Global Travel News

GOOGLE GOES GREEN: Search tool flags carbon-conscious flights

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Searching for flights on Google just got “greener.” A new search feature rolled out last week tells eco-conscious users which flights have lower carbon emissions, giving them the ability to choose flights based on carbon emissions just as they would price or the number of layovers.

A basic search for flights will give an estimate of how many kilograms of carbon dioxide the flight will spew from start to finish. Users can prioritize their search by emissions, much like they can by price, if desired. Flights with emissions below the median get highlighted in green.

Google said the estimates are a combination of from the European Environmental Agency and flight-specific information it gets from airlines and other providers. That data could include an aircraft’s age, model and configuration, the speed and altitude it flies at and the distance between the flight’s origin and destination.

Some flights may not have estimates because of a lack of data on certain aircraft or other missing information, Google said. The company added that the estimates don’t yet take into account what direction the plane is heading — a potentially significant factor if flying into or with the jet stream, or whether or not the flight is using biofuels or other alternatives.

google flight tool

Using the new tool, the least polluting flights from the Washington, DC, area to Chicago are all United flights using Boeing 737s. The 128 kg. of carbon dioxide falls 21% below the median. An American Airlines flight on another Boeing 737 from San Francisco to New York with a stop in Dallas emits 535 kg. of carbon dioxide, 9% less than the median for that route.

Multiple stops can often result in an increase in emissions, but it’s not always the case. Non-stop flights aren’t always less polluting, particularly on longer routes. Google says that a more fuel-efficient plane can emit less on a multiple-stop journey than an older plane on a non-stop route.

Airplanes account for a small portion of emissions that cause climate change – about 2% to 3% – but their share has been growing rapidly and is expected to roughly triple by mid-century with the global growth in travel.

The new emissions tool follows Google’s introduction last month of a way for people to find “eco-certified” hotels. Also last week Google introduced technology that allows drivers to find more fuel-efficient routes on Google Maps and from Google’s Nest thermostat, upgrades that will help people find energy from the power grid during times of day when its sources are cleaner, such as from wind and solar.

The new features are part of a sustainability initiative highlighted be Google CEO Sundar Pichai.

“Climate change is no longer a distant threat – it’s increasingly local and personal,” Pichai wrote in a blog post. “We need urgent and meaningful solutions to address this pressing challenge,” he added, saying the company has committed to run its data centres and campuses on carbon-free energy by 2030.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

CALIFORNIA REPORT: Cruise return a San Francisco treat

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The Majestic Princess sailed into the port of San Francisco on Monday, the first cruise ship to dock in the San Francisco Bay Area since March 2020. The port of San Francisco, home to the Bay Area’s only passenger cruise terminal, expects to welcome 21 cruise ships through the remainder of the year, which is a welcome boost to the city’s economy as it emerges from the pandemic.

The cruise ship terminals are near some of the most famous landmarks in the city, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 and the Ferry Building. When the largest cruise ships dock, there can be over 6,000 passengers, crewmembers, and terminal workers who disembark and dine and shop in the area.

The Majestic Princess was sailing from Los Angeles on a weeklong California coast voyage that included an overnight stop in San Francisco.

Passengers were required to show they were vaccinated at least 14 days before embarking on the cruise and have proof of vaccination. They also needed a negative COVID-19 test taken within two days of their embarkation, according to a statement from Princess Cruises, a Carnival Corp. subsidiary that operates the vessel.

Cruises elsewhere in the US began returning to business in June following a lengthy hiatus that saw the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention repeatedly extended no-sail orders as the pandemic raged. Carnival, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean, the three largest cruise companies, collectively lost US$20 billion last year and another $4.5 billion in the first quarter of 2021, according to Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

Oil spill

Meanwhile, a Southern California beach that was closed more than a week ago because of a leak of crude oil from an undersea pipeline reopened on Monday, far sooner than many expected.

City and state beaches in Huntington Beach reopened after water quality tests revealed no detectable levels of oil associated toxins in the ocean water. Early Monday morning, surfers bobbed in the waves and people walked along the shoreline, some with dogs jumping and playing in the water.

Huntington Beach and nearby coastal communities have been reeling from the Oct. 2 spill that officials said sent at least about 95,000 litres of oil into the ocean. It was caused by a pipeline leak about 8 km off the coast. The cause is under investigation and officials said they believe the pipeline was likely damaged by a ship’s anchor several months to a year before it ruptured.

On Sunday, there was no smell of oil and the sand looked largely clear by the Huntington Beach pier, where workers combed the sand for tar.

Officials in the city of 200,000 people, dubbed Surf City USA, have been testing the water to ensure it’s safe for people to go back in the water and said they’ll continue the testing for at least two more weeks.

Before Monday, residents were allowed to walk on the sand in Huntington Beach but were prohibited from the shoreline and the water. Popular surfing and swimming spots in Newport Beach and Laguna Beach were also closed.

In Huntington Beach, shops selling everything from bikinis and stars-and-stripes boogie boards to sand toys and fishing gear took an economic hit during the closure. Marian Johnson, who owns “Let’s Go Fishing” on the pier, said sales have been halved since the spill.

Mike Ali, who owns the nearby shop Zack’s, said he had to close three of his four locations and reduce workers’ hours. People were still renting bikes and buying food at his one store that remained open, but he said business dropped 90% without surf lessons, event catering and beach bonfires.

“It could be a year to two years to get the tourism to come back,” Ali said, adding that a 1990 oil spill wound up diverting would-be visitors to beaches south and north of the city.

Since the spill, officials have reported 38 dead birds and nine dead fish, while 27 oiled birds have been recovered and are being treated.

On Sunday morning, only a handful of people played beach volleyball on Huntington Beach while a few others exersized or laid on the sand.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts Plans to Double Its Global Resort Portfolio Over the Next Five Years by Debuting in the World’s Most Glamorous Destinations

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Solidifying St. Regis Hotels & Resorts’ position as a leader in luxury, the iconic brand expects to expand its existing portfolio of 15 curated resorts with plans to debut eleven new enchanted escapes by 2025 in some of the world’s most coveted leisure destinations, including locales most desired by the next generation of luxury travelers within the Caribbean, North America, North Africa, Middle East and Asia Pacific. St. Regis has 49 open hotels and resorts today, with 29 hotels and resorts in its pipeline, representing expected growth of nearly 60 percent over the next five years in both urban and leisure destination.

“This is a pivotal moment for St. Regis as we expect to nearly double our existing resort portfolio by 2025. Our resorts offer a leisure experience inspired by the glamorous private retreats of St. Regis’ founding family, the Astors, and we cannot wait to bring the brand’s spirit of invention and cherished traditions to some of the world’s most beguiling destinations,” said George Fleck, Vice President and Global Brand Leader for St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “From Los Cabos to Sanya, and Marrakech to the Riviera Maya, we are thoughtfully expanding the brand while marking a commitment to providing extraordinary resort experiences in the places where we know global luminaries want to travel.”

These highly anticipated new resorts will introduce the brand’s visionary spirit, avant-garde style and bespoke service in some of the most dynamic and compelling markets across the globe. Expanding its footprint in Mexico, St. Regis is expected to debut The St. Regis Kanai Resort in 2022 and The St. Regis Los Cabos Resort in 2023. Located in the captivating Mayan Riviera, The St. Regis Kanai Resort will feature a sophisticated design that boasts breathtaking ocean views from every vantage point, with plans that call for 124 guest rooms and suites, as well as 32 exclusive villas with private pools. The striking St. Regis Los Cabos Resort will be located on 33 pristine acres in Quivira, Los Cabos, featuring 1,200 ft. of panoramic coastal views. The resort is expected to offer 120 rooms and 60 residences, as well as a spa, golf course, beach club and three distinctive dining experiences. In the Middle East, the brand plans to grow its presence in Qatar with the expected early 2022 opening of The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl, which will feature architecture influenced by the distinct Andalusian and Arabesque style and offer stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

With a continued focus on the Caribbean in the coming years, in 2024 St. Regis is expected to debut in Aruba with The St. Regis Aruba Palm Beach Resort, as well as in the Dominican Republic with the highly anticipated opening of The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort.

The brand also anticipates celebrating its entry into Oman in 2024 with The St. Regis Al Mouj Resort in Muscat, and in the same year, expects the debut of The St. Regis Sanya Haitang Bay Resort in Sanya, Hainan’s most southern tip, which is often referred to as the “Hawaii of the East”. Additionally, St. Regis is expected to open a property in Africa, with the debut of The St. Regis Marrakech Resort slated for 2025.

St. Regis’ existing resort portfolio touches all corners of the globe, ranging from Bal Harbour to Bora Bora and Aspen to Abu Dhabi. Most recently, in May 2021, The St. Regis Bermuda Resort opened its doors in the historic town of St. George’s. Just steps from the soft white sands of St. Catherine’s Beach, the resort boasts 120 elegant guestrooms including 29 exquisite suites and an ultra-luxury residential development offering two- and three-bedroom residences. Each guestroom is designed to bring the outdoors in, with custom furnishings, marble bathrooms and a private balcony with breathtaking ocean views. Guests are able to enjoy unparalleled leisure and wellness facilities, including the historic Five Forts Golf Course, St. Regis Spa and state of the art cuisine. The St. Regis Qingdao debuted in August 2021 and features 233 guest rooms designed to pay homage to the destination and welcomes guests to enjoy one of China’s most beautiful coastal cities. Travelers can experience winding cobbled streets and heritage German architecture, or they can relax at one of the beaches nestled against the Yellow Sea. Additionally, The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort in Puerto Rico recently reopened following a $60 million renovation inclusive of the resort’s 139 guestrooms and suites, seaside pool and esplanade, and the spa.

Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including expected hotel openings; brand debuts in certain markets; our growth pipeline and future expansion; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including those we identify below and other risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or Annual Report on Form 10-K. Risks that could affect forward-looking statements in this press release include the duration and scope of COVID-19, including the availability and distribution of effective vaccines or treatments; the pandemic’s short and longer-term impact on the demand for travel, transient and group business, and levels of consumer confidence; actions governments, businesses and individuals have taken or may take in response to the pandemic, including limiting, banning, or cautioning against travel and/or in-person gatherings or imposing occupancy or other restrictions on lodging or other facilities; the impact of the pandemic and actions taken in response to the pandemic on global and regional economies, travel, and economic activity, including the duration and magnitude of COVID-19’s impact on unemployment rates and consumer discretionary spending; the ability of our owners and franchisees to successfully navigate the impacts of the pandemic; the pace of recovery when the pandemic subsides and any dislocations in recovery as a result of resurgences of the pandemic; general economic uncertainty in key global markets and a worsening of global economic conditions or low levels of economic growth; the effects of steps we and our property owners and franchisees have taken and may continue to take to reduce operating costs and/or enhance certain health and cleanliness protocols at our hotels; the impacts of our employee furloughs and reduced work week schedules, our voluntary transition program and our other restructuring activities; competitive conditions in the lodging industry and in the labor market; relationships with customers and property owners; and the availability of capital to finance hotel growth and refurbishment. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About St. Regis Hotels & Resorts
Combining timeless glamour with a vanguard spirit, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, Inc., is committed to delivering exquisite experiences at nearly 50 luxury hotels and resorts in the best addresses around the world. Beginning with the debut of The St. Regis hotel in New York by John Jacob Astor IV at the dawn of the twentieth century, the brand has remained committed to an uncompromising level of bespoke and anticipatory service for all of its guests, delivered flawlessly by the signature St. Regis Butler Service. For more information and new openings, visit stregis.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. St. Regis 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

Marriott International and Howard University to Address Racial Equity in the Hospitality Industry

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Howard Hospitality Week

Today, Marriott International, Inc. and Howard University announced the inaugural Howard Hospitality Week, an event beginning October 25 that will bring together the Howard community and hospitality leaders to discuss the need for more diverse and equitable opportunities within the hospitality industry. Over the course of five days, students, members of the faculty and industry leaders will gather on Howard’s historic campus in Washington, D.C. to tackle key hospitality business, leadership and social impact issues. Howard Hospitality Week is an outgrowth of the work the University and The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation have begun to create the Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership housed within the University’s School of Business. The effort also aligns with Howard’s five-pillar Howard Forward strategic plan, which emphasizes initiatives that serve the community by working with corporate partners to maximize job creation and train a diverse workforce.

“Marriott International is proud to collaborate with Howard University to convene this week-long dialogue and series of educational seminars to drive necessary conversations around diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Anthony Capuano, Marriott International’s chief executive officer. “Howard Hospitality Week is one of the many ways we are challenging ourselves to remove barriers and improve access to career and entrepreneur opportunities at the highest levels. The development of the Marriott-Sorenson Center along with innovative events, like Howard Hospitality Week, are intended to build a pipeline of diverse leadership talent, which is a priority for Marriott and our industry.”

“We are very excited to welcome Marriott International to Howard University’s campus for this inaugural convening that will deepen Howard students’ knowledge of opportunities in the hospitality industry,” said Howard University President Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick. “From the beginning, our partnership with The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation and Marriott International has been about engaging Howard students in ways that will drive opportunity and impact in the hospitality sector. This event will serve to inspire and educate Howard students while giving them space to offer ideas and insights that will make a tremendous difference in the industry.”

Howard Hospitality Week
Howard Hospitality Week will include virtual and in-person access to a variety of on-campus events planned for students, including:

  • Case competition: Marriott will host a case competition for current undergraduate and graduate students campus-wide. Working in teams of four to address a unique business situation, the teams will develop their business cases and present to a panel of industry leaders. One team at the undergraduate and graduate level (for a total of eight students), will be awarded a full scholarship for the 2022-2023 academic year.
  • Educational sessions: Students will join key industry leaders, Marriott executives and Howard faculty for in-depth discussions around topics including shaking up what service means in the hospitality industry, learning how leaders navigate the industry and create ownership, and how hospitality can make a social impact. During one session, students will hear from members of the project design team leading efforts to prioritize advancing leaders of color within the hospitality industry through the development of the Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership.
  • LoveTravels summit: As a culmination of the week’s events, Marriott will host a LoveTravels summit on the Yard with a focus on how the hospitality industry can build leadership talent opportunities for Black students across the country. The centerpiece of the summit will be a fireside chat with key industry leaders, including Capuano, Marriott’s CEO, and Dr. Frederick, Howard’s president; the case competition winners will also be announced. The LoveTravels summit is named for Marriott’s advocacy of inclusion, equality, peace and human rights, key components of the company’s longstanding commitment to environmental, social and governance issues.

To participate virtually in the daily livestream of Howard Hospitality Week events, discussions and sessions, and to show your support for the student case competition, please visit MarriottHHW.com

“The inaugural Howard Hospitality Week will give students an opportunity to really understand what a career in hospitality leadership could mean for them and how they can achieve their goal of making a difference in the world through careers in this comprehensive industry,” said Howard University School of Business Dean Anthony Wilbon, Ph.D. “The Howard University School of Business is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to host this convening on our campus, and we know this will kickstart many of our students’ engagement with the Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership.”

Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership
Earlier this year, The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation, together with Howard University, announced the establishment of the Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership in honor of Arne Sorenson, president and CEO of Marriott International from 2012 until his passing at age 62 in February 2021. The center will build on Howard University’s powerful research history and create thought leadership that not only prepares students to be the workforce of the future, but also empowers them to be co-creators in what the future of hospitality leadership looks like. Featuring a best-in-class program that expands educational and professional opportunities for Howard students, the center is designed to create a pipeline of diverse leadership talent for the hospitality industry.

“Arne spent much of his tenure at Marriott focused on creating opportunities that brought real change to the composition of Marriott’s executive ranks,” said J. W. “Bill” Marriott, Jr., executive chairman and chairman of the board. “At Marriott and across our industry, we need to do more when it comes to diversity, equity and inclusion. The Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership is focused on fostering leadership excellence and driving greater inclusion at the most senior levels in the hospitality industry – what an appropriate way to remember Arne’s legacy.”

Marriott Bonvoy Gets Involved
Members of Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program, also have the opportunity to donate their points in support of the Arne M. Sorenson Hospitality Fund, established earlier this year at Howard University to support the critical programmatic and career development elements of the Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership. All Marriott Bonvoy point donations will be converted to cash and contributed to the fund. From October 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021, Marriott Bonvoy will be matching all member donations. Members can visit here to learn more.

About Howard University
Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private, research university that is comprised of 14 schools and colleges. Students pursue more than 140 programs of study leading to undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University operates with a commitment to Excellence in Truth and Service and has produced one Schwarzman Scholar, three Marshall Scholars, four Rhodes Scholars, 12 Truman Scholars, 25 Pickering Fellows and more than 165 Fulbright recipients. Howard also produces more on-campus African American Ph.D. recipients than any other university in the United States. For more information on Howard University, visit www.howard.edu.

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.

About LoveTravels
LoveTravels – the cornerstone of Marriott’s purpose-driven marketing efforts – is the embodiment of who we are, what we believe in, and how we connect with our guests, to make the world a better place. LoveTravels represents Marriott International’s advocacy of inclusion, equality, peace and human rights. It is a direct reflection of Marriott’s longstanding commitment to environmental, social and governmental issues. LoveTravels launched in 2014 to advocate for the values that make for a more inclusive and equitable community.

About The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation
The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation works to create access and expand opportunities for all by partnering with non-profit organizations committed to solving today’s challenges and improving the lives of others in service of sustaining vibrant and thriving communities. Founded in 1966, the Foundation invests to strengthen the vitality of the Washington, D.C. community and surrounding region, advance disease-specific therapeutics and mental health initiatives, and promote career preparedness, with a focus on the hospitality industry. The Foundation embraces collaborative relationships with its partners across industries and sectors to drive the greatest impact. Active engagement as a leader and collaborator in the community, both listening to the community’s voice and promoting their interests, is a long-held, valued practice of the Marriott family and the Foundation. To learn more about The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation, please visit www.marriottfoundation.org.

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ST. KITTS CALLING ALL CANADIANS

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St. Kitts and Nevis are eager to get back to business in Canada, a market the Caribbean islands were making great strides in in 2019 only to be interrupted by the pandemic, but now set to resume thanks to Air Canada flights beginning on Dec. 5, coupled with eased border measures that took effect late last week.

Tourism minister Lindsay Grant told Travel Industry Today (via Zoom) that the St. Kitts Tourism Authority had been part way through a five-year strategic plan to increase in its profile in Canada, a process that was “well on its way” – boosting its arrivals numbers from this country to close to 10,000 – until the global health crisis,

Indeed, such was the success that Air Canada had even planned to add a second weekly flight, says Grant.

Nearing two years later, the islands are still hoping to “move the trajectory upwards” and improving their standing in the Canadian market.

“We see the potential and we’re plugging away at that – so much so that we engaged a Canadian PR firm and we’re putting the emphasis in Canada, because what the Canadians like is what we have to offer,” says Grant.

By which he means “an uncrowded, quintessential Caribbean getaway with a distinct array of activities, astonishing natural beauty and warm, welcoming hospitality,” not to mention rich in food, music, and other cultural attributes.

Or, more specifically, says Grant, “the Caribbean as it used to be – but with all the amenities. Somewhere you can lay back and be enchanted…”

Boasting plenty of sun, sand, and sea – and all that goes along with that – the small islands are not lacking in attractions, including, in St. Kitts, the UNESCO recognized 500-year-old Brimstone Hill Fortress Park, rain-forested Mt. Liamuiga, and the Sugar Train, the Caribbean’s only scenic passenger railway, which recalls the former British island’s history as a top sugar producer.

Less than 10 minutes away by water taxi, sister island Nevis (part of the twin-island federation formally known as St. Christopher and Nevis), is known for its unspoilt coastline, botanic gardens, and historical significance as the birthplace of American founding father, Alexander Hamilton.

Grant says Canadians tend to visit both islands – “two for the price of one” – with Nevis considered the quieter of the two.

And while there is a mix of accommodation options – including the noteworthy Four Seasons Nevis, which has just completed a major renovation, and the Park Hyatt St. Christopher, as well as the Koi Resort St. Kitts (Hilton) and a dual Marriott property – there are many quaint boutique properties that offer a distinct flavour of the islands. That includes the Royal St. Kitts hotel, the former Jack Tar Village that was a favourite of Canadians. And there are no all-inclusives, Grant notes.

Celebrity Equinox arriving at St. Kitts

Cruising is also important to St. Kitts/Nevis with Grant explaining that many visitors “fall in love with the country” on a shore excursion and then return for a longer stay in the future.

This fall, Seabourn and Celebrity have returned to the island, with the arrival of the latter’s Equinox on Sept. 14 making big waves in the island.

“It reaffirmed our status as a marquee port… and really signals that we are on our way to recovery (from the pandemic) and provides some short-term confidence to the tourism industry and residents,” says Grant

Since 2014 the islands have more than doubled the number of cruise passengers, prompting Grant to note that authorities are cognizant of not succumbing to over-tourism. He notes that the nature of the islands enables visitors to quickly spread out and not overwhelm the port and capital Basseterre.

But whether by sea or air (the latter featuring a $300 p.p. seat sale on Air Canada Rouge flights when booked by Oct. 14), the tourism authority is committed to carrying full on in Canada to increase exposure and “re-introducing” Canadians to St. Kitts this winter, and beyond.

“You’re going to be seeing a lot more of us in Canada,” says Grant.

ENTRY PROTOCOLS

Travellers 18 and over must be fully vaccinated (under 18 exempted) and have a negative PCR test result produced within 72 hours of travel. Another test is necessary upon arrival at one’s “travel approved” hotel during a 24-hour quarantine period (reduced last week from four days) and upon a negative result from that test, visitors can “fully integrate” into island life.

In August, St. Kitts and Nevis announced that people with mixed vaccine two-dose regimens using World Health Organization (WHO) approved vaccines, will be considered fully vaccinated.

Specific to Canadians, the Ministry of Health said those “who received their first dose of an mRNA vaccine followed by a second dose of different brand of mRNA vaccine, as well as those who received a viral vector vaccine such as AstraZeneca/ COVISHIELD followed by an mRNA vaccine, will be considered Fully Vaccinated by The Federation.”

Visitors must also complete the online KNA travel form, which includes proof of vaccination and hotel bookings, for authorization before travel.

Full travel protocols and requirements are outlined HERE.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO and NEOM Launch Tourism Experiences of the Future Challenge

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UNWTO and NEOM Launch Tourism Experiences of the Future Challenge

Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, October 12, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and NEOM have partnered for a new initiative focused on the future of tourism in Saudi Arabia. The ‘Tourism Experiences of the Future’ challenge will source innovative ideas and disruptive business models related to the tourism needs of the future, in line with growing demand for new experiences.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Saudi Arabia, visit TourismSaudiArabia.com

All proposals must be aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and should include the introduction or adaptation of digital and technological elements, as well as being focused at least one of the following areas:

– Optimizing and maximizing the potential of experiential tourism
– Harnessing the positive impact of new technology
– Alternative business models
– Innovative experiences

The competition is the first national initiative dedicated to identifying new companies that will lead the tourism sector’s transformation in Saudi Arabia. As well as established businesses, the competition also welcomes applications from Saudi Arabian start-ups and innovators with ideas capable of revolutionizing and inspiring tourists by presenting new ways and reasons to travel.

Applications are open until 24 October, with great interest expected, and participants must be Saudi citizens with legal capacity to enter into a contract. Successful projects will be selected based on various criteria, such as the degree of innovation, their viability and sustainability.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Saudi Arabia, visit TourismSaudiArabia.com

An Affiliate Member of UNWTO since 2019, NEOM is an accelerator of human progress and a vision of what a new future might look like. Located in northwest Saudi Arabia along the Red Sea, NEOM is ideally situated at the crossroads of the world, comprising a total area of 26,500 km². A special authority has been established to oversee NEOM, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Six More Airlines Implement IATA Travel Pass

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Six More Airlines Implement IATA Travel Pass

Boston, Massachusetts, United States, October 12, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Etihad Airways, Jazeera Airways, Jetstar, Qantas, Qatar Airways and Royal Jordanian, will implement IATA Travel Pass in a phased rollout across the airlines’ networks. These five airlines join Emirates Airline as IATA Travel Pass implementation pioneers.

The announcement, made on the sidelines of the 77th IATA Annual General Meeting being held in Boston, follows eleven months of extensive testing by 76 airlines.

“After months of testing, IATA Travel Pass is now entering the operational phase. The app has proven itself to be an effective tool to manage the complex mess of travel health credentials that governments require. And it’s a great vote of confidence that some of the world’s best known airline brands will be making it available to their customers over the coming months,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

The app offers a safe and secure way for travelers to check the requirements for their journey, receive test results and scan their vaccine certificates, verify that these meet the destination and transit requirements and share these effortlessly with health officials and airlines prior to departure. This will avoid queuing and congestion for document checks—to the benefit of travelers, airlines, airports and governments.

IATA Travel Pass is a mobile app that can receive and verify a range of COVID-19 test results and digital vaccines certificates. Currently vaccine certificates from 52 countries (representing the source of 56% of global air travel) can be managed using the app. This will increase to 74 countries, representing 85% of global traffic, by the end of November.

IATA Travel Pass is expected to play a key role in the aviation industry’s recovery from the impact of COVID-19. A digitalized solution to manage the paperwork of COVID-19 travel health credentials will support a return to travel when borders reopen. With many governments relying on airlines for COVID-19 document checking this will be critical in avoiding queues and congestion at check-in as travel ramps up.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Catch the Ultimate Break and Discover Bali’s Hottest Surfing Spots

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Catch the Ultimate Break and Discover Bali’s Hottest Surfing Spots

Bali, Indonesia, October 12, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / You know a surfing spot is hot when eleven-time world championship surfer Kelly Slater makes a trek mid-pandemic in search of the perfect wave. In December 2020 he did just that at Uluwatu on the southwestern tip of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula. The beaches around Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort boast some of the greatest waves in the world and the resort is offering the Ultimate Surf Break Package for surfer’s keen to get back riding Bali’s famous barrels.

The package for two people includes accommodation and breakfast, a private yoga session, a one-hour signature Anantara massage, a three-course dinner and a half day surfing session including transfers and insurance at one of the areas famous beaches. If unsure about which beach to choose, the resort has come up with six of the best:

Impossible Beach
Perched atop the dramatic cliff, Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort’s contemporary luxury reveals sensational ocean views of the world-renowned Impossible Beach right in front of the resort. This beach is one of the most famous surf points in Bali where surfers can descend through the resort’s beach elevator to the beautiful rocky beach. From there, it’s only 300 metres to paddle out from the aptly named beach to the break that is suitable for surfing pro’s all year round.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Bali, It’s Happening in Bali, go to VisitBali.org

Padang Padang Beach
If the name Padang Padang Beach doesn’t sound familiar just think of ‘Eat, Pray, Love’, as the beach is based-on Elizabeth Gilbert’s best-selling memoir and is the setting for the 2010 movie of the same name starring Julia Roberts. This beach is a stunning stretch of sand that is only accessible by a staircase through a hollow cave entrance. Padang Padang is a bucket listed notch on the belt for all experienced surfers looking for one of the best lefts in the world.

Bingin Beach
One of the island’s hidden gems for wave riding, Bingin Beach is a paradise for surfers. Swells of up to 2.5 metres break over the submerged reef giving strong left-handers to surfers. While getting to the beach is a difficult walk over rocks, it’s well worth the effort with the stunning beachscape and challenging barrels.

Nusa Dua Beach
Famous for Bali’s big wave surf break, the ocean reef at Nusa Dua stretches around the coastline for over two kilometres. It has the most consistent right-hand reef breaks on the island. Depending on the conditions and tides, the breaks tend to vary but on the right day surfers can enjoy the ultimate surfing experience.

Dreamland and Balangan Beaches
Dreamland and Balangan Beaches are only a kilometre apart and separated by a small headland. Both are a mix of soft white sand and rockpools. For pros, the best time to surf is between May and September when south-westerly winds create swells ranging from 1 metre to over 3 metres, which can roll on for a good 500 metres. Both beaches are also great for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Green Bowl Beach
Green Bowl is one of Bali’s untouched beaches often overlooked in favor of other more famous surfing spots. It’s a steep descent down hundreds of steps attracting surfers who favour uncrowded waves and punchy right-handers. Most surfers recommend early morning sessions as the wind picks up throughout the day.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Bali, It’s Happening in Bali, go to VisitBali.org

About Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas
Anantara is a luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, connecting them to genuine places, people and stories through personal experiences, and providing heartfelt hospitality in the world’s most exciting destinations. The collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provides a window through which to journey into invigorating new territory, curating personal travel experiences.

From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travellers to the indigenous, grounds them in authentic luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. The portfolio currently boasts over 40 stunning properties located in Thailand, the Maldives, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, Zambia, the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Tunisia, Portugal and Spain, with a pipeline of future properties across Europe, Asia, the Indian Ocean, Middle East and Africa.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP:Oct. 4-8, 2021

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In this week’s round-up: Canada mandates a full vaccination requirement for travellers; a ‘historic moment’ in the fight against malaria; Porter is back in business and Air Transat returns to Cuba.

NEWS

New measures introduced by the federal government will require all travellers in Canada, along with air travel and rail employees, to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Oct. 29. Cruise companies will also be required to implement mandatory vaccines for employees and travellers in time for the 2022 season.

Calling it a “historic moment” in the battle against the spread of a parasitic disease that afflicts more 229 million people annually, killing over 400,000, the World Health Organization has approved the world’s first vaccine for malaria.

Foreign tourists won’t be welcomed back to Australia until at least next year as the country instead prioritizes the return of skilled migrants and students after reaching vaccination of 80% of the population aged 16 and older. Australia has had some of the toughest and longest COVID-19 travel restrictions imposed by any democracy during the pandemic.

The Travel Industry Council of Ontario’s (TICO) approved 45 claims against the Compensation Fund totalling $125,321.39 to assist 97 consumers who did not receive the travel services for which they had paid. The claims included Albarkah Travel and Tours Inc., 32 claims to assist 77 consumers, totalling $105,101.99; Fly Jamaica Airways, two claims to assist four consumers, totalling $1,924.99; and Jet Airways, 11 claims to assist 16 consumers, totalling $18,294.41.

RE-OPENING/RE-START

On Oct. 3, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed the resumption of Air Canada service from Toronto.

An international ferry service that links Canada with the United States is set to resume next year after being cancelled three years in a row. An update on the Bay Ferries Ltd. website says its high-speed catamaran ferry service between Yarmouth, NS, and Bar Harbor, Maine – known as “The Cat” – is expected to start in the spring of 2022.

BY THE NUMBERS

What’s a few billion here and there? IATA forecasts that net airline industry losses are expected to reduce to US$11.6 billion in 2022 after a $51.8 billion loss in 2021 (worsened from the $47.7 billion loss estimated in April). Meanwhile, net 2020 loss estimates have been revised to $137.7 billion (from $126.4 billion). Adding these up, total industry losses in 2020-2022 are expected to reach $201 billion.

AIR

Air Transat Flight TS898 arriving in Holguin, Oct. 1

After several months of forced suspension due to the COVID-19, Air Transat has resumed service to Cuba, with service from Toronto and Montreal to Holguin. Other destinations will resume progressively through the winter from Toronto, Montreal, Quebec, Moncton, and Halifax.

On Oct. 6, Porter Airlines reportedly that it had officially returned to all 18 of its year-round destinations today, with the addition of Fredericton, Saint John, NB, Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, Timmins, and Windsor.

Air Canada will launch a new service between Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and Ottawa beginning Oct. 31. The route will start with four return trips daily, increasing to up to eight return trips daily starting in summer 2022. Air Canada presently operates five return flights daily between Toronto Island and Montreal.

Starting next spring, WestJet will introduce new flights between Toronto and Dublin. The new non-stop seasonal flights are set to operate four-times weekly, beginning on May 15, 2022, and will increase to daily by June 2, 2022.

DEALS

The “Keep Palm and Travel On” promo from Air Transat invites travellers to take advantage of specially priced South packages starting at $899. Bookings must be made by Oct. 25 for travel Dec. 17-April 30, 2022. Details on the web site or at Agent Direct.

Throughout October, Canadians who book seven nights or longer at any Sandals or Beaches resort will receive a variety of instant savings (redeemable from tour operators) ranging from $300 to $600 per room. The offers include:

• $300 per room off on all Sandals or Beaches bookings (excluding Sandals Grenada and Beaches Turks and Caicos) for travel through 2022

• $500 per room booked at Sandals Grenada or Beaches Turks and Caicos for travel through 2022

• $400 per room booked at all Sandals Resorts for travel between Aug. 1 and Sept. 30, 2022

• $600 per room booked at all Beaches Resorts for travel Sept. 1-30, 2022.

TOURS

Reflecting an increased interest in Europe from Canadians, G Adventures has launched a new tour featuring Christmas markets in Germany and Austria. The week-long “Christmas in Central Europe – Berlin to Vienna” tour includes the Hellbrunner Christmas Market in Salzburg, home to more than 700 beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and Germany’s Nuremberg market, which is celebrated as one of the oldest markets in the world. Four departures will run from late November to the end of December, with an additional stop in Munich. Tour participants must be fully vaccinated.

Intrepid’s new mandatory vaccination policy for all travellers and tour leaders took effect Sept. 1 and the adventure travel company has also launched a global vaccine equity campaign that focuses on improving COVID-19 vaccine access and education and offering donations to support global equitable access to vaccines. Intrepid has mobilized 23 operational offices across five continents to offer logistical support, transportation resources, training, and education. In Cusco, Peru, for example, Intrepid began offering free transportation to a vaccination hub for trekking porters and their families and also hosted an information and QandA session with a member of the WHO’s technical advisory committee to help educate tour guides about COVID-19 vaccines.

HOTELS

Sunwing reports that 20 of its Blue Diamond Resorts properties have now been fully integrated into Marriott International’s Autograph Collection. The move follows the news earlier this year that the company’s hotel division had signed a mutual partnership agreement with the hotel giant. The 20 participating Blue Diamond Resorts, now including Royalton Grenada, are the first all-inclusive properties to join the Marriott brand, a curated collection of independent properties with distinct perspectives on design and hospitality. The resorts will continue to be independently owned and operated by Blue Diamond Resorts under the Autograph Collection name

The High West Distillery and The Lodge at Blue Sky in Park City, Utah, have teamed up to offer a unique whiskey spa treatment. The Edge Spa at The Lodge at Blue Sky offers a 90-minute ‘High West Whiskey Rubdown,’ channeling the Old West with a whiskey, salt and sage foot soak paired with an herbal-infused whiskey elixir, followed by a massage, foot scrub and scalp invigorator.

RESORTS

St. Somewhere

Bookings for Margaritaville St. Somewhere Punta Coco, Holbox Island by Karisma are now live. The Mexican property, located on Isla Holbox, a budding yet remote island northwest of Cancun, is set to debut later this fall and will be the first in Margaritaville’s new boutique hotel collection, St. Somewhere. With 39 suites and an intimate open-air concept, the resort is nestled over mangrove gardens, and will feature winding wooden bridges elevated two metres above the ground offering scenic views of the destination’s lush flora and over 900 m. of pristine beach. Pre-opening rates start at $495 per night and can be booked through Dec. 31 for reservations through June 30, 2022

CRUISE

Carnival Cruise Line has announced plans for more ship restarts for January and February as it works towards the return of its full fleet sailing from US homeports in the spring of 2022. With 17 ships scheduled to be operating by year-end, Carnival Sunshine will restart from Charleston, SC, on Jan. 13, and Carnival Liberty from Port Canaveral, Fla., on Feb. 11.

Disney Cruise Line has completed a roster of new and reimagined experiences for guests sailing on the Disney Wish next summer. Among the highlights: A high-tech starship on a mission to assist the Resistance, a nautical playground where little cadets train with “the most magical captains at sea,” and a hip hangout for teens and tweens with an ultra-exclusive VIP list. The Wish will sail its maiden voyage on June 9, followed by a season of three- and four-night cruises to Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, from Port Canaveral, Fla.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Patrick Bui has been named Chief Financial Officer of Transat AT effective Nov. 15. Bui was most recently CEO of Kruger Energy, a renewable-energy producer with operations throughout the Americas.

Transat has also announced the appointments of Cole Keitamo and Marie-Eve Charbonneau to group sales managers. Keitamo is responsible for Ontario, Atlantic, and Western Canada; he has over 20 years of experience in various roles at Transat, including group sales manager in Western Canada since March 2017. Charbonneau has been promoted to group sales manager, Quebec, and Ottawa. She joined Transat in 2003 and has held several positions over the years, including various supervisor roles within the group department. They can be reached via email respectively at cole.keitamo@transat.com and marieeve.charbonneau@transat.com.

Red Label Vacations Inc. (RLV) has announced Rod Hanna as the new Director of Branding, Independent Program, and Related Projects. Hanna brings a wealth of Canadian travel industry experience, most recently as director of sales Canada for the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority. He has also held various roles within the Sunwing Travel Group, and previously worked with Selloffvacations.com.

DESTINATIONS

The annual Jasper Dark Sky Festival returns Oct. 15 to 24, 2021 giving star-gazing guests of all ages the opportunity to power down and look up in the world’s largest accessible Dark Sky Preserve. The annual event helps raise public awareness about light pollution while building a deeper connection to the universe and beyond and features an extensive line-up of activities and guest speakers. Click HERE for full details.

The largest Krispy Kreme store in the world, the Times Square Flagship location, is now open in New York. Doughnut patrons can watch the doughnut creation process, browse themed merchandise, and stop by the street-side pickup window that is open 24/7, for hot glazed donuts.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sabre and Emirates Sign New Distribution Agreement

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Sabre and Emirates Sign New Distribution Agreement - TRAVELINDEXDubai, United Arab Emirates, October 11, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Sabre Corporation, the leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, and Emirates, one of the world’s largest international airlines, have signed a new multi-year, worldwide distribution agreement.

The new agreement will provide Sabre-connected travel buyers and agencies with access to Emirates’ content, through Sabre’s global distribution system (GDS), with immediate effect. Further to this, Emirates will create and distribute NDC offers through the Sabre GDS.

“We are delighted to reestablish our long-standing partnership with Emirates,” said Roshan Mendis, Chief Commercial Officer, Sabre Travel Solutions. “The agreement demonstrates our commitment to creating a sustainable distribution model that benefits all constituents across the travel value chain. Resulting from thoughtful discussions between both parties, our new agreement will provide both Emirates and travel buyers with immense value, removing complexity in the buying process, which is crucial to the recovery of the industry.”

The new contract will connect Emirates to a global network of travelers, while supporting its global vision to provide travel buyers and travelers with personalized offers.

“We are pleased to have reached this distribution agreement with Sabre,” said Adnan Kazim, Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates. “The new contract will support us to meet the needs of our agency partners. Providing agencies with flexibility, choice and efficiency will help them to thrive in the current climate and will help us drive revenue and growth.”

In addition to the new agreement, Sabre will continue to partner with Emirates on advanced retailing, data and analytics capabilities through a number of its industry-leading solutions in areas such as network planning, revenue optimization and market intelligence.

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 Emirates
Emirates is the award-winning airline renowned for its industry-leading services in the air and on the ground. It is the world’s largest operator of the popular Boeing 777 and iconic Airbus A380 aircraft, both modern and efficient widebody aircraft types which offer the latest onboard comforts. Emirates’ global network connects over 120 cities on six continents to, and through, its hub in Dubai. The airline also contributes to vibrant communities as a prominent sponsor of sports and cultural events around the world.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News