new technologies,” said Ana Brnabić, Prime Minister of Serbia.

“I am delighted to see that Serbia has joined the Forum’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Network,” said Børge Brende, President of the World Economic Forum. “Innovation is the key to fulfilling our shared priorities of sustainability, equity, and resilience. The new Centre in Serbia will join a growing platform as a focal point for advancing innovation and industrial transformation. ”

C4IR Serbia will be formed inside the Government Office for IT and eGovernment, a top-level Government institution directly reporting to the Prime Minister.

The ecosystem developed around the Center will leverage existing infrastructure such as the national platforms for AI development, the Center for Genome Sequencing, and a planned bioeconomy hub – BIO4 Campus – to create solutions that benefit Serbian citizens.

The Center will also engage with critical national stakeholders, like the National AI Institute and Institute for Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, other Government institutions, and the private sector.

An arena for public-private cooperation on Fourth Industrial Revolution

The Fourth Industrial Revolution has led to technological breakthroughs in many fields, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, IoT and robotics, 3D printing, nanotechnology, and biotechnology, among others.

The Forum’s global network is a platform for multi-stakeholder collaboration bringing together public and private sectors to maximize technological benefits to society while minimizing the risks associated with 4IR technologies.

C4IR Serbia is the 16th centre to join a network that spans 4 continents.

First Fourth Industrial Revolution Centre in the region

C4IR Serbia will be a platform through which the country will shape the development of local and national 4IR strategies and contributes to the global trajectory of these technologies. It is the first 4IR Centre in the Balkan region. It will become a hub of expertise to co-design and pilot future-focused policy frameworks that enable the development and deployment of ethical technology in the region and the world.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Avani Hotels Launches First Hotel in the Sultanate of Oman

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Avani Hotels Launches First Hotel in the Sultanate of Oman - HOTELWORLDS - TRAVELINDEX

Muscat, Oman, February 11, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Minor Hotels has announced the launch of Avani Muscat Hotel, its newest property in the Middle East and the upbeat, contemporary brand’s first property in the Sultanate of Oman. Located in Seeb, a prime residential area at the heart of Muscat’s westward growth, the new property benefits from superb airport and city access making it a convenient base for business travellers, digital nomads and leisure travellers alike.

Blending heritage-inspired touches and sleek contemporary style, the property’s 161 guest rooms are a masterclass in subtle design. Soothing yet stimulating environments, empathetic to the needs of today’s hyper connected traveller, have been created with natural materials, bespoke décor and Omani tones. In response to global travellers’ evolving working behaviours, in-room workspaces feature flexible configuration options and easy access to the smart power panel outfitted with multiple plugs and USB ports.

On the residential side, 45 studios and one, two- and three-bedroom serviced apartments bring Avani’s fresh, forward-looking aesthetic to one of Muscat’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. At 128-square metres, the three-bedroom apartments are the largest in the inventory and are perfectly suited for long-stay guests and families with children who can take full advantage of AvaniKids, the hotel’s kids’ club and pool.

Flavourful dining options include Trisis, a nature-inspired all-day dining restaurant with indoor tree features and specialising in Omani, Arabic and international cuisines, and Avani’s easy gourmet grab-and-go concept Pantry, known for its honest, nutritious meals and specialty coffee. The alfresco Patio Bar offers refreshments and the perfect spot to kick back overlooking the turquoise swimming pool whilst taking in the heartbeat of the city. Dedicated exercise and health club amenities are available at AvaniFit providing space to get in shape or unwind at the sauna or steam room.

Avani Muscat is adjacent to the Al Araimi Boulevard Mall and is just a five-minute drive from the Mall of Muscat, home to a spectacular 8,000 square metre aquarium and countless shopping, dining and entertainment options. Guests can also explore Seeb’s famous traditional souq, a sprawling blend of markets offering everything from spices to gold to Omani embroidery.

Thanks to the brand’s Travel Blog for culturally-curious travellers, Avani Muscat residents and guests have access to wanderlust-inducing destinations, Instagrammable spots and insightful guides curated by local culture experts. Outdoor-minded visitors to the city can embark on marine tours and dive charters from the nearby Al Mouj Marina or work on their putting or swing at Al Mouj Golf, Oman’s first PGA links golf course designed by Greg Norman.

The Royal Opera House, an architectural marvel offering a strong calendar of world-class music events, and the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque are both a short drive away. Farther afield but still well within a day-trip distance from the hotel are Al Alam Palace, one of the active royal residences that dates back 200 years, and The National Museum of Oman showcasing the rich and diverse culture of the Sultanate.

Avani Muscat is well positioned to become one of the city’s leading conference and event venues, with a spacious and stylish ballroom able to accommodate large-scale social celebrations such as weddings and banquets, and boasts high ceilings, an outdoor pre-function area, a private Majilis and plenty of parking.

As well as being one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing hotel brands, Avani Hotels and Resorts (www.avanihotels.com) is well-established in the Middle East, with three properties in Dubai in key tourist and business areas: upmarket Palm Jumeirah, historic Deira and Ibn Battuta on the city’s main Sheikh Zayed Road. The brand recently announced the further expansion of its footprint in the region into Bahrain with Avani Bilaj Al Jazayer Bahrain Resort scheduled for a 2024 opening.

About Avani Hotels & Resorts
Launched in 2011, Avani Hotels is part of the global hospitality group Minor Hotels (BKK: MINT) and was designed for the millennial-minded traveller whose priorities are style, value and comfort. Avani is an upbeat and contemporary hotel concept that delivers the perfect balance, with a focus on good sleep, designed social spaces, locally inspired sustenance and friendly service.

Avani welcomes guests to over 30 properties in Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Australia, New Zealand, Seychelles, Mozambique, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Zambia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Portugal, with a growing pipeline across Asia, the Indian Ocean and the Middle East.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News