Global Travel News

IATA Travel Momentum Builds as Restrictions are Lifted

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IATA Travel Momentum Builds as Restrictions are Lifted - AIRLINEHUB.com - TRAVELINDEXGeneva, Switzerland, February 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data showing growing momentum in the recovery of air travel as restrictions are lifted. IATA reported a sharp 11-percentage point increase for international tickets sold in recent weeks (in proportion to 2019 sales).

– In the period around 8 February (7 day moving average) the number of tickets sold stood at 49% of the same period in 2019.
– In the period around 25 January (7 day moving average) the number of tickets sold stood at 38% of the same period in 2019.
– The 11-percentage point improvement between the January and February periods is the fastest such increase for any two-week period since the crisis began.

Progressive Alleviation of COVID-19 Measures

The jump in ticket sales comes as more governments announce a relaxation of COVID-19 border restrictions. An IATA survey of travel restrictions for the world’s top 50 air travel markets (comprising 92% of global demand in 2019 as measured by revenue passenger kilometers) revealed the growing access available to vaccinated travelers.

– 18 markets (comprising about 20% of 2019 demand) are open to vaccinated travelers without quarantine or pre-departure testing requirements.
– 28 markets are open to vaccinated travelers without quarantine requirements (including the 18 markets noted above). This comprises about 50% of 2019 demand.
– 37 markets (comprising about 60% of 2019 demand) are open to vaccinated travelers under varying conditions (18 having no restrictions, others requiring testing or quarantine or both).

These numbers reflect a spate of relaxations announced around the world, including in Australia, France, the Philippines, the UK, Switzerland, and Sweden among them.

“Momentum toward normalizing traffic is growing. Vaccinated travelers have the potential to travel much more extensively with fewer hassles than even a few weeks ago. This is giving growing numbers of travelers the confidence to buy tickets. And that is good news! Now we need to further accelerate the removal of travel restrictions. While recent progress is impressive, the world remains far from 2019 levels of connectivity. Thirteen of the top 50 travel markets still do not provide easy access to all vaccinated travelers. That includes major economies like China, Japan, Russia, Indonesia, and Italy,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

IATA continues to call for:

– Removing all travel barriers (including quarantine and testing) for those fully vaccinated with a WHO-approved vaccine,
– Enabling quarantine-free travel for non-vaccinated travelers with a negative pre-departure antigen test result,
– Removing travel bans, and,
– Accelerating the easing of travel restrictions in recognition that travelers pose no greater risk for COVID-19 spread than already exists in the general population.

“Travel restrictions have had a severe impact on people and on economies. They have not, however, stopped the spread of the virus. And it is time for their removal as we learn to live and travel in a world that will have risks of COVID-19 for the foreseeable future. This means putting a stop to the singling out of the traveling population for special measures. In nearly all cases, travelers don’t bring any more risk to a market than is already there. Many governments have recognized this already and removed restrictions. Many more need to follow,” said Walsh.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Mandarin Oriental Signs Multi-Islands Resort in Maldives

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Mandarin Oriental Signs Multi-Islands Resort in Maldives

South Male Atoll, Maldives, February 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced that it will manage a new resort on a private island in The Maldives that is scheduled to open in 2025. The resort is currently under development on a pristine Indian Ocean site and will stretch across three private islands on Bolidhuffaru Reef in South Male Atoll, accessed by an easy 20-minute speedboat ride from Male’s Velana international airport.

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

Surrounded by white sand beaches and the vibrant coral reefs for which The Maldives is renowned, the resort will provide a picturesque backdrop from which to enjoy a variety of activities including wellness experiences and watersports.

The accommodation comprises 120 stand-alone villas, made up of 56 overwater villas and 64 beachfront villas, including 10 branded Residences at Mandarin Oriental. Ranging in size from 200 to 1,000 square metres, the villas will be some of the largest in the market, each providing exclusivity and seclusion, with private pools and sweeping ocean views. The Group is working with a number of international consultants to ensure sustainability best practises are followed in all stages of the development.

Six dining outlets, including three speciality restaurants and a sunset bar, will ensure that guests have a varied choice of venues during their stay. In addition, creative indoor and outdoor event space will provide unique locations for meetings, social gatherings and weddings.

Spacious wellness facilities will be located in the resort’s tropical gardens, and will include 12 treatment suites, vitality pools, sauna and steam rooms as well as a beauty salon. Mandarin Oriental’s expert team of wellness practitioners will offer tailored experiences and the Group’s signature treatments.

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

Additional leisure activities will include a watersports and dive centre, tennis courts, a kids and teens club, a swimming pool and numerous private coves and beaches to explore.

The 34-hectare site is being developed by DAMAC Properties, part of Dubai-based DAMAC Group, one of the world’s foremost luxury real estate developers.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Avolon and AirAsia Partner to Create Transformational Ride Sharing Platform

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Avolon and AirAsia Partner to Create Transformational Ride Sharing Platform

Dublin, Ireland, February 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Avolon, the international aircraft leasing company, today announces that one of the world’s leading airline groups, AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AirAsia), has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to lease a minimum of 100 VX4 eVTOL aircraft from Avolon.

These eVTOL aircraft will allow AirAsia to further revolutionise air travel by providing advanced air mobility to a whole new range of passengers, transforming how we all connect more efficiently in our everyday lives.

In addition to the eVTOL aircraft, Avolon, through its investment and innovation affiliate Avolon-e, will partner with AirAsia to commercialise zero-emissions eVTOL aircraft and develop an industry leading urban air mobility (‘UAM’) platform in Southeast Asia. Avolon and AirAsia will form a working group to pursue local certification, research potential market opportunities and infrastructure requirements for UAM. AirAsia will also leverage its successful travel and lifestyle mobile app, the AirAsia Super App, to help support and build an eVTOL ride sharing platform with Avolon.

Avolon VX4 Order book
In June 2021, Avolon ordered 500 VX4 eVTOL aircraft from Vertical Aerospace (NYSE: EVTL) (‘Vertical’), valued at US $2 billion. Since announcing that order, Avolon placed 250 VX4 aircraft with Gol and Grupo Comporte in Brazil, up to 100 aircraft with Japan Airlines in Japan, and a minimum of 100 aircraft with AirAsia. As a result, Avolon has now placed up to 90% of its initial orderbook, underlining the demand for VX4 aircraft from the world’s leading airlines.

Dómhnal Slattery, CEO of Avolon commented: “Tony Fernandes is an aviation pioneer who has built AirAsia into one of the leading airlines in the world and has now also created Southeast Asia’s fastest growing Super App anchored on travel. We are delighted to partner with AirAsia who share our vision of revolutionising the future of air travel. We look forward to working with Tony, and the AirAsia team, on their eVTOL journey. Together we will develop a ride sharing platform and bring the zero-emissions VX4 aircraft into service, positioning AirAsia as the operator of choice for sustainable air travel in the region.”

Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A commented: “Innovation has always been in our DNA and using technology to look at more efficient and sustainable ways of doing things is a core focus across Capital A (formerly AirAsia Group). We are now much more than just an airline with over 20 products and services on our super app leveraging off each other including flights, hotels, food, retail, delivery, ride hailing and more. I am truly excited about this partnership between Avolon and AirAsia and the potential for zero-emissions ultra-short-haul air travel in Southeast Asia. The digital era is now. In the VX4, we have identified what we believe will be the eVTOL aircraft of choice and we are thrilled to be the launch airline for the aircraft in Southeast Asia. We are also delighted to extend our long-standing relationship with Avolon, which has a proven track record of delivering for its customers and is in sync with our goal to become the leading one stop travel and delivery platform in Asean.”

Stephen Fitzpatrick, CEO of Vertical commented: “We are delighted that AirAsia is the latest leading airline committing to lease our zero-emissions VX4 aircraft. AirAsia provides many fantastic opportunities to travel around some of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world, and I am thrilled that we will be bringing zero emissions flight to people all across Asia.”

About VX4 eVTOL Aircraft
VX4 eVTOL Aircraft The four passenger, one pilot VX4 is projected to have speeds up to 200mph, a range over100 miles, near silent when in flight, zero operating emissions and low cost per passenger mile. The VX4 is expected to open up advanced air mobility to a whole new range of passengers and transform how we travel. Find out more: vertical-aerospace.com

About Avolon
Headquartered in Ireland, with offices in the United States, Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong and Shanghai, Avolon provides aircraft leasing and lease management services. Avolon is 70% owned by an indirect subsidiary of Bohai Leasing Co., Ltd., a public company listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SLE: 000415) and 30% owned by ORIX Aviation Systems, a subsidiary of ORIX Corporation which is listed on the Tokyo and New York Stock Exchanges (TSE: 8591; NYSE: IX). Avolon is the world’s second largest aircraft leasing business with an owned, managed and committed fleet, as of 31 December 2021 of 824 aircraft.

About Vertical Aerospace
Vertical Aerospace is pioneering electric aviation. The company was founded in 2016 by Stephen Fitzpatrick, an established entrepreneur best known as the founder of the Ovo Group, a leading energy and technology group and Europe’s largest independent energy retailer. Over the past five years, Vertical has focused on building the most experienced and senior team in the eVTOL industry, who have over 1,700 combined years of engineering experience, and have certified and supported over 30 different civil and military aircraft and propulsion systems.

Vertical’s top-tier partner ecosystem is expected to de-risk operational execution and its pathway to certification allows for a lean cost structure and enables production at scale. Vertical has a market-leading pre-order book (by value) for a total of up to 1,350 aircraft from American Airlines, Avolon, Bristow and Iberojet, which includes conditional pre-order options from Virgin Atlantic and Marubeni, and in doing so, is creating multiple potential near term and actionable routes to market.

About AirAsia Aviation Group Ltd (AAAGL)
AAAGL is the holding company that oversees all airlines in Capital A (formerly AirAsia Group Berhad), as well as related international support functions including AirAsia Consulting, shared corporate services division AirAsia SEA, the Santan food group and the ground handling services joint venture business called GTR.

About Capital A
Capital A is an investment holding company with a portfolio of synergistic travel and lifestyle businesses that leverage data and technology to deliver the best value at the lowest cost, supported by high quality data and one of Asia’s leading brands that remains committed to serving the underserved.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

International Visitor Arrival Numbers to Increase Across Asia Pacific in 2022

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International Visitor Arrival Numbers to Increase Across Asia Pacific in 2022

Bangkok, Thailand, February 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Following on from the release of the Executive Summary at the end of last month, the PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2022-2024 Full Report released today by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) predicts annual changes in international visitor arrivals (IVAs) across the region to turn positive versus 2021 IVAs under each of the mild, medium, and severe scenarios in 2022, with growth rates ranging between 126% and 84%.

The increase in the absolute number of international visitor arrivals is predicted therefore to range from 72.5 million to 175.7 million under the severe and mild scenarios respectively, lifting the total volume of visitor arrivals to between 159 million and 315 million, under those same scenarios respectively.

While it is a positive and welcome development after two years of extremely difficult conditions, the international travel and tourism sector of the Asia Pacific region still has much to repair and revitalise. The forecasted increases in inbound visitor numbers in 2022, for example, still only return them to 23-45% of the level of foreign arrivals received in pre-pandemic 2019.

Moving forward to 2024, IVA growth over the next three years is projected to be positive, with the volume of IVAs in 2024 being equal to, or better than that of 2019, under two of the three scenarios.

As noted by PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera, “Our latest forecast report numbers, based on data current as of November 2021 reviewed in conjunction with our recent research advisory panel updates provided on Jan 24, 2021 provide the definitive outlook for Asia Pacific visitor arrival forecasts. As noted by our panel, the effect of the Omicron variant is projected to have a small incremental impact for now with the key earlier assumptions still driving the forecast.”

“Equitable access and deployment of vaccines plus a practical risk-based approach to health and safety protocols in travel is foundational to not only the travel sector’s sustained recovery but to the overall global recovery from the pandemic. We share the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) view that the pharmaceutical sector must address barriers to access and affordability for all destinations. Furthermore, as acknowledged by the WHO, travel bans will not prevent international spread. Instead, travel channels should remain open with clear, practical guidelines as recently shared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO.”

“Destinations across Asia Pacific have been highly focussed on implementing health and safety measures. In parallel, various research studies and early travel patterns indicate a heightened consumer interest in a pivot to the right side of travel – longer journeys, more authentic experiences, and nature-based, wellness-oriented, and socially-conscious travel offerings are amongst the key trends for today’s travellers.

Destinations can expedite their recovery by staying top-of-mind with consumers, communicating requirements with clarity and consistency, and offering a sustainable, healthy destination experience,” added Ms Ortiguera.

The PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2022-2024 Full Report is now available at www.pata.org/research-q1v63g6n2dw/p/asia-pacific-visitor-forecasts-2022-2024-full-report.

What you will learn from this report:

– International visitor arrival forecasts for Asia Pacific between 2022 and 2024 by destination region, sub-region, and destination, highlighting changing demand preferences in the face of policy changes.
– Forecasts for 39 individual destinations by scenario allowing for the development of better recovery strategies for the post-COVID-19.
– Forecasts of travel demand from key source regions into each of 39 individual Asia Pacific destinations by scenario and by quarter and year.

PATA International members have exclusive access to the recording of the “PATA Visitor Forecasts 2022 to 2024’ webinar which included expert speakers from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Euromonitor International, and TCI Research. The speakers provided an overview of the forecasts for international arrivals to Asia Pacific between 2020 and 2024 as well as insights and analysis on Asia Pacific travel-related sentiment and consumer trends.

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

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Making Communities Central Part of Tourism’s Future

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UNWTO Making Communities Central Part of Tourism’s Future - TRAVELINDEXSkiathos, Greece, February 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO is supporting communities as they prepare to welcome visitors back and realize the potential of tourism to kickstart recovery and drive sustainable and inclusive growth.

As restrictions on travel continue to be steadily eased or lifted, UNWTO is shifting its focus from supporting its Members as they mitigate the impacts of the historic crisis to rethinking tourism’s longer-term role in building resilience and providing opportunity. Through Technical Assistance packages, UNWTO is on the ground in every global region.

On the ground in Greece

Illustrating UNWTO’s commitment to working with communities themselves to rethink and restart tourism, a new partnership with the Municipality of Skiathos is advancing people-first policies. For decades, tourism has been a pillar of economic growth and opportunity for the residents of the island, one of Europe’s leading destinations. Now, as the sector restarts and recovers from the impacts of the pandemic, UNWTO is working alongside local authorities on a package of technical advice and practical assistance.

In the immediate term, UNWTO experts will work with the Municipality to assess the marketing strategy of the island and recommend adaptations and necessary improvements, with a particular emphasis on the destination’s commitment to using tourism as a driver of sustainable development.  At the same time, and in order to ensure the sector works for everyone on Skiathos, UNWTO will also study local residents’ views on tourism and assess how they can be more involved in tourism planning and development.

This represents the first Technical Assistance package developed by UNWTO in Greece. The Mayor of Skiathos Thodoris Tzoumas welcomed the initiative as a “significant collaboration regarding tourism recovery in Skiathos following pandemic. At present, we are waiting for the initiation of the collaboration. With the synergy and support from the leading bodies of the world and our country when it comes to tourism, we are certain that we will manage to achieve the best results to everyone’s benefit”.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Transformation Towards Tourism of the Future – Declaration Signed in Panama

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Transformation Towards Tourism of the Future – Declaration Signed in Panama - TRAVELINDEXPanama City, Panama, February 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / On February 9, six tourism ministers and the regional tourism authorities, along with the executives of Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), held a roundtable in Panama and co-signed the Declaration, “Transforming towards the Tourism of the Future.”

While the host country Panama welcomes buyers from eight countries to the ATTA event, Latin American Adventure Next held in Panama City, Iván Eskildsen, Minister of Tourism of Panama extended the invitations to the regional ministers to discuss tourism sector collaboration. Eskildsen’s team initiated the declaration idea and prepared the draft. Following a two-hour, round-table discussion, the ministers all agreed to support the Declaration, which received 11 signatures.

The support was given by the ministers of tourism of Panama (Iván Eskildsen), Colombia (Ricardo Galindo), Costa Rica (Gustavo Alvarado), Ecuador (Niels Olsen), Guatemala (Alejandro De León) and Honduras (Luis Guillermo Chévez), joined by the high authorities of Brazil (Bruno Wending, Secretary of Tourism, Mato Grosso do Sul), Panama (Fernando Fondevila, Executive Director, PROMTUR) and Jordan (Malia Asfour, Director of North America), as well as Shannon Stowell, ATTA CEO, and Gabi Stowell, ATTA Regional Director for Latin America & Caribbean.

The Declaration is in response to a call by UNWTO for the public and private sectors to reconsider the development of the industry as it recovers. UNWTO has identified this time as an opportunity to accelerate tourism’s shift towards greater sustainability.

When asked what prompted him to lead this regional collaborative initiative, Eskildsen says, “As human beings, we need to improve the way we do things in relation to the planet, to people and to our countries. Latin America has amazing similarities such as biodiversity and cultures. We are with the type of mindset: If we can share experiences to improve our wellbeing in our region, then it’s also good for the individual countries. What is good for the beehive, would benefit individual bees, like Marcus Aurelius of Roma said. Our Declaration draft received support from all ministers, who are also supporters of better ideas and more visionary strategies.”

Eskildsen states that Panama will continue to implement its blueprint, the Sustainable Tourism Master Plan approved by the Cabinet and the President. Among many strategies, Panama will continue to work on innovative tourism experiences with the private sector, to showcase and to get the interests of the international markets.

Haybina Hao reporting from Panama City.

Haybina is an international travel industry reporter and has been reporting in both Chinese and English. Linkedin

DECLARATION:  TRANSFORMATION TOWARDS THE TOURISM OF THE FUTURE

WE AGREE

that the future of tourism is collaborative, bringing together the ancestral wisdom of local and indigenous communities with pioneering scientific and economic knowledge in service to long-term stewardship of integrated ecosystems.

WE BELIEVE

the future of tourism is regenerative.  It is our opportunity to rethink the way we interact with nature and people to regenerate invaluable ancestral knowledge in order to face the current anthropogenic climate crisis.

WE RECOGNIZE

the future of tourism is green and blue. It is imperative that our industry protect and regenerate the last wild places and carbon sinks in both land and ocean.

WE ARE COMMITTED

to the transformation towards a carbon-neutral and more socially resilient tourism economy – including new business models through digitalization – thus providing the opportunity to ensure a fair distribution of its benefits and contributing to a global economic reactivation.

Signed in Panama City, the 9th of February, 2022.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Four Seasons Hotels with Experiential Tented Resort in Punta Mita

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Four Seasons Hotels with Experiential Tented Resort in Punta Mita - TRAVELINDEXPunta Mita, Mexico, February 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, one of the world’s leading luxury hospitality companies, announces plans for an innovative resort concept focusing on highly customizable itineraries led by personal guides, sustainable design and programming inspired by the nature and history of Mexico. The new luxury tented resort will be an expansion of the existing Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita in an untouched enclave within the Resort community.

Located along the Pacific shores of the Riviera Nayarit, the Resort will offer programming that enhances guest wellbeing and connects them with the beauty and traditions of the destination.

Set to open in late 2022, Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, Mexico will offer a collection of 15 luxury tents nestled in the lush forests of the Riviera Nayarit with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Inspired by the idea of naturaleza viva, or “live naturally,” the Resort is deeply integrated into its natural surroundings, inviting guests to connect with the land, sea, fellow guests, and most importantly, themselves.

“The Naviva Resort will be an exceptional retreat for those seeking highly individualized service, curated wellness experiences and artful culinary offerings that reflect the culture and character of Mexico,” says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development and Portfolio Management, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “This is an ambitious and innovative new project for our brand, with every detail focused on the wellbeing of the guests, the sustainability of the design and the celebration of the destination.”

The Naviva Resort Experience

Ahead of arrival, guests will be matched with a personal guide to create a bespoke itinerary based on their specific needs and desires, choosing from a range of experiences or simply relaxing in their beautiful surroundings. The Resort guides have been selected for their care, intuition and discernment, along with their knowledge of the destination. The guides will assist in creating custom itineraries and personalizing experiences, while also providing the space and freedom for guests to unwind and explore on their own.

Guests will be immersed in the natural design from the moment of arrival, meeting their guides on a cocoon-inspired bamboo bridge overlooking a 30-foot (9 metre) ravine. The design aesthetic continues with butterfly-inspired guest tents perched on hillsides, each with private pools and expansive decks, and many with outdoor gardens.

The onsite programming has been thoughtfully curated with the support of local experts and has been designed to allow for heightened personalization – such as one-on-one interactions with the Resort executive chef; personal training sessions in the outdoor gym experience; private dinners with sweeping ocean views and bespoke menus; or exploring Mexico’s hidden wine and spirits scene. Guides offer intuitive partnership and knowledge to help guests truly understand and connect with their experiences.

The Naviva Resort is perfect for solo travellers, couples or those travelling with close friends and loved ones. With most offerings included as part of the stay, and digital disconnection highly encouraged, guests will be able to fully relax, rejuvenate, explore and get the most out of their journey.

About Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort
The property will celebrate its natural surroundings through an organic aesthetic and design, with sustainable elements including solar panels, efficient water systems and natural drainage, electric vehicles, upcycled artwork and locally sourced products, materials, produce and ingredients.

Luxury Frontiers, international experts in the design of innovative and experiential resorts, has been selected to help bring the Naviva Resort to life and create a sustainable, low-impact sanctuary. The design of the property will allow for seamless movement between indoor and outdoor living, ultimately creating an environment that is ideal for an immersive and transformational journey.

The Resort will feature an expansive pool inspired by the enveloping jungle, access to a secluded beach, spa pods that offer customizable treatments featuring products made from local ingredients, a cliffside yoga pavilion and an outdoor gym. In addition, supported by knowledgeable guides, guests will be able to experience the restorative power of an onsite temazcal.

The onsite restaurant, Copal, will be a farm-to-table open-air Mexican grill house overlooking the seascapes of Punta Mita, and will serve fresh homegrown produce and bountiful sea catches on a rotating seasonal menu. With the open kitchen as the epicentre of the space, guests will be able to witness traditional cooking techniques at work.

In addition to onsite programming and experiences, guests will have full access to Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, including the restaurant and bar offerings, additional spa and fitness facilities, and beach and pool access.

Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, Mexico will be located less than an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, where daily inbound and outbound international flights are available. The Naviva Resort will be an expansion of Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita and joins Four Seasons growing collection of properties in Mexico, which include Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City, Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas and the upcoming Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

In Canada Doctors Can Now Prescribe a Visit to a National Park

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In Canada Doctors Can Now Prescribe a Visit to a National Park - TRAVELINDEXVancouver, British Columbia, Canada, February 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / A walk in the park may be just what the doctor ordered. A new program launched last month in Canada gives some doctors the option of providing patients with a free annual pass to the country’s national parks as part of an effort to increase access to nature and the health benefits to be found outside.

PaRx, a health initiative launched by the BC Parks Foundation in 2019, partnered with Parks Canada to provide doctors across four provinces with an initial run of 100 passes that can be prescribed, The Washington Post reported. The typical park prescription program allows doctors to write more general prescriptions for time spent out in nature; two hours a week, at least 20 minutes at a time, is what PaRx director Dr. Melissa Lem suggests, according to the Post.

This is the first time that year-long passes to national parks have been available under the program, the outlet reported.

“Given the growing body of evidence that indicates nature time can improve all kinds of different physical and mental health conditions, we’re hoping that our PaRx program not only improves patient health, but reduces costs to the healthcare system, and helps to grow the number of people who are more engaged environmental advocates,” Prama Rahman, a coordinator for the BC Parks Foundation’s Healthy By Nature Program, told NPR in an email.

It’s a unique concept, one that’s been taking off locally as well as abroad. In the U.S., a group of parks professionals, health care providers, and community leaders worked together to form the National ParkRx Initiative around 10 years ago. The movement still lives on via ParkRx, its website and online resource for information on park prescriptions and the health benefits of nature.

Research has long pointed to the mental and physical health benefits of spending time outdoors. A 2019 study concluded that those who spent between 120 minutes or more outside per week reported positive effects on their general health and well-being when compared to those who didn’t get outside at all.

Doctors have been catching on; more and more providers have been instructing their patients to turn to nature to improve their health and they’re getting creative in how they do it.

Dr. Robert Zarr, a pediatrician based in Washington, D.C., began prescribing accessible outdoor activities for his young patients and even created a searchable online database of local parks to make it easier, NPR reported in 2014.

But getting outside isn’t always as easy as it might sound. Income can affect one’s access to nature, an issue that PaRx is trying to address in Canada. Doctors utilizing the new national parks pass program are urged to prioritize patients who might not otherwise be able to afford these passes, The Post reported.

While only 100 adult discovery passes – which gives holders access to more than 80 national parks, historic sites and nature reserves – have initially been made available, organizers plan to routinely reassess this number as the program grows, the BC Parks Foundation told NPR.

First published at NPR

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Capri by Fraser Opens in Bukit Bintang of Kuala Lumpur

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Capri by Fraser Opens in Bukit Bintang of Kuala Lumpur - HOTELWORLDS - TRAVELINDEXKuala Lumpur, Malaysia, February 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Frasers Hospitality, a member of Frasers Property Group, has expanded its footprint in Asia Pacific with the launch of Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang, a smart new hotel residence living in KL’s most dynamic downtown district. This is a tech-savvy, lifestyle-led property where art and technology combine to create seamless, 24-7 stays. Soaring 43 storeys high and surrounded by luxury retail malls, upmarket restaurants, vibrant bars and exciting attractions, this sleek hotel residence elevates every stay to new levels of comfort, convenience and connectivity. Guests can enjoy expedited arrivals with a fully automated car park and self-check-in kiosks.

Stays at Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang are centred around The Den, a stylish social hub that spreads across two levels and where travellers can chill out, catch up with friends, play board games, listen to music on the digital jukebox, or dine in style. Guests can work out at the high-tech 42nd floor gym, which frames jaw-dropping views of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows, or cool off into the healthy saltwater pool. Even chores like the laundry have a fun twist at Spin & Play, the guest laundrette and games room. To make every stay run smoothly, The Fixer – a friend, guide and all-round cool character – is on hand to manage any requests, offer insider tips on KL’s lively local social scene, or simply make guests feel at home.

The 319 contemporary studios and one-bedroom apartments range in size from 30 to 50 square metres and are fully furnished with living areas, bedrooms and well-equipped kitchenettes – perfect for short breaks, urban escapes, extended stays and family vacations in Kuala Lumpur. The interior design reflects Bukit Bintang’s heritage as a hotspot of entertainment, with wavy walls depicting cinema hall curtains and artworks featuring movie motifs, and each apartment is integrated with smart technology, including fast and free Wi-Fi, a large flatscreen IPTV with Chrome casting, a mobile charging dock and Lola, the personal digital concierge.

With round-the-clock services and high-speed internet in every corner of the property, Capri by Fraser is ideal for the new generation of digital nomads, free-spirited urban adventurers and anyone who needs to stay in touch with their home, office or social media platforms. For guests staying in the chic Studio Premier and One Bedroom Premier apartments, an extra level of personalised hospitality is available at Pow Wow, the dramatic top floor lounge with 360-degree views.

To keep guests safe, all team members at Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang have been fully-vaccinated and Frasers Hospitality’s global FraserCares programme comprises a wide range of world-class health and safety protocols, including the use of a patented, chemical-free, child-friendly cleaning system to eliminate germs.

“Capri by Fraser is one of the most innovative concepts in the serviced residence sector, catering for explorers who have a millennial mindset and lead ‘always-on’ lives that blur the boundaries between work and play. Since the opening of our first Capri by Fraser property in 2012, this intuitive, socially-inspired concept has emerged in many of the world’s most fashionable urban districts. This makes it the perfect fit for Kuala Lumpur, one of Asia’s most iconic and engaging cities. We look forward to welcoming our community of experience-seeking guests to Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang,” said Ms. Tonya Khong, Senior Vice President, Head of Asia Pacific, Frasers Hospitality.

Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang becomes the 10th Capri by Fraser property in a global portfolio that now includes trend-setting cities such as Barcelona, Berlin, Brisbane, Ho Chi Minh City and Singapore. It also becomes Frasers Hospitality’s third property in Malaysia, joining Fraser Place Puteri Harbour and Capri by Fraser Johor Bahru.

To celebrate its launch, Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang has revealed an exclusive opening promotion. Guests get 50% off their first stay, and Fraser World members will receive another 20% off to book a stay at participating Fraser World properties. Discounted rates start from just MYR 238 nett per night, valid until 31st March 2022.

About Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang
Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang is a smart, lifestyle-led hotel residence in the heart of downtown Kuala Lumpur. Soaring 43 storeys high and surrounded by vibrant attractions, this sleek property features 319 contemporary studios and one-bedroom apartments, all fully furnished and enabled with smart technology and a digital concierge. Facilities include The Den, a two-level social hub and dining area, Spin & Play laundrette and games room, and an elevated high-tech gym and saltwater pool. The arrival process is expedited with a fully automated car park and self-check-in kiosks, and The Fixer is on hand to offer insider tips and ensure that every stay runs smoothly. With 24-7 services and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout, Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang is ideal for the new generation of digital nomads and free-spirited urban adventurers.

About Frasers Hospitality
Frasers Hospitality, a member of Frasers Property Group, celebrates 23 years of offering memorable experiences to guests through its Gold-Standard serviced, hotel residences and boutique lifestyle hotels across Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Growing from two properties in Singapore to more than 120 properties in over 70 cities, Frasers Hospitality is now one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing providers of serviced and hotel residences. Conceived with the lifestyle preferences of today’s discerning business and leisure travellers in mind, the global hospitality operator has three Gold-Standard serviced residences offerings – Fraser Suites, Fraser Place and Fraser Residence, a modern and eco-lifestyle brand, Modena by Fraser, and a design-led hotel residence brand, Capri by Fraser. In addition, it operates two brands of upscale boutique lifestyle hotels in the key cities of UK, Malmaison and Hotel du Vin.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Amazing Tourism Transformation During Visit Thailand Year 2022

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Amazing Tourism Transformation During Visit Thailand Year 2022 - VISITTHAILAND.net - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, February 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Tourism Authority of Thailand is moving forward with its goal to revitalise and transform Thai tourism, with the ‘Visit Thailand Year 2022: Amazing New Chapters’ campaign, and formulating a DASH model to help revive the tourism sector and the Thai economy overall.

The Visit Thailand Year 2022: Amazing New Chapters campaign was initially introduced globally at the World Travel Market in London, in line with the country’s quarantine-free reopening to international travellers from 1 November, 2021.

• Discover secondary destinations in amazing Thailand during the Visit Thailand Year 2022 – Amazing Chapters

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said, “With the Visit Thailand Year 2022: Amazing New Chapters, TAT envisions change towards stronger and sustainable, more responsible, more digital, and more inclusive tourism growth, by leveraging on Thailand’s 5F, 4M soft-power foundations, which are Food, Film, Fashion, Festival, Fight, Music, Museum, Master, And Meta. To achieve this, TAT has formulated a ‘DASH’ model to set the entire organisation towards the single goal of transforming the tourism sector.”

D – Domestic travel: The model places emphasis on both tourists and operators in the tourism industry;

A – Accelerate Demand: The model seeks to stimulate qualitative demand, build trust, and a good image by placing focus on tourists’ safety, targeting high-income segments, and delivering impressively different and valuable experiences;

S – Shape Supply: The model looks set to elevate the tourism ecosystem to quality and sustainability based on responsible tourism and digital tourism for all parties to benefit together, and resulting in sustainable income distribution to each sector;

H – Healing Thai Economy: The model focuses on helping to revive the Thai economy through tourism with the country’s reopening to ensure a fast recovery and strong, sustainable growth.

Mr. Yuthasak said, “With the DASH model in place, TAT is placing greater emphasis on domestic tourism. For international tourism, TAT is introducing a new ‘Amazing Thailand Workplace Paradise’ project, with the aim to make Thailand the World’s No. 1 Remote Workers Friendly Destination.”

The Amazing Thailand Workplace Paradise project will focus on remote workers from long-haul international markets, in response to a growing trend in light of the COVID-19 pandemic whereby people work remotely and enjoy a vacation.

For short-haul international markets, TAT will leverage on the TEST & GO entry scheme, highlighting ‘New Chapters, New Opportunity’ offerings. New segments will be targeted; such as; bleisure (business and leisure), students, digital nomads, and soft adventure. New areas will be set to attract quality segments from potential markets like Mongolia and South Korea (Busan), and to seek new partners in existing markets. New infrastructure will be promoted; such as, new transport routes – especially the high-speed rail linking Kunming and Lao PDR, which can connect to Thailand’s Nong Khai Province. New way will focus on inspiring millennials to experience Thailand in an environmentally-friendly and sustainable way.

Within the country, TAT will highlight a 3-Ex concept – Experience, Expectation, and Extraordinary – to inspire domestic travel with 3 ideas for tourism products and services; namely, Nature to Keep, Food to Explore, and Thainess to Discover with five colours representing the regions of Thailand.

Crimson for the Central Region – Chic Central; emerald for the Eastern Region – East at Ease; navy for the Northern Region – North Nostalgia; ivory for the Northeastern Region – Isan in Love, and silver for the Southern Region – Savoury South.

In line with the DASH model and tourism marketing strategies, TAT will place emphasis on creating innovative travel experiences for the targeted segments – workcation and staycation, wellness, sports, and responsible tourism. Aimed at both local and international tourists, there will be a plethora of tourism offerings designed in response to a growing trend, including astronomical tourism, water tourism, community tourism – highlighting a happy model for both the tourists and the communities, and culinary tourism – focusing on health and organic lifestyle.

Mr. Yuthasak said, “TAT will continue to communicate with both local and international tourists through the long-standing ‘Amazing Thailand’ branding. A dedicated campaign will be used for the local market to inspire domestic travel. For the international market, TAT will use the ‘Amazing New Chapters’ campaign to promote Thai cultural values, under the ‘from A to Z Amazing Thailand has it all’ concept to inspire travellers from around the world to once again visit Thailand.”

• Discover secondary destinations in amazing Thailand during the Visit Thailand Year 2022 – Amazing Chapters

Last but not least, TAT will be elevating its innovation approach with a plan to introduce a TAT Amazing Influencer, using the virtual character technology to create a personalised experience in the Metaverse virtual world. TAT is also planning to promote Thai tourism through digital art with a TAT NFTs starting with local wisdom products. In addition, TAT will enhance marketing and digital knowledge by creating a hybrid work system allowing staff to work remotely effectively in line with the plan to promote Thailand as a remote workers friendly destination. To maintain TAT’s positioning as a high-performance organisation, emphasis will continue to be a place on the proper management of resources and waste both internally and externally.

With Thai tourism transformation under this year’s strategic plans, TAT expects to generate a total revenue of 1.28 trillion Baht with 656 billion Baht from the domestic market (160 million trips) and 625 billion Baht from the international market (10 million tourists). The average expenditure for domestic tourists is estimated at 4,100 Baht per person, and for foreign tourists at 62,580 Baht per person.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News