Global Travel News

WEF: New Principles Provide Roadmap for Net-Zero Buildings

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WEF: New Principles Provide Roadmap for Net-Zero Buildings

New York City, New York, United States, October 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Collective action must be taken to accelerate the decarbonization of buildings, which contribute 38% of all energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. A new action plan released today by the World Economic Forum offers a set of principles to help companies deliver net-zero carbon buildings and meet key climate commitments.

The Green Building Principles: The Action Plan for Net Zero Carbon provides a clear sequence of steps to deliver net-zero carbon buildings. Developed in conjunction with JLL and the Forum’s Real Estate CEO community, it includes a set of key principles companies can formally adopt along with an action plan on how to implement them.

“The climate crisis is the greatest challenge humanity has ever faced. It will affect every aspect of our lives and threatens the entire global economy and we must rapidly deploy the solutions we already have in hand to avert its most catastrophic impacts,” said Al Gore, Vice-President of the United States (1993-2001), Chairman and Co-Founder, Generation Investment Management. “Buildings are a large and often overlooked contributor to this crisis, but with investments in clean energy and energy efficiency, we can begin solving the climate crisis, create tens of millions of jobs, and build a better future.”

“As increased action on the climate crisis becomes more urgent every year, it’s important that all leaders find new ways to take action,” said Børge Brende, President, World Economic Forum. “Business leaders have a great opportunity to take climate action just by ensuring their own offices and properties are sustainable and moving towards a net-zero future. Increasing sustainability in the office, and across value chains, is a critical step for all businesses to take.”

“2021 has been the year of net zero carbon commitments. As part of this, the built environment has demonstrated leadership with companies, investors, architects, cities, and regions signing up to the Race to Zero,” said Nigel Topping, High-Level Climate Action Champion, COP26 Climate Champions, United Kingdom. “2022 will be the year in which we develop strategies for meaningfully delivering against these net zero carbon commitments. This Action Plan launched by the World Economic Forum provides the guidance that real estate portfolios need to do this in a comprehensive and cost-effective way.”

The Principles

  1. Calculate a robust carbon footprint of your portfolio in the most recent representative year to inform targets
  2. Set a target year for achieving net-zero carbon, by 2050 at the latest, and an interim target for reducing at least 50% of these emissions by 2030
  3. Measure and record embodied carbon of new developments and major refurbishments.
  4. Maximize emissions reductions for all new developments and major refurbishments in the pipeline to ensure delivery of net-zero carbon (operational and embodied) by selected final target year
  5. Drive energy optimization across both existing assets and new developments
  6. Maximize supply of on-site renewable energy.
  7. Ensure 100% off-site energy is procured from renewable-backed sources, where available
  8. Engage with stakeholders with whom you have influence in your value chain to reduce scope 3 emissions
  9. Compensate for any residual emissions by purchasing high-quality carbon offsets
  10. Engage with stakeholders to identify joint endeavours and equitably share costs and benefits of interventions

The action plan provides globally applicable guidance on best practices to implement the principles for every stakeholder, from owners to occupiers to investors.

Industry Leadership

“The pandemic has underscored the need for action on climate, and buildings provide the perfect opportunity to address a large share of global emissions,” said Christian Ulbrich, Global Chief Executive Officer and President, JLL. “We can and must work to deliver net-zero carbon buildings and the companies that do so first will lead the sector.”

“We must act now, and everyone from engineers to occupiers to investors have to be part of this journey,” said Coen van Oostrom, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, EDGE. “The principles offer the necessary roadmap and companies of all types need to evolve their mindsets around their buildings. We must think in terms of renovation, circularity and digitalization. Viewing the built environment as supportive to societal well-being and the planet is the necessary paradigm shift.”

Ahead of November’s COP26, both the public and private sectors have been making commitments to reduce emissions and reach key climate targets in alignment with the Paris Agreement. These commitments are essential and many of them provide valuable guidance. But the roadmap for meeting these targets has been missing. The new principles and action plan provide that roadmap and help companies implement their existing commitments.

In an open letter also released today, the Forum’s Real Estate CEO community Co-Chairs Ulbrich and van Oostrom urge their peers, across a wide range of industries, to formally adopt the principles and commit to reducing their buildings-related emissions by at least 50% by 2030 and deliver net-zero carbon real estate portfolios no later than 2050.

“The World Green Building Council encourages companies to reinforce climate action by adopting the World Economic Forum’s new principles, which set out a clear pathway to deliver net-zero carbon buildings,” said Cristina Gamboa, Chief Executive Officer, World Green Building Council. “The principles are harmonious with our Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment and we hope that businesses across all industries take this opportunity to step-up ambition to decarbonize their building portfolios.”

“We are running out of time and the built environment is critical to mitigate warming,” said Kalin Bracken, Real Estate Lead, World Economic Forum. “This is an issue that goes beyond just the real estate industry. Every industry has a role to play in addressing their real estate footprint and that’s a message we really need to send.”

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Ritz-Carlton Debuts in Mexico City, Shining a New Light on This Center of Commerce and Culture

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The Ritz Carlton_exterior_horizontal.jpg
The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City is located along the Paseo de Reforma and features uninterrupted views of Chapultepec Park.
Edgardo Contreras

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is excited to announce the debut of The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, providing discerning travelers with a new way to discover one of the world’s most dynamic destinations. Transforming the city’s skyline and sitting amongst the country’s tallest buildings, the hotel is centrally located along the iconic Paseo de Reforma and showcases uninterrupted views of the famed Chapultepec Park. Featuring the legendary service of the brand’s Ladies and Gentlemen, each detail of the hotel is thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in the city’s rich culture and offer a unique perspective on this beloved destination.

“We are thrilled to bring The Ritz-Carlton brand to Mexico City, exemplifying our commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences and creating meaningful memories in the world’s most exciting markets,” said Donna McNamara, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Ritz-Carlton. “Whether enjoying a hotel tour with a local historian to be immersed into the Mexican rituals and celebrations that inspired the hotel design, or allowing our Ladies and Gentlemen to curate a day of exploration in the city, we are excited to provide both guests and locals with a unique lens on this incredible destination.”

Soaring 58-stories high, The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City is located in a stunning building concepted by Taller G and features 153 guest rooms and suites. Capitalizing on its enviable location and views, a double glass façade provides unique open-air terraces, inviting guests to discover a new perspective on the enchanting city. The interiors, designed by Chapi Chapo Design, were created to serve as a looking glass into Mexico City’s dynamic past, present, and future. Paying homage to the city’s profound influence on the surrealist art movement, the hotel embraces the way famed Mexican artists like Frida Kahlo, Gunther Gerzso and Leonora Carrington celebrated their indigenous roots and broke away from colonial influences. At The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, the use of metals, mirrors and glass serve to reflect the exterior into the interior, creating a surrealist experience by playing with perspective and distorting the surrounding, traditional architecture. While a neutral color palette invokes a sense of calm, shades of smokey ash, deep blues, and metallic fibers are woven in throughout the hotel as a nod to Mexican storytelling and folklore.

“The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City will act as a literal and figurative gateway along the Paseo de Reforma, welcoming and encouraging guests to learn about the colorful history, dynamic present and bright future of Mexico City,” stated Luis Lopez, General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City. “The Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City are eager to welcome our guests and accompany them on a memorable journey during their stay.”

Featuring unparalleled service, The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City celebrates legendary Mexican hospitality and offers guests a highly personalized experience. The hotel features a wide range of carefully curated amenities designed for cultural discovery and epicurean adventures or business travel, including The Ritz-Carlton Club® Lounge with an exclusive Club Concierge, a heated indoor swimming pool, large fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment and a signature Ritz-Carlton Spa with six luxurious treatment rooms. Bringing the destination to life in a unique way, The Ritz-Carlton Spa thoughtfully sources local ingredients and botanicals, which are then coupled with the healing and spiritual traditions of Mexico City’s Aztec culture. In addition to relaxing and rejuvenating treatments, the spa features an assortment of wellness areas, including steam rooms, saunas, and a timeless capsule room.

Dining at Samos, the Mediterranean inspired restaurant on the 38th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, guests can enjoy cuisine featuring dynamic local flavors for a one-of-a-kind experience. Bringing vast luxury experience and expertise in Mexican, Italian, French, Peruvian and Argentinian cuisines, Chef Jonathan Felix has carefully created each dish to offer a culinary journey where flavors and sensations are elevated with every bite. The epicurean experiences continue through the dessert course with delicate sweets like Nido, an airy mango and passion fruit mousse encased in white chocolate and cradled by a spun sugar nest.

The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City also offers more than 4,300 square feet of meeting space with floor to ceiling windows overlooking Chapultepec Park, ideally suited for a variety of events from meetings to celebratory occasions. The spaces have been designed to foster inspiration and connection whether a large gathering in the ballroom or an intimate board meeting.

For more information or to reserve a stay, please visit the hotel’s website here.

Media Contacts:
Lee Edelstein
The Brandman Agency
lee@brandmanagency.com
+1(212)683-2442

Virginia Rojas/Mariana Garmendia
The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City
virginia.rojas@ritzcarlton.com/ Mariana.Garmendia@ritzcarlton.com

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Bethesda, MD, part of Marriott International, Inc., currently operates more than 100 hotels in 32 countries and territories. For more information or reservations, visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR). The Ritz-Carlton 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.marriott.com.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of roughly 7,800 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 138 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Santander Golf Tour Barcelona and Ladies European Tour Access

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Santander Golf Tour Barcelona and Ladies European Tour Access

Barcelona, Spain, October 28,2021 / TRAVELINDEX / For the second time, the Santander Golf Tour and the Ladies European Tour Access event under the name of Santander Golf Tour Barcelona, has returned to Real Club de Golf El Prat.

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

From October 20th to 22nd, 95 players came to play in the last event of the year of the Let Access Series. Thanks to its proximity to Barcelona, just 25 minutes away, it has been very easy for the players to fly to Barcelona from 29 different countries to play one of the finest golf courses in Europe.

The course was nicely prepared to receive the Letas players in the best conditions. The fairways were smooth and the greens were fast being one of the great challenges of the course.

During the first two days, the weather was nice with just a few hours of rain but the girls showed an amazing game. After all, 59 players made the cut that was set at +11.

On the 3rd round, the amateur Charlotte Liautier was in first position with -2 followed by the local player, Mireia Prat at level par and the English player, Rachael Goodall, also at level par. A very close final, with birdies and triple-bogey that were changing the leaderboard all day long. At the last minute, another amateur appeared at the first positions of the leaderboard: 16-year-old German Helen Briem.

” The strategy on the course is very important because the course is demanding. But i have played very good and I stayed patience along the way” – Charlotte Liautier

On the last 18th hole, par 5, she had an eagle putt and came out with three putts for a total of +1. These three putts kept her from going to playoff or even winning the tournament, which was for the French amateur Liautier with a total of par. In addition, as this tournament has been the last of the year, the first six players on the letas ranking have secured and have been giving the LET card for the 2022 season: : Lily May Humphreys, Gabrielle Macdonald. Nina Pegova, Rachael Goodall, Sofie Brigner y Emilia Tukiainen.

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

The general feedback has been positive, praising the course, the Club staff and the organization of the tournament by Deporte & Business. A demanding course that has put the best players in Europe to test.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Middle East Tourism Sector to Recover by Over a Quarter in 2021

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Middle East Tourism Sector to Recover by Over a Quarter in 2021

London, United Kingdom, October 28, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / New research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals the Middle Eastern Travel & Tourism sector should grow by 27.1% this year, slightly behind the global average of 30.7%. If governments prioritise Travel & Tourism, jobs in the sector could reach 6.6m in 2022 approaching pre-pandemic levels.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

WTTC, which represents the global Travel & Tourism private sector, says slow vaccination rates in some countries, coupled with international restrictions in key source markets, have prevented people from travelling to the region, hindering the sector’s recovery in the Middle East.

Before the pandemic struck, the Middle East’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP represented US$ 270 billion (8.9% of the total economy).

According to the research, at the current rate of recovery, the Middle East region will recover just over a quarter in 2021, following a drop of 51.1% in 2020.

This growth, whilst slower than expected, is ahead of other major Travel & Tourism regions such as Europe and Latin America and represents a year on year increase of US$36 billion to the region’s economy.

The data also reveals that the Middle East region could see a similar year on year rise of 28.1% in 2022, representing a further boost of US$ 47 billion.

Whilst the local economy has benefited from a rise in domestic spend of 38.6% this year, and a projected 19.2% in 2022, recent changes to international travel restrictions are expected to provide a significant boost in international spending, which is critical to the region’s economy.

The global tourism body’s research shows that international spending is expected to grow by 37.9% this year, driven by a rise in visitors from neighbouring countries which provided a boost to the sector over the recent months.

As this trend continues into 2022 and with more international visitors expected from outside of the region, WTTC predicts a further year on year increase in international travel spend of 51.8%.

After a loss of almost 1.2 million Travel & Tourism jobs last year when travel restrictions brought international mobility to a halt, employment is set to rise by a mere 1% in 2021.

However, employment could rise by 8.2% year on year in 2022, providing an additional 470,000 Travel & Tourism jobs, to a total of 6.2m people employed in the sector.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Our research clearly shows that while the Middle East’s Travel & Tourism sector is slowly beginning to recover, it is still far from pre-pandemic levels in terms of the sector’s contribution to the region’s economy and employment.

“As we look into the future, the Middle East has strong growth potential following the reopening of its borders to international travellers. We have seen countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE implement policies to restart international travel safely and we hope to see a harmonised approach across the region.”

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

These measures include allowing fully vaccinated travellers to move freely, irrespective of their origin or eventual destination.

Secondly, the implementation of digital solutions which enable all travellers to easily prove their COVID status in turn speeding up the process at borders.

Thirdly, for safe international travel to fully restart, governments must recognise all vaccines authorised by WHO.

Fourthly, continued support of the COVAX/UNICEF initiative to ensure equitable distribution of vaccines around the world.

Finally, the continued implementation of enhanced health and safety protocols.

The future could be brighter for the Middle East

If these five vital measures are followed before the end of 2021, research shows the impact on the economy and jobs across Middle East could be considerable.

The Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP could rise by 33% (US$ 44 billion) by the end of this year, and a further year or year rise in 2022 of 30% (US$ 53 billion).

According to the research, domestic spending could increase by 40.1% this year, followed by a 21.7% growth in 2022.

However, international spending could outpace domestic spending this year, with a year on year increase of 50%, followed by a similar rise next year of 52.1%.

This in turn could have a positive effect on employment in the region with a 5.7% increase in jobs this year, and a year or year increase of 9.8% in 2022.

These additional jobs would bring the total number of those working in the sector to 6.6m in 2022, approaching pre-pandemic levels.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Toki Air joins Sabre to Launch Leisure Focused Airline

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Toki Air joins Sabre to Launch Leisure Focused Airline

Niigata, Japan, October 28, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Radixx, a Sabre company and leading airline retailing software provider, today announced the company has entered into an agreement for the full Radixx product suite with TOKI AIR, a start-up low-cost carrier based in Japan’s port city, Niigata. TOKI AIR will initially focus its strategy on the regional leisure market with flights originating out of Niigata Airport to major domestic destinations within Japan.

TOKI AIR chose Radixx as its technology partner due to its established presence within Japan as well as its ability to meet the airline’s implementation timeline. As part of the engagement, TOKI AIR will take advantage of the full Radixx product suite including Radixx ezyCommerce, Radixx Res, Radixx Go, Radixx Go Touch, and Radixx Insight. The adoption of the full suite will enable the airline to launch sales with the most modern solutions and drive efficiencies from the start of operation.

“We were impressed by each of the product demos that we saw in regard to response times and automated processes that will help establish our airline operations,” said Masaki Hasegawa, Representative director, TOKI AIR. “We are grateful to the Sabre and Radixx team for their commitment to meet our implementation time. We believe that their existing footprint in Japan along with their breadth of products has allowed us to establish an exciting path forward with Sabre and the Radixx product suite as our chosen technology partner.”

To showcase its e-commerce offers, TOKI AIR will use Radixx ezyCommerce internet booking engine including a fully integrated Travel Agency Portal which will be used by local travel agents. TOKI AIR will maintain a high level of control over their online branding and offers using the Radixx ezyCommerce Content Management System.

TOKI AIR will go live on the Radixx Res passenger services system designed to optimize retailing strategies and conversion, with retailing built in the core, enabling centralized management of flight and value-added services. It is this centralized logic that will allow the airline to quickly setup fare and ancillary offers as well as automate processes that enable efficiency. The modern, intuitive interface supports their need for double-byte characters, enhancing the agent experience.

Radixx Go departure services suite and Radixx Go Touch mobile solutions will enable TOKI AIR to evolve its check-in operations at the airport and easily expand capacity during peak season using roaming agents. Together, the departure services desktop and mobile solutions will help create an efficient airport experience for travelers.

TOKI AIR will use Radixx Insight reporting and analytics tool to proactively make swift and meaningful business decisions in real-time.

“We are thrilled to further expand our valued partnerships in Japan and welcome TOKI AIR to the Sabre and Radixx community,” said Chris Collins, senior vice president and general manager for Radixx. “We are proud to provide their airline with our industry-leading technology and are deeply committed to facilitating a seamless implementation and go live for their airline.”

Together, Sabre and Radixx’s robust travel platform will provide the airline a one-stop shop in offer and order management through fulfillment and post-flight operations.

TOKI AIR operated a test flight from Tokyo Narita Airport to Sado Airport on May 24, 2021. TOKI AIR plans to launch sales in March 2022 and commence flight operations towards the middle of 2022. The airline also plans to expand its cargo business with ATR Cargo Flex aircraft.

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

About Radixx
Founded in 1993, Radixx, headquartered in Orlando, Florida, combines an innovative technology approach with unique partnership models enabling airlines of all sizes and business models to be effective retailers and efficient operators. Radixx caters to LCC and ULCC airlines, including the support of GDS distribution. Radixx offers a world-class Internet Booking Engine, Radixx ezyCommerce™, a cloud-based Passenger Services System, Radixx Res™, and a leading Departure Services Suite, Radixx Go™, uniquely designed to enable airlines to increase their profitability and maximize productivity through expanded distribution services. Since 2016, Radixx has delivered its sixth-generation, micro-services-based passenger services system.

About TOKI AIR
Established in 2020, TOKI AIR is a low-cost carrier jointly established by the Niigata Chamber of Commerce and Niigata Association of Corporate Executives. The new airline is expected to operate ATR aircraft to attractive routes such as Kansai area, Nagoya, Sendai, and Sapporo. TOKI AIR plans to commence operations in 2022. And TOKI AIR plans new route connected SADO-island and Tokyo.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Notches Prestigious Honours

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Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Notches Prestigious Honours - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXHa Noi, Vietnam, October 27, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi earned two distinctive honours this month, being named one of “Asia’s Top 30 Hotels” by readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine and also being selected as Hanoi’s No. 1 business hotel by the editors of Business Traveller Asia-Pacific.

The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry. The US-based magazine praised Metropole Hanoi’s “old-world colonial charm” and its outstanding personalized service, saying, “Everyone goes above and beyond to make you feel special.”

The five-star Metropole Hanoi was one of only five properties in Vietnam to appear on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2021 list of the “Top 30 Hotels in Asia,” and was further commended for its “spacious and richly appointed” guest rooms.

Meanwhile, Business Traveller Asia-Pacific’s editors tapped Metropole Hanoi as the “Best Business Hotel in Hanoi,” noting that this year’s awards “reflect a broader range of experiences than ever before.”

“These two awards serve to highlight that Metropole Hanoi, in good times and more challenging times, rises to the occasion. We look forward to continuing to provide world-class service, luxurious comfort, and memorable experiences to all who pass through our doors,” said Metropole Hanoi’s General Manager William Haandrikman.

Opened in 1901, Metropole Hanoi reigns as the Grand Dame of Vietnamese hospitality and is one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic hotels. The 364-room property in 2009 became the first hotel in the Sofitel portfolio to acquire the “Legend” distinction. The historic Metropole Wing features comfortable and opulent suites named after Graham Greene, Charlie Chaplin and Somerset Maugham, each of whom stayed at the property during their time in colonial Indochina.

Famous Metropole guests over the decades have ranged from Chaplin and Greene to Catherine Deneuve, Angelina Jolie and innumerable heads of state. The hotel’s popular “Path of History” tour, conducted by a hotel historian, showcases a look back at this illustrious past, including a visit to the underground bomb shelter that protected Joan Baez, Jane Fonda and others from air raids during the US-Vietnam War.

The hotel is also home to a number of celebrated restaurants, including Le Beaulieu (French high end), Spices Garden (Vietnamese), and angelina (cocktail bar, whisky lounge and rustic New World cuisine), as well as venues like Le Club Bar (home to Metropole’s famed Afternoon Tea experience and evening jazz), La Terrasse (a Parisian-style al fresco cafe) and the Bamboo Bar (for bespoke cocktails in the courtyard).

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tourism’s Sustainable Future Outlined at Barcelona Summit

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Tourism’s Sustainable Future Outlined at Barcelona Summit

Barcelona, Spain, October 27, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO joined the Advanced Leadership Foundation and the Incyde Foundation of the Chambers of Commerce of Spain for the opening day of the Future of Tourism World Summit (26-27 October 2021). The Summit represents the first time the sector has been brought together to look ahead held since the start of the pandemic.

Highlighting the unprecedented relevance of tourism, the Summit counts on the participation of leaders from business, politics and the international arena, with His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain serving as Honorary President. Joining UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili were Rebecca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Mauricio Claver-Carone, President of the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary-General of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Reyes Maroto, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism of Spain, Juan Verde, President of the Advanced Leadership Foundation, and José Luis Bonet, President of the Chambers of Commerce of Spain. Alongside them were 10 Ministers of Tourism attending in person, with more Ministers joining virtually.

Collaboration, financing and innovation

This Summit makes clear the importance of collaboration, as well as the vital role funding tourism and harnessing the power of innovation will play in building a more resilient and sustainable tourism

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “This Summit makes clear the importance of collaboration, as well as the vital role funding tourism and harnessing the power of innovation will play in building a more resilient and sustainable tourism.”

Joining Secretary-General Pololikashvili for a high-level debate on ‘Funding the Future of Tourism’, UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebecca Grynspan stressed that “tourism needs political support and investment.”. Ms Grynspan credited UNWTO for its work in promoting accreditation and certifications since the start of the crisis and added: “Tourism can be a very good energy and force to build back better, differently and together.”

In a programme which reflected the key priorities of UNWTO and global tourism in general, the focus of the first day was on funding the future of tourism, particularly accelerating the shift towards net-zero growth. With world leaders set to arrive in Glasgow for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) next week, the discussions in Barcelona made clear tourism’s determination to embrace innovation and secure the funding necessary to enable the sector lives up to its climate action responsibilities.

Barcelona ‘Call to Action’

The Summit will culminate in the ‘Barcelona Call to Action’, a statement of intent signed by governments, destinations and businesses outlining a shared vision for a greener, more inclusive and resilient tourism, citing the sector’s potential contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals and the shift to net-zero.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Centara Hotels and Resorts Opens Centara Mirage Resort Dubai

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Centara Hotels and Resorts Opens Centara Mirage Resort Dubai - TRAVELINDEXDubai, United Arab Emirates, October 27, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, will expand its global collection of world-class resorts with the opening of Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai on 14th October 2021, a fantastic new family-friendly destination which is inspired by mythical Thai and Arabian adventures and promises fun-filled, activity-packed stays for all ages.

The new resort, a joint venture with world-leading master developer Nakheel, creator of the award-winning Palm Jumeirah and the new Deira Islands waterfront city – will bring a new concept in hospitality to Dubai, in line with the emirate’s tourism strategy.

Nestled in a prime waterfront setting on the Deira Islands, overlooking the Arabian Gulf just 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport and just minutes away from the newly opened Souk Al Marfa seafront souk and marketplace, this brand-new themed resort offers 607 rooms and suites, ranging from Superior, Family and Mirage Rooms to Junior and Two-Bedroom Suites with 32 to 95 square metres of bright, contemporary space and panoramic city or sea views.

Mirage represents Centara’s themed family resort concept, where the whole family’s, and especially the children’s, happiness is at the heart of the experience. Parents can rest assured that their youngsters will enjoy unforgettable, inspiring stays, with a wonderful water park, multiple kids’ clubs, a colourful candy-themed children’s spa, and the dedicated Mirage Family Lounge, a club lounge experience for all the family. The rooms are perfectly suited to families, with flexible bedding options including bunk beds that accommodate up to two children.

Youngsters can spend exhilarating days at this aquatic oasis, which is centred around a thrilling water park with lagoon pools, a lazy river, kids’ splash play area, waterslides and cliff jumping platforms, rope climbing course, all surrounded by palm trees and sun decks. Winding wooden walkways lead to the golden beach and turquoise sea, which creates a sparkling setting for water sports.

Children will be kept entertained at three age-specific kids’ clubs, an outdoor playground and Candy Spa, the colourful, candy-themed children’s wellness zone. Adults can work out at the fully-equipped fitness centre and unwind with Thai-inspired therapies, including couples’ treatments at Spa Cenvaree.

Outstanding cuisine and social venues can be enjoyed at a choice of our nine dining experiences. Suan Bua specialises in authentic Asian cuisine, while Uno Mas is a traditional Argentinian grill with its own wine cellar. Fresh seafood and prime meats can be savoured at Sands, the casual beach club, Waves Pool Bar and Zing promise refreshing drinks and light bites, and Sheesh is a chic rooftop shisha lounge and Lebanese restaurant. Finally, meeting planners can host one-of-a-kind events in a choice of indoor and alfresco function spaces.

Like all Centara hotels and resorts worldwide, Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai adheres to the highest health and safety standards as part of the Centara Complete Care programme, which was developed in partnership with Ecolab and SGS.

“It gives me great pleasure to introduce Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai, our inaugural resort in the UAE, as we continue to bring our timeless values of Thai hospitality to travellers around the world. The Centara Mirage concept immerses visitors in a world of wonders, creating unparalleled guest experiences. This marks another major milestone for Centara in 2021, following the opening of Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne in Vietnam and Centara Reserve Samui, the world’s first Centara Reserve resort in Thailand,” commented Thirayuth Chirathivat, Chief Executive Officer, Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Omar Khoory, Chief Assets Officer at Nakheel, said: “Our joint venture with Centara Hotels & Resorts is a shining example of our commitment to partnering with reputable, international hotel brands to bring new tourism concepts to Dubai in line with the government’s tourism vision. We are delighted that one of Thailand’s biggest, most popular hotel operators has chosen to invest in Dubai and help us create another unique offering at Deira Islands.”

“We are delighted to welcome the world to Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai, a fully immersive oasis that will excite visitors of all ages with its enchanting Thai and Arabian theme. Dubai is a world-class tourist destination with many iconic attractions. With our fantastic leisure facilities, including our beautiful beach and wonderful water park, this spectacular new resort is set to become a favoured destination for families and exceptional events,” said Sebastien Scheeg, General Manager, Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai.

Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai becomes the first Centara property in the United Arab Emirates and represents the third Mirage family-themed resort worldwide, following the Lost World-themed Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, one of Thailand’s most popular family resorts, and the Explorer’s Playground-themed Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne, Vietnam, which opened its doors this year. This remarkable new resort also represents Centara’s debut in Dubai, one of the world’s most iconic cities.

To celebrate its launch, Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai has created an opening offer with rates starting from just AED 499++ per night, including daily breakfast. Up to two children stay and dine for free when ordering from the kids’ menu.

Deira Island is a new coastal city that is transforming Dubai’s Deira district into a world-class hub for tourism, retail and entertainment. Located at Dubai’s oldest and most traditional trading hub, Deira Islands has added 40 kilometres, including 21 kms of beachfront, to Dubai’s coastline.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Europe Travel and Tourism Sector Lags Global Recovery

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Europe Travel and Tourism Sector Lags Global Recovery - TRAVELINDEXLondon, United Kingdom, October 27, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Latest research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) shows Europe’s Travel & Tourism sector’s year on year recovery may only achieve a growth of 23.9% this year. European Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP to grow by less than a quarter this year. Sector employment remains stagnant in 2021, however, with the right measures, the number of those employed in the sector next year could surpass pre-pandemic levels. With millions more European citizens fully vaccinated, international spending is expected to rebound by nearly 80%% in 2022.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

The data from WTTC says this slow recovery is due to travel restrictions throughout the year, particularly in the first half, which continued to hinder the sector’s recovery.

Before the pandemic struck, Europe’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP represented €1.92 trillion (9.5% of the total economy).

However, according to the research, and based on the current rate of recovery, the sector’s contribution to GDP could see an increase of less than a quarter (23.9%) in 2021, falling behind the expected growth of the global sector of 30.7%.

The data also reveals that in 2022 Travel & Tourism’s contribution to the European economy could see a further year on year rise of 38%, representing an increase of €439 billion.

Although far from pre-pandemic levels, the growth of the sector has seen a slight rise due to the successful vaccination rollout, and intra-European mobility, supported by the EU Digital COVID Certificate, which was launched in early July this year. But with borders closed internationally Europe has struggled to recover.

The global tourism body says whilst the surge in domestic travel has provided some relief, it is not enough to achieve the full recovery the region needs in order to salvage Europe’s economy and millions of jobs.

The research goes on to show that while domestic spending is set to rise 30.2% year on year in 2021, international spending is expected to see a smaller increase of just 19.3% this year, reaching €242 billion, well below pre-pandemic levels, of €560 billion in 2019.

Next year, domestic spending is set to rise 27.7%. However, with relaxed restrictions in many European countries and with millions more European citizens fully vaccinated, international spending is expected to rebound 77.2% year on year.

In 2019, the European Travel & Tourism sector supported more than 38 million jobs. After suffering a loss of 3.6 million jobs last year when the pandemic brought international travel to an almost complete standstill, employment growth is set to remain stagnant this year.

However, WTTC’s research reveals an expected 15.7% rise in jobs in 2022, increasing by 5.5 million jobs to reach pre-pandemic levels.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said: “Our research shows that while the European Travel & Tourism sector is slowly beginning to recover, there is still a long way to go.

“With many European countries’ borders now open to international travel for fully vaccinated travellers, the region’s economic recovery will be accelerated next year. This could restore millions of jobs and livelihoods which rely on a thriving Travel & Tourism sector.

“We need governments to replace the patchwork of restrictions with a set of harmonised rules for travel.”

According to the research conducted by Oxford Economics on behalf of WTTC, the sector’s contribution to the region’s GDP and the rise in jobs could be more positive this year and next, if five vital measures are met by governments worldwide.

These measures include allowing fully vaccinated travellers to move freely, irrespective of their origin or eventual destination.

Secondly, the implementation of digital solutions which enable all travellers to easily prove their COVID status (such as the EU’s Digital COVID Certificate), in turn speeding up the process at borders around the world.

Thirdly, for safe international travel to fully restart, governments must recognise for all vaccines authorised by WHO and fourthly, continued support of the COVAX/UNICEF initiative to ensure equitable distribution of vaccines around the world.

Finally, the continued implementation of enhanced health and safety protocols, which will underpin customer confidence.

If these five vital measures are followed before the end of 2021, research shows the impact on the economy and jobs across Europe could be considerable. Travel & Tourism’s contribution to GDP could rise by 28.8% (nearly €270 billion) by the end of this year, followed by a year on year increase of a further 40.3% (over €480 billion) in 2022.

International spending would also benefit from government action, and experience a growth of 26.3% this year, and a significant boost of 81.8% in 2022. The sector’s growth could also have a positive impact on employment, with a 4% increase in jobs in 2021. However, with the right measures to support Travel & Tourism, the number of those employed in the sector next year could surpass pre-pandemic levels with a year on year increase of 17.6%, reaching almost 43 million jobs.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

Earlier this week, WTTC also joined forces with a number of Travel & Tourism associations such as Airports Council International, the European Travel Commission, and Cruise Lines International Association, calling on EU governments to remove all ‘traffic light’ systems and move towards a traveller risk approach, instead of risk based on entire countries.

Together, WTTC and the associations believe this approach would further speed up the recovery of the Travel & Tourism sector.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO 24th General Assembly to Put Innovation and Education at Heart of Tourism’s Restart

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UNWTO 24th General Assembly to Put Innovation and Education at Heart of Tourism’s Restart

Madrid, Spain, October 26, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) will hold the 24th General Assembly in Madrid, Spain, from 30 November to 3 December 2021. The General Assembly is UNWTO’s main gathering and the platform for Member States to approve UNWTO’s programme of work and budget for the coming biennium (2022-2023).

The 2021 General Assembly will place a special emphasis on the importance of innovation, education and rural development, as well as tourism’s role in inclusive growth, the theme of World Tourism Day 2021. Additionally, delegates will be presented with the International Code for the Protection of Tourists, a landmark legal instrument designed to restore trust in international travel.

Other key items on the agenda for the General Assembly include proposed reforms to the UNWTO Affiliate Membership Legal Framework, the finals of the UNWTO Students’ League and appointment of the UNWTO Secretary-General for the period 2022-2025. The General Assembly will also see the winners of the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages competition named.

Alongside this, and in line with UNWTO’s heightened emphasis on digital communications and visual storytelling, winners of the 2021 UNWTO Tourism Video Competition, aimed at recognizing promotional videos of Member States and Affiliate Members that highlight the sector’s resilience and its contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will also be announced in Madrid.

Restarting tourism together

Following protocol, the Secretary-General will present his report to the General Assembly on the implementation of UNWTO’s Programme of Work, actions and new initiatives since it last met in 2019. The agenda includes the selection of the UNWTO Executive Council Members for 2022, the World Committee of Tourism Ethics, as well as choosing the location and dates of the next session of the General Assembly, with Egypt, Portugal and Uzbekistan all set to submit bids. The Kingdom of Morocco had been scheduled to host this year’s General Assembly but subsequently confirmed that changing public health considerations meant it was unable to do so. In accordance with the Statutes and the rules of the Organization, the 24th session will take place at its Headquarters in Madrid, Spain.

Members will also be provided with updates on the opening of Regional Offices, including a first Regional Office for the Middle East, to work alongside the UNWTO Secretariat in Madrid, Spain, and planned themes for World Tourism Day in both 2022 and 2023.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News