Global Travel News

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

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

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

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

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

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

The bar

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

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

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

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

Patio

With glass purposefully in hand, we at Travel Industry Today continue our series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues. For more articles in the series, click here:

PREVIOUS ARTICLES: https://travelindustrytoday.com/pub-patio/

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read original article at Hyatt Newsroom

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Barcelona Call to Action Maps Way Forward for Tourism

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

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Tourism must lead the way

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

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

SDGs as reference for growth

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

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

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

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

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

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

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

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

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

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

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WEF: New Principles Provide Roadmap for Net-Zero Buildings

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WEF: New Principles Provide Roadmap for Net-Zero Buildings

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

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

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

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

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

The Principles

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

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

Industry Leadership

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

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

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

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

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

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

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Bethesda, MD, part of Marriott International, Inc., currently operates more than 100 hotels in 32 countries and territories. For more information or reservations, visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR). The Ritz-Carlton is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.

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

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Santander Golf Tour Barcelona and Ladies European Tour Access

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Santander Golf Tour Barcelona and Ladies European Tour Access

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

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

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

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

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

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

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

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

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

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

The future could be brighter for the Middle East

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

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

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

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

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

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

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Toki Air joins Sabre to Launch Leisure Focused Airline

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Toki Air joins Sabre to Launch Leisure Focused Airline

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Notches Prestigious Honours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News