Global Travel News

Oman Air Joins OneWorld Alliance to Strengthen Premier Airline Alliance

 500 291 wttc2
By:

Oman Air Joins OneWorld Alliance to Strengthen Premier Airline Alliance - AIRLINEHUB.com - TRAVELINDEXMuscat, Oman, June 22, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Based in Muscat, Oman Air was elected as a oneworld member designate in Doha by the oneworld Governing Board, comprising the Chief Executives of all oneworld member airlines. oneworld member Qatar Airways will act as sponsor for Oman Air’s entry into oneworld, providing guidance and support as the airline integrates into the alliance.

Oman Air is expected to be implemented into oneworld in 2024, following which it will provide the full range of oneworld benefits to customers travelling on its flights. Members of Oman Air’s Sindbad frequent flyer programme will be able to earn and redeem miles on all oneworld member airlines, with top tier members receiving additional benefits including lounge access when travelling with other oneworld members.

Oman Air’s entry into oneworld will provide even more flights and destinations to customers planning global travel across the alliance’s members, making oneworld the only global airline alliance with three members in the Middle East after Qatar Airways and Royal Jordanian. Oman Air’s joining will add new destinations to the oneworld network including Duqm and Khasab in Oman and Chittagong (Bangladesh). oneworld Emerald, oneworld Sapphire and premium cabin customers will also gain access to three Oman Air lounges at Muscat, Salalah and Bangkok.

Launched in 1993, Oman Air is the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman. From its roots as a domestic airline, it has transformed into an international carrier serving 41 destinations in more than 20 territories. It operates a modern fleet of more than 40 aircraft comprising Boeing 737s, 787s and Airbus A330s. Configured in a two or three-class cabin, Oman Air’s aircraft offer exclusive First Class Private Suites on longer-haul flights. Known for its exceptional in-flight hospitality, the airline has received several awards including most recently the APEX Passenger Choice Award for Best Seat Comfort in the Middle East.

Oman Air operates to five oneworld member airline hubs – Amman, Colombo, Doha, Kuala Lumpur and London Heathrow – and already codeshares with four oneworld member airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Qatar Airways, Royal Jordanian and SriLankan Airlines. Joining oneworld will pave the way for additional codeshare opportunities, further enhancing global connectivity across the alliance’s network.

Following its entry into oneworld, Oman Air will be the third new member of the alliance in five years, marking another achievement in oneworld’s rapid growth. Royal Air Maroc joined the alliance in April 2020, adding oneworld’s first full member in the African continent. This was followed by Alaska Airlines in March 2021, making oneworld the only global airline alliance with two members in the United States.

oneworld Governing Board Chairman and Qatar Airways Group Executive His Excellency Akbar Al Baker said: “Today marks a new milestone in oneworld, as our friends at Oman Air become a member elect of our award-winning alliance. Passengers of Oman Air will be offered a seamless travel journey, connecting them to more than 900 destinations across 170 countries. As the Chairman of oneworld, we look forward to welcoming Oman Air into our alliance as they will bring great benefits, allowing passengers to discover not just a new member with an excellent reputation, but a beautiful country.”

oneworld CEO Rob Gurney said: “We are delighted that Oman Air has chosen oneworld as its global airline alliance partner. With its network in Muscat and award-winning customer service, Oman Air will reinforce our position as the premier airline alliance for global travellers. As the global travel industry continues to recover from the pandemic, the significant growth of oneworld in recent years demonstrates how important alliances and partnerships will continue to be.”

Oman Air CEO Eng Abdulaziz Al Raisi said: “Oman Air’s admittance into oneworld represents a defining moment in our journey to provide passengers with greater travel options through our developing partnerships and alliances. We’re delighted to be joining the world’s foremost airline alliance at a time when demand for travel is on the rise. We look forward to welcoming oneworld members onboard Oman Air to experience the height of Omani hospitality and all that the Sultanate of Oman has to offer in terms of history, culture and natural beauty.”

About oneworld
oneworld member airlines work together to deliver consistently a superior, seamless travel experience, with special privileges and rewards for frequent flyers, including earning and redeeming miles and points across the entire alliance network. Top-tier cardholders (Emerald and Sapphire) enjoy access to airport lounges and are offered extra baggage allowances. The most regular travellers (Emerald) can also use fast track security lanes at select airports.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Publishes New Report on Destination Resilience

 500 290 wttc2
By:

WTTC Publishes New Report on Destination Resilience - SUSTAINABLEFIRST.com - TRAVELINDEXSan Juan, Puerto Rico, June 22, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today published a new report on practical guidelines and case studies to support destinations in becoming more resilient and sustainable at its Sustainability and Investment Forum taking place in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The report, ‘Enhancing Resilience to Create Sustainability in Destinations’, jointly created with ICF, WTTC’s industry partner and a renowned global consultancy and digital services provider, provides practical, structured insights, for destinations as they consider their resilience and sustainability.

Following the last two years of chaos brought on by the almost complete halt to international travel, no tourism destination has been untouched by the impact of COVID-19.

And, many destinations have also been affected by major shocks, such as extreme weather.

To support and guide destinations, this innovative analysis builds on real life case studies and presents a range of resilience actions for destinations before, during or aftershock events.

The report provides five elements destinations should focus on to build both resilience and long-term sustainability: environment, infrastructure, energy, economic, and societal resilience.

It offers four phases to analyse the shock and its aftermath: ‘understand the risk’, ‘prepare for shocks’, ‘respond to shock’, and ‘longer term strategies’.

The report presents case studies illustrating how destinations which rely heavily on tourism, whether they are cities or islands, deserts or tropics, apply resilience awareness.

Puerto Rico is one of the destinations featured as a case study, highlighting the string of environmental crises and economic challenges that have made resilience a cornerstone of their tourism strategy.

Key learnings underline the importance of small businesses, identifying risks and implementing initiatives to handle any potential crisis.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “COVID has had a devastating impact, decimating the Travel & Tourism sector around the world. But it’s certainly not the first shock to bring chaos destinations and their citizens.

“This report allows destinations to understand how to better prepare, act, and plan for future risks, strengthening their resilience and long-term sustainability.

“The pandemic has taught us you can never be prepared enough. Destinations have learnt not only from their own experiences, and those of other countries as they recover and build back.

“Puerto Rico is an example of a destination that learned through COVID and natural disasters to become more inherently resilient.”

John Wasson, ICF Chair & CEO, said: “For over half a century, ICF has been passionate about partnering with organizations all over the world to enact and institutionalize sustainable policies and practices.

“Today, we are proud to partner with WTTC to offer unique insights and practical guidance on developing adaptable sustainability plans that build long term resilience, despite prevailing uncertainties and increasing extreme events.”

Lastly, the report offers recommendations identified as key for destinations in their journey to improve their resilience: developing successful governance models, ensuring ownership and shared value, and preparation and processes for the next shock.

In 2019, the Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP was 10.3% (U.S. $9.6 trillion), falling to 5.3% (nearly U.S. $4.8 trillion) in 2020 when the pandemic was at its height, and suffered a staggering 50% loss.

WTTC’s latest EIR report also revealed that 2021 saw the beginning of the recovery for the global Travel & Tourism sector.

Its contribution to GDP climbed an impressive 21.7% year on year, to reach more than US$5.8 trillion.

The sector saw a recovery of more than 18 million global Travel & Tourism jobs, representing a positive 6.7% rise in 2021.

While recovery is underway, more can be done to ensure the sector has a sustainable and inclusive future.

To read the report in full, please click here.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO & WHO Build Coalition of Health and Tourism Partners

 500 279 wttc2
By:

 

UNWTO & WHO Build Coalition of Health and Tourism Partners - HEALTHTRAVELPLANNER.com - TRAVELINDEXGeneva, Switzerland, June 22, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO will work with the WHO Regional Office for Europe (WHO/Europe) to strengthen ties between tourism and public health in Europe’s smallest states.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown the importance of building more sustainability and resilience into both economies and public health systems. Recognizing the need to learn from the lessons of the crisis, the two UN agencies will further develop their collaboration and strengthen cooperation. In the eighth high-level meeting of the WHO/Europe Small Countries Initiative (SCI), held in Bečići, Montenegro, UNWTO set out the case for promoting health and sustainable tourism in small countries, including the 11 European countries with fewer than 2 million people.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili told the meeting: “COVID-19 showed that any crisis that threatens the health, safety and security of people, communities and the environment is also a risk to tourism itself. I am confident that strong cooperation at all levels will place health high on the tourism agenda. It will make for healthy tourists, healthy communities, a healthy environment, and healthy economies for current and future generations.”

Montenegro Statement on health and tourism

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown the importance of building more sustainability and resilience into both economies and public health systems

Organized around the theme “Towards better health and well-being in small countries of the WHO European Region”, the ministerial event focused on two issues currently at the top of the agenda for small countries, namely emergencies (long-term prevention, health system preparedness, response and recovery) and developing healthy and sustainable tourism. On the occasion of the meeting, the “Roadmap towards better health in small countries in the WHO European Region 2022–2025” was presented and the “Montenegro Statement” was unanimously adopted.

The “Montenegro Statement” recognizes that health and tourism are deeply interconnected in the globalized world, and the reopening of travel and tourism is crucial for economic recovery, jobs and livelihoods in small countries. It highlights that cooperation and collaboration are required and welcomes and supports the creation of a coalition of partners on health and tourism, jointly coordinated by the WHO Regional Office for Europe and the UNWTO to elaborate the evidence for policy measures and facilitate country dialogue.

Long-standing collaboration 

UNWTO and WHO have kept regular coordination since the outbreak of the pandemic and WHO has participated in the Global Tourism Crisis Committee, created in March 2020 to guide the tourism sector and formulate a sector-wide response to the unprecedented challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic and restart tourism with data-driven decisions based on scientific evidence.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

“Camp Moxy” Is in Session! Moxy Hotels Transports Guests Back With New Throwback-themed Cocktails and ‘90s-Inspired Snacks

 840 560 wttc2
By:

Camp_Moxy_Selects_HighRes-5.jpg

Moxy Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, is celebrating the official start of summer by taking guests back to their childhood heyday with the launch of “Camp Moxy,” a throwback-themed experience full of nostalgic sips and snacks inspired by the ‘90s. Moxy is putting its own adult twist on perennial favorites such as the ‘Dirty Shirley,’ recently dubbed the drink of the summer, inviting guests to reminisce on good times, refreshing drinks, and special treats.

From Seattle to New York City, curated retro cocktails will be available at select Moxy hotels across the U.S. from June 21 through September 22. The easy-going feeling of summer break is at the heart of “Camp Moxy”, encouraging guests to take time to play. Complementing the three signature cocktails is a “snacuterie” box, available at select properties, where every menu item shouts school’s out and summer is in session:

Camp_Moxy_Selects_HighRes-3.jpg

  • The Dirty Shirley: A mature take on the classic childhood favorite adding Wheatly vodka to the traditional mix of lemon-lime soda and grenadine, topped with a cherry garnish.
  • The “Dirtier” Shirley: A spirited cocktail that substitutes Casamigos Blanco tequila for vodka and introduces mint to create a refreshing mix.
  • The Twisted Shirley: The Shirley’s tropical cousin complemented with Appleton Signature Rum and aperol topped with a peach ring for a tantalizing beverage that is sure to quench any thirst.
  • Snacuterie: The quintessential childhood cravings box featuring a surprise mix of sweet and savory favorite snacks from cheese balls and Pringles, to Dunkaroos and Pop Rocks.

“With an unabashed approach to giving guests everything they want and nothing they don’t, our ‘Camp Moxy’ menu appeals to the young at heart who crave a blast from the past that is as tasty as it is fun,” says Brian Jaymont, Global Brand Leader, Moxy Hotels. “Nostalgia has the power to take us back to a time with memories grounded in the senses, and with this new offering, we offer a cheeky nudge to find the joy in life’s simple pleasures.”

Locations featuring the “Camp Moxy” cocktails include Moxy NYC East Village, Moxy NYC Chelsea, and Moxy NYC Times Square. Moxy hotels that will feature both the “Camp Moxy” cocktails and snacuterie include Moxy NYC Downtown, Moxy Chicago Downtown, Moxy Austin – University – which will also offer its own nostalgic programming with its “Pink Screen Summer Movie Series” featuring ‘90s classics – and Moxy Seattle Downtown – which will also feature “Throwback Mixtape Thursdays.”

Moxy is also offering guests the opportunity to win prizes by posting their “Camp Moxy” experience to Instagram or TikTok #SummerAtTheMoxySweepstakes. The grand prize winner will receive a Moxy “Fall Field Trip,” including a 3-day/2-night trip for two to any Moxy in the continental U.S., with additional winners earning Moxy gift cards. For rules, visit Summer at the Moxy. No purchase necessary. Ages 21+. Contest ends September 6, 2022.

Moxy Hotels participates in Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International. Marriott Bonvoy members earn points for their stay, and at other hotels and resorts across Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.

About Moxy Hotels®

Moxy offers a playful hotel experience for the young at heart. With 110 properties open across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, Moxy boldly breaks the rules of a conventional hotel stay across the globe. The nontraditional experience starts with check-in at Bar Moxy and comes to life throughout its social public spaces, like the Lounge and Library, and the small but smart bedrooms. Moxy provides stylish, industrial design and sociable service at an attractive price point, so that guests can splurge on the experiences that matter most to them during their travels. Moxy celebrates nonconformity, open-mindedness, and originality above all – forever giving its guests permission to Play On #atthemoxy. For more information, visit www.moxyhotels.com and join the fun #atthemoxy on Instagram. Moxy is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

Media Contacts

Christine Lin
Global Communications, Moxy Hotels
christine.lin@marriott.com

Ballantines PR
PR Agency of Record for Moxy Hotels
marriott@ballantinespr.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott Bonvoy Invites Members to Indulge Their Passions Both Past & Present With New “Throwbacks” and “Tailor Made” Experiences

 840 560 wttc2
By:

Yola - Joseph Ross Smith[30].jpg
Yola – Joseph Ross Smith

Marriott Bonvoy – Marriott International’s award-winning travel program – is expanding its beloved Marriott Bonvoy Moments platform to give culture-hungry members even more access to amazing once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Using Marriott Bonvoy points accumulated from travel, everyday activities and purchases on Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit cards, members now have access to two new categories on the platform:

  • “Throwbacks”: Ever wanted to cruise in the Batmobile or re-live your favorite 00s cult classic movie? With more than half of consumers seeking comfort in familiar, nostalgic content[1], this first new category speaks to this desire for experiences that evoke the memories of simpler times.
  • “Tailor Made”: We all know there’s nothing like a one-of-a-kind piece, and this second new category appeals to today’s discerning travelers who appreciate this craftsmanship and personalization, giving members a special, made-to-order item to serve as a memory of their experience forever.

The launch of the new categories comes as desire for travel and experiences comes roaring back – with recent data showing that tourism spending on experiences is up roughly 34% above 2019 levels and has outpaced spending on “things” since July 2021[2]. These new categories will complement Marriott Bonvoy Moments’ existing offerings across music, culinary experiences, premier sporting events and more, with marketing partners including the NFL, Manchester United and Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team. Members may redeem their points for either fixed-price experiences or use them to bid on packages through auctions using the easy-to-navigate platform.

“With leisure travel and the demand for experiences now even exceeding 2019 levels, we want to give our members more ways to get out there and access experiences with family and friends,” said David Flueck, Senior Vice President, Marriott Bonvoy. “These Moments speak to two trends that have become increasingly popular among our members: Firstly, the interest in nostalgic experiences; and secondly, the desire for one-of-a-kind, personalized items. We’re excited to be constantly bringing our members more ways to spend their hard-earned points and more reasons to get excited about being part of Marriott Bonvoy.”

Olivia Landau - The Clear Cut.jpg
Olivia Landau – The Clear Cut

The packages that will be available at launch are below, with more Moments under these themes dropping throughout 2022:

From 00s Cult Movie Classics to Riding in a Batmobile Replica, Throwback Moments Provide a Dose of Nostalgia

Give Your Pooch The Ultimate Puppy Pampering Day Alongside Actress Jennifer Coolidge:
Travelers who love to spoil their fur babies can join award-winning actress and cult classic film star Jennifer Coolidge (Best in Show, White Lotus), at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel in Orange County, CA, for the ultimate day of puppy pampering. The experience will be complete with a photoshoot directed by Coolidge herself and shot by renowned photographer Shayan Asgharnia. Marriott Bonvoy is also extending the experience to a few lucky pups from rescue dog non-profit Wags and Walks, who will get their glam shots taken alongside Jennifer for their official adoption photos to help them find their forever home. Opens for bidding 75,000 points.

Enjoy a Piece of Nostalgic Music History with a Contemporary Twist, with a Private Performance by Grammy-nominated Musician Yola:
Members can touch down at The Memphian, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Memphis and revel in nostalgic music history with a contemporary twist. Attendees will enjoy a private, stripped-down performance by one of 2022’s buzziest artists, Grammy-nominated musician, singer and songwriter Yola, who also plays “Sister Rosetta Tharpe” in this summer’s “Elvis” biopic. Yola will play her own music, including songs from her critically acclaimed album “Stand For Myself”, and share behind-the-scenes stories from her work, as well as insights into the significance of the “Godmother of Rock and Roll,” Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Opens for bidding 50,000 points.

Satisfy Your Childhood Sweet Tooth with Milk Bar’s Founder, Christina Tosi:
Members can relive their youth by savoring childhood treats with two-time James Beard award-winning chef, best-selling author, baker and founder of the bakery empire Milk Bar, Christina Tosi, at a Marriott Bonvoy exclusive culinary Moment in New York City. Participants will learn trade secrets as they create cookies, cakes and more — that will not only bring back memories, but also provide nostalgic recipes with a twist that can be shared with future generations. Opens for bidding 50,000 points.

Go For a Ride in Steve McQueen’s 1956 Jaguar or a 1966 Batmobile Replica:
Car enthusiasts can take a trip down memory lane with a ride-along experience in Steve McQueen’s 1956 Jaguar XKSS or in a replica of the iconic 1966 Batmobile from the Petersen Automotive Museum’s private collection. Members will get to cruise through Los Angeles and enjoy a lunch with the Petersen Museum Executive Director and Museum Conservator, as well as take a private tour of the Petersen Museum Vault that features over 250 historical and renowned vehicles from around the world. Opens for bidding 30,000 points.

With Tailor Made Moments, Members Get Bespoke Brag-worthy Items

Create a Custom Look with Jonathan Simkhai & Sit Front Row at NYFW:
Fashion lovers can enjoy a private collaboration session with American fashion designer Jonathan Simkhai. Participants will visit his flagship store in West Hollywood, CA in July and co-create a made-to-measure evening wear look. In September, participants can show off their custom ensemble while sitting front row at the designer’s Spring-Summer 2023 New York Fashion Week show. Opens for bidding 50,000 points.

Elevate Your Bond with Bespoke Wedding Bands from The Clear Cut:
Couples tying the knot can make their “I dos” even more memorable with custom wedding bands from The Clear Cut. Participants will get to meet The Clear Cut’s Founder & CEO, Olivia Landau, tour the New York City showroom and collaborate creatively with a jewelry expert to help design made-to-order, bespoke wedding bands. Opens for bidding 30,000 points.

Don a Custom Suit by Celebrity Tailor Richfresh:
Members can design a bespoke suit or luxury athleisure ensemble alongside celebrity tailor and fashion designer to the stars, Richfresh, whose client rolodex includes A-List celebrities from the world of sports, music and movies. Members will creatively collaborate on a one-of-a-kind look with Richfresh at a location in Los Angeles, CA. Opens for bidding 50,000 points.

To explore Marriott Bonvoy Moments, please visit https://moments.marriottbonvoy.com. For more information about Marriott Bonvoy or to enroll as a member for free, visit here. Join the conversation @MarriottBonvoy and #MarriottBonvoyMoments.

[1] Nielsen, COVID-19: Tracking the impact on the entertainment landscape
[2] Mastercard Economics Institute, Travel 2022: Trends & Transitions

About Marriott Bonvoy®

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

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

New VIP Experiential Travel Club for Elite Global Explorers Launched

 500 308 wttc2
By:

New VIP Experiential Travel Club for Elite Global Explorers Launched - TOP25WORLD.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, June 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The exclusive club will enable members to create personalised itineraries with luxury hotels, top dining, yacht charters, and private jets flights across Southeast Asia. AQBooking .com, the new luxury booking service for elite global travellers, launches today in Thailand, bringing a wealth of high-end travel and hospitality services to its community of savvy, experience-seeking clientele.

Owned Aquarius International, AQBooking.com is an exclusive club that enables its members to explore a curated A-list of high-quality tourism brands, from the finest hotels and resorts to world-class dining, yacht charters, premium flights and more. Every aspect of their journey will be supported by bespoke concierge services and club benefits, all available at the touch of a button.

AQBooking .com has created a comprehensive ecosystem of leading travel providers, covering a wide range of sectors. Amadeus and HotelBeds, two of the world’s leading online travel and hotel distributors, will supply their extensive content to AQBooking .com, and GHM and IHG will enable members to book some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts, including The Chedi Aquarius Resort Koh Chang, Aquarius International’s new 206-key five-star island resort in Thailand, which is managed by GHM. Private jet and yacht charter specialists such as Isabella Yachts Phuket and MJets will elevate every booking to new levels of luxury, and ground transport services enable seamless end-to-end itineraries.

Having crafted their tailored itinerary from AQBooking .com’s comprehensive collection of tourism products, reservations will be processed securely with major Asian and global providers such as Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay and WeChat Pay, and customers will be able to earn reward points on all their purchases.

Targeting a select customer base of high-net-worth individuals who value personal service and bespoke experiences above all else, AQBooking .com will not aim to compete with traditional online travel agencies. Instead, it will focus on quality over quantity by creating an exclusive community of like-minded globetrotters.

This launch of AQBooking .com in Thailand has been timed to coincide with the rebound of the country’s travel and tourism industry. According to the latest visitor forecast by PATA, the kingdom could receive as many as 12.4 million international visitors in 2022 – a vast improvement on the last two years – and almost 47 million in 2024. This rapid recovery is in line with the projected upward trend for Southeast Asia; PATA predicts that the region could welcome 49.6 million visitors in 2022, rising to 169.1 million by 2024.

“We are delighted to announce the launch of AQBooking .com in Thailand and support the growth of luxury travel services and quality tourism in the country,” said Edward Chi, Founder of Aquarius International.

“Today’s luxury travellers require more than just premium products; they desire personalised experiences. As the world starts to travel again, we foresee strong pent-up demand from high-end guests who have been unable to explore the world over the last two years. AQBooking .com will enable its members to create unique itineraries, including luxury hotels, private jets, yacht charters, limousine transfers and fine-dining. Our aim is to create the ultimate VIP travel club for today’s first-class adventurers,” he added.

Hospitality partner GHM’s CEO, Tommy Lai said: “We are very happy to deepen our relationship with Aquarius International by joining AQBooking .com. Since we partnered with the company on The Chedi Aquarius Resort Koh Chang project, we have been impressed by their vision and ambition. We have always strived to craft unique experiences for our guests and becoming part of this elite community will allow us seamlessly integrate stays at our world-class resorts with a full range of services.”

Aquarius International is owned by Norcal Thailand, a division of Hong Kong-based Norcal Venture Capital Group Limited (NVC), which has global assets worth in excess of US$1 billion. Aquarius International has a 360-degree portfolio that encompasses five-star resorts, residences, yacht charters, fine dining and membership services.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO and Allianz Partners Advance for Safer and more Responsible Tourism

 500 276 wttc2
By:

UNWTO and Allianz Partners Advance for Safer and more Responsible Tourism - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, June 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and its Affiliate Member Allianz Partners have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, consolidating their joint commitment to promoting safe, responsible, and accessible tourism.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

The agreement confirms and renews the desire from both parties to continue collaborating in key areas, namely promoting the values of sustainable, inclusive, and accessible tourism; advancing the digital transformation of tourism; promoting tourism education and training; and facilitating knowledge exchange between stakeholders from across the tourism sector.

Ion Vilcu, Director of the UNWTO Affiliate Members, confirmed: “The cooperation with Affiliate Members such as Allianz Partners is one of the objectives of the Organization, and issues such as sustainable tourism development, accessibility, training and capacity building in tourism are among the priorities of the UNWTO. We thank Allianz Partners for its contribution as a member of the Working Group for the elaboration of the International Code for the Protection of Tourists.”

Our mission in the tourism sector is to offer security and protection to travellers

Borja Diaz, CEO of Allianz Partners Spain, said: “Our mission in the tourism sectoris to offer security and protection to travellers, who only have to worry about enjoying themselves. Affiliate Membership of UNWTO allows us to work along these lines and strengthen our commitment to sustainable travel with a leading organisation in the sector. We are looking for solutions that offer confidence to travellers, who now return to travel being more aware of their impact on the environment”.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

About Allianz Partners

Allianz Partners is a leading Assistance and Travel Insurance company, specializing in the areas of personal mobility, home, wellness, and travel. Its solutions combine the latest technology with excellence in customer service and are available to both partners (B2B) and end customers (B2C) through its direct and digital channels, under the Allianz Assistance brand.
Its international presence, with more than 19,800 employees in 75 countries, together with its extensive network of professionals, ‘makes life easier’ for millions of customers every year, all over the world.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Calls for Greater Coordination Between Caribbean Governments

 500 341 wttc2
By:

WTTC Calls for Greater Coordination Between Caribbean Governments - TRAVELINDEXSan Juan, Puerto Rico, June 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the Caribbean’s Travel & Tourism sector could create 1.34 million jobs over the next 10 years, if governments and the private sector enhance intra-regional cooperation and become a single voice.

At its Sustainable and Investment Summit in Puerto Rico, WTTC is launching a new publication looking at the future growth of the region. The report addresses a number of key challenges that the islands face and sets clear recommendations to maximise the growth potential of the Caribbean.

The Caribbean is hugely reliant on Travel & Tourism and international visitors. In 2019, Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to the region’s GDP was 13.9 % (US$ 61.5 billion), falling to just 7.1% (US$28.8 billion) in 2020, which represented a staggering 53.2% loss.

The sector also supported more than 2.7 million jobs across the region, before experiencing a staggering 25.8%, falling to 2.1 million in 2020, suffering a higher drop than the global average.

According to the latest report, published today in Puerto Rico, the sector’s contribution to GDP could grow at an average rate of 6.7% annually over the next decade, outstripping the region’s overall economy growth.

The Caribbean Travel & Tourism’s contribution to the region’s GDP could reach more than US$100 billion by 2032.

In order to achieve this, the global tourism body says stronger collaboration across the Caribbean region, investment in infrastructure, better air connectivity and investing in the workforce, will be critical as the Caribbean competes with other parts of the world.

Collaboration with the private sector along with tourism industry organisations such as the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) and other local associations, will also be key to achieving this long-term growth.

The report also indicates how sustainability and protecting nature are also key elements which will enhance resilience for the future and will accelerate its recovery.

WTTC’s ‘Travel & Tourism in the Caribbean: Prospects for Growth’ analyses the Travel & Tourism sector’s impact on the region, as well as post-pandemic recovery and key challenges and recommendations to ensure a sustainable future for the region.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The Caribbean region is the bedrock of international travel. Its economies and future rely heavily on Travel & Tourism”

“Over the next decade T&T in the Caribbean could grow 6.7% annually and be worth 100 billion dollars by 2032. This would create 1.3 million new jobs totalling 3.8 million people employed by our sector.

“But to achieve a long-term, sustained recovery, governments must work together to focus on connectivity, sustainable infrastructure and attracting investment by cutting red tape and taxes.”

WTTC’s latest EIR report also reveals that 2021 saw the beginning of the recovery for the Caribbean Travel & Tourism sector, which recorded the second-fastest recovery of all regions, that saw its contribution to GDP grow by 36.6%, to reach more than US$39 billion (9.1% of the total economy).

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Louis Vuitton Opens Restaurant in Saint-Tropez

 500 289 wttc2
By:

Louis Vuitton Opens Restaurant Saint-Tropez - TOP25RESTAURNTS.com - TRAVELINDEXSaint-Tropez, France, June 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Louis Vuitton has opened a restaurant in the glamorous Saint-Tropez known for its jet-set clientele, high-end beach clubs, and exciting nightlife.

• Discover the World’s Best Fine Dining Restaurants at Top25Restaurants.com

The dining spot, to be called Mory Sacko at Louis Vuitton is a 40-seat restaurant with outdoor dining located at the White 1921 hotel and headed by Mory Sacko, the French-West African chef behind the Michelin-starred MoSuke restaurant in Paris. His menu will showcase a blend of African, Japanese, and French contemporary culinary influences—reflecting Saint Tropez’s role as a destination for well-heeled travelers from around the world.

The Mory Sacko restaurant at Louis Vuitton, where the taste of design fuses with a contemporary, gourmet spirit. Sacko’s cuisine is inspired by African and Japanese flavors, reinventing dishes such as the Japanese bento box-style meal kits called ekiben. Dinner service offers everything from eggplant tacos to prime rib to a lighter tapas menu.

Sacko also contributed to the decor, which boasts ship-deck wooden flooring, rattan chairs and hanging lamps, plus a verdant wall studded with sculpted monogram emblems.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Unbound Ohri: What We Can Learn from Deepak Ohri

 500 286 wttc2
By:

Unbound Ohri What We Can Learn from Deepak Ohri - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, June 20, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Travel has not been easy in the last two years; many opted to stay home and wait and see what would happen. This is not the case for a visionary like Deepak Ohri, who sees a significant opportunity to do even better and more creatively in every challenge. In the last year, when travel was very restricted, he visited the United States three times, spending significant time between New York, southern California, and Miami. He decided to put his brain into new challenges in his life by introducing a new form of experiential learning to the MBA students. In one year, he was able to co-design and co-create a revolutionary course offered by the MBA program at Florida International University in Miami.

Deepak Ohri teamed with the marketing faculty from the College of Business and introduced a breakthrough concept of Luxury Incubator. This unique course was offered for the first time at the university. The Dean of the College of Business officially congratulated Deepak for pioneering such an initiative and being the first in the school’s history to offer such an experience that had a remarkable impact on the learning journey of the MBA students. The group of 18 MBA students was selected. The group traveled with Deepak Ohri and collaborating marketing faculty, from Miami to New York and Los Angeles.

The idea of the Luxury Incubator was simple, introducing students to the concept of luxury through experiential learning. MBA students were able to observe the entire process of a luxury brand creation, starting from design, walking through the legal aspect of setting up a company, visiting luxury showrooms, and learning about what it takes to end up on the magazine cover. The trip’s culmination was a visit to the most iconic hotels in Laguna Beach and Beverly Hills and a coffee in a small café next to the Pacific Ocean.

In luxury what matters is the experience, this was a clear message to the students. Deepak Ohri also introduced MBA students to the concept of the Ohri Luxury Index, something he has been working on for some time. He wanted the students to learn how to assess a luxury brand and its strategy. His main goal was to show students how to understand the principles and practices that contribute to the global success of luxury brands by understanding the value of finding exclusivity and distinguishing the brand’s quality and creativity.

The Luxury Incubator provided the MBA students a comprehensive approach to understanding what it takes to run a successful luxury brand that shapes the industry trends. Deepak Ohri is ready to travel again. This time he will be presenting in Miami at the most prestigious academic conference: AIB – Academy of International Business, a concept of experiential learning. His audience is not a group of MBA students but around 600 management professors from all over the world.

What is next for Deepak Ohri besides his CEO position and overseeing day-to-day operation of securing lebua as a top international brand? The next step for Deepak Ohri is his growing passion for teaching entrepreneurship; he is an Executive in Residence in Entrepreneurship and Innovation and Chairman of the Executive Board for The Pino Global Entrepreneurship Center.

His book, “A Bridge Not Too Far, Where Creativity Meets Innovation” serves as a base for the executive courses the center will offer. His executive master classes are based on entrepreneurial management, marketing, and leadership principles. Soon, Deepak Ohri will bring even more breakthrough concepts to business education.

Deepak Ohri focuses his success on creating a lasting impact. He was the first to introduce a rooftop dining experience concept that became a worldwide sensation. He is the first to create a Luxury Incubator MBA course that combines industry, academic, and study field practice creating a brand-new concept of experiential learning. The Ohri Luxury Index is the first to comprehensively analyze how luxury brands can implement the emotional experience to elevate their value. Deepak Ohri never looks back; he is an unconventional and unstoppable visionary who shapes the future.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News