Global Travel News

In Time for Thailand’s Reopening Travelindex Launches TOP25 Hotels Phuket

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In Time for Thailand’s Reopening Travelindex Launches TOP25 Hotels Phuket Edition - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, November 1, 2021 – In-time for today’s re-opening of Thailand and with the support of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Travelindex formally launched the Phuket Edition of its prestigious hotel guide; the TOP25 Hotels Phuket – Phuket’s Best Luxury Hotels and Hotel Awards.

The TOP25 Hotel Guide Phuket brings together not only exceptional hotels but the best beach resorts, luxury wellness retreats, green hotels and superior villas. Each property chosen first and foremost for the quality of service, unique location and outstanding facilities.

The diversity of Phuket’s accommodation offering is reflected in this exclusive selection, allowing TOP25Hotels.com to celebrate the hospitality sector in Phuket and to showcase efforts by hotel managers in sustainability and in their support for the local communities. TOP25 Hotels Phuket contributes to the prestige of the local accommodation landscape and, with the integration into the Travelindex global ecosystem, to attract more visitors and tourists to the destination.

To ensure its credibility and impartiality of its ranking, the “TOP25 Hotels Phuket Edition” is based on a world-leading rating system, the Hotel Rating Index (HRI). HRI is an artificial intelligence based, decentralized appraisal mechanism combining behavioral analytics and human expertise from some of the world’s top travel and hospitality experts.

Mr. Bernard Metzger, Founder of TOP25 Guide series, stated: “We are committed to support the hospitality sectors in Phuket by leveraging digital technology and our online expertise. We aim not only to help hotels in the recovering process from the Covid pandemic downturn but also to educated people to appreciate accommodation providers’ efforts in sustainability, while at the same time improving the drawing power of Phuket as Thailand’s and Asia’s premier holiday destination.”

With the re-opening of Thailand’s borders to travelers from 63 countries, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects a great number of foreign tourists to visit Phuket. A number of major airlines including Etihad, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Thai Airways International (THAI) are already reconnecting Phuket with world cities like London, Frankfurt, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Singapore with direct flights.

Hotels and accommodation providers in Phuket can feature at no costs in the “TOP25 Hotels Phuket” guide by filling out the hotel nomination form here:

Contact information
TOP25 Hotels International
Ms. Nicole Lim, Media Relations
Email: media@top25restaurants.com
Web: www.top25hotels.com/phuket/

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Saudi-backed Super Golf League with Greg Norman Announced

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Saudi-backed Super Golf League with Greg Norman Announced

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November 1, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Saudi-backed league will start as a 10-event series on the Asian Tour and the locations for the events are Asia, Europe, and, of course, the Middle East. Greg Norman will be the CEO of the LIV Golf Investments, which is connected to this series. Meanwhile, the majority shareholder of LIV Golf Investments is the Public Investment Fund, which is also investing arm of the Saudi Arabian government.

• Discover the World’s Best Golf Courses at TOP25 Golf Courses.

Norman said the investment of at least $200m in prize money over the next 10 years “is only the beginning” amid persistent rumours that he will also become the commissioner of a new Saudi-funded breakaway golf league. LIV Golf Investments is a new company backed by the Private Investment Fund which operates on behalf of the government of Saudi Arabia.

The Asian Tour will be the launch vehicle, as they won’t need any approval for the world ranking points. Because launching a new Tour would force them to get approval through OWGR. The announcement follows a recent 10-year partnership between the Asian Tour and Golf Saudi, which runs the Saudi International, an event formerly part of the European Tour.

There has been no announcement of specific player commitments. And PGA Tour players will likely still need tour approval as this is still a non-PGA Tour event. So it will be interesting to see how things play out over the next few days as this was just a warm-up announcement. In addition, there are a few things that will be announced in the coming weeks.

• Discover the World’s Best Golf Courses at TOP25 Golf Courses.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Appointed to Manage Qatar’s Host Country Real Estate Operations

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Accor Appointed to Manage Qatar’s Host Country Real Estate Operations

Doha, Qatar, November 1, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC), the organisation responsible for delivering the required infrastructure, host country planning and operations, and legacy projects for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, has signed an agreement with Accor, a world-leading hospitality Group, to manage operations and deliver services to Qatar’s host country real estate portfolio through the end of 2022.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Qatar and the FIFA World Cup 2022, go to VisitQatar.org

The agreement was signed in Doha, Qatar, in the presence of H.E. Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. H.E. Ali Al Kuwari, Minister of Finance and Chairman, Katara Hospitality, and H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, SC Secretary General, were also in attendance.

Engineer Yasir Al Jamal, Chairman of the SC’s Operations Office, and Vice Chairman, Technical Delivery Office, signed the agreement alongside Sebastien Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Accor, and Katara Hospitality’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Humphries.

The agreement will see Accor provide personnel to operate what will be the largest serviced real estate operation in the world, and include front office (check-in/check-out), operational supplies and equipment as well as housekeeping services among others. The agreement will make use of the country’s full real estate portfolio, further illustrating Qatar’s commitment to sustainability.

H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the SC said: “This groundbreaking agreement is another example of how Qatar’s approach is truly historic – not only in terms of setting the highest delivery standards, but also for legacy planning. By making full use of existing residential apartments and villas in Qatar, we can offer visitors a range of affordable and comfortable options; while also ensuring we have a sustainable hotel market that does not leave Qatar with excess permanent hotel rooms post-2022.”

Yasir Al Jamal, Chairman of the SC’s Operations Office, and Vice Chairman, Technical Delivery Office, said: “Today’s signing represents a significant step in our promise to deliver a wide range of affordable and exciting options to visitors traveling to Qatar. This agreement will enhance the overall experience for every visitor staying in the country and ensure that everyone receives the truly memorable, hospitable welcome for which Qatar and the Arab world is renowned.”

Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO of Accor, said: “The entire team is thrilled to have been selected to manage and provide services to Qatar’s exciting real estate portfolio. We share the region’s excitement for the coming year and look forward to welcoming visitors, and ensuring they have a comfortable and memorable stay in the country.”
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About the SC
Established in 2011 by the State of Qatar, the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) is responsible for the delivery of the required infrastructure and host country planning and operations for Qatar to host an amazing and historic FIFA World Cup 2022™ that accelerates progress towards achieving national development goals and creates a lasting legacy for Qatar, the region and the world.

The stadiums, non-competition venues and other infrastructure the SC and our stakeholders are delivering will contribute to a compact and connected FIFA World Cup™ with sustainability and accessibility at its heart. After the tournament, the stadiums and surrounding precincts will become vibrant hubs of community life – an integral part of the legacy we are building.

Working closely with the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 LLC, the SC is also responsible for FIFA World Cup 2022™ host country planning and operations. Families and groups of fans arriving from around the world will experience a secure, human-centred tournament that both celebrates and exemplifies the hospitality for which Qatar and the region are known.

Finally, through programmes including Generation Amazing, Challenge 22 and Workers’ Welfare, and initiatives such as Community Engagement and the Josoor Institute, the SC harnesses the power of football to stimulate human, social, economic and environmental development in communities across Qatar, the region and around the world.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Qatar and the FIFA World Cup 2022, go to VisitQatar.org

About Accor
Accor is a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,200 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. The group has one of the industry’s most diverse and fully-integrated hospitality ecosystems encompassing more than 40 luxury, premium, midscale and economy hotel brands, entertainment and nightlife venues, restaurants and bars, branded private residences, shared accommodation properties, concierge services, co-working spaces and more.

Accor’s unmatched position in lifestyle hospitality – one of the fastest growing categories in the industry – is led by Ennismore, a creative hospitality company with a global portfolio of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. Accor boasts an unrivalled portfolio of distinctive brands and approximately 260,000 team members worldwide. 68 million members benefit from the company’s comprehensive loyalty program – ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a daily lifestyle companion that provides access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

Through its Planet 21 – Acting Here, Accor Solidarity, RiiSE and ALL Heartist Fund initiatives, the Group is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity and inclusivity. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: Oct. 25-29, 2021

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In last week’s news: Canada finally lifts its warning against non-essential travel, but not all the way; Air Canada introduces COVID-19 test kits; the pandemic claims Pandaw Cruises; Israel eyes rep-opening; and Goway looks south of the border…

NEWS

The travel industry is welcoming what it calls the federal government’s “long overdue” move to lift a global advisory asking Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside the country. But disappointment continues that cruising, according to the feds, is still taboo.

Goway reports that is has partnered with the Signature Travel Network in order to expand its reach in the US. Signature Travel Network has over 11,000 members and is considered a trusted name in the travel industry.

Mississauga’s Sunmed Holidays Inc. had its registration under the Ontario Travel Industry Act, 2002 revoked effective Oct. 29. Sunmed Holidays operated as both a travel retailer and travel wholesaler, and primarily sold tours to the Mediterranean. TICO states: “This travel agency and tour operator is no longer in business.”

RE-OPENING/RE-START

Israeli leaders have recommended reopening the country to fully vaccinated tourists beginning on Nov. 1, over 18 months after Israel closed its borders to most foreign visitors due to the global coronavirus pandemic. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett’s office said that foreigners who were fully vaccinated less than six months ago, or who have received a booster shot more recently, will be eligible to enter the country.

Qantas Airways has brought forward its plans to restart international travel from Sydney as Australian prime minister Scott Morrison predicted tourists would be welcomed back to Australia this year, well ahead of the originally expected date in 2022, or even later.

Air Canada has restarted service to Martinique from Martinique (Oct. 30) after several months of interruption of service due to the pandemic. A direct weekly flight from (YUL) will be operate with a two-class 169-seat B-737 aircraft.

DELAYED/ CANCELLED

Popular river cruise operator Pandaw Cruises says it has ‘no alternative but to cease river cruise operations’ following a prolonged break in operations due to the pandemic and with little hope in sight as much of Southeast Asia still closed to tourism. Pandaw has cancelled all its Asian river cruises with key Mekong cruises in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos having been at a standstill due to border closures and the political situation in Myanmar further affecting the business. Pandaw apparently had a good volume of bookings for 2022, but was unable to secure necessary funding for operations or essential refurbishments of its ships

AIR

Transat exec Joseph Adamo, joined Stéphane Poirier, President and CEO of Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport; Geneviève Guilbault, Quebec Deputy Premier; Caroline Proulx, Minister of Tourism; and Robert Mercure, General Manager of Destination Québec cité to announce new London flights from YQB.

Four new routes will be added to its Air Transat’s 2022 summer flight program. For the first time ever, the airline will serve San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Amsterdam airports from Montreal, as well as offering an exclusive direct flight between Quebec City and London. Routes to Fort Lauderdale and Miami will also go year-round.

This winter, WestJet is set to restore service and connectivity to more than 95 destinations across the airline’s domestic, transborder, sun, and international network as of December. Highlights include the addition of seven returning flights from Toronto for a total of non-stop service to 55 destinations, as well as 61 destinations from Calgary, 24 from Edmonton, non-stops from Winnipeg to Cancun, Orlando and Regina, and peak holiday flights between Kelowna and YYZ.

Air Canada has introduced (for sale) new testing products, including portable self-administered COVID-19 molecular and antigen test kits, through a partnership with Switch Health, a Canadian-based healthcare company. Using the Switch Health COVID-19 RT-LAMP Kit, customers can test themselves while travelling abroad prior to their flight to Canada to meet Canadian testing entry requirements without the need to visit a foreign COVID-19 testing clinic. The tests are conducted under the remote supervision of a Telehealth professional from Switch Health and include an electronic report suitable for travel. Preferred pricing is available for Aeroplan members. See HERE for details.

TOURS

Bran Castle

With Halloween in mind, Insight Vacations notes that its 18-day “Treasures of the Balkans” tour features a private after-hours visit to Bran Castle, dubbed Dracula’s Castle, in Transylvania. The medieval fortress, dating to 1388, is perched on 60 m.-high rock and features soaring towers and turrets. A local expert tells the tale of Count Dracula and the life of Queen Marie of Romania, the granddaughter of England’s Queen Victoria who was the last royal resident of the castle from 1920 to 1938. Guests may have the opportunity to explore the castle’s secret and underground passages as well. The tour ends with dinner at Queen Marie’s Tea House.

Air Canada Vacations and Uplift have announced a partnership bringing flexible payment options to Canadians seeking to book their next vacation getaway. Travellers can pay for their trips over time with Uplift on the ACV web site.

HOTELS

Located at the corner of King St. and Blue Jays Way in the heart of downtown, the King Blue Hotel Toronto is now open. Utilizing the exterior of the historic Canadian Westinghouse Company Building, the new hotel has 118 sleek and contemporary guestrooms, including seven suites, ideal for both business or leisure travellers. Guest amenities include a deluxe indoor swimming pool, modern fully equipped fitness centre, rooftop terrace, and pet-friendly rooms.

Nestled on Bay Harbor on the edge of Biscayne Bay within walking distance to the beaches of Bal Harbour, the Altair Hotel is Miami Beach’s newest luxury hotel. Overlooking nearby golf courses and the Intracoastal Waterway, the 96-room boutique property offers an intimate hotel experience with resort-like amenities, including a rooftop pool and whirlpool, fitness centre, concierge services, and access to bicycles, scooters, kayaks, and paddleboards. A high-end kosher restaurant and dining program will soon be added.

RESORTS

Following Cuba’s announcement of the gradual reopening of borders as of Nov. 15, the Iberostar Group has begun to plan a schedule of re-openings for the coming months. Today (Nov. 1), will see the re-opening of Iberostar Grand Packard, Iberostar Selection Bella Vista Varadero, Iberostar Selection Ensenachos, Coral Level at Iberostar Selection Ensenachos, and Iberostar Daiquiri. On Dec. 1, Iberostar Bella Costa, in Varadero, and Iberostar Selection Holguín will reopen, along with the Coral Level at Iberostar Selection Holguín. Some other openings include, on Dec. 22, Iberostar Playa Alameda and Iberostar Heritage Grand Trinidad, and Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar, in Cayo Guillermo, in January.

Set to open on Nov. 13, the Ventus Ha’ at Marina El Cid Spa & Beach Resort will be the third property at the El Cid’s Riviera Maya complex in Mexico and eighth resort overall. The all-inclusive resort will have 150 rooms and suites with private terraces, plus two restaurants and bars (including rooftop), and wellness/fitness centre. Guests can also utilize facilities at the neighbouring sister hotels.

CRUISE

US health officials have extended for nearly three more months the rules that cruise ships must follow to sail during the pandemic, after which cruise lines will be allowed, starting to Jan. 15, 2022, to move to a voluntary program to detect and control the spread of COVID-19 on their ships.

More than 150 destinations in 65 countries and the chance to visit 11 great wonders of the world are on tap for guests on the 2023-24 world cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Sea. Bookings can now be made for the “Ultimate World Cruise,”, which will sail roundtrip from Miami on Dec. 10, 2023, and continue through Sept. 10, 2024. With 57 destinations that are new to the cruise line, highlights include Casablanca, Morocco; Qaqortoq, Greenland; and Shimizu, Japan – the gateway to Mount Fuji. The cruise can also be broken into four shorter regional segments of two to three months each.

EVENTS

Nov. 10-18: TL Network Canada is hosting three in-person events this Fall: Nov. 10 – Toronto West (Delta Toronto Airport); Nov. 17 – Edmonton (Delta Edmonton South); and Nov. 16 – Vancouver (JW Marriott Parq Vancouver). The regional conference will feature educational sessions and training, workshops, panels, a one-hour trade show and dinner with game show and prizes. Space is limited.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Travel Alberta reports the reappointment of three members to its board of directors, including the redesignation of Linda Southern-Heathcott as chair, along with welcoming two new members, Ryan Robb and Gail Stepanik-Keber.

Sandals Resorts’ Executive Chairman Adam Stewart has joined the executive committee of the World Travel & Tourism Council. His induction represents “the actionable change and strides forward made by Stewart throughout his time in the industry.” The WTTC represents the global Travel & Tourism private sector and members include 200 CEOs, chairs, and presidents of the world’s leading Travel & Tourism companies.

DESTINATIONS

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) says its continued lobbying efforts have resulted in improved access and half-price testing on island for Canadians, who are required to obtain a negative PCR result in order to return home. Canadian visitors to Jamaica will be able to book their required pre-departure COVID-19 molecular test directly through Baywest Wellness Clinic and Technological Solutions Ltd. (TSL) for US$75 (inclusive of taxes), a reduction of more than 50% off the previous PCR testing price. Visitors must schedule their test through a dedicated online laboratory portal in order to qualify for the exclusive rate. Tourists staying at a licensed hotel in Jamaica’s Resilient Corridors can schedule a PCR test to be conducted on property via a convenient concierge service.

This year’s Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival is a month-long hybrid celebration kicking off today (Nov. 1). For overseas friends, the fest presents a line-up of online experiences, such as the “Sustainable Cocktail” online masterclass hosted by Agung Prabowo of Penicillin bar, winner of Asia’s 50 Best Sustainable Bar Award for 2021. Master chefs from top Chinese restaurants across the city also will spearhead the “Chinese Omakase by Master Chefs” program. More events and ticket details can be found on the Discover Hong Kong website.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

CEOs Urge World Leaders to Do More Together in Race to Net Zero

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CEOs Urge World Leaders to Do More Together in Race to Net Zero

Geneva, Switzerland, October 31, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, hosted by the World Economic Forum, appealed to governments and world leaders to leverage COP26 as their best chance to halve emissions by 2030 and reach net-zero by 2050.

Signatories propose concrete steps to world leaders that would help businesses accelerate their emission reductions, scale up innovations and achieve a net-zero and nature-positive world by 2050.

“This letter sends a clear signal days before world leaders meet in Glasgow to agree measures that can safeguard our climate,” said Antonia Gawel, Head of Climate Action Platform, at the World Economic Forum. “Chief executives are committed to ambitious, and science aligned climate action, and welcome bold policies to accelerate decarbonization efforts around the world at the outset of this critical decade.”

“The World Economic Forum Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders has grown to over 100 members, said Christian Mumenthaler, Group Chief Executive Officer, Swiss Re. “The private sector is playing a huge role in climate leadership by pressing for action along its value chains. With more collaboration across industries, we can accelerate the green transition.”

“For me this is personal, I will double my efforts and expect businesses, government and society to do the same,” said Jesper Brodin, Chief Executive Officer, Ingka Group | IKEA. “We will achieve and transition to a net-zero future that is good for both people and the planet, by working together. That is why we encourage more CEO’s to join us at the World Economic Forum Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders in the progress towards a new economy where everyone can be a winner.”

Following the lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, COP26 will provide a platform for members of the Alliance, world leaders, government officials and representatives of the NGO community, to tackle the climate crisis together.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ITB Asia 2021 Virtual Closes on High with 42,100 Business Meetings

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ITB Asia 2021 Virtual Closes on High with 42,100 Business Meetings

Singapore, Singapore, October 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Today marks the successful conclusion of the extensive event programme, networking opportunities and business-driven discussions at ITB Asia 2021. For the first time, Asia’s leading travel trade show spanned an entire week, and as usual covered both current and forward-looking leisure, MICE, corporate travel and travel technology topics.

• Discover Singapore with VisitSingapore.org, a World of Passion, go to VisitSingapore.org

An impressive 42,100 business meetings and exchanges were recorded throughout the week, representing an increase of 31 percent from 2020. The event hosted over 900 buyers and 400 sponsors & exhibitors from around the world who participated in the show’s vibrant agenda of conferences and networking sessions, supported by leading global companies and destinations, including Best Western Hotels & Resorts, Busan Tourism Organisation, Business Events Perth, Danang Center for Tourism Promotion, Department of Information and Tourism,Taipei City Government, Far East Hospitality, Frasers Hospitality, Goyang Convention Bureau, Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation, Jeju Convention Bureau, Leningrad Region, Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Bureau, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Organisation, Melbourne Convention Bureau, Melia Hotels Group, St. Petersburg Convention Bureau, United Airlines, Worldhotels Collection, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Yokohama Convention Bureau.

The show featured more than 3,200 exhibitor showcases, creating a favorable marketplace for buyers and sellers to engage in meaningful business meetings and discussions. Asia’s leading travel trade show, which was eagerly awaited by the industry, was hosted virtually on the well-established online platform, ITB Community in Asia (ITB Community).

Katrina Leung, Managing Director of Messe Berlin (Singapore), the organiser of ITB Asia shared: “We are proud that with this year’s virtual ITB Asia, we were once again able to provide a unique meeting platform for the travel industry in surely one of the most challenging times. I am very pleased with the outcome of the show. Building on our experience with the virtual edition last year, we were able to further expand the event format and give our clients more opportunities for interactive engagements with the travel community. We look forward to welcoming the industry back in-person in Singapore from 19 – 21 October 2022, bringing back human connections through face-to-face business meetings and networking sessions. I would also like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank this year’s Elite Partners, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) and the Saudi Tourism Authority, for their support and cooperation over the past months”.

Recovery and growth of travel represented the 2021 conference theme

Under the overarching theme of “The Decade Ahead: Braving New Realities in Travel”, this year’s conference programme delivered captivating insights on how to lead the industry towards recovery and growth, setting the tone for the changes that the industry is likely to see in the next months. Over 150 key industry experts delivered fascinating insights at the keynote sessions, as well as focused topics for the MICE and Corporate segment, Leisure Travel, the Travel Tech space and Tours, Activities & Attractions amongst others.

With the virtual format of the trade show, over 250 sessions have been made available on-demand for all registered delegates to view and watch again till 28 November 2021.

Next year’s edition of ITB Asia is scheduled to take place as an in-person event in Singapore from 19-21 October 2022. Stand registration for ITB Asia 2022 is available through this link.

• Discover Singapore with VisitSingapore.org, a World of Passion, go to VisitSingapore.org

About ITB Asia
ITB Asia, Asia’s leading travel trade show, is organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore) Pte Ltd and supported by the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau. The annual B2B trade show and convention will feature hundreds of exhibiting companies from the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East, covering not only the leisure market, but also MICE and corporate travel. Exhibitors from every sector of the industry, including destinations, airlines and airports, hotels and resorts, theme parks and attractions, inbound tour operators, inbound DMCs, cruise lines, spas, venues, other meeting facilities and travel technology companies are all expected to attend.

ITB Asia is the premier meeting place for the travel trade industry for forging new partnerships and strengthening existing business relationships with the most important players in the region.

About MICE Show Asia
MICE Show Asia is the premier MICE event in Asia where incentive travel, meetings and events industries come together to connect and build the future of MICE. The annual business-to-business trade show and convention featured industry suppliers, meetings & events professionals to up-and-coming MICE innovators from a wide range of disciplines, sectors and all levels of seniority. The show is co-located with ITB Asia and Travel Tech Asia.

About Travel Tech Asia
Travel Tech Asia is the premier travel technology show in Asia. The trade show is where latest technologies, emerging trends, leading travel brands and innovative start-ups are all at one place to create the new possibilities of travel. From travel tech suppliers, innovative start-ups and leading travel brands who are at the forefront of the industry transformation, Travel Tech Asia welcomes attendees from all levels of seniority across a wide range of disciplines and sectors in the travel industry. The conference will be co-located with ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PUBS, PATIOS & BARS: Liberty for all at Toronto’s Brazen Head

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Finding a great pub while travelling is great; finding one in your hometown is even better; but finding one in your hometown that reminds you of travelling is surely the ultimate – after all, it’s the best of both worlds: ease of access, faraway dreams.

That’s how I felt this week when I discovered the Brazen Head in Toronto, or, I should say, was introduced to it, thanks to Tourism Ireland, which hosted an event there.

I dare say I know a few pubs in T.O., but this one was unknown to me, largely because it exists in the newish Liberty Village neighbourhood which many locals aren’t familiar with (myself included). It’s an area bordered by Strachan in the east, Dufferin in the west, King Street (and Lamport Stadium) on the north, and the CNE in the south.

I must say the bustling Village surprised me – a neat mixed-use enclave of new-build condos and offices wrapped around neighbourhood retail and dining options and set amongst and encompassing historical manufacturing and industrial buildings that date in some cases to the late 1800s.

Which is to say, it reminded a lot of London or Dublin, not least the Brazen Head, which, being an Irish pub, would particularly be at home in Temple Bar.

The bar

The interior of the pub is spacious with both bar and dining area, the latter centred by a fireplace. Where the multi-level establishment perhaps differs (in a good way) from the traditional British/Irish city pub is its extensive patio space, with not one, but three spaces, including at ground level and on the rooftop. A cocktail bar dubbed The Black Sheep can also be found upstairs.

An extensive daily tap menu offers close to two dozen craft offerings from the GTA and southern Ontario – I had a tasty Barking Squirrel – plus Ireland and further afield, along with wines, seltzers, ciders, and cocktails. Food is elevated pub fare ranging from poutine to fish and chips, meatloaf, and salads. My bacon-cheeseburger was gone quite quickly.

I was there at lunch on a Tuesday, so out of time for the live music sessions Thursday to Saturday nights, nor was the fire yet roaring. But believe that I will be back there again.

The Brazen Head is located 165 E. Liberty, nearer the Strachan end of the village. There’s limited (paid) parking in front, but a big lot a short stroll away (plus street parking). It’s open daily 12-12 Mon.-Wed., noon-2 a.m. Thurs.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat., and 11 a.m.-midnight Sundays.

Patio

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

Hyatt Plans Grand Hyatt at The Red Sea Development in Saudi Arabia

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Hyatt Plans Grand Hyatt at The Red Sea Development in Saudi ArabiaShaura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, October 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with The Red Sea Development Company for a 430-room Grand Hyatt hotel on Shaura Island, the hub of the ambitious Red Sea Project on Saudi Arabia’s west coast. The luxury resort hotel will represent the largest of 11 hotels set to open on the island and will occupy a prime position within this innovative tourist development. Grand Hyatt The Red Sea will be the second Grand Hyatt hotel in the Kingdom and the seventh Grand Hyatt hotel in the Middle East, marking an important milestone in Hyatt’s growth strategy in the region.

Slated to open as part of phase one of the Red Sea Project, the property will be designed to reflect the bold and vibrant luxury synonymous with the Grand Hyatt brand, featuring sophisticated design, materials and decor inspired by the iconic elements present in the destination. Grand Hyatt The Red Sea will feature a striking architectural “coral bloom” design, a unique concept that resembles a bloom of coral in the sea from above, that will offer a sense of luxury that blends seamlessly with the natural environment. A tasteful mix of suites and large standard rooms will provide guests with a comfortable and upscale place from which to explore the area’s diverse ecosystem and endless attractions. World-class food and beverage venues and the wider amenities of the hub island, which will include a marina and an 18-hole championship golf course, will complete the luxury hotel experience within a breathtaking setting.

Located in close proximity to the soon to be developed Red Sea International Airport, Grand Hyatt The Red Sea will be easily accessible from both international and regional markets. It is the only Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) location to enjoy mild temperatures year-round and is home to one of the world’s largest barrier reefs, coupled with an abundance of flora and fauna, juxtaposed with a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape with dramatic mountain ranges dotted with dormant volcanoes, turquoise lagoons and white beaches.

“Grand Hyatt The Red Sea represents a key milestone within Hyatt’s strategy to expand its luxury resort offering in the Middle East”, said Ludwig Bouldoukian, regional vice president of development for the Middle East and Africa. “It is an honor to be able to showcase the Grand Hyatt brand in one of the Kingdom’s most innovative tourism developments and become part of this historic moment. Grand Hyatt The Red Sea will be at the forefront of the project, helping shape the island’s unique identity and contribute to a destination that redefines the concept of sustainable luxury. The resort will be an extension of Hyatt’s expanding luxury brand offerings, enhancing the way we cater to today’s increasingly diverse travelers who are seeking captivating moments from what will be an iconic destination.”

The Red Sea Project is designed to set new standards in sustainability and expects to position Saudi Arabia firmly on the global tourism map. The luxury destination created around one of the world’s hidden natural treasures is committed to preserving and actively enhancing the natural environment which spans 10,800 square miles (28,000 square kilometers). It includes an archipelago of more than 90 untouched natural islands, as well as dormant volcanoes, desert, mountains, and cultural sites.

The destination is expected to be the first tourism project of its size to be powered solely by renewable energy, with avoided CO2 emissions to the atmosphere equivalent to at least half a million tons each year. Cars, helicopters, e-bikes, golf buggies, vans trucks, seaplanes and buses will all operate on hydrogen and electricity as part of a smart and sustainable mobility strategy. Sustainability and diversification represent an important facet of the government’s Vision 2030, to develop the region and attract international travelers.

The Red Sea Project is the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism project and in order to deliver against our commitments, it is essential that we work with leading international brands like Hyatt. Grand Hyatt The Red Sea represents the largest hotel in Phase One and the centre piece of our hub island, Shaura”, said John Pagano, CEO at TRSDC. “I can’t think of a brand better placed to operate this unique property, given Hyatt’s global expertise and the enthusiasm demonstrated to engage with our sustainable and regenerative commitments. We look forward to welcoming guests to experience a new level of barefoot luxury tourism.”

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company offering 20 premier brands. As of June 30, 2021, the Company’s portfolio included more than 1,000 hotel and all-inclusive properties in 68 countries across six continents. The Company’s purpose to care for people so they can be their best informs its business decisions and growth strategy and is intended to attract and retain top employees, build relationships with guests and create value for shareholders. The Company’s subsidiaries operate, manage, franchise, own, lease, develop, license, or provide services to hotels, resorts, branded residences, and vacation ownership properties, including under the Park Hyatt®, Miraval®, Grand Hyatt®, Alila®, Andaz®, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®, Destination by Hyatt™, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt®, Hyatt Ziva™, Hyatt Zilara™, Thompson Hotels®, Hyatt Centric®, Caption by Hyatt, JdV by Hyatt™, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Place®, tommie™, UrCove, and Hyatt Residence Club® brand names, and operates the World of Hyatt® loyalty program that provides distinct benefits and exclusive experiences to its valued members.

About The Red Sea Development Company
The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC – www.theredsea.sa) is a closed joint-stock company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia. TRSDC was established to drive the development of The Red Sea Project, a luxury, regenerative tourism destination that will set new standards in sustainable development and position Saudi Arabia on the global tourism map.

The project is being developed over 28,000 km2 of pristine lands and waters along Saudi Arabia’s west coast and includes a vast archipelago of more than 90 pristine islands. The destination also features sweeping desert dunes, mountain canyons, dormant volcanoes, and ancient cultural and heritage sites. It is designed to include hotels, residential properties, leisure, commercial and entertainment amenities, as well as supporting infrastructure that emphasizes renewable energy and water conservation and re-use, as well as a circular waste management system to achieve zero waste to landfill.

Activity for the first phase of development is well underway and is on track to be completed by the end of 2023. The project has surpassed significant milestones, with over 600 contracts signed to date, worth over SAR 17bn ($4.5bn).

The 100-hectare Landscape Nursery, which will provide more than 25 million plants for the destination, is now fully operational. There are more than 9,000 workers currently on-site and 80km of new roads are now complete, including the new airport road, to better connect the destination. The Construction Village, set to house 10,000 workers, is now open and development is progressing well at the Coastal Village, which will be home to around 14,000 people who will eventually work at the destination.

Read original article at Hyatt Newsroom

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Barcelona Call to Action Maps Way Forward for Tourism

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Barcelona Call to Action Maps Way Forward for Tourism - TRAVELINDEXBarcelona, Spain, October 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism has united around a common Call to Action, outlining a shared vision for the sustainable and inclusive future of the sector. On the second day of the Future of Tourism World Summit in Barcelona (26-27 October), UNWTO was joined by fellow UN agencies, government Ministers, and public and private sector leaders, in agreeing to seize the opportunity to restart and recover better from the impacts of the pandemic. The Call to Action brings together the solutions and plans put forward during the two-day summit, recognizing the importance of transforming tourism ‘for people, for planet and for prosperity’.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Tourism must lead the way

Clear leadership to secure the financing necessary to build a more sustainable future. As world leaders get ready to meet in Glasgow for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), it states that “tourism must lead the way in adapting, becoming more sustainable and transitioning towards net-zero growth”. Among the key players backing the plan are UNWTO’s fellow the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), along with leading businesses, destinations and governments.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili underscored the need for “clear leadership to secure the financing necessary to build a more sustainable future”. He added that “the Barcelona Call to Action signals our sector’s readiness to lead the way, face up to and overcome challenges and build a better tourism for all”.

SDGs as reference for growth

The Call to Action was announced at the close of the two-day summit. Organized by the Advanced Leadership Foundation, and the Incyde Foundation of the Chambers of Commerce of Spain, with the support of UNWTO, this was the first major event focused on looking ahead held since the start of the pandemic. Its focus aligned with many of the key priorities of UNWTO’s work, most notably an emphasis on securing more and more effective funding to help transform the sector, as well as on the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

The ten-point Call to Action includes a commitment to more fully integrating tourism into national and local action plans, ensuring the sector is engaged in issues such as housing, the use of public space and the use of infrastructure. It also highlights the need to ensure the sector’s restart and future growth adhere to the principles of the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism and are aligned with the ambitions of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Reveals Saudi Arabia as Host for its 22nd Global Summit

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WTTC Reveals Saudi Arabia as Host for its 22nd Global Summit - TRAVELINDEXRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, October 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which represents the global Travel & Tourism sector, announces that its 22nd Global Summit will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, at the end of 2022.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

WTTC’s annual Global Summit is the world’s most influential and Travel & Tourism event. Saudi Arabia has been leading a new global approach to ‘redesign tourism’ and this summit in Riyadh will see industry leaders gathering with key government representatives to drive support for the sector’s ongoing recovery, moving it to a more safer, resilient, inclusive and sustainable future.

The event in Saudi Arabia will follow the next highly anticipated Global Summit which is taking place in Manila, Philippines, from 14-16 March 2022.

Speaking from the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said:

“Since the very beginning, when the pandemic brought international travel to an almost complete standstill, Saudi Arabia has shown its total commitment to our sector, ensuring it has remained at the forefront of the global agenda.

“It has been instrumental in leading the recovery of a sector which is critical to economies, jobs and livelihoods around the world.

“For that we are grateful and want to recognise their incredible efforts by bringing the Global Travel & Tourism sector to the Kingdom next year.”

His Excellency Al Khateeb, Minister for Tourism for Saudi Arabia said:

“I welcome the decision to choose Saudi Arabia as the host country for the next WTTC Global Summit in 2022. This is a critical forum for the private sector and government to come together to redesign tourism for the future, and it is fantastic to hold this event in the Kingdom. This is recognition of Saudi leadership to help the global tourism sector recover, and importantly, become more sustainable. I look forward to welcoming all WTTC Members next year.”

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

Further details of the WTTC Global Summit in Riyadh will be announced in due course.

To coincide with this announcement, latest research from WTTC shows the Middle Eastern Travel & Tourism sector is set to grow by 27.1% this year ahead of Europe and Latin America.

The research also shows that if governments prioritise Travel & Tourism, jobs in the sector could reach 6.6m in 2022, approaching pre-pandemic levels.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News