Global Travel News

Best Western Asia Unveils 11.11 Sale with 11 Full Days of 50% Discounts

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Best Western Asia Unveils 11.11 Sale with 11 Full Days of 50% Discounts - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, November 7, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Best Western Hotels and Resorts will wow travel lovers once again this month with the launch of its 11.11 Sale, which offers 11 full days of fantastic discounts with up to 50% off at hotels and resorts in many exciting destinations all across Asia.

Available to book from 9 to 19 November 2021, for stays through 31 March 2022, this enticing promotion ensures the lowest available rates, starting from less than USD 30 per night! So, whether you’re craving a blissful beachfront break, a chic city staycation or an energizing out-of-town escape, Best Western Hotels & Resorts can provide the perfect deal for your next getaway.

Amazing rates of under USD 30 per night can be booked at a wide range of world-class midscale hotels in many highly desirable Asian locations, such as Best Western Plus Wanda Grand Hotel in bustling Bangkok, Best Western Patong Beach in beautiful Phuket, and Best Western Kuta Villa in blissful Bali. Whichever property you choose, every booking will include complimentary Wi-Fi, creating seamless, stress-free escapes.

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Sukhumvit 2 promises stylish stays in the heart of Bangkok, while SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western AC Luxe in Angeles City will keep you fully connected in the Philippines. These two contemporary hotels are both offering rates of under USD 50 per night in the 11.11 Sale, and offer personalized service, exceptional amenities and the warm welcome you expect from SureStay Plus®.

If you’re seeking a refined travel experience, Best Western Premier® invites you to enjoy “The Premier Life” in some of Asia’s most extraordinary destinations. Highlights include Best Western Premier Sapphire Ha Long, the brand-new waterfront hotel overlooking the stunning seascape of Ha Long Bay, Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort & Spa on Phuket’s golden coast, and Best Western Premier Panbil, a spectacular landmark in the heart of Batam.

Wherever you choose to travel, Best Western ensures the highest standards of health and hygiene with our “We Care CleanSM” program, which is based on expert advice from governmental agencies and independent bodies. This comprehensive program addresses every aspect of the in-stay experience, from guest room and common area cleanliness to contactless procedures and more, while maintaining our industry-leading guest service.

Be sure to check out the 11.11 Sale from Best Western Hotels & Resorts! This unmissable promotion is available for bookings made from 9 to 19 November 2021 only, for stays taken through 31 March 2022.

About Best Western Hotels and Resorts
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand within the BWH Hotel Group® global network. With 18 brands and approximately 4,500 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. Brands include Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Vīb®, GLō®, Aiden®, Sadie®, BW Premier Collection® and BW Signature Collection®. Through acquisition, WorldHotelsTM Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Distinctive and WorldHotels Crafted collections are also offered. Completing the portfolio is SureStay®, SureStay Plus®, SureStay Collection® and SureStay Studio® franchises**.

* Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.
**All Best Western, WorldHotels and SureStay branded hotels are independently owned and operate.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Unites with Tourism Organizations in Tackling Global Climate Crisis

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WTTC Unites with Tourism Organizations in Tackling Global Climate Crisis

London, United Kingdom, November 8, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which represents the global Travel & Tourism private sector, has joined forces with governments, Travel & Tourism organizations and businesses around the world in support of the Glasgow Declaration, a global initiative to tackle climate crisis.

The Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism is a call for all stakeholders to show leadership and drive action to address climate change.

While collectively, the Travel & Tourism sector supports the aspirations expressed in the declaration, industries within the sector face different challenges, and timelines to reach these goals may vary.

We support each of our member companies in their individual pathways to ultimately achieving the reductions in emissions that will help protect life on our planet.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We are delighted to add WTTC to the list of supporters of the Glasgow Declaration.

“WTTC will support its members to achieve their individual climate initiatives over time and set up individual climate action plans.

“This is the time to show leadership and unity and the Declaration is an opportunity to come together towards these common ambitions.”

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sabre Retail Intelligence Enables Airlines to Grow Through Personalized Retailing

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Sabre Retail Intelligence Enables Airlines to Grow Through Personalized Retailing

Southlake, Texas, United States, November 8, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Sabre Corporation, the leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, today announced the release of the first two products in the company’s Retail Intelligence suite: Sabre Air Price IQ™ and Sabre Ancillary IQ™ for the dynamic pricing of airfare and ancillaries, respectively.

Sabre Retail Intelligence is an innovative product suite that enables airlines to deliver a more personalized travel offers in both traditional and NDC channels. Powered by Sabre Travel AI™ – an innovative capability that integrates Sabre technology with Google Cloud’s state-of-the-art AI technology and advanced machine-learning services – Retail Intelligence will allow airlines to dynamically provide offers to travelers based on preferences, marketplace insights and purchase probability, creating a more personalized and better traveler experience.

“We are facing a rapidly changing world and the travel ecosystem looks very different than it did just 18 months ago,” said Wade Jones, chief product officer, Sabre Travel Solutions. “Traveler expectations for relevant and personalized offers are growing, and airlines are more focused than ever on becoming sophisticated retailers. Relying on traditional strategies based on historical data patterns isn’t enough – airlines need intelligent solutions driven by artificial intelligence and machine learning. This is what we are offering with Sabre’s Retail Intelligence suite of products.”

Sabre Air Price IQ increases airlines’ pricing agility and precision by allowing airlines to adapt quickly to changing marketplace conditions. Considering traveler segment and trip intent from the shopping request, the product supports an airline’s efforts to maximize revenue opportunities while providing a seamless experience to travelers.

Sabre Ancillary IQ uses machine learning to present ancillary offers based on multiple factors, including real-time shopping data and purchase probability to increase incremental revenue opportunities and traveler satisfaction. As a result, airlines can deliver increased value and more choice to their travelers.

Both products can help airlines increase revenue opportunity by adapting quickly to changing marketplace conditions while enhancing customer satisfaction by offering travelers the personalized offers that are just right for them. The products are expected to deliver airlines an uplift in incremental revenue of up to three percent when combined with upcoming products being added to the Retail Intelligence suite in 2022.[1]

“As travel retailing becomes more complex to meet increasingly sophisticated consumer expectations, the rules-based technology in use across the industry today will no longer deliver satisfactory results,” said Sundar Narasimhan, president, Sabre Labs and Product Strategy. “To truly modernize travel retailing, the industry requires intelligent systems that allow for continuous learning and scaling at speed. At Sabre, we are focused on equipping our customers with those AI-based solutions that will modernize the way we shop, book and experience travel, delivering incremental value for our customers and the travelers they serve.”

Sabre’s strategic partnership with Google established the Sabre + Google Innovation Framework, pairing Sabre’s travel industry experience with Google Cloud’s advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities, creating Sabre Travel AI. Utilizing this industry-first capability, Sabre will enable its current products with advanced machine-learning and artificial intelligence to power the retailing experience of the future in travel. The two companies are working to co-develop innovative new technology to bring customers modern, data-driven, omni-channel solutions that enable highly personalized traveler experiences.

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 traveller 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.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP:Nov. 1-5, 2021

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A tax credit for Ontario staycations; more Canadian airports have been given the green light for foreign flights; it’s time to vax up on VIA; and Canadians return to Grenada highlight this week’s round up of last week.

NEWS

Ontario’s government is proposing a new temporary Ontario Staycation Tax Credit for 2022. This new Personal Income Tax credit would provide eligible Ontario residents with support of 20% on eligible 2022 accommodation expenses in Ontario of up to $1,000 for an individual or $2,000 for a family. In total, the credit is expected to provide support of an estimated $270 million in 2022 to about 1.85 million Ontario families. The credit would provide up to a maximum of $200 for an individual and $400 for a family.

The federal government has green-lighted eight more regional airports to accept international flights effective Nov. 30. The move ends an eight-month ban for the facilities in Victoria, Abbottsford and Kelowna, BC; Saskatoon and Regina, Sask.; Waterloo and Hamilton, Ont.; and St. John’s, Nfld., which join 10 other airports already open to traffic from abroad.

Mandatory vaccination is now in effect at VIA Rail in line with the Transport Canada regulations. Effective Oct. 30, the policy requires everyone 12 years of age and older onboard trains to show proof of vaccination; however, to allow passengers time to become fully vaccinated, there will be a one-month transition period, ending Nov. 30, during which passengers will be able to travel if they show a valid COVID-19 molecular test within 72 hours of travel time.

RE-OPENING/RE-START

A busy week for border re-openings saw Australia, Thailand, and Israel open or re-open their borders in some fashion. Later this month, India, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia intend to follow suit.

Swoop resumed international flight operations at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport on Nov. 1 with the departure of flight WO 728 bound for Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, followed by the return of non-stop flights to Puerto Vallarta on Nov. 4. Next up, new destinations Cancun on Dec. 3, and Orlando (Sanford) on Dec. 11. From Toronto, Swoop swooped down to St. Petersburg-Clearwater on Nov. 5.

Grenada Tourism Authority, CEO, Petra Roach (c) with Captain John Petropoulos, third from left, and Air Canada flight crew.

Grenada welcomed the return of air service from Canada for the first time in a year on Oct. 31, with Air Canada flight 1066 touching down on the Spice Island with 169 passengers. To stimulate demand for the twice weekly flights from Toronto (Sundays, Wednesdays), the Grenada Tourism Authority has embarked on a marketing campaign employing traditional, digital, and social media tactics in the Canadian market with Air Canada and TravelBrands/Red Tag. Travel agents who book vacations to Grenada will receive five times the regular loyalty points during the campaign. In 2019, Grenada welcomed a total of 17,911 Canadians.

AIR

WestJet launched its newest route connecting passengers for the first time between Calgary and Seattle on Nov. 4.

Air Transat has reached an offtake agreement for 90% of the sustainable e-fuel produced by SAF+ in its first plant over the first 15 years of operation. The agreement, which also includes support for the project’s development, confirms Air Transat’s desire to reduce its environmental footprint and continue its actions to combat climate change by becoming the first airline in Canada to reserve a significant volume of e-fuel over a long period of time, says the airline.

Ultra low-cost carrier Flair Airlines will boost its 2022 schedule with the addition of twice weekly non-stop service between Winnipeg and Regina as well as Winnipeg and Saskatoon. Twice-weekly service begins April 14 and 16 respectively.

BY THE NUMBERS

Air Canada reported a loss of $640 million in its latest quarter, however its operating revenue still nearly tripled compared with a year ago. Revenue totalled $2.10 billion, up from $757 million in the same quarter last year. The airline increased its capacity in the quarter as measured by available seat miles by 87% compared with the third quarter of 2020, however it was still down 66% when compared with the third quarter of 2019. In its outlook, Air Canada says it plans to increase its fourth-quarter capacity by about 135% compared with the same quarter in 2020, however, but still down 47% from 2019.

DEALS

Australian adventure travel company Aurora Expeditions will be resuming operations in Antarctica in 2022 with voyages commencing from Punta Arenas, Chile, in January. Re-introductory incentives include no single supplements on cabins on select Antarctic Expeditions between January-March as well as 15% off all voyages during the same time period.

Through Nov. 30, Celeystal Cruises, which sails in the Greek Islands and Eastern Med is offering cruises starting at US$379 (representing up to 40% off) on select 2022 all-inclusive cruises. Children also sail for free and there is no single supplement for solo travellers. Reduced rates are also available for third and fourth adult guests. Mandatory vaccination policy is in effect.

TOURS

Starting Dec. 16, Air Canada Vacations will introduce a twice-weekly non-stop route from Toronto to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The country’s capital and cultural core is the oldest city in the Caribbean and ACV offers eight different hotel options, plus seven-night city and beach combos.

Goway is celebrating Dubai Expo 2020 by offering free stopovers to Dubai on vacations for travellers connecting on to destinations in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Goway’s free stopovers to Dubai include two nights in Dubai as well as a pass to the Dubai Expo, which is running through March 31, 2022. In partnership with Dubai Tourism, Goway is also offering competitive pricing on vacations to Dubai, which includes multi-day passes to the Expo, as well as trips up the Burj Khalifa, shopping experiences, and desert safaris. Goway notes that it also offers a popular “Explore Dubai Women’s Tour” for female travellers.

HOTELS

The 27-floor, 456-room Daytona Grande, a new oceanfront luxury resort, opened a number of rooms this summer with a full opening planned for later this year. The property is located at 422 North Atlantic Ave in Daytona Beach just north of the Ocean Center convention complex. Meanwhile, the oceanfront 12-story Max Beach Resort is scheduled to open in early 2022 with condo-style residential suites featuring one-, two-, and three-bedroom options, fully equipped kitchens and private outdoor living spaces. Located just south of the Boardwalk and Pier area, the property plans to combine the best that a vacation rental has to offer with the amenities of a high-end resort hotel including a beachfront café and bar, and top floor sky lounge.

Opening in preview on Nov. 9, The Reykjavik EDITION promises the first truly luxury hotel experience in the Icelandic capital. Designed as a vibrant and sophisticated urban hub, the 253-room hotel offers a comprehensive line-up of bars, restaurant, nightclub, and a modern social wellness concept that channels the country’s signature hot springs, mineral waters, and natural fjords.

RESORTS
In a sign of the times, Palm Island Resort in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has purchased its own PCR testing machine in an effort to alleviate the current 48-hour quarantine that the St. Vincent government has placed on travellers, as well as to facilitate exit screenings. The resort says that due to limited resources in SVG, local hoteliers are taking COVID safety precautions into their own hands to ensure seamless travel for their guests and to ensure safety for staff. The cost of testing is US$125 p.p.

Hyatt Hotels has completed its previously announced deal to acquire leading luxury resort-management services, travel, and hospitality group Apple Leisure Group (ALG), which will notably enable the hotel company to double its global resorts footprint through the addition of ALG’s AMR Collection brand portfolio (AMResorts), comprising approximately 100 hotels and resorts operating in 10 countries. Hyatt currently offers eight all-inclusives in the Caribbean and Mexico under the Hyatt Ziva and Zilara names, while the AMR Collection includes the Secrets, Dreams, Zoetry, Breathess, Alua, and Sunscape resort brands.

CRUISE

There’s still room on the Carnival Mardi Gras’ Nov. 20 sailing from Port Canaveral, Fla., featuring renowned chef and television personality Emeril Lagasse. It will be the first time Lagasse sees his Emeril’s Bistro on the Carnival flagship. While on board, the chef will be a special guest at the morning show in the ship’s Grand Central atrium and mingle with guests at his Bistro 1396 restaurant. He’ll also host a cooking class and be a special guest at a special Chef’s Table dinner with proceeds going to charity.

For a limited time, Holland America Line is allowing kids aged five to 17 to sail for free as third and fourth guests as a in a stateroom. The offer is good for selected cruises through spring 2022 and includes sailings in the Caribbean, Alaska, California, Europe, and Canada/New England.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

Now open, Walt Disney Swan Reserve is a new 14-story hotel positioned adjacent to the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin in the middle of Walt Disney World Resort. Featuring 349 spacious and versatile guest rooms – including 151 suites – with floor-to-ceiling views of the resort, the property is located within walking distance of EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Amenities include Amare, the signature Mediterranean restaurant; a grab-n-go café; scenic pool area with elevated deck and fire pit; and an array of Walt Disney World guest benefits, including early entry and extended evening hours at the theme parks.

Holiday festivities at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure get underway Nov. 13 and include the return of the popular “Universal’s Holiday Tour,” an exclusive guided tour available on select dates starting Nov. 21. Seasonal themes and activities continue through Jan. 2.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

The Advanced Commission Program for travel professionals by Collette is now permanent. Originally launched in September of 2020 and set to expire at the end of the year, the program allows travel professionals to receive a portion of the full commission amount based on type of booking (excluding groups); better still, Collette will not recall the advanced commission payments if a client chooses to cancel. Advisors can earn advanced commission on all tours in its newly released 2022-23 Worldwide Travel Guide with $100 per booking for land-only bookings; $125 per booking for land and air bookings; and $200 per booking for any reservation that includes Collette’s Travel Protection Plan.

EVENTS

On Nov. 18 at 1 p.m. EST, PromPeru is hosting the webinar “Wildlife destinations in the jungle of Peru,” featuring two local partners that offer experiences in the north or south Amazon region. One lucky advisor will receive a $125 Amazon Gift Card just for attending. Click .

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Former co-founder and CEO of Canada 3000 Airlines Angus Kinnear died in the Dominican Republic late last month of complications from COVID-19. The retired airline executive was a pivotal figure in Canadian travel, tourism, and aviation. Founded as Air 2000 in 1988 (the name was changed the following year), Canada 3000 had become Canada’s largest charter carrier by 1991. In November 2001 it collapsed after the downturn in air travel following the events of Sept. 11.

e-Travel Technologies has announced the appointment of Dianne Jackson as its new Vice President Client Success. Effective Nov. 1, Jackson, formerly of Red Label Vacations/Merit, will lead the company’s global team of analysts as well as develop its commercial strategy, including all national and international markets. Jackson has over 30 years of experience in the travel industry, including senior roles at CAA, Expedia Affiliate Network, Allianz Global Assistance, and First Choice Canada (Signature Vacations).

DESTINATIONS

Beginning Jan. 8, 2022, all commercial establishments in Costa Rica will require proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Proof of vaccination must be verified by means of a QR code or a “COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card,” and will apply to all individuals aged 12 and older. Commercial establishments include hotels and resorts, restaurants and bars, adventure tourism services, casinos, stores, museums, and gymnasiums.

During a session at World Travel Market entitled “Building Back Better for Destination Resilience,” the boss of Visit Cornwall – one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations – joked that he wanted to change the tourist board’s name to “Don’t Visit Cornwall” after it struggled to cope with the huge influx of visitors this summer. Visit Cornwall CEO and Marketing Director Malcolm Bell did say, however, that marketing money would no longer be spent on encouraging people to visit during the summer. “We will concentrate all efforts on marketing Cornwall in winter. Not the shoulders, but in the winter,” he told delegates.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Metropole Hanoi Named One of Most Incredible Hotels in the World

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Metropole Hanoi Named One of Most Incredible Hotels in the World - TRAVELINDEXHa Noi, Vietnam, November 6, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has been proclaimed one of “The 101 Most Incredible Hotels in the World” for 2022 by Fodor’s Travel, extending the historic luxury hotel’s run of prestigious and world-class honours this year.

The Fodor’s list includes only 14 hotels in Asia—and just two in Vietnam—and spotlights what the longtime travel guide and tourism information expert describes as “the crème de la crème of overnights, five-star quality quarters according to writers and editors who live to leave home.”

“We could all use a little escape right now. So why not choose something spectacular?” the editors at Fodor’s Travel write.

Of the Metropole Hanoi in particular, Fodor’s Travel praises the “staggeringly inviting beds” in the hotel’s iconic luxury suites and the “heavenly” breakfast buffet, and recommends travelers relax poolside while “sipping the Bamboo Bar’s signature Graham Greene Martini.” The famed British writer also has a suite named after him at the Metropole, where he was once a guest.

Last month, Metropole Hanoi was named one of “Asia’s Top 30 Hotels” by readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine and selected as Hanoi’s No. 1 business hotel by the editors of Business Traveller Asia-Pacific. Earlier in the year, the Metropole was awarded a Five-Star rating—the top level of recognition—from Forbes Travel Guide for a second consecutive year.

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

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Festive Afternoon Tea at Tuxedo Espresso Bar Carlton Bangkok

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Festive Afternoon Tea at Tuxedo Espresso Bar Carlton Bangkok - TRAVELINDEXTuxedo Espresso Bar at Carlton Bangkok Sukhumvit welcomes the festive season with an Afternoon Tea Set for two. This Festive Afternoon Tea Set features Santa inspired sweets including Santa Hat, Blueberry Financier & Gingerbread Sable. Christmas Stollen also makes its debut at Tuxedo this year.

The Chef’s Special is Raspberry Cheesecake. The savoury highlight is Pan Seared Foie Gras with Buttered Tangzhong, Onion & Sultana Chutney. Tuxedo’s take on the renowned croissant-waffle union is crowned with parma, brie and maple.

Scottish scones, crunchy praline bonbon and other Yuletide creations complete the experience. Priced at only THB 1,180++, this afternoon tea set includes a choice of Tuxedo Coffee and TWG Tea for two persons.

Available daily at Tuxedo Espresso Bar from 1 November 2021 until 3 January 2022 from 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm.

A selection of festive treats are also available for a la carte purchase from 1 November 2021. Pack them as gifts and make Christmas extra special for friends, family and colleagues.

• Santa Shoes (THB 200++)
• Santa Hat (THB 220++)
• Snowflex (THB 220++)
• Christmas Candle (THB 220++)
• Mini Fruit Cake (THB 240++)
• Stollen Stick (3 pcs/ box) (THB 270++)
• Tuxedo Bûche de Noël (THB 1,550++)

Special discount within November of 10% off for all Goodies items. Applicable for dine-in and take away.

For more information or to make reservations, please contact 02 090 7888

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Energy Healers Join Spiritual Journeys at Anantara Uluwatu Bali

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Energy Healers Join Spiritual Journeys at Anantara Uluwatu Bali - VISITBALI.orgUluwatu, Bali, Indonesia, November 6, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Hot on the heels of Bali’s reopening to vaccinated travellers, Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort offers guests new unique wellness experiences with Balinese energy healers. Anantara Uluwatu’s Anantara Spa welcomes two new renowned healers, experts in holistic natural approaches to healing mind, body and spirit.

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

  • Balinese Tibetan Sound healer, Vina Harya is a certified Reiki master and a siddhi-level transcendental meditation practitioner, as well as a sound healer skilled with Tibetan singing bowl and mantra chanting. Vina specialises in healing trauma for women.
  • Abdi is a Balinese healer who has spent 30 years harnessing his knowledge in Chakra healing and meditative mindfulness. With his unique skills, Abdi creates energy healing journeys tailored to each client’s unique needs and aims.
  • Joining the celebrated Ibu Jero, High Priestess of Balinese Healers, these healers guide guests through spiritual experiences that cleanse and remedy the mind and body.
  • Guests who wish to channel nature’s therapeutic powers and energy through unique treatment experiences can choose from a variety of tailored programmes for groups or private sessions.
In addition, Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort has been fully accredited in Cleanliness, Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability (CHSE) by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia for fulfilling the assessment accreditation.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tourism Unites Behind Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action at COP26

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Tourism Unites Behind Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action at COP26 - TRAVELINDEXGlasgow, Scotland, UK, November 6, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Glasgow Declaration for Climate Action in Tourism was launched today at the UN Climate Change Conference COP26. Some of tourism’s biggest businesses have joined governments and destinations in committing to cut emissions in half by 2030 and achieve Net Zero by 2050 at the latest.

The Glasgow Declaration recognizes the urgent need for a globally consistent plan for climate action in tourism. Signatories commit to measure, decarbonize, regenerate and unlock finance. Additionally, each signatory commits to deliver a concrete climate action plan, or updated plan, within 12 months of signing.

Speaking at COP26, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stressed that “while many private businesses have led the way in advancing climate action, a more ambitious sector-wide approach is needed to ensure tourism accelerates climate action in a meaningful way”. He added that “the Glasgow Declaration is a tool to help bridge the gap between good intentions and meaningful climate action”.

Already, more than 300 tourism stakeholders have signed up to the Declaration, including leading industry players to destinations, countries and other tourism stakeholders ranging from large to small. The Glasgow Declaration was developed through the collaboration of UNWTO, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Visit Scotland, the Travel Foundation and Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency, within the framework of the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme committed to accelerate sustainable consumption and production patterns.

The Glasgow Declaration is a tool to help bridge the gap between good intentions and meaningful climate action

“WTTC is delighted to be a supporter and launch partner to the Glasgow Declaration and thereby add our voice, the voice of the global private sector, to this important collective call for heightened ambition in the travel and tourism sector. The Glasgow Declaration is a real opportunity for travel and tourism to unite and show true leadership as we strive towards Net Zero”, said Julia Simpson, President and CEO, WTTC.

“Through the Glasgow Declaration, the One Planet Network‘s Sustainable Tourism Programme offers a common platform to catalyze climate action in tourism. This Initiative is fundamental to create the right momentum to accelerate climate action in tourism through sustainable consumption and production”, said Mr  Jorge  Laguna-Celis, Head of the One Planet Network Secretariat, Economy Division, UNEP.

“As UN High-Level Climate Action Champions, we warmly welcome the Glasgow Declaration and recognise the efforts of the over 300 Launch Partners. This is a pivotal step, aligning the tourism sector on our Race to Zero campaign’s goal of halving emissions by 2030 and achieving Net Zero by 2050 at the latest”, said Gonzalo Muñoz, High-Level Climate Champion.

The launch event at COP26 featured a panel discussion underscoring the importance of increased climate action and ambition in the tourism sector, with contributions from David W. Panuelo, President of the Federated States of Micronesia alongside Iván Eskildsen, Minister of Tourism for Panama; Jan Christian Vestre, Minister of Trade and Industry for Norway; Patrick Child, Deputy Director General for the Environment at the European Commission; Julia Simpson, CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council; Catherine Dolton, Trustee and Treasurer of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance; Darrell Wade, Co-founder and Chairman, Intrepid Group; and Jeremy Smith, Co-founder of Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency.

The more than 300 signatories include businesses, countries, tourism stakeholders and destinations, among them:

  • Accor
  • AITO – The Specialist Travel Association
  • ANVR – Dutch Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators
  • Asian Ecotourism Network
  • Panama
  • Barbados
  • Bilbao Convention Bureau
  • Bucuti & Tara
  • Cairngorns National Park Authority
  • Dallas Fort Worth Airport
  • ETOA – European Tourism Association
  • Forum Anders Reisen
  • Future of Tourism Coalition
  • GSTC – Global Sustainable Tourism Council
  • Iberostar Group
  • Innovation Norway
  • Intrepid Travel
  • Legacy Vacation Resorts
  • Much Better Adventures
  • Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions
  • NECSTouR – Network of European Regions for Sustainable and Competitive Tourism
  • Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States
  • Pacific Tourism Organization
  • Federated States of Micronesia
  • Skyscanner
  • Sustainable First
  • Sustainable Hospitality Alliance
  • The Long Run
  • Tourism Authority of Kiribati
  • Travalyst Limited
  • Travelindex Group
  • VisitScotland
  • World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Secretary-General, Climate Emergency is Bigger Threat than Covid’

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UNWTO Secretary-General, Climate Emergency is Bigger Threat than Covid - TRAVELINDEXGlasgow, Scotland, UK, November 5, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The head of the United Nations World Tourism Organization has warned that the “climate emergency is a bigger threat than Covid”.

Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of UNWTO, said the pandemic has hit tourism harder than any other sector. Tourism needs support from governments, through stronger public-private partnerships and through more and better-targeted financing investments, to rebuild in a sustainable and inclusive way.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

He made his comments during the UNWTO, WTTC & WTM Ministers’ Summit, held on the second day of WTM London, with tourism ministers from across the world discussing investing in tourism’s sustainable future.

“This summit gives us the chance to strengthen our advocacy on sustainability”, Pololikashvili said.

He told delegates that the recent Rome Leaders Declaration issued by the G20 specifically emphasized the need to restore travel and tourism, which in turn can help developing economies.

He said public investment will “encourage and leverage” private investment all over the world, adding: “Tourism can benefit if governments deliver the right support.

This summit gives us the chance to strengthen our advocacy on sustainability

“Going back to the old normal is not an option.”

He also said tourism represents a risk-free investment opportunity and highlighted the need to invest in education and youth on the way to net zero.

The UNWTO, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and other tourism and travel stakeholders will officially launch the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism at the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP26  on Thursday (4 November).

The WTTC is also planning to launch the Net Zero Roadmap for Travel & Tourism, to support the industry in combatting climate change, as part of the sector’s drive towards net zero by 2050.

The initiative is being run in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and professional services and consulting experts Accenture.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO, told the summit: “We have no alternative; we have to go green.”

She said sustainable growth is a key priority for the WTTC, adding: “Investors and the public demand that we invest to protect the planet and people.

“We need to invest in making sure destinations are great places to live and not just great places to visit.”

Nigel Huddleston MP, UK Tourism Minister, agreed, saying: “The partnership between private and public sectors is spurred by the consumer.”

He said his government can offer tax incentives to encourage sustainable developments, such as deductions for solar power and electric vehicle charging points.

Rita Marques, Secretary of State for Tourism of Portugal, outlined how her country is investing in green services and new ways to develop tourism across the seasons.

Massimo Garavaglia,the Italian Minister for Tourism, talked about how Italy is tackling overtourism in places such as Venice and Florence, to encourage visitors to explore other parts of Italy and its varied attractions.

Dr Khaled El-Enany, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt – which will host the Cop27 climate conference next year – highlighted Egyptian sustainable initiatives, such as a project to protect the reefs of the Red Sea.

Memunatu Pratt, Minister of Tourism and Culture of Sierra Leone, talked about how tourism in the west African country is recovering from civil war and the outbreaks of ebola and Covid-19.

She said investments in infrastructure, transport, health care and education were being integrated with the need to develop sustainable tourism.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Federico González, Chief Executive at Radisson Hotel Group, highlighted the need to ensure smaller hotel owners understand how they make their properties more sustainable, and David Lavorel, Chief Executive of airport technology firm SITA, outlined how technology can help the aviation sector optimise its current assets to be more environmentally friendly.

UNWTO will also partner with Arabian Travel Market – the sister event of WTM London – which will take place on 8-11 May in Dubai.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

‘WINE COUNTRY OASIS’: Cheers to new Napa Four Seasons

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Four Seasons’ first resort set within a working winery has debuted in California’s Napa Valley, beckoning food and wine lovers with unique immersive experiences, grape-to-glass tastings, and the laid-back vibe of its setting in the charming town of Calistoga, known for its natural hot springs and mud baths, and easy-going lifestyle.

Tucked into the base of Mount Saint Helena at the top of Napa Valley, the resort is surrounded by hundreds of acres of vineyards, and guests can expect a luxury hospitality experience centred on first-rate food, wine, and spirits, plus wellness-inspired amenities.

“Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley marks a significant milestone for our brand as we expand our California collection with the introduction of the first Four Seasons resort within a working winery,” says Vince Parrotta, president of hotel operations, Americas West for Four Seasons.

GM Mehdi Eftekari calls the property “the ultimate wine country oasis.”

Accommodation

The resort features 85 spacious rooms, suites, and villas, each with breath-taking views, fireplaces, private terraces, and inspired design. This includes The Estate Villa, a nearly 315-sq.-m. free-standing building nestled at the edge of the on-site vineyard, which features indoor-outdoor living and dining, a private garden, and a swimming pool.

Amenities include two outdoor swimming pools nestled amid the vineyard, a fully supervised kids program, bocce ball court, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities complete with vineyard views, Technogym equipment, and programming.

Dining

Led by Michelin-starred executive chef Erik Anderson, TRUSS Restaurant + Bar befits Napa Valley’s stylish culinary scene, bringing a spirited, modern fine dining experience with a farm-fresh a la carte menu, French techniques, and an elevated yet laidback indoor-outdoor environment with sweeping views of the Calistoga vineyards and Palisades Mountains. Guests can choose from a highly curated 250-label wine list with a special focus on the Calistoga region.

Elusa Winery and Vineyard

For the first time, a fully immersive wine country experience is now offered within the context of a Four Seasons resort. In partnership with Thomas Rivers Brown – a Calistoga resident who has received national acclaim since beginning his winemaking career a quarter century ago – Elusa Winery and its 1.9-hectare organic vineyard celebrates the unique terroir of the Calistoga American Viticultural Area. With mere steps from grape to glass, guests of Four Seasons can sip the signature Elusa wines in the Tasting Room at TRUSS, or delivered by the bottle to one’s own guest room, suite, or private retreat.

Guests are invited to explore the winemaking process from harvest and sorting to blending and ageing, with hands-on demonstrations, opportunities to meet the winemakers, and wine tastings that include a variety of wines from the Napa region.

Spa

Spa Talisa is an homage to Calistoga’s 150-year history as a spa and wellness destination. Designed as a haven for relaxation and indulgence, the spa boasts eight well-appointed treatment rooms for an array of intuitive and therapeutic practices, as well as a variety of al fresco experiences, including private patios with steam decks used for the locally-inspired steam experience – an authentic Calistoga ritual.

Experiences

Resort guests have the opportunity to partake in highly curated, enriching itineraries by the resort’s guest relations team, which may include a trip to the Safari West for families with young, animal-loving kids; guided bike tours through the local country roads and hidden valleys; or an oenophiles’ excursion through the region’s best, under-the-radar wine tasting experiences; plus gallery hopping, boutique shopping, scenic drives and off-the-beaten path diversions.

Events

Among several event venue options at Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley are the Vineyard Barn, a rustic-chic space with high ceilings and large barn doors, filled with natural light and adjacent to a stunning lawn with views of the vineyard; and the Calistoga Ballroom and adjacent Lakeside Lawn that overlooks the garden, lake, and Mayacamas Mountains in the distance. Wedding couples, event hosts and meeting planners are invited to contact the resort to arrange pre-opening site tours and book space.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News