Global Travel News

ROUND-UP:Jan. 24-28, 2021

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More countries are easing entry rules; Canadian athletes set off to Beijing; Rocky Mountaineer introduced a new partner; Carnival is sticking to its COVID plan; and registrations opened for ExploreGB – all in this week’s highlights of last week’s news!

NEWS

Effective Jan. 28, the modified pre-departure test requirements for travellers coming to Canada on direct or indirect flights from India or Morocco were removed. Travellers from these countries are no longer be required to obtain a valid negative pre-departure COVID-19 test from a third country. All travellers entering Canada are now subject to the same pre-entry test requirements, regardless of their departure country.

The airport in Kelowna, BC, has received $15 million in federal funding for upgrades to infrastructure, including for the flow of passengers and crew being tested for COVID-19. Some of the improvements include replacing airfield lighting, sections of the terminal building’s roof and the construction of runway areas.

The BC Court of Appeal dismissed WestJet’s efforts to overturn the certification of a class-action lawsuit on baggage fees. The Calgary-based airline is alleged to have between September 2014 and March 2019 published two prices for checked bags, one that was free and then charged passengers another that was higher. WestJet ultimately amended wording in its domestic tariff to remove that one checked bag will be free.

ENTRY NEW

Declaring that border testing of vaccinated travellers has “outlived its usefulness,” the British government announced that it is scrapping coronavirus testing requirements for people arriving in England effective Feb. 11 – news hailed by the travel industry as a big step back to normality.

The Cayman Islands reports that it has officially entered Phase 5 of its phased reopening plan, whereby children aged 11 years and younger will be permitted to travel to the destination accompanied by vaccinated adults regardless of the child’s vaccination status. In addition, quarantine requirements for all travellers are shortened to seven days from 10, and testing protocols have been altered – now requiring travellers to submit a lateral flow test (LFT) on days two, five and seven of their stay.

Updated entry protocols in Aruba mean Canadians (and other nationalities deemed high risk) now have the option of taking an antigen test one day prior or a PCR test up to two days prior to travelling to Aruba. Tests cannot be taken on arrival. Visitors 12 and older, who have tested positive using a molecular Covid-19 test by nasopharyngeal swab between 10 days and 12 weeks prior to travel date to Aruba, and do not show any symptoms, will be exempt from the requirement of providing a negative COVID-19 test result for entry. Full details can be found on the aruba.com website.

Vaccinated tourists visiting Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates no longer need to show proof of a booster shot to enter. The tourism specific change comes as confusion swirls around entry rules for Abu Dhabi, which has taken a more stringent approach to containing the coronavirus than UAE neighbour Dubai, prompting the former to erect a hard border with the latter, forcing all drivers to come to a halt for vaccination and COVID checks on what once had been a wide, empty highway before the virus struck.

BY THE NUMBERS

The World Health Organization reported that a shipment of 1.1 million COVID-19 vaccines to Rwanda on Jan. 15 included the billionth dose supplied via COVAX. However, the WHO noted that as of Jan. 13, 36 of its 194 member states had vaccinated less than 10 percent of their population, and 88 less than 40%.

AIR

Air Canada’s flight AC2201 from Vancouver to Beijing on Jan. 26 marked the first of three special charter flights transporting Team Canada to the Beijing 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The plane featured a special livery for the occasion. The airline also introduced a comprehensive program to support the athletes.

New carrier Canada Jetlines has received conditional approval for flight crew (pilot) training from Transport Canada. Final approval of the training program will be granted once Transport Canada has reviewed the training conducted under the program and it proves to be satisfactory. The carrier plans to launch this spring.

Air France reports that it’s free “Ready To Fly” service continues to be deployed across its network, including now for domestic flight where vaccination is mandatory. To reduce the time required to process the submitted documents, Air France says it is replacing the manual verification of the vaccine pass with an automated check, ensuring customers travelling in France receive instant confirmation. The service is currently available on more than 140 routes on departure from 80 airports, including flights to France on departure from Europe and Canada.

DEALS

Clients can save up to 15% on Collette tours in North America for bookings made between Jean 26 and Feb. 4 for travel through the end of the year. Use offer code EXPLORE22. Some restrictions apply.

Two or more passengers travelling to Dubai on Emirates by April 30, and booking by Feb. 6, can save 25% on fares when travelling together. The offer is valid on return trips booked in economy or business classes by travel agents or via emirates.com/ca. Travellers can also take advantage of other perks, including receiving a free Emirates Expo Pass and My Emirates city pass (valid until March 31).

HOTELS

IHG Hotels & Resorts first Vignette Collection property in Asia will open in Bangkok in March. The 393-room Sindhorn Midtown is part of IHG’s newest luxury and lifestyle brand and follows the opening of Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok in 2020. Both hotels are situated within Sindhorn Village, a development project in the area of Langsuan Road and Soi Tonson.

Committed to continued growth, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts reports that it has more than 50 new projects under planning or development, including in Italy, Spain, China, Japan, Colombia, Belize, and across key markets in the US, all of which will add to the company’s existing portfolio of 122 hotels and resorts and 48 residential properties in 47 countries around the world.

RESORTS

AMR Collection says that due to equipment and product delivery delays resulting from the omicron variant, both Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen and Secrets Impression Moxché in Mexico will delay their openings until April 18, and June 1, respectively.

TOURS

American Queen Voyages has partnered with Rocky Mountaineer to offer a pre- and post-cruise luxury rail City Stay Package for the inaugural season of Ocean Victory. Travelling through the Canadian Rockies between Calgary and Vancouver, the opulent add-on option is available for six sailings from May to September. The “Landscapes & Luxury Rocky Mountaineer City Stay Package” is available as a six-day pre-cruise option for guests booked on Ocean Victory May 2, 23; June 13; July 4, 25; Aug 15; Sept 5, and as a five-day post-cruise on May 28; June 18; July 9, 30; Aug 20; and Sep 10. The brand-new expedition ship Ocean Victory will sail between Vancouver, and Sitka, Alaska on 13-day journeys and feature ports of call that larger ships cannot access.

A new in-depth, eight-day exploration of the Swiss and Bavarian Alps, highlighted by a performance of the traditional Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany, has been introduced by Tauck. The “Swiss Highlands & Bavarian Alps” tour runs from May to September and starts in Bern, Switzerland.

CRUISE

Carnival says it will continue to operate – and expand – its current COVID-19 protocols, including sailing vaccinated voyages, requiring pre-embarkation testing, and following onboard indoor mask requirements “until further notice.”

Redesigned tier structures, which simplify reaching the next tier mark, are a key enhancement of Norwegian Cruise Lines Latitudes Rewards Program for loyalty members. The refreshed program features seven tiers, including new Diamond and Sapphire levels, replacing the Platinum tier. Fewer points are also mostly required to reach each level. Latitudes members will also have access to special offers and new onboard experiences, such as cabin upgrades, wine tasting, package discounts, and more. First-time guests are automatically enrolled in the program.

Cunard will be taking Shakespeare and new works to the high seas in 2022 as it joins forces in a first-of-its-kind partnership with Britain’s Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) to bring world class theatre to its transatlantic stage. Available exclusively on board the flagship Queen Mary 2, the three-year partnership will run May 29-Aug. 12, and then again from Sept. 15 to Nov. 13.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

LEGOLAND Parks and luxury sports car brand Ferrari have announced the world’s first LEGO Ferrari “Build and Race” interactive attraction is coming to LEGOLAND California Resort this spring. Featuring a life-size Ferrari F40 model developed by the LEGO Group, Build and Race puts guests in the driver’s seat as they make their way through the “garage” to the “racetrack” using their creativity and imagination to build, test and race their own LEGO Ferrari.

Meanwhile, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto is reopening Feb. 3. The attraction has introduced enhanced cleaning measures throughout the day to clean and sanitize the attraction, including high-frequency touchpoints, play areas, and LEGO bricks.

EVENTS

Buyer registration is now open for VisitBritain’s annual trade show ExploreGB, which will take place virtually again this year, from March 22 to 24. The event hosts hundreds of pre-scheduled one-to-one virtual business meetings over the three days giving international buyers the opportunity to do business with top travel industry suppliers and destinations from across the UK and forge valuable business connections. Buyers control their own meeting diary and can arrange meetings around their other commitments, it is not compulsory to attend for the whole three days. There will also be a series of webinars to help boost knowledge of the UK as a visitor destination. Register .

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Santa Monica Travel & Tourism (SMTT) has appointed Pulse Travel Marketing as its new Canadian representative. The agency, under Sana Keller and Annika Klint, is tasked with creating brand awareness and ensuring that the Southern California destination is prominently positioned with the travel trade, and key distribution media channels across Canada through strategic trade, marketing, and communications programs.

DESTINATIONS

The historic ocean liner Queen Mary, which has been a Southern California tourist attraction and hotel for decades, is being prepared for “critical repairs,” according to officials in the city of Long Beach, which owns the ship. The ship will remain closed, except for film location work, until the $5 million worth of repairs are completed, a city statement said last week.

Visit Tampa Bay has launched the Riverwalk Attraction Pass, a new program connecting venues along the Tampa Riverwalk in one ticket that provides discounts to users. Similar to the CityPASS program, the Pass brings together many attractions but also enables museums and centres that would have been traditionally excluded to be part of a holistic program. Initial attractions participants include the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, Henry B. Plant Museum, Florida Aquarium, Glazer Children’s Museum, Tampa Museum of Art, Tampa Bay History Center, and the Pirate Water Taxi. Users access a mobile landing page on the Visit Tampa Bay website to purchase the Pass and after receiving a link to their pass, can add it to their home screen on their mobile devices, where it is scanned for admission.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Banyan Tree Krabi Appoints New General Manager

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Banyan Tree Krabi Appoints New General Manager - TRAVELINDEXKrabi, Thailand, January 30, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts has announced that Mr Nigel Fisher, an Australian national with 37 years’ experience in luxury hotel management across Asia and Australia, has been appointed General Manager of its beachfront resort in Krabi, which opened in October 2020.

After graduating from Switzerland’s prestigious École hôtelière de Lausanne in 1985, Fisher returned to Australia to join Hyatt International Hotels, where he would spend the next 15 years. In the 2000s, he was Resident Manager at the Four Seasons Sydney and at the Great Barrier Reef’s Hayman Island.

He took on the role of General Manager at leading hotels in Malaysia and the Philippines before moving to Banyan Tree in 2015. From his first post at Banyan Tree Huangshan in China, he stepped up as Area GM for Lijiang and Ringha. Fisher oversaw the opening of the Angsana Penang, before being lured across the border to southern Thailand.

“Nigel is a seasoned professional with a passion for Asian culture and a strong command of Asian values,” said Remko Kroesen, the Area General Manager for Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi. “He brings a wealth of experience from some of the world’s top hotels — knowledge which will be instrumental in establishing Banyan Tree Krabi as a leading resort in the region.”

No one doubts that taking the helm of a new 5-star hotel during the time of a global pandemic will present its own set of challenges, added Kroesen. “However, Banyan Tree Krabi is a pristine new resort with the highest standards of health and hygiene management. When this Covid crisis has finally run its course, travellers from all over the world will be thirsty for a tropical paradise, and we want to make sure we have a red carpet rolled out for them,” he said.

Located on secluded Tubkaek Beach, Banyan Tree Krabi is flanked to the rear by a forested national park while facing out towards a sea of karst limestone towers — undoubtedly one of Thailand’s most iconic and enduring images — which are uninhabited and protected as a national marine park. The hotel is tiered into a lush landscape, all of which is dominated by a rollercoaster of mountains.

The resort offers 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom beachfront Presidential Villa. Each of the rooms faces the sea and the sunset as the property tiers into the hillside.

Facilities include two restaurants and a beach bar, a beach club, a kids’ club, a fitness center, meeting rooms, and – in keeping with Banyan Tree’s wellness branding – a rainforest-themed spa.

Unique highlights include Banyan Tree’s signature Thai restaurant, Saffron, perched high above the bay, alongside a wedding deck, both of which are accessible by electric funicular.

ABOUT BANYAN TREE HOLDINGS LIMITED

Banyan Tree Holdings Limited (“Banyan Tree” or the “Group”) is a leading international operator and developer of premium resorts, hotels, residences and spas, with 47 hotels and resorts, 63 spas, 72 retail galleries, and three golf courses in 24 countries. Each resort typically has between 75 to 300 rooms and commands room rates at the higher end of each property’s particular market.

The Group’s primary business is centered on four brands: the award-winning Banyan Tree and Angsana, as well as newly established Cassia and Dhawa. Banyan Tree also operates the leading integrated resort in Thailand – Laguna Phuket — through the Group’s subsidiary, Laguna Resorts & Hotels Public Company Limited. Two other integrated resorts – Laguna Bintan in Indonesia and Laguna Lăng Cô in Central Vietnam – complete the status of the Group as the leading operator of integrated resorts in Asia.

As a leading operator of spas in Asia, Banyan Tree’s spas are one of the key features in their resorts and hotels. Its retail arm Banyan Tree Gallery complements and reinforces the branding of the resort, hotel and spa operations.

Since the launch of the first Banyan Tree resort, Banyan Tree Phuket, in 1994, Banyan Tree has received over 2,600 awards and accolades for the resorts, hotels and spas that the Group manages. The Group has also received recognition for its commitment to sustainability for environmental protection and emphasis on corporate social responsibility.

In addition to its currently operating hotels, resorts, spas and golf courses, the Group currently has 21 hotels and resorts under construction, and another 25 under development.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Bhutan Foundation Welcomes New Advisory Council Members

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The Bhutan Foundation Welcomes New Advisory Council Members - TRAVELINDEXThimphu, Bhutan, January 29, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Bhutan Foundation introduced five new Bhutan Foundation Advisory Council members. The Advisory Council is a group of internationally distinguished leaders, professionals, and experts on issues ranging from climate change to sustainability, healthcare, education, governance, and south asian affairs. Their combined expertise helps guide the Bhutan Foundation. The newest members include Hon. Curtis Chin, Dr. Lisa Danzig, Mr. Dechen Dorji, Dr. Steve Harris, and Hon. Kenneth Juster.

Hon. Curtis S. Chin is a Milken Institute Asia fellow and has served as a trustee of World Education Services of New York and is a former U.S. ambassador to the Asian Development Bank. As a member of the ADB board, he pushed for strengthened governance, risk management and development efforts focused on people, planet, and partnership, particularly on infrastructure projects in Asia’s least-developed nations. Through his advisory firm RiverPeak Group LLC, Chin now advises a range of startup firms and impact investors in Asia, including Equator Pure Nature, a leading ASEAN-based, natural consumer products company and cleantech pioneer, and the Dolma Impact Fund, the first international equity fund focused on Nepal. Chin previously was a senior executive with Burson-Marsteller in the US, Switzerland, and Asia, where he oversaw Beijing and Hong Kong operations.

Mr. Dechen Dorji is the Senior Director for Asia at WWF-US. Dechen oversees WWF-US’s wildlife efforts in Asia, working closely with their goal teams and leadership, WWF’s country offices, and the Wildlife Practice and other WWF initiatives to help develop, implement and mobilize resources for our wildlife conservation priorities in Asia. Dechen isn’t new to the WWF organization, previously serving for seven years as WWF’s Country Representative in Bhutan, where he led a number of successful conservation efforts, notably the ‘Bhutan for Life’ initiative, through which he worked closely with our leadership and the former Bhutanese Prime Minister to raise $43 million, and launched some of Bhutan’s first nationwide conservation efforts for threatened species such as tigers, Snow leopards and Golden Mahseer. Dechen also received the National Order of Merit, Gold, from His Majesty the King for the Bhutan for Life initiative and his services to the Bhutanese environmental sector.

Dr. Lisa Danzig is Chief Medical Officer at Excision BioTherapeutics and prior to that she was Chief Medical Officer at PaxVax, a specialty vaccine company in Redwood City, California. She also serves as an advisory to Pandefense Advisory and is the co-founder and managing partner of Amicitiam Partners. Dr. Danzig is an expert in vaccines. She has contributed to the development of meningococcal vaccines (Menjugate®, Menveo® and Bexsero®) and has worked in Siena, Italy, Cambridge, MA, and Hangzhou, China. During her two years as an EIS officer with the U.S. CDC, she investigated outbreaks of healthcare associated infections and taught epidemiology in Côte d’Ivoire to district health officers in West Africa. Dr. Danzig has been involved with Bhutan for many years through the Karuna Foundation and also serves as an advisor to the pandemic response in Bhutan.

Dr. Steve Harris worked as a telecommunications/internet lawyer and executive for over 30 years. He then returned to his love of history and received a Ph.D. in Modern European History at UC Davis in 2015. He now teaches history of democracy, historiography, modern European, and world history at San Francisco State University, where he is also co-director of the History for the 21st Century Project.

Hon. Kenneth I. Juster has over forty years of experience as a senior government official, senior business executive, and senior law partner. He recently completed service as the twenty-fifth U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of India (2017–2021). He previously served in the U.S. government as Deputy Assistant to the President for International Economic Affairs, on both the National Security Council and the National Economic Council (2017), Under Secretary of commerce (2001–2005), Counselor (acting) of the State Department (1992–1993), and Deputy and Senior Advisor to Deputy Secretary of State Lawrence Eagleburger (1989–1992). In the private sector, Juster has been a Partner at the global investment firm Warburg Pincus (2010–2017), Executive Vice President at Salesforce.com (2005–2010), and a Senior Partner at the law firm Arnold & Porter. He is currently Senior Counselor at the global law firm Freshfields, Senior Adviser at the institutional investor CDPQ, Strategic Adviser at the software company Salesforce, and Distinguished Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. Ambassador Juster developed a long-term friendship with Bhutan when he was Ambassador to India. He supported the funding of many new U.S. government initiatives in Bhutan, such as enhancing STEM Education and the restoration of the Wangduechhoeling Palace through the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Raffles and Fairmont Hotels to Open in Qatar Next Year

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Raffles and Fairmont Hotels to Open in Qatar Next Year - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXDoha, Qatar, January 29, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Katara Hospitality, a leading global hotel owner, developer and operator based in Qatar, announced a new partnership with Accor, a world-leading hospitality group with the two-fold signing of Raffles and Fairmont hotels in Qatar. The management agreement was signed by His Excellency Sheikh Nawaf Bin Jassim Bin Jabor Al-Thani, Chairman of Katara Hospitality and Mr. Sébastien Bazin, Chairman & CEO of Accor.

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

The agreement signing was held at Katara Hospitality headquarters in Doha in the presence of Katara Hospitality Management represented by Mr. Andrew Humphries, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kamal Rhazali, General Counsel, Mr. Irfan Sharief, Chief Asset Management Officer, Mr. Juan Aguilar, Acting Chief Technical Officer. As well as Accor Management represented by Mr. Mark Willis, CEO India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey and Mr. Gaurav Bhushan, CEO of Accor’s Lifestyle Brands.

The agreement consolidates the long-standing partnership between Accor and Katara Hospitality, whom already own several landmark hotels managed by Accor, with the property set to open in 2022. Once completed, the Fairmont Hotel and Raffles Hotel & Residences will join the brand’s worldwide portfolio, known to be the world’s largest collection of historic and iconic hotels. As with any Fairmont property around the world, guests will find themselves immersed in a local authentic environment. Similarly when visiting the Raffles, guests will discover the individual personality and story offered by the hotel. At the essence of every Raffles is to deliver thoughtful, personal and discreet service to well-travelled guests.

On this occasion, His Excellency Sheikh Nawaf bin Jassim bin Jabor Al Thani, Chairman, Katara Hospitality said: “Katara Hospitality is one of the first investors that understood the significance of the project, committing to developing the hospitality icon of Doha for the 21st Century in the State of Qatar. We are confident the ethos of Accor brand is a strategic fit for this iconic project as it is important that we have an operator who understands our vision and strategy, while ensuring it occupies its rightful position in the local and global marketplaces when it opens next year.”

“The world’s most loved cities are often identified through imagery and landmark buildings. We strongly believe the property we are developing will provide Qatar with an architectural symbol that is known and understood right across the globe. Our aim is to create the hospitality icon of the 21st Century that is within one of the world’s most exciting urban developments. Our vision is to set new standards that go beyond the borders of the hospitality industry and provide a landmark location that is instantly recognised internationally,” HE added.

“While we regard 2022 as a milestone in the country’s development, this new property in Lusail will also occupy a focal point for residents and travellers during the FIFA World Cup. We believe that this is our opportunity to showcase a country that has grown into an international destination and Katara Hospitality will create the landmark to underpin lifetime memories.”

Sheikh Nawaf concluded: “As Qatar National Vision 2030 creates the perfect framework for us, we will continue to develop peerless hospitality at home and abroad that are not only jewels in our portfolio but are emblematic for Qatar as well.”

Sebastien Bazin, Chairman & CEO of Accor commented, “We are extremely excited to announce this iconic property and to showcase it on the world stage in the years to come. The arrival of the Raffles and Fairmont brands in Qatar marks an important milestone for Accor, as we endeavour to bring their distinctive levels of quality and luxurious service to residents and travellers alike. We thank Katara, one of our most valued partners, for once again entrusting us with such a unique project, which is set to become a landmark, not only in Qatar, but in the region.”

Symbolically intertwined with Qatar’s heritage, the Iconic Towers in Lusail are an architectural translation of Qatar’s national seal, representing the traditional scimitar swords. Raising gracefully from the podium level, the arched towers will host a luxurious five-star hotel with 361 rooms and suites to cater to discerning business travellers, a lavish six-star hotel with 132 suites to meet the needs of those seeking sophisticated luxury accommodation and 49 branded apartments to become home to permanent residents. State-of-the-art entertainment and recreational facilities, including specialist boutiques, VIP movie theatres, signature restaurants and a private Cigar Lounge are to be complemented by exquisite banqueting and conference spaces, as well as office dedicated areas.

“We believe Qatar to be an ideal place to spend a few days in the Middle East: there is a rich variety of beaches, it features year round sunshine, and the food is equal to the best the region has to offer” said Mr. Andrew Humphries, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Katara Hospitality. We are happy to collaborate again with Accor to open the first Raffles and Fairmont properties in Qatar, which we believe will position Qatar as a leading luxury, lifestyle and conference destination locally and globally”.

“This is a unique opportunity to consolidate Fairmont and Raffles image in the Middle East, with both hotels sitting in on of the most iconic building of the region, indeed an incredible showcase for both brands”, said Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey.

Mark Willis adds: “We expect that these properties, with their iconic design and unrivalled presence, will become an architectural emblem and reference in Luxury in Doha”.

Accor currently operates six properties (1,378 keys) in Qatar across five brands including Movenpick, Mondrian and MGallery, with nine additional hotels (2,920 keys) in the pipeline.

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

Having been at the forefront of the hospitality industry for over 50 years, Katara Hospitality has built a portfolio of iconic hotels in Qatar and key international gateways. An experienced hotel owner, developer and operator, the group has been a hospitality pioneer in Qatar.

Today, Katara Hospitality’s portfolio of operating hotels and those under development has reached 42 assets globally, encompassing over 8,000 rooms, while it aims to reach 60 properties by 2030.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

First Tanzanian Balloon Flight over Mount Kilimanjaro

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First Tanzanian Balloon Flight over Mount Kilimanjaro - VISITTANZANIA.org - TRAVELINDEXKilimanjaro, Tanzania, January 28, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Captain Abeid Soka of Serengeti Balloon Safaris flies a balloon over Mount Kilimanjaro. “Ooh it was cold up there!” exclaimed Captain Abeid Soka, Chief Pilot and Director of Flight Operations of Serengeti Balloon Safaris. He had just been part of an exclusive group of the world’s top balloon pilots, who flew their balloons over the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in December 2021. This incredible adventure was arranged by Josep Maria Llado, the founder of Ultramagic Balloons, a true adventurer at heart who has once before arranged a flight over Africa’s highest mountain.

“We took off from Usseri, very near the Kenya border on the eastern side of the mountain and ascended steeply through the clouds, within 55 minutes we were above the height of Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second highest peak, before descending over the saddle and climbing again.

“By this point were breathing oxygen though nasal tubes, which we had been doing from 10,000ft, this is an important safety measure, particularly with a fast climb. Even the burners needed oxygen, injected through specifically designed ports.

“After a few more minutes, we were flying over the summit and the crater of Kibo, the highest point on the African continent. Carrying my Tanzanian flag as I looked down deep into the crater was an incredibly proud moment,” says Captain Soka. “It was amazingly clear up there, that image will never leave me.”

After flying over the summit, they had to climb again; downwind of a mountain peak, there can be sharp downdrafts, so they had to be prepared by climbing further.

There were eleven balloons in total, each with 2 pilots, who were selected from some of the very best balloon pilots from across the globe, chosen for their experience in mountain flying, which is unique for its weather and terrain conditions as well as challenging temperatures. Planning was meticulous and they waited 4 days for the perfect weather to make this achievement successful and safe. Each balloon carried 300kg of fuel and many landed with only half of that used.

“Knowing that I was the first and only pilot from Tanzania to be part of this incredible achievement, it was humbling,” exclaimed the beaming Abeid. “After clearing the summit and stabilizing the flight in the downward moving air currents, we flew low over Shira plateau, across the Londorrosi forest and out over the farmlands of West Kilimanjaro before selecting a clear space for a gentle landing.”

Captain Abeid is from the Chagga tribe that call Kilimanjaro home and the mountain of God, he grew up on the southern slopes of the mountain, so it was a particularly special occasion for him to be able to take part in this feat. He’s been flying balloons since 2010, when he went to Europe and America, sponsored by Serengeti Balloon Safaris, to attain his private and then commercial balloon pilot licences. He’s been Chief Pilot since 2015 and was made Tanzania’s first ballooning examiner by the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority in 2021.

Other pilots included Josep Maria Llado and two of his daughters, the world no 1 pilot, from Germany, also Swiss, Belgian, American pilots and Ramses Vanneste and his father, Ramses has been a pilot for Serengeti Balloon Safaris, off and on for 10 years.

Abeid is now back in Serengeti, flying over the much smaller hills that we encounter there but he will never forget this extraordinary experience.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Aria Resort Sets Standards on Las Vegas Strip with Revamped Ultra-Luxury Skyvillas

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Aria Resort Sets Standards on Las Vegas Strip with Revamped Ultra-Luxury Skyvillas - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXLas Vegas, Nevada, United States, January 28, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Aria Resort thought of everything, so you can forget it all. The 2,060 square-foot Sky Suites Two Bedroom Penthouse is the ultimate in contemporary sophistication. Luxuries include custom residential decor, unmatched amenities, dramatic views of Las Vegas, our signature one-touch room controls and, of course, exclusivity. Las Vegas may be your destination, but it won’t be until you enter your Penthouse that you’ll realize you’ve arrived.

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

The seven superlative two-bedroom Skyvillas flaunt a unique palette, personality, and layout. The designers hit a bull’s-eye with a soft contemporary design aesthetic inside that displays a contrasting, brightly-lit Vegas through the floor-to-ceiling windows on the outside. The tasteful, individualistic jewel-toned furnishings give the room a touch of regality. While utterly lavish, the living rooms also create an intimate ambiance with flow-through sofas and furniture. All said and done, the suites and Skyvillas are Aria’s highlight, and luckily for regular Richie Richs, they just got even better.

The Sky Suites are commodious rooms ranging from 1,050 to 2,060 square feet inundated with muted blues and silvers. The suites impress with their mid-century modern styling, seen in one- and two-bedroom accommodations. Sky Suites offer their guests a personal concierge, private pool, private entrance, and some moments of frivolity with game kits such as backgammon, checkers, and chess. While the high rollers can always go to the casino floor for guests who would want to soak up the luxury of the suites they can try live roulette games. Something more adventurous on your mind? The 24-hour concierge team is at your disposal to secure difficult last-minute reservations, tickets, and the like.

Anton Nikodemus, President & COO of Aria, said, “In reimagining Aria’s Skyvillas and Sky Suites, our crown jewels, we took great care to consider what would enhance and differentiate ARIA’s award-winning experience. Inspiring design and breathtaking views are complemented by exceptional, detail-oriented service, creating unparalleled stays for our guests.”

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

These 2,000- to 7,000-square-foot residences sit at the apex of Aria, offering posh art-deco bathrooms (stocked with the likes of Hermès, Bulgari, or Creed products), blue-chip art, and fully-stocked caparisoned bars, among other fancy aspects. Skyvillas come with their own in-villa kitchens for esteemed guests who are particular about their tastes and don’t find à la carte tempting. Aria puts a celebrity chef in charge of preparing a memorable meal followed by a cigar sommelier, who, if called upon, will bring up a selection of impossible-to-find offerings. Before these high-tech accouterments even begin to work their charm, guests are floored with Rolls-Royce Phantoms and Champagne-baring butlers who whisk them directly up to their accommodations.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LIFE IS A HIGHWAY: Nations establish ‘ocean’ reserve

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Ecuador, in partnership with regional neighbours Colombia, Panama, and Costa Rica, has created a new marine reserve to help protect the environmentally sensitive Galapagos Islands and, at the same time, create an “ocean highway” to Costa Rica’s Coco Islands marine reserve.

Called Hermandad or “Brotherhood,” the new reserve expands the total protected marine area around the Galapagos archipelago by 45% to 193,000 sq. km.

A ceremonial signing event took place in the Galapagos recently led by Ecuadorian President Guillermo Lasso and including Colombian president Ivan Duque and the foreign ministers of both Panama and Costa Rica. Other dignitaries on hand included former US president Bill Clinton and noted marine biologist and conservationist Doctor Sylvia Earle.

“There are places that have made a mark on the history of humanity and today we have the honour of being in one of those places. These islands that welcome us have taught us many things about ourselves. So, instead of acting as the absolute masters of these lands and seas, shouldn’t we act as their protectors?” said Lasso.

The new reserve extends to the northeast of the Galapagos following a migratory route used by millions of sea turtles, whales, sharks, and rays — thereby joining two marine UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The creation of the reserve follows declarations at COP26 in Glasgow late last year by the four nations to work together to create a huge Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor between their countries.

Ecuadorian officials said the decree “undoubtedly safeguards the life-affirming wildlife experiences our guests appreciate in the Galapagos. They will enjoy and cherish the same marine natural encounters — whether through coastal explorations with dinghies, kayaks, stand-up-paddle boards or glass-bottom boats, snorkeling or SCUBA diving — for decades to come…”

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PUBS, PATIOS & BARS: The Lit Lounge: How life should be!

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With the temperature in the minus 20s as I write this, the beautiful island of Anguilla is sounding pretty good right about now. And if I were there (sigh), there’s a reasonable chance I might be getting lit, if you’ll excuse the pun, at one of the Caribbean island’s hot new establishments, The Lit Lounge.

Opened in 2019, Lit Lounge is located in the bustling (by Anguillian standards) hub of Sandy Ground – a go-to spot on island for both breathtaking beaches and memorable nights.

Positioned right on the beach, beneath a banner that proclaims: “How life should be,” the two-story establishment is framed by palm trees and features a large bottom deck with seating, high tables, and a long bar, while the upper deck serves as a large lounge area overlooking the spectacular bay, usually crammed with boats at rest.

Sensational for dinner or drinks at sunset, the bar/restaurant really comes to life in the evening as locals and visitors alike “get lit,” dancing the night away to local bands and DJs playing pop, soca, reggae, and latin tunes. Thursday is karaoke night.

Patrons sip local Caribbean beers (like Red Stripe) or the branded “Lit Lager,” but the bar really steps up with a comprehensive list of cocktails, both standard (daquiris, margaritas, rum punch, etc.) and custom (Lit Knockout Punch, Blue Moon, Ginger Splash…) all curated by noted local mixologist Taffy Hodge.

In addition to a variety of pizzas, authentic Caribbean is a staple on the menu, from fried chicken to creole fish and Jamaican rice, and the Johnny Cake sliders come highly recommended. Lit has also recently partnered with Asian fusion restaurant Ethnik Cuisine to add a twist (including sushi rolls) to the offerings.

Tiny Anguilla is most easily reached from St. Martin via a half-hour fast ferry ride. The Lit Lounge is open daily from 6 p.m. “til late.” How life should be…

Sandy Ground, Anguilla

With glass purposefully in hand, we at Travel Industry Today continue our series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues. For more articles in the series, click here:

PREVIOUS ARTICLES: https://travelindustrytoday.com/pub-patio/

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Could Robots Breathe New Life Into the Tourism Industry?

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Could Robots Breathe New Life Into the Tourism Industry - TRAVELINDEXThe COVID-19 pandemic has hit the tourism and hospitality industry hard, making employees and travellers alike more wary of close human interaction. Could robots and other artificial intelligence (AI) technologies be the answer? To tackle this controversial question, Professor Seongseop Kim, Dr Youngjoon Choi, and Ph.D. student Mr Frank Badu-Baiden of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and their co-researchers conducted a timely online study comparing human- and robot-staffed hotels. The study provides fascinating insights into how the pandemic has changed tourists’ preferences and offers recommendations for hotels on taking the next step towards technology-driven service delivery.

Robots have long been part of a science-fiction future. Although it has taken a long time for this future to be realised, robots and other AI technologies have recently begun to take over some of the service functions in hotels. They may serve as cooks or cleaners, provide barista and butler services, or even welcome guests on the front desk. This trend is regarded by some as an “avenue for innovation and improved efficiency and profitability”, the researchers note. However, hotel guests may be less enthusiastic.

It is easy enough to understand why some customers do not immediately love the idea of being served by a robot. Hotels are a “symbol of hospitality”, say the researchers, “which manifests as human values or touch”. Indeed, part of the enjoyment of staying in a hotel is experiencing the “serene atmosphere of comfort and relaxation” conveyed by the service staff. When guests experience a personalised service and feel valued by employees who offer “kind gestures, such as smiles, greeting and pleasant eye contact”, they are more likely to feel an attachment to the hotel and to stay loyal to the brand.

Why, then, would hotels consider introducing robot services? One reason is that human service also has its downsides. For instance, the researchers note, when staff fail to deliver the expected level of service, guests may be dissatisfied and their “experiences may be marred”. Furthermore, as humans are fallible, occasional mistakes are inevitable and can result in inconvenience and even, at worst, litigation, financial loss and damage to the hotel’s reputation.

On a more positive note, the researchers explain, many people enjoy technological advancements, appreciate the “usefulness and ease of use” of service robots and like to show off their novel experience to others. They may experience “reduced waiting times for service delivery, fun, enjoyment, and flexibility” from robot service technology. There are also many advantages for hotels, which benefit from more efficient service delivery, reduced labour costs, greater standardisation, and improved productivity and competitiveness.

With mixed evidence to date on people’s attitudes towards robot hotel services, the researchers were interested in whether views may have changed with the current COVID-19 crisis, which has brought extensive social distancing measures and concern about human contact. They speculated that the “highly contagious” nature of COVID-19 may have made people more enthusiastic about robot services in hotels. After all, the researchers note, robots offer a reduced risk of infection, especially given the “high levels of interpersonal contact in human-serviced hotels”.

The study took place in the United States between May and September 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The data were collected in a series of four online studies with participants recruited through Amazon MTurk, an online participant panel. Between 113 and 171 participants were recruited for each study, with an approximately even split between men and women and a mean age of 36 to 40.

The participants were asked to imagine that they were planning to visit a city and had to choose from one of two hotels. They were then presented with pictures of a human-staffed hotel and a robot-staffed hotel. After comparing these pictures, which showed humans or robots working on the front desk, handling luggage, cooking, and so on, the participants were asked which hotel they would prefer to stay in.

In each study, the researchers sought to find out whether the participants’ preference for the robot-staffed hotel increased when they felt more at risk. This was important, the researchers explain, because “the anxiety caused by human contact and the perception of possible contagion can influence travelers to undertake risk-averse behaviors, such as avoiding human-staffed hotels”. Different kinds of information were provided to different participants so that some were made more aware of the pandemic while making their decisions.

The researchers also looked at whether the participants’ preferences changed according to, for instance, their level of concern about safety and social distancing and how they felt about innovative technology.

In a resounding show of support for AI concierges, butlers, and cleaners, the results of all four studies indicated a preference for the robot-staff hotel. The researchers concluded that the pandemic may have accelerated the acceptance of service robots because they are “beneficial for maintaining social distancing and reducing anxiety regarding contagion through human interaction”. Clearly, customers’ attitudes towards new technology can be changed by a “particular event or crisis”. The longer the current crisis goes on, the greater people will perceive the threat to be. This threat, the researchers predict, will be “imprinted on customers’ memories even after the COVID-19 crisis ends”.

Inevitably, therefore, health and hygiene standards will remain high for some time. Service robots equipped with AI can provide contactless services in a wide range of settings, such as hotels, restaurants, airports and events, to allay customers’ concerns about safety. However, facilities eager to provide this kind of service should be mindful of the researchers’ advice that to be successful, they will need to provide “clear instructions and guidelines to lower barriers to first-time users”. This will help to ensure that guests do not become frustrated by and reject the new technology.

Although their findings suggest that people are becoming more accepting of robot-service hotels, the researchers highlight an important potential caveat. They remind us that the participants who felt more at risk due to COVID-19 had a greater preference for the robot-staffed hotel. Once the pandemic is over and customers no longer feel so anxious about contagion, they may come to prefer human services again. The solution, the researchers suggest, lies in marketing and promotion. Hotels should target customers who feel particularly threatened by the pandemic by “promoting the health and safety aspects of service robots”.

The researchers’ novel findings suggest that in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, with concerns about health and safety running high, the time may be ripe for the hotel and tourism industry to expand the introduction of robot and AI services. The world is already moving rapidly toward the introduction of high-level technologies, and the pandemic offers a “good opportunity for pioneers to act”. Armed with the researchers’ timely insights, hotels may be better placed to capitalise on “the usefulness of service robots in maintaining social distancing and preventing the spread of infectious diseases”. This can only be good news for an industry dealt a formidable blow by COVID-19. What was once seen as a threat to the hospitality and tourism industry may now be its best means of survival.

Seongseop (Sam) Kim, Jengkeu Kim, Frank Badu-Baiden, Marily Giroux, and Youngjoon Choi (2021). Preference for Robot Service or Human Service in Hotels. Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic. International Journal of Hospitality Management, Vol. 93, 102795.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Welcomes Antigua and Barbuda as Newest Member

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UNWTO Welcomes Antigua and Barbuda as Newest Member - TRAVELINDEXSt. John, Antigua and Barbuda, January 27, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili met the Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda for the first time since the country became UNWTO’s 160th Member State.

The Caribbean destination became UNWTO’s newest Member State and eighth in the Caribbean region when its application was approved by the 24th Session of the General Assembly in December 2021. The Government appointed Dr. Dario Item, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Spain as its Permanent Representative to the UNWTO as well as its Head of Permanent Mission to the Organization.

Secretary-General Pololikashvili warmly welcomed Dr Item, receiving his credentials at the UNWTO headquarters in Madrid. Given the importance of tourism to the islands, the restart of tourism will bring economic growth and social opportunities. In 2020, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed 125,000 international arrivals and tourism receipts totalled US$349 million.

Now as a Member State, UNWTO and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda will work together to enhance the sector’s importance as a pillar of sustainable development, with innovation and tourism education shared priorities.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News