Global Travel News

China President Xi Opens Davos Agenda with Call for Greater Global Cooperation

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China President Xi Opens Davos Agenda with Call for Greater Global Cooperation - TRAVELINDEXGeneva, Switzerland, January 20, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / President Xi Jinping of China called for stronger international cooperation in overcoming shared global challenges including defeating COVID-19, revitalizing the economy and addressing climate change, in the opening session of the World Economic Forum’s virtual event, the Davos Agenda 2022.

Xi outlined that the international community is still locked in a tenacious battle against what he called “a once-in-a-century pandemic”. Calling for greater global cooperation, he said: “The fight against the pandemic is proving to be a protracted one. COVID-19 is resurging with different variants and spreading faster than before. He added that shifting blame will only cause delays in response.”

Speaking in a special address to business, government and civil society leaders taking part in the week-long virtual event, he laid out a three-pronged approach to safeguard people’s health. First, countries need to strengthen active cooperation on research and development of medicines. Second, leaders need to build multiple lines of defence against the coronavirus. Third, countries need to fully leverage vaccines by ensuring equitable distribution, boosting vaccination rates and closing the global immunization gap.

Xi said that China is doing its part, having already sent more than 2 billion doses of vaccines to more than 120 countries and international organizations, to be closely followed by at least another 1 billion doses.

As the world emerges from the depths of pandemic gloom, Xi cautioned that several risks threaten to derail economic recovery, including disruptions in global supply chains, tight energy supply and rising commodity prices. He said: “If major economies take a U-turn in their monetary policies, there would be serious negative spillovers which will challenge global economic and financial stability.”

To fully unleash the vitality of the world economy, he also called for less protectionism, especially on trade. Economic globalization is an unstoppable trend which will not veer off course, he said, despite counter-currents along the way: “We should remove barriers, not erect walls. We should open up, not close off. We should seek integration, not de-couple.”

Xi highlighted China’s reform path. He pointed out that China’s domestic growth in 2021 hovered around a healthy 8% annually, with the country achieving its dual target of high growth with low inflation. Nevertheless, he also said Chinese leaders are aware of the further work necessary to achieve prosperity that benefits all people. “We remain committed to reform and opening up,” he said. “A rising tide indeed lifts all boats.”

On climate change, the Chinese president said that China stands ready to help the international community realize the UN 2030 agenda for sustainable development and to achieve carbon neutrality in the long term. He outlined that China would honour its word to achieve carbon peaking by 2030 followed by specific industry plans towards carbon neutrality. Xi pointed out that China has the world’s biggest carbon market and clean energy capability.

Xi also cautioned that “weaponizing economic, scientific and technological issues will gravely undercut international efforts to tackle common challenges”. He said: “Developed countries should take the lead in honouring their emission reductions, deliver on their commitment to financial and technological support and create conditions for developing countries to address climate change,” he added.

Klaus Schwab, the World Economic Forum’s Founder and Executive Chairman, thanked China for taking an active part in collaborative global efforts to combat shared challenges. “The year 2022 will provide a unique opportunity for global leaders to work jointly towards a more inclusive, more sustainable and more prosperous world,” Schwab said. “We must unite despite the different views we hold; ultimately we belong to a single global humanity whose fate is increasingly interconnected.”

About The Davos Agenda 2022
For over 50 years, the World Economic Forum has been the international organization for public-private cooperation. The Davos Agenda 2022 is the focal point at the start of the year for leaders to share their outlook, insights and plans relating to the most urgent global issues. The meeting will provide a platform to accelerate the partnerships needed to tackle shared challenges and shape a more sustainable and inclusive future.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cross Hotels and Resorts Launched Cross Collection

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Cross Hotels and Resorts Launched Cross Collection - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 20, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Striding into the new year, Cross Hotels & Resorts, Asia-Pacific’s leading creator of inspired hospitality solutions, is pleased to announce it has reached a major milestone with the launch of Cross Collection, a blend of stylish resorts and city hotels in first-tier tourist and business destinations. An amalgamation of unique properties throughout Asia Pacific, Cross Collection is a hospitality network for all.

The freshly inked deals mark the beginning of a new chapter for Cross Hotels & Resorts as it continues to add to its impressive portfolio of boutique properties with Haven’t Met Bangkok Silom and Itz Time Hua Hin Pool Villa. Haven’t Met Bangkok By Cross Collection is located in the central business district and offers 72 contemporary guest rooms, a rooftop swimming pool and access to the Skytrain via Chong NonSi BTS Station, which makes it a compelling choice for the new generation of travellers who seek excitement, convenience and value for money.

Meanwhile, Itz Time Hua Hin Pool Villa By Cross Collection is a stunning residential-style resort in the coastal town of Hua Hin that features 16 three-bedroom Pool Villas ranging in size from 279–440sqm, making them the perfect choice for private weekday staycations or weekend family getaways. Appealing to Cross Hotels & Resorts’ aficionados of young, independent travellers and ideal for corporate events, the resort offers the ultimate escape in exceptionally appointed villas.

Commenting on the thrilling developments, Harry Thaliwal, CEO of Cross Hotels & Resorts, said: “Cross Collection is our white-label branding solution for independent hotels and I’m proud to welcome Sincere Capital Land Co., Ltd to our family. It’s our entrepreneurial approach that allows us to push traditional hospitality boundaries and offer partners very workable solutions that elevate their businesses to a higher level. We give owners the opportunity to belong to a strong, international brand with a global distribution network that’s continually growing. I’m confident the future is going to be a bright one for our partners, so watch this space!”

Building on Cross Hotels & Resorts’ Uniquely Yours approach, the new properties share the same corporate vision of providing guests with unforgettable experiences through their passion for hospitality. This hunger to go the extra mile is fundamental to the success of Cross Hotels & Resorts as the company is relentlessly committed to excellence.

“We have complete trust and confidence in Cross Hotels & Resorts, in its brands and in the global distribution, which is backed by Flight Centre Travel Group. We are honoured to become part of Cross Collection as we have our own story to tell and we want to bring it to life. With Cross Collection we can be us,” said Chayaphon Hunrungroj, Owner of Sincere Capital Land Co., Ltd.

Cross Hotels & Resorts current portfolio includes more than 23 hotels under five distinct brands – Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Lumen and Cross Collection – across Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and Japan.

About Cross Hotels & Resorts
Cross Hotels & Resorts is an international hotel management company wholly owned by the ASX listed Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG). FCTG is one of the world’s largest and progressive travel companies, incorporating diverse worldwide distribution, in destination travel experiences such as transport and touring as well as hotel management solutions. Cross Hotels & Resorts also delivers owner services all the way from the very early sourcing and planning stages of a development, through technical services during build, to pre-opening services and finally professional ongoing hotel management.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Love-themed Afternoon Tea at Tuxedo Espresso Bar, Carlton Hotel Bangkok

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Love-themed Afternoon Tea at Tuxedo Espresso Bar, Carlton Hotel Bangkok - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Tuxedo Espresso Bar at Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit kicks off the new year with a love-themed Love at First Bite Afternoon Tea.

This Afternoon Tea features elements of Valentine’s Day and shades of pink. Chocolate, rose, strawberry and raspberry are the key ingredients of this afternoon tea.

The Tuxedo Garance is the main highlight in a medley of nine items in this tea. It is a union of raspberry gel, strawberry mousse, rose infusion and green tea from Okinawa, Japan.

Rekindle your love and celebrate Valentine’s Day early this year with our afternoon tea.

Two options available:

THB 1,380++ per set for 2 persons including a pot of TWG Loose Tea or Coffee of your choice
THB 1,680++ per set for 2 persons including two glasses of sparkling wine

Four distinctive items of this afternoon tea are also available as “Dessert of the month”, as part of the a la carte menu:

• Cherry Bossa THB 210++
• Tuxedo Garance THB 400++
• Heart THB 200++
• Strawberry Lemonade Tart THB 220++

Afternoon Tea available daily at Tuxedo Espresso Bar
Date: 17 January – 31 March 2022.
Time: 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm

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

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Azerai Can Tho Launches Private Pool Villas

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Azerai Can Tho Launches Private Pool Villas - TRAVELINDEXCan Tho, Vietnam, January 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As travelers around the world look to turn the page on the pandemic, one thing is becoming increasingly clear – space is now the ultimate luxury.

With this in mind, Azerai Can Tho has launched one- and two-bedroom private pool villas to complement the resort’s existing three-, four- and five-bedroom villas, offering exclusive and private new accommodation options for groups of all sizes, from couples to extended families.

“These one- and two-bedroom private pool villas open the door to a whole new class of traveler seeking an enhanced sense of seclusion and exclusivity,” said General Manager Nicolas Pillet.

The resort’s villas range from 636sqm (Pool Villas) to 784sqm (River Pool Villa) to an expansive 1,583 sqm (Mekong Pool Villa), offering guests abundant privacy along with other unique benefits, such as dedicated villa hosts who can help to personalize the experience.

And, of course, villa guests have access to all of the resort’s other world-class amenities and culinary offerings, in addition to private luxury boat cruises in the Mekong Delta, lavish picnics under the resort’s mature banyan trees and other local excursions and activities.

Three hours by car from Ho Chi Minh City, Azerai Can Tho is situated on a private islet in the Mekong Delta that’s accessible only by boat. The resort’s lush grounds cover more than eight hectares and support 60 rooms in addition to the five private pool villas that deliver residential-style accommodation.

Designed by French-Canadian architect Pascal Trahan, the villas at Azerai Can Tho embrace the resort’s tropical surroundings, with sliding-glass doors in most rooms able to open up significantly to draw in outdoor breezes.

The interiors feature a blend of stone, slate, light-coloured woods and rattan accents, with pitched ceilings that expand an overall sense of spaciousness. The locally sourced woods and stones were sourced in Vietnam by a Scandinavian design firm. The overarching aesthetic is sleek and minimalist.

The design signature in the pool villas is similar to that of Azerai Can Tho’s other guest rooms, featuring an understated elegance that is both practical and comfortable. Furniture and décor embrace neutral colour tones, and the exteriors have been designed to blend harmoniously with the tropical island setting.

Azerai Can Tho was named one of the “Top 25 Resorts in Asia” (No. 13) in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards earlier this year, becoming one of only six properties in Vietnam to make the popular annual “best-of” list. The awards are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry.

ABOUT AZERAI
Azerai is a new story and brand of resorts offering guests simple elegance, refined design and discreet and attentive service in places of unique beauty and cultural interest. The brand was formed by hotelier Adrian Zecha, and the name is derived from Zecha’s initials and the latter part of the Persian word caravanserai, which references the storied old inns of the Middle East.

Azerai Can Tho is a peaceful retreat set on a lush islet in the Mekong Delta. Azerai Ke Ga Bay marks the brand’s first oceanfront resort. And Azerai La Residence, Hue is a historic city resort overlooking the Perfume River in Vietnam’s former imperial capital.

 

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao Celebrates Opening

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Meliá Phuket Mai Khao Celebrates Opening - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, January 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, a wellness-inspired resort that fronts Phuket’s longest stretch of sand with a chilled-out beach club and private pool villas has opened on Thailand’s largest island.

The resort is the second five-star property to be launched in Thailand under Spanish hotel group Meliá Hotels International as part of a brand roll-out in key destinations across the Kingdom.

Situated on secluded Mai Khao beach, commanding eight acres of Phuket’s northwestern coastline on the Andaman Sea, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao opened its doors for business on December 1.

The 30-suite and 70-villa resort, owned by residential real estate developer Phuket Villa Group, is a 15-minute drive to Phuket International Airport and near an array of attractions including Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, Sirinat National Park, and Wat Phra Thong temple.

The resort’s design melds traditional and contemporary Thai aesthetics with a smattering of Mediterranean accents and uses a neutral palette of colours to complement Mai Khao’s sandy shoreline. High ceilings and decorative metal screens make the most of the natural surrounds and sunny, tropical weather.

GUEST SUITES AND VILLAS

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s contemporary, light-filled and spacious Mediterranean-inspired accommodations – with a focus on simple, clean lines and indoor-outdoor living – comprise 30 one-bedroom suites and 70 one-bedroom villas.

The resort has three accommodation categories. Each features a single bedroom and is differentiated by an anchoring amenity — be it an outdoor bathtub, a private plunge pool or a wellness arrangement.

All of the suites and villas feature outdoor bathtubs, open-air showers and outdoor terraces to take advantage of Phuket’s tropical climate, which averages 28 degrees Celsius year round. Exquisite gardens and fixtures such as white stucco exterior walls also ensure secluded enclaves and the utmost privacy.

The 78sqm suites are complemented by cabanas and the 85sqm one-bedroom villas have private plunge pools.

At the top of the accommodation scale, the 15 wellness villas each feature an open-air Vitamin C shower, ultrasonic essential oil diffuser, GermGuardian air purifier, Tempur-Pedic pillows, aromatic salts for the outdoor bathtub, a fit ball and yoga mat. A highlight of staying at a wellness villa is a daily 60-minute massage.

Mod-cons in all of the accommodations include individually controlled air-conditioning, 43-inch LCD TV with satellite channels, Bluetooth speaker, Nespresso coffee maker and gourmet capsules and more.

The minibar has healthy snacks such as energy bars on request. Trays and tissue boxes made from banana leaves are among sustainable items in the suites and villas.

DINING

The resort’s diverse dining landscape comprises four outlets under the stewardship of culinary director Luca Mancini and adds a dash of Mediterranean flavor to Phuket’s culinary scene.

Adjacent to a beach pool framed with cabanas and sun lounges, the Gaia Beach Club celebrates Spain’s famed gastronomy by serving Mediterranean and fusion cuisine from an open kitchen and a creative cocktail selection from a long bar.

A warm and intimate setting adorned with timber finishes, SASA is an elegant all-day dining restaurant that specialises in international and Thai cuisine. SASA offers a healthy, freshly made breakfast and delectable Thai set lunches and dinners.

The Elyxr Café features a spacious lounge area with comfortable sofas and a selection of books and serves coffee and tea.

The Pool Bar is a swim-up affair at the centre of the resort that serves a range of refreshments including fresh juices, smoothies and cocktails.

SPA, WELLNESS AND RECREATION

Privately tucked away behind the lobby and Elyxr Café, Meliá’s signature YHI Spa is 300sqm and home to five treatment rooms. In addition to its extensive menu of massages, facials, body scrubs and wraps, spa therapists also provide poolside and in-villa treatments.

The resort will offer wellness packages that include healthy menus and freshly squeezed juices as well as activities such as meditation, yoga, and walks and cycling amid stunning natural scenery.

The fitness center is equipped with treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and weights machines. The kids club Kidsdom has workshops to keep youngsters entertained and the resort also provides a babysitting service. Recreational pursuits on offer range from horse riding on the beach, to scuba diving at Racha Yai, Koh Dok Mai, Phi Phi Island and Shark Point, to golf at the nearby Blue Canyon Country Club.

MICE FACILITIES

The resort’s conference facilities include a grand ballroom and two additional multi-function rooms at 231sqm. The Grand Ballroom totals 131sqm and caters to up to 100 guests for a standing cocktail reception or 88 guests for a sit-down dinner. The two adjacent multipurpose rooms are each 47sqm that seat up to 16 guests for a boardroom meeting.

The resort’s event planners provide customized catering to suit any occasion. Mini mindfulness sessions also enhance the wellbeing of attendees.

“Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s debut marks such an exciting time for Phuket, signaling our genuine optimism for the future of tourism on Thailand’s largest island,” said Mr Maetapong Upatising, Phuket Villa Group’s Managing Director.

“The team and I are thrilled we could bring such a significant hotel debut to fruition during these unprecedented times and we’re delighted with the interest in our resort so far despite the difficulties stemming from the global pandemic,” said Ms Magdalena Martorell, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s General Manager.

“With its distinct focus on guest wellbeing, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao brings Meliá’s sunny Spanish hospitality and passion for service to Phuket, as well as stringent health and safety measures to combat COVID-19,” said Mr Ignacio Martin, Area Managing Director South East Asia of Meliá Hotels International.

Elsewhere in Thailand, Meliá Koh Samui debuted in January 2020 with a nautical theme underscored by boat suites made from refurbished merchant vessels. Meliá Chiang Mai is slated to open in April 2022 with a rooftop bar featuring two bars connected by a glass bridge. INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, the first property of its brand in Thailand, with 176 guestrooms, is due to open 2023.

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao has launched a seven-night sandbox package priced from THB 38,500 (USD 1155) for direct bookings before March 24, 2022 for stays before March 31, 2022. The offer includes daily breakfast for two, a one-way airport transfer and 20% off food and beverage as well as laundry.

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá Hotels & Resorts is the best-known international brand in the portfolio of the Meliá Hotels International company; it has more than 100 city and resort hotels in the main leisure and business destinations of Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The brand offers exemplary meetings and events facilities in all important business cities as well as in exotic locations, catering to the ever-expanding conference and incentive travel market. As part of its innovation philosophy and new positioning, Meliá Hotels & Resorts has reinvented itself to cater to every aspect of the guests’ wellbeing. Unique experiences are created for guests and are defined by relaxation, quality time and personalised services. For a balanced lifestyle, Meliá Hotels & Resorts instinctively understands the guests’ needs and lifestyle expectations, which is an integral part of its redefined identity.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Meliá, ME by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá and TRYP by Wyndham. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe in 2020, according to the SAM Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal’s list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of “Europe’s Climate Leaders 2021” by Financial Times. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market index and it is the Spanish hotel leader in Corporate Reputation (Merco Ranking).

About Phuket Villa Group
Founded in 1989 in Phuket (Thailand), Phuket Villa Corporation, together with its affiliates, has constructed over 7,000 houses and condominium units all over Phuket and Bangkok. As one of the first developers in Phuket to include a wide range of lifestyle facilities within its developments, such as tennis courts and swimming pools, the Group offers detached homes, townhouses and commercial buildings, catering to the growing local real estate market. In addition, the Group also has two hotels under its banner, offering more than 300 rooms to tourists and business travellers, mirroring Phuket’s steady growth as a premier tourist destination of Thailand. Over the years, Phuket Villa Corporation continues to re-invent itself to cater to an increasingly diverse customer base in a more competitive landscape.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Metropole Hanoi Introduces New Sustainable Luxury Bath Amenities

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Metropole Hanoi Introduces New Sustainable Luxury Bath Amenities - TRAVELINDEXHanoi, Vietnam, January 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, in keeping with Accor’s global commitment to replace single-use bathroom amenities with eco-friendly alternatives, is introducing a new range of luxury bath products from French fashion house Balmain Paris.

New shower installations in guest rooms feature tamper-proof 400ml bottles of premium Balmain shampoo, conditioner and body wash. The dispensers and pumps are 100% recyclable. Other Balmain products provided to Metropole Hanoi guests include lotion, perfumed bar soap and hand cream. And premium accessories, including shower cap, vanity kit, sanitary bag, shoe shine, dental kit and shaving kit are also offered to in-house guests.

Metropole Hanoi is seeking to bring its distinctive style of “French luxuriousness” to life by partnering with creative, passionate and sophisticated French brands like Balmain Paris that embody a modern sense of art de vivre.

For nearly half a century, Balmain Hair, which is part of the Balmain Paris fashion label, has combined hair essentials with inspiration from the latest catwalk trends. Established in 1954, the quintessentially Parisian House of Balmain has managed to retain its unique position as both a historic French fashion house and as a trendsetting luxury brand that other fashion houses look to as a reference.

At Metropole Hanoi, the new bath amenities meet Accor’s worldwide sustainability goals under its corporate social responsibility initiative launched in 2011 known as Planet 21. In the past year, the hotel has implemented a number of projects focused on serving the local community in Hanoi, saving energy to fight climate change, and eliminating food waste.

Metropole Hanoi is phasing out all single-use plastic items throughout the guest experience. The hotel has attained “Platinum” level in Planet 21, the program’s highest rank. Other recent Planet 21 actions taken by the hotel include introducing eco-friendly towels and bedding, installing an urban vegetable garden, receiving power from a “green” electricity supply, reusing rainwater, offering organic and certified agro-ecology produce, and much more.

For more details on Accor’s Planet 21 initiative, click HERE.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

New Grecian Escape One&Only Aesthesis to Open in 2022

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New Grecian Escape One&Only Aesthesis to Open in 2022 - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXAthens, Greece, January 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Discover a paradise of Athenian elegance drenched in nostalgic mid-century glamour. Situated in 21-hectares of exclusive beachfront estate in Southern Athens, One&Only Aesthesis will be the new Grecian escape. Wrapped in ancient mythology in the heart of the Athenian Riviera, where lavender lands meet sapphire waters and our collection of rooms, suites and villas embody the timeless glamour of the Aegean.

• Discover Greece and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

Slated to open in late 2022, the One&Only Aesthesis gives travelers the best of both worlds: it’s located a short distance from bustling Athens and iconic sites such as the Acropolis while offering the relaxation and tranquility of a beachfront getaway.

Located on a sprawling coastal area in Southern Athens, just kilometers from the thriving city streets. Discover the natural thermal springs of Lake Vouliagmeni and the endless cove beaches bathed in ancient mythological landmarks. Transcend time in the eye of Greece, and allow your senses to come alive.

One&Only Aesthesis will offer 127 private rooms, breathtaking suites, and private villas designed to frame the enamoring natural beauty of the Grecian coastline. The architecture pays homage to mid-century design with high ceilings, woven leather, muted tones, and accent patterns that embody the inherent beauty of cosmopolitan Riviera.

Drenched in natural beauty, One&Only Aesthesis celebrates the ancient wonders of Athens. Lapped by secret waves, cloaked in flourishing greenery and just moments away from the vibrant metropolis of Athens, feel as if you are in your own private island, in the eye of Greece.

• Discover Greece and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

About One&Only
At home in the world’s most inspiring locations, hand-picked for exceptional beauty and unique cultural charm, One&Only Beach Resorts, Nature Resorts, Urban Resorts and Private Homes are havens of outstanding style and service that place you in the heart of every fascinating environment. From incredible, authentic cuisine, to unique tailored excursions, and spectacular spaces to simply be; unforgettable moments begin at One&Only. Hand-picked for exceptional natural beauty and cultural charm, be transported by our collection of exclusive resorts, located in unspoilt, breathtaking destinations across the globe.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UN Secretary-General Calls Private Sector to Help with Post-Pandemic Recovery

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UN Secretary-General Calls Private Sector to Help with Post-Pandemic Recovery - TRAVELINDEXGeneva, Switzerland, January 19, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / In a special address at the virtual World Economic Forum Davos Agenda 2022 on Monday, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres outlined three urgent areas that need to be addressed for the world to emerge from the ongoing global economic and health crisis and to ensure the UN Sustainable Development Goals are achieved.

“Recovery remains fragile and uneven amid the lingering pandemic, persistent labour market challenges, ongoing supply chain disruptions, rising inflation and looming debt traps,” he said. “To chart a new course, we need all hands on deck, especially the global business community.”

The first area that needs immediate attention is confronting the COVID-19 pandemic with equity and fairness. Citing the World Health Organization’s global target to vaccinate 40% of people in all countries by the end of 2021 and 70% by the middle of 2022, Guterres said the world is nowhere near these targets. “If we fail to vaccinate every person, we give rise to new variants that spread across borders and bring daily life and economies to a grinding halt,” he said.

To ensure vaccine equity, he called on countries and manufacturers to prioritize vaccine supply to the global programme COVAX and to support the local production of tests, vaccines and treatments around the world. He also asked pharmaceutical companies to stand in solidarity with developing countries by sharing licences, know-how and technology to find a way out of the pandemic.

The second challenge is the need to reform the global financial system, especially as low-income countries are at a huge disadvantage and are experiencing their slowest growth in a generation. “The burdens of record inflation, shrinking fiscal space, high interest rates and soaring energy and food prices are hitting every corner of the world and blocking recovery, especially in these low- and middle-income countries,” Guterres said. This is stifling any hope of growth by making it even more difficult for governments to invest in the sustainable and resilient systems.

He urged business leaders to help shape a global financial system that works for all countries. This includes working to restructure the long-term debt architecture, addressing corruption and illicit financial flows, ensuring that tax systems are fair and designed in a way that reduce inequalities, and bringing together governments, businesses, the financial sector and international financial institutions to build up private investment in developing countries.

Supporting climate action in developing countries is the third area that needs immediate attention, especially as global emissions are set to increase by 14% by 2030.

“Even if all developed countries kept their promises to drastically reduce emissions by 2030, global emissions would still be too high to keep the 1.5 degree Celsius goal within reach. We need a 45% reduction in global emissions this decade,” Guterres stressed.

Climate shocks, including extreme weather events, forced 30 million people to flee their homes in 2020 alone – three times more than those displaced by war and violence. And 1 billion children are at an extremely high risk of the impacts of climate change. “Turning this ship around will take immense willpower and ingenuity from governments and businesses alike, in every major-emitting nation,” he said. “We see a clear role for businesses and investors in supporting our net-zero goal.”

This, he said, calls for the creation of coalitions of government, public and private financial institutions, investment funds and companies with the technological know-how to provide targeted financial and technical support for every country that needs assistance.

The World Economic Forum’s Climate Action Platform is helping businesses, governments and NGOs accelerate and scale ambition and partnerships needed to drive a sustainable and inclusive future, and its Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders is engaging policy-makers to help deliver the transition to a net-zero economy.

Guterres concluded by saying that many countries need the support, ideas, financing and voice of the global business community.

“If we fail to provide debt relief and financing to developing countries, we create a lopsided recovery that can send an interconnected global economy into a tailspin,” he said. “If we fail to reduce inequalities, we weigh down economic progress for all people in all countries.”

About the Davos Agenda 2022
For over 50 years, the World Economic Forum has been the international organization for public-private cooperation. The Davos Agenda 2022 is the focal point at the start of the year for leaders to share their outlook, insights and plans relating to the most urgent global issues. The meeting will provide a platform to accelerate the partnerships needed to tackle shared challenges and shape a more sustainable and inclusive future.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO: Tourism Grows in 2021, Remains Far Below Pre-Pandemic Levels

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UNWTO: Tourism Grows in 2021, Remains Far Below Pre-Pandemic Levels - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, January 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Global tourism experienced a 4% upturn in 2021, compared to 2020 (415 million versus 400 million). However, international tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) were still 72% below the pre-pandemic year of 2019, according to preliminary estimates by UNWTO. This follows on from 2020, the worst year on record for tourism, when international arrivals decreased by 73%.

  • UNWTO reports 4% rise in international tourist arrivals in 2021
  • However, 2021 was another challenging year: arrivals still 72% down on pre-pandemic levels
  • Recovery needs stronger coordination and increased vaccination rates

The first 2022 issue of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer indicates that rising rates of vaccination, combined with easing of travel restrictions due to increased cross-border coordination and protocols, have all helped release pent up demand. International tourism rebounded moderately during the second half of 2021, with international arrivals down 62% in both the third and fourth quarters compared to  pre-pandemic levels. According to limited data, international arrivals in December were 65% below 2019 levels. The full impact of the Omicron variant and surge in COVID-19 cases is yet to be seen.

Slow and uneven recovery

The pace of recovery remains slow and uneven across world regions due to varying degrees of mobility restrictions, vaccination rates and traveler confidence. Europe and the Americas recorded the strongest results in 2021 compared to 2020 (+19% and +17% respectively), but still both 63% below pre-pandemic levels.

By subregion, the Caribbean saw the best performance (+63% above 2020, though 37% below 2019), with some destinations coming close to, or exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Southern Mediterranean Europe (+57%) and Central America (+54%) also enjoyed a significant rebound but remain 54% and 56% down on 2019 levels respectively. North America (+17%) and Central Eastern Europe (+18%) also climbed above 2020 levels.

Meanwhile, Africa saw a 12% increase in arrivals in 2021 compared to 2020, though this is still 74% below 2019. In the Middle East arrivals declined 24% compared to 2020 and 79% over 2019. In Asia and the Pacific arrivals were still 65% below 2020 levels and 94% when compared to pre-pandemic values as many destinations remained closed to non-essential travel.

Increased tourism spending

The economic contribution of tourism in 2021 (measured in tourism direct gross domestic product) is estimated at US$1.9 trillion, above the US$1.6 trillion in 2020, but still well below the pre-pandemic value of US$ 3.5 trillion. Export revenues from international tourism could exceed US$700 billion in 2021, a small improvement over 2020 due to higher spending per trip, but less than half the US$1.7 trillion recorded in 2019.

Average receipts per arrival are estimated to reach US$1,500 in 2021, up from US$1,300 in 2020. This is due to large pent-up savings and longer lengths of stay, as well as higher transport and accommodation prices. France and Belgium reported comparatively smaller declines in tourism expenditure with -37% and -28%, respectively over 2019. Saudi Arabia (-27%) and Qatar (-2%) also posted somewhat better results in 2021.

Outlook for 2022

According to the latest UNWTO Panel of Experts, most tourism professionals (61%) see better prospects for 2022. While 58% expect a rebound in 2022, mostly during the third quarter, an42% vs point to a potential rebound only in 2023. A majority of experts (64%) now expect international arrivals to return to 2019 levels only in 2024 or later, up from 45% in the September survey.

The UNWTO Confidence Index shows a slight decline in January-April 2022. A rapid and more widespread vaccination roll-out, followed by a major lifting of travel restrictions, and more coordination and clearer information on travel protocols, are the main factors identified by experts for the effective recovery of international tourism. UNWTO scenarios indicate that international tourist arrivals could grow by 30% to 78% as compared to 2021, However, this is still 50% to 63% below pre-pandemic levels.

The recent rise in COVID-19 cases and the Omicron variant are set to disrupt the recovery and affect confidence through early 2022 as some countries reintroduce travel bans and restrictions for certain markets. At the same time, the vaccination roll-out remains uneven and many destinations still have their borders completely closed, mostly in Asia and the Pacific. A challenging economic environment could put additional pressure on the effective recovery of international tourism, with the surge in oil prices, increase in inflation, potential rise in interest rates, high debt volumes and the continued disruption in supply chains. However, the ongoing tourism recovery in many markets, mostly in Europe and the Americas, coupled with the widespread vaccination rollout and a major coordinated lifting of travel restrictions, could help to restore consumer confidence and accelerate the recovery of international tourism in 2022.

While international tourism bounces back, domestic tourism continues to drive recovery of the sector in an increasing number of destinations, particularly those with large domestic markets. According to experts, domestic tourism and travel close to home, as well as open-air activities, nature-based products and rural tourism are among the major travel trends that will continue shaping tourism in 2022.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA to Launch New Net Zero Methodology for Hotels

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PATA to Launch New Net Zero Methodology for Hotels - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, January 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) in partnership with global hospitality, travel and tourism sector organisations released a new methodology to guide hotels on how to set a net zero pathway.

The Net Zero Methodology for Hotels provides detailed guidance on how hotels can approach the technical aspects of net zero, such as what should be included in Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions, milestones to be reached by target years such as 2025, 2030 and 2040, and how to approach decarbonization through renewable energy. The methodology also provides guidance on alignment with frameworks such as the Science Based Targets Initiative, Race to Zero and the Glasgow Declaration.

Graham Harper, PATA Sustainability and Social Responsibility Advisor, said, “We are delighted to have supported the development of this new Net Zero Methodology for Hotels. Although many parts of Asia are still suffering significantly from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, as we gradually reopen it is clear that sustainability is top of the agenda. This methodology will help hotel companies understand the steps they need to take to get on the path to net zero.”

The Methodology is authored by Greenview, a global sustainable hospitality consultancy, in partnership with PATA, Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency, Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). It was developed through a collaborative process with industry experts, including an Advisory Group of over 20 hotel companies, and after a wide stakeholder consultation.

Eric Ricaurte, Founder and CEO of Greenview said, “As more and more hotel companies make net zero commitments, it is important to document how the specific challenges faced by this sector should be addressed. All too often existing guidance relates to commercial real estate which does not take into account issues such as the particular owner / operator / franchisee relationships in hotels, ongoing changes in portfolio, or the differing status of renewable energy in countries around the world. The methodology provides comprehensive and detailed guidance on all the topics which will need to be addressed by a hotel owner or operator wishing to achieve net zero by 2050.”

“The methodology is not only for those in the hotel sector wishing to set a net zero pathway, but also aims to provide additional insights for the wider climate change and net zero community so that the specific challenges and opportunities faced by hotels can be better understood. Furthermore, as hotel stays are included in Scope 3 Business Travel for companies in all sectors wishing to achieve net zero, this methodology aims to provide a consistent approach to net zero for hotels which will support these ambitions.”

Jeremy Smith, founder of Tourism Declares, added, “We are seeing a great momentum now within the tourism and hospitality sector when it comes to net zero, with many commitments being made by companies large and small. The challenge now is how to realize those commitments and this methodology represents a critical tool in supporting actual progress being made. The challenge is significant, but by following the guidance set out in this methodology hotel companies can start to plot their own pathway, in a way which is aligned with global frameworks and, importantly, in line with climate science.”

Chris Imbsen, Director of Sustainability at WTTC, said, “At the COP 26 meeting in Glasgow in November last year, we launched our Net Zero Roadmap for the Travel & Tourism sector. In it we identified the opportunity for the hotel industry to decarbonize more quickly than some other industries in our sector, such as cruise and aviation, and this methodology provides the details which they can follow in order to achieve this.”

Patrick O’Meara, CEO of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said, “The Net Zero Methodology for Hotels is a significant innovation which will enable hotels to make credible and achievable net zero commitments. The Methodology helps hotels to set boundaries, to measure and report emissions in a consistent way, and to make appropriate use of carbon offsetting in the short to medium term. It will help those hotels who have yet to make significant progress to start immediately on their net zero journey. We are looking forward to reflecting the guidance set out in this methodology in our Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality which will be launched early next year.”

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its more than 650 member organisations, including 82 government, state and city tourism bodies, 14 international airlines and airports, 71 hospitality organisations and 75 educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has official offices or representation in Beijing and London.

About Greenview
Greenview is the world’s leading provider of sustainability programs and data management for the hospitality and tourism sector. We support companies to design, implement, and monitor their corporate responsibility and sustainability platforms to drive profitability, streamline data, keep ahead of trends, and provide effective communication for stakeholders. Headquartered in Singapore, with a global team of experts located in 7 countries, we manage the hospitality sector’s largest collaborative sustainability initiatives, including the Cornell Hotel Sustainability Benchmarking Index, and leverage the power of this network to synergize value to our clients across three pillars of activity: corporate consulting and advisory, Greenview Portal software (GSTC recognized), and collaborative industry initiatives.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News