Global Travel News

JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo Makes Its Mindful Debut

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JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo Exterior

JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announces the exciting opening of the first Marriott International luxury hotel in Brazil’s largest metropolis with JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo. Acting as a haven for travelers to one of the busiest business centers in the bustling city, JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo will bring the brand’s mindful principals to travelers seeking a stay that nourishes the mind, body and spirit.

“JW Marriott offers guests a legacy of luxury hospitality combined with principles of mindfulness that are integral to today’s business and leisure traveler,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott.” Located in the country’s largest city, leisure and business travelers seeking an urban retreat will find a modern, luxurious and wellness-focused setting at the new JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo.”

The hotel welcomes travelers with 258 stylishly appointed guest rooms and suites featuring contemporary architecture and sleek, custom-made furnishings alongside best-in-class entertainment systems. Locals and guests alike can sip refreshing libations crafted using garden-fresh ingredients at Bar Caju before savoring globally inspired cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere at Italian restaurant Neto. Visitors can indulge in a therapeutic treatment at the spa enjoy a refreshing swim in the all-season pool and ensure an invigorating start to the day with a workout at a state-of-the-art fitness center.

“We are excited to expand Marriott’s presence in Brazil with the opening of the stunning JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo, our first luxury hotel in the city. The arrival of JW Marriott in São Paulo reinforces our commitment and vision for the region and will complement our existing offering with a renowned, global luxury brand known for catering to sophisticated, mindful travelers seeking the anticipatory service for which JW Marriott is known.” said Brian King, Marriott International’s President in the Caribbean and Latin America.

Inspired Design
JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo was conceived after extensive research on Brazilian architecture, landscaping, craftsmanship and natural resources, to prioritize national materials in its construction. Renowned, U.S.-based architecture firm HKS, Inc. developed and brought to life the bespoke design elements found throughout the hotel’s public spaces, guest rooms and suites. The expertly manicured landscaping was designed by architect Sérgio Santana, who prioritized native trees from the Atlantic Forest and plants from the natural biome to attract birds and native animals.

When entering the lobby, guests can admire a captivating custom installation incorporating fiber optics and crystals, reminiscent of a starry sky, along with exclusive artwork created by renowned Brazilian artist Burle Marx and São Paulo painter and designer Antonio Malta.

“JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo is an oasis in the heart of the city. The property will offer programs that encourage its guests to take care of the mind, nourish the body and revitalize the soul. In addition, the hotel seeks to redefine the concept of luxury in this metropolis, with world-class services, loyalty to the local culture, providing a welcome respite from the concrete jungle that surrounds it,” said Rosana Okamoto, General Manager, JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo.

Subtle touches that provide for moments of respite and reflection such as an artfully designed installation that showcases a gentle flow cascading water as a nod to the nearby waterfront. A curated selection of artwork crafted by renowned Brazilian artists is spotlighted throughout the thoughtfully designed public spaces, guest rooms and suites.

Immersive Culinary Experiences
Neto was conceived as an Italian restaurant in the city of São Paulo, not exclusive to hotel guests, but open to all visitors. The idea is that both guests and travelers can mingle in the large two-story hall, which features Brazilian wood and marble detail, reminiscent of the diversity of the state of São Paulo. The kitchen, headed by Chef Ícaro Rizzo, mixes Italian techniques with local and fresh ingredients abundant in São Paulo, to help revisit classic dishes. The space will be open from Monday to Sunday.

Bar Caju is the centerpiece of the hotel’s lobby and invites locals and visitors to try refreshing drinks inspired by classic cocktails made with traditional Brazilian ingredients.

Replenished Spirits, Meaningful Connections
The hotel spa spotlights contemporary design elements combined with a color palette of soothing earth tones, natural textures, and plush furnishings. Guests will discover 10 tranquil treatment rooms ranging in size from 100 square feet for individuals, to the couple’s room at more than 200 square feet, all evoking peace and repose. Skilled providers offer an indulgent menu of therapies incorporating indigenous fruits and flowers, each crafted to renew body and mind. The hotel also features a modern, fully equipped fitness center with a private yoga room, indoor-outdoor pool and steam room.

Bespoke Events and Celebrations
JW Marriott Hotel São Paulo houses a fully equipped Convention Center with more than 10,000 square feet of space. The expansive venue has six private rooms with large windows that receive natural light where one can see the lush nature preserve nearby.

Marriott International currently operates ten properties in Brazil and more than 300 in the Caribbean and Latin American region.

For more information and to reserve, please click here.

For high-resolution images, please click here.

Credit: Marriott International, Inc.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Manoela Barcellos
PR Manager, Brazil
Marriott International
manoela.barcellos@marriott.com
+55 21 999144-7473

About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travellers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott 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.

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. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. 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 marriottbonvoy.com.

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Celebrating Mother’s Day Around Asia

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Celebrating Mother’s Day Around Asia - TRAVELINDEXFrom indulgent spa therapies to special stay packages that the whole family can enjoy (and we mean multiple generations), we’ve rounded up a range of Mother’s Day offers from around Asia that might just make the perfect gift this May.   

Slowing Down at Fusion Resort Phu Quoc
This Mother’s Day Fusion Resort Phu Quoc is taking things slow – really slow. To mark the special day on the tropical island mothers and their children are invited to take part in a Slow Bike Race, where the winner is whoever takes the longest to cross the finish line. Riders can enjoy ocean views as the pace of the race comes almost to a standstill. The winners will receive a free adult and kids beverage. Later in the evening, the all-villa resort property is offering a Seafood Date Night by the pool with a multi-course meal and wine being served up for VND 2,800,000 ++ (USD 122++) for two. The highlight of the feast is a seafood platter with grilled red snapper in banana leaf, king prawns, calamari, scallops, and oysters. 

Afternoon Tea Beside a Moat at Palace Hotel Tokyo
For an impressive treat this Mother’s Day book a table for the hotel’s ever-popular afternoon tea at The Palace Lounge. Though many hotels invoke the majesty of the word palace, few can claim such palatial trappings as a moat. The Palace can.The property’s regal waterside setting can be enjoyed on Grand Kitchen’s outdoor terrace, or through the floor to ceiling windows of The Palace Lounge while enjoying high tea. The springtime selection features dishes like blanc manger made with steamed turnip, bitter field mustard flowers sauced with grainy mustard, and the subtle texture of bamboo shoots steamed with rice, along with an array of sweet treats – all artfully presented in an elegant, three-tiered jyubako lacquered box. The Spring Afternoon Tea set is JPY6,200 or JPY8,800 if you’d like to add a glass of champagne. For further indulgence the hotel’s evian SPA, is currently offering Mother’s Day Gift certificates (JPY27,000) for a 75-minute facial and eye care treatment using warew, a premium Japanese beauty brand, that uses natural botanical ingredients, grown in Japan since ancient times. Mothers will be gifted a warew gift set of trial size bottles on the day of their appointment. 

​​Alma Resort Cam Ranh
Thirty-hectare beachfront resort Alma on Vietnam’s scenic Cam Ranh peninsula is offering a two-night getaway suited to multigenerational travel in celebration of Mother’s Day this year. Priced at 30,432,000 VND (USD 1330), the Mother’s Day offer is anchored by a stay from May 6-8 for up to seven adults and two children in a contemporary three-bedroom ocean view pavilion with a private pool and terrace affording vistas of Long Beach. With a spacious living room and four bathrooms, the pavilion totals 224sqm and is designed to accommodate family members across the entire age spectrum, spanning two, three and even four generations. A welcome cake on arrival, daily breakfast, a buffet lunch, dinner at one of Alma’s restaurants, such as beachfront restaurant Atlantis that specializes in fresh seafood and Italian fine-dining restaurant La Casa, and a 20 per cent discount on additional F&B and treatments at Le Spa are among the getaway’s inclusions. Activities such as making Vietnamese fresh spring rolls at Atlantis, taking family photos at street-style venue Chill’s Snack & Bar featuring American-style food trucks, watching movies under the stars at Alma’s Amphitheater and more are also on offer to pay tribute to mothers. For further information,  call +84 258 399 1666.

A Dining Treat for Mother in Phnom Penh
The culinary team at Raffles Hotel Le Royal have taken some of the tastiest recipes handed down from their mothers to compile a special menu that will run all week. From May 2 – 6, reserve a table for two for either lunch or dinner, and your mother will receive a free Lillet cocktail to complement her dining experience. Or, from May 2- 8, at the new Le Phnom 1929 restaurant in the hotel’s west wing, an Afternoon Tea set will be available, which will include a complimentary bottle of Prosecco for all mothers. And on May 8, there’s a Swim n’ Brunch event at Le Royal’s iconic poolside,where from 11am- 3pm families can choose from that same menu of mother-inspired recipes, as well as BBQ, cocktails and Champagne. In the evenings during Mother’s Day week, the hotel’s Elephant Bar will be in a festive mood with live music. Dance the night away at the Mojo Afterworks party, which will include a selection of tapas and oysters, as well as special Ladies Night drinks. For reservations, call +855 23 981 888

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Steamed Sticky Rice with Crab Meat at Wah Lok Carlton Bangkok

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Bangkok, Thailand, May 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit unveils Steamed Sticky Rice with Crab Meat as Dish of the Month for May and June.

Large chunks of crab meat on steamed sticky rice with minced pork in a lotus leaf is a quintessential Cantonese style dish. Our interpretation uses Wah Lok’s original seasoning recipe alongside premium ingredients. The fragrance from the steamed lotus leaf adds a refreshing and sweet aroma to a flavourful dish.

Available at Wah Lok in May and June
Only THB 420++

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant
Level 2, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit
Tuesday – Sunday (closed on Mondays)
Lunch: 11:30 am – 2:30 pm
Dinner: 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm

For more information or reservations, please contact us at 02 090 7888

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

HOW TIME FLIES: 15 years. Who said it wouldn’t last?

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On May 1st, 2007 Travel Industry Today published its first issue. It was a rush job. After leaving my former position the previous December, I had considered my options over a winter vacation in Miami and decided to create my own travel trade publication. So, by January 2007, I had a pretty clear idea of what I wanted – and what I thought the industry would appreciate. An online publication, that was easy to access, easy to navigate, with interesting, pertinent articles, editorial and opinions. Seven to 10 articles a day seemed appropriate for busy travel professionals and – important to me – it would be delivered early each weekday morning.

Obviously I couldn’t do it alone – I needed sales and distribution help which was initially provided by Lorol Nielsen and Allen Krause, and I am indebted to Vicki Borenstein for invaluable insight, advice and support that continues to this day.

Allen Booth was then, and remains still, the creative technical wizard behind the website. Without his patience, experience, counsel and good humour – especially at plaintive and/or hysterical calls and emails – it would all have been over long ago.

We also needed advertising partners, Sunwing was my first call, and Colin and Stephen Hunter have been loyal supporters of Travel Industry Today from its inception – a confidence that was very much appreciated. Our thanks for very early support also go to Stephanie Bishop at Globus, Bruce Hodge at Goway, and to Sunquest, Tour East, Destination Quebec, Transat, Visit Britain, SeaWorld and WestJet.

I’m leaving people out, I know I am, and apologise if I’ve missed you – but this was the mainstay group 15 years ago!

They got us kicked us off to a good start and more came along quickly. My thanks and deep appreciation to every supplier who has faith and confidence in Travel Industry Today.

I needed help with the writing, and to my surprise and gratification several talented writers agreed to provide weekly, twice monthly or monthly columns. This gave the publication some diverse opinions and varied content.

Everything ran along smoothly, we had a good reputation, our readership was on the rise and suppliers were happy to work with us.

And readers … whether they agreed or disagreed with our opinions – stayed steady. And when they didn’t like what we said – we heard about it. They weren’t shy to take us on – and we loved that. Best of all – they keep reading.

Along with her column, Pam Fiamelli took on extra duties as Lifestyles Editor adding new roles in writing, editing and production. Bernadette Fernandes came aboard to assist with production and handle distribution.

Things at Travel Industry Today were still pretty hectic, I was covering most events, conferences (home and away), or fams myself in addition to all the other bits and pieces that go along with a daily publication. I needed help and it arrived in the nick of time.

TAH DAH!

Michael Baginski agreed to cover the IPW in Colorado for Travel Industry Today. There was no learning curve needed, no instructions required, he’d done it all before – many many times. I’d known Mike for years, covered events with him, travelled with him, (learned how to play pool from him) and knew that he would be perfect. And he was.

The fit was a good one. Back from Denver, Mike agreed to take on the title of ‘Editor at Large’ and immediately became an invaluable part of the company. It quickly became evident that he could play a major role and in 2018 he accepted an offer to formalize his position and become a partner in Travel Industry Today.

And just as well, in 2019 the company housing our servers had a massive failure and overnight Travel Industry Today was silenced. We immediately explained the situation to readers and suppliers and with the unstinting help of Allen Booth and Mike’s son Brendan Baginski – who helped recover huge amounts of content – incredibly we were back up with a brand-new site within two weeks.

Regardless, it wasn’t a really great year – no sooner were we up and running than the pandemic arrived. It quickly became apparent that this was no ordinary set of circumstances. With sales revenue dropping we were forced to cut writers and staff, and Mike and I essentially handled all writing and admin. Given the various mandates, events and actual travel, ground to a halt – but Zoom meetings zoomed to the forefront and everyone was careful to dress well from the waist up.

Now, as the pandemic fades, or the waves become less threatening, the industry finally moves ahead. Of course, there is still a long way to go and there have been a lot of changes along the way. Still, we’re on your screens every morning keeping you aware of all that is going on and hopefully doing so in a reasonably interesting, entertaining – and not too annoying – manner.

So, thank you readers, thank you advertisers, thank you to all the writers who have contributed over the last 15 years. You are all part of what makes Travel Industry Today the success it is.

One last note. My initial intention was to call the publication Travel Trade Today. I thought carefully about acronyms or abbreviations. Then the day before we were to publish – April 30, 2007, I received a call from a lawyer at a US publication called Travel Trade. He advised me that we could not use the name or they would sue. I noted that they did not have the name registered (we did) they did not have a website under that name (we did) but I just didn’t want to start off with legal stuff hanging over us. I quickly changed the ‘Trade’ to ‘Industry.’ Travel Industry Today was good to go.

The next morning when our first issue landed on the screens of travel professionals across the country – my first email came from Paul Larcher –  just two words: “TIT’S UP!”

Thanks to the writers, columnists and consultants who got us through 15 years.

 

 

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: April 25-29

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WestJet and Transat are now codeshare partners; Air Canada financials confirm that travel recovery is “underway,” as does the WTTC, which says a “hot summer” is ahead (for travel, not weather, though that too may be true); the deadline for the Canada Recovery Hiring program is approaching; and TICO has a new toolkit.

NEWS

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is forecasting a “hot summer ahead” for travel thanks to a major increase in global international flight bookings for key destinations across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas as international travel takes off. Countries leading the ranking of top 20 best performing destinations for the summer, according to leading travel and analytics company ForwardKeys, are Costa Rica, Aruba, Dominican Republic, and Jamaica.

As social distancing restrictions ease at varying rates across Canada, major cities across the country are poised for economic recovery according to new research from The Conference Board of Canada. Combined with an increase in travel and tourism, high vaccination rates across the country should help most cities’ economies and employment return to pre-pandemic levels in 2022.

WAR

The Russian Federation has been suspended from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), losing with immediate effect its rights and privileges as part of the United Nations specialized agency.

AGENCIES

ACTA is reminding agencies that they may qualify for the federal Canada Recovery Hiring Program, and that the deadline to apply is May 7. The program supports businesses experiencing sufficient recovery to hire employees or increase hours of work of existing employees. Applications to the CRHP are made through the same system as the THRP. For more information, click HERE.

Citing a survey that suggests that consumers expect to learn about the consumer protection available to them from the company they are booking with, the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) has launched an easy-to-use digital Registrant Toolkit with shareable resources that speak to the value of booking with a TICO-registered business. The online resource, which users can download or share includes consumer protection overview PDF in 16 languages; logos; social media posts; blog posts, and videos. All the resources speak to the consumer protection benefits of booking with a TICO-registered company. Download the toolkit HERE.

BORDERS

Visitors to Thailand who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus will no longer need to undergo any test or quarantine on arrival starting today (May 1). Under the new rules, unvaccinated travellers will still have to provide proof of negative results from a RT-PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival and all visitors still must register with an online “Thailand Pass” system and provide proof of health insurance with coverage of at least $10,000 for COVID-19 treatment.

Similarly, Malaysia has lifted most COVID restrictions, most notably dropping the requirement for fully vaccinated travellers and children under 12 to test prior to and upon arrival.

BY THE NUMBERS

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is reporting that more than one million travellers (1,053,523) entered the country April 11-17, the first time that travel volumes have been this high since the start of the pandemic two years ago.

RE-OPENING/RE-START

The first large cruise ship of the season arrived in Alaska last week with the call of the Norwegian Bliss in Juneau. The visit marks start of what industry and tourism officials expect will be a more robust travel year after two pandemic-stunted seasons.

At the same time, after two years of suspended service due to COVID-related travel restrictions, Great Lakes cruises returned to the Port of Toronto with the arrival of Viking Octantis on April 29. This year promises to be the biggest year yet with 40 ships scheduled to call in the Ontario capital.

AIR

Air Transat and WestJet have launched a new transatlantic codeshare. On May 4, Air Transat’s “TS” code will be activated on select WestJet flights, and from that date Air Transat will also offer itineraries connecting select WestJet flights with Air Transat European destinations. WestJet’s “WS” code is also now activated for sale on select Air Transat operated flights to/from France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, and Croatia. Connections via Montreal and Toronto are now available for flight dates beginning May 17.

Low-cost air carrier Swoop says it will be suspending service between Winnipeg and Toronto this as of June 20. Travellers also have the option to re-book on an available WestJet flight.

Despite reporting a first-quarter loss of nearly a billion dollars, Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau says year-over-year improvement in the airline’s results is clear evidence that a recovery is underway. The airline said it lost $974 million in the first three months of 2022 compared with a loss of $1.30 billion a year earlier, but that its revenue more than tripled.

Canada Jetlines has selected Allianz Global Assistance as an exclusive partner in travel assistance and insurance. The partnership follows Canada Jetlines’ unveiling of its first aircraft along with the announcement of Toronto Pearson International Airport (GTAA) as the airline’s travel hub. First flights are expected in July.

DEALS

Venice is visited on Collette’s “Italian Vistas” tour

Savings up to 20%, equivalent to $1,000 p.p., are being offered by Collette on 2022-23 tour dates booked through May 6 for travel through April 30, 2023. Offer code SPRINGSAVE must be used at time of booking.

Until May 15, clients booking an Air Canada Vacations Flight & Cruise package with Celebrity Cruises for travel until Dec. 31, 2022, will receive flight credits of $500 per couple. The offer is applicable to the first and second passenger showed as $250 off per person. The flight credit is applicable to the base fare in economy or business before surcharges, charges, taxes, fees, port charges. (Read on to ‘Incentives’ for ACV’s concurrent ‘Agents at Sea Contest”).

TOURS

The very first Choice Touring by Globus itinerary in Europe was launched last week with the departure of ‘The Alps Out Loud: Switzerland & Lake Como by Design’ tour. The new touring style, developed during the COVID shutdown, features unique itineraries that are “smaller, more connected and more fun,” says Stéphanie Bishop, Canadian managing director for the Globus family of brands, who adds that “tour participants can choose from a menu of options while bonding with small groups of like-minded people.” The first Choice Touring launch in North America, “Boogie & Blues: The Southern US By Design,” will take place May 15. In all there are 13 new tours to choose from.

HOTELS

Through the Kind Traveller Give + Get platform, hotel guests in Fort Myers, Fla. making a minimum US$10 donation to the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) can access exclusive rates and perks with curated Kind Hotels in area. The entire donation goes to CROW, creating a win for the traveller, the charity, the destination, and the hotel. Participating hotels include Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina on Fort Myers Beach; DiamondHead Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach; and the Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village in Cape Coral. For info, visit kindtraveler.com.

The first hotel in Greece to receive LEED green certification, Moxy Athens City, has opened it doors with over 200 tech-savvy guestrooms that have walk-in showers, LED lighting and smart technology. The hotel is located by Stadiou Street, near to the Acropolis and Parthenon to the picturesque neighbourhood of Plaka and a short walk from Syntagma Square and the shops and restaurants of Ermou Street.

RESORTS

Now open on the Dominican Republic’s northern coast is Marriott Bonvoy’s The Ocean Club, a Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Norte. The intimate resort features 64 spacious suites, ranging from one to three bedrooms and five multi-tiered four-bedroom penthouses. Amenities include a secluded beach with private wooden cabanas and beach service, three pools, two of which are adult-only, and beachfront whirlpools with firepits. The property also features a dedicated marina and helipad to arrive by boat or helicopter.

Port of Spain is home to a new hotel, The Brix, Autograph Collection, named after the chemical measurement of sugar in solution – a crop with deep historical, financial, and cultural meaning for the islands of Trinidad and Tobago. Nestled in St. Anns on the outskirts of the busy Trinidad capital, the hotel is minutes away from the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Magnificent Seven Buildings, and the Emperor Valley Zoo, and is within driving distance of the heart of city centre.

CRUISE

Noting that over 7.5 million passengers having already sailed in nearly 90 markets since the resumption of cruising, CLIA is forecasting that as the industry resumes operations, passenger volume is expected to recover and surpass 2019 levels by the end of 2023, with passenger volumes projected to recover 12% above pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2026.

First came Scarlet Lady, a name chosen to honour one of Virgin Atlantic’s flagship aircrafts. Next were Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady, two sister ships with names that celebrate women’s strong, fierce, and independent spirits. With all three ships in the water by the end of this summer, Virgin Voyages has revealed the name of the fourth Lady Ship in its the fleet: Brilliant Lady – a moniker meant to represent “smart, thoughtful, boundary-pushing minds of women around the world, unafraid of owning their intelligence, aware of their importance, and confidently in touch with their own sense of self worth.” The ship’s itineraries will be announced soon.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival runs through June 5, featuring hundreds of thousands of brilliant flowers blooming throughout the park. This year features several new larger-than-life “Mosaicultures” floral sculptures. Guests at the Pigeon Ford, Tenn., attraction will be greeted by a stunning visual upon arrival, as hundreds of colourful umbrellas are suspended above the Showstreet entryway to create a dazzling “Umbrella Sky.” Additionally, a wide array of culinary creations await guests’ taste buds with a menu full of items inspired by springtime in the Smokies.

INCENTIVES & FAMS

Agents booking a Celebrity Cruises vacation package with Air Canada Vacations by May 15 have a chance win their own Flight & Cruise package for two, including balcony stateroom, classic beverage package, basic WIFI, and gratuities, on a sailing to Alaska or the Caribbean taken by Dec. 31,2022. More bookings (for travel this year) mean more entries. The winner will be announced on May 23. Details on the ‘Agents at Sea Contest’ are available in your ACV travel account online.

In honour of travel advisor appreciation month in May, agents will earn $50 toward Collette’s “Travel Advisor Appreciation Booking Incentive” program by securing two or more bookings for travel in 2022. The top three agents who secure the most bookings in May will also earn cash prizes: $1,000 for first place; $750 for second place; $500 for third place. All bookings must be for travel in 2022.

EVENTS

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) is inviting travel advisors to ‘An Evening With Jamaica’ at private screenings of the James Bond feature film, “No Time to Die,” which was partially filmed on the island. The evenings will include a destination update from the JTB, and hospitality. For dates and locations (including Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Montreal and the GTA) and to register, click HERE.

A series of regional online travel agent Masterclass sessions by Sandals and Beaches Resorts continues. Upcoming live two-hour sessions take place from 10 a.m. to noon (local times) as follows: Atlantic Canada and English Quebec – May 4; French Quebec – May 10; BC – May 11; Saskatchewan – May 18; Manitoba – May 24; Ontario – June 2 and 8, Aug. 10 and 26; and Alberta – Aug. 16. Register with your BDM or by calling 1-800-545-8283. Participants will qualify to maintain their Certified Sandals Specialist status.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

TRAVELSAVERS has welcomed back Marylene Lupien as Director, Business Development, responsible for the growth, retention, and engagement of licensees in Quebec. Based in Montreal, she will work closely with TRAVELSAVERS’ other business analysts, Elizabeth Grundon and Deborah Girard, as the company continues its focus on assisting affiliates to build their businesses.

VoX International has announced its status as an officially Rainbow Registered organization. The Toronto-based destination marketing and PR firm says it is committed to inclusivity in all aspects of the travel industry and pledges to further adopt inclusive business practices moving forward. VoX recognizes the value of the LGBTQ+ traveller and believes there is a strong obligation to promote and encourage inclusivity.

DESTINATIONS
Visit Israel and Visit Dubai combined for an evening of information and fun for the trade in Toronto on April 26, continuing Israel’s creative regional cross-promotional initiative that most recently included Greece. Among those on hand for the event were (photo, l-r) Dubai’s Natalie Scott and Soroya Al Olama, and Toronto-based Israeli tourism execs Gal Hana and Fiona Kosman.

US states are making up for lost time in Canada, with travel trade missions coming fast and furious. Among them is VISIT FLORIDA, which called in Toronto and Montreal last week for multiple trade events, including an evening at Ripley’s Aquarium and a trade show/dinner at the Hotel X in Toronto. Participants included Disney, St. Pete-Clearwater, the Palm Beaches, Kissimmee, Fort Myers, Discover Crystal River, Kennedy Space Centre, Orlando, Naples/Marco Island, Central Florida, and Tampa Bay. In 2019, more than 4 million Canadians visited Florida, a total the state hopes to achieve again soon with travel restrictions now lifted between Canada and the US.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism Surpasses 500 Signatories

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Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism Surpasses 500 Signatories - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, May 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The number of signatories to the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism has passed the 500-mark, just four months after the landmark initiative was launched at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26, November 2021). Today, and coinciding with International Mother Earth Day, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has announced that Expedia Group, Booking Holdings and Condé Nast have become the latest signatories, joining stakeholders of all sizes and from every part of the diverse sector.

The signatures of three of the sector’s biggest names underscores tourism’s determination to accelerating climate action at every level and reflects the shared commitment of both big businesses and small stakeholders to work towards a common goal. All signatories of the Glasgow Declaration commit to the decarbonization of tourism operations and to restore and protect ecosystems, helping visitors and host communities experience better balance with nature. “Rebalancing our relationship with nature is critical to regenerating both its ecological health and our personal, social and economic well-being”, the Declaration states.

Cross-sector commitment

The 538 signatories of the Glasgow Declaration include all types of stakeholders, among them DRV German Travel Association, Tanzania Association of Tour Operators, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, PATA and Hostelling International; tour operators as EXO Travel, and Europa Mundo Vacaciones; accommodation providers such as The Cayuga Collection; DMOs such as Turismo de Portugal, Turisme de Barcelona, West Sweden Tourist Board, London & Partners, Destination Québec Cité and many more. All adhere to the guiding principle of restoring nature as a “key to our sector’s recovery from the pandemic, as well as its future prosperity and resilience”.

Tourism must prosper in harmony with nature, and the number and variety of businesses, destinations and other organizations signing up to the ambitious Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action shows our sector is committed to doing better.

UNWTO: “Time to Act”

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “It is time to act. Tourism must prosper in harmony with nature, and the number and variety of businesses, destinations and other organizations signing up to the ambitious Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action shows our sector is committed to doing better. I am delighted to welcome Expedia Group, Booking Holdings and Condé Nast as the newest signatories.”

Collaboration across stakeholders is key to ensure that the necessary skills, tools and knowledge are available among service providers, host communities and tourists so that they can deliver change. Among the priorities of the Glasgow Declaration for 2022 is to deliver guidance on measurement of emissions and climate action planning with support from working groups.

“The need to address the damaging effects of climate change has become more urgent than ever before, which is why our Climate Action Plan includes ambitious targets, based on the latest scientific guidance, to achieve near-zero emissions for our own operations by 2030, and net-zero by 2040,” said Glenn Fogel, Chief Executive Officer of Booking Holdings. “Committing to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and Net Zero Standard, and now signing the Glasgow Declaration, is critical to ensure that climate action is supporting science and the Paris Agreement to change the trajectory of the current crisis.”

“We are proud to become a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration for Climate Action in Tourism as part of a concerted effort with our partners and peers to progress a more sustainable travel industry,” said Peter Kern, CEO and Vice Chairman, Expedia Group. “As a travel company, we have the privilege of bringing people all around the world together every day. And as more people travel, we also have a responsibility to shift towards more sustainable operations to lessen our overall footprint and equip our travelers with sustainable options that match their values. We’re enhancing the visibility travelers have into their impact and offering more responsible choices. The industry must work together to help safeguard the future of travel for generations to come.”

About the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism

The Glasgow Declaration was launched at the UN Climate Change Conference COP26. It is a voluntary commitment which requests organizations to support halving emissions by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050 at the latest; to deliver climate action plans (or update existing plans) within 12 months from becoming signatories and implement them; to align their plans with five pathways, namely: measure, decarbonize, regenerate, collaborate and finance; to report publicly on progress made implementing those commitments; and to work on a collaborative spirit.

The Glasgow Declaration is led by UNWTO in collaboration with the Travel Foundation and within the framework of the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme.

About the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme

The One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme aims to accelerate sustainable consumption and production (SCP) in tourism policies and practices to address the challenges of pollution, biodiversity loss and climate change. It promotes knowledge sharing and networking opportunities to define collective priorities and identify solutions. Under its umbrella, initiatives such as the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative and the Global Roadmap on Food Waste Reduction in Tourism are implemented.

The One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme is led by UNWTO, with the governments of France and Spain as co-leads and in collaboration with UNEP.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Michel Reybier Hospitality Buys Boutique Hotel L’Oscar London

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Michel Reybier Hospitality Buys Boutique Hotel L’Oscar London - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, April 30,2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The hotel group Michel Reybier Hospitality is taking over the exclusive boutique hotel L’Oscar London. The 39-room hotel, which was recently completely redesigned by the renowned architect Jacques Garcia, is Michel Reybier Hospitality’s first hotel outside France and Switzerland.

With L’Oscar London, Michel Reybier Hospitality is expanding its portfolio with another unique hotel in an attractive destination. Part of this property was once a Baptist Church and was built in 1856 in the Victorian style. Between 1901 and 1903 the building was extended to become the headquarters of the Baptist Church in England. The building is located on Southampton Row, nestled between Covent Garden and Bloomsbury, not far from the British Museum. The name L’oscar pays tribute to the world-famous writer Oscar Wilde. It ties into the literary and history of the area, as it was home to a group of associated writers, philosophers and artists including Virginia Woolf, E.M Forster and Lytton Strachey, known as the ‘Bloomsbury Set’.

Listed Grade II* and considered as a particularly important building of more than special interest in the United Kingdom, the hotel is not only the first of the group in London, but it was also the first time that the renowned architect Jacques Garcia created the interior design of a hotel in London. True to his style, the Frenchman lent the rooms opulence and, above all, atmosphere with a keen sense of history and attention to detail.

The boutique hotel, which opened in 2018, has 39 spacious rooms. From the Superior Room to the L’oscar Suite, each Garcia-designed room has its own unique charm, many with fireplaces and, of course, the latest technology.

The Baptist Bar is set in the former chapel, featuring an octagonal dome. One of the eye-catchers at L’oscar Restaurant is the illuminated onyx bar. The house, which is filled with many arts and craft treasures, also has a beautiful oak-lined library and The Committee Room, which is adorned with an original fireplace engraved with a scene from John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress, is perfect for smaller events.

About Michel Reybier Hospitality
For more than 20 years, Michel Reybier has been blazing the trail for a singular, highly contemporary vision of luxury and hospitality. In both Switzerland and France, each of the Michel Reybier Hospitality destinations upholds his cherished values of excellence, authenticity and simplicity. Whether in a hotel, a villa or a private apartment, in the mountains or by the sea, in the countryside, in the heart of the vineyards or in the city… A sole requirement: namely exceptional places that throb with a distinctive emotion. A sole ambition: to share a refined art of living, dedicated above all else to our guests’ well-being and pleasure. This holistic approach is based on unforgettable experiences, where sport, food, wellness and passion form an inseparable whole. This approach is supported by the medical expertise of Nescens, whose ultimate goal is to ensure people live better, healthier lives for as long as possible. The promise of instilling meaning into each and every moment.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Hotels to Launch First Mercure in Takayama

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Accor Hotels to Launch First Mercure in Takayama - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXTakayama, Japan, April 29, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Accor Hotels is set to welcome its first hotel in Takayama, Japan, with the signing of Mercure Hida Takayama. Inspired by the reinterpretation of Takayama’s traditional handicrafts, the hotel brings warmth and tranquil touches, enriched with modern hotel experiences allowing travellers to fully immerse in the destination. The hotel is set to open in December 2022.

Takayama is a city in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture. The famous Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are within convenient access by bus. Located in the heart of Takayama, the Sanmachi Historic District will transport travellers back to the Edo Period with its preserved wooden merchant houses and small museums. Local treats and original Sake breweries await to be discovered. The city is also famed for its biannual Takayama Festival, one of the most beautiful festivals to celebrate spring and fall.

Located in the heart of the city within a four-minute walk from Takayama JR Station, Mercure Hida Takayama offers 161 beautifully designed guestrooms and two dining experiences. The highlight facilities include the indoor and outdoor onsens on the top floor, which allow guests to unwind while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Takayama.

“Accor remains positive in Japan’s strong tourism potential and we are delighted to expand our network in the country to offer unique and authentic hotel experiences for local and international travellers. As one of the largest international operators in Japan, we are excited to be taking the Mercure brand into Takayama, a charming cultural destination. Mercure Hida Takayama will be a great showcase for a locally-inspired hotel, where the decorative design is rooted in authentic values. In partnership with Samty, we believe the hotel will become an exciting addition to the Japan hotel scene. Mercure Hida Takayama will offer travellers yet another breath-taking base to explore the beautiful experiences the city has to offer,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer, Accor Southeast Asia, Japan and South Korea.

Mercure, one of the world’s most expansive midscale brands, is locally inspired to reflect the distinct character and culture of each destination in which it resides, through design, dining and local experiences. Mercure believes that travel connects guests to the locality and people.

Accor currently operates 18 hotels across eight destinations in Japan. Mercure Hida Takayama will become the 7th Mercure hotel in Japan and will join a collection of over 810 Mercure addresses globally across 60 countries.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

VERY INTERESTING: Air Transat and Westjet launch Transatlantic codeshare

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Air Transat and WestJet have launched a new transatlantic codeshare. WestJet’s “WS” code is now activated for sale on select Air Transat operated flights to/from France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, and Croatia. Connections via Montreal and Toronto are now available for flight dates beginning May 17.

On May 4, Air Transat’s “TS” code will be activated on select WestJet flights, and from that date Air Transat will also offer itineraries connecting select WestJet flights with appealing Air Transat European destinations.

“We are very excited to launch this codeshare agreement with WestJet,” said Michèle Barre, Vice President, Network, Revenue Management and Pricing of Air Transat. “The complementarity of our respective networks allows us to offer more alternatives to our customers, providing them with a quality and affordable product. This partnership is part of Air Transat’s development strategy, enhancing our long-standing presence in the transatlantic market.”

“This new codeshare with Air Transat complements our growing global network, allowing WestJet to offer guests exciting new destinations in Europe,” said John Weatherill, Chief Commercial Officer, WestJet. “As our guests return to travel, these new options will connect North America and Europe in new ways and benefit guests on both sides of the Atlantic.”

With this new codeshare, travellers have more options for their transatlantic travel, with conveniences such as a single purchase for connecting flights, the ability to check in for all flights at their first departure, and baggage checked through to their final destination.

Once activated, both Air Transat and WestJet codeshare ticket sales will be available via the carriers’ websites and call centers, as well as via major GDS systems and travel agencies.

Subject to connectivity between their scheduled flights, Air Transat and WestJet will both offer the following transatlantic routings:

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

FOODIE ITALY:Italian Cooking Class (delivered in English) in the Le Marche region

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Let’s face it, vacations are all about the food; and there is only one true way to get to know a region’s food – you need to go there and eat the food amongst the people who cook it and eat it every day. That way its seasoned by the fertile lands and spirited traditions of the region.

Whilst planning a long-stay trip to Italy be sure to include at least one cooking class.

Finding a good Italian cooking class, delivered in English, can be a challenge. Which is where British expat, Chef Lucy Hayward, saw an opportunity and through Casa Lucia shares her love of food and culinary skills with English-speaking visitors.

Her ‘roaming cooking classes’, which operate in the general Le Marche region, could travel to your holiday villa, or you could drive out to the scenic Tolentino area and book a day in the kitchen of Casale delle Rondini, the B&B Experience that partners with Lucy.

Four eager (and hungry) students, ready to learn.

The day starts in a local open-air farmer’s market. Under the guidance of Chef Lucy, we learn what to look for when picking ingredients that are unspoilt, full of honesty and freshness, and comes from soil that hasn’t been messed with.

Armed with bulging paper bags, containing Aubergines (eggplant), tomatoes, herbs, spices, and some pasta flour, we head to a local kitchen for the day’s tuition. After the first Prosecco cork is popped, we began cleaning and preparing for the feast.

If you want hands-on training in traditional Italian cooking, this is it.

As all things should, the food prep began with dessert: Lavender panna cotta – the sort of dessert one might consider if angels were coming to dinner: a fragile mound of sweetened cream, speckled with edible lavender, and set with a single leaf of gelatin.

Lucy explains that the heart and soul of this recipe is the cream. “Don’t use anything less than the best as this provides the principal texture and flavour. I do like to buy Marchigiani cream where I can.” She explains too that you need just a little sugar, less than most recipes suggest.

Each of Italy’s regions boast a distinctive cuisine – Marche is known for their bold flavours.

With dessert still in mind, we continued and prepared Almond Cantuccini – the unmistakable diagonally cut, twice-baked biscuits – Italy’s best-known cookies – perfectly paired with a glass of vin santo. Lucy suggested we form the dough into small loaf shapes and bake them for around 20 minutes then, when slightly cooled, slice them, then bake for a second time, until dry.

With the panna cotta setting in the fridge, and the Cantuccini cooling on the oven racks, the focus shifts to Focaccia: a fragrant bread, topped with a handful of cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s a simple, classic Italian bread, served alongside pasta dishes. Today we married ours to a crispy Fennel & Orange salad.

With the kitchen filled with laughter, we move onto building an Aubergine Parmigiana. It’s a layered affair of eggplant, lavish handfuls of mozzarella and parmesan (every time I smell cheese like this, I get emotional) and plump tomatoes, baked in the oven.

Ingredients tend to end up in recipes for different reasons. Sometimes it’s because they come from the same part of the world. Like peppers, and tomatoes, things that grow in the same soil. It’s like they were always meant to share a pot. As was the case here.

A hands-on cooking class that has you making pasta.

For me, this was the one I feared most; the one I’d not master – making the pasta dough from scratch! It was surprisingly easy; all it took was ‘00’ flour, a couple of eggs and some wrist action for kneading. Then it was fed into a pasta machine, producing wafer thin sheets to create the Ravioli.

Lucy asserted herself: “I need to be able to read the newspaper through those pasta sheets.”

Using an obscure object, Ravioli shapes were cut out, then filled with roasted butternut, crumbed ricotta, nutmeg, later dressed in browned butter oozing with sage, and walnuts, then sprinkled with grated parmesan. The filling was light on the cheese, and heavy on the butternut, making them healthy, with a sweet-savory flavor that perfectly complements the sage butter sauce.

Lucy explained that cooking the pasta needs the water to be just simmering – boiling water will tear or break the pasta; it’s also easier to ascertain when the pasta is perfectly cooked.

Dining at a table groaning under the weight of an Italian banquet.

The day-long cooking marathon finished in the late afternoon. We gathered at the table where aromas hovered above the plates. We drank wine, chatted, laughed, and feasted on the essence of Italy.

When the Ravioli appeared, a hush descended on the table. I placed the first circle of Ravioli on my tongue; al dente, just how it should be. I lifted my tongue to the roof of my mouth and felt the Ravioli flavors merge and melt. I could tell the ingredients had spent sufficient time together to get to know one another. It was a perfect parcel of butternut, ricotta, nutmeg, and sage butter sauce.

This was where my love affair with Italian food began. It was a religious experience, central heating for my soul, love at first bite, catnip even. I drew it out for as long as I could as I knew I would never get to taste Ravioli like this again. Ever.

When we parted company, we did so with embraces, promises to stay in touch, food to take home, and the recipes of all we’d cooked.

By special arrangement, Lucy can create a bespoke menu for an Italian cooking class at your holiday villa in the Le March region. Alternatively, request attendance at a class hosted by Casale delle Rondini, a gorgeous B&B that collaborate with Lucy’s cooking school.

Cooking class rates €150 per person.
www.casalucia.org

About Lucy:
Although Lucy now lives and works in Italy, her heritage is Polish. Her love of food was born at the knee of her Polish grandmother and mother, who cooked what in Italy is referred to as ‘cucina povera’ the cooking of the poor or peasant. It’s a cooking style which focuses using every morsel, and has one re-evaluate what gets binned – like the outer leaves of a cabbage or cauliflower. Sliced thinly and tossed in olive oil and a drizzle of butter, salt, and pepper, delivers a punchy and tasty side dish, or a more substantial meal if mixed with other veggies. All this from something most of us would throw out, or at best, feed to the chickens.

This love of maximizing food value is evident throughout the Le Marche region. This, alongside the quality of local produce and attending numerous cookery schools, is what convinced Lucy to move to Italy. A real ‘dream come true’.

Where to sleep

The village of Tolentino (Le Marche region) is just 30 minutes from both the famed Sibillini mountains and the beautiful Adriatic coast. Here, surrounded by rolling green hills, you’ll find Casale delle Rondini, an elegant 2-bedroomed B&B, which also has a private apartment. The double rooms are tastefully restored to their terracotta and pastel rustic roots. Complete with spacious ensuite bathrooms, the establishment has all the whistles and bells for 21st century living.

Other than birdsong, there is no noise and peaceful tranquility as there are few people in the area. Yet we are close enough to the ancient cities for day trips.

Start the day with a substantial Continental breakfast in the gazebo, taking in the views across the manicured garden, the swimming pool, and the mountain villages beyond. Your hosts Francesco and Robert will suggest places to visit and advise about the best restaurants suited to your palate.

Room rates €120 ($162) per night
info@oliviotree.com
Instagram: casaledellerondinitolentino

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News