Global Travel News

ROUND-UP:Aug. 23-27, 2021

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Canadians get the green light for Britain, unvaccinated Air Canada employees face the axe, ITA replaces Alitalia, Pfizer finally gets approved in US, , Wild Florida welcomes unusual baby gators, St. Kitts makes its mark in Canada, and more in last week’s Round-up.

NEWS

Effective today, Canada has been added to the United Kingdom’s “green list,” meaning travellers can enter the UK without a mandatory quarantine. Canadians will still need to take a pre-departure test and a COVID-19 test on or before day 2 of arrival. Regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated, no quarantine will be required, unless an individual tests positive. All visitors must also complete the passenger locator form, which can be filled out online 48 hours before arrival. Local variations may apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

All non-exempted employees of Air Canada mainline, Air Canada Rouge and Air Canada Vacations must be fully vaccinated by Oct. 30 or “face consequences up to and including unpaid leave or termination.”

Delta Airlines says it will begin charging employees on the company health plan $200 a month if they fail to get vaccinated against COVID-19, a policy the airline’s top executive says is necessary because the average hospital stay for the virus costs the airline $40,000.

With the launch of a new Italian carrier (Italia Trasporto Aereo, or ITA) imminent, Alitalia has announced that is has stopped selling tickets from Oct. 15, effectively signalling an end to the airline, which has been in operation since 1947, but in bankruptcy since 2017. The airline says it will contact affected passengers for refunds or rebooking on an Alitalia flight before Oct. 14.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has been named Best Airport in North America by the Skytrax World Airport Awards for a record 12th year in a row. Skytrax is recognized as the global benchmark of airport excellence with more than 21.65 million completed passenger questionnaires, making it the largest annual global airport customer satisfaction survey. YVR also received the Skytrax COVID-19 Airport Excellence award, the only airport in Canada to do so.

The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is now fully approved for used by the US Food and Drug Administration. Perhaps more importantly, the status upgrade from “emergency use authorization” in the US (it has been approved in Canada) is expected to spur wary individuals to finally get the shot as the delta variant continues to surge.

RE-OPENING/RE-START

California may have been last in the US cruising queue, after Florida, Texas, and Seattle, but the state has returned as a cruise gateway after 17 months on pandemic pause with the launch of the Carnival Panorama last week bound for the Mexican Riviera.

Crystal Cruises celebrated the return to service for luxury ocean ship Crystal Symphony as she departed this week on the first in a series of four seven-night “Luxury Bermuda Escapes” cruises sailing roundtrip out of Boston on Sundays. The ship’s departure was delayed by one day due to Hurricane Henri. The series of Bermuda sailings will shift to New York starting Sept. 24.

BY THE NUMBERS

As part of a commitment to address climate change and protect biodiversity, Parks Canada is mobilizing to plant 150,000 trees this summer in up to 18 national parks from coast to coast. This includes planting 2,500 trees in Fundy National Park this year alone.

AIR

With Canada’s international border set to reopen on Sept. 7, Air Canada will begin Toronto-Munich service three times weeks weekly departing the former Tues., Thurs., and Sat., and the latter Mon-Wed-Fri. AC service will aboard a 298-seat Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

Non-stop service between Orange County/Anaheim and Calgary will be re-introduced by WestJet effective Nov. 4, with twice weekly service that will transition to thrice weekly on Dec. 7. Additionally, the airline moves from summer flights to providing year-round service between Calgary and San Francisco, operating twice weekly, beginning Oct. 31, 2021.

Gulf Air has been added to Aeroplan’s roster of over 40 airline travel partners. The national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain serves 55 cities in 30 countries with modern fleet consisting of the A320 family and the 787 Dreamliner.

Member of Flying Blue, Air France and KLM’s loyalty program can now transfer of their American Express Membership Rewards points to their Explorer, Silver, Gold or Platinum Flying Blue accounts. They also can take advantage of the monthly Promo Rewards, such as a reduction in miles needed to book rewards tickets or benefit from the offers of an array of partners including car rentals and hotel stays.

TOURS

Quark Expeditions

Polar adventure operator Quark Expeditions has announced a total of 17 different itineraries in its Arctic 2023 season – many on the technologically-advanced ship, Ultramarine. Guests on Ultramarine, equipped with two helicopters and 20 quick-deploy Zodiacs, can choose from a varied portfolio of adventure options in the industry, such as flightseeing and helicopter-supported mountain biking. Sample tours include “Spitsbergen Explorer: Wildlife Capital of the Arctic,” “Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland,” “Canada’s Remote Arctic: Northwest Passage to Ellesmere Island,” and “Jewels of the Russian Arctic: Franz Josef Land.”

Several new direct Sunwing routes will start this fall from Toronto and Montreal: Toronto-Los Cabos, Thursdays starting Sept. 16; Toronto-Aruba, Mondays starting Sept. 20; Toronto-St. Maarten, Thursdays starting Sept. 30; Montreal-St. Maarten, Thursdays starting Nov. 4; and, Montreal-Los Cabos, Thursdays starting Nov. 11. In addition to the flights, vacationers can choose from a range of popular resorts, such as the all-inclusive Riu Palace Aruba, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort Casino and Spa in St. Maarten, and the adults-only Riu Palace Baja California in Los Cabos.

HOTELS

The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas is relaunching its entertainment with an entire slate of headliner shows, from a modern day “Rat Pack” of former boy band performers, to a new dance show featuring Dancing with the Stars alum Derek Hough. In all, more than 100 shows will be available in 2021, throughout the resort.

Jamaica’s upscale The Tryall Club in Montego Bay has added two new premium accommodation options to its portfolio of 74 condominiums, beach houses, and luxury villas. Earlier this year, the property unveiled a 1,000-sq.-m., six-bedroom Oceans villa, which features Zen-inspired design with a private infinity pool; and the grand five-bedroom Bella Vista, appointed with traditional mahogany furnishings, Italian marble, a bespoke game room, and a separate wellness building. With rental rates starting at US$20,000 per week, the new Tryall Club villas feature personalized service from dedicated butlers, chefs, and housekeepers. Guests can also travel in style via private jet through an new partnership with XO Jet Aviation.

RESORTS

Located on a hillside in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle in Mexico, Delta Hotels by Marriott, Riviera Nayarit, an All-Inclusive Resort is the company’s first property in Mexico and its inaugural all-included resort. Situated between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, the resort features 117 guestrooms featuring private balconies with mountain views, two restaurants, and four pop-up venues. Additionally, there are two swimming pools, 24-hour fitness centre, 10-treatment room spa, and a beach club accessible via frequent shuttle service. The property is located 30 minutes away from Puerto Vallarta airport and nearby attractions such as a popular handcraft market and Flamingo’s Golf Club.

Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana is preparing for a December opening in the Dominican Republic. A product of a partnership with Karisma Hotels & Resorts under the Island Reserve brand, the all-inclusive resort is designed to combine the easy-going, fun vibe of Margaritaville resorts with the luxury bona fides of Karisma, which owns and manages an extensive portfolio of resorts including Azul, Allure, El Dorado, Nickelodean, Sensatori, and other brands. The five-star resort, located in Cap Cana (near Punta Cana) on the southwestern-most tip of the DR, will mark the second resort for the Island Reserve brand after Cancun.

CRUISE

Vulnerable people, even if they are fully vaccinated, should avoid cruising at present, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says in new guidance published on its web site. The warning, which includes river cruising, applies to people with a high risk of serious illness, including those with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and the elderly.

The debut of Disney Uncharted Adventure aboard the Disney Wish will lead guests on a journey “from bow to stern and beyond the stars” that allows them to interact with Disney characters while completing quests to further an adventurous and fun storyline. Individuals or groups up to six can play, with the Play Disney Parks app acting as a spyglass that turns parts of the ship into a virtual reality playing field. The ship will sail its maiden voyage on June 9, 2022.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

After months of incubation, care, and monitoring, Wild Florida and its “Croc Squad” officially welcomed two more albino hatchlings to Orlando attraction, Wild Florida, which runs the world’s only successful albino alligator breeding program. Earlier this summer, a batch of 18 albino alligator eggs were collected from their adult albino alligators, Snowflake and Blizzard. The baby crocs are the second hatchlings delivered and will be put on exhibit at a later date. Wild Florida Airboats, Drive-thru Safari & Gator Park is located on Lake Cypress in Kenansville.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

St. Maarten tourism is launching a special “Travel Agent Program” for three consecutive months starting in September. North American travel professionals are invited to independently visit the Dutch Caribbean island and take advantage of special rates from on island partners, which include accommodations, land and watersport activities, restaurants and more.
For details and registration, e-mail stb-marketing@sintmaartengov.org 

EVENTS

Sept. 2-5: For the second consecutive year, The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) will hold its annual conference virtually, with Leshan, China, once again the featured destination. Virtual PATA Travel Mart (PTM) 2021 will be a business-to-business travel contracting and virtual networking event designed to mirror and enhance the features of the long-standing PTM, which for over four decades has connected qualified international buyers and sellers from Asia Pacific and beyond through one-to-one business appointments. Check PATA’s website for more details and registration.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

In a sign of increased commitment to the Canadian market where it hopes to increase visibility and boost stayover visitors, the St. Kitts Tourism Authority (SKTA) has named Oakville, Ont.-based Fathom Communications (Fathom Co) as its first-ever Canadian Public Relations Agency. The agency’s scope of work will include trade and consumer media relations, content strategy, events and activations, social media strategy and the cultivation of co-op marketing opportunities. The island is now open to fully vaccinated travellers and Air Canada will offer non-stop service from Toronto Nov. 7 to April 24, 2022. E-mail Laura Johnson at ljohnston@fathomco.com

DESTINATIONS

HK Tramways in Hong Kong as been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the “largest double-decker tram fleet in service.” It is the world’s most unique fleet of double-deck tramcars in operation, carrying up to 200,000 passengers every day. Affectionately known by locals as the “Ding Ding,” it is one of the cheapest, greenest, and most scenic ways to get around Hong Kong.

Beijing is planning to develop a special tourist route in the Chinese capital ahead of the planned opening of Universal Studios Beijing this fall. The tourism trail will encompass the Universal Studios theme park in Tongzhou district as well as its nearby destinations such as the Grand Canal, the Songzhuang artist village, the Taihu town, and the Zhangjiawan ancient town. According to city officials, “The route would help tourists to enjoy beautiful sceneries, experience intangible cultural heritage and modern arts, and relax with plenty of outdoor activities in the area.” More hotels will also be built around the route.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Why Nature Lover Need to Visit Colombia

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Why Nature Lover Need to Visit Colombia

Bogota, Colombia, August 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Senseless tourism has come to an end and the world is increasingly filled with more conscious travelers. Nominated as one of the 52 countries to love in 2021 by The New York Times, Colombia is one of the trendiest destinations for this year due to its natural wealth and the sustainability practices implemented by its tourist sector. If you are a nature lover seeking for outdoor experiences, adventure, great food and breathtaking landscapes for your next vacation, after reading this article, your travel choice will be a no brainer!

Biodiversity treasures
When it comes to listing the nature wonders of Colombia, one doesn’t even know where to start. Colombia is the most biodiverse country per square kilometer; it is number one in bird diversity with more than 1,900 different species and it is also the country with the largest number of butterflies in the world —registering more than 3,600—, which means that 20% of the species of butterflies in the planet live in Colombia. All these facts, among others, make the country a perfect destination for birdwatching, whale watching, trekking, hiking and cycling while enjoying the mountains, the jungle, the desert and the Caribbean beaches, all in one! Plus, did you know that precisely because of its natural biodiversity, in Colombia you can eat a different type of fruit or seed by day, without repeating, for more than a year? Get your forks ready, foodies.

Sustainability is at the core of Colombia’s tourism promotion
Over the last few years, Colombia has recognized that its natural and cultural wealth can be enjoyed by travelers while also being protected and preserved through sustainability guidelines. “Our country stands out for its competitive advantages in terms of sustainable tourism, and we have 27 Ministry-certified sustainable tourism destinations,” said Flavia Santoro, president of ProColombia, the agency in charge of promoting tourism in the country. “Colombia is also one of the few countries in the world with a Sustainable Tourism Policy, that seeks to help develop a more responsible and resilient tourism industry that preserves our culture and the environment.”

Well-prepared tourist guides and tourists as well!
To inspire both local guides as well as international travelers and educate them on the country’s efforts towards building a trustable and strong industry, Colombia released earlier this year a nature guide that features easy-to-understand information of its responsible and sustainable practices. The Illustrative Handbook for Nature Tourism Guides includes information about the country’s natural wealth, as well as 50 podcasts and factsheets available in Spanish and English. It’s free of charge and available here. This project was supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), “Riqueza Natural” Program, the Humboldt Institute, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and Punto Aparte Editors.

Top cycling destination
What a better way to get to know a country than riding its roads? In addition to finding incredible routes where world cycling greats such as Egan Bernal and Nairo Quintana do their trainings, due to its equatorial location, traveling 500 meters in Colombia represents moving from one ecosystem to another. In fact, and taking advantage of the potential these experiences have, ProColombia is launching this new tourism strategy called Colombia, the top cycling destination, to attract ‘bike geeks’ from all over the world!

Great air connectivity
During 2021, international air connectivity in Colombia has made significant progress, and airlines such as American Airlines, JetBlue, Spirit, among others, are betting on Colombia as a connectivity hub. An additional fact for the American travelers: currently, there are 351 weekly frequencies available between Colombia and US cities such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, New York, Orlando, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Los Angeles and Washington. That means 61,944 seats available per week!

Unique types of accommodation
In a destination where nature and sustainability stand out, the whole perfect package is closed with an eco-accommodation offer. Unique places and unconventional rooms are offered to stay and enjoy a gratifying evening, such as glamping, villas, farms, and private houses. Projects like Secretos de Colombia or many other glamping hotels such as Nido del Condor and Color de Mis Rêves are great examples. These experiences are well known by its contact with nature and the facility for visitors to get close to the sky from their room comfort, nothing better to end the day than a glass ceiling to watch the stars.

For more information about Colombia, please visit VisitColombia.org

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Slate Phuket Prepares to Welcome Businesses Back

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The Slate Phuket Prepares to Welcome Businesses Back

Phuket, Thailand, August 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Bill Bensley’s whimsical beachfront resort looks forward to the return of domestic and international events with two attractive MICE packages that combine world-class meetings with innovative elements and an all-new Art Journey. The Slate is a great MICE venue for art lovers. This stylish space outside the pillar-free Tongkah Hall is perfect for pre-function gatherings, creative coffee breaks and original exhibitions. The Slate, art-inspired beachfront resort on Phuket’s secluded northwest coast, is preparing for the return of business meetings with a series of attractive MICE packages that combine world-class facilities and out-of-the-box experiences to create truly exceptional events.

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

Following 18 months of travel restrictions, The Slate foresees plenty of pent-up demand for face-to-face corporate functions. While online meeting tools such as Zoom have played an important role in connecting people during the pandemic, there is no substitute for personal contact and many companies are already planning to host their long-awaited events in 2022. For businesses that want to encourage and incentivise their teams after a challenging time, there can be few better places than The Slate, where Bill Bensley’s breath-taking design blends seamlessly with the tropical landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Phuket.

With 25 acres of inspiring space, including lush landscaped gardens, The Slate offers endless event options to enable the safe restart of domestic and international events, The Slate has crafted a pair of packages that include plenty of added value, so every company can maximise their MICE budget. The Slate understands that for every organisation, the health and safety of its associates is its top priority. With this in mind, these new packages will allow groups of guests to come together in an uplifting ambience, while also taking every precaution to take care of delegates.

Under the Meet Again at The Slate package, businesses will benefit from reconfigured venues that strike the perfect balance between personal connections and physical space, including the use of larger areas for smaller groups and one-way systems to ensure social distancing. In line with the hotel’s advanced biosecurity measures, all attendees will be subject to temperature checks, advanced sanitation procedures and personal protective equipment (PPE), and all facilities will undergo intensive deep cleaning.

Half-day and full-day meeting packages are available, including private roundtrip airport transfers, fully-equipped function room rental, priority check-in, a dedicated hospitality desk, a 30-minute cocktail reception upon arrival, daily breakfast, coffee breaks, a conference lunch, late check-out, a one-hour outdoor team activity and a group photo, which will be framed and presented to each guest as a turndown gift. To boost the group’s wellbeing, a choice of yoga and meditation breaks will be offered to cleanse the mind, body and soul, guests will be able to plant herbs in the resort’s organic garden, and every attendee will enjoy 20% discounts at the award-winning Coqoon Spa and KRU Precision Wellness, the onsite healthcare facility.

Priced at THB 1,600 per person for a half-day meeting package and THB 1,800 for a full-day package, this offer is valid for bookings made until 30th April 2022 and events staged by 31st October 2022, for groups of 30-50 guests. One VIP will also be treated to a complimentary upgrade to a Private Pool Suite.

Alternatively, the Healthy Meeting at The Slate package lets event planners create salubrious experiences that are inspired by the natural, transformative elements of Nai Yang Beach. Ideal for corporate away days, company conferences and team-building sessions, this four-day, three-night package includes luxurious accommodation (starting from a Pearl Bed Suite), daily breakfast with fresh juice, smoothies and nutrient-packed dishes, two full-day meeting packages with wholesome morning and afternoon breaks, a specially prepared conference lunch with options for vegans and vegetarians, and a gala dinner. To enhance physical and mental wellbeing, The Slate will also provide 20-minute stretchercise and sunset rituals, along with mindfulness moments at KRU Precision Wellness, and the meeting room will even include fitness elements.

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

Priced at THB 16,888 (single) and THB 11,888 (double), this innovative health-giving package is valid until 31st October 2022 for groups of 20-50 people.

Rivet, the modern Japanese restaurant, is a sophisticated and intriguing setting for one-of-a-kind dining experiences The Slate is a heavenly destination for business events, with a collection of modern meeting spaces that blend international amenities with authentic Thai grace and charm, all surrounded by Bill Bensley’s whimsical dreamscapes and original artworks. To showcase The Slate’s artistic interiors, the new Art Journey is an intriguing, QR code-enabled tour that transports guests through this living gallery and introduces its original sculptures and installations.

Dirty Monstera is a mysterious spot nestled deep within The Slate – ideal for informal get-togethers and after-parties Meeting planners can choose from a selection of state-of-the-art venues, including the pillar-free 500-pax Tongkah Hall, the bright and bold Jomon Pavilion with its vast windows, elevated ceilings and skylights, two more intimate suites, and the Coliseum Garden, an enchanting space for alfresco receptions and cocktail evenings under the stars. Every occasion will be fully supported by expert planners who can think out of the box and craft truly unique concepts.

About The Slate, A Phuket Pearl Resort
Inspired by Phuket’s tin mining past, The Slate blends Bill Bensley’s whimsical design with industrial elements to create highly unique guest experiences. A collection of stunning suites and villas, including pool villas and the spectacular Bensley Suite, surround glistening pools and gardens, and the serene Coqoon Spa blends seamlessly into the natural landscape. Discover delectable dining in a selection of stylish restaurants and bars, enjoy authentic locally-inspired activities, from yoga to Muay Thai, or simply stroll along the pure shores of Nai Yang Beach.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

School of Hotel and Tourism Management & WTTC Enter into Partnership

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School of Hotel and Tourism Management & WTTC Enter into Partnership - TRAVELINDEXHong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, August 28,2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate and work together for the sustainable growth of global travel and tourism.

The World Travel and Tourism Council is a body representing the travel and tourism private sector globally. Its members consist of Chairs, Presidents and Chief Executives of the world’s leading, private sector travel and tourism businesses, who bring specialist knowledge to guide government policy and decision-making. The WTTC has been the voice of the industry globally and is committed to raising the awareness of governments and the public of the economic and social significance of the travel and tourism sector.

The collaboration is in keeping with the two parties’ common interests in promoting the importance of the sustainable growth of the travel and tourism sector, taking the form of shared information and mutual collaboration. As a Knowledge Partner, the SHTM will provide the WTTC with research data and insight services that will be used by the WTTC team to produce joint research reports or to provide specific industry information for dissemination to the wider WTTC membership. The two organisations will also work together to leverage their respective areas of expertise, to produce insight reports, to provide mutual support for events and conferences such as the WTTC Global Summit and regional events.

“One of the important roles of the SHTM is to feed research findings and other forms of expertise back to its principle base – the industry we serve,” said Professor Kaye Chon, SHTM Dean, Chair Professor and Walter and Wendy Kwok Family Foundation Professor in International Hospitality Management. “This MOU is a further step to strengthen our collaboration, reaffirming the industry’s support for us. We look forward to working more closely with our WTTC counterparts in the years to come.”

“We are excited to partner with the SHTM in the Greater China region. We share the same goal to play a leading and positive role in the sustainable growth of the private sector,” said Ms Maribel Rodriguez, SVP of the WTTC.

About PolyU’s School of Hotel and Tourism Management
For over 40 years, the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has refined a distinctive vision of hospitality and tourism education and become a world-leading hotel and tourism school. Ranked No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality and Tourism Management” category in ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2021 for the fifth consecutive year, placed No. 1 globally in the “Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services” category in the University Ranking by Academic Performance in 2020/2021 for four years in a row, rated No. 1 in the world in the “Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism” subject area by the CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017, and ranked No. 1 in Asia in the “Hospitality and Leisure Management” subject area in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021 for the fifth consecutive year, the SHTM is a symbol of excellence in the field, exemplifying its motto of Leading Hospitality and Tourism.

The School is driven by the need to serve its industry and academic communities through the advancement of education and dissemination of knowledge. With a strong international team of over 70 faculty members from diverse cultural backgrounds, the SHTM offers programmes at levels ranging from undergraduate degrees to doctoral degrees. Through Hotel ICON, the School’s groundbreaking teaching and research hotel and a vital aspect of its paradigm-shifting approach to hospitality and tourism education, the SHTM is advancing teaching, learning and research, inspiring a new generation of passionate, pioneering professionals to take their positions as leaders in the hospitality and tourism industry.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IATA Backs European Digital Covid Certificate as Global Standard

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IATA Backs European Digital Covid Certificate as Global Standard

Geneva, Switzerland, August 27, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) commended the European Commission for its leadership and speed in delivering the EU Digital COVID Certificate (DCC) and urged states to make it their global standard for digital vaccine certificates.

“The DCC was delivered in record time to help facilitate the reopening of EU states to travel. In the absence of a single global standard for digital vaccine certificates, it should serve as a blueprint for other nations looking to implement digital vaccination certificates to help facilitate travel and its associated economic benefits,” said Conrad Clifford, IATA’s Deputy Director General.

The EU DCC meets several key criteria which have been identified as important if a digital vaccination certificate is to be effective:

  • Format: the DCC has the flexibility to be used in both paper and digital format
  • QR code: The DCC QR code can be included in both digital and paper format. It contains essential information as well as a digital signature to make sure the certificate is authentic.
  • Verification and authentication:  The European Commission has built a gateway through which the encrypted data used to sign DCCs and required to authenticate certificate signatures can be distributed across the EU. The gateway can be also used to distribute encrypted data of non-EU certificate issuers other issuers. The EU has also developed a specification for machine readable Validation Rules for cross-country travel.

The EU DCC is implemented in the 27 EU Member states and a number of reciprocal agreements have been agreed with other states’ own vaccination certificates, including Switzerland, Turkey, and Ukraine. In the absence of a single global standard for digital vaccination certificates, up to 60 other countries are looking to use the DCC specification for their own certification. The DCC is an excellent model as it is consistent with the latest World Health Organization Guidance and is fully supported by IATA Travel Pass. Another benefit of the DCC is that it enables holders to access non-aviation sites in Europe that require proof of vaccination, such as museums, sporting events and concerts.

IATA wishes to offer its collaboration to EU Commission and any other interested state to further integrate the DCC into airline processes for a secure and seamless passenger experience, such as support for selective disclosure of personal data.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera Shares 8-Point Plan to Support Travel Recovery

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PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera Shares 8-Point Plan to Support Travel Recovery

Bangkok, Thailand, August 27, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / PATA CEO, Liz Ortiguera, shared an email to our network of valued PATA International Members on Aug 19, 2021 with details about her top priorities. Her message has been reposted below:

I am writing this approximately two and a half months into my tenure as CEO, with the world about 20 months into the COVID-19 pandemic and the travel sector in a long-awaited, slow-starting recovery. Daily cases are still escalating in parts of Asia-Pacific, and I hope you and your family are staying safe and taking all necessary precautions.

Since starting, I’ve had great opportunities to meet (albeit virtually) with various stakeholders within our association and the broader sector. Most importantly, I’ve had the chance to listen to the status of various destinations and members, monitor the ever-changing policies to mitigate risk, and identify opportunities for PATA to best support our members during this crisis.  We’re aware of both the urgent and strategic needs of our valued members and the industry.  Like many of you, I’ve felt the pandemic’s impact both personally and professionally. I initially had my livelihood directly impacted and have been separated from seeing close family members for over 18 months.  Since joining PATA, I have been inspired by the diversity and strength of the network, see great potential and am confident we can drive progress together in this recovery.

With this in mind, I’m sharing now PATA’s 8-Point Industry Recovery Plan to support both immediate and strategic needs.

1 – PATA Crisis Resource Center :

Launched in May 2020, this resource centre is available to all travel sector members and provides recovery playbooks for all travel industries (aviation to hospitality) with toolkits covering communications, marketing, health, policy and case studies.

2 – Government Members’ Only Roundtable:

Earlier this month, PATA launched a roundtable series to share insights and exchange ideas across destinations on restarting travel. The first session of this series featured presentations by select destinations, including Hawaii, Maldives, and Thailand.  The second session just held on Aug 17 featured COVAX/UNICEF with a briefing on vaccine equity, deployment measures and community acceptance strategies.  In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to support our destination members by sourcing subject matter experts and supporting a pan-regional and global dialogue to support the industry recovery.

3 – Innovation Workshop Series and Innovation Hub for Members:

We’ve just launched an Innovation Series of workshop-style webinars designed to deliver practical information to members.  Upcoming topics will range from digital marketing, COVID-19 Safe best practices, leadership and resiliency skills, destination development, etc.  You hopefully saw our member survey for ideas on topics and we would continue to welcome your ideas for future sessions.  We’d like to hear suggested topics that would best support your recovery.

On our website, please also check out our new Travel Innovations Hub – crowd-sourced travel innovation ideas from around the globe. This site is meant to engage and inspire our members. Please send us any interesting innovations you’ve launched yourself, experienced or simply read about to add to this collection.

4 – Ongoing Industry Trends and Forecasts for Members:

With the ever-changing status of multiple elements influencing our recovery, PATA recognises the need for frequent and diverse expert-advised trends and forecast reporting. Through live webinars and research reports supported by our vast network of industry experts, we will continue to regularly deliver expert-sourced intelligence reporting to keep you informed.

5 – Vaccine Equity Initiative supporting COVAX/UNICEF :

A foundational element to our recovery is vaccine equity, deployment, and acceptance across the region and beyond. PATA is proud to provide its support to the COVAX/UNICEF initiative in the form of advocacy, industry education, fundraising and, if required, logistics sourcing.  PATA International Members, Chapter Members and Youth Members are invited to join in the session “Webinar | The Race to End the Pandemic: Ensuring Global Vaccine Equity” on Wed, Aug 25 to understand the importance of vaccine equity and what UNICEF/COVAX is doing to drive global vaccination.

6 – PATA Global Community Connections:

Like the rest of the world, PATA was forced to make a big pivot from offline/real life interactions at physical events to online webinars.   We’ve started hosting hybrid events and will continue to a) deliver engaging in-destination physical events wherever possible and b) complement it by leveraging new, engaging technology platforms and content to bring the members together globally and in smaller forums to support your business development.  The strength and depth of the connections built is a core element to the PATA heritage and value proposition and we will find ways to transcend boundaries to continue that.

7 – Knowledge Share / Collaboration with Global Organisations:

We are in regular collaboration with World Bank, ADB, GIZ and other development organisations/consulting firms on industry leading topics to support the recovery.  We regularly engage with the Global Tourism and Travel Task Force meetings along with leaders from WTTC, IATA, ACI, WEF, ICAO and others.  PATA is looking forward to engaging more industry colleagues in supporting the COVAX/UNICEF Vaccine Equity initiative as a foundation to the industry recovery.

8 – Tourism Destination Resilience:

In April PATA launched a project to respond to the need for a more resilient tourism industry that addresses not only the current COVID-19 pandemic, but the next crisis that will surely follow. PATA is managing a team of 20 subject matter experts to provide a framework that will be launched in four PATA member destinations, with online resources available across the industry. The project addresses pillars of resilience including: Environment, Economy, Community, Visitors and Health & Safety. The project is implemented by PATA with support of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

The above is in addition to the delivery of regular events – hosted in either a virtual or hybrid format. We currently have 6 scheduled for the balance of the year with more in development.

I view this as just the beginning of our journey to leverage our vast network’s strengths to support each other in this challenging recovery. Pre-pandemic Asia-Pacific was viewed as the engine for growth in the global travel industry.  That high potential and the pent-up demand is still here with us in the region. I’m confident that we’ll emerge better and stronger with a sharper focus on sustainability. We’re working hard to help accelerate this industry recovery and will continue to support you and the broader industry in capturing Asia-Pacific’s opportunities with responsible travel and tourism.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

YOU WILL GET WET: Berlin Noah’s Ark kids’ museum opens with a splash

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Torrential rain pours down, waves break and big puddles splash as visitors enter the new children’s museum at the Jewish Museum in Berlin. No surprise there, because the exhibit is dedicated to the ancient story of Noah’s Ark and begins in the middle of the biblical deluge.

Young children are invited to actively participate in Noah’s journey as soon as they set foot in the newly opened ANOHA Children’s World. They can build little arks that they can float on a “deluge simulator” or help rescue 150 animals, created by over a dozen artists out of recycled material such as old spoons, espresso coffeemakers, pieces of carpet or bike fenders. They can even use the animals’ pretend excrement — represented by brown felt balls — to fertilize plants.

They can also cuddle a gigantic sloth, crawl through the serpentine body of an anaconda or take a rest on a yellow-eyed octopus.

The circular, wooden Ark is the centerpiece of the museum and spans 7 m.
tall and 28 m. wide. At its heart is an empty space where visitors are invited to sit down, linger, and think about life’s big universal questions: about God and the world, the past, and the future.

At the end of the tour, there are glimpses of the earth again, rocks lurking out of the retreating floods and a big rainbow on which kids can write their thoughts, wishes, or worries.

The ANOHA museum was built inside a former flower market, across the street from the Jewish Museum’s main building on a 2,700-sq.-m. space. It was meant to open in May 2020 but was delayed by the coronavirus pandemic.

While the main Jewish Museum’s permanent and temporary exhibitions primarily cater to adults and teenagers, the children’s museum targets the youngest visitors, children between three and 10.

“We tried to always listen to the children when we created this world,” Ane Kleine-Engel, head of the children’s museum, says. “From the beginning of the museum’s development, children were involved in the process and we plan to keep them on board as co-curators in the future as well.”

Beyond giving the kids ample space for play and creativity, the museum also tries to teach them about the importance of protecting the planet and biodiversity and fighting climate change.

“We want the children to start thinking about big themes, too, when they come here,” says Kleine-Engel. “When the animals get on board of the ark, they can’t choose who they like or dislike — everybody has to come along in order to survive – nobody should be excluded.”

The museum also educates children about equality and diversity and tries to make them understand that racism, anti-semitism and inequality should have no place on the Ark or in real life, Kleine-Engel adds.

And thus, in a very hands-on way, children can make sure that the cockroaches, rats and snakes also get a spot on Noah’s Ark. They can put them on the lap of a huge orangutan who will keep them from falling into the water.

In the end, all animals get a free ride on the Ark — as well as the children and their parents, who also get free entry into the museum.

Museum news
Meanwhile, Berlin’s Neue Nationalgalerie, an iconic modern art museum designed by Bauhaus pioneer Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, (who was also the architect for Toronto’s Toronto Dominion Centre) reopened to the public this week after a six-year refurbishment of the glass-fronted building.

Germany’s culture minister, Monika Gruetters, said during a celebration ceremony held Saturday that the occasion marked the museum’s “brilliant comeback as a pilgrimage site for lovers of modern art and as a stage for contemporary artists.”

British architect David Chipperfield oversaw the extensive refurbishment of the steel-and-glass structure, a project that cost 140 million euros ($207 million).

Mies van der Rohe was the last of three directors of the Bauhaus school of art and design, which started work in 1919 and was forced to shut down shortly after the Nazis came to power in 1933. He later emigrated to the United States.

The Neue Nationalgalerie was Mies van der Rohe’s only post-World War II building in Germany. It was built in then-West Berlin, not far from the Berlin Wall that divided the city for much of the Cold War. The museum opened in 1968, the year before the architect’s death.

Berlin Mayor Michael Mueller said that, shortly after the Wall was built, the building, with its transparent facade, stood for “progress, the avant-garde and modern, openness and internationality,” news agency dpa reported.

The museum is reopening with three exhibitions: a selection of key works from its collection, a show of works by sculptor Alexander Calder, and another dedicated to film and media artist Rosa Barbra.

Berlin is creating more space to show its contemporary art collection by building a new “Museum of the 20th Century” next door to the Neue Nationalgalerie.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Hotels Unveils Serene Destination in Phuket

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Accor Hotels Unveils Serene Destination in Phuket - TRAVELINDEX - TOP25HOTELS-PHUKETPhuket, Thailand, August 26, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / MGallery Hotel Collection, part of the world-leading Accor group, has unveiled its latest storied offering in Thailand, with the opening of V Villas Phuket – MGallery. Inspired by the lush nature found on the southern tip of this tropical island, the boutique resort is perfect for travellers seeking an enriching escape into unparalleled privacy and bespoke indulgence.

• Discover the Phuket’s Best Luxury Hotels and Prestigious Hotel Awards in Phuket and around the Worlds at Top25Hotels.com

The 19-pool villa resort seamlessly blends a charming landscape, absolute privacy, and captivating Andaman Ocean views for the most memorable island escape

V Villas Phuket – MGallery offers the utmost privacy with a collection of 19 pool villas, offered in one-, three- and four-bedroom configurations. Each villa boasts charming interiors with a natural colour palette, floor-to-ceiling windows, and expansive wooden decks that allow for a seamless blend between indoor and outdoor living. Well-heeled travellers, families, and couples will discover a resort that allows guests to immerse in nature whilst enjoying the seclusion of their villa with spacious bedrooms, vast en suite bathrooms with twin spa baths, private infinity pools, and 24-hour butler service.

Perched on the verdant Ao Yon hillside allowing for vast ocean views, the design of the resort truly embraces the landscape of the property. Villas, restaurants and the spa hover above the trees, blend into the hills, and seamlessly connect with the outdoors. Natural materials, bespoke design and locally inspired art pieces can be admired throughout the resort, with unique stories waiting to be uncovered by engaged explorers who appreciate the original and authentic experiences for which the MGallery collection is renowned.

“The opening of our third MGallery resort in Phuket is testament to our confidence that travellers will continue to seek out more authentic and meaningful experiences. The MGallery collection now boasts more than 100 addresses globally, each one singularly captivating and unique in its own right, for a truly boutique experience. MGallery guests are inspired through their visits to these stylish, thoughtful and decidedly singular hotels, so we are delighted to unveil this new destination in Phuket for those seeking a truly serene experience overlooking the Andaman Sea. We know that the privacy and natural beauty of V Villas Phuket – MGallery will be a drawcard for many explorers as the world reopens,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer of Accor, Southeast Asia, Japan and South Korea.

Gastronomic excellence and breath-taking ocean views make for a memorable dining experience. Yon|Ocean House offers three distinct dining spaces, the highlight being an outdoor terrace surrounded by tropical greenery. The restaurant serves Thai coastal cuisine and European-inspired dishes, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The wine cellar houses an extensive wine list with esteemed labels from around the world. Soaring 55 meters above sea level, AKOYA|Star Lounge is a stunning sunset spot, offering a relaxed rooftop bar experience with gorgeous 360-degree ocean and night sky views, ideal for intimate social gatherings.

The resort’s holistic wellness offerings will enable guests to feel truly revitalized throughout their stay. The treatments at V Villas Spa take inspiration from locally cultivated pearls and the restorative energies of sunlight and nature. Below the resort, pearls have been harvested from the azure waters of Ao Yon Bay for many years, and guests will discover various links to this precious gemstone throughout the resort. The gym features state-of-art fitness equipment, whilst swimmers and sunbathers can relax at the main infinity pool that merges with the seaside horizon. The resort also offers personalised wellness programs and in-villa yoga classes.

Three outstanding wedding venues, including the YON|Ocean House, AKOYA|Star Lounge, Hilltop Cliff and Owner’s Villa, each provide romantic luxury wedding experiences with Andaman ocean views. The resort’s wedding specialists can assist in all arrangements from the pre-wedding party to the ceremony.

• Discover the Phuket’s Best Luxury Hotels and Prestigious Hotel Awards in Phuket and around the Worlds at Top25Hotels.com

“V Villas Phuket – MGallery will offer guests a new way to experience Phuket. Every detail of the resort is in harmony with nature, sunlight, an ocean views. Its Cliffside location will make guests feel like floating above Ao Yon Bay. Our butlers are dedicated to meeting guests’ every desire and making their holiday memorable. We are truly excited to welcome guests for a singular experience rooted in nature and absolute indulgence,” said Pannaphat Lapa, Hotel Manager of V Villas Phuket – MGallery.

V Villas Phuket – MGallery is located above the pristine Ao Yon Beach, which can be reached by foot from the resort via a hidden pathway that winds through the hillside, among the natural landscape and local residences. The resort is located one hours’ drive from Phuket International Airport and a 15-minute drive to the culturally rich Phuket Old Town.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Saudi Tourism Authority Expands Partnership with Aviareps

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Saudi Tourism Authority Expands Partnership with Aviareps - TOURISMSAUDIARABIA.com - TRAVELINDEXMunich, Germany, August 26, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Saudi Tourism Authority has opened a commercial office in Malaysia covering the Southeast Asia region as part of its strategy to engage the tourism trade in key source markets and raise awareness of Saudi, the authentic home of Arabia, as travelers around the world dream of exploring exotic destinations once more.

The destination reopened to vaccinated international visitors at the beginning of August.

STA now has representative offices in eleven markets serving 21 countries, with an eventual goal of having a 15 offices around the world to expand the reach of the Authority’s activities.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority:

“STA is focused on enhancing its ability to deliver a truly global scale offering by investing resources today in the network that will drive our business for the future. We are building an integrated global team of professionals to showcase Saudi’s diverse offering of cultural adventures, world-class heritage sites, and authentic Arabian hospitality.”

The Malaysia office will be responsible for trade and consumer marketing activities, expanding the reach and relevance of Saudi’s tourism offer, and working with tour operators, travel agents, and other industry stakeholders to build awareness and drive conversion in line with STA’s strategy and mission. The Southeast Asia representative office is being set up with the support of the region’s leading aviation & destination marketing representative company, Aviareps Malaysia as its in-market representative covering the Southeast Asia region.

Kelvin Ong, Vice President, Southeast Asia for Aviareps Group:

“Southeast Asian nations have a strong affinity with Saudi as a destination and many of the region’s travelers have already experienced the country’s legendary hospitality while visiting the country on pilgrimage. We have already formed a dedicated STA team based in Malaysia to cover the region.”

Shazlin Ahmad, Country Manager for STA in Southeast Asia:

“Opening a dedicated office to serve this market creates an opportunity to expand the appeal of Saudi as a compelling leisure destination by sharing with travelers the diverse landscapes, bustling cities, abundant attractions, and storied historical sites that make Saudi unique. We are confident that Saudi’s diverse offering will be appealing to all demographics from the region. We have already begun outreach into the Southeast Asia’s tourism trade ecosystem and the response has been very positive. We are actively seeking opportunities to co-invest with partners who are keen to add Saudi as an exciting new destination in their portfolio.”

Since opening its borders to international tourism in September 2019, Saudi rapidly established itself as the fastest-growing tourism destination in the world, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. Despite the global shutdown of leisure tourism in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, STA continued to invest to prepare the destination for a return to normalcy.

In 2020 STA delivered a domestic tourism campaign that saw visitor spend across target destinations between July and September increase by more than 30% compared to the equivalent period the year before.

An international brand awareness campaign launched at the beginning of 2021 extends across 26 countries and 13 languages, with significant investment in outdoor, broadcast, and digital advertising.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority:

“Saudi has a wealth of iconic sites for travelers to experience when borders reopen and we are ready to welcome visitors from around the world. By investing now in brand awareness and in our network of international offices, we are seeking to expand the global reach and relevance of these sites and integrating new ways of thinking and delivering on our mandate.”

To support the international and domestic tourism trade ecosystem, STA is introducing Saudi Expert, a comprehensive digital platform that provides partner companies with data, insights, destination information, and creative assets in real-time.

The new platform is intended to ensure that DMCs, tour operators, and other stakeholders have on-demand access to the information they need to build their business.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority:

“Tourism businesses need to be more agile than ever to respond to sudden changes in the environment. Agility depends on a constant supply of up-to-date information, and our goal is to get that information to our partners almost as soon as we get it ourselves. We are working at pace to help our partners introduce the authentic home of Arabia to more people than ever before.”

About Aviareps
Aviareps is the world’s leading international representation, marketing and communications company for aviation, tourism, hospitality, and food and beverage brands. Founded in Germany in 1994 with the ambition to help clients to step into global markets, the company’s global network now expands around the world to six continents.

The Aviareps service portfolio includes extensive expertise in representation and sales, marketing and communications, business development, IT solutions and financial services. In addition to their well-established General Sales Agent (GSA) services and tourism marketing representation, Aviareps provides more than 250 clients with support in digital marketing, advertising, public relations, crisis communications, social media management, event coordination, sales, web design and more.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WALL TO WALL: Art showcases the spirit of St. Martin.

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As the smallest land mass shared by two countries (just 37 square miles), Saint Martin is home to both the Dutch and their capital of Philipsburg and the French with their capital of Marigot. In 2017 Saint Martin, along with much of the northeastern Caribbean, was hit hard by Hurricane Irma. During this challenging period of physical and economic devastation the St. Martin Wall Art Association was founded to revive the soul of the island and demonstrate the creativity and resilience of the people.

For those fascinated by street art, the artworks created by the Association provide a compelling glimpse of paradise. Located in Marigot, this collection of wall art showcases the creative spirit of the island as well as the startling breadth of the populace’s artistic talent. The large paintings and frescoes use vibrant colours and imagery to inspire viewers. As the artwork is all outside, taking a walking tour of the area constitutes an ideal ‘socially-distanced’ activity.

On the French side of the island, the Hommage Hotel & Residences is one of the most recent canvases for wall art in St. Martin. Its five white towers are the canvas to fantastic wall art found on the grounds of Hommage Hotel & Residences! (Do ask the owner about his Canadian family!)

While appreciating its artistic traditions, visitors to St. Martin will of course also enjoy its beautiful beaches, its vibrant culture and nightlife, the excellent cuisine and shopping.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News