Global Travel News

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE: News and views from Travel South

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From a new music trail in Louisiana to the 150TH anniversary of the famed Kentucky Derby, there’s plenty going on in the southern US that is sure to attract and appeal to Canadian travellers spreading their wings after the pandemic. And to help get the word out on what’s new, dozens of suppliers convened at the recent Travel South International Showcase in Louisville, Kentucky.

Buyers and media from 16 countries attended the 10th annual event, and amidst the avalanche of information at hand – enough to fill a ballroom at the Omni Louisville, not to mention a myriad of off-site venues and events – Travel Industry Today asked a representative of each of the 12 Travel South member states to simply list a single piece of news or view from their destination that stands out above the rest. Here’s what they had to say:

ALABAMA

A new ‘All in One Ticket’ program being introduced offers 60 different attractions curated into 14 separate cities/regions in a state known for its civil rights history, outdoors (including under-the-radar beaches), golf, and growing culinary scene. In Birmingham, the pass features 11 attractions, including the 16th St. Baptist Church, Civil Rights Institute, zoo, Oak Mountain State Park, and several museums. Tickets are available through Expedia or at alabama.travel.

ARKANSAS

Using Little Rock as a base, it’s less than three hours to anywhere in Arkansas – a state that rep Kim Williams maintains is “different from its neighbours.” Highlights include endless outdoor activities thanks to 60 state or national parks, along with numerous hot springs; the Bill Clinton – a good ‘ol boy from Arkansas – presidential library in the capital; and a mine where visitors can dig for diamonds and, “if you find it you keep it.”

GEORGIA

“The No. 1 thing I’d like to tell Canadians is about our coast,” says Meggan Hood of Explore Georgia. “I think they know Atlanta and Savannah, but our coast is extraordinarily different than other coasts.” With hundreds of kilometres of Atlantic shoreline, she cites the sparsely populated Golden Isles (including St. Simon, Little St. Simon, Jekyll Island, Cumberland) in particular. Located about 90 minutes south of Savannah and stretching to the Florida state line, the area boasts wild expanses of beach, dunes and marsh lands, lighthouses, small villages, and plenty to do. “It’s a choose your own adventure kind of thing,” she enthuses.

Kentucky Derby

KENTUCKY

Kentucky bills itself as the home of bourbon, bluegrass and barbecue, but the state is equally synonymous with horses, and nowhere is more central to equine culture than Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby – the iconic race that is as much social spectacle as sporting event. Always held on the first Saturday in May, the race is celebrated for weeks in advance, festivities will take on greater significance, and flair, in 2024 as the race celebrates its 150th anniversary. Music, food (incl. barbecue), fireworks, hot air balloon races, and much more will colour the April weeks leading up to the race, which features the world’s best three-year-old thoroughbreds, and is dubbed “the most exciting two minutes in sport.”

LOUISIANA

From Dixieland jazz to blues and zydeco to Cajun, Louisiana has always exuded music. However, for the first time, the state will have its own music trail, starting in 2023. The trail will feature a website and on-the-ground markers linking historic and current venues and attractions, from New Orleans’ iconic Preservation Hall to the Jolly Inn in Houma, and the Blue Moon Saloon in Lafayette. The program will also provide education and interactive activities. “It’s designed to not just let you enjoy the music, but learn about music too,” says Jennifer Berthelot of the Louisiana Office of Tourism. “It would be great for the novice. If you want to explore and don’t know how, this will make it easy.”

MISSISSIPPI

This southern state stakes a claim as “the birthplace of American Music.” From its comprehensive Blues Trail (check out the app) to the legacy of favourite son Elvis Presley (born in Tupelo and having resided in iconic Graceland across the Tennessee border in Memphis), Rachel Obermeier of Mississippi Tourism says matter-of-factly, “Music is our calling card.” But she quickly adds that there are also considerably more things to fill the spaces between the notes: Antebellum, civil war, and civil rights history, as well as active outdoor opportunities including Gulf Coast beaches, golf, casinos in Biloxi and Gulfport, great cuisine, and temperatures that are “very inviting” year-round.

(Ed. Note: Stay tuned for Part II of our state-by-state recap from the Travel South symposium: Missouri, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia).

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: Dec. 6-10, 2022

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Airfares are forecast to rise 2023 according to Amex – find out how much. Also last week, Japan is WestJet’s star destination for summer 2023, Air Canada touted JFK flights as part of its 2023 sked, Porter unveiled new perks in economy, and Boeing marked the end of an era.….

NEWS

Domestic airfares in North America are forecast to rise in 2023, though not as much as in other regions of the globe, according to American Express Global Business Travel’s annual Air Monitor 2023. Domestic fares are expected to see moderate rises (3.4% business, 2.9% economy) as more capacity comes online in 2023. Meanwhile, Europe-North America routes are expected to see modest rises of 3.7%, and Asia-North America flights slated to see significant rises (5.6% business, 9.8% economy).

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has officially reopened two NEXUS and FAST enrollment centres in Canada enabling applicants to now schedule interviews at the Lansdowne, Ont. (Thousand Islands Bridge) and Fort Erie, Ont. (Peace Bridge) enrolment centres. The agency says more Canadian enrolment centres will open at additional select land border crossings in the future. Notably, however, applicants will still have to cross the border for an interview with US agents.

After more than half a century, Boeing rolled out its last 747 out of a Washington state factory on Tuesday. The jumbo jet, which debuted in 1969, was the largest commercial aircraft in the world and the first with two aisles, and it still towers over most other planes.

BORDERS

The Advance CBSA Declaration feature in ArriveCAN is now available to all travellers arriving on international flights at the Québec City Jean-Lesage International Airport. The Advance CBSA Declaration feature provides travellers with the option to submit their customs and immigration declaration to the CBSA up to 72 hours in advance of their arrival in Canada.

AIR

Canada Jetlines commenced direct roundtrip Airbus A320 service between Toronto and Vancouver on Friday (Dec. 9).

New service between Montreal and Fort McMurray, Alta., next June, plus increased frequencies between Toronto-Kelowna, Winnipeg-Toronto, and Montreal-Vancouver highlight Air Canada’s summer domestic schedule, which will see also see the carrier restore suspended services and increase frequencies as well. Meanwhile three new transborder routes, including service from Toronto and Montreal to JFK, and Toronto-Sacramento will start in 2023, along with the restoration of 11 suspended services and increased frequencies on 12 other routes.

Free WiFi, fresh meals, and enhanced legroom are all part of the new economy class being rolled out by Porter Airlines. The carrier is also introducing a new, all-inclusive economy experience called PorterReserve, which includes dedicated airport check-in, early boarding, enhanced legroom, fresh meals on longer flights, Porter’s signature beer, wine and premium snacks, cocktails, two checked bags, and the ability to change flights without a fee.

WestJet will offer flights three times weekly flights to Tokyo Narita starting April 30, marking the airline’s first non-stop flights to Asia from Calgary. The airline also announced new routes from Calgary to Barcelona and Edinburgh and increased frequency to Dublin, London, Paris, and Rome, also starting in the spring. The new flights are part of the airline’s plan to expand capacity from Calgary by more than 25% by next year, beginning with intercontinental routes.

Sun service from Windsor, Ont. kicked off last week for Sunwing, with first flights of the season to Cancun and Cayo Coco, with Varadero starting Dec. 17 and Santa Clara, Cuba on the 21st. Similarly, London, Ont. flights go this week: Punta Cana (Dec. 14), Cancun (Dec. 15), and Varadero (Dec. 16).

TOURS

Early 2023 sales for Italy, Scotland and Ireland are at 93% of total 2022 numbers, says Globus family of brands in Canada, “indicating that our Canadian office is on target to break some travel records next year.” Other hot destinations include Portugal, and France. Popular tour styles include off-season Escapes by Globus and Active & Discovery itineraries on Avalon Waterways.

Tauck has again eliminated the single supplement on its Category 1 European riverboat cabins, waiving the supplement entirely for those cabins on each departure of every 2023 Tauck river cruise itinerary. Tauck has also reduced the single supplement by CDN$1,300 on other selected cabin categories on 63 departures of 20 different river itineraries. On its land journeys, single supplements have also been reduced by up to $1,300 on 113 departures of 43 tours visiting five continents.

 RESORTS

Saint Lucia’s all-inclusive Coconut Bay Beach Resort – a long-time favourite amongst Canadian sun-seekers – has a new look and feel after completing a US$6-million property-wide refreshment during its annual September closing. Enhancements touched on guest rooms, the CocoLand Kidz Klub, the Wedding Centre, tennis and basketball courts, the main bar area, resort lobby, hallways, and more.

Now open, Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya is the latest addition to Hyatt’s all-inclusive adult experience nestled in the secluded region of Riviera Maya with easy access to the Cancún International Airport and only 10 km. from Playa del Carmen. The sophisticated resort offers 291-suites with modern hacienda charm, sitting alongside a long stretch of pure white sand beach.

HOTELS

BC-based Accent Inns Inc. reports that all nine of its affiliated properties are now officially Rainbow Registered with Canada’s LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce. First launched in June 2021, the Rainbow Registered Accreditation Program was created to better identify 2SLGBTQI+ friendly businesses across Canada and help move the needle on social rights. The nationally recognized Canadian accreditation symbol indicates to consumers that the business meets a stringent set of standards to ensure 2SLGBTQI+ visitors feel safe, welcomed, and accepted.

IHG Hotels & Resorts has opened its first avid hotel in Canada in Vaughan, Ont. The avid hotel Toronto – Vaughan Southwest is the first of four planned properties across Canada for IHG’s newest Essentials brand. With 119 rooms, it is located 15 minutes (traffic notwithstanding) from Toronto Pearson International Airport and adheres to the brand’s “basics done exceptionally well – at a fair price” promise to regional business and leisure travellers.

CRUISE

Silversea’s newest expedition ship, Silver Endeavour, is set to broaden ultra-luxury travel’s most diverse polar offering by accessing more than 125 of the world’s most remote, extreme destinations through summer 2024 and winter 2024/25 with 27 new voyages that incorporate additional calls to Antarctica and the Arctic, as well as the British Isles and Iceland.

Luxury cruise line Cunard has announced a new partnership with the Royal Canadian Geographical Society that will see experts from RCGS featured on select 2023 voyages as part of the cruise line’s Insights onboard enrichment program. The RCGS headliners will be on every Cunard voyage in the 2023 Alaska season on Queen Elizabeth, from June through August, and on the Canada/New England voyage in September, from New York to Quebec, on flagship liner Queen Mary 2.

BY THE NUMBERS

Black Friday was Royal Caribbean International’s single largest booking day in its 53-year history, which marked the third time the record was broken in 2022 and the peak of what is now the brand’s highest volume booking week. The strong demand and performance demonstrated by the two latest records come on the heels of the first look at the new Icon of the Seas, and the record-breaking day reported when the highly anticipated ship opened for bookings 15 months ahead of its January 2024 debut. Meanwhile, Carnival Cruise Line got a jumpstart on what it hopes will be a busy 2023 cruise season as it posted a record Cyber Monday booking day that was 50% above volume for Cyber Monday 2019.

DEALS

Holland America Line has expanded its “Canada Super Sale” with additional cruise dates in 2023. Featuring up to 20% off fares on select sailings, the offer runs through Dec. 31, and features a diverse selection of Alaska, Panama Canal, Caribbean, and European cruises.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

SeaWorld Orlando’s newest roller coaster will debut next spring, a first-of-a-kind attraction in which riders will experience “wave jumping” motions to make them feel like they are actually surfing. “Pipeline: The Surf Coaster” will feature a unique surfboard-shaped ride vehicle secured on the roller coaster in a surfing position, which is launched at speeds of up to 100 kph to give riders the feeling that they are catching a wave. Riders will then feel like they are hanging loose when their seats rise and fall to mimic the sensation of riding on a wave while sending them through several gnarly twists and turns.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

Sunwing’s ‘12 Days of Giveaways’ continues this week with every client booking made by Dec. 16 automatically giving agents a chance to win one of 10 $250 Sunwing gift cards to put towards their future Sunwing travel and one of two free vacations, including flights and accommodation, to Royalton Cayo Santa Maria or the brand-new Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun. Bookings on applicable packages must apply to travel by April 30. Clients can save 40% off their bookings.

EVENTS

Over 150 agents attended a Visit Orlando event last week (photo) in Toronto with partners including Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and other hotels and attractions. Agents took part in interactive in-person training events highlighting selling tips and the latest offerings in the Florida city, as well have a chance to win prizes. Agents who could not attend are recommended to sign up for the Orlando Travel Academy to become a certified “Orlando Travel Expert.”

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

TL Network Canada has appointed travel industry veteran Cheryl Babulal as Sales Manager, effective Dec. 12. In this position, Babulal will help identify and develop new business opportunities for TL Network Canada, with the goal of increasing volume and market share through recruiting new travel agencies into the company. Babulal will report to Lindsay Pearlman, Sr VP, Travel Leaders Network.

 David Green, managing director of G Adventures in Canada, has been named vice chair of the Canadian Association of Tour Operators (CATO), succeeding Stéphanie Bishop (Globus). As an MBA graduate he has almost 30 years experience in business strategy across travel retail and travel wholesale backgrounds. An industry advocate who has built a career focused on growth through a customer centric approach working in the UK, Australia, and Canada, Green is a passionate supporter of driving positive change within the industry, including helping businesses, agents and customers to do more to support community tourism and sustainability.

DESTINATIONS

After a two-year hiatus, Junkanoo, the national cultural festival of the Bahamas, returns for its largest celebration in downtown Nassau on Boxing Day (Dec. 26, 2022) and Jan. 2, 2023. The cultural festival represents the rich heritage of the African diaspora and is a colourful tradition that speaks to the strength and resilience of the Bahamian people. Festivities will take place in Grand Bahama Island, Bimini, Eleuthera, Abaco, Long Island, Cat Island, Inagua and Andros.

Arkansas has joined the US Bicycle Route System with the designation of its first US Bicycle Route, while Tennessee has designated a second route. The new routes, along with the realignment of routes in Minnesota, New York, and Ohio, add more than 685 km. to the US Bicycle Route System, bringing total mileage to nearly 31,000 km, and improving connectivity and the cycling experience.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1840, Scottish missionary explorer David Livingstone set sail on his first journey to Africa. He had been accepted to serve under the London Missionary Society two years earlier.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Destination Mekong Summit Promotes Partnerships for Sustainable Tourism Recovery

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Destination Mekong Summit Promotes Partnerships for Sustainable Tourism Recovery - TOURISMMEKONG.org - TRAVELINDEXPhnom Penh, Cambodia, December 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As part of its action plan to boost tourism recovery in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), Destination Mekong, the private regional tourism board of the GMS, based in Cambodia and Singapore, will have the third edition of its Destination Mekong Summit on 14-15 December 2022.

As international travel has resumed in the GMS and globally, the 2022 Destination Mekong Summit will take place in Trellion and Aquation Parks on Koh Pich in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and online, under the theme ‘Together – Smarter – Stronger’.

Designed as a two-day journey celebrating creativity, diversity and inclusivity, the 2022 DMS will gather 40 speakers, and prominent representatives of the public and private sectors involved in the travel, tourism and hospitality in the Mekong region: operators and owners of tourism SMEs, social entrepreneurs, policy-makers, practitioners, influencers, change-makers, educators and learners, high-level officials, etc.

The program of the Summit features eight thematic panel sessions, three of them being led by supporting partners including:

· World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) session on ‘Championing the GMS as a sustainable tourism destination’, a key partner of the 2022 DMS;

· Child Protection in Travel and Tourism (ECPAT) International: session on ‘Practicing social responsibility and inclusiveness in tourism’;

· Beyond Retail Business (BRB) session on ‘Catching the value of local culture, know-how and creativity’.

Other panel sessions will address a variety of subjects such as innovative capacity-building, sustainable food and beverage businesses and experiences, marketing and branding for SMEs, social enterprises and start-ups in tourism, and opportunities and threats for tourism recovery in the GMS.

On the morning of the second day, 15 December, the Destination Mekong Summit will offer its participants the opportunity to attend the following training sessions and workshops:

– Training of Tour Guides as Wildlife Champions and Agents for Positive Changes by WWF,

– Sustainable tourism recovery with child protection in focus by ECPAT International,

– Storytelling techniques by the Centre for Communication and Information Literacy,

– Developing a Tourism & Travel Brand in 2023 by Trove Tourism Development Advisors, and

– Digital Marketing for Tourism Businesses by Destination Mekong

– Presentation of the report on ‘Innovate to Compete – Cambodia’s Tourism Insights 2022’ by GIZ.

Three major networking events, including a cocktail reception on the first day and a business matchmaking breakfast and a garden party on the second day, will offer the audience another occasion to enjoy the ‘power of together’ while building promising bridges and exciting connections. The latest line-up of speakers and programs can be found here.

Hosted for the first time in a hybrid format, the Destination Mekong Summit intends to:

· build a smart platform and network to stimulate sustainable tourism recovery across GMS;

· foster synergies and partnerships to position and market the GMS as an attractive, sustainable and inclusive tourism destination;

· To facilitate an innovative framework to share experiences, grassroots solutions, and inspiring stories to help the recovery and resilience of tourism recovery in the GMS;

· To showcase value-added, revenue-generating solutions, projects and programs designed by Destination Mekong and its members and partners.

Catherine Germier-Hamel, CEO of Destination Mekong, highlighted that ‘This 2022 DMS comes at a perfect time when we still have the chance to take stock of the lessons learnt in the past few years, and restart, rethink, and rebalance tourism so that it can truly contribute to inclusive local development and empowerment in the region’.

‘The travel and tourism industry has come in for much criticism in recent years, particularly in terms of its environmental impact, this summit allows us to convey the positive role the industry can play as well as the necessity to promote social and economic sustainability if we are to achieve our environmental sustainability goals’ stressed Mark Jackson, Chair of the Executive Board of Destination Mekong.

‘Responsible tourists are a key player in wildlife conservation and sustainable local livelihood development. Wildlife and local cultures are priceless assets for tourism activities which need to be protected and restored’ said Teak Seng, Country Director of WWF-Cambodia. ‘Cambodia is blessed with rich biodiversity on earth but the nature-based tourism in Cambodia hasn’t reached its full potential at this point due to the limited infrastructure, quality products and services,’ Mr Seng added.

‘Global travel and tourism are making a comeback, but it is important that we don’t revert to old behaviours,” said Jedsada Taweekan, head of WWF-Greater Mekong’s Illegal Wildlife Trade program. ‘The way forward must be green and sustainable, and consider the needs of wildlife and the environment in addition to the needs of travellers. Therefore, working with the travel and tourism sector to encourage tourists to have responsible tourism experiences – at the minimum by refraining from consuming wild animal meat or buying wildlife products as souvenirs – is a small but effective way to promote positive change in tourist behaviour.’

For Gabriela Kühn, Head of the Programme of Child Protection in Travel and Tourism – ECPAT International, ‘Practicing social responsibility and inclusiveness for tourism development can only happen through human rights approach. Actions to address adverse impacts on children’s rights need to be scaled up by governments and companies in cooperation with civil society organizations. The Destination Mekong Summit allows stimulating action of building together sustainable tourism destinations that protect children.’

Registration and details: www.destinationmekong.com/dms22

About Destination Mekong
Launched in 2017, Destination Mekong (DM) is a private tourism board aimed at championing the Geater Mekong Subregion (GMS)* as a united, attractive and sustainable tourism destination creating value, positive impact and opportunities for all. Over the past years, it has spearheaded innovative and inclusive collaboration within the public and private sectors across the six Mekong countries to inspire and engage travellers and stakeholders through authentic experiences and stories.

The core mission of Destination Mekong is to create engaging programs and solutions that build capacity, are inclusive, and promote sustainable economic development and understanding of the diversity and uniqueness of the region, contributing to social equality and poverty reduction.

Endorsed by the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office in Thailand and aligned with the mandate of the regional collaborative tourism framework of the six-member governments of the GMS, Destination Mekong has executed targeted projects and initiatives, including Mekong Moments, Mekong Memories, Mekong Deals, Mekong Mini Movie Festival, Mekong Innovative Start-ups in Tourism (MIST), Experience Mekong Collection, Mekong Heroes, and Mekong Trends, with feedback from the Mekong Tourism Advisory Group (MeTAG) and via a public-private partnership investment structure, led by UNWTO Affiliate Member Chameleon Strategies.

In 2022, Destination Mekong was registered as a full-fledged company in Singapore and Cambodia, operating as a social enterprise.

(*) The Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) comprises Cambodia, PR China (Provinces of Guangxi and Yunnan), Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO and European Commission Share Joint Vision for Tourism’s Future

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UNWTO and European Commission Share Joint Vision for Tourism's Future - TRAVELINDEXBrussels, Belgium, December 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As the European Council presents the conclusions of the European Tourism Agenda, UNWTO has joined European Commissioner for Transport Adina Vălean in emphasizing the importance of jobs, education and investments for achieving the shared vision for a revitalized sector between now and 2050.

The conclusions presented by the European Council today are built on several years of work around “Tourism in Europe for the Next Decade.” They inform a new Transition Pathway for Tourism, developed by the European Commission in consultation with key stakeholders, including UNWTO. The Transition Pathway identifies specific intervention areas to boost the tourism eco-system in Europe. Several of the key intervention areas reflect the priorities of UNWTO, most notably a recognition of the importance of building and supporting a skilled and committed workforce.

In a joint statement, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and Commissioner Vălean welcomed the restart of international travel across the region. However, they stress that tourism and transport need to “work together” to address the gap in tourism employment by making both sectors more attractive for workers. Additionally, the joint statement notes the importance of investments in tourism as a means of accelerating the shift to greater resilience and sustainability.

UNWTO has made tourism education and training one of the priorities in recent years. Alongside this, UNWTO opened a first department focused on investments, emphasizing that to achieve its wider goals of becoming more resilient and sustainable, tourism first needs the financial and human capital in place.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Red Sea Global Partners with The Ocean Race to Promote Sailing

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Red Sea Global Partners with The Ocean Race to Promote Sailing - TOP25EVENTS.com - TRAVELINDEXRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, Devember 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Red Sea Global, the developer behind two of the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects, The Red Sea and AMAALA, has announced new partnerships with The Ocean Race (TOR) for the next two editions of the Race, and with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) who will amplify their stories around the world.

The Ocean Race has provided the ultimate test for sailing teams since 1973. Known as ‘sailing’s greatest round-the-world challenge’, it is widely recognized as the pinnacle of achievement for sailors across the world, and has created legends of the sport throughout the years.

– New partnership also agreed with Warner Bros. Discovery, the worldwide broadcaster partner of the event, to reach a truly global audience
– Flagship Saudi developer partners with sailing’s greatest round-the-world race to support awareness of global ocean conservation efforts, and create long-term sailing legacy in The Red Sea
– Red Sea Global builds on the Kingdom’s historic relationship with the sea – dating back over 4,000 years to ancient spice trade routes

Beyond the race itself, The Ocean Race acts as a global platform to raise awareness of the environmental challenges facing the world’s marine environment and drive positive change. Over the years, it has brought together like-minded partner organizations from across the globe with a shared vision of protecting and enhancing our oceans, seeking to mobilize policymakers and industries in host countries to take action on an international scale.

“We are proud to become the Regenerative Project Partner of The Ocean Race. Sustainability sits at the very heart of our work at Red Sea Global, so The Ocean Race – and its impressive ambitions when it comes to ocean health – makes them a natural fit as a partner,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.

“The sea has always been an important part of Saudi Arabia’s history and heritage – dating back to the ancient spice trade routes, and creating thriving communities along its coasts. Through this partnership, we hope to support the efforts of The Ocean Race to raise awareness of the challenges facing our oceans globally today, and protect the outstanding beauty of the marine ecosystems in areas such as the Red Sea. At the same time, we want to nurture the next generation of sailors and build a sailing legacy for years to come.”

As partners, Red Sea Global will help promote the race and drive awareness of the importance of ocean health to an international audience. The partnership will see Red Sea Global hold events and educational initiatives, supported by content developed in collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery.

Red Sea Global intends to use its partnership with The Ocean Race to help inspire the next generation of Saudi sailors, promoting a new sport to a Kingdom that has enjoyed a crucial and historic relationship with the sea for over 4,000 years.

The 14th edition of The Ocean Race will start from Alicante, Spain on 15 January 2023, and will finish in Genova, Italy early in the summer of 2023. The race will visit nine iconic cities around the globe over a six-month period (Alicante, Spain – Cabo Verde – Cape Town, South Africa – Itajaí, Brazil – Newport, RI, USA – Aarhus, Denmark – Kiel Fly-By, Germany – The Hague, The Netherlands – Genova, Italy) and will feature a leg with the longest racing distance in the 50-year history of the event; a 12,750 nautical mile, one-month marathon from Cape Town, South Africa to Itajaí, Brazil.

The two fleets of mixed crews on foiling IMOCA and one-design VO65 boats will pass all three great southern Capes – Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn – non-stop, for the first time.

“The Red Sea is a new type of development, and has a vision to prioritize both people and planet based around commitments in support of regenerative tourism. Similarly, this is an innovative new type of partnership for us, where our collaboration with Red Sea Global and Warner Bros. Discovery results in a stronger outcome in pursuit of this goal,” said Johan Salén, The Ocean Race.

“We hope this will become a new template for other partnerships going forward, focusing on collaborations with purpose while taking advantage of the production and distribution power of a worldwide broadcast partner such as Warner Bros. Discovery for the benefit of all involved,” Salén continued.

For its part of the collaboration, Warner Bros. Discovery will harness its content capabilities and global reach to produce a series of short features around the Ocean and travel in the region. The content will air around its live broadcast of The Ocean Race during 2023 and adds to Warner Bros. Discovery’s multi-year race coverage.

“We are proud to be the worldwide broadcaster for The Ocean Race and welcome the opportunity to build on the stories we will tell about sailing’s toughest round the world race with those around the Red Sea Global project, particularly this combined effort to promote ocean health and its wider conservation. Around our race coverage and through our platforms, we have a unique ability to share greater understanding of these stories with a scaled and broad international audience. We look forward to utilising Warner Bros. Discovery’s creative capabilities to further expand awareness of our partner’s goals and initiatives all-year round,” said Mike Rich, Head of Sports Marketing Solutions, Warner Bros. Discovery.

About Red Sea Global
Red Sea Global is a closed joint-stock company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia. RSG is a global multi-project developer, seeking to lead the world towards a more sustainable future, showing how responsible and regenerative development can uplift communities, drive economies, and enhance the environment. The protection of natural capital is central to all development decisions, as the organization seeks to create a better future for all.

A cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambition to diversify its economy, RSG is playing a key role in transforming the nation, by creating exciting opportunities for young Saudi talent and the private sector, as it develops built assets and destinations across multiple sectors that make a positive impact for people and planet.

RSG is the visionary company behind some of the world’s most ambitious development ventures, including luxury regenerative tourism destinations such as The Red Sea and AMAALA.

Across its portfolio, RSG leverages the most innovative concepts, strategies, and technologies to deliver projects that actively enhance the wellbeing of customers, communities, and environments.

About The Ocean Race
The Ocean Race (TOR) has, since 1973, provided the ultimate test of a team and a human adventure like no other. For nearly 50 years, it has kept an almost mythical hold over some of the greatest sailors and been the proving ground for the legends of our sport.

The 14th edition of The Ocean Race will start from Alicante, Spain on 15 January 2023, and will finish in Genova, Italy early in the summer of 2023. The race will visit nine iconic cities around the globe over a six-month period (Alicante, Spain – Cabo Verde – Cape Town, South Africa - Itajaí, Brazil – Newport, RI, USA – Aarhus, Denmark – Kiel Fly-By, Germany – The Hague, The Netherlands – Genova, Italy) and will feature a leg with the longest racing distance in the 50-year history of the event – a 12,750 nautical mile, one-month marathon from Cape Town, South Africa to Itajaí, Brazil. The two fleets of mixed crews on foiling IMOCA and one-design VO65 boats will pass all three great southern Capes – Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn – non-stop, for the first time.

The Ocean Race has a proven commitment to sustainability, and with the support and collaboration of 11th Hour Racing, Founding Partner of the Race Sustainability Programme and Premier Partner of The Ocean Race, is inspiring action and creating tangible outcomes.

Building upon an award-winning legacy in sustainability, the Race’s innovative Racing With Purpose programme is acting as a catalyst for positive change and accelerating the application of innovative solutions to help restore ocean health.

About Warner Bros. Discovery
Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ: WBD) is a leading global media and entertainment company that creates and distributes the world’s most differentiated and complete portfolio of content and brands across television, film and streaming. Available in more than 220 countries and territories and 50 languages, Warner Bros. Discovery inspires, informs and entertains audiences worldwide through its iconic brands and products including: Discovery Channel, discovery+, CNN, DC, Eurosport, HBO, HBO Max, HGTV, Food Network, OWN, Investigation Discovery, TLC, Magnolia Network, TNT, TBS, truTV, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, Warner Bros. Film Group, Warner Bros. Television Group, Warner Bros. Games, New Line Cinema, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies, Discovery en Español, Hogar de

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dusit Hotels in Dubai Awarded at Arabian Travel Awards

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Dusit Hotels in Dubai Awarded at Arabian Travel Awards - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXDubai, UAE, December 1, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / dusitD2 Kenz Hotel picks up ‘Best Business Hotel’ accolade while Dusit Princess Residences Dubai is named ‘Best Serviced Apartment. Dusit Hotels and Resorts under Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has continued its winning streak this awards season, with two of its Dubai-based properties picking up an accolade each at the prestigious Arabian Travel Awards 2022.

• Discover Dubai and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

Based on online votes from the public, dusitD2 Kenz Hotel Dubai came out top in the ‘Best Business Hotel’ category, while Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai was crowned ‘Best Serviced Apartment.’

A vibrant four-star hotel in the heart of the city’s thriving Barsha Heights business district, the contemporary dusitD2 Kenz Hotel Dubai is one of the city’s top-rated hotels – consistently maintaining high reviews and ratings across all major platforms. It also recently received three TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards for its impressive stay experience and two distinctive restaurants – Wise Kwai Thai Restaurant and Mediterranean-themed Ostro Restaurant and Café.

Comprising 237 guest rooms, dusitD2 Kenz Hotel Dubai also features a fully equipped fitness centre, a Thai-inspired spa, and a large rooftop pool. Ensuring guests can get things done between explorations, it also offers four different work and meeting spaces. Each is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, including interactive touch screens and sound systems, ideal for presentations and brainstorming sessions.

The four-star Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai, meanwhile, is located at the prestigious Dubai Marina within easy reach of the beach and major attractions and services. Offering all the conveniences of a residence and the advantages of a full-service hotel, the property features a range of spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom luxury apartments, holiday homes, and residential units, each with ample living space and well-equipped kitchenettes. A swimming pool, fitness centre, steam rooms, and a restaurant that specialises in nutritious and organic food options, are among the facilities. Housekeeping service is available 24/7.

Alongside Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, guests at both properties also benefit from a wide range of memorable and meaningful experiences created in line with the four new pillars of Dusit Graciousness – Service (personalised and gracious), Well-Being (delivering wellness experiences beyond the spa), Locality (uniquely linking guests with the local community), and Sustainability (social, economic, and environmental).

Winners of the Arabian Travel Awards 2022 were announced during a gala ceremony held at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. Key industry players from the Middle East gathered to mark the occasion, celebrate the resiliency of hotel and tourism operators, and look forward to a more sustainable future.

Following the gala dinner, Mr Bassam Zakaria, Cluster General Manager of dusitD2 Kenz Hotel and Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai, said, “We are honoured and grateful to receive these awards, which are a testament to our passionate pursuit of excellence at each of our properties. We are delighted to deliver Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality in Dubai, and we look forward to providing even more outstanding services and transformative experiences for our esteemed guests and customers in the exciting months and years ahead.”

• Discover Dubai and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

About dusitD2 Kenz Hotel
dusitD2 Kenz Hotel, a 4-star property located in Barsha Heights, offers 237 contemporary rooms and suites. The alcohol-free property features Mediterranean and Thai restaurants, a swimming pool, a health and fitness centre, a business centre, and meeting rooms. dusitD2 Kenz Hotel is a short walk from Dubai Internet City Metro Station and offers easy access to Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, and many other key attractions.

About Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai Marina
Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai Marina is a collection of spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments perfectly situated on the boardwalk of Dubai Marina with great views. Well connected to Dubai Marina Promenade, the property is close to Bluewaters Island, The Beach, and numerous shopping malls and restaurants. JBR walk is just minutes away.

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: hotels and resorts, hospitality education, food, property development, and hospitality-related services.

The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of six brands (Dusit Thani, Dusit Devarana, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 16 countries worldwide. The group also operates culinary schools and hospitality colleges in Thailand, plus catering companies for the education sector in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PUBS, PATIOS & BARS: Kentucky’s most cutting-edge bar

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To be clear, barflies at Brew Bridge in Owensboro, Kentucky, can’t fling axes while in the pub. But, patrons can pop on over to neighbouring Escape Today, a sister venue, to try their hand at the increasingly popular activity (like darts with hatchets).

Both establishments are owned by the same company and co-owner Max Garvin assures that it’s totally safe and that tipsy guests aren’t permitted to channel their inner Viking (all patrons must sign a waiver).

“It’s very safe. Honestly, we’ve had more minor injuries in our escape room,” he laughs. The venue also includes an arcade.

Garvin and partner David Haynes opened the activity centre three years ago in Owensboro, a small city in the northwestern part of the state that is known for its fine Fine Arts Museum, magical Moonlight Inn Bar-B-Q (named one of the world’s ’15 Happiest Places’ by CNN in 2017, no less), and as home to the most excellent Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

With a steady stream of visitors to the town for those attractions, Garvin and Haynes joined forces with master brewer Will Gomez soon after to open Owensboro’s first craft brewery (the name is a play on the city’s signature Blue Bridge, which spans the Ohio River to neighbouring Indiana), and first since 1903.The venue, located downtown at the end of the main drag, is an easy walk from the Bluegrass Museum and Convention Centre. Unremarkable outside, it features a large bar and comfortable warehouse chic interior, including local artwork displayed on the walls. In the back there’s a shaded patio, the biggest in town, that beckons during the summer heat.

But mainly, “We’re all about the craft,” says Garvin, citing a roster of about 30 of its own beers brewed onsite, 12 to 15 of which are available on tap at any one time, including seasonal varieties.

From 1947 a premium light lager to the Commander, a double chocolate oatmeal stout, there is something for all adult tastes (kids are welcome in the bar too), and ideal to wash down barbecue from the onsite smokehouse, which features brisket, pulled pork, turkey, and homemade sides.

The menu also includes custom burgers, wraps, pasta, and even poutine to help Canadians feel at home.

And to work it all off, there’s the axe-throwing next door. Just not if you’re tanked.

Bridge Brew is located at 800 Main West 2nd St. in Owensboro, which about two hours west of Louisville and a similar distance north of Nashville, Tenn. Info at owensborobrewbridge.com.

Axe throwing at Escape Today

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

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

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: Remembering a songbird, Christine McVie

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Christine McVie may not have been as immediately synonymous with Fleetwood Mac as bandmates Stevie Nicks and Lindsay Buckingham, but the vocalist, songwriter, and keyboard player was every bit as important to the group, having penned and sung many of it’s best tunes, not least her signature song, “Songbird.”

The British born McVie, who died Nov. 30 at age 79 after a short illness, also helped define such classics as “You Make Loving Fun,” “Everywhere” and “Don’t Stop” with her whose cool, soulful contralto.

McVie was a steady presence and personality in a band known for its frequent lineup changes and volatile personalities – notably fellow singer-songwriters Nicks and Buckingham.

Her death is the first among Fleetwood Mac’s most famous incarnation of McVie, Nicks, Buckingham, drummer Mick Fleetwood and bassist John McVie, Christine’s ex-husband.

Fleetwood Mac started out as a London blues band in the 1960s and evolved into one of the defining makers of 1970s California pop-rock, with the talents of McVie, Nicks and Buckingham anchored by the rhythm section of Fleetwood and John McVie. During its peak commercial years, from 1975-80, the band sold tens of millions of records and fascinated fans as it transformed personal battles into melodic, compelling songs. The McVies’ breakup – along with the split of Nicks and Buckingham – was famously documented on the 1977 release “Rumours,” among the bestselling albums of all time.

Everyone in the group played a distinctive role: Fleetwood and John McVie formed a deep and bluesy groove, Buckingham was the resident mad genius and perfectionist, Nicks the charismatic dramatist and idol to countless young women, and Christine McVie the grounded counterpoint, her economy as a singer and player well suited to her birth surname: Perfect.

“I was supposedly like the Mother Teresa who would hang out with everybody or just try and (keep) everything nice and cool and relaxed,” she told Rolling Stone earlier this year. “But they were great people; they were great friends.”

Fleetwood Mac was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, when at the ceremony they played McVie’s “Say You Love Me.”

One of McVie’s most beloved works, the thoughtful ballad “Songbird,” was a showcase for her in concert and covered by Willie Nelson, among others.

The midtempo rocker “Don’t Stop,” inspired by the end of her marriage, would gain unexpected political relevance when Bill Clinton adopted the song – and its “Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow” refrain – as a theme to his 1992 presidential run. The band, which had essentially stopped making albums at the time, reunited to perform at his inauguration gala.

The group’s overwhelming success also led to inevitable conflicts and the desire for solo work and McVie released solo albums, including “Christine McVie” and “Christine Perfect,” as well as a 2017 collaboration with Buckingham, “Lindsey Buckingham/Christine McVie.”

Lyrics

For you, there’ll be no more crying
For you, the sun will be shining
And I feel that when I’m with you
It’s alright, I know it’s right

To you, I’ll give the world
To you, I’ll never be cold
‘Cause I feel that when I’m with you
It’s alright, I know it’s right

And the songbirds are singing
Like they know the score
And I love you, I love you, I love you
Like never before

And I wish you all the love in the world
But most of all, I wish it from myself

And the songbirds keep singing
Like they know the score
And I love you, I love you, I love you
Like never before
Like never before
Like never before

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott Bonvoy Inspires Travelers to Follow Their Passions Around the World With Winter Hotel Openings

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The Highlight Room at Moxy Lower East Side
Lobby at Delta Hotels by Marriott, Dubai Investment Park
Guest Room at Fairfield by Marriott Hyogo Awaji Fukura

Marriott Bonvoy® – Marriott International’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 hotel brands, award-winning loyalty program, and endless experiences – emboldens travelers to follow their passions across the globe as 2022 comes to a close. With incredible winter openings around the world, Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio takes guests to some of the world’s most profound culinary destinations, to experience relaxing peace and quiet before the holidays, and to check off lingering bucket list items with stays near some of the world’s most popular attractions.

Feeding Culinary Curiosity
For Millennials and Gen Z globe trotters, local delicacies are a significant driver of travel motivation, with 65% of travelers selecting destinations based on the local culinary experiences according to www.DestinationAnalysis.com.

In the city that never sleeps, the recently opened Moxy Lower East Side is an eclectic, stylish hotel in the neighborhood that defines New York cool. Inspired by the entertainment venues that populated the area in centuries past, Moxy Lower East Side features five drinking and dining establishments for the foodie looking for fabulous bites with a lively social scene. Out in the Hiruzen-Kogen Highlands of Japan amidst idyllic scenes of grazing Jersey cattle, the Fairfield by Marriott Okayama Hiruzen Highland invites guests for a gastronomic winter getaway. Local delicacies include Hiruzen’s famed dairy products and locally grown buckwheat noodles, all of which can be experienced at the hotel’s dining outlets.

The Serenity of Peace & Quiet
As the winter weather begins to take hold, travelers are interested in embarking on a relaxing vacation in advance of the peak holiday season, with 82.5% of people considering quiet/peaceful locations relaxing according to www.DestinationAnalysis.com.

Located on three miles of secluded beach, The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club is a vast tropical wellness escape with 15,000 acres of lush paradise. With two championship golf courses, extensive water activities, world-class restaurants, and reinvigorating spa, the hotel’s recent renovation emphasizes rest and well-being. Bringing mindfulness to South Korea’s popular holiday island by the end of this year, JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa features ocean views, indoor /outdoor pools, as well as hot springs with a Korean-style sauna. The resort mimics the island’s natural and serene indigenous culture and seamlessly incorporates programming for guests to recenter themselves. Over on Japan’s Awaji Island, Fairfield Hyogo Minami Awaji is a seamless roadside refuge for nature lovers looking to take in the fresh air. The popular destination is home to Awaichi, a scenic route that circles the entire island known for its picturesque cycling route and outdoor activities.

Checking off the Bucket List
Winter travelers looking to pack in a last-minute trip before the new year are less likely to compromise on the location of their hotels, with 53% of U.S. travelers planning to stay close to popular attractions according to www.DestinationAnalysis.com.

Located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, the Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, offers an enriching beach escape with the brand’s iconic hospitality, serving as the gateway for both leisure-seekers and dynamic business travelers to explore the booming destination. The soon-to-open resort offers 10 restaurants, a kids club, guestrooms with private balconies, a beachside pool, and access to watersports at the West Beach promenade. Another stay in the district of Dubai Investment Park and close to many of the city’s key attractions is the new Delta Hotels by Marriott, Dubai Investment Park, focusing on the details that truly matter. The brand’s 100th hotel delivers streamlined service for guests, and instinctively designed rooms with views of the green courtyard or the surrounding city. Everything shines a little brighter at the chic Le Méridien New York, Fifth Avenue, in a prime New York City location on the city’s most famous street. With an abundance of attractions and neighborhoods nearby, including the Empire State Building, the NoMad District, and the Flatiron Building, guests staying at the soon-to-open hotel will be within proximity to all the city has to offer. In Japan, Fairfield Hyogo Kannabe located in the Kannabe Highlands is a famous region for trekking, paragliding, skiing grassy slopes in summer, and touring the waterfalls in autumn. Opening this winter, the hotel offers a stress-free stay for a bounty of cuisines, never-ending sights, and popular activities.

A Glimpse Into 2023
Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio continues to grow with exciting new openings around the world, energizing vacationers to begin planning their 2023 travel. With a pipeline full of incredible openings, multiple brands are expected to offer unforgettable guest experiences in two dynamic cities in the western United States, in particular.

Slated to open early into the new year, the Moxy Downtown Los Angeles and AC Hotel by Marriott Downtown Los Angeles offer guests two unique brands under one roof. The fusion of these two brands allows guests to take advantage of extra amenities, 13 food & beverage outlets, playful shared social spaces, and furiously fast and free Wi-Fi. Reflecting the bold, adventurous spirit of California, Moxy Downtown Los Angeles is a haven for modern nomads in Los Angeles’ creative epicenter. The 380-room hotel channels the neighborhood’s forward-thinking energy and multicultural heritage, providing fun-hunting travelers with experiences around every corner. At the AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles, guests will find a sanctuary providing discerning travelers the freedom and versatility they crave amid the dynamic streets of Downtown LA. Blending the AC brand’s modern European heritage with Downtown LA’s artistic soul, the 347 ethereal guest rooms provide a streamlined, serene place to live, work, create, and recharge.

Nestled just steps away from the city’s most renowned entertainment, Le Méridien Salt Lake City Downtown and Element Salt Lake City Downtown will offer two distinct brands at one address. Sharing a state-of-the-art rooftop fitness center and outdoor pool, guests can take advantage of the shared amenities and culinary experiences. At Le Méridien Salt Lake City Downtown, travelers can marvel at the sophisticated guest rooms featuring the brand’s mid-century modern design aesthetic, along with contemporary amenities, spa-like bathrooms, and gorgeous city views. Meanwhile, Element Salt Lake City Downtown is the new eco-conscious hotel perfect for travelers looking to maintain the balance of daily routine on the road. The spacious guestrooms are ideal for longer stays, featuring fully equipped kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and beautiful city views.

Marriott Bonvoy members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts across Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of more than 30 extraordinary brands, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments®, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®.

For more information on these new openings and Marriott Bonvoy, enroll in the program for free, or to book directly, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com.

Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to unit and rooms growth; our growth pipeline; expected hotel and other project openings and brand debuts in certain markets; growth and demand trends and expectations for certain product types and in certain markets; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com. Download the Marriott app. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

Media Contact
Shannon Bodo
Manager, Global Communications, Portfolio Marketing
Marriott International
Shannon.Bodo@Marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Expects to Introduce More Than 35 Luxury Hotels Around the World in 2023

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The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie
Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya
Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara
JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge
W Budapest
The Rome EDITION

From International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Cannes, Marriott International, Inc., today announced plans to introduce more than 35 luxury hotels in 2023, delivering the unique and meaningful experiences desired by today’s luxury traveler. Boasting an unrivaled portfolio of luxury brands including The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, St. Regis, W Hotels, The Luxury Collection, EDITION, JW Marriott, and Bulgari Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International continues to push the boundaries, reimagining travel with a globally inspired perspective that defines the future of luxury. With an unparalleled footprint of nearly 500 luxury hotels and resorts in 68 countries and territories today, Marriott International is poised to further its position as the global leader in luxury hospitality with more than 200 luxury properties in the development pipeline. From Kenya to Singapore and Japan to Mexico, more than 35 new hotels are slated to open next year in sought-after and emerging destinations around the world.

Luxury’s Great Reimagining
The world has experienced a seismic cultural shift following the events of the last several years, according to a study exploring the impact on the values and aspirations that matter most to guests, conducted in collaboration with creative agency Team One. “We are looking to the great reimaginers, people who perceive crises as moments of opportunity to rethink their lives and reimagine the world around them. Our collective mindset has changed from viewing travel as a luxury commodity to an activity vital to overall well-being,” said Tina Edmundson, Global Brand and Marketing Officer, Marriott International. “More than ever before, our guests are prioritizing more meaningful travel and time spent with loved ones, looking for experiences that reflect their personal values and enhance their overall quality of life.”

“Whether it’s a focus on nurturing closer relationships, a desire to be more present, or finding ways to make a positive impact, across our luxury brands we are evolving to allow our guests to focus on what they believe matters most,” said Chris Gabaldon, Senior Vice President, Luxury Brands, Marriott International. “As we grow our portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts in some of the most iconic and compelling destinations globally, our expanding footprint allows us to offer the transformative experiences that lead to a renewed sense of purpose and enhanced mental and physical well-being for the modern luxury traveler.”

The Ritz-Carlton Leads Through Innovation While Pursuing Global Growth
Showcasing a new contemporary aesthetic and the renowned brand’s legendary service, The Ritz-Carlton continues to lead through innovation as it thoughtfully grows its portfolio in the world’s most exciting destinations. In 2022, the iconic brand drove global buzz with debuts in New York’s NoMad neighborhood and in Amman, in addition to celebrating the launch of Evrima, the first yacht from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. In the year ahead, the brand expects to open two new hotels in North America, including its first property in America’s Pacific Northwest region with The Ritz-Carlton, Portland, and The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie in Arizona’s coveted Scottsdale area. Set above the city skyline, The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, is slated to grow the brand’s footprint in Australia next year, while The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, is expected to deliver a new offering in the business district of this southwestern Japanese city. Ritz-Carlton Reserve anticipates expanding its exclusive portfolio in 2023 with Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve close to the historic Chinese valley of Jiuzhaigou and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve located off the West Coast of Saudi Arabia and part of the country’s Red Sea project.

St. Regis Celebrates its Vanguard Spirit in Alluring New Destinations
St. Regis continues to solidify its position as a global luxury icon by bringing its vanguard spirit, signature glamor, and celebrated rituals to some of the world’s most desired destinations. Highlighting a commitment to growing its resort portfolio, in 2023 the brand expects to debut The St. Regis Kanai Resort, an enchanting haven nestled in a 620-acre nature reserve along Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula with ocean views from every guestroom. In the year ahead St. Regis also anticipates expanding its footprint in North America with The St. Regis Chicago, an exquisite architectural marvel envisioned by Jeanne Gang Studio. The iconic brand is also slated to bring its acclaimed Butler Service and storied legacy to Belgrade and is expected to open its first two properties in Saudi Arabia by debuting a hotel in Riyadh and a resort located on its own private island within the Red Sea project. This past year also marked St. Regis openings in Qatar, India, Kuwait, and Indonesia.

W Hotels Continues Pushing the Boundaries & Expanding to Iconic Destinations
In 2022, W Hotels introduced an evolved lens on its unassuming approach to luxury and is set to infuse subtle sophistication into each of its 67 hotels around the world. W pushes the boundaries of elevated design, regionally inspired programming and its iconic “Whatever/Whenever” service, which has been refined for the next generation of travelers. With the opening of W Algarve – atop the dramatic cliffs of Southern Portugal – and W Costa Navarino – located along the sandy shorelines of Greece – the brand debuted in two sought-after locales in 2022, providing a glimpse into W’s new vision. This year also brought further growth in the Middle East with the addition of W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, rising 31 stories above the Arabian Gulf, and in Canada with the W Toronto, which nods to the city’s rich musical heritage with Canada’s first W Sound Suite – the brand’s signature recording studio experience – and celebrates Toronto’s storied art scene, diversity of culture and legacy of inclusivity. Looking ahead to 2023, W Hotels anticipates debuting in Prague, Budapest, Edinburgh, Sydney, Macau, and Milan. Also slated for later next year, W New York – Union Square and W Hollywood are expected to emerge newly transformed, embodying the fully reimagined W experience.

EDITION’s Rapid Expansion Continues in Top Destinations
EDITION, a unique luxury collection of individualized hotels considered the next chapter in the lifestyle hotel story, expanded into Madrid and Tampa in 2022. Known for sophisticated design, a curated taste of the locale, and modern service, EDITION Hotels is rapidly expanding internationally in 2023 with new openings planned across several regions, including the brand’s first properties in Italy, Mexico, and Southeast Asia. With 15 hotels currently in the global portfolio, EDITION is projected to grow its personal and intimate hospitality experience to 21 total destinations by the end of 2023, with expected openings next year to include Rome, Riviera Maya at Kanai, Tokyo, Ginza, Singapore, Jeddah, and Doha.

The Luxury Collection Brings Transformational Experiences and Destination-Rooted Authenticity
The Luxury Collection’s growing ensemble of more than 120 hotels around the world offers the promise of authentic experiences that are highly immersive and deeply reflective of the destination. In 2022, the brand showcased elevated palatial interiors and world-class epicurean delights in Madrid with the opening of Santo Mauro, brought luxurious coastal charm to the idyllic Greek island of Paros through Cosme, and made its debut in Australia with the opening of The Tasman in Hobart, a waterfront city steeped in rich history. With each hotel serving as a portal to the destination’s unique charms, The Luxury Collection anticipates debuting properties next year in enthralling locations that span the globe, including Turkey, Barbados, Japan, Mexico, and Tbilisi, Georgia.

JW Marriott Celebrates Guests through Well-Being Experiences and Exceptional Service
Inspired by its legendary namesake and offering experiences that encourage guests to be fully present, JW Marriott caters to sophisticated, mindful travelers who seek a balance in mind, body, and spirit. In 2022, the brand celebrated openings in captivating destinations including São Paulo, Changsha, Istanbul, Bangalore, and Frankfurt, marking the brand’s debut in Germany. In the coming year, JW Marriott anticipates continuing to bring its distinct style of warm, authentic service to established and emerging destinations with planned openings from Madrid to Jeju Island, South Korea, and Dallas to Xi’an and Berlin. The brand is also slated to enter the luxury safari segment in 2023 with the expected opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in Kenya.

Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to expected hotel and other project openings; brand debuts in certain markets; our growth pipeline and future expansion; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or Annual Report on Form 10-K. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc., (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,200 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 138 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.Marriott.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com. Download the Marriott app. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Media Contacts
Erica Flint
Director, Global Communications, Luxury Brands
Marriott International
Erica.Flint@MarriottLuxuryBrands.com

Elizabeth Bishop
Director, Global Communications, Luxury Brands
Marriott International
Elizabeth.Bishop@MarriottLuxuryBrands.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News