Global Travel News

Fifty Thousand Tourism Jobs in Portugal Remain Unfilled

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Fifty Thousand Tourism Jobs in Portugal Remain Unfilled - TRAVELINDEXLisbon, Portugal, August 29, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / A new analysis of staff shortages by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed a labour shortfall in Portugal, with nearly 50,000 Travel & Tourism jobs across the country predicted to be unfilled. The research looked into labour shortages across Portugal and other major Travel & Tourism destinations, such as the U.S., France, Spain, the UK, and Italy.

The data shows Portugal is forecasted to see a shortfall of 49,000 workers in the third quarter of 2022, with one in 10 vacancies expected to remain unfilled this year, making it the least affected country of those analysed.

Before the pandemic, in 2019, more than 485,000 people were employed in Travel & Tourism in Portugal. But 2020 saw the loss of over 80,000 jobs.*

Portugal saw the beginning of the recovery in 2021, with a 32.6% growth to the sector’s contribution to the national economy. However, staff shortages have been prevalent in the country, with thousands of vacancies that remain unfilled, putting the sector under pressure.

WTTC analysis shows Portugal’s hotel industry is expected to be the worst affected, as both hotels and food and beverage segments are forecasted to have 13% (one in eight) and 12% (one in eight) of job openings unfilled, respectively.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said: “The Portuguese government has always put Travel & Tourism at the forefront of their agenda, and is already addressing this issue with strategic measures.

“The Ministry for Tourism in Portugal is very proactive and has introduced a flexible visa policy to attract talent. They are doing a great job.

“The future of Travel & Tourism in Portugal looks bright, and in order to ensure a full recovery of the economy and the sector, we need to fill these vacancies to guarantee Portugal can meet the long-awaited travellers’ demand.”

Last week WTTC revealed that up to 1.2 million Travel & Tourism jobs across the EU will remain unfulfilled, with hospitality, aviation, and travel agencies being the most affected.

Some of the key measures identified in the report for both governments and the private sector to address the talent gap are:
1. Facilitate labour mobility across international borders, with more favourable visa policies
2. Enable flexible and remote working where feasible – allowing part time or contractor-based opportunities, where possible
3. Ensure decent work and competitive employee benefits and compensation packages
4. Attract talent by improving the perception of jobs and promoting viable career paths with growth opportunities
5. Develop and support a skilled workforce through comprehensive educational programs, as well as upskilling and reskilling current talent
6. Adopt innovative technological and digital solutions to alleviate pressure on staff, improve daily operations and an enhanced customer experience.

The global tourism body believes by implementing these measures, Travel & Tourism businesses will be able to attract more workers.

This in turn would enable the sector to meet the ever-growing consumer demand and further speed up its recovery, which is the backbone to generating economic well-being across the country.

* Refers to total DIRECT employment

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park Launches The Curiosity Room by TED

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Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen's Park Launches The Curiosity Room by TED - TRAVELINDEX - HOTELTALKSBangkok, Thailand, August 29, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Industry Leaders Advance Longstanding Collaboration with Interactive Rooms, Available at Three Marriott Hotels Properties Around the World including Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park. Marriott Hotels furthers its partnership with idea engine TED through its award-winning educational arm TED-Ed, to debut their one-of-a kind immersive experience outside of a TED conference. Aimed at sparking curiosity and enriching the experience of global travelers, The Curiosity Room by TED features interactive, mind-bending activities integrated into the Marriott Hotels guest room design. Following the launch in San Francisco, California, the experiential interactive room experience will begin welcoming its first stays in Bangkok and soon, in London, with reservations for all three locations available now. From August 15 – November 15, 2022, guests can book this unique experience at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, the landmark five-star hotel in the heart of the Thai capital.

Recent social listening research conducted on behalf of Marriott saw a significant year-over-year uptick in searches for #themedrooms (+106%) and “hotel rooms” + themed (+65%), suggesting consumers are craving more distinct and inspiring hotel experiences.

Recommended for families and friends aged seven and up, the immersive adventure starts immediately upon entry to the room, which is a puzzle waiting to be solved. Intriguing elements are seamlessly woven into the décor and travelers will be able to uncover hidden messages, hunt for missing pieces, and experience elements of the room in unexpected and exciting ways. The room also features a “Curiosity Journal” which serves as a guide to the in-room riddles, with hints available in case guests need a helpful hand. When the final challenge has been completed, guests receive a certificate and can celebrate with a complimentary dessert at the hotel’s restaurant.

“At Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, we have always sought to be a place where guests can be inspired at every corner of their experience and we are pleased to be one of the three Marriott Hotels properties in the world to launch The Curiosity Room by TED,” said Simon Bell, General Manager, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park. “The Curiosity Room by TED is a one-of-a-kind adventure, and it further fosters the notion for our guests to stay curious in their travels, opening their minds beyond a typical overnight stay and propel them to explore Bangkok as a destination with renewed desire to learn something new.”

Guests can now book their stay in The Curiosity Room by TED, starting at THB 15,960++, which includes a two-night stay for up to 4 guests, one dinner at Goji Kitchen + Bar, and a treat from the Siam Tea Room’s bakery. This offer is valid for stays taken from now to 15 November 2022, click here.

Marriott Hotels has a longstanding, global partnership with TED. The relationship began in 2016 by distributing TED Talks and TED Fellows Salons, blogs, and original quotes to hotel guests worldwide, and has continued to elevate every year with new elements of the partnership. Travelers staying at Marriott Hotels have access to custom content expertly curated by TED, with selected themes that are topical and relevant to guests including innovation, travel, entrepreneurship, and much more. Specifically, new TED-Ed content will now be available at hotels with video-based lessons that vary by subject and age.

To explore more, please visit TEDRooms.Marriott.com

For more information and reservations, please call +66 (0) 2059 5999

About Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park Hotel
The largest hotel in Bangkok and the first Marriott Marquis hotel in Asia Pacific, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park is a landmark in heart of the Thai capital. The hotel offers extensive facilities, including 1,388 rooms and suites, over 5,000m² of function space across more than 30 venues, two swimming pools, 24-hour fitness center, the Quan Spa and a collection of restaurants and bars. Centrally located on Sukhumvit Road, in Bangkok’s vibrant business and entertainment district, the hotel is the perfect choice for all travelers to this pulsating city.

About Marriott Hotels
With more than 600 hotels and resorts in over 65 countries and territories around the world, Marriott Hotels continues to elevate the art of hosting – placing people first is the brand’s living legacy – ensuring guests always feel deeply cared for throughout their stay. Marriott Hotels raises the bar by consistently delivering heartfelt service, with modern, comfortable spaces, and by providing experiences elevated beyond the everyday. As global travelers needs and expectations evolve, so does Marriott Hotels, leading the industry with innovations including the Greatroom lobby and Mobile Guest Services that elevate style and design, and technology.

About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and 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.

About TED
TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading, often in the form of short talks delivered by leading thinkers and doers. Many of these talks are given at TED conferences, intimate TED Salons and thousands of independently organized TEDx events around the world. Videos of these talks are made available, free, on TED.com and other platforms. Audio versions of TED Talks are published to TED Talks Daily, available on all podcast platforms.

TED’s open and free initiatives for spreading ideas include TED.com, where new TED Talk videos are posted daily; TEDx, which licenses thousands of individuals and groups to host local, self-organized TED-style events around the world; the TED Fellows program, which selects innovators from around the globe to amplify the impact of their remarkable projects and activities; The Audacious Project, which surfaces and funds critical ideas that have the potential to impact millions of lives; TED Translators, which crowdsources the subtitling of TED Talks so that big ideas can spread across languages and borders; and the educational initiative TED-Ed. TED also offers TED@Work, a program that reimagines TED Talks for workplace learning. TED also has a growing library of original podcasts, including The TED Interview with Chris Anderson, WorkLife with Adam Grant, Am I Normal? with Mona Chalabi and How to Be a Better Human.

About TED-Ed
TED-Ed is TED’s youth and education initiative. TED-Ed’s mission is to spark and celebrate the ideas of teachers and students around the world. Everything we do supports learning — from producing a growing library of original animated videos, to providing an international platform for teachers to create their own interactive lessons, to helping curious students around the globe bring TED to their schools and gain presentation literacy skills, to celebrating innovative leadership within TED-Ed’s global network of over 850,000 teachers. TED-Ed has grown from an idea worth spreading into an award-winning education platform that serves millions of teachers and students around the world every day.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Centara Co-Sponsors Olympic Sailor Ahead of World Championships

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Centara Co-Sponsors Olympic Sailor Ahead of World Championships - VISITTHAILAND.net - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, August 29, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Sophia Montgomery will represent Thailand at the Under 21 World Championships in Portugal this month. Centara Hotels and Resorts will co-sponsor Thai sailor Sophia Montgomery who is preparing to represent Thailand at the 2022 ILCA Under 21 World Championships in Portugal later this month.

The sponsorship is part of Centara’s commitment to supporting women in sport and young Thai athletes as they aspire to achieve sporting success on the world stage. Sophia, who will compete in the individual Laser Radial (ILCA 6) category, will join approximately 240 athletes from 41 countries participating in the world championships, to be held in the southern Portuguese resort town of Vilamoura from 21-28 August.

“At Centara, we aim to inspire people to follow their dreams and Sophia is the epitome of that aspiration with her incredible talent and optimistic outlook on life,” said Centara CEO Thirayuth Chirathivat. “Sophia is an inspiration to all of us – she is already on the path towards qualifying for the Olympic Games in Paris in 2024, and in addition to her sporting achievements, she recently began studying and sailing at prestigious Harvard University.”

Sophia comes from a strong sporting background and also holds a black belt in taekwondo. But it was sailing that became her top sporting passion.

“I love sailing because it’s so complex, with demanding physical, mental and environmental factors,” Sophia Montgomery said. “With so many variables, every race is unpredictable and requires one to think on their feet at all times: anticipating, analysing and adjusting. I’m so grateful to Centara for their sponsorship, which allows me to not only continue pursuing my passion but also my goal of representing Thailand at the 2024 Olympics.”

Born and raised in Thailand, Sophia attended Sarasas Ektra School and NIST International School, which she graduated from in May 2021.

Centara’s support for Sophia follows the company’s sponsorship of Thailand’s Chonburi Football Club for the 2020-2021 season.

About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 91 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Cambodia, Turkey, Indonesia and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. It also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Over the next five years Centara aims to become a top 100 global hotel group, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

A HELPING HAND: Agents build school in Jamaica

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A group of Canadian travel agents recently joined forces with the Canadian-based Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation (HHJF) to help build a preschool and kindergarten in Linstead, St. Catherine, Jamaica.

A philanthropic team of donors and supporters, including Kisko Products employees, travel advisors, and other supporters assisted in the construction of Bourne Gordon’s Pre-school and Kindergarten. The five-classroom build was completed with an office area, sick bay and staff and student bathrooms.

The school structure also boasts a kitchen stocked with appliances and amenities such as a water harvesting system, fence, and playground. Funding for this project was largely provided by Kisko Products, the Josephs family, as well as the Estate of Rupert Cupidore.

The new school will provide a more conducive educational environment for approximately 75 to 100 children between the ages of three and five years old, where they will learn and develop in a safe and welcoming space. In addition, it will alleviate the challenges of inadequate classroom space, overcrowding, and improper sanitation and provide increased security for students and staff.

“We were thrilled to host this particular group of travel agents as they’ve continually demonstrated their love of Jamaica here in Canada by supporting our philanthropic efforts on the island,” said Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Jamaica Tourist Board Canada.

“Every agent who joined this trip passionately used their voice and platforms to raise funds in support of the Helping Hands Foundation, and it was important to us that they be involved in this very special 25th school build in Jamaica,” she added.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: Aug. 22-26, 2022

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Controversy and complaints over Canada’s border/arrivals situation continue last week, and cruise companies continue to update their COVID protocols. Also in the news: Japan continues to open up, Air Canada Vacations released a digital brochure, a US airline filed for bankruptcy, and the Sydney zoo welcomed a cute, new resident…

NEWS

A member of Parliament says Ottawa may have underestimated Canadians’ desire to travel when planning for a return to normal following the end of most pandemic restrictions. As a result, travellers have experienced widespread flight cancellations, baggage delays and lengthy lineups, particularly at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport.

A constitutional rights group has launched a legal challenge of a federal requirement that travellers to Canada use the ArriveCan app. The action was filed in Federal Court by the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms on behalf of 11 Canadians, including some allegedly fined up to $8,500.

The federal and Nova Scotia governments have committed to establishing the province’s first national urban park at Blue Mountain-Birch Cove Lakes in Halifax, an area of forest, wetlands, headwaters, and a system of lakes.

BORDERS

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced plans to ease border controls from early September by eliminating requirements for pre-departure COVID-19 tests for travellers who have received at least three vaccine doses, and he will also consider increasing daily entry caps as soon as next month. Japan, which has imposed some of the toughest border measures for the coronavirus, currently requires negative PCR test results within 72 hours of departure for all entrants, a practice that has been criticized as cumbersome.

BY THE NUMBERS

Early Transport Canada usage data indicates that travellers using the optional Advance CBSA Declaration in ArriveCan cuts the amount of time a traveller spends at a kiosk by roughly one third. In the week ending Aug. 14, the advance CBSA declaration was submitted by 34% of arriving passengers in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. In the coming weeks, this feature will become available to travellers arriving at the Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Billy Bishop Toronto City, Ottawa, Québec City and Halifax international airports.

AIR

Citing low demand, Canadian North will prematurely end its direct flights between Toronto and Iqaluit after the Labour Day weekend. The last direct flight will take place Sept. 4. The airline had announced in February it would offer direct flights between Nunavut’s capital and Toronto Pearson International Airport from June 3 to Sept. 30, on Fridays and Sundays.

Nevada-based discount airline aha! has stopped flying after its parent, ExpressJet Airlines, filed for bankruptcy protection and said it would sell its assets. ExpressJet said it faced lower-than-expected revenue because demand for travel weakened with new COVID-19 variants. It also said it was burdened with high costs, particularly for jet fuel.

WestJet has extended its partnership with MedAire, an International SOS company that provides emergency medical assistance to cabin personnel during in-flight medical events. As the first airline in North America to fully leverage the MedAire In-Flight App, WestJet cabin personnel now have multiple ways to connect with MedLink doctors during a medical emergency.

GOOD DEEDS
This year’s 401 Bike Challenge (photo), co-sponsored by Air Canada Vacations and McDonald’s, included nine ACV employees (Nino Montagnese, Lucy Sabella, Andreas Anastassopoulos, Kevin Boada, Gustavo Maass, Tony Rolli and Marie-Christine Boyer) taking part in the three-day 580-km ride from Toronto to Montreal. Through ACV’s sponsorship and individual rider fundraising, $54 776 was donated to the oncology/hematology units of the Montreal Children’s Hospital, the Toronto SickKids Hospital, and the Ottawa Children’s Hospital, bringing the grand total raised by all participants for this year’s edition to $273,383 with donations continuing to pour in.

TOURS

Air Canada Vacations has introduced a new digital-only Sun Collection brochure for 2022-23. The interactive “Dream of Sun” brochure features over 600 mostly all-inclusive hotels to choose from across 38 destinations, including 67 new additions, three resorts exclusive to Air Canada Vacations and 29 semi-exclusive resorts, and hundreds of cruises. Agents and clients will find images, video and editorial content including destination highlights with the capability to search by hotel name, category, or popular filters like hotels where kids stay free. ACV notes that is also once again highlighting LGBTQ+ friendly hotels as well as spotlighting eco-friendly resorts. Go to agents.dreamofsun.aircanadavacations.com.

From Oct. 28 to Nov. 5, MyEscapades (Huntington) is conducting a small group golf tour in Algarve, Portugal, hosted by Canadian golf teaching pro Vince Dawyer. With a maximum of 24 participants, the trip includes five rounds of golf at four different courses, with carts, guaranteed tee times, and a one-hour clinic before each game. Cost is $2,545 and includes eight nights accommodation at the four-star Villa Gale Ampalius Hotel, breakfast, four dinners, and more. Airfare is not included.

HOTELS

Boutique hotel brand Hotel Indigo, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Luxury and Lifestyle portfolio, has opened its first property in Austria, Hotel Indigo Vienna – Naschmarkt. Centrally located, the 158-room hotel is a short walk from the city’s historic centre, the ‘Margareten’ district, a culturally diverse neighbourhood, including everything from 19th century architecture to relaxed eateries and secret gardens offering sanctuaries to both travellers and locals alike.

RESORTS

One of St. Lucia’s leading all-inclusive boutique resorts, Rendezvous, relaunched as StolenTime by Rendezvous this month.

AMResorts and Playa Hotels & Resorts report the expiration of the contract for Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa effective Dec. 20, at which point the resort will no longer be represented under the AMR Collection brand portfolio. Beginning Dec. 21, guests with existing reservations at Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa will have their stays protected at another AMR Collection branded property in the destination. Also, effective Jan. 6, 2023, Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana will no longer be represented under the AMR Collection brand portfolio; guests with existing reservations will have their stays protected at another AMR Collection branded property in the destination.

DEALS

Paul Gauguin Cruises is making an early 2023 spring escape to Tahiti more tempting than ever with a $500 air credit per guest on seven-night ‘Tahiti & the Society Islands’ voyages exploring French Polynesia. The limited-time offer is available on select dates for bookings made by Oct. 8 and is valid when airfare is purchased together with a cruise.
CRUISE

From Sept. 6, Carnival Cruise Line says it will accept self-testing for unvaccinated guests (in addition to lab administered tests) on cruises that are 15 nights or shorter. The updated protocol does not apply where destinations (including Canada) do not accept self-administered tests. Regardless of the type of test taken, unvaccinated guests will be required to present their negative test results via VeriFLY or as part of the embarkation process. Additionally, travel insurance is no longer a requirement for unvaccinated guests unless it is required by a destination, such as Bermuda. Irrespective of vaccination status, travel insurance is required for all guests visiting Fiji. Full details can be found on the cruise line’s web site.

COVID vaccinations will no longer be required for guests travelling with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises in 2023. However, guests will be required to follow the entry requirements specified by each country visited along their itinerary – by river, land, or rail – says the cruise line. Entry guidelines for travel to each destination can be found on the company’s web site, but guests are responsible for ensuring their own compliance.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

Through Nov. 19, guests can sip, savour, and repeat across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. The festival offers new experiences for foodies and families alike as part of the “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” honouring the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary. More than 25 festival food and wine marketplaces located throughout EPCOT celebrate the best in global food and drink.

EVENTS

On Sept. 8, Air Canada Vacations will provide a webinar session in French and English to demonstrate the features of its new Dream of Sun digital brochure and answer any questions. Click for times and details.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Two prominent Canadian travel industry figures are on the move with the appointments of Justin Gosling as Director Canada at Discover the World, replacing Jane Clementino, who left the position to join TRAVELSAVERS as Sr. VP. and GM Canada.

REPRESENTATION

VoX International has added of Broadway Inbound & the Broadway Collection to its client roster, assisting the company by working with travel agents, OTA’s, tour operators, media, and other partners across Canada. Through the partnership, Canadian agents will be given access to the tools and knowledge to encourage travellers to purchase Broadway tickets ahead of their trip, allowing them to make the most of their time in New York City. Denise Graham will manage the Broadway Inbound account, developing marketing plans and spearheading various other projects for the company.

DESTINATIONS

Wadu the wombat

Taronga Zoo Sydney announced the birth of a male Southern hairy-nosed wombat joey, a latest success of Taronga’s wombat breeding program which has seen 10 joeys born since 2012. The little joey (photo) was born to experienced mum Jedda in December last year but has only just started to emerge from her mother’s pouch in recent weeks. The joey has recently been identified as a little male and has been given the name ‘Wadu’ by his keepers which means ‘wombat’ in the Wirangu language of South Australia.

The second most visited zoo in the US is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year with transformative exhibits, new public amenities and enhanced public spaces. Projects at the Houston Zoo are being completed in a six‐year, multi‐phase plan with the largest initiative in the campaign, the Galápagos Islands, opening this fall. The first major exhibit of its kind will immerse guests in an environment evoking the archipelago’s unique landscapes and oceanic habitats. Set on 22-hectar oasis in the heart of the city, the Houston Zoo is home to wildlife from all corners of the globe.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1919, the first international air service began with Air Transport and Travel’s flight from London to Paris. Only one passenger made the trip on a converted biplane bomber. The trip took two-and-a-half hours and cost 21 pounds.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PUBS, PATIOS & BARS: How to plan a ‘beercation’ in the Golden State

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California is acclaimed for its longstanding thriving craft beer industry, and, as such, sometimes the most challenging part of drinking craft beer in the Golden State (a perfect moniker to be sure) is figuring out where to go – and how to choose which spots to visit within each destination.

Here’s a closer look at how these regions across the state are making visitors and locals alike feel exceptionally “hoppy.”

San Francisco and Oakland

Located in a historic building at Ocean Beach, Chalet Brewery is a San Francisco City Historic Landmark constructed way back in 1925. It’s the only brewery in San Francisco that features views of Golden Gate Park and the Pacific Ocean, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Across the Bay, the Oakland Ale Trail developed by Visit Oakland in collaboration with a variety of partners from Oakland’s craft beer industry celebrates the strength of Oakland’s craft beer community. The trail features 13 breweries, 13 craft beer destinations and two cider stops.

Gold Country

In Nevada County, Grass Valley Brewing Co. and Three Forks Bakery & Brewery created the Independence Trail Ale to raise funds for this local trail’s restoration after it was damaged in a fire. For every pint or can purchased, $1 is donated to Bear Yuba Land Trust to support its rebuild. And nearby, Sacramento has seen an explosion of craft brewers in recent years, anchored by prominent names like Track 7, Ruhstaller, Urban Roots and Device Brewing Co. And hard cider fans have a new hot spot in Nitty’s Cider recently opened tasting room.

Visalia and Tulare County

Visalia’s craft brew scene quickly becomes a must-stop destination for beer lovers, pub crawl aficionados and microbrewery experience seekers. As the area is a natural farming region, brewers have access to the freshest hops in the state and a vibrant downtown full of beer entrepreneurs and connoisseurs. BarrelHouse Brewing, Brewbakers Brewing Company (located at the site of Visalia’s first beer garden), Visalia Brewing Company (VCB), Sequoia Brewing Company, The Cellar Door, Pita Kabob Gastropub and Kaweah Brewing Company offer travelers more than 100 different tap options.

Orange County

Laguna Beach Beer Company’s mission is to brew a broad range of beers from their core styles to their Artisan Series and never compromise quality or creativity. In Huntington Beach, The Surf City USA Barrel Trail is the ultimate opportunity to explore the city through a carefully curated selection of 12 craft breweries — including Beachwood Brewing, Flashpoint Brewing Company, Four Sons Brewing and more. Inland, in Anaheim, discover more than 20 craft breweries, including Modern Times Leisuretown, which is the first brewery of its kind to offer a swimming pool for guests to lounge.

Laguna Beach Beer Co

San Luis Obispo County

With more than 10 local beer and cider breweries within its city limits, San Luis Obispo has no shortage of craft beer. Bang the Drum is a family-run brewery and the perfect spot to escape a hot day or spend the evening with friends. Oak & Otter Brewing is a welcoming space that often features live music. There’s also the “Be Hoppy Hop On Tour,” which takes care of all the hassle of organizing an experience. This beer-themed bus tour will make reservations at three award-winning local breweries for 20 people and deliver tour-goers to each spot in style.

Mendocino County

Mendocino offers seven breweries spaced throughout the County. Ukiah Brewing Company in Ukiah was the first certified organic brewpub in the nation. There’s also Anderson Valley Brewing Company, which is located in the heart of Mendocino County’s wine country but boasts a bevy of beers carrying the name of the lost language of the area–Boontling. And in Fort Bragg, the award-winning North Coast Brewing Company has long been considered a pioneer in the craft beer movement since its opening in 1988.

Benicia and Solano County

In July 2021 Mare Island Brewing Co. opened its third location, First Street Tap House, in downtown Benicia. Visitors can enjoy a selection of 20 craft beers in a historic building that was originally built in 1890. Nearby, Bruehol Benicia Brewing serves German-style pilsners, lagers, West Coast-style ales, and a variety of IPAs. Be sure to check out the name of each German beer, which represents something historic about the city of Benicia (one of the oldest cities in California).

San Diego County

It’s no secret that San Diego is a craft beer lovers’ paradise. With four locations in just San Diego county, Ballast Point Brewing Company is one of California’s best-known craft breweries. Considered a “nano-brewery” due to its small size when it first opened in 2010 in Miramar, Mike Hess Brewing Co. offers the public a unique tour perspective, allowing guests to access and view the brewhouse from raised catwalks above the tanks. And since opening its first location in Kearny Mesa 10 years ago, Societe has grown its legion of loyal fans, one beer at a time, led by their rally cry, “Beer Folk Unite.”

Los Angeles County

Benny Boy Brewing is located just minutes from Downtown Los Angeles in the Lincoln Heights neighborhood as the first combined brewery and cidery in Los Angeles. Here, visitors can explore a spacious outdoor beer and cider garden serving Old World European-inspired beers straight from the tanks in the taproom tank bar and clean dry ciders made with 100% raw apple juice in the cider house. Closer to the coast, Santa Monica Brew Works is the first and only craft brewery located in Santa Monica. Their California-inspired beers are brewed for those who live the “Beach Brewed” lifestyle.

Benny Boy Brewing

Napa and Sonoma Counties

Most people think of wine when they hear Napa, but there’s a great craft beer scene too. With half a dozen different breweries to check out, like Fieldwork and the Napa Barrel Project, visitors may find themselves coming back to Downtown Napa for the beer and not the wine. And nearby, Sonoma County offers more than 30 different craft breweries. Local spots include Russian River Brewing Co. – known for its internationally renowned Pliny the Younger, as well as Third Street Aleworks and Belly Left Coast Kitchen & Tap Room.

Del Norte County

Del Norte County’s secret to brewing award-winning craft beers in a region with less than 30,000 people is most likely a combination of the water and the local brewers’ talent. Both SeaQuake Brewing and Port O’Pints Brewing Co. batch their beer with water from one of the cleanest rivers in the world, the Smith River, which has garnered them each plenty of ribbons and medals for their beer. Port O’Pints, a small batch brewery making only 700 barrels of beer annually, has received over 67 awards to date.

Monterey County

Portola Hotel & Spa is home to Monterey’s original craft brewery, Peter B’s Brewpub, where newly appointed Head Brewer Natalie Mika and her team can be found brewing award-winning craft beer. Nearby, downtown Salinas is experiencing a surge of new local craft breweries, with five taprooms all within a 600-foot walking distance. There’s La Cantina, one of the newest additions to Salinas’ brewery scene – and established favourites like XL Public House and Farmers Union Pour House, whose rotating list of beer and wine keep visitors coming back.

Ventura County

Ventura is a seaside city offering a small-town craft beer experience courtesy of humble, creative, and award-winning local brewers. There are more than a dozen craft breweries in Ventura. Sample a prize-winning ale and enjoy a Pacific Ocean view at MadeWest Brewery on the Ventura Pier or head downtown to Ventura Coast Brewing Company before relaxing at a picnic table outdoors at legendary Topa Topa Brewing Company.

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:

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First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: Hungry for Duran Duran

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If you live in the GTA and you’re of a certain vintage, it’s quite possible that your Facebook exploded this week with photos of soggy friends getting poured on at Monday’s Duran Duran concert in Toronto (at the outdoor Budweiser Stage).

But I know that for fans – being married to one – weather proves little deterrent to turning out to see the British band, which dominated the charts in the ‘80s with hits like “Girls on Film,” “Rio” and “The Reflex.”

Their biggest hit undoubtedly was “Hungry Like the Wolf,” which won a Grammy for best video in 1984.

(Fun fact: The band was named after the mad scientist Dr. Durand Durand in the 1968 Jane Fonda film “Barbarella.”)

Today, the core four players – Simon, Nick, Roger, and John (the one my wife was in love with at the time)¬ – are still at it (minus Andy Taylor), having recorded a new album, “Future Past,” this year and now touring to support it.

But if you missed the Ontario Place event, and don’t have the new album, consider this a timely – and dry – alternative.

Lyrics

Dark in the city, night is a wire
Steam in the subway, earth is afire
Do do do do do do do dodo dododo dodo

Woman, you want me, give me a sign
And catch my breathing even closer behind
Do do do do do do do dodo dododo dodo

In touch with the ground
I’m on the hunt, I’m after you
Smell like I sound, I’m lost in a crowd
And I’m hungry like the wolf

Straddle the line in discord and rhyme
I’m on the hunt, I’m after you
Mouth is alive with juices like wine
And I’m hungry like the wolf

Stalked through the forest, too close to hide
I’ll be upon you by the moonlight side
Do do do do do do do dodo dododo dodo

High blood drumming on your skin, it’s so tight
You feel my heat, I’m just a moment behind
Do do do do do do do dodo dododo dodo

In touch with the ground
I’m on the hunt, I’m after you
Scent and a sound, I’m lost and I’m found
And I’m hungry like the wolf

Strut on a line, it’s discord and rhyme
I howl and I whine, I’m after you
Mouth is alive, all running inside
And I’m hungry like the wolf

Hungry like the wolf

Burning the ground, I break from the crowd
I’m on the hunt down, I’m after you
I smell like I sound, I’m lost and I’m found
And I’m hungry like the wolf

Strut on a line, it’s discord and rhyme
I’m on the hunt, I’m after you
Mouth is alive with juices like wine
And I’m hungry like the wolf

Burning the ground, I break from the crowd
I’m on the hunt, I’m after you
Scent and a sound, I’m lost and I’m found
And I’m hungry like the wolf

Strut on a line, it’s discord and rhyme
I howl and I whine, I’m after you
Mouth is alive, all running inside

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Best Things to See and Do in Zambia

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The Best Things to See and Do in Zambia - TRAVELINDEX - TOURISMAFRICA.orgLivingstone, Zambia, August 26, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / While visiting popular landmarks and destinations provides a sense of belonging, it’s often those off the beaten paths that provide authentic and memorable experiences of discovery. Such a journey awaits in Zambia, a country of diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes and incredible natural wonders. From waking up to the sight of zebras to raising a glass at sunset to a picturesque waterfall backdrop, here are the best things to do and see in Zambia.

Witness the Grandeur of The Fall

Described by the Kololo tribe as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ or the smoke that thunders, Victoria Falls is Zambia’s most popular attraction and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This majestic waterfall forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe where columns of spray can be seen from miles away. Experience the finest views of the fall across the Knife-edge Bridge, a vantage point that overlooks the Eastern Cataract, the Main Falls, and the Boiling Pot where the river turns and heads down the Batoka Gorge.

Take It Slow and Just Breathe

Zambia’s five massive lakes and plentiful rivers boast the largest water resources in Africa. Put your mind on mute and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the mighty Zambezi River which offers excellent tiger fishing and fly fishing.

Feel the Adrenaline Rush

For those who prefer a rush of excitement, Livingstone has emerged as an extreme sports capital with some of the best things to do in Zambia, rivaling Swakopmund in Namibia and Jinja in Uganda. Experience white water rafting in one of the top destinations in the world with deep channels and high-water volumes. The rapids at Batoka Gorge are the perfect setting for jet boarding and bungee jumping.

Soar Above the Beauty Below

Being completely open air means microlights provide unparalleled experience of flying naturally. With space for one passenger and a pilot, you’re guaranteed an exhilarating and unique experience complimented by breathtaking views of Victoria Falls and the fascinating gorge that the Zambezi River has carved into the surrounding landscape.

Ground Yourself in Tranquil Nature

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced horse rider, a horseback ride takes you along the trails within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Journey through the scenic African Bushveld with excellent bird watching and the possibility of spotting wildlife.

Let Zambia Envelop You

One of the most unique experiences in Zambia is basking in graceful safari-style only steps away from Victoria Falls and waking up to the sight of zebras roaming freely. Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara sets the stage for such coveted experiences. Located in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, the hotel provides free, unlimited access to Victoria Falls for all resort guests. Even better, guests of the hotel can relish the ultimate private dining experience in irresistible flavours against the backdrop of Victoria Falls. Savour every moment, from sunset cocktails to starry African skies.

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara
Bask in graceful safari style only steps from one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Sweeping Zambezi River and savannah views stretch from every veranda as you relax in elegance. Wake up to the sight of zebras wandering the Livingstone hotel grounds. Raise a glass at sunset to the marvellous waterfall thundering to its depths as you recline in style. Surrender to relaxation with spa therapies under the shade of monkey trees on the banks of the river. The Royal Livingstone is located on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, with free unlimited access to Victoria Falls for all resort guests.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Wilderness Safaris Pledges Commitment to Lion Recovery Fund

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Wilderness Safaris Pledges Commitment to Lion Recovery Fund - TOURISMAFRICA.org - TRAVELINDEXJohannesburg, South Africa, August 26, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / To celebrate World Lion Day 2022, and in partnership with the Lion Recovery Fund, Wilderness Safaris has pledged its ongoing support of the Lionscape Coalition – an innovative group of leading commercial, conservation tourism companies, which have joined forces to help secure a future for Africa’s lions and their landscapes.

Africa’s lion population has halved in the past 25 years, and the species is now officially classified by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as Vulnerable, with the West African subspecies Critically Endangered. Habitat loss and fragmentation, illegal wildlife trade, bushmeat poaching and human-lion conflict continue to threaten lions across Africa. Yet lions are a resilient species and a turnaround is still possible if these key issues are addressed.

As apex predators, lions are regarded by scientists as an ‘umbrella’ species; if a lion population is thriving, it means the entire ecosystem around it is functioning effectively. ‘Conserving wild lions is therefore synonymous with conserving Africa’s savannah wilderness’, commented Dr Peter Lindsey, Director of the Lion Recovery Fund (LRF). ‘With a unique ability to inspire a passionate audience of travellers about the threats facing lions and how they can help, coupled with the strong economic incentives for conservation that the industry creates, Africa’s ecotourism industry can play a pivotal role in bringing the species back’.

‘As a founding partner of the Lionscape Coalition, we are proud to be working with our conservation tourism partners to make annual philanthropic investments into the LRF. In this way, we are not only supporting lion conservation projects in our regions, but looking past our own business imperatives and collaborating with each other to help support initiatives beyond the boundaries of our direct areas of operation – especially where lions are Critically Endangered’, noted Derek de la Harpe, Wilderness Chief Risk Management and Corporate Affairs Officer.

The LRF’s stated vision is to double wild lion numbers by 2050. By engaging guests before, during and after their safaris, about the threats and opportunities for lion conservation, Lionscape Coalition members aim to generate additional funding in support of the LRF’s goals, with 100% of all donations received channelled directly to projects on the ground.

The strategy of this dedicated initiative focuses on three critical aspects: expanding conservation coverage by increasing the extent and effectiveness of the management of ‘lionscapes’ across Africa; the building of public, political, and philanthropic will, creating a collective intent across the spheres of governments, non-profit organisations, philanthropists and the general public; and the upscaling of funding available for the conservation of lions and their landscapes.

Impactful safaris in Africa are intrinsically linked to the health of the continent’s iconic wildlife populations and their captivating landscapes. As an undisputed favourite for guests, losing lions will not only have dire ecological consequences, but will jeopardise the tourism industry itself, the jobs it creates and the many national economies to which it makes such an important contribution. The Lionscape Coalition shares the LRF’s bold vision to double the number of wild lions in Africa.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

HOLY HANNAH, WHAT A DAY!

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Somewhere Mike Hannah was smiling. After all, Tuesday was a picture-perfect day for the golf tournament named in his honour – the popular long-time Canadian travel executive having died in May. But beyond the usual fun and hijinks on the links at the Royal Ontario Golf Club in Milton, Ont., nearly a hundred Skal members from the association’s Toronto and Toronto North chapters turned out for the first “Mike Hannah Memorial Golf Tournament,” in memory of the former Skal member, himself an avid golfer.

Hannah’s family was on hand for the occasion, which was marked by an emotional Paul Foster (Tripcentral.ca), who recalled his best friend – “our Mike’s” – long tenure in the travel industry as photos scrolled across a screen in the room.

Top team: Robert Cole, Allianz; Jonathan Sargeant and Connor Duffy, Royal Irish, and Rocky Racco, TTI; with Liz Akey, EMA Marketing

Canada’s queen of Skal, Sue Webb, admitted that the Toronto chapter was just getting back on its feet filling the considerable hands-on void created by Hannah’s loss.

Webb eventually moved on to the day’s other business, recognizing the day’s golf luminaries (Ladies longest drive – Audrey Tanguay Beaudette, Air Canada; and, Men’s drive, Royal Irish Tours’ Connor Duffy); drawing copious raffles prizes; and congratulating members Kimberly Hartley and Scott Barker for recent nuptials (conducted on a beach in Jamaica, no less) – and the latter making a welcome appearance, though not golfing, only six weeks after double-bypass surgery.

“Today feels like it was a really special golf tournament,” Webb enthused of the re-gathering of the Skal “family.” Not only did it honour the inestimable Hannah, but, she observed, “It feels like the industry is back!”

Mike Baginski, Sue Webb; Cari Morotta, Vox/Trees4Travel; Raina Williams, Expedia; and Stephen Fine, Snowbird Advisors Insurance.

 

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News