Global Travel News

Accor Unveils First Mercure in Putrajaya Malaysia

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Accor Unveils First Mercure in Putrajaya Malaysia - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXPutrajaya, Malaysia, August 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Accor unveils the group’s first Mercure Living concept globally with the opening of Mercure Living Putrajaya, Malaysia. Partnering with Ulster Waves Sdn. Bhd. (a subsidiary of iKHASAS Sdn Bhd), the complex of fully-furnished serviced apartments is located right in the heart of the city and just a short stroll from Putrajaya’s main shopping district, Alamanda Shopping Centre and Shaftsbury Putrajaya Mall.

The property opened on the 1st of July 2022 and is situated in the tallest building of Putrajaya, offering its residents access to the best restaurants and shops in town with tailored features for extended stays. A convenient 30 minute drive from both Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the city centre of Kuala Lumpur, it serves as an excellent base for those visiting the nearby government offices and city of Cyberjaya, home to a science park that forms an integral part of Malaysia’s Multimedia Super Corridor.

Mercure Living Putrajaya offers 299 exquisitely appointed serviced apartments spread across 36 floors, featuring large floor plans, modern furnishings, complete amenities, a fully equipped kitchenette with cooking facilities, washer and dryer, as well as a separate living hall. With a 52-meter salt water infinity swimming pool, 24/7 gym, the Urban Bliss Spa, badminton court, and a well-appointed lounge, guests and residents can enjoy downtime in comfort.

Accor has recently opened multiple hotels in Malaysia, and we are now privileged to introduce Mercure Living in Putrajaya, a remarkable addition to our portfolio of extended stay and serviced apartment properties. This is a significant phase in our continued growth in this country and we believe Mercure Living Putrajaya will be the ideal addition to the hotel landscape in Malaysia. Mercure Living is the perfect concept, providing comprehensive offerings for both international travellers and locals,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer, Accor Southeast Asia, Japan & South Korea.

Guests can tantalize their taste buds at the All-You-Can-Eat Shabu-Shabu Restaurant, Volcano Shabu Shabu, serving an assortment of over 200 items of the finest meats, vegetables, meatballs, noodles, fusion sushi, drinks and desserts. Each ingredient is handpicked to ensure excellence in taste, quality and value. This restaurant also offers premium buffet packages of prime beef and seafood for guests’ dining pleasure.

Soon to be opened and located at the peak of Putrajaya, Thirty6 Lounge will be an ideal place to eat, drink and meet. Offering from traditional freshly brewed coffee to international premium brew, non-alcoholic trendy drinks and fusion tapas, this dedicated lounge is best suited for business entertaining and networking.

Multiple meeting rooms conveniently allow guests to curate their personalized events and meetings in design-focused venues blessed with natural light and panoramic views of the city of Putrajaya.

“I am extremely honored to announce the opening of Mercure Living Putrajaya. The rooms, overlooking Putrajaya’s capital city, deliver comfortable stays with all the comforts of home and the facilities are perfect for a long-term stay or even a weekend getaway. We look forward to welcoming guests and showcasing the best that the area has to offer with the new and unique concept of Mercure Living,” said David Tai, General Manager, Mercure Living Putrajaya.

Part of the group’s commitment to reducing environmental impact and strengthening efforts to combat plastic pollution, Mercure Living Putrajaya applies no single-use plastics from every touchpoint of the guest experience in all areas. This property also supports local and autism artists by featuring paintings by Art-Jamila.

Accor is the largest operator of extended stay and serviced apartment properties outside of the United States of America. The group offers a leading portfolio of over 300 extended stay properties, comprising of serviced apartments and apart-hotels under brands including Swissôtel Living, Mövenpick Living, Novotel Living, and Mercure Living.

Guests of Mercure Living Putrajaya can take advantage of Accor’s loyalty programme ALL – Accor Live Limitless, a daily lifestyle companion. ALL delivers meaningful experiences and rewards to its most engaged customers while enabling them to work, live, and play, far beyond their stay, at home and around the world.

Enjoy the opening special offer for reservations from now until 30 September 2022 for stays until 20 December 2022, from RM350/night inclusive of daily breakfast for two persons and receive an upgraded to a two-bedroom apartment for just RM100 inclusive of breakfast for a third person.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IATA Strong Passenger Demand Continues in June

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IATA Strong Passenger Demand Continues in June - AIRLINEHUB.com - TRAVELINDEXGeneva, Switzerland, August 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced passenger data for June 2022 showing that the recovery in air travel remains strong.

– Total traffic in June 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) was up 76.2% compared to June 2021, primarily propelled by the ongoing strong recovery in international traffic. Globally, traffic is now at 70.8% of pre-crisis levels.

– Domestic traffic for June 2022 was up 5.2% compared to the year-ago period. Strong improvements in most markets, combined with the easing of some Omicron-related lockdown restrictions in the Chinese domestic market, contributed to the result. Total June 2022 domestic traffic was at 81.4% of the June 2019 level.

– International traffic rose 229.5% versus June 2021. The lifting of travel restrictions in most parts of Asia-Pacific is contributing to the recovery. June 2022 international RPKs reached 65.0% of June 2019 levels.

“Demand for air travel remains strong. After two years of lockdowns and border restrictions people are taking advantage of the freedom to travel wherever they can,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

– Asia-Pacific airlines had a 492.0% rise in June traffic compared to June 2021. Capacity rose 138.9% and the load factor was up 45.8 percentage points to 76.7%. The region is now relatively open to foreign visitors and tourism which is helping foster the recovery.

– European carriers’ June traffic rose 234.4% versus June 2021. Capacity rose 134.5%, and load factor climbed 25.8 percentage points to 86.3%. International traffic within Europe is above pre-pandemic levels in seasonally adjusted terms.

– Middle Eastern airlines’ traffic rose 246.5% in June compared to June 2021. June capacity rose 102.4% versus the year-ago period, and load factor climbed 32.4 percentage points to 78.0%.

– North American carriers experienced a 168.9% traffic rise in June versus the 2021 period. Capacity rose 95.0%, and load factor climbed 24.1 percentage points to 87.7%, which was the highest among the regions.

– Latin American airlines’ June traffic rose 136.6% compared to the same month in 2021. June capacity rose 107.4% and load factor increased 10.3 percentage points to 83.3%. After leading the regions in load factor for 20 consecutive months, Latin America slipped back to third place in June.

– African airlines had a 103.6% rise in June RPKs versus a year ago. June 2022 capacity was up 61.9% and load factor climbed 15.2 percentage points to 74.2%, the lowest among regions. International traffic between Africa and neighboring regions is close to pre-pandemic levels.

The Bottom Line
“With the Northern Hemisphere summer travel season now fully underway, predictions that the lifting of travel restrictions would unleash a torrent of pent-up travel demand are being borne out. At the same time, meeting that demand has proved challenging and likely will continue to be so. All the more reason to continue to show flexibility to the slot use rules. The European Commission’s intent to return to the longstanding 80-20 requirement is premature.

“Just look at the issues that airlines and their passengers at some hub airports are being confronted with. These airports are unable to support their declared capacity even with the current 64% slot threshold and have extended recent passenger caps until the end of October. Flexibility is still essential in support of a successful recovery.

“By capping passenger numbers, airports are preventing airlines from benefitting from the strong demand. Heathrow Airport has tried to blame airlines for the disruption. However, Service Level Performance data for the first six months of this year show that they have failed miserably to provide basic services and missed their Passenger Security service target by a massive 14.3 points. Data for June has not yet been published but is expected to show the lowest level of service by the airport since records began,” said Walsh.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Rosewood Hotels Announces Rosewood Residences Beverly Hills

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Rosewood Hotels Announces Rosewood Residences Beverly Hills - TOP25HOMES.com - TRAVELINDEXBeverly Hills, California, United States, August 4, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Exclusive Development Marks Rosewood’s First Standalone Branded Residential Project in Los Angeles, California. Rosewood Hotels & Resorts® continues to grow its portfolio of exceptional residences with the announcement today of Rosewood Residences Beverly Hills, the brand,s first standalone residential condominium development in California. Located on Santa Monica Boulevard neighboring world-renowned landmarks and timeless Beverly Hills icons, the boutique development, comprised of 17 ultra-luxury residences, will serve as a model for enriched living in Southern California. Developed by Nahla Capital and GPI Companies, Rosewood Residences Beverly Hills is scheduled for completion in 2024, with sales to officially commence in 2023.

Situated in the heart of Beverly Hills, Rosewood Residences Beverly Hills features exterior architecture and interiors designed by Thomas Juul-Hansen, known internationally for his excellence in craftsmanship and design of residential developments, custom residences and elegant restaurants. Evoking Rosewood’s guiding A Sense of Place® philosophy, wherein each property reflects the texture and typology of its location, the residences will feature custom interiors and exquisite finishes that epitomize California’s timeless and casual sophistication. Ranging from 3,000 to over 7,000 square feet, every private home comprises a vast array of truly unique amenities including private elevator access, large entry foyers, indoor and outdoor living areas, expansive chefs’ kitchens with double islands, and mudroom/laundry rooms accessed by a discrete service elevator. Private swimming pools in nearly half the residences will create a focal point for their large terraces. Additional al-fresco features and amenities scattered across select residences include fully equipped outdoor kitchens, wet bars and firepits, lending to exceptional living and entertaining.

“As the popularity of standalone branded residences continues to grow, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts is thrilled to present this opportunity to enjoy the height of living in the prominent market of Beverly Hills,” said Brad Berry, vice president of Global Residential Development at Rosewood Hotel Group. “Thoughtfully conceived to extend the utmost in design, service and experience, Rosewood Residences Beverly Hills is poised to emerge as one of the most desirable destinations not only in California, but across the country. We are proud to bring this incredible project to life alongside our partners and to further reinforce our commitment to delivering exceptional residential experiences in the most sought-after locations around the world.”

Rosewood Residences Beverly Hills will be exclusively managed by a dedicated Rosewood Residential Team who oversee every aspect of the property’s luxury service offerings. Coveted amenities will be available to its intimate group of homeowners, including a beautiful resort-like rooftop retreat featuring a pool, whirlpool spa, fitness center and outdoor relaxation areas boasting breathtaking views of the city. Residents will also enjoy communal rooftop lounge and dining spaces affording them with the ability to host gatherings small or large.

“Nahla Capital and GPI Companies are proud to work alongside Rosewood Hotels & Resorts to introduce Rosewood Residences to the iconic Beverly Hills community,” said Genghis Hadi, co-founder and managing principal of Nahla Capital. “Rosewood Residences Beverly Hills will consist of one-of-a-kind homes with many exquisite amenities, and we are excited to collaborate with Rosewood, Compass Development Marketing group and best in class firms including Thomas Juul-Hansen and executive architect MVE Architects to bring this project to life.”

About Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts manages a global collection of 30 one-of-a-kind luxury hotels, resorts and residences in 18 countries. Each Rosewood property embraces the brand’s A Sense of Place® philosophy to reflect the individual location’s history, culture and sensibilities. The Rosewood collection includes some of the world’s most legendary hotels and resorts, including The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel in New York, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas and Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel in Paris, as well as new classics such as Rosewood Hong Kong and Rosewood São Paulo. For those who wish to stay a little longer, Rosewood Residences offer a distinct opportunity for the ownership or rental of properties co-located with a Rosewood hotel or resort and of standalone for-sale residences. Rosewood Residences are defined by the brand’s commitment to Enriched Living through thoughtful details and experiences that enhance the quality of life while evoking a sense of discovery and inspiration.

About Nahla Capital
Nahla Capital is a New York based Real Estate Private Equity firm that manages and invests capital for institutional and global private clients in core urban markets in the United States. We invest in urban markets that are major gateway cities in the United States including New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Austin and Chicago, which have positive economic growth factors, compelling supply and demand dynamics, and strong employment sectors. At Nahla Capital we create a risk-adjusted investment strategy for our investors. We focus on delivering superior returns while actively managing exposure to risk and market fluctuations. We invest in core-plus, value add and opportunistic and mezzanine transactions. To date, Nahla Capital has invested in excess of $400 million in equity for a total AUM of $1.85 billion.

About GPI Companies
Founded in 2008 as Goldstein Planting Investments, GPI Companies is managed by Cliff Goldstein, Drew Planting, and Lee Wagman. GPI Companies is a real estate investment and development firm that pursues a targeted range of properties where value can be enhanced through repositioning, redevelopment, or increased operational efficiency. The company and its principals have a history of delivering superior returns to their investors by successfully identifying and exploiting mispriced assets while at the same time minimizing volatility. GPI has the expertise and experience to execute projects of various sizes and complexity. With a team of seasoned real estate executives, the company’s real estate investments are managed and operated directly by GPI Companies. Capital partners include prominent private equity funds, public pension plans, offshore investors, and family offices. The three partners of GPI Companies have more than 100 years of combined experience and have acquired or developed over $6 billion in award-winning urban real estate assets and leased and managed more than 20 million square feet of commercial space.

About Compass Development Marketing Group
From project inception to building sellout, Compass Development Marketing Group partners with the world’s most forward-thinking developers and innovative architects through the lifespan of a project. Leveraging tenured expertise and the industry’s most powerful technological resources, we provide strategic advice for record-breaking results. The company offers a comprehensive range of developer services, including research and analysis, planning and design, marketing and sales for luxury real estate. With nationwide representation in over 200 Compass offices, CDMG empowers residential developers with an unparalleled sales footprint in the United States. Licensed as Compass. CDMG is a subsidiary of Compass, a Fortune 500 company and the leading real estate brokerage in the United States by sales volume.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SAii Phi Phi Island Village Brings Marine Conservation to Life

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SAii Phi Phi Island Village Brings Marine Conservation to Life - TRAVELINDEXKoh Phi Phi, Thailand, August 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / SAii Phi Phi Island Village allows guests to witness its environmental projects first-hand with a series of underwater excursions that integrate with the activities of the Marine Discovery Centre, including coral propagation and clownfish breeding programmes. The five-star lifestyle resort from S Hotels and Resorts PCL, has always put sustainability first and strived to preserve its precious environment. This idyllic island retreat also understands that its guests, or “InSAiiders”, seek activities that bring them closer to nature and have a positive impact on the planet. With this in mind, two of the resort’s facilities – the Gold Palm Dive Centre and Marine Discovery Centre – have come together to create immersive, eco-sensitive diving experiences that allow travellers to explore the vibrant underwater world in a highly responsible way.

• Discover amazing Thailand during the Visit Thailand Year 2022 – 2023 at VisitThailand.net

A series of professionally-led diving excursions from SAii Phi Phi Island Village allow guests to witness first-hand the work of the resort’s resident marine biologist, who works tirelessly to replenish the area’s rich and diverse ecosystems. Having visited the Marine Discovery Centre and learned about the various projects being undertaken, including coral propagation and breeding and release programmes for clownfish and bamboo sharks, divers can take a trip out into the sparkling waters of Hat Nappharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park and see the effect these initiatives are having.

Diving into this spectacular seascape, InnSAiiders can explore the freshly planted fields of sea grass, which are wonderful nursery habitats for small fish – including the iconic clownfish that have been cared for and released by the Marine Discovery Centre. Divers and snorkellers can also see newly-grown coral at the house reef and the colourful sealife that depends in it. While the bamboo shark breeding programme is still in its incubation stages, visitors may be fortunate enough to see other keystone species in the area, such as blacktip reef sharks, leopard sharks, green turtles, hawksbill turtles and even whale sharks further offshore. A total of 17 bamboo sharks are ready to be released from the Marine Discovery Centre’s breeding facility in the coming weeks and months, so future divers may be able to witness these elegant creatures in their natural habitat.

Divers can rest assured that the PADI-certified Gold Palm Dive Centre, which is also part of the UN’s Green Fins sustainability programme, is staffed by highly experienced instructors and welcomes youngsters from the age of eight. Before they head out in small, low-impact groups, all visitors will be given a briefing on marine conservation to ensure that they act responsibly.

Guests may also notice that the seas of Hat Nappharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park are now cleaner, which is partially thanks to the efforts of SAii Phi Phi Island Village. Waste disposal is always a challenging issue for an island community, so the team of “SAiiLanders” – SAii Resorts’ term for its thoughtful associates – works with local villagers every week to clear waste from the area’s beaches and coastlines. Since this initiative commenced in 2021, 18 activities have been held and over 8,098kg of trash has been collected.

To ensure that it doesn’t accidentally contribute to the waste problem, SAii Phi Phi Island Village participates in the Thai Hotels Association’s Plastic Free Project and actively strives to reduce its consumption and output. It has eliminated single-use plastics, sorts recyclable waste carefully, minimises the use of paper and printer ink, and turns organic waste into compost. The resort also recycles 100 percent of its wastewater, which is treated and used to nourish the gardens and trees.

“At SAii Phi Phi Island Village, we recognise that we have a duty to care for the environment and keep it healthy for future generations. There are many challenges facing the oceans today, from climate change and coral degradation to plastic pollution and over-fishing, which are contributing to species decline and loss of biodiversity. But by taking practical steps to support conservation at our Marine Discovery Centre, then showing our InSAiiders the positive impact of our work first-hand, we hope to inspire even more guests – and especially young people – to help us preserve our seas and oceans,” said Bart Callens, Cluster General Manager of SAii Phi Phi Island Village and SAii Laguna Phuket.

• Discover amazing Thailand during the Visit Thailand Year 2022 – 2023 at VisitThailand.net

The responsible dive packages at SAii Phi Phi Island Village start from “Bubble Makers” (for kids 8-10 years old) to advanced open water options. Beginners will be supported on every step of their diving journey, from the swimming pool to the sea, by Khun Pang, the resort’s highly skilled dive instructor. Prices start from THB 3,200.

About S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited
S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited, the hospitality arm of Singha Estate Public Company Limited, is a fast-growing, Thai-inspired company with an extensive international portfolio and world-class standards. Specialising in the management and investment of high-quality hotels and resorts in desirable destinations across the globe, S Hotels & Resorts has created a collection of its own distinctive lifestyle brands, whilst also partnering with the hospitality industry’s leading names. The company aims to set new standards for leisure and lifestyle through diversified business platforms and to enhance value for all its stakeholders based upon a philosophy of sustainable development and delivering benefits to local communities.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Health A-listers Celebrate Grand Opening of CHEVALA Wellness Hua Hin

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Thai Health A-listers Celebrate Grand Opening of CHEVALA Wellness Hua Hin - TRAVELINDEX - FABULOUSTHAILAND.comHua Hin, Thailand, August 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The latest innovative medical hub offers comprehensive wellness and beauty programs at a world-class resort, taking high-end retreat to the next level with Thailand’s first medical-grade wellness innovation center. Thailand’s leading doctors in wellness and aesthetic medicine launched CHEVALA Wellness Hua Hin, the latest Wellness Innovation destination. In collaboration with InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, “CHEVALA Wellness Hua Hin,” Thailand’s first premium medical wellness center, exclusively developed comprehensive wellness and beauty programs that include health restoration activities and an accommodation package at the world-class beachfront resort, creating the ultimate health and beauty vacation destination.

The celebrity-packed grand opening attracted Thailand’s A-listers including Suquan ‘Kwan’ Bulakul, Sikanya ‘Pau’ Saktidej Bhanubanh, Nachanok ‘Golf’ Rattanataros, Jay Spencer, Jareyadee ‘Ple’ Spencer, Manasanun ‘Ann’ Naklada, Anucha ‘Meng’ Lertsapanant, Onchuma ‘Fay’ Durongdej, Pitipat ‘Ti’ Preedanont, Patinya ‘Guitar’ Kyokong, Suwara ‘Ming’ Sanitwong na Ayutthaya, Jarospan ‘Jui’ Svastiwat Na Ayutthaya, Jongjin ‘Jin’ Jungsura, Virakarn ‘Maprang’ Seneetantikul and Patson ‘Pat’ Sarindu. The top socialites celebrated the destination for a body and mind healing experience exclusively designed by medical specialists.

CHEVALA Wellness Hua Hin introduced five holistic health and beauty programs for comprehensive health restoration 1) Long Covid Recovery Program 2) Anti-Aging Program 3) Immune Booster 4) Detoxification and 5) Cardiovascular Strengthening Program. Equipped with the latest wellness technology and medical-grade equipment, each program is fully customizable based on health checkup results and the doctor’s recommendations, delivering noticeable results from the first treatment. The beautifully designed wellness innovation center targets health-conscious customers who look to revive their physical and mental health, while relaxing at the beachfront paradise.

At the CHEVALA Grand Opening event, Dr. Ratkawin Jitawatanarat, an American Board of hematology and medical oncology; anti-aging specialist, said “Nowadays, the practice of preventive medicine to prevent disease and restore patient well-being is rising in popularity. Therefore, we created ‘CHEVALA’ to become the country’s first comprehensive medical wellness center. CHEVALA is the ultimate medical hub that promotes all aspects of well-being. Our center combines medical expertise, science-backed technology, and luxurious wellness practices to create a tailor-made healthy living. With the support from InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, we developed unique health and wellness programs that include exclusive activities and an accommodation package at the resort. Our center uses only world-class equipment and innovative technology to offer Thailand’s first premium medical and beauty programs at an ultra-luxurious resort. We want to give our international and local customers the best-in-class service to help them restore their body, mind, and soul.”

According to Dr. Ratkawin, CHEVALA Wellness Hua Hin offers 5 exclusively designed health programs. This year’s highlighted program is the Long Covid Recovery Program, CHEVALA signature program which aims to treat Long Covid symptoms such as fatigue. The package includes Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) which involves breathing 100% pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. The therapy helps promote healing at the cellular level, revitalizing the energy level. It has been proven effective in treating headaches, boosting immunity, reducing swelling and bruises as well as promoting overall skin healing. HBOT is the therapy that many global A-listers swear by. The highly raved pure oxygen chamber is now available at CHEVALA Wellness Hua Hin.

There are four more featured programs at CHEVALA. 1) Anti-Aging Program: featuring IV laser, IV vitamin therapy, and weight management plan that includes yoga training and exercise program with personal trainers 2) Immune Booster Program: a course incorporating a variety of treatments. Using Japan’s latest technology, the doctor will analyze the NK cell levels both pre and post-treatment to provide personalized treatment aimed to boost immunity. 3) Detox Program: deeply excreting toxins and heavy metals from the body using chelation therapy treatment. 4) Cardiovascular Strengthening Program: a comprehensive program to keep the heart young and healthy.

High-profile celebrity and television personality Suquan ‘Kwan’ Bulakul, who is always on the move, talked about how health technology helped her maintain a healthy lifestyle despite her busy schedule, “Nowadays, women have taken on multiple roles to meet work and family responsibilities. Sometimes, working long hours with uncertain schedules and not getting enough sleep affect my health and well-being. I’m interested in programs that integrate innovations to help release deep tiredness, boost immunity, and refresh my body and skin. World-class technology can help heal your body at the cellular level, showing visible before and after results. With doctors giving me consultations at every step, I can rest assured that I am in good hands.”

Top celebrity and health aficionado Jareyadee Spencer talked about her healthy lifestyle, “Hua Hin has always been my to-go getaway to spend quality time with my family and friends. I am very excited that there is a new medical wellness center here. After trying out some of CHEVALA’s unique programs, I can say that this is the ultimate health and beauty destination. The personalized programs are designed to target different needs based on your health results and the doctor’s recommendations. CHEVALA is the new hottest spot for health enthusiasts out there.”

CHEVALA Wellness Hua Hin, the integrated health destination, offers a half-day to 8-day medical and wellness journey to fully revive the body, mind, and soul. Each program is under a supervision of a doctor and is fully customizable with the option to choose the treatment, length, and target results to meet every lifestyle. The full course includes chef-prepared meals and a room at InterContinental Hua Hin Resort. Packages start at 9,500 baht.

CHEVALA Wellness Hua Hin is now fully open to the public. Adjacent to InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, the new wellness innovation destination at Bluport Hua Hin Mall offers unique medical programs with next-level customer service. For more information, please call 096 919 2190

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

International Tourism with Strong Recovery Amid Growing Challenges

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UNWTO - International Tourism with Strong Recovery Amid Growing Challenges - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, August 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / International tourism continues to show signs of a strong and steady recovery from the impact of the pandemic despite significant mounting economic and geopolitical challenges.

According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourism saw a strong rebound in the first five months of 2022, with almost 250 million international arrivals recorded. This compares to 77 million arrivals from January to May 2021 and means that the sector has recovered almost half (46%) of pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

“The recovery of tourism has gathered pace in many parts of the world, weathering the challenges standing in its way”, said UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. At the same time, he also advises caution in view of the “economic headwinds and geopolitical challenges which could impact the sector in the remainder of 2022 and beyond”.

Europe and Americas lead recovery

Europe welcomed more than four times as many international arrivals as in the first five months of 2021 (+350%), boosted by strong intra-regional demand and the removal of all travel restrictions in a growing number of countries. The region saw particularly robust performance in April (+458%), reflecting a busy Easter period. In the Americas, arrivals more than doubled (+112%). However, the strong rebound is measured against weak results in 2021 and arrivals remain overall 36% and 40% below 2019 levels in both regions, respectively.

The recovery of tourism has gathered pace in many parts of the world, weathering the challenges standing in its way

The same pattern is seen across other regions. The strong growth in the Middle East (+157%) and Africa (+156%) remained 54% and 50% below 2019 levels respectively, and Asia and the Pacific almost doubled arrivals (+94%), though numbers were 90% below 2019, as some borders remained closed to non-essential travel. Here, the recent easing of restrictions can be seen in improved results for April and May.

Looking at subregions, several have recovered between 70% and 80% of their pre-pandemic levels, led by the Caribbean and Central America, followed by Southern Mediterranean, Western and Northern Europe. It is noteworthy that some destinations surpassed 2019 levels, including US Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, the Republic of Moldova, Albania, Honduras and Puerto Rico.

Tourism spending also rising

Rising tourism spending out of the major source markets is consistent with the observed recovery. International expenditure by tourists from France, Germany, Italy and the United States is now at 70% to 85% of pre-pandemic levels, while spending from India, Saudi Arabia and Qatar has already exceeded 2019 levels.

In terms of international tourism receipts earned in destinations, a growing number of countries – the Republic of Moldova, Serbia, Seychelles, Romania, North Macedonia, Saint Lucia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Albania, Pakistan, Sudan, Türkiye, Bangladesh, El Salvador, Mexico, Croatia and Portugal – have fully recovered their pre-pandemic levels.

Defying mounting challenges

Strong demand during the Northern Hemisphere summer season is expected to consolidate these positive results, particularly as more destinations ease or lift travel restrictions. As of 22 July, 62 destinations (of which 39 in Europe) had no COVID-19 related restrictions in place and an increasing number of destinations in Asia have started to ease theirs.

According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the overall reduction in international air capacity in 2022 will be limited to 20% to 25% of seats offered by airlines as compared to 2019. Such resilience is also reflected in hotel occupancy rates. Based on data from the industry benchmarking firm STR, global occupancy rates climbed to 66% in June 2022, from 43% in January.

However, stronger than expected demand has created significant operational and workforce challenges, while the war in Ukraine, rising inflation and interest rates, as well as fears of an economic slowdown continue to pose a risk to recovery. The International Monetary Fund points to a global economic slowdown from 6.1% in 2021 to 3.2% in 2022 and then to 2.9% in 2023. At the same time, UNWTO continues to work closely with the World Health Organisation (WHO) to monitor the pandemic as well as emerging public health emergencies and their potential impact on travel.

Regional Scenarios for 2022

UNWTO’s forward-looking scenarios published in May 2022 point to international arrivals reaching 55% to 70% of pre-pandemic levels in 2022. Results depend on evolving circumstances, mostly changing travel restrictions, ongoing inflation, including high energy prices, and overall economic conditions, the evolution of the war in Ukraine, as well as the health situation related to the pandemic. More recent challenges such as staff shortages, severe airport congestion and flight delays and cancellations could also impact international tourism numbers.

Scenarios by region show Europe and Americas recording the best tourism results in 2022, while Asia and the Pacific is expected to lag behind due to more restrictive travel policies. International tourist arrivals in Europe could climb to 65% or 80% of 2019 levels in 2022, depending on various conditions, while in the Americas they could reach 63% to 76% of those levels.

In Africa and the Middle East arrivals could reach about 50% to 70% of pre-pandemic levels, while in Asia and the Pacific they would remain at 30% of 2019 levels in the best-case scenario, due to stricter policies and restrictions.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA Publishes Food and Plastic Waste Reduction Standards for Tourism

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PATA Publishes Food and Plastic Waste Reduction Standards for Tourism - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is proud to publish the Food and Plastic Waste Reduction Standard for Tourism Businesses as part of its commitment to the European Union (EU)-funded TourLink project, under the EU SWITCH-ASIA Programme.

TourLink aims to drive Thai tour operators and suppliers, from hotels to transport companies and activity providers, towards sustainability. Under the project, PATA collaborates with members of the Thai-EU tourism supply chain to develop a series of capacity-building initiatives that promote best practices for sustainable tourism growth. PATA takes on a crucial role in developing new standards, toolkits and trainings that empower Thai tourism professionals to embrace sustainability in their operations as the industry recovers from COVID-19.

As PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera says, “PATA is focused on supporting the industry recovery with tangible in-market projects that can demonstrate practical, responsible and sustainable solutions. Our goal is to develop and share business models that combine sustainability with profitability. Creating strong sustainability development plans brings businesses a competitive advantage in addressing a growing consumer interest and global need.”

A key component of TourLink involves achieving common standards for sustainability in the industry to transform Thailand into a leading sustainable tourism destination. According to TourLink Project Manager, Peter Richards, “Strengthening tourism and hospitality businesses’ sustainability will help the sector become more resilient in the face of future crises, save critical resources and boost overall morale as we prepare for a greener tourism reopening.”

Following the success of PATA’s BUFFET Toolkit and Plastic Free Toolkit for Tour Operators (which are also available in Thai), PATA recently published the Food and Plastic Waste Reduction Standard for Tourism Businesses. The standards act as a guide for all tourism businesses, professionals and communities to reduce food waste and plastic waste in their operations. According to Peter Richards, “The standards were developed through thorough research on food and plastic waste reduction strategies in tourism along with consultations with experts and partner organisations”.

As Fernanda Rodak, PATA Project Coordinator of Sustainability and Social Responsibility and lead author, adds, “The standards can be applied as a checklist, a step-by-step guide as well as a training tool for waste prevention in the tourism and hospitality sector”. Underpinned by the circular economy framework and the hierarchy of waste reduction strategies, the document encompasses best practices across the industry on sustainability management and tools and resources for practitioners to advance their food and plastic waste reduction efforts.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its member organisations, which including government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has official offices or representation in Beijing and London.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott International Reports Outstanding Second Quarter 2022 Results and Resumes Share Repurchases

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  • Second quarter 2022 comparable systemwide constant dollar RevPAR increased 70.6 percent worldwide, 66.1 percent in the U.S. & Canada, and 87.8 percent in international markets, compared to the 2021 second quarter;
  • Second quarter 2022 comparable systemwide constant dollar RevPAR declined 2.9 percent worldwide and 14.1 percent in international markets, while RevPAR increased 1.3 percent in the U.S. & Canada, compared to the 2019 second quarter;
  • Second quarter reported diluted EPS totaled $2.06, compared to reported diluted EPS of $1.28 in the year-ago quarter. Second quarter adjusted diluted EPS totaled $1.80, compared to second quarter 2021 adjusted diluted EPS of $0.79;
  • Second quarter reported net income totaled $678 million, compared to reported net income of $422 million in the year-ago quarter. Second quarter adjusted net income totaled $593 million, compared to second quarter 2021 adjusted net income of $260 million;
  • Adjusted EBITDA totaled $1,019 million in the 2022 second quarter, compared to second quarter 2021 adjusted EBITDA of $558 million;
  • The company added roughly 17,000 rooms globally during the second quarter, including approximately 9,200 rooms in international markets and nearly 4,400 conversion rooms;
  • At quarter end, Marriott’s worldwide development pipeline totaled nearly 2,950 properties and more than 495,000 rooms, including roughly 27,400 rooms approved, but not yet subject to signed contracts. Approximately 203,300 rooms in the pipeline were under construction as of the end of the 2022 second quarter;
  • Marriott resumed share repurchases in the second quarter, repurchasing 1.9 million shares of the company’s common stock for $300 million. Year-to-date through July 29, the company has repurchased 2.9 million shares for $448 million.

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) today reported second quarter 2022 results.

Anthony Capuano, Chief Executive Officer, said, “Marriott’s second quarter results highlight consumers’ love for travel. We reported outstanding results, as momentum in global lodging recovery continued. With demand increasing across all customer segments throughout the quarter, and nearly all countries easing travel restrictions, worldwide RevPAR1 surpassed 2019 levels in June. Second quarter average daily rate was robust, at 7 percent above 2019 levels, and worldwide occupancy reached 68 percent.

“In the U.S. & Canada, June RevPAR increased 3 percent compared to 2019. Among customer segments, group RevPAR saw the most meaningful acceleration in the second quarter, down just 1 percent to 2019 in June, compared to down nearly 30 percent in the first quarter. We have not seen signs of leisure travel abating, with leisure room nights in the region more than 15 percent higher than second quarter 2019, and ADR meaningfully outpacing pre-pandemic levels. Europe also experienced notably strong RevPAR recovery, in large part due to the return of international visitors, with June RevPAR exceeding 2019.

“Marriott Bonvoy hit 169 million members by quarter’s end. As our loyal guests get back on the road, penetration in the U.S. stood at 59 percent in the second quarter, topping 2019. Members are increasingly engaging with us during and outside of hotel stays. Second quarter co-brand credit card fees increased nearly 40 percent year over year, driven by continued strength in global cardholder acquisitions and cardholder spend, both of which achieved record levels in the quarter.

“On the development front, signing activity has accelerated in 2022, setting a second quarter record. We signed 23,000 rooms around the world in the second quarter, nearly 30 percent of which were conversions from competitor brands. Conversions continue to be a meaningful growth driver, comprising roughly 25 percent of room additions in the quarter.

“I am proud of the remarkable work our team has accomplished since the beginning of the pandemic. This has been the most challenging period in our company’s history, but the resiliency of our associates and our business model have never been more evident. With our robust cash flow and profits, we resumed share repurchases during the second quarter, in addition to paying a cash dividend. Looking ahead, we are optimistic about our financial outlook and strong cash generation and expect to return more than $2.2 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases in 2022.”

Second Quarter 2022 Results
Marriott’s reported operating income totaled $950 million in the 2022 second quarter, compared to 2021 second quarter reported operating income of $486 million. Reported net income totaled $678 million in the 2022 second quarter, compared to 2021 second quarter reported net income of $422 million. Reported diluted earnings per share (EPS) totaled $2.06 in the quarter, compared to reported diluted EPS of $1.28 in the year-ago quarter.

Adjusted operating income in the 2022 second quarter totaled $857 million, compared to 2021 second quarter adjusted operating income of $406 million.

Second quarter 2022 adjusted net income totaled $593 million, compared to 2021 second quarter adjusted net income of $260 million. Adjusted diluted EPS in the 2022 second quarter totaled $1.80, compared to adjusted diluted EPS of $0.79 in the year-ago quarter. The 2022 second quarter adjusted results excluded $11 million after-tax ($0.03 per share) of gains on investees’ property sales and a $2 million after-tax ($0.01 per share) gain on an asset disposition. The 2021 second quarter adjusted results excluded special tax items of $98 million ($0.30 per share).

Adjusted results also excluded cost reimbursement revenue, reimbursed expenses and restructuring, merger-related charges, and other expenses. See pages A-3 and A-12 for the calculation of adjusted results and the manner in which the adjusted measures are determined in this press release.

Base management and franchise fees totaled $938 million in the 2022 second quarter, compared to base management and franchise fees of $587 million in the year-ago quarter. The year-over-year increase in these fees is primarily attributable to RevPAR increases due to the ongoing recovery in lodging demand, as well as unit growth. Other non-RevPAR related franchise fees in the 2022 second quarter totaled $204 million, compared to $160 million in the year-ago quarter, aided by $40 million of higher credit card branding fees.

Incentive management fees totaled $135 million in the 2022 second quarter, compared to $55 million in the 2021 second quarter. More than one half of the incentive management fees recognized in the quarter were earned at hotels in the U.S. & Canada.

Owned, leased, and other revenue, net of direct expenses, totaled $83 million in the 2022 second quarter, compared to $19 million in the year-ago quarter. The $64 million increase in revenue net of expenses year over year largely reflects the ongoing recovery in lodging demand.

General, administrative, and other expenses for the 2022 second quarter totaled $231 million, compared to $187 million in the year-ago quarter. The year-over-year increase primarily reflects higher incentive compensation.

Interest expense, net, totaled $89 million in the second quarter compared to $102 million in the year-ago quarter. The decrease is largely due to lower interest expense associated with lower debt balances.

Equity in earnings/losses for the second quarter totaled $15 million of earnings, compared to an $8 million loss in the year-ago quarter. The improvement largely reflects $13 million of gains on joint ventures’ sales of hotels and improved results at joint venture properties due to the ongoing recovery in lodging demand.

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) totaled $1,019 million in the 2022 second quarter, compared to second quarter 2021 adjusted EBITDA of $558 million. See page A-12 for the adjusted EBITDA calculation.

Selected Performance Information
The company added 97 properties (16,917 rooms) to its worldwide lodging portfolio during the 2022 second quarter, including nearly 4,400 rooms converted from competitor brands and approximately 9,200 rooms in international markets. Twenty-five properties (3,661 rooms) exited the system during the quarter. At quarter end, Marriott’s global lodging system totaled more than 8,100 properties, with over 1,500,000 rooms.

At quarter end, the company’s worldwide development pipeline totaled 2,942 properties with more than 495,000 rooms, including 1,014 properties with approximately 203,300 rooms, or 41 percent of the pipeline, under construction and 197 properties with roughly 27,400 rooms approved for development, but not yet subject to signed contracts.

In the 2022 second quarter, worldwide RevPAR increased 70.6 percent (a 69.1 percent increase using actual dollars) compared to the 2021 second quarter. RevPAR in the U.S. & Canada increased 66.1 percent (a 66.0 percent increase using actual dollars), and RevPAR in international markets increased 87.8 percent (an 80.4 percent increase using actual dollars).

Balance Sheet
At quarter end, Marriott’s net debt was $8.3 billion, representing total debt of $8.8 billion less cash and cash equivalents of $0.5 billion. At year-end 2021, the company’s net debt was $8.7 billion, representing total debt of $10.1 billion less cash and cash equivalents of $1.4 billion.

Marriott Common Stock
The company repurchased 1.9 million shares of common stock in the 2022 second quarter for $300 million at an average price of $157.38 per share. Year-to-date through July 29, the company has repurchased 2.9 million shares for $448 million at an average price of $152.99 per share.

2022 Outlook

2022 Q2 Outlook

Table footnotes
[1]The increase in expected deletions compared to the company’s prior expectation is due to the company’s suspension of its operations in Russia.

[2] The change in expected expense compared to the company’s prior expectation primarily reflects an increase in incentive compensation.

[3] See pages A-13 & A-14 for the adjusted EBITDA calculation.

[4] Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EPS – diluted for third quarter and full year 2022 do not include cost reimbursement revenue, reimbursed expenses, or restructuring, merger-related charges, and other expenses, which the company cannot accurately forecast, and which may be significant, and do not reflect any asset sales that may occur during the remainder of the year. Adjusted EPS – diluted for full year 2022 excludes impairments, gains on investees’ property sales, and gains on asset dispositions reported in the first half of 2022. See page A-3 for the Adjusted EPS – diluted calculation for the first half of 2022.

[5] Assumes the level of capital return to shareholders noted above.

[6] Investment spending includes capital and technology expenditures, loan advances, contract acquisition costs, and other investing activities. The decline in expected investment spending compared to the company’s prior expectation reflects lower maintenance capital spending.

[7] Assumes the level of investment spending noted above and no asset sales that may occur during the remainder of the year.

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) will conduct its quarterly earnings review for the investment community and news media on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (ET). The conference call will be webcast simultaneously via Marriott’s investor relations website at http://www.marriott.com/investor, click on “Events & Presentations” and click on the quarterly conference call link. A replay will be available at that same website until August 2, 2023.

The telephone dial-in number for the conference call is US Toll Free: 800-891-3968, or Global: +1 785-424-1675. The conference ID is MAR2Q22. A telephone replay of the conference call will be available from 1:00 p.m. ET, Tuesday, August 2, 2022, until 8:00 p.m. ET, Tuesday, August 9, 2022. To access the replay, call US Toll Free: 800-753-8831 or Global: +1 402-220-0687.

[1] All occupancy, Average Daily Rate (ADR) and RevPAR statistics and estimates are systemwide constant dollar and include hotels that have been temporarily closed due to COVID-19. Unless otherwise stated, all changes refer to year-over-year changes for the comparable period. Occupancy, ADR and RevPAR comparisons between 2022 and 2021 reflect properties that are comparable in both years. Occupancy, ADR and RevPAR comparisons between 2022 and 2019 reflect properties that are defined as comparable as of June 30, 2022, even if they were not open and operating for the full year 2019 or they did not meet all the other criteria for comparable in 2019. Unless otherwise stated, all comparison to pre-pandemic or 2019 are comparing to the same time period each year.

Note on forward-looking statements
All statements in this press release and the accompanying schedules are made as of August 2, 2022. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. This press release and the accompanying schedules contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of federal securities laws, including statements related to the possible effects on our business of the COVID-19 pandemic (COVID-19); our RevPAR, rooms growth and other financial metric estimates, outlook and assumptions; travel and lodging demand trends and expectations; occupancy, ADR and RevPAR recovery trends and expectations; future performance of the company’s hotels; our development pipeline, signings, rooms growth, deletions and conversions; our investment spending and capital return expectations; 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 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.

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 8,100 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 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. Connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

Marriott encourages investors, the media, and others interested in the company to review and subscribe to the information Marriott posts on its investor relations website at www.marriott.com/investor or Marriott News Center, which may be material. The contents of these websites are not incorporated by reference into this press release or any report or document Marriott files with the SEC, and any references to the websites are intended to be inactive textual references only.

Media Contacts
Melissa Froehlich Flood
Corporate Relations
(301) 380-4839
newsroom@marriott.com

Jackie Burka McConagha
Investor Relations
(301) 380-5126
jackie.mcconagha@marriott.com

Betsy Dahm
Investor Relations
(301) 380-3372
betsy.dahm@marriott.com

IRPR#1

Download MAR Q2 2022 Press Release Schedules or visit www.marriott.com/investor.

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BACK ON THE BHUTAN TRAIL: G Adventures to lead first trek

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Following two years of extensive restoration and a delayed launch due to COVID 19, the Kingdom of Bhutan is set reopen its historic and sacred Trans Bhutan Trail in September, marking the first time in 60 years that the famed, and formerly important, route will be open to travellers.

The trail will be officially reopened in a formal ceremony in Bhutan on Sept. 28, and as its exclusive launch partner, G Adventures will be the first group adventure operator to conduct a tour on the Trail when its inaugural, sold-out, departure leaves on Oct. 2.

Yves Marceau, vice president of product at G Adventures, says the operator is excited to be heading back to Bhutan (and Australia and New Zealand at the same time), which are some of the last to reopen to foreign travellers – and to be bringing tourism dollars back into local communities, specifically in Bhutan.

“We’re honoured to be working with the Bhutan Canada Foundation and the Trans Bhutan Trail to launch this newly restored route in magical Bhutan, and we’re thrilled with how popular the new trips have been, even with the delay in reopening.

“It’s a country we’ve run tours in for more than a decade and have long admired for its commitment to the happiness of its people and sustainable way of life…”

Sam Blyth, chair of the Bhutan Canada Foundation, and lead donor for the Trans Bhutan Trail, says G Adventures was an obvious partner to help relaunch the trail given the company’s long history and success running small group tours and giving back to destinations through its commitment to community tourism.

Monastery in the Paro Valley

“As well as providing income opportunities for local people – especially youth – in rural communities, the restoration of the trail is a community-based project designed to preserve an ancient cultural icon and provide a sustainable experience for travellers. Economic benefit will flow directly into the local communities as a result of community tourism, whether via homestays, the purchase of supplies locally for multi-day trips or the employment of local guides,” he says.

Marceau says G will offer two new active trekking itineraries – the 11-day “Camp the Trans Bhutan Trail” and 12-day “Highlights of the Trans Bhutan Trail” – that cover highlights of the trail as hikers traverse forests and meadows and travel through rural settlements around the Dzongs. Travellers can expect an average of three to four hours of hiking each day and local meals each night, whether they are camping or staying in homestays, hotels, or local guest houses.

The two tours focus on trekking specially selected parts of the 403-km trail and connecting with local people to learn about Bhutanese life and culture, thus combining active travel and cultural immersion with the benefits of community tourism.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: July 25-29, 2022

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Last week, Transat AT secured additional federal funding; JetBlue reached a deal to buy Spirit Airlines; some WestJet workers signed a ‘historic’ contract; and Switzerland Tourism named its new director for Canada.

NEWS

Transat A.T. Inc. reached an agreement with Canada Enterprise Emergency Funding Corporation, a federal Crown corporation, to obtain $100 million in additional liquidity. The company also reached an agreement with its lenders to defer its April 2023 maturities to April 2024, as well as to defer from October 2022 to October 2023 – the date by which the Corporation must meet certain financial covenants. This liquidity is in addition to initial financing secured on April 29, 2021.

Newly unionized WestJet workers in Calgary and Vancouver ratified a “historic” first contract that gives members at least a 13% wage increase, their first increase in five years.

Travellers arriving at Toronto Pearson International Airport or Vancouver International Airport, and later this month at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, can save time by using the Advance CBSA Declaration optional feature in ArriveCAN to submit their customs and immigration declaration in advance of arrival. This feature will also be expanded to other international airports in the coming months.

Based on the philosophy that “seeing the world and saving the world are not mutually exclusive,” the US Travel Association announced the launch of its new Sustainable Travel Coalition, which aims to align the travel, transportation, and technology sectors in developing and advancing strategies to enable a more sustainable future for the travel industry south of the border.

BY THE NUMBERS

As of July 18-21, CATSA says collectively 81% of passengers were screened within 15 minutes at Canada’s airports, even as passenger volumes continued to increase. Individually, YYZ was 82%, YVR 81%, and YYC 81% – all improvements on the week before. Only Montreal declined during the same period, from 78% to 68%. CATSA says less than 2% across all airports waited more than 45 minutes to be security screened for the week of July 11-17.

ACTA

ACTA has launched a new Trip and Luggage Compensation on its website that travel agents can use to understand compensation and reimbursement rules for domestic and international air travel as well as to help guide their customers through what resources are available in the event of flight delays, cancellations, baggage delays, loss, and damage. Users can input the origin and destination of the impacted flight and the tool will display potential compensation and reimbursement rules applicable to that trip. However, ACTA notes the tool is not a substitution for legal advice, and users should seek counsel from a lawyer as needed.

AIR

JetBlue Airways has agreed to buy Spirit Airlines for $3.8 billion and create the fifth-largest airline if the US if the deal can win approval from antitrust regulators.The agreement capped a months-long bidding war and arrived one day after Spirit’s attempt to merge with fellow budget carrier Frontier Airlines fell apart.

Aeroplan has extended its pause on expiry of points until May 31, 2023 – meaning that between now and May 30, 2023, any Aeroplan points which would have expired will not. Effective May 31, 2023, the normal expiration policy will once again apply, meaning points will expire if an eligible transaction has not been completed within the 18 months prior to this date.

Canada Jetlines has announced its first flight out of Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM), scheduled for Aug. 15, as one of the carrier’s first routes.

DEALS

Quark Expeditions has its Summer 2022 Promotion – a 25% discount on select Arctic and Antarctic voyages, valid through Sept. 30.

TOURS

In a bid to introduce “the unique wonders of Istanbul to the world,” Turkish Airlines is once again providing its Touristanbul program, which offers international stopover passengers the opportunity to discover Istanbul with a complimentary city tour. Through the program – available to guests with a connecting time of between six and 24 hours in Istanbul Airport – passengers will have the opportunity to discover such sites as Sultanahmet Mosque, Ayasofya Mosque, and Topkapı Palace, between their connecting flights. Passengers are picked up from Istanbul Airport by a Touristanbul vehicle, embark on a tour of Istanbul accompanied by a guide, and are transferred back to the airport for the next leg of their flight.

From Oct. 14, and continuing for a month, the Jordan Trail’s new “Thru-Hikes” will allow intrepid travellers to discover the middle eastern country on guided hiking experiences that include licensed guides, transportation, meals, accommodations and more. Travellers can enjoy any section of the hike for as little or as much as they want to – and meet Jordanians as they meander through up to 72 villages. The Jordan Trail Association is a not-for-profit organization and hikers’ contributions help fund the development of the Trail and its communities. Check out Jordantrail.org for details.

HOTELS
The Adlon Experience Anniversary Package, offered all year, celebrates the famed Berlin hotel’s 25th anniversary (actual date Aug. 23). It includes an overnight stay in a luxurious double room or suite at the Kempinski property, where a bottle of Ruinart Anniversary Champagne; a chocolate model of the Brandenburg; and a surprize gift greet guests on arrival. In the evening, a seasonal three-course menu accompanied by Robert Weil´s anniversary wine is served in the Quarré restaurant. The following morning, the acclaimed gourmet breakfast buffet is served in the gallery of the Bel Etage, and in the adjoining salons. The package starts at 630 euros p.p.

RESORTS

In a move aimed at improving the guest experience throughout the entire customer journey, Blue Diamond Resorts has unveiled a series of detailed videos that showcase the resorts through top-notch first-person view camera technology allowing the traveller to explore and assist them in making booking decisions. A series of over 40 videos – one per week over the coming months – will be published on Blue Diamond Resorts’ official channels under the name Above & Beyond.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with more than 8,900 hotels in over 95 countries, and Palladium Hotel Group, one of the largest Spanish hotel companies, have announced commercial alliance that will add more than 6,500 rooms to the Wyndham’s Registry Collection. As part of the agreement, Palladium Hotel Group’s two all-inclusive luxury brands – Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts (family all-inclusives) and TRS Hotels (adult-only all-inclusives) – will join the Registry Collection brand.

CRUISE

Starting Aug. 4, Carnival Cruise Line fully vaccinated passengers booked on cruise itineraries of five nights or less will not be subject to pre-cruise testing for COVID-19. Those cruising for six nights or longer can test three days before departure. And there will be no in-terminal testing for unvaccinated guests on day of departure, but all unvaccinated guests ages two and older must provide proof of a negative result of a lab-administered or supervised self-administered antigen COVID test taken within three days before embarkation.

Bookings are open for Disney Cruise Line 2023 fall excursions featuring Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime cruises, and the fleet’s first-ever departures from Fort Lauderdale. Cruises aboard DCL’s vessels Dream, Magic, Wish and Fantasy, will depart from Florida, California, and New York to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Bermuda, plus a special stop in Canada.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

For the first time, The Weeknd (that’s not a typo) is joining forces with Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights to inspire all-new, haunted houses for Halloween Horror Nights based on Canadian artist’s record-breaking “After Hours” album. Beginning Sept. 2 at Universal Orlando Resort and on Sept. 8 at Universal Studios Hollywood, guests will spiral into the “twisted mind of the mysterious artist” to experience “The Weeknd: After Hours Nightmare.”

PEOPLE

Switzerland Tourism (ST) will welcome a new director for Canada, effective Nov. 1. Oliver Weibel takes the reigns from current Canadian director Pascal Prinz, who will assume a new role as Director, Global Accounts at ST based out of Zurich. No stranger to tourism marketing, Weibel has worked at the national tourism board’s headquarters since 2017 as marketing manager, accommodations & hospitality.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

lemur

Nov. 5-17, 2022: NĀRAT is inviting travel counsellors on an exclusive 12-day eco-education FAM to Madagascar, highlighting the destination’s incredible wildlife diversity, including famed lemurs (photo) and ecological treasures. Participants will also visit capital Antananarivo and other heritage towns and experience unique wildlife encounters and cultural activities. Cost is US$2,750 p.p. plus flight taxes (US$650) and includes airfare from Toronto and in Africa, accommodation (in deluxe hotels and game lodges), guided safari drives and wildlife walks, meals, entrances fees to conservation areas, and presentation on selling Madagascar. Agents can also add on a seven-day extension to South Africa. FAM spots are limited, and one companion may be allowed subject to availability. Connecting flights are available on request. To apply, e-mail fams@narat.org

EVENTS

Tahiti Tourisme North America will be hosting the Hybrid Tahiti Specialist Conference Sept. 13-15, in Los Angeles and virtually on its online platform. The inaugural Tahiti Specialist Conference (TSC) was held in person in September 2019. This year’s new hybrid format provides options for both in-person or virtual attendance. Anticipated topics include post-pandemic marketing and selling, targeting to Millennial and Gen Z clients, small business SEO, and more. Info and registration through the specialist program.

DESTINATIONS

Meandering mostly through green parks, meadows, and pastures with more than 100 castles and palaces along the way, Germany’s 100 Castles and Palaces bike route is arguably the country’s most impressive. Four interconnecting loops, which are predominantly flat and each cover between 210 and 310 kilometres, wind their way through the Münsterland region.

A highly anticipated new park destination, Presidio Tunnel Tops, opened in July 17 in San Francisco. The culmination of a 20-year transformation of the Presidio’s waterfront adds 5.7 hectares to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It is built on top of highway tunnels connecting San Francisco and offers scenic overlooks with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the bay and city; paths and gardens; a welcome plaza with food and visitor services; a campfire circle and picnic grounds; and the “Outpost” nature playscape and Field Station.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1943, Trans-Canada Air Lines, the forerunner of Air Canada, inaugurated transatlantic service.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News