Global Travel News

A HISTORY OF WALT DISNEY WORLD

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From one theme park, two resort hotels and two golf courses, Walt Disney World Resort has evolved into world unto itself, which, in 2021 – 50 years after opening its gates for the first time – includes four theme parks, two water parks, more than two dozen resort hotels, Disney Vacation Club properties, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, 63 holes of championship golf, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Disney’s BoardWalk entertainment enclave and Disney Springs, a waterfront entertainment, dining, and shopping district.

As the Florida theme park destination looks ahead to its 50th anniversary celebrations, which start today (see previous story), here’s a look back at how it all came to be:

1965

Nov. 15 – Walt Disney and his brother Roy publicly announce plans for Disney World in a press conference held in downtown Orlando, Fla.

1966

Oct. 27 – Walt Disney records a film outlining plans for the Florida Project – including details for Disney World and the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow (EPCOT).

1966

Dec. 15 – Walt Disney dies, age 65

1967

May 30 – Groundbreaking officially kicks off construction of Walt Disney World Resort. Walt Disney’s brother, Roy O. Disney officially named the project “Walt Disney World” to ensure the world will always remember the man behind this historic dream.

1970

Jan. 16 – The Walt Disney World Preview Center opens in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., becoming the first location to welcome guests on Walt Disney World property. It features scale models and artist renderings for many of the diverse experiences being created for the “Vacation Kingdom of the World.”

1971

Oct. 1 – Walt Disney World officially opens to the public. Phase one includes Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The resort is a showplace of innovation, featuring a transportation system of monorails, watercraft, trams, and motor coaches, as well as a centralized computer network and other ground-breaking systems supporting the many guest offerings and attractions.

Oct. 25 – The Electrical Water Pageant debuts, bringing twinkling lights and a colourful synthesizer soundtrack to become a guest favourite along the waters of Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake.

Nov. 19 – Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground opens, nestled among acres of scenic pine and cypress forest and evoking the timeless beauty of the American frontier.

Magic Kingdom park entrance, 1971

1973

Dec. 15 – Walt Disney World Resort expands with a new hotel, now known as Shades of Green, and a new attraction, Pirates of the Caribbean, in Adventureland.

1974

June 30 – The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue premieres at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Today, it is one of the longest-running dinner shows in American history.

1975

Jan. 15 – Tomorrowland expands with Space Mountain and GE Carousel of Progress opens, further enhancing Tomorrowland with the latter currently holding the record for longest-running stage show in the history of American theatre.

March 22 – Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village opens with 28 shops and four restaurants. It will evolve over the decades and become The Marketplace at Disney Springs.

June 7 – Walt Disney World Resort honors America’s bicentennial with America On Parade. With 50 floats and more than 200 performers paying tribute to America’s history, people and traditions, it stands as the largest daily parade ever staged in a Disney park.

July 1 – The WEDway PeopleMover (now known as Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover) is added to Tomorrowland, providing new views along its highway in the sky.

July 14 – Preliminary plans for EPCOT are announced.

1976

June 20 – Disney’s River Country water park opens next to Fort Wilderness. The popularity of River Country eventually inspires Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Blizzard Beach water parks.

1977

June 11 –Magic Kingdom’s Main Street Electrical Parade makes its first Florida appearance, which followed its 1972 debut at Disneyland park in California.

1979

Oct. 1 – After years of planning, construction begins on EPCOT.

1980

Sept. 23 – Big Thunder Mountain Railroad opens in Frontierland, expanding the mountain range at Magic Kingdom Park.

1981

Oct. 1 – A year-long Tencennial Celebration begins, bringing new entertainment to Magic Kingdom Park. Later in the year, the EPCOT Preview Center opens on Main Street, USA

1982

Oct. 1 – EPCOT opens with five Future World pavilions – Spaceship Earth, Universe of Energy, World of Motion, Journey Into Imagination and The Land – and nine World Showcase pavilions representing Mexico, China, Germany, Italy, The American Adventure, Japan, France, United Kingdom and Canada. Disney expands its legacy of work with Make-A-Wish as the first wish is granted at Walt Disney World Resort. Since 1982, more than 176,000 life-changing wishes have been granted for children facing critical illnesses in partnership with more than 250 wish-granting organizations around the globe.

1983

Dec. 16 – The first Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is held at Magic Kingdom, starting a tradition of popular Disney After Hours events, combining special entertainment and offerings with extra time in the park.

Dec. 25 – The Walt Disney World Christmas Parade is broadcast live from Magic Kingdom on ABC, going on to become a holiday tradition and growing to include parades and performances from both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.

1984

Sept. 7 – EPCOT World Showcase expands with the opening of the Morocco pavillion.

1986

Jan. 15 – The Living Seas (now The Seas with Nemo & Friends) opens at EPCOT, home to more than 200 species of sea life in a 5.7 million-gallon “ocean” of saltwater.

1987

Jan. 25 – The iconic “I’m Going to Disney World!” commercial debuts. New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms is the first to shout the now-famous phrase following his team’s Super Bowl XXI victory.

1988

June 3 – EPCOT World Showcase expands with the opening of the Norway pavilion.

June 28 – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa opens as the flagship of Walt Disney World Resort hotels. It’s followed Oct. 1 by Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.

1989

May 1 – Disney’s Hollywood Studios opens with Tinseltown glamour, major entertainment attractions and behind-the-scenes looks at movie-making.

May 1 – The nighttime entertainment complex Pleasure Island opens with an array of restaurants and themed nightclubs. It will close in 2008 to make way for Disney Springs.

June 1 – Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park opens, featuring a 95-foot-high mountain, eight water slides and a 2.5-acre wave pool.

1990

November – The first phase of the EPCOT Resort Area opens with the debut of Disney’s Yacht Club Resort (Nov. 5) and Disney’s Beach Club Resort (Nov. 19). The following year brings Walt Disney World Swan Hotel (Jan. 13) and the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel (June 4). All within walking distance of the theme park, the collection of resorts significantly expands lodging and convention options.

1991

November – The Disney Harvest program launches. Today this program annually collects more than 823,000 pounds of prepared, unserved food from throughout Walt Disney World Resort for distribution to more than 40 Orlando-area non-profits served by Second Harvest Food Bank.

Dec. 20 – Disney Vacation Club launches with the opening of its first resort, now called Disney’s Old Key West Resort.

1993

April 23– The Walt Disney Company dedicates 8,500 acres of land purchased at the Osceola-Polk County line to The Nature Conservancy to preserve for future generations as the Disney Wilderness Preserve.

1994

Jan. 16 – The inaugural Walt Disney World Marathon steps off, eventually growing into the popular runDisney races today.

April 29 – The inaugural EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival debuts. In the years to follow, festivals dedicated to food & wine, the arts and holidays join the lineup.

June 12 – Disney’s Hollywood Studios expands with the opening of its first new themed area, Sunset Boulevard, bringing more shops, dining, and entertainment to the park… along with the haunted thrills of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror (July 22). Walt Disney World Resort continues to expand lodging options with the openings of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge (May 28), Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort (April 29) and Disney’s All-Star Music Resort (Nov. 1).

1995

April 1 – Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park debuts, offering winter-themed fun in a water park setting, including a 12-storey drop down the high-speed waterslide Summit Plummet.

April 22 – The Disney Conservation Fund forms to provide support for respected conservation organizations saving wildlife and protecting the magic of nature. To date, the fund has directed $100 million to support non-profit organizations working with communities to save wildlife, inspire action and protect the planet.

July 15 – Disney’s Wedding Pavilion opens on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon, part of a vast expansion of options for weddings and vowel renewals. Today, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons offers a wide range of nuptial and honeymoon planning around the globe.

1996

Feb. 9 – Disney Institute opens, bringing more than 60 interactive programs to guests seeking fun and self-enrichment in customized vacation experiences. In the years to follow, Disney Institute evolves into a training and professional-development organization that helps organizations be more successful using business insights and best practices of Disney parks and resorts.

July 1 – Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Villas open along with their namesake boardwalk that brings new restaurants and nightspots to the EPCOT Resort Area.

Oct. 1 – Walt Disney World Resort celebrates its 25th anniversary with a year-long celebration, new entertainment and Cinderella Castle decorated as a giant birthday cake.

1997

March 28 – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex opens. The 220-acre complex includes multiple outdoor playing fields, baseball/softball diamonds, a track & field complex, a fieldhouse and a 9,500-seat ballpark. Over the years it will grow to encompass two additional fieldhouses, an ESPN broadcast centre and even more outdoor playing fields. It will also serve as an official training site for various American and international professional teams, as well as host of several major sporting events such as the Invictus Games, the 2020 MLS is Back Tournament and the 2020 NBA restart of the regular season.

Aug. 1 – Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort opens. With 1,900 guest rooms and a 220,000-sq.-ft. convention centre, it is the largest of the Disney resort hotels that cater to meetings and events.

1998

April 22 – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park opens on Earth Day. At 500 acres, it is Disney’s largest park and home to approximately 1,800 animals representing 200 species. The park’s icon, the Tree of Life, is a tribute to nature, featuring more than 300 intricately carved animal images.

Oct. 15 – “Fantasmic!” premieres at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the newly constructed Hollywood Hills Amphitheater. The larger-than-life show features more than 50 live performers, massive sets, a brilliant display of lights, lasers, fireworks, and water animation all set to rousing music.

1999

March 18 – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park expands with Asia, a new themed area featuring Kali River Rapids and the Maharajah Jungle Trek that introduces tigers and other animal species to the park.

Oct. 1 – The Millennium Celebration begins at EPCOT. The 15-month event marks the debut of the popular nighttime spectacular, IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, that will run for 20 years. Also new is Millennium Village, celebrating the cultural achievements of 25 countries, and the Tapestry of Nations parade.

2001

April 16 – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge opens, featuring spectacular views of lush savannas home to more than 200 animals. The resort is also home to one of the largest collections of African art in the United States.

Oct. 1 – 100 Years of Magic Celebration commences, honouring the 100th anniversary of Walt Disney’s birth. New parades debut in all four parks, a 122-foot-tall Sorcerer Mickey hat becomes an icon for Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream also opens to take guests on a journey through the life of Walt Disney.

100 Years of Magic, 2021

2004

December – Disney’s PhotoPass launches, offering guests an innovative way to view and retrieve professionally captured photos online.

2005

May 5 – Walt Disney World joins in the “Happiest Celebration on Earth,” with Disney parks around the world saluting the 50th anniversary of Disneyland Resort in California. Opening as part of the celebration: Soarin’ at EPCOT and the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

2006

April 7 – Expedition Everest opens, bringing new thrills to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

Oct. 1 – “The Year of a Million Dreams” begins at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. A new “Dream Squad,” randomly selects guests to win an array of prizes. These include priceless, “dream come true” experiences like a night’s stay in the new Cinderella Castle Suite.

2008

Jan. 17 – The first Disney Dreamers Academy event brings 100 exceptional African American high school students from around the US to a four-day, immersive, transformational mentoring experience at Walt Disney World Resort. Becoming an annual event, the free program has since encouraged more than 1,000 participants to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.

2011

September – The luxury residential resort community Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Resort welcomes its first residents. Designed by Disney Imagineers, the community offers distinctive neighbourhoods, expansive nature preserves and concierge-style resident services.

2012

May 31 – Disney’s Art of Animation Resort opens with a new style of accommodations – Family Suites for parties of up to six people.

Dec. 6 – New Fantasyland opens at Magic Kingdom Park. The 26-acre expansion of the original land initially includes three new attractions; the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train follows on May 28, 2014.

2013

MagicBands and the My Disney Experience mobile app launch for all guests, bringing innovative new enhancements to help guests plan and experience Walt Disney World Resort.

2015

Sept. 29 – Culminating a three-year reimagining of what was previously Downtown Disney, Disney Springs comes to life. The retail, dining and entertainment district will continue to grow, encompassing four “neighbourhoods” all themed to Florida towns of the early 20th century.

2016

April 12 – A 48,000-panel, five-megawatt Mickey-shaped solar array debuts near EPCOT. The facility is able to produce enough power equal to 1,000 residential rooftop systems.

2017

May 27 – Pandora – The World of Avatar opens as an entirely new themed land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, featuring two attractions, dining, retail, and instantly iconic floating mountains.

2018

June 30 – Toy Story Land opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, allowing guests to play with their favourite toys in Andy’s backyard in three attractions.

2019

July 9 – Gran Destino Tower opens with 500-plus new guest rooms along with new dining and convention spaces, completing a multiyear transformation of Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

Aug. 29 – Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The 14- acre land invites guests to experience their own Star Wars stories like never before. One of the most ambitious and technologically advanced attractions created for a Disney park, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance opens Dec. 5 inside the land.

Sept. 29 – Disney Skyliner takes flight. This grand, state-of-the-art gondola system connects EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios to four Disney Resort hotels.

Dec. 16 – Disney’s Riviera Resort opens, a Disney Vacation Club property inspired by Europe and imagined by Disney.

December – A new 270-acre, 57-megawatt solar facility goes online, generating enough renewable clean energy to operate two of Walt Disney World Resort’s four theme parks annually.

2020

March 4 – Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the first ride-through attraction in a Disney park dedicated to Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

2021

Oct. 1 – “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” begins, saluting the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort. The 18-month event will feature new experiences at all four theme parks and beyond.

Check Disney Destinations inFocus

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

HAWAII’S KILAUEA VOLCANO ERUPTS

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One of the most active volcanos on Earth is erupting on Hawaii’s Big Island. Officials with the US Geological Survey confirmed Wednesday that an eruption has begun in Kilauea volcano’s Halemaumau crater at the volcano’s summit.

Webcam footage of the crater showed lava fountains covering the floor of the crater and billowing clouds of volcanic gas were rising into the air. The same area has been home to a large lava lake at various times throughout the volcano’s eruptive past.

The eruption is not in an area with homes and is entirely contained within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

“All signs indicate that it will stay within the crater,” said Ken Hon, the USGS scientist in charge of Hawaii Volcano Observatory. “We’re not seeing any indications that lava is moving into the lower part of the east rift zone where people live. Currently all the activity is within the park.”

The volcano’s alert level has been raised to “warning” and the aviation code changed to red.

Earlier Wednesday, officials said increased earthquake activity and ground swelling had been detected, and at that time raised the alert levels accordingly.

Kilauea had a major eruption in 2018 that destroyed more than 700 homes and displaced thousands of residents. Before that eruption, the volcano had been slowly erupting for decades, but mostly not in densely populated residential areas.

Before the major 2018 eruption, Kilauea had been erupting since 1983 and streams of lava occasionally covered rural farms and homes. During that time, the lava sometimes reached the ocean, causing dramatic interactions with the water.

Over four months in 2018, Kilauea spewed enough lava to fill 320,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools, burying an area more than half the size of Manhattan in up to 80 feet (24 meters) of now-hardened lava. The molten rock reduced landmarks, streets and neighborhoods to a vast field of blackened boulders and volcanic shard.

After the 2018 eruption the summit lava lake stopped erupting and for the first time in recorded history began to fill with water, raising concerns about the possibility of an explosive interaction between lava and groundwater.

The same area of the volcano that began erupting Wednesday also erupted in December and lasted until May.

Hon said these types of eruptions could be happening for years as the volcano fills up.

“We do know that one thing that happens is that the magma keeps coming in to Kilauea at a pretty constant rate and so it’s either filling the inside of the volcano and repressurize it or it’s coming out to the surface.”

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park spokesperson Jessica Ferracane told The Associated Press that she had not yet arrived at the park, but that colleagues reported seeing some lava spatter and glow within the summit crater.

“He saw that from Volcano House, which is at least 2 miles away from the eruption site, so I suspect … we’ll be able to see a pretty glow, and who knows what else,” she said.

The Volcano House is a hotel and restaurant within the national park adjacent to the visitor center. The park is open to visitors.

Ferracane said the area that is erupting is not close to where people can hike or drive. Trails downwind from the eruption have been closed for years.

“The park is open and there are no road closures at this time,” Ferracane said.

Ferracane added that officials are expected tens of thousands of visitors to flock into the park and that people need to be very careful both in terms of natural hazards and COVID-19.

“This eruption is going to draw many people to the park, we’re already seeing people come into the park, drive in after dark tonight,” Ferracane said. “Really need people to remember that we are in the middle of a pandemic and they need to stay safe and to keep us safe, too.”

She said people must maintain six feet of distance and wear masks.

“If you’re sick, please don’t come. Come visit another day. Enjoy the views from the webcam,” she said. “We really want to not have these current eruption conditions increase the spread of COVID.”

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PUBS, PATIOS & BARS: A little ‘husband daycare’ in Niagara

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Niagara on the Lake perennially ranks as one of Canada’s prettiest towns. Throw in the nearby falls, gorge, whirlpool and riverside parks, a wealth of wineries, and popular annual Shaw Festival, and the town is a favourite destination for visitors (especially again from across the border) plus day-trippers from the GTA and around southern Ontario.

I found myself there on a recent weekend and the place was packed, pandemic be damned, which might be the only negative thing one can say about the place.

Beyond the boutique shops on the main street, there’s certainly no shortage of eating and dining establishments, many of them with lovely patios – which brings us to The Irish Harp Pub, a little gem just off the main drag on King Street at Platoff/Johnson (not that anything in tiny NOTL is hard to find).

But the pub’s location is critical, offering respite from the bustle and line-ups of the Queen Street. A little further along (shh!) is street parking without fee or frenzy, and the five-minute walk past the pub to the business district takes one past charming cottages and leafy homes guaranteed to make you wish you lived there.

As for the pub, it knows its place, with a sidewalk chalkboard cheekily identifying itself as “Husband Daycare,” declaring “Ladies! Need time alone? Need time for shopping? Drop your husband here, we will take care of him. All you pay: food and drink.”

For all its charm, non-shoppers of any denomination can cover the town proper in five or 10 minutes, so settling in somewhere to enjoy a drink and simply bask in the ambiance is ritual, and the Harp has a patio out back and benches and a few tables along the sidewalk in front to allow guests to do so (and plays to the notion that a nice day is often part of the motivation behind visiting). There’s also inside seating, of course, when required or desired.

Sidewalk seating

In or out, patrons will find an extensive beer list, both on tap and in bottles, including house, local craft, domestic, and Irish – among them Guinness, Smithwick’s, Kilkenny, and, of course, Harp lager. Flights of both house ale and an Irish mix can be sampled.

Being in wine country, Jackson Triggs and Inniskillen highlight the local offerings and there are international vintages, plus cocktails.

The Harp gets its Irish up on the food side, with dishes like Irish egg rolls (corned beef and cabbage), Gaelic nachos, Irish stew, steak and Guinness pie, Irish hot pot, various fish dishes, sticky toffee pudding for dessert, plus much more (there is “non-Irish” fare as well).

Of course, the pub is more than just a shopping detour, offering live Irish music nightly (with the exception of Wednesday and most Mondays) and other ongoing pub-style activities, such as music trivia nights on Tuesdays. And there are three rooms upstairs (with handcrafted Irish décor) to accommodate stayovers.

Located at 245 King St., the Irish Harp Pub is open 11 to midnight daily, 1 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Note that proof of vaccination is currently required as per Ontario provincial regulation.

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

PATA Partners with Switch Asia to Promote Sustainable Thai Tourism

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PATA Partners with Switch Asia to Promote Sustainable Thai Tourism - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, September 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has partnered with a European Union (EU)-funded TourLink project that recently kicked-off, under the EU SWITCH-ASIA programme.

TourLink is a Thai tourism supply chain initiative, linking EU buyers with Thai tour operators and suppliers, aiming to increase competitive advantage by raising sustainability performance.

Faced with the realities of climate change, systematic sustainability management will be a required mark of quality, safety and professionalism, and a key to doing business with EU outbound tour operators. In the post-COVID-19 tourism landscape, tourism professionals with the skills to deliver positive results for profit, planet and people will be more employable.

TourLink unites the experience, expertise, and energy of Thai-EU sustainable tourism pioneers: the European Centre for Ecological and Agricultural Tourism (ECEAT), Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Thai Eco and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA), and Thai Hotel Association (THA). The partners will work until April 2024 to raise sustainability performance along Thai tourism supply chains and boost market demand for sustainable product choices.

Partners will build the capacity of Thai tour operators and suppliers, such as hotels, transport, and activity providers, to achieve common standards for quality, safety, and sustainability. The outcome will lead to internationally recognised Travelife certification for the suppliers and market benefits for their businesses, as well as showcase Thailand as a leading sustainable tourism destination. TourLink will also improve Thai tourism businesses’ access to Green Finance initiatives and contribute to key challenges of plastic reduction and food waste, and decreasing carbon emissions.

According to TourLink Project Manager, Mr. Peter Richards, “Raising your sustainability performance during this time will help you save money through simple, cost-saving measures; show European B2B business partners that you are professional and reliable, and motivate your staff during the difficult COVID period. Travelife’s sustainability management system can directly link your company to leading EU Tourism Associations and showcase your achievements. Tour operators which engage now can benefit from free membership for 2021-22, use Travelife’s online platform, criteria, training tools and tips; and receive personal coaching to help you to meet the standards.”

PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera echoes this sentiment, adding, “PATA is focussed on supporting the industry recovery with tangible in-market projects that can demonstrate practical, responsible solutions. Our goal is to develop and/or share business models that combine sustainability with profitability. Creating strong sustainability development plans will bring competitive advantage and generate long-term success for your business.”

The TourLink team is reaching out to collaborate with other public and private sector organisations. One exciting opportunity is collaboration with the highly innovative Thailand Carbon Balance project, managed by TEATA, DASTA, TGO, TCEB and the Thai Chamber of Commerce. This cooperation can enable an end-to-end EU-Thai tourism supply chain approach towards carbon calculation, management, and offsetting (carbon credits).

PATA is also building on their pioneering BUFFET Toolkit, which provides step by step guidelines for reducing food waste, and Plastic Free Toolkit for Tour Operators to develop new standards, tools and innovative training which will help Thai tourism professionals to harness sustainability as an opportunity for well-paid work during COVID-19 recovery.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Kenya Airways Signs Strategic Alliance with South African Airways

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Kenya Airways Signs Strategic Alliance with South African AirwaysNairobi, Kenya, September 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Kenya’s national carrier Kenya Airways (KQ) and South Africa Airways (SAA) have entered a memorandum of cooperation with a longer-term view to co-starting a Pan-African Airline Group that in time will enhance mutual growth potential between the two carriers.

• For a complete travel guide on Magical Kenya, Where Safari was Born, go to VisitKenya.com

– Kenya Airways (KQ) and South Africa Airways (SAA) have signed a memorandum of cooperation whose long-term objective is to form a Pan African airline.

– At this initial stage, it is not a merger but a partnership that seeks to re-organise KQ and SAA assets into an ecosystem that will make the South African and Kenyan aviation sector more competitive.

This cooperation aligns with KQ’s core purpose, Contributing to the sustainable development of Africa. will be based on mutual benefits. These include strategic positioning in global aviation, diversifying earning streams, and reinforcing regional partnership in Africa through diplomatic and commercial relations. This will see an increase in passenger traffic, cargo opportunities, and general trade by taking advantage of strengths in South Africa, Kenya, and Africa.

Mr. Allan Kilavuka, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the partnership’s significance in turning around the fortunes of both KQ and SAA. The future of aviation and its long-term sustenance is hinged on cooperation. KQ and SAA collaboration will enhance customer benefits by availing a larger combined passenger and Cargo network, fostering the exchange of expertise, innovation, best practice, and adopting home-grown organic solutions to technical and operational challenges.

KQ remains committed to its financial turnaround strategy. The pursuit of partnerships is one of the core strategic pillars that shall transform the airline by ensuring its financial viability while offering world class services in Africa and the world.

SAA’s Interim CEO Thomas Kgokolo noted that “This cooperation, which includes demand recovery and other cost containment strategies, will aid recovery of both carriers in an increasingly competitive African airline environment. It will also enhance related Kenya and South Africa tourism circuits, which sectors account for significant portions of respective country growth domestic product, benefiting from at least two attractive hubs in Johannesburg, Nairobi and possibly Cape Town. KQ and SAA, as iconic airline brands of Africa’s biggest and vibrant economies, in East Africa and Southern Africa respectively, are at the precipice of what could be Africa’s formidable Pan African airline.’’

The respective Kenyan and South African governments recognise KQ and SAA as strategic national assets. They are committed to providing an operating environment that will allow for commercial agility and flexibility, shared access to domestic and international markets for the carriers’ mutual benefit.

Kgokolo adds that collaboration will also assist both airlines in the current and post-pandemic business and travel environment. This he says involves, joint recovery strategies and other cost containment strategies that will aid recovery of both carriers in an increasing competitive African airline environment. This agreement does not offer an exclusivity that precludes either of the airlines from pursuing commercial co-operation with other carriers within the current route network strategy.

As a key driver of economic growth, the aviation sector enables quick movement of passengers and cargo, leading to increased economic activity, generating direct and indirect employment. The recognition of this significance to economic development is the impetus behind the cooperation. This cooperation also seeks to address the significant contraction witnessed in the history of the air transport market in the wake of COVID-19. The African air transport market is estimated to be 50% of 2019 (pre-COVID-19), and the situation is expected to last for at least three years.

About Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways, a member of the Sky Team Alliance, is a leading African airline currently flying to 46 destinations worldwide, 34 of which are in Africa. It continues to modernize its fleet with its 32 aircraft being some of the youngest in Africa. This includes its flagship B787 Dreamliner aircraft. The on-board service is renowned and the lie-flat business class seat on the wide-body aircraft is consistently voted among the world’s top 10. Kenya Airways takes pride for being in the forefront of connecting Africa to the World and the World to Africa through its hub at the new ultra -modern Terminal 1A at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.

• For a complete travel guide on Magical Kenya, Where Safari was Born, go to VisitKenya.com

About South Africa Airways
South Africa Airways (SAA) began operations on 1 February 1934. SAA, is a leading carrier in Africa, serving regional destinations between Johannesburg and five African capitals – Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka, and Maputo and 1 domestic route between Johannesburg and Cape Town. It is a member of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance. SAA’s core business is the provision of passenger airline and cargo transport services together with related services, which are provided through SAA and its wholly owned subsidiaries: SAA Technical (SAAT), a world class maintenance facility and Air Chefs, the catering entity of SAA. SAAT has particularly been successful in the delivery of high quality maintenance services such as; major airframe checks; engine overhaul; mechanical components; avionics and line maintenance. From our first flight in 1934, SAA have welcomed the world to South Africa by showing off the warm generous heart of the country. The airline has more than 80 years of excellence and innovation to draw on.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Siam Piwat Benchmarks MICE Industry with Virtual Inspection Solution

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Siam Piwat Benchmarks MICE Industry with Virtual Inspection Solution - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, September 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Siam Piwat is the owner and operator of global retail destinations – Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery, and joint venture partners of ICONSIAM and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok. The company also founded Siam Alliances Management, a leader of world-class convention and event establishment. Siam Piwat recently set a new benchmark for the event organizing and MICE (Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions, Exhibitions) industry with ‘Virtual Inspection’ and ‘Online Reservation’ solutions. The digital services cater to the new-normal lifestyle and facilitate event professionals from across the globe with virtual venue tour and convenient online reservation.

– Siam Piwat launches “Virtual Inspection” and “Online Reservation” for its convention spaces, a MICE industry benchmark.

– Offering absolute exhibition and event destinations, now event organizers from across the globe can virtually inspect the convention spaces and conveniently make instant online reservation.

Mr.Talun Theng, Managing Director of Siam Alliance Management Co., Ltd. said “Siam Piwat, as a retail leader, we pride ourselves as ‘the ICON of Innovative Lifestyle’. Our business strategies focus on Co-creation and Creating Shared Values. Creativity is key to this business model as well as the Co-creation between forward-thinkers from various industries to create shared values that benefit people at large, the society and the country. For the exhibition and conventional venue business, Siam Alliance Management (SAM) is operating Bangkok’s prime event spaces including Royal Paragon Hall on the 5 Floor of Siam Paragon Shopping Center and True Icon Hall on the 7 Floor of ICONSIAM. SAM is now the first in Asia to launch the cutting-edge technology, for its site ‘Virtual Inspection’ and ‘Online Reservation.’

Covid-19 has presented challenges to mostly all businesses, and MICE industry is no exception. Now that the situation seems to be recovering, the world of MICE business has started to pick up. European countries and the US have started to allow domestic events and international scale conference like the ASEAN Summit is scheduled to take place in Cambodia.

For Thailand, as leader of convention venue business, SAM is turning the global resilience into business opportunities. The launch of our new solutions ‘Virtual Inspection’ and ‘Online Reservation,’ offers immersive and 360◦ venue scouting experience to give event organizers a full access to the venue plus all relevant information such as sizing, dimensions, floor-to-ceiling height, capacity for seated and standing events. Facilities, equipment, light and sound system are also listed to best serve different preferences. The ‘Online Reservation,’ enables event professionals to check the venue availability and make their reservation instantly.

This innovative service reinforces Siam Piwat’s as The ICON of Innovative Lifestyle. The company has continuously evolved to come up with business innovations that are relevant to the world’s new normalcy. This also marks the new innovations for conventional hall industry.

“We are ever evolving to create new business innovation to best serve this digital era. Siam Alliance Management thrives forward with four core business pillars including Connection Enhancement – optimize its business networks that include government agencies and leading private organizations. Collaboration with Partners to together succeed through new business solutions and create shared values. Communication & action, providing clear communication, effective and speedy service for best customer satisfaction and Create Events, to offer new events and activities to cater to the interest of customers in this new era,” added Talun.

The government business resilience has shown a great recovery sign for MICE business. Demands have poured in for future events. From today to June 2025, our convention halls have secured over 60% booking.

The Virtual Inspection launch for SAM is a major move for Siam Piwat as the Icon of Innovative Lifestyle. It will be a game-changer for MICE business to fully tap into the digital-dominant world. It also brings pride to Thailand and to leverage MICE business standard,” concluded Mr.Talun.

About Royal Paragon Hall
The Royal Paragon Hall is strategically located on the 5 Floor of the Siam Paragon Shopping Center, in the heart of Bangkok and has been a key player in Thailand’s MICE industry. Royal Paragon Hall is conveniently accessible via the BTS sky train and over 4,000 indoor parking space eligible. With a total space of 12,000 square meters, the space suits all types functions imaginable and can be divided for multi-purpose use such as exhibition, convention, receptions and entertainment events.

Bangkok has played a leading role in Asia Pacific’s MICE business. Growing business development and being a part of Asean Economics Community (AEC) drives expansion for convention center business. Located in the heart of Bangkok, Royal Paragon Hall has been a epitome of event venue in ASEAN and equipped with professional services and first-rate facilities.

About TRUE ICON HALL
TRUE ICON HALL is Asia’s revolutionary stage of iconic MICEntertainment venue. Located on the 7th Floor of ICONSIAM, the mega-development project recognized worldwide as a global landmark on the bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, one of the world’s most preferred destinations.​

TRUE ICON HALL is a true convergence of innovative design and most advanced technology best suitable for all arrays of world-class meetings, conventions, exhibitions, entertainment, and special events. TRUE ICON HALL is the best of its kind MICE and entertainment solutions and top-notch facilities that can adeptly accommodate ever-shifting needs of the thriving MICE and entertainment industry worldwide. It is proud to be the first and only MICE and entertainment venue in Thailand that features 2,700 automatic retractable seating, fully integrated in-seat USB power solutions and state-of-the-art light and sound systems.​

TRUE ICON HALL spans a gross area of 12,000 square meters and is home to 2 main halls that take up 2,775 square meters in total and 1,200-square meter foyer called Suralai Hall that overlooks the Chao Phraya River. These innovative halls are fully equipped with the most efficient ultra-high-speed internet True Gigatex Fiber and double operable walls to make divided halls completely soundproof. It also features 14 meeting rooms for 20 to 200 seats and can be flexibly combinable up to 520 theatre-style seatings.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Partners with Didier Drogba to Build Opportunities for African Youth

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UNWTO Partners with Didier Drogba to Build Opportunities for African Youth - TRAVELINDEXAbidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, September 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and the Didier Drogba Foundation have teamed up to highlight the potential of African youth and ensure that both tourism and sport deliver on their potential to provide opportunities for all.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Against the backdrop of World Tourism Day 2021 – held under the theme of “Tourism for Inclusive Development” – the United Nations specialized agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the former Chelsea and Côte d’Ivoire footballer.

Didier Drogba is one of the most celebrated and decorated athletes of this century, and the work of the Didier Drogba Foundation is true to the goals of UNWTO

The agreement recognizes that both sport and tourism can play a key role in advancing many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including through promoting cooperation and understanding, as well as through creating frameworks for inclusive economic growth. It also recognizes the shared goals and values of both UNWTO and the Foundation.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Didier Drogba is one of the most celebrated and decorated athletes of this century, and the work of the Didier Drogba Foundation is true to the goals of UNWTO – to provide opportunity to the women and youth of Africa and build a better future for the continent.”

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Didier Drogba was appointed a UNWTO Ambassador for Responsible Tourism in October 2019. In this role, he provides a bridge between tourism and sport – both sectors with the power to bring people together and promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hot Take: A New Complimentary Hotel Breakfast Worth Waking up for at Marriott Bonvoy’s Select Brands

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Tomato, Kale and Feta Egg White Frittata
BurkleHagen Photography
Plain Yogurt with Granola, Walnuts and Blueberry Compote
BurkleHagen Photography
Sausage, Egg and Cheese on a Whole Wheat Bagel
BurkleHagen Photography

With travelers back on the road, today, Marriott Bonvoy unveils a new complimentary hot breakfast program across four brands within its portfolio: Residence Inn by Marriott, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Fairfield by Marriott, and TownePlace Suites by Marriott. Beginning in October at a limited number of hotels, the refreshed breakfast will feature a delicious morning menu that caters to consumers’ tastes for highly customizable breakfast items, from hot sandwiches with a range of toppings to build-your-own bowls piled high with their favorite ingredients. Guests can fuel up for the day with a deeply aromatic, bespoke-branded Rainforest Certified Coffee™.

“Breakfast has long been a celebrated experience during a hotel stay – a moment to gather before exploring a destination or a reliable grab-and-go kickstart to the day,” said Diane Mayer, Vice President & Global Brand Manager for Classic Select Brands. “Through extensive consumer insights, we recognize that our guests want to wake up to a nutritious and energizing breakfast made with quality ingredients. We are pleased to introduce our new complimentary breakfast that offers mouthwatering, customizable options with an eye towards sustainability.”

In a survey conducted by Marriott [1], 75% of guests preferred a hot breakfast buffet over continental, further enhanced by choice between categories, quality, and variety within categories. Based on the data, 67% of guests rank availability of ‘special diet options’ as being extremely important and a majority (72%) feel comfortable eating at a buffet again. Research also shows that the #1 most important breakfast item is fresh coffee or tea, followed by hot food offerings. In response to the research, Marriott thoughtfully integrated all these attributes into its new breakfast experience to exceed guest expectations.

Quality Ingredients
The complimentary hot breakfast will offer high-quality ingredients with specialty menu items ideal for the modern traveler seeking fresh flavors and sustenance in a casual environment. Choose from a selection of warm breakfast sandwiches; spinach and cheese crustless quiche; sausage, egg and cheese on a whole-wheat bagel; or a jalapeno cheddar baked soufflé. Additionally, with fresh fruit and gluten-free options, guests can wake up and start their day feeling nourished and satiated.

Make it Your Own
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to a satisfying morning meal. The new breakfast program will offer build-your-own breakfast bowls featuring customizable ingredients to fulfill any craving, whether healthy or indulgent. Start with a base of yogurt, oatmeal or cereal, then add layers of granola, pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes and more. Guests can also personalize their own hot sandwiches with a variety of toppings and sauces, from relish and salsa to Sriracha and Cholula.

Make a Difference
Our small choices can make a big impact, and the need to be good stewards of the world and to protect our environment is more important than ever. The new breakfast will feature key ingredients that are responsibly sourced including cage-free eggs, sustainably raised pork, and 100% certified coffee that will contribute to a better future.

The complimentary hot breakfast buffet will launch in October in a select number of hotels and be widely rolled out across nearly 3,000 hotels throughout the winter at all Residence Inn, Fairfield by Marriott, SpringHill Suites, and TownePlace Suites properties in the United States. Shaped by in-depth consumer research, current trends and guest feedback, the newly conceptualized breakfast exemplifies Marriott’s continued innovation of the contemporary guest experience within its hotels.

[1] US+CAN: Qualitative and quantitative research, QSR trends with target travelers, 800+ Surveyed, 25 1:1 Interviews, 8 panelists, 400+ hours of guest engagement.

About Residence Inn by Marriott
Residence Inn by Marriott is the global leader in the longer stays lodging segment with more than 860 properties in 17 countries and territories. Guests have the freedom to travel the way they live with Residence Inn’s spacious suites featuring distinct living, working, and sleeping spaces. Travelers can maximize their time and thrive while on the road with fully equipped kitchens in each suite, grocery delivery service, 24/7 grab-and-go markets and complimentary breakfast. The warm and inviting public spaces feature modern residential design allowing guests to feel right at home, paired with the added amenities of upscale hotel living. Residence Inn is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.com. For more information or reservations, visit residence-inn.marriott.com.

About SpringHill Suites by Marriott
SpringHill Suites by Marriott is the largest all-suites upscale hotel brand that is refreshingly different. With stylish surroundings that are beyond the ordinary at over 500 properties across the U.S. and Canada, guests are provided thoughtful, focused service in an uplifting atmosphere. Each spacious suite features an open, airy design that puts guests at ease, with separate living and sleeping areas. At SpringHill Suites, travelers can escape their routines and enjoy their time away. SpringHill Suites is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.com. For more information or reservations, visit www.springhillsuites.com.

About Fairfield by Marriott
Fairfield by Marriott was founded on the principles of trusted service and warm, friendly hospitality inspired by its unique heritage as the namesake of the Marriott family retreat, the Fairfield Farm. Its contemporary, uplifting design provides an effortless experience for guests to maintain their routines while on the road. Evoking the feelings of calming simplicity, Fairfield offers thoughtfully designed guestrooms and suites that provide separate quality living, working and sleeping areas. With over 1,150 properties in 13 countries and territories, Fairfield is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.com. For more information or reservations, visit Fairfield.marriott.com.

About TownePlace Suites by Marriott
TownePlace Suites by Marriott is an award-winning, all-suites hotel brand ideal for travelers who want to make the most out of longer stays. With over 460 properties across the U.S. and Canada, the brand’s simple yet innovative design, features personal touches and clever details that also provide a sense of calm and comfort. Offering studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, TownePlace Suites helps guests settle in and feel right at home. For more information or reservations, visit www.towneplacesuites.com. TownePlace Suites is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.com.

Media Contact
Christine Lin
Marriott International
Christine.Lin@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Banyan Tree Marks Anniversary with Resort Credit Offers

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Banyan Tree Marks Anniversary with Resort Credit Offers - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, September 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / One of Southeast Asia’s most beloved hotel groups, Banyan Tree, is celebrating its 27th anniversary with a range of value-driven offers across more than 40 properties worldwide.

In Thailand, the group’s luxury resorts in Koh Samui and Krabi provide daily credit vouchers to guests, which can be used at all on-site restaurants and spas to the tune of 2,000 baht (US$60) and 3,000 baht ($90) respectively.

Banyan Tree Samui will also include a complimentary round-trip airport transfer for guests.

The “Rediscover the World” promotion applies to bookings at all Banyan Tree hotels between 7 September and 15 October 2021; however, stays at the resorts can be taken any time until 7 September 2022 at Banyan Tree Samui, and until 31 July 2022 at Banyan Tree Krabi.

Founded by Singaporeans KP Ho and his wife Claire Chang, Banyan Tree’s foundations are deeply rooted in Thailand where they opened their first hotel back in 1994. However, the original site for their dream resort in Phuket was discovered to be sitting upon an abandoned tin mine and the soil was too toxic to support development. Unperturbed, the couple embarked on a program of regeneration, planting 7,000 trees and stimulating the growth of indigenous plants and flora.

Twenty-seven years later, the Banyan Tree brand has become synonymous with environmental awareness and wellbeing, winning numerous awards and adhering to the highest principles of sustainability.

Banyan Tree Krabi is the latest in the group’s lush tropical resorts to open in Thailand, launching in October 2020 despite the challenges of the covid pandemic. Situated at tranquil Tubkaek Beach, a 45-minute drive from Krabi International Airport, the new resort is flanked by nature — it tiers into a verdant forested landscape while facing Than Bok Khorani National Marine Park and its famous towering limestone cliffs, which jut from the Andaman Sea, one of Thailand’s most iconic and idyllic postcard images.

Banyan Tree Krabi has 72 suites and villas, each of which has its own private infinity pool and jet pool. Facilities at the hotel include two restaurants, a beach bar, a kids’ club, a fitness center, a meeting center, an elevated outdoor wedding deck, and in keeping with Banyan Tree’s global wellbeing branding — a rainforest-themed spa.

Perhaps one of Thailand’s most recognizable hotels for its picture-postcard location is Banyan Tree Samui, which opened in 2010. The resort is nestled into a tropical hillside overlooking a cove of white-sanded beach and sapphire sea, and each of the 88 villas on the lush 38-acre property boasts a private 35-sqm infinity pool.

Banyan Tree Samui was a Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Winner in 2020, and has consistently been voted one of the top resorts in Asia.

Both Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi typify the brand by their atmosphere of “Thai-ness”. The signature Saffron Restaurant, available at either hotel, offers a menu of classic Thai cuisine and magnificent sea views, while the spas employ local Thai herbs in their massage products.

Banyan Tree’s design team has accentuated the ambience of luxury at each resort with Siamese architectural aspects such as pitched ceilings and Buddhist temple-shaped rooftops, as well as traditional Thai fabrics and artwork in the decor.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Carlton Bangkok Welcomes You Back

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To celebrate our hotel reopening on 1st October 2021, we’re offering an amazing Welcome Back promotion of only THB 1,001++ per night.

Book your stay now as this amazing offer is limited to only 1,001 room nights!

This outstanding package includes the following:

  • 1-night stay in a Deluxe Room (room only)
  • 20% off food and beverage in all outlets (excludes promotions, happy hour, wine & spirits by the bottle
  • A special a la carte breakfast price of THB 300++ per person (usually THB 450++)
  • 24-hour stay (check-in from 10:00 am)

For further information or reservations, please contact +66 2 090 7888 or Email: reservations@carltonhotel.co.th

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News