Global Travel News

SureStay Hotel Collection by Best Western Arrives in Bangkok

 500 275 wttc2
By:

SureStay Hotel Collection by Best Western Arrives in Bangkok - TRAVELINDEX - HOTELWORLDS.comBangkok, Thailand, June 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Best Western Hotels and Resorts has reaffirmed its position as one of Thailand’s leading international hotel groups with the opening of Seekers Finders Rama IV, SureStay Collection by Best Western, in downtown Bangkok. This becomes the first-ever SureStay Collection hotel in Thailand as Best Western continues to expand its guest offerings in this important market.

A new midscale hotel for independent-minded travelers, Seekers Finders Rama IV, SureStay Collection by Best Western is perfectly positioned in the heart of the Thai capital, surrounded by major attractions. The 81 rooms are ideal for short and extended stays, with comfortable bedding, sofa beds, rain showers, working desks, microwaves, refrigerators and sinks, in addition to LCD TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can also unwind in style at the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool and bar.

Just a short walk from Khlong Toei MRT subway station, this hotel provides an excellent base from which to explore the city, including Bangkok’s famous temples, shopping malls, restaurants and top international hospitals such as MedPark. Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre is also within easy reach.

This new hotel will join the global network of Best Western Rewards®, the group’s award-winning guest loyalty program, which offers exclusive member-only benefits at approximately 4,500 hotels and resorts in more than 100 countries and territories worldwide.

The launch of Seekers Finders Rama IV, SureStay Collection by Best Western confirms Best Western’s position as one of the leading hotel operators in Bangkok and reflects the company’s long-term confidence in this dynamic destination. The group now offers its customers a choice of six properties in the Thai capital, covering five distinct brands: Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Vīb®, SureStay Plus® and SureStay Collection. The BWH Hotel Group® regional head office for Asia is also located in Bangkok.

“I am delighted to announce the opening of this exceptional hotel. Prior to the global pandemic, Bangkok was the most popular city on the planet, attracting more than 22 million¹ business and leisure travelers from all around the world. As life and travel starts to return to normal, Best Western will be ready to welcome all visitors back to the Thai capital. The opening of Seekers Finders Rama IV, SureStay Collection by Best Western, and the introduction of yet another of our industry-leading brands to Thailand, underscores our enduring confidence in the future of the kingdom’s tourism industry,” said Erwann Mahe, Managing Director of International Operations – Asia, BWH Hotel Group.

Thailand has now lifted all travel restrictions for international visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, as the country returns to normal following the global pandemic.

About Best Western Hotels and Resorts
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand within the BWH Hotel Group® global network. With 18 brands and approximately 4,500 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. Brands include Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Vīb®, GLō®, Aiden®, Sadie®, BW Premier Collection® and BW Signature Collection®. Through acquisition, WorldHotelsTM Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Distinctive and WorldHotels Crafted collections are also offered. Completing the portfolio is SureStay®, SureStay Plus®, SureStay Collection® and SureStay Studio® franchises**.

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

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bangkok’s Newest Dining Den with Latin American Roots, Guilty

 500 279 wttc2
By:

Bangkok's Newest Dining Den with Latin American Roots, Guilty - TOP25RESTAURANTS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, June 14, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Right in the heart of Bangkok’s elegant Ratchadamri district, Anantara Siam is proud to welcome hedonists and pleasure-seekers to its newest upscale hangout. GUILTY awaits with Peruvian-inspired culinary delights and tantalising mixology.

A familiar figure on the Bangkok culinary scene, Chef Carlos Rodriguez brings his extensive experience to a creative menu. Having honed his culinary skills at El Mariachi, Mejico, Gaggan, Penthouse Bar + Grill and Makan, Chef Rodriguez takes diners on a gastronomic adventure through modern Latin American cuisine at GUILTY. Peruvian flavours get a Nikkei twist in dishes like ceviche in leche de tigre and the tuna acevichado roll. A selection of corn tortilla tacos nod to Mexico and the robust barbacoa menu includes a Brasilian wagyu and cuts served with Peruvian rubs or chimichurri sauces. The dessert menu is a sweet symphony starring orange and lime churros and a sinful tres leches cake.

Master mixologists craft cocktails to complement the Latin American theme at GUILTY. Signature sips include Manteca y Dulce—a combination of pisco and dulce de leche, and Cactus Scape No.1—with tequila, pineapple, agave and adobo spices. For the adventurous, the selection of party shots includes cannabis, palm leaf and coffee with coconut.

The interior space combines bold geometry with earthy green and amber tones to create a distinctive aesthetic inspired by the works of Richard Artschwager and the pop art movement. Guests are greeted by an oversized resin cast feature light that hovers over the central space as an abstract art piece, and masterpieces from local creators including Melanies Greis, Nakrob Moonmanus, Kitikong Tilokwattanotai and Phannapast “Yoon” Taychamaythakool adorn the space to welcome patrons and hotel guests alike.

The party starts at GUILTY, where there’s no shame in a good time. Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch between 12 noon and 2.30pm and for dinner between 6.00pm and 12 midnight. For more information, contact +66 2 126 8866 or email: guilty.asia@anantara.com.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Bogotá Joins UNWTO Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories

 500 268 wttc2
By:

Bogotá Joins UNWTO Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories - VISITCOLOMBIA.org - TRAVELINDEXBogota, Colombia, June 14, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has welcomed Bogotá’s Tourism Observatory into its International Network of Sustainable Observatories (INSTO).

Bogota’s Tourism Observatory has longstanding and extensive monitoring experience and has been further strengthened by the City Council as an instrument of public management and mechanism to consolidate, systematize, analyze and research information of the tourism sector. Becoming a member of INSTO will help Bogotá in managing tourism development in a responsible and sustainable manner and allow it to better deal with post-pandemic recovery.

We are very pleased to welcome Bogotá into the Network as the latest member

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “The INSTO network is a platform where we welcome Observatories that are committed to basing the sustainable development of tourism on evidence, participatory approaches and transparency. We are very pleased to welcome Bogotá into the Network as the latest member.”

Inclusive future for Bogotá´s tourism

Bogotá is home to a wide variety of tourist resources and attractions and has an infrastructure that allows for the development of different high-quality tourism products. As the most popular Colombian destination in terms of tourist numbers, arrivals in 2021 reached almost 6 million, with growth of 49.8% in relation to 2020, contributing US$5.795 billion corresponding to 2.4% of the total GDP of the city, which meant an annual increase of 38.2% between 2020 and 2021. Within the Sustainable Tourism Policy of Colombia 2022, the vision of strengthening the reputation and recognition of Colombia as a sustainable tourism destination is clearly outlined.

The Vice Minister of Tourism Ricardo Galindo Bueno assured that “for the Vice Ministry of Tourism it is great news that the Bogotá’s Tourism Observatory is part of the UNWTO INSTO network, because a tool of these characteristics and qualities, allows public policies of the sector in the district to continue to be nourished by objective measurements that improve decision making”.

Director of the District Institute of Tourism (IDT), Karol Fajardo Mariño explained: “The adhesion of the Bogotá’s Tourism Observatory to the UNWTO INSTO Network will allow us to share with other tourist destinations experiences and development and measurement strategies based on exemplary sustainability, in an effort to respond to the needs of quality tourism information demanded by the sector.”

The Bogotá’s Tourism Observatory will monitor 11 key areas for tourism sustainability: tourism seasonality, employment, economic benefits of the destination, energy management, water management, wastewater management, solid waste management, climate action, accessibility, local satisfaction and governance, which will facilitate decision-making and the processes of formulating public policies and strengthening the sustainable development of our city.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Traveloka Joins Global Sustainable Tourism Council

 500 285 wttc2
By:

Traveloka Joins Global Sustainable Tourism Council - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, Singapore, June 14, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Traveloka announced that it officially joins the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s global network as a member. This membership is a part of Traveloka’s strategic effort in preserving the environment, which underlines the company’s commitment in realizing sustainable tourism, by participating in and contributing to the efforts to advance sustainability in various sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

Traveloka started its humble beginnings as a one-stop travel tech solution platform catering to the needs of Indonesians, and has since evolved to be Southeast Asia’s lifestyle superapp, bringing its services to six other markets in the region. This includes transport booking services such as flight tickets, buses, trains, car rental, and airport transfer, as well as access to a large accommodation inventory across the region, not limited to hotels, apartments, guest houses, homestays, resorts and villas, making Traveloka an all-encompassing platform with the widest selection of accommodation and packages.

With a strong local customer base in Southeast Asia, the Traveloka superapp has been downloaded more than 100 million times and boasts more than 40 million monthly active users as of January 2022. As a technology company with a strong presence in the tourism sector, Traveloka realizes the importance in educating stakeholders in the industry, including its partners and users, on the significance of environmental sustainability and social responsibility. One of its most recent initiatives includes lending assistance to the Indonesian government’s plans to develop domestic tourism sustainably by planting 40,000 seedlings along the shoreline of Buleleng Regency, North Bali.

As a member of the GSTC, Traveloka plans to support the GSTC mission to promote sustainable tourism standards in the hospitality sector in Southeast Asia.

“With borders reopened and restrictions eased, tourism will resume its role as a key economic driver after a hiatus for two years. The traveler of 2022 will be much more refined, caring more about sustainability, local communities, people and brands that align with their own personal principles; and it is important that businesses prioritize sustainable tourism with the commitment to preserve nature and utilize natural resources responsibly,” said Alfan Hendro, Chief Operating Officer at Traveloka. “Traveloka will continue to play a strategic role in supporting the environmental agenda anywhere we operate, and we hope that our membership with the GSTC will help open up more doors for us to initiate sustainable tourism in the region.”
GSTC Welcomes Traveloka

“As travel within Asia is rebounding, both businesses and governments push for greater adoption of the GSTC criteria by hotels and other types of accommodations,” says Roi Ariel, General Manager of GSTC. “We welcome Traveloka to utilize the GSTC framework, which can bring about a positive impact in the region.”

“GSTC is very pleased to welcome Traveloka into our network of businesses and policy-makers striving to make sustainability an integral part of the tourism industry,” says Randy Durband, Chief Executive Officer of GSTC. “We applaud their plans to seek more and better ways to inform travelers of sustainable product options.”

About Traveloka
Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s lifestyle superapp, provides users access to discover and purchase a wide range of travel, local services, and financial services products. Traveloka’s comprehensive product portfolio includes transport booking services such as flight tickets, buses, trains, car rental, airport transfer, as well as access to the largest accommodation inventory in Southeast Asia, including hotels, apartments, guest houses, homestays, resorts, and villas, making Traveloka a booking platform with the widest selection of accommodation and packages.

Traveloka is also a key player in the local services category (currently specific to certain markets), offering reservations for a wide range of local attractions, activities, wellness and beauty clinics, culinary directories as well as food delivery. Traveloka also offers financing, payment, and insurance products to help Southeast Asian consumers fulfill their lifestyle aspirations. Traveloka provides 24/7 customer service in local languages as well as more than 40 different local payment methods. Traveloka lifestyle superapp has been downloaded more than 100 million times, making it the most popular travel and lifestyle booking application in the Southeast Asian region.

About the GSTC
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council® (GSTC®) establishes and manages global sustainable standards, known as the GSTC Criteria. There are two sets: Destination Criteria for public policy-makers and destination managers, and Industry Criteria for hotels and tour operators. They are arranged in four pillars: (A) Sustainable management; (B) Socioeconomic impacts; (C) Cultural impacts; and (D) Environmental impacts (including consumption of resources, reducing pollution, and conserving biodiversity and landscapes). Since tourism destinations each have their own culture, environment, customs, and laws, the Criteria are designed to be adapted to local conditions and supplemented by additional criteria for the specific location and activity.

The GSTC Criteria form the foundation for GSTC’s assurance role for Certification Bodies that certify hotels/accommodations, tour operators, and destinations as having sustainable policies and practices in place. GSTC does not directly certify any products or services, but provides accreditation to those that do. The GSTC is an independent and neutral USA-registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization that represents a diverse and global membership, including national and provincial governments, leading travel companies, hotels, tour operators, NGOs, individuals and communities – all striving to achieve best practices in sustainable tourism.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

DISNEY WISH COMES TRUE

 1080 494 wttc2
By:

Ahead of its inaugural sailing on July 14, Disney Cruise Line took delivery of its newest ship, the Disney Wish, during a traditional maritime ceremony held last week in Bremerhaven, Germany.

The occasion was marked by numerous Meyer Weft and Disney Cruise Line executives coming together (photo) to witness the lowering of the Meyer Werft flag and raising of the Disney Cruise Line flag on the ship.

Delivery is the final milestone in the ship’s construction journey, which began more than two years ago at the shipyard in Germany.

Disney Cruise Line presented Meyer Weft with an elegant Cinderella statuette commemorating the beautiful life-sized bronze statue that welcomes guests in the ship’s Grand Hall.

Following the ceremony (on June 9), Captain Marco Nogara took the helm of the Disney Wish for the transatlantic voyage from Bremerhaven to her home in Port Canaveral, Florida.

The Disney Wish, the fifth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, introduces a brand-new, distinctly Disney design concept. The motif of enchantment – found at the heart of so many Disney stories – is the architectural and thematic foundation of the ship’s design.

The ship features new spaces and experiences infused with Disney storytelling, bringing to life the fantastical worlds and beloved characters at the heart of Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars adventures.

The Disney Wish will sail its maiden voyage on July 14, followed by a season of three- and four-night cruises to Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, from Port Canaveral, Fla.

Fun Facts

• The ship will be filled with innovative new experiences steeped in Disney storytelling, including the first-ever Disney attraction at sea, immersive dining experiences themed to “Frozen” and Marvel, and a high-end lounge set in the Star Wars¬ galaxy.

• The signature stern sculpture features Rapunzel and her pal Pascal.

• One of the two iconic red funnels will house a first-of-its-kind, two-story suite. It’s nearly 190 sq. m. with incredible double-height ocean views.

• Artwork on the ship’s bow depicts Captain Minnie Mouse for the first time, solidifying her place at the forefront of the fleet’s future.

• Like all Disney Cruise Line ships, the exterior design of the Disney Wish is inspired by classic ocean liners and decked out in the emblematic colours of Mickey Mouse.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SIMPLY D-LIGHTFUL: YVR terminal expansion fully operational

 1080 494 wttc2
By:

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has commenced full operations of its newly expanded international terminal. At nearly 27,000 sq. m., the Pier D project is the airport’s largest terminal expansion since 1996 and is said to incorporate the latest advances in operational excellence, passenger experience, climate, and accessibility.

The new terminal expansion offers eight new gates, adding capacity and flexibility to accommodate large aircrafts. A glassed-in island forest with access to the outdoors, an immersive digital experience, and a multi-faith prayer room, yoga and quiet room coupled with best-in-class shopping and dining options will enhance the experience for passengers.

Art and architecture are designed to showcase the best of British Columbia, with themes of land, sea, and sky as well as Indigenous culture.

A heat recovery system helps circulate air and reduce heating and cooling demands within the building, maximizing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. To ensure the new space is accessible for everyone, YVR will introduce changing place washrooms, which are equipped with an overhead hoist system and height-adjustable adult-sized changing benches. This is in addition to a nursing room for parents and two animal relief areas.

Escalator art

“Opening the Pier D expansion is a milestone that we’re particularly proud of. This beautiful space reflects our unique sense of place, our commitment to reconciliation, and who we are as an airport,” said Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO at Vancouver Airport Authority.

“The new Pier D will also result in many significant benefits for our community and the economy that supports it – helping us connect more travellers and airlines to more destinations while supporting local jobs, businesses, and economic activity for our region…”

Pier D was initially part of the airport’s multi-year capital program and was maintained as a priority through the pandemic to ensure capacity for continued connectivity and growth, and to strengthen YVR’s position as a diverse global hub.

Construction began in December 2017. After a short pause due to impacts of the global pandemic, the project was completed in January 2021. With increased demand, the expanded Pier D opened for arrivals, only as needed, in November 2021. A British Airways A380, flying from Vancouver to London, marked the start of full operations for both arrivals and departures from Pier D’s new gates on June 2.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Westin Hotels & Resorts Docks in the Port City of Yokohama

 800 600 wttc2
By:
The Westin Yokohama
Lobby Lounge
Miyuki Kaneko (Nacasa & Partners
The Westin Yokohama
Spa Pool
Miyuki Kaneko (Nacasa & Partners

Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today unveils the latest opening in Japan – The Westin Yokohama. Owned by Sekisui House, Ltd., the 373-room new hotel is set to be the city’s haven of well-being and deliver industry-leading wellness experiences designed to empower guests to be the best version of themselves.

“We are thrilled to expand the brand’s footprint in Japan with the opening of The Westin Yokohama,” said Jennifer Connell, Global Brand Leader, Westin Hotels & Resorts and Vice President, Distinctive Premium Brands, Marriott International. “As the global hospitality leader in well-being for more than a decade, Westin continues to evolve and deliver its signature wellness programs to adapt to the needs of the modern traveler. The Westin Yokohama debuts as a haven of renewal, offering guests and locals a distinct experience in Japan’s new central business district and sought-after leisure destination.”

Located in the southwest of Tokyo, Yokohama is a key port in Japan – having evolved from a small fishing town to a modern and inspiring city, as well as a commercial powerhouse in the country. The Westin Yokohama is strategically situated in the new central business district of Yokohama, Minato Mirai, offering easy access to popular sightseeing spots such as Japan’s largest Chinatown and the city’s renowned Sankeien Garden. The Tokyo Haneda Airport is within a 25-minute drive and Tokyo city centre is within a 36-minute train ride from the new hotel, making it easily accessible from other regional and international destinations.

Designed by leading architecture and design firm G.A. Design of London, The Westin Yokohama design draws inspiration from the concept of biophilia, which is built on the premise that a connection to nature enhances well-being. Inspired by the hotel’s unique location with a modern residential feel, the hotel incorporates elements that reflect Yokohama’s longstanding history as a port city and its local culture. Setting the scene upon the first-floor arrival area, guests are welcomed into a tranquil urban oasis with the gentle sounds of running water, while the natural stone and timber accented with steel and metal reflect a sense of the destination. Situated on the 23rd floor with stunning views towards Mount Fuji, the lobby features a soaring indoor garden with lighting representing sunlight streaming through trees, as an expression of the Japanese philosophy of “shinrin yoku”, also known as forest bathing. In the heart of the lobby, the feature fireplace evokes a gracious sense of homecoming.

The hotel experience comes to life through the brand’s six pillars of well-being – Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well – allowing guests to personalize their stay and engage in programming that best meets their needs. The 373 guestrooms feature the brand’s iconic Heavenly® Bed and are thoughtfully designed with natural materials and imagery, including leaf-shaped illuminations that cast nature-inspired shadows on the ceiling to create a sensory experience. Wide, floor-to-ceiling windows frame the cityscapes of Yokohama, creating greater connections with the hotel’s surroundings. The sleek bathrooms are fitted with Heavenly® Bath rain showers, the brand’s signature White Tea aloe bath amenities, extra-large bath towels, and plush bathrobes to help guests feel rejuvenated.

Inspired by the brand’s Eat Well pillar, the hotel’s five food and beverage outlets contribute to guests’ overall well-being by offering an array of seasonal and international cuisine with a “locally grown and consumed” approach, exemplifying the hotel’s commitment to sustainability. Brasserie du Quai is an all-day dining restaurant inspired by French seaside towns, serving seasonal classical dishes such as Pâté de Campagne and Rilettes. Kissui-sen is a contemporary izakaya-style restaurant with decor and a menu that artfully balances simplicity and exquisite taste, showcasing the finest produce from Japan’s seas, rivers, fields, and forests. Complete with a private dining venue for intimate events, Iron Bay is the hotel’s signature restaurant that offers a menu with all-things perfectly grilled to order. Guests can enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences with chefs grilling succulent meats, fresh seafood, and farm-to-table vegetables and fruits, all sourced from Yokohama and its surrounding regions on an open fire grill. Located in the hotel lobby with a picturesque backdrop of Mount Fuji and Yokohama city, Sugar Merchant serves an array of coffees and teas, including artisanal Kanagawa herbal infusions along with a selection of delicate pastries. At the hotel’s speakeasy bar, Code Bar, guests can explore a remarkable range of craft cocktails and artisanal mocktails inspired by the different areas in Japan and named according to their postal codes.

The hotel features a dedicated wellness floor of over 10,000 square feet, with comprehensive facilities including Japan’s first Heavenly Spa by Westin™ with four treatment rooms and expert therapists offering an extensive menu of relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatments.

Guests looking to stay fit while traveling can make use of the heated indoor swimming pool and the brand’s state-of-the-art WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio with TRX training equipment, all designed to empower guests to get active, and recharge their body and mind. As part of the brand’s signature Move Well pillar, a local RunWESTIN® program provides jogging maps that offer a choice of either a three or five-mile scenic route around the futuristic Minatomirai waterfront area.

The Westin Yokohama offers more than 11,000 square feet of contemporary indoor and outdoor event space including a nearly 5,000 square foot Grand Ballroom and four meeting spaces to host events for any special occasion. The Westin Garden is a signature outdoor event space surrounded by lush green and with the backdrop of the city’s skyline, making it one of the city’s most scenic venues.

“With its inspiring location, sustainable dining, and array of wellness amenities, The Westin Yokohama is an urban oasis perfectly suited to health-conscious business and leisure travelers visiting this wonderful city,” said Richard Suter, General Manager of The Westin Yokohama. “We look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy the brand’s signature well-being experiences during their stay.”

The Westin Yokohama will participate in Marriott Bonvoy – the award-winning travel program from Marriott International – allowing members to earn and redeem points for their stay at the new hotel, and at other hotels and resorts across Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of brands. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.

To explore more, please visit Westin Yokohama.

About Westin® Hotels & Resorts
Westin Hotels & Resorts, hospitality’s global leader in well-being for more than a decade, empowers guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through the brand’s Six Pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. At more than 230 hotels and resorts in nearly 40 countries and territories, guests can experience wellness offerings that include the brand’s iconic and award-winning Heavenly® Bed, TRX fitness equipment in the signature WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studios, delicious and nutritious menu offerings on their Eat Well menu, and more. Stay connected to Westin on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Westin 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 Marriott Bonvoy.

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. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit Marriott Bonvoy.

Media Contacts

James Bardwell
Global Communications, Westin Hotels & Resorts
James.Bardwell@marriott.com

Cynthia Lai
Premium and Select Service Brands Communications, Asia Pacific
Cynthia.hc.lai@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Sets Path Towards New Tourism Governance with Jeddah Call to Action

 500 304 wttc2
By:

 

UNWTO Sets Path Towards New Tourism Governance - TRAVELINDEXJeddah, Saudi Arabia, June 10, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Public and private leaders have been called on to unite behind the Jeddah Call to Action, a commitment to align with UNWTO’s approach to rethink tourism governance at every level to keep adapting to the challenges faced by tourism as a global driver for recovery.

On the back of the 116th session of its Executive Council, held in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, UNWTO set down a marker for the future of global tourism. With the pandemic having showed the systemic vulnerabilities of the sector, the United Nations specialized agency called for the construction of a new and reimagined system of governance and financing with the aim of building resilience against future shocks while also making tourism more sustainable.

Now is the time to think big. Realize tourism’s unique potential to drive recovery, provide opportunity and build resilience, through better and stronger governance and focusing on jobs, training and education

Governance and visibility

In Jeddah, UNWTO continued with its tradition of complementing the important deliberations of its Executive Council with an open discussion on the biggest challenges and opportunities for the sector. The Forum “Tourism Futures – New Governance and Advocacy”, featured two distinct sessions – “Towards a New Tourism Governance” and “Raising Tourism’s Visibility” outside of the sector.

“Now is the time to think big”, said the UNWTO Secretary-General welcoming delegates and speakers. Zurab Pololikashvili stressed the need to “realize tourism’s unique potential to drive recovery, provide opportunity and build resilience, through better and stronger governance and focusing on jobs, training and education”.

His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, commented: “We cannot recover backwards. Now is the time to capitalize on this heightened recognition and to position tourism as an essential pillar of transformation, development and opportunity.” The Minister also reiterated the Kingdom’s plans to invest US$100 million in training 100,000 young tourism workers.

Diverse voices around a shared goal

Illustrating the diversity of UNWTO’s Membership, the high-level Thematic Debate featured contributions from Ahmed bin Aqil Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism Saudi Arabia, Siandou Fofana, Minister of Tourism and Recreation Côte d’Ivoire, Carlos Peguero, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Dominican Republic, Tomohiro Kaneko, Vice Commissioner of the Japanese Tourism Agency, Najib Balala, Minister of Tourism of Kenya, Sofia Zacharaki, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Greece, and Tonči Glavina, State Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, Croatia.

Similarly highlighting the broadness of the sector and UNWTO’s reach of influence, the Ministers were joined by high-level representatives from business, destinations, media and communications, namely from Euronews, Ms. Sofia Panayiotaki from PRM Global, Interbrand, Netcom, Amadeus and the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGGA). Referencing the shared desire to get tourism moving again, Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of the DGDA, noted, “We may not share the same ideology, we may not share the same theology, but we share the same biology”, highlighting a universal desire to travel and connect with other cultures.

Providing the perspective from the media, Ruth Wright, Head of Tourism and Lifestyle Verticals at Euronews stressed that viewers still demand certainty as the “perception amongst travellers is definitely still that travel is difficult and stressful.” As a result, content focused on rules and regulations remains relevant, even as human-led tourism stories becomes more popular. “Travellers are yearning to get back to the day when travel was fun, carefree and full of unexpected surprises,” she added.

From Jeddah to the world

With the discussions emphasizing the importance of taking a whole-government approach to tourism policy, with finance and interior ministries also part of the sector’s governance, Secretary-General Pololikashvili urged participants and all UNWTO Executive Council members advance this important agenda for positive change.

The Jeddah Call to Action recognizes the vital need for more and better tourism governance, with targeted investments and a focus on building resilience, advancing sustainability and expanding education and training. It forms part of UNWTO’s wider work ensuring the recognition of tourism reflects the sector’s unique social and economic importance, including through making it a key part of the work of the United Nations and securing the cooperation of governments, international organizations and financial institutions.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO: European Tourism Leaders Meet as Sector Restarts

 500 279 wttc2
By:

 

UNWTO European Tourism Leaders Meet as Sector Restarts - TRAVELINDEXYerevan, Armenia, Jun 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The European Member States of UNWTO have highlighted the importance of jobs, professional training and sustainability and innovation as they jointly guide the recovery of tourism across the region.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

The 67th meeting of the UNWTO Commission for Europe (Yerevan, Armenia, 1-3 June 2022) convened as the restart of European tourism gathered pace. Of the 47 countries in the world that have lifted all restrictions on travel, 31 are in Europe. Against this backdrop, Member States looked to the future to address both short-term challenges and longer-term opportunities for tourism to grow as a driver of sustainable and inclusive development.

High-level representatives from 35 Members States and many representatives of the European and global tourism private sectors were given an overview of UNWTO’s work in the region since the last Regional Commission meeting in Athens in June 2021.

Political recognition

From the start of the pandemic and into the recovery phase of the crisis, Europe has led by example in supporting and restarting tourism

Opening the session, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Hambardzum Matevosyan called tourism a “locomotive” for recovery and opportunity, both in Europe and globally. With Armenia celebrating 25 years as a UNWTO Member State, Mr Matevosyan commended the Organization’s work in bridging the public and private sectors and making tourism a pillar of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili met personally with the President of Armenia Vahagn Khachaturyan with the Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Ararat Mirzooyan, acknowledging their leadership and support for tourism and discussing ways in which UNWTO can further support the country as it grows its tourism in size and significance, with a focus on investments and on rural development.

Also opening the session were the Minister of the Economy for Armenia, Vahan Kerobyan, and Sofia Zacharaki, Deputy Minister of Tourism of Greece and current Chair of the UNWTO Regional Commission. Ms Zacharaki also commended UNWTO’s leadership through the crisis and stressed that the determination to restart tourism for economic recovery “must not outweigh our efforts to become more sustainable”.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “From the start of the pandemic and into the recovery phase of the crisis, Europe has led by example in supporting and restarting tourism. At the heart of this has been cooperation and coordination, the same spirit that must lead all European destinations forward as they use the power of tourism to drive development and growth for all.”

Ms. Sisian Boghossian, Chair of the Tourism Committee of the Ministry of Economy emphasised: “Armenia reasserts its commitment to effective cooperation with all UNWTO member states to achieve the joint goals aimed at implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Tourism is a priority sector of the economy in Armenia which is not only defined in the Law on Tourism but also expressed in the political agenda and included in the Government´s program”.

Delivering results

The Secretary-General provided an updated overview of the latest international tourism data and trends and made clear how even in challenging times, UNWTO advanced its priority areas of work, with a focus on boosting tourism investments, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, tourism jobs and education and accelerating sustainability.

UNWTO Regional Director for Europe, Alessandra Priante, highlighted current initiatives and future regional implementation of the UNWTO programme of work, stressing the importance of fostering the successful methodology of cooperation with and within the most visited region in the world: Europe. She pointed out the landmark projects focused on youth, with the first Global Youth Tourism Summit to be hosted in Sorrento, Italy, the Students’ Leagues in the various European countries and on rural development, with the 2nd edition of the World’s Best Tourism Villages following the great succusses of the initiative in 2021, and UNWTO’s technical assistance projects supporting tourism recovery to grow back sustainably and responsibly were further highlights.

As part of the high-level policy discussion, delegates highlighted the need to balance short-term measures for enabling a swift recovery of tourism, notably addressing workforce shortages, making jobs more attractive and retaining the right talent with sustainability imperatives, including measurement, investing in tourism education, and capacity-building.

Tourism and Rural Development

On the occasion of the Commission Meeting, UNWTO and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), with the support of the government of Armenia, partnered to set the stage for a discussion about tourism’s role in rural development and how to build bigger synergies between agriculture and tourism.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

With a special focus on design thinking to enhance local experiences and add value to destinations, gastronomy and wine tourism, the event highlighted the need to work on infrastructure, governance, product development, collaboration frameworks, quality and market access, digitalization and capacity building. Counting on the participation of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the conference highlighted the value of intellectual property to protect and value of local products and processes. The event closed with a Masterclass on Gastronomy Tourism to support knowledge building and capacity for Members States and stakeholders in Armenia.

Members of the region unanimously agreed to have Bulgaria host the 68th session of the UNWTO Regional Commission in 2023.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Wilderness Safaris Supports Giraffe Conservation Research

 500 297 wttc2
By:

Wilderness Safaris Supports Giraffe Conservation Research - TRAVELINDEXHwange National Park, Zimbabwe, June 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / With giraffe populations declining throughout Africa, Wilderness Safaris is delighted to be supporting the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) in Hwange National Park (HNP) with crucial field research. Wilderness Zambezi Ecologist, Innocent Mabika, used his local knowledge and expertise to assist with an initial survey in April 2022, during which a total of 2 671 individual giraffe observations were recorded over two weeks of data collection across the company’s private wilderness area in the park.

In just over three decades, giraffe numbers have dropped by almost 30% to approximately 117 000 remaining in the wild. In Zimbabwe, the GCF surveys found similar trends, with giraffe populations having declined by more than 50% during the same period, and by more than 20% in HNP over the past decade. These are alarming statistics for such an iconic African species. The biggest threat currently to the species is habitat loss. The GCF and its partners are working to secure and increase current giraffe numbers throughout Africa.

The survey was mostly conducted around Ngamo Plains, an area surrounded by camelthorn trees, which are favoured by browsing giraffe. Data was also collected around Back Pans, Wexcau, the concession’s airstrip and two waterholes.

The April HNP surveys focused on observations of the population dynamics of giraffes across various habitats. Data was also collected on their dietary preferences and was compared to how much favoured browse was available to the animals. This was determined by conducting 12 vegetation transects across different habitats in Wilderness’ area. The animals’ activities were also observed and recorded, to determine how much time was spent on each activity, at what time of day, and how external factors such as temperature, habitat type and herd size affected this activity.

63 population-dynamics observations were recorded. Initial data suggest that giraffe herds in HNP tend to be smaller in less favourable habitats, where resources are harder to come by, with larger herds found in favourable habitats. Around the Ngamo Pans area in HNP, with its many camelthorn trees and abundant water, the giraffes formed particularly large herds, often with more than 20 animals. It was also observed that different herds of giraffes would merge together at the Ngamo Pans to drink water, feed and interact, then split up and move off in different directions. Giraffe do not form stable herds and make use of fission-fusion dynamics, which is the separation and reuniting of smaller groups in a larger social network. This allows giraffes to adapt their herd size in response to environmental challenges.

916 dietary preference observations were made in the survey, indicating a strong partiality to specific tree species which make up the majority of the giraffes’ diet in HNP. Four – Dichrostachys cinerea (sicklebush), Diospyros lycioides (bluebush), Faidherbia albida (ana tree) and Vachellia erioloba (camelthorn) – contributed to more than 60% of the giraffes’ diet during the late rainy season.

1692 activity observations were confirmed. Giraffes have an extremely large body mass and spend a lot of time browsing to satisfy their nutritional requirements. Initial results indicate that they feed more actively in the early mornings and late afternoons, when temperatures are moderate. As temperatures rise during the day, giraffes become less active and spend more time ruminating in the shade of a tree. Interestingly, they seemed to favour a specific time of day to frequent the watering holes. The majority of these trips were done at midday, between noon and 2pm, and lasted up to an hour, with the animals drinking every few minutes. As predators are more active at night, especially around watering points, giraffes are most likely utilising the waterholes at this time as it is safer.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News