Global Travel News

Meliá Koh Samui Launches Samui Test and Go Offer as Thailand Reopens

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Meliá Koh Samui Launches Samui Test and Go Offer as Thailand Reopens - HOTELWORLDS - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, February 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As Thailand reopens to international tourists, Meliá Koh Samui has introduced a getaway that pays tribute to the resort’s sandy shores, award-winning dining and host of recreational and wellness pursuits.

Overlooking Choeng Mon Beach on Koh Samui island’s north-eastern tip, the resort’s ‘Samui Test and Go’ offer is anchored by a stay in a Deluxe Room, Premium Pool Access Room or Boat Suite. Special room rates of THB 3,999++ (USD 121++), 4,999++ (USD 152++) and 5,999++ (USD 182++) per night respectively include daily breakfast for two.

The package marks the reintroduction of Thailand’s ‘Test and Go’ program that permits quarantine-free travel to the Kingdom for fully vaccinated travellers from any country worldwide.

Lauded among Thailand’s top 20 resorts in the Condé Nast Traveler 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards, the resort’s ‘Samui Test and Go’ also includes a 15% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages and round-trip transfer from Samui International Airport for minimum two-night bookings. Guests who book their first night at the resort receive a 10% discount for the fifth night. A 20% discount on accommodation applies for stays of at least five consecutive nights.

For an extra THB 1,500 (USD 45) nett per person per night, guests staying in a Premium Pool Access Room or Boat Suite will elevate their getaway with The Level’s bespoke privileges including access to the private executive lounge with all-day snacks and beverages. Afternoon tea and cocktails and canapes at The Level Lounge from 2.30 – 4.30pm and 5.30 – 7.30pm respectively, late check-out and a dedicated concierge service are among The Level’s many benefits.

Under Thailand’s ‘Test and Go’ program, fully vaccinated travellers are required to do a COVID-19 test upon arrival to Thailand. With a negative result, travellers are allowed to freely travel anywhere in Thailand. Travellers must present to the Thai authorities’ proof of payment for accommodation at approved hotels and the expenses for two RT-PCR tests on their first day and fifth day in the Kingdom.

Guests who stay at Meliá Koh Samui on the first day of arrival in Thailand will be charged an additional THB 2,200 nett (USD 67) per person per time for a RT-PCR test. The resort offers a roundtrip transfer to the hospital for the second RT-PCR Test for an additional THB 1,500 nett (USD 45) per car and THB 3,000 nett (USD 91) per van.

A standalone bathtub on a private balcony is a highlight of the resort’s Deluxe Rooms. The Premium Pool Access Rooms feature a separate bathtub and shower, with large private balcony access to a 700-metre-long lagoon pool that meanders through the resort’s grounds like a river. The elegant two-story Boat Suites are crafted from meticulously refurbished wood merchant vessels that once plied the waters of the Chao Phraya River and the Gulf of Thailand.

With an outdoor terrace that sits above Meliá Koh Samui’s strand, The Breeza Beach Restaurant & Bar is focused on contemporary Thai dishes as well as Western and Mediterranean cuisine and anchors the resort’s dining landscape.

Meliá Koh Samui’s complimentary recreational and wellness pursuits range from kayaking and aqua exercise classes to gentle flow yoga and “walking meditation” at a “massage river”; a reflexology path situated between the infinity pool and lagoon pool.

‘Samui Test and Go’ must be booked directly with the resort by 31 March 2022 by calling +66 (0) 77 938 899 for a stay period until 30 June 2022.

Rates are subject to 10% service charge and applicable tax. Full prepayment is required at the time of booking and is non-refundable. The Level benefits are an extra THB 1,500 (USD 45) nett per person per night and are only applicable with the Premium Pool Access and Boat Suite. An extra bed is priced at THB 1,500 (USD 45) nett per night inclusive of breakfast but not applicable to the Boat Suite. A supplementary charge of THB 3,000 nett (USD 91) per night applies for stays between 9 – 18 April 2022. Other terms and conditions apply as per resort policy.

Under the ‘Test and Go’ program, fully vaccinated travellers from any country are not required to quarantine but do need to do a RT-PCR test on arrival to Thailand*. Guests who stay at Meliá Koh Samui on the first day of arrival in Thailand will be charged an additional THB 2,200 (USD 67) per person per time for the RT-PCR test as required by the Thai authorities. The resort offers a roundtrip transfer to the hospital for the second RT-PCR Test for an additional THB 1,500 nett (USD 45) per car and THB 3,000 nett per van (USD 91).

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 AWC
Asset World Corporation (AWC) is Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group, a member of TCC Group, one of Thailand’s most prominent conglomerates. AWC’s core focus of real estate development and management projects encompass two business groups: Hospitality helping Thailand become the top destination for sustainable tourism with hotels in key locations in Bangkok and popular destinations throughout Thailand serviced by management teams from internationally acclaimed hotel groups such as Marriott, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Okura, Banyan Tree, Hilton, and Sheraton; Retail and Commercial Buildings (covering retail, and wholesale facilities with mixed-use properties and office buildings) providing well-balanced and unique offerings a best-in-class customer experience that meet business and modern lifestyles with high-quality and innovative real estate development projects overseen by a qualified and experienced management team to build long-term value for stakeholders.

AWC succeeded in listing the company on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) in the real estate and construction industry under the property development category on October 10, 2019. AWC’s market capitalization was the highest in the history of the SET (According to Bloomberg Database). AWC recognizes the importance of operating with a focus on sustainability – incorporating the needs of stakeholders, the environment, society, and contributing to ongoing improvements in Thailand’s economy with a purpose of building a better future.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Alma Resort Welcomes Son Hoang Le as Director of Sales

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Cam Ranh, Vietnam, February 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / A talented hospitality professional with more than 16 years of experience in sales, marketing, events and operations at some of Vietnam’s most acclaimed hotels has been named Alma’s director of sales.

Vietnamese national Son Hoang Le’s appointment to the 30-hectare family resort, with 196 pavilions and 384 suites overlooking Long Beach on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula, comes after he worked at the Caravelle Saigon as the director of room sales.

Before that, he was the director of sales and marketing at Diamond Bay Vung Tau Resort & Spa and the director of sales at Hotel Majestic Saigon.

Son embarked on his hospitality career in early 2005 as a bellman at the Caravelle Saigon, where he spent the next 10 years also working as a receptionist, night supervisor and banquet sales executive, learning about various facets of the hotel business.

He moved to the Hotel Nikko Saigon to become a corporate sales executive, before progressing to the Pullman Hanoi where he became a sales manager and then an acting senior sales manager.

Son holds a Bachelor of Arts, English Linguistics and Literature at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities and also studied electronics at Cao Thang College. Both institutions are based in Ho Chi Minh City.

Describing him as “an excellent negotiator and strategic thinker”, Alma’s managing director Herbert-Laubichler Pichler said Son’s background in operations enriched his leadership abilities among the hotel’s management ranks and, coupled with his rich sales and marketing experience, placed him in great stead to spearhead the resort’s ambitious sales efforts for 2022.

Bold, spacious and emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination, the independently owned and operated Alma features 14 food and beverage outlets and a cascade of 12 beachfront swimming pools. Other drawing cards include a science museum, 6000 square metre waterpark, 13-treatment room spa, art gallery, cinema, convention centre, amphitheatre, youth centre with virtual reality games, kid’s club, water sports centre, gymnasium and yoga room and an 18-hole putting green.

About Alma
Situated on Vietnam’s emerging Cam Ranh peninsula fronting Long Beach, Alma resort commands some 30 hectares of inspiring ground. Emblematic of Vietnam’s maturation as a destination, the bold and spacious integrated resort offers 580 oversized suites and pavilions that all afford sweeping vistas of the ocean, including contemporary three bedroom oceanfront pavilions each totalling 224sqm with a living room, four bathrooms and a private pool. Alma features a broad spectrum of restaurants helmed by top chefs, a food court with an array of local and international cuisine, as well as a sports bar, pool bar and beach bar. Other highlights include 12 swimming pools cascading down to the beach, a waterpark, 13-treatment room spa, 70-seat cinema, convention centre, amphitheater, art gallery, science museum, gymnasium and yoga room, 18-hole mini golf course, a youth centre with virtual reality games, a kid’s club, water sports centre and even an ‘Alma Mart’ mini supermarket.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

China’s Tourism Sector Could Reach CNY 11 trillion in 2022

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China’s Tourism Sector Could Reach CNY 11 trillion in 2022 - TRAVELINDEXBeijing, China, February 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / New research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed China’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP could reach CNY 11 trillion this year, just 5.2% short of pre-pandemic levels. In 2019, before the pandemic struck, China’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contributed CNY 11.5 trillion to GDP (11.6% of the country’s economy).

However, in 2020 the pandemic had a major impact on the sector and Travel & Tourism’s contribution to the Chinese economy fell by a staggering 59.9%, to CNY 4.6 trillion.

Latest research from the global tourism body shows that as the national economy begins to recover, the contribution of the sector to the country’s economy and jobs could reach almost pre-pandemic levels this year.

WTTC research shows that if China, with more than 87% of its population already fully inoculated, begins to ease restrictions throughout the year, the sector’s contribution to GDP could reach CNY 11 trillion in 2022, just 5.2% behind pre-pandemic levels.

After a loss of more than 16 million jobs in 2020, when Travel & Tourism businesses in China suffered serious losses due to severe travel restrictions and complete border closures, most of these could be recovered if the country continues to focus on its Travel & Tourism sector and particularly reopening its borders to international visitors.

The sector could recover more than 14 million jobs to reach nearly 81 million jobs in 2022 – just 1.7% below 2019 levels.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “China is a critical player in the global Travel & Tourism sector. It has done well to drive domestic tourism during the pandemic, but international travel has come to a halt. The benefits to opening borders represent a boost in both economic wealth and jobs.

“Our latest research shows 2022 could bring a strong recovery for Travel & Tourism globally, with pent-up demand and vaccination rates driving the recovery of this economically boosting sector.

“Millions of livelihoods depend on a thriving Travel & Tourism sector, but there is still work ahead if we want to achieve a full economic recovery and bring back all the jobs that were lost.”

A look at the Asia Pacific region

WTTC’s research shows the forecast for the Asia Pacific region could be equally positive, with the region’s Travel & Tourism sector also approaching pre-pandemic levels this year.

According to the research, the sector’s contribution to the region’s GDP could reach CNY 20 trillion (USD 2.9 trillion), near pre-pandemic levels, while employment could reach over 190 million jobs, surpassing 2019 figures and providing an additional five million jobs to the sector.

To reach close to pre-pandemic levels this year, WTTC says the Chinese government and governments around the world must continue focussing on the vaccine and booster rollout – allowing fully vaccinated travellers to move freely without the need for testing.

The global tourism body also urges governments to ditch the patchwork of restrictions and enable international travel using digital solutions that allow travellers to prove their status in a fast, simple, and secure way.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hopper Expands Strategic Technology Partnership with Sabre

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Hopper Expands Strategic Technology Partnership with Sabre - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXSouthlake, Texas, United States, February 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Sabre Corporation and Hopper, a growing online travel agencies, today announced the renewal and expansion of their long-term strategic technology partnership. Since 2012, Sabre has been a strategic partner of Hopper’s, helping the company deliver on its promise to save users time and money and make travel planning easier. Given their strong historical performance, today the two companies are committing to further elevate their partnership for the next three years, by making Sabre their primary global GDS and technology partner. Both parties have already defined a joint roadmap and will continue working closely to further evolve the online travel marketplace and customer experience.

For all your booking and lodging solutions worldwide book at HotelWorlds.com with app and personalized travel recommendations. Book now at HotelWorlds.com!

“Sabre believed in our vision when Hopper was in its infancy and has continued to support us as our strategic retailing and distribution partner since our beginning,” said Fred Lalonde, CEO and co-founder of Hopper. “Sabre’s global distribution network along with its advanced shopping APIs and ability to find the lowest fare was the foundation that we built upon – adding our own proprietary AI-based solutions. Together our innovations have made Hopper the stand-out brand it is today. We look forward to our continued partnership with Sabre as we work together to achieve Hopper’s next-generation services and solutions.”

The number one downloaded travel app in the U.S. in 2021, Hopper utilizes a broad spectrum of Sabre’s technology including low fare shopping APIs, post booking automation and shopping data to deliver on their commitment to find the lowest fares for customers and help them save money.

When travel was disrupted across the globe in 2020 and travelers sought to cancel or modify travel plans, Sabre’s post booking automation technology allowed Hopper to service their customers seamlessly and efficiently, driving cost savings which Hopper reinvested for the benefit of their millions of app users across the globe.

“We are thrilled to be a part of Hopper’s success over the years as its trusted technology partner,” said Roshan Mendis, chief commercial officer of Sabre Travel Solutions. “Even more important, we look forward to continuing to invest in the online segment and our work with Hopper to redefine the future of travel retailing through modern, intelligent solutions.”

As part of Hopper’s technology strategy and building on their long-term partnership, Sabre and Hopper are actively exploring opportunities to continue to co-innovate on the future of travel technology through Hopper Cloud.

For all your booking and lodging solutions worldwide book at HotelWorlds.com with app and personalized travel recommendations. Book now at HotelWorlds.com!

About Sabre Corporation
Sabre Corporation is a leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, serving a wide range of travel companies including airlines, hoteliers, travel agencies and other suppliers. The company provides retailing, distribution and fulfilment solutions that help its customers operate more efficiently, drive revenue and offer personalized traveler experiences. Through its leading travel marketplace, Sabre connects travel suppliers with buyers from around the globe. Sabre’s technology platform manages more than $260B worth of global travel spend annually. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world.

About Hopper
Hopper is a fast-growing mobile-first travel marketplace. By leveraging massive amounts of data and machine learning, the company has developed several unique fintech solutions that help customers save money and travel better. Through its B2B initiative, Hopper Cloud, the company is syndicating its fintech solutions, infrastructure, and agency content. Whether it’s pricing volatility or trip disruptions, Hopper’s proprietary suite of fintech solutions address every pain point in the customer journey while driving conversion, repeat purchases, and profitability.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Singapore Tourism Board Joins PATA as Newest National Government Member

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Singapore Tourism Board Joins PATA as Newest National Government Member - VisitSinagpore.org - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, Singapore, February 21, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to welcome the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) as its newest government member. STB’s mission is to shape a dynamic tourism landscape for Singapore in partnership with industry and community.

• Discover Singapore with VisitSingapore.org, a travel guide to Singapore

PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera said, “I am truly honoured to welcome the Singapore Tourism Board to the PATA family. Their focus on wellness, innovation and sustainability in the post pandemic landscape is in line with PATA’s mission in acting as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. STB understands that as we look towards recovery, constructive and coordinated cooperation across the region and between all industry stakeholders is critical. I look forward to working with them to support their strategic initiatives and welcome them into the PATA global community.”

Keith Tan, Chief Executive, STB said, “STB looks forward to working with PATA and its members to drive sustainable tourism development and to support the recovery of travel and tourism in the Asia-Pacific. PATA also plays a leadership role in bridging knowledge gaps, fostering cross-cutting cooperation and bringing strategic partners together. We look forward to sharing our experiences and contributing to these efforts.”

The STB is a statutory board under the Ministry of Trade and Industry of Singapore. It champions the development of Singapore’s tourism sector, one of the country’s key service sectors and economic pillars, and undertakes the marketing and promotion of Singapore as a tourism destination.

STB is working towards COVID-resilience and recovery for Singapore, as tourism remains an important economic pillar for the country. The Board has focused its efforts to transform the industry by driving innovation, building digital and marketing capabilities and forging partnerships beyond the tourism industry. Together with tourism stakeholders, STB is also reimagining Singapore’s products and experiences with a focus on areas such as health and safety, technology, as well as sustainability.

STB continues to market Singapore’s multi-faceted appeal as a premier business and leisure destination, and offer empowering and customised experiences. The organisation brings the “Passion Made Possible” brand to life by differentiating Singapore as a vibrant destination that inspires people to share and deepen their passions. This is a unified brand between STB and Economic Development Board (EDB) which will allow the international marketing of Singapore for tourism and business purposes. STB also regularly reviews and updates the tourism regulatory framework to ensure its relevance in the current business environment, while providing support and incentives to catalyse the private sector to take the lead in investing for growth.

• Discover Singapore with VisitSingapore.org, a travel guide to Singapore

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 member organisations, which including government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and 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.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Kempinski Hotels to Manage Prestigious Luxury Hotel in Riyadh

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Kempinski Hotels to Manage Prestigious Luxury Hotel in Riyadh - TOURISMSAUDIARABIA.com - TRAVELINDEXRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, February 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Kempinski Hotels portfolio is steadily growing in the Middle East: With the signing of a management agreement for a prestigious luxury hotel in Riyadh, the capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, another milestone in the expansion of the international hotel group has been set. The upcoming five-star Kempinski Al Qeshan Hotel is being built in a prime location in the heart of the Al Olaya business district on the famous King Fahad Road, which is home to banks, elegant restaurants and fine boutiques.

• Discover Saudi Arabia tourism at TourismSaudiArabia.com

The hotel with 150 elegant rooms and suites as well as ten serviced apartments are planned to be built and opened in approximately four years. With this luxury hotel, the owner is not only focusing on technical and structural sustainability but also has included a full green façade in his plans. While one complete floor of the 35-storey building is reserved for an exclusive ladies’ spa and one for a men’s spa, guests can indulge in culinary delights in two high-class restaurants or admire the skyline of the metropolis from the rooftop lounge and terrace with a pool of the luxury hotel.

“With Sheikh Abdul Kareem Abdullah Al Qeshan, an extremely successful businessman in the cementitious and construction industry, we have found an ideal partner who, like us, places the highest demands on quality and relies on a prime location,” says Bernold Schroeder, Chief Executive Officer Kempinski Group and Chairman of the Board Kempinski AG. “The country’s financial capital signifies an important step in our growth plans in the Kingdom. Following other projects in our development pipeline in Al Madinah, Makkah and Yanbu, as well as our already successfully operating Kempinski Hotel Al Othman in Al Khobar, we look forward to welcoming guests to the capital of Saudi Arabia in the future. We foresee an increasing demand for business travel as well as a growing appetite for leisure retreats in 5-star hotels, all aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which is to attract 100 million annual visitors by 2030.”

And Sheikh Abdul Kareem Abdullah Al Qeshan commented: “Thanks to unlimited support from our Kingdom to businessmen, Al Queshan successfully continues to invest in the Eastern region of our country. In expanding and diversifying my investments by building a five-star luxury hotel, I am keeping the pace of the Kingdom’s renaissance and its Vision 2030 led by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The signing of this agreement with Kempinski Hotels, one of the leading luxury hospitality brands around the globe, marked a special day in the history of our company. We are looking forward to building this thirty-five floors luxury hotel under the name of Kempinski Al Qeshan Riyadh as one of the most important tourist landmarks and assuring the finest architectural and technical specifications in the most important location on King Fahd Road. Besides providing high-end hotel services to visitors to Riyadh, we will be also contributing to creating many jobs for our ambitious youth.”

• Discover Saudi Arabia tourism at TourismSaudiArabia.com

Located on a desert plateau, the city of Riyadh is a place where old-world charm meets modernity and visions of the future: Alongside fortresses steeped in history, palaces, museums and colourful souks visitors will find skyscrapers in the thriving financial district, the country’s best universities, state-of-the-art shopping centres as well as a growing arts and culture scene. As the economic, administrative and cultural centre, Riyadh is the most populous city in Saudi Arabia with 7.5 million inhabitants.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

New Projects to Set Scottish Tourism Sector on Road to Net Zero

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New Projects to Set Scottish Tourism Sector on Road to Net Zero - TRAVELINDEXEdinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom, February 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Travel Foundation is working with VisitScotland and Scotland’s three economic development agencies on a package of COP26 legacy projects that will further establish Scotland’s tourism sector as a global leader in the race to net zero.

As part of the Destination Net Zero programme, funded through the Scottish Government’s Tourism Recovery Programme and developed by the Scottish Tourism Emergency Response Group (STERG), the projects will accelerate climate action within the sector, while sharing the lessons so that destinations worldwide can also benefit.

It follows on from the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, launched at COP26, which both VisitScotland and the Travel Foundation helped draft, and which the latter is now delivering in partnership with the UN’s World Tourism Organisation.

Nationally, the Travel Foundation will work with place-making agency TOPOSOPHY to help Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, South of Scotland Enterprise, VisitScotland and other stakeholders to develop their Destination Net Zero Action Plan. The plan will outline the next phases of support for Scotland’s tourism industry to enable further progress towards net zero.

Regionally, the Travel Foundation will work with VisitScotland and the three enterprise agencies to launch pilot schemes in Glasgow, the Outer Hebrides, and Inverness & Loch Ness to support destinations to develop climate action plans.

Adding a tactical approach, the Travel Foundation and VisitScotland are working with a major tour operator, The Travel Corporation, on a pilot project that will be instrumental in developing a practical sector framework for addressing Scope 3 emissions in tourism – those that occur in the tourism value chain, such as accommodations, ground transport and food production. The Travel Corporation’s Scottish based brands include Haggis Adventures, Highland Explorer Tours and The Skye Inn, in addition to group touring brands such as Contiki, Trafalgar and Insight Vacations and Red Carnation Hotel group, which is opening the 5-star 100 Princes Street in Edinburgh later this year. The Travel Corporation has recently developed an internal carbon calculator that will help with Scope 3 estimates and be integral to setting the group’s carbon reduction targets.

Both pilot projects will be supported by behaviour change experts BehaviorSMART who will recommend innovative ways to “design out” carbon-intensive business practices and customer behaviours.

It is anticipated that the new processes, tools and trainings from each of these projects can be applied across Scotland and will support global efforts, through the Glasgow Declaration initiative, to help travel and tourism organisations plan a pathway towards net zero. The Glasgow Declaration already has support from more than 500 businesses and organisations, including The Travel Corporation which was a launch signatory for the declaration at COP26.

Tourism Minister Ivan McKee said:

“Destination Net Zero will play an important role in helping support Scotland’s tourism sector transition to a low carbon future through globally recognised leadership in responsible, sustainable managed growth.

“Our ambitious climate targets align with our intention for Scotland to be world leading in 21st century tourism as set out in Scotland Outlook 2030, our national tourism strategy.”

Jeremy Sampson, CEO of The Travel Foundation, said:

“Scotland has adopted a leadership role on climate action in tourism, and the work we are doing now will improve understanding of – and hopefully resolve – some of the challenges that all destinations are facing as they plan their transition towards net zero. It is important that other destinations follow in Scotland’s footsteps, and we hope these initiatives will create useful tools, guidance and a way forward.”

Malcolm Roughead OBE, Chief Executive of VisitScotland said:

“As the first national tourism organisation to declare a climate emergency, we have long been committed to leading the development of Scotland as a responsible destination. Climate change is one of the biggest long-term challenges facing the tourism sector. We must take action if we want to preserve and enhance Scotland’s natural and built assets to create an environment which benefits communities, businesses and our visitors. Through the Destination Net Zero programme, we want to support tourism businesses on their journey to net zero. By working together, we can help Scotland become a world-class destination, and the best destination for responsible tourism​.”

Shannon Guihan, Chief Sustainability Officer & Head of TreadRight at The Travel Corporation said:

“As we embark on our own ambitious path to reduce our carbon, the need to engage directly with progressive destinations is clear to us. We, as the visitor and Scotland, as the host in this case, can identify practical steps to address our Scope 3 emissions, addressing the challenge from the perspective of supply and demand jointly rather than in our own silos. Our brands such as Haggis Adventures, Highland Explorer Tours, Trafalgar and more are dedicated to operationalising Scotland’s own net zero ambitions.”

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tourism Raises Its Voice for Peace

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UNWTO - Tourism Raises Its Voice for Peace - TRAVELINDEXMadrid, Spain, February 19, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / After two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, people, as well as our whole societies and economies, have suffered enough. We cannot afford for this to continue. We must rebuild and look to the future with hope, not fear.

Peace and mutual understanding are essential ingredients for recovery. Now is the time to work together, and for diplomacy instead of conflict in all parts of the world. We must not allow political tensions to turn into a man-made crisis that will undermine our collective progress.

Tourism is the main bridge for building understanding. It has a unique ability to promote peace between and among peoples everywhere.

Tourism is the main bridge for building understanding. It has a unique ability to promote peace between and among peoples everywhere. The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) stands firmly with UN Secretary-General António Guterres in his call for all countries to settle disputes through peaceful means and not through conflict, and that they respect international security and justice at all times.

As a part of the UN, giving a voice to people of all regions, backgrounds and nationalities, UNWTO also believes that the spirit of international solidarity and shared values that define not just tourism but also our common humanity will prevail. We also hope that diplomatic efforts to avoid conflict continue and succeed.

Zurab Pololikashvili
Secretary-General

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Adventure Awaits in Dominica, the Caribbean’s Nature Island

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Adventure Awaits in Dominica, the Caribbean’s Nature Island - TRAVELINDEXRoseau, Dominica, February 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Cabrits Resort and Spa Kempinski Dominica, a five-star resort nestled within one of Dominica’s pristine national parks and lush ecosystems, is the ideal base from which to explore the natural beauty of this stunning, untouched Caribbean Island. The world’s second-largest hot spring, Boiling Lake, is a must-see natural attraction, and the island’s thriving coral reefs are bucket-list-worthy for avid divers and snorkellers. Home to three national parks, two forest reserves and 365 rivers, the island offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Now it is even easier to reach the island with the recent launch of American Airlines’ nonstop flights from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Douglas-Charles International Airport (DOM). Flights operates three times weekly and serve as the only nonstop link from the United States to Dominica.

“With the new direct airlift from Miami, paired with our special Discover Dominica offer, we invite guests to get out and explore all that this incredible destination has to offer,” said Resort Manager Pascale Selwan. “Our resort provides the best of both worlds: an idyllic location within Cabrits National Park, combined with unparalleled five-star service and luxurious resort amenities.”

The resort’s concierge can arrange guided group and private tours to some of the island’s most famous natural attractions such as Trafalgar Falls, Titou Gorge and the hot spring Ti Kwen Glo Cho. This impressive cave is home to a hidden waterfall and even served as a film location for the second ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ film. After a day of exploring, guests can return to the resort for some well-deserved relaxation, unwinding in the full-service Kempinski The Spa, dining on international cuisine and cooling off in one of four refreshing swimming pools.

The Discover Dominica package includes:
– Luxurious accommodations
– Daily buffet breakfast at Cabrits Market
– Day trip to Titou Gorge, including 45 minutes at Ti Kwen Glo Cho Natural Spa
Rates start from 466 USD per night. This offer is available for stays of three nights or longer, is subject to availability and is valid until 31 December, 2022, with free cancellation up to seven days prior to arrival.

About Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski Dominica
Situated in Douglas Bay on the northwest side of the island, Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski Dominica provides a breath-taking panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea as well as easy access to explore the island’s countless waterfalls, natural hot springs and 365 rivers, one for each day of the year. All 151 rooms, suites, duplexes and one Presidential Villa are luxuriously appointed. Resort features include two distinctive restaurants for local and international cuisine, including farm-to-table and sea-to-table dining, and a bar; an 18,000 sq. ft spa; four pools; six beach cabanas; modern fitness facilities; two tennis courts; a children’s club and on-site water sports. More than 8,000 sq. ft of events space, including three meeting rooms, a boardroom and an outdoor amphitheatre provide options for executive retreats, weddings and celebrations.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UK Tourism Sector to Hit £192 billion if Government Keeps Borders Open

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UK Tourism Sector to Hit £192 billion if Government Keeps Borders Open - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, February 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / New data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) shows the UK’s Travel & Tourism sector is recovering, with the country’s GDP predicted to rise to £192 billion, just 19% below pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2022.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

The global tourism body forecasts a healthy recovery for the UK Travel & Tourism sector if travel restrictions and unnecessary testing protocols remain off limits for the rest of the year.

According to the latest research, it could also mean a net gain in jobs for the sector, with a rise of 1.7% on pre pandemic levels, resulting in some 4.3 million people being employed within Travel & Tourism by the end of the year, 70,000 more than in 2019.

This latest WTTC data will come as welcome news to the country’s battle-scarred Travel & Tourism sector as it looks forward to travel returning.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Travel & Tourism to and from the UK is poised for a full recovery. By the end of this year, we estimate its contribution to national economy could reach £192 billion.

“While the UK was one of the worst hit in terms of the sector’s contribution to GDP, the future is looking positive. But this will depend on the government keeping to its pledge to re-open UK Plc and not reintroducing the chaotic travel restrictions that actually had zero impact on the spread of the virus.”

Last week, research from WTTC revealed that as the world began its recovery from pandemic, the sector’s contribution to both the global economy and employment could reach almost pre-pandemic levels this year.

It forecasts that the global Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to the global economy could reach $8.6 trillion this year, just 6.4% behind pre-pandemic levels.

WTTC has long urged governments to support vaccine and booster rollouts with repealing restrictive and ineffective travel restrictions.

This would help reboot the Travel & Tourism sector to pre-pandemic levels and restore jobs to just 1% below levels last seen in 2019.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

The global tourism body also urges governments around the world to remove the patchwork of restrictions, allow the fully vaccinated to travel freely and enable international travel using digital solutions that allow travellers to prove their status in a fast, simple and secure way.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News