Global Travel News

PATA Partners with Switch Asia to Promote Sustainable Thai Tourism

 500 290 wttc2
By:

PATA Partners with Switch Asia to Promote Sustainable Thai Tourism - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, September 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has partnered with a European Union (EU)-funded TourLink project that recently kicked-off, under the EU SWITCH-ASIA programme.

TourLink is a Thai tourism supply chain initiative, linking EU buyers with Thai tour operators and suppliers, aiming to increase competitive advantage by raising sustainability performance.

Faced with the realities of climate change, systematic sustainability management will be a required mark of quality, safety and professionalism, and a key to doing business with EU outbound tour operators. In the post-COVID-19 tourism landscape, tourism professionals with the skills to deliver positive results for profit, planet and people will be more employable.

TourLink unites the experience, expertise, and energy of Thai-EU sustainable tourism pioneers: the European Centre for Ecological and Agricultural Tourism (ECEAT), Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Thai Eco and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA), and Thai Hotel Association (THA). The partners will work until April 2024 to raise sustainability performance along Thai tourism supply chains and boost market demand for sustainable product choices.

Partners will build the capacity of Thai tour operators and suppliers, such as hotels, transport, and activity providers, to achieve common standards for quality, safety, and sustainability. The outcome will lead to internationally recognised Travelife certification for the suppliers and market benefits for their businesses, as well as showcase Thailand as a leading sustainable tourism destination. TourLink will also improve Thai tourism businesses’ access to Green Finance initiatives and contribute to key challenges of plastic reduction and food waste, and decreasing carbon emissions.

According to TourLink Project Manager, Mr. Peter Richards, “Raising your sustainability performance during this time will help you save money through simple, cost-saving measures; show European B2B business partners that you are professional and reliable, and motivate your staff during the difficult COVID period. Travelife’s sustainability management system can directly link your company to leading EU Tourism Associations and showcase your achievements. Tour operators which engage now can benefit from free membership for 2021-22, use Travelife’s online platform, criteria, training tools and tips; and receive personal coaching to help you to meet the standards.”

PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera echoes this sentiment, adding, “PATA is focussed on supporting the industry recovery with tangible in-market projects that can demonstrate practical, responsible solutions. Our goal is to develop and/or share business models that combine sustainability with profitability. Creating strong sustainability development plans will bring competitive advantage and generate long-term success for your business.”

The TourLink team is reaching out to collaborate with other public and private sector organisations. One exciting opportunity is collaboration with the highly innovative Thailand Carbon Balance project, managed by TEATA, DASTA, TGO, TCEB and the Thai Chamber of Commerce. This cooperation can enable an end-to-end EU-Thai tourism supply chain approach towards carbon calculation, management, and offsetting (carbon credits).

PATA is also building on their pioneering BUFFET Toolkit, which provides step by step guidelines for reducing food waste, and Plastic Free Toolkit for Tour Operators to develop new standards, tools and innovative training which will help Thai tourism professionals to harness sustainability as an opportunity for well-paid work during COVID-19 recovery.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Kenya Airways Signs Strategic Alliance with South African Airways

 500 265 wttc2
By:

Kenya Airways Signs Strategic Alliance with South African AirwaysNairobi, Kenya, September 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Kenya’s national carrier Kenya Airways (KQ) and South Africa Airways (SAA) have entered a memorandum of cooperation with a longer-term view to co-starting a Pan-African Airline Group that in time will enhance mutual growth potential between the two carriers.

• For a complete travel guide on Magical Kenya, Where Safari was Born, go to VisitKenya.com

– Kenya Airways (KQ) and South Africa Airways (SAA) have signed a memorandum of cooperation whose long-term objective is to form a Pan African airline.

– At this initial stage, it is not a merger but a partnership that seeks to re-organise KQ and SAA assets into an ecosystem that will make the South African and Kenyan aviation sector more competitive.

This cooperation aligns with KQ’s core purpose, Contributing to the sustainable development of Africa. will be based on mutual benefits. These include strategic positioning in global aviation, diversifying earning streams, and reinforcing regional partnership in Africa through diplomatic and commercial relations. This will see an increase in passenger traffic, cargo opportunities, and general trade by taking advantage of strengths in South Africa, Kenya, and Africa.

Mr. Allan Kilavuka, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the partnership’s significance in turning around the fortunes of both KQ and SAA. The future of aviation and its long-term sustenance is hinged on cooperation. KQ and SAA collaboration will enhance customer benefits by availing a larger combined passenger and Cargo network, fostering the exchange of expertise, innovation, best practice, and adopting home-grown organic solutions to technical and operational challenges.

KQ remains committed to its financial turnaround strategy. The pursuit of partnerships is one of the core strategic pillars that shall transform the airline by ensuring its financial viability while offering world class services in Africa and the world.

SAA’s Interim CEO Thomas Kgokolo noted that “This cooperation, which includes demand recovery and other cost containment strategies, will aid recovery of both carriers in an increasingly competitive African airline environment. It will also enhance related Kenya and South Africa tourism circuits, which sectors account for significant portions of respective country growth domestic product, benefiting from at least two attractive hubs in Johannesburg, Nairobi and possibly Cape Town. KQ and SAA, as iconic airline brands of Africa’s biggest and vibrant economies, in East Africa and Southern Africa respectively, are at the precipice of what could be Africa’s formidable Pan African airline.’’

The respective Kenyan and South African governments recognise KQ and SAA as strategic national assets. They are committed to providing an operating environment that will allow for commercial agility and flexibility, shared access to domestic and international markets for the carriers’ mutual benefit.

Kgokolo adds that collaboration will also assist both airlines in the current and post-pandemic business and travel environment. This he says involves, joint recovery strategies and other cost containment strategies that will aid recovery of both carriers in an increasing competitive African airline environment. This agreement does not offer an exclusivity that precludes either of the airlines from pursuing commercial co-operation with other carriers within the current route network strategy.

As a key driver of economic growth, the aviation sector enables quick movement of passengers and cargo, leading to increased economic activity, generating direct and indirect employment. The recognition of this significance to economic development is the impetus behind the cooperation. This cooperation also seeks to address the significant contraction witnessed in the history of the air transport market in the wake of COVID-19. The African air transport market is estimated to be 50% of 2019 (pre-COVID-19), and the situation is expected to last for at least three years.

About Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways, a member of the Sky Team Alliance, is a leading African airline currently flying to 46 destinations worldwide, 34 of which are in Africa. It continues to modernize its fleet with its 32 aircraft being some of the youngest in Africa. This includes its flagship B787 Dreamliner aircraft. The on-board service is renowned and the lie-flat business class seat on the wide-body aircraft is consistently voted among the world’s top 10. Kenya Airways takes pride for being in the forefront of connecting Africa to the World and the World to Africa through its hub at the new ultra -modern Terminal 1A at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.

• For a complete travel guide on Magical Kenya, Where Safari was Born, go to VisitKenya.com

About South Africa Airways
South Africa Airways (SAA) began operations on 1 February 1934. SAA, is a leading carrier in Africa, serving regional destinations between Johannesburg and five African capitals – Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka, and Maputo and 1 domestic route between Johannesburg and Cape Town. It is a member of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance. SAA’s core business is the provision of passenger airline and cargo transport services together with related services, which are provided through SAA and its wholly owned subsidiaries: SAA Technical (SAAT), a world class maintenance facility and Air Chefs, the catering entity of SAA. SAAT has particularly been successful in the delivery of high quality maintenance services such as; major airframe checks; engine overhaul; mechanical components; avionics and line maintenance. From our first flight in 1934, SAA have welcomed the world to South Africa by showing off the warm generous heart of the country. The airline has more than 80 years of excellence and innovation to draw on.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Siam Piwat Benchmarks MICE Industry with Virtual Inspection Solution

 500 306 wttc2
By:

Siam Piwat Benchmarks MICE Industry with Virtual Inspection Solution - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, September 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Siam Piwat is the owner and operator of global retail destinations – Siam Paragon, Siam Center and Siam Discovery, and joint venture partners of ICONSIAM and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok. The company also founded Siam Alliances Management, a leader of world-class convention and event establishment. Siam Piwat recently set a new benchmark for the event organizing and MICE (Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions, Exhibitions) industry with ‘Virtual Inspection’ and ‘Online Reservation’ solutions. The digital services cater to the new-normal lifestyle and facilitate event professionals from across the globe with virtual venue tour and convenient online reservation.

– Siam Piwat launches “Virtual Inspection” and “Online Reservation” for its convention spaces, a MICE industry benchmark.

– Offering absolute exhibition and event destinations, now event organizers from across the globe can virtually inspect the convention spaces and conveniently make instant online reservation.

Mr.Talun Theng, Managing Director of Siam Alliance Management Co., Ltd. said “Siam Piwat, as a retail leader, we pride ourselves as ‘the ICON of Innovative Lifestyle’. Our business strategies focus on Co-creation and Creating Shared Values. Creativity is key to this business model as well as the Co-creation between forward-thinkers from various industries to create shared values that benefit people at large, the society and the country. For the exhibition and conventional venue business, Siam Alliance Management (SAM) is operating Bangkok’s prime event spaces including Royal Paragon Hall on the 5 Floor of Siam Paragon Shopping Center and True Icon Hall on the 7 Floor of ICONSIAM. SAM is now the first in Asia to launch the cutting-edge technology, for its site ‘Virtual Inspection’ and ‘Online Reservation.’

Covid-19 has presented challenges to mostly all businesses, and MICE industry is no exception. Now that the situation seems to be recovering, the world of MICE business has started to pick up. European countries and the US have started to allow domestic events and international scale conference like the ASEAN Summit is scheduled to take place in Cambodia.

For Thailand, as leader of convention venue business, SAM is turning the global resilience into business opportunities. The launch of our new solutions ‘Virtual Inspection’ and ‘Online Reservation,’ offers immersive and 360◦ venue scouting experience to give event organizers a full access to the venue plus all relevant information such as sizing, dimensions, floor-to-ceiling height, capacity for seated and standing events. Facilities, equipment, light and sound system are also listed to best serve different preferences. The ‘Online Reservation,’ enables event professionals to check the venue availability and make their reservation instantly.

This innovative service reinforces Siam Piwat’s as The ICON of Innovative Lifestyle. The company has continuously evolved to come up with business innovations that are relevant to the world’s new normalcy. This also marks the new innovations for conventional hall industry.

“We are ever evolving to create new business innovation to best serve this digital era. Siam Alliance Management thrives forward with four core business pillars including Connection Enhancement – optimize its business networks that include government agencies and leading private organizations. Collaboration with Partners to together succeed through new business solutions and create shared values. Communication & action, providing clear communication, effective and speedy service for best customer satisfaction and Create Events, to offer new events and activities to cater to the interest of customers in this new era,” added Talun.

The government business resilience has shown a great recovery sign for MICE business. Demands have poured in for future events. From today to June 2025, our convention halls have secured over 60% booking.

The Virtual Inspection launch for SAM is a major move for Siam Piwat as the Icon of Innovative Lifestyle. It will be a game-changer for MICE business to fully tap into the digital-dominant world. It also brings pride to Thailand and to leverage MICE business standard,” concluded Mr.Talun.

About Royal Paragon Hall
The Royal Paragon Hall is strategically located on the 5 Floor of the Siam Paragon Shopping Center, in the heart of Bangkok and has been a key player in Thailand’s MICE industry. Royal Paragon Hall is conveniently accessible via the BTS sky train and over 4,000 indoor parking space eligible. With a total space of 12,000 square meters, the space suits all types functions imaginable and can be divided for multi-purpose use such as exhibition, convention, receptions and entertainment events.

Bangkok has played a leading role in Asia Pacific’s MICE business. Growing business development and being a part of Asean Economics Community (AEC) drives expansion for convention center business. Located in the heart of Bangkok, Royal Paragon Hall has been a epitome of event venue in ASEAN and equipped with professional services and first-rate facilities.

About TRUE ICON HALL
TRUE ICON HALL is Asia’s revolutionary stage of iconic MICEntertainment venue. Located on the 7th Floor of ICONSIAM, the mega-development project recognized worldwide as a global landmark on the bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, one of the world’s most preferred destinations.​

TRUE ICON HALL is a true convergence of innovative design and most advanced technology best suitable for all arrays of world-class meetings, conventions, exhibitions, entertainment, and special events. TRUE ICON HALL is the best of its kind MICE and entertainment solutions and top-notch facilities that can adeptly accommodate ever-shifting needs of the thriving MICE and entertainment industry worldwide. It is proud to be the first and only MICE and entertainment venue in Thailand that features 2,700 automatic retractable seating, fully integrated in-seat USB power solutions and state-of-the-art light and sound systems.​

TRUE ICON HALL spans a gross area of 12,000 square meters and is home to 2 main halls that take up 2,775 square meters in total and 1,200-square meter foyer called Suralai Hall that overlooks the Chao Phraya River. These innovative halls are fully equipped with the most efficient ultra-high-speed internet True Gigatex Fiber and double operable walls to make divided halls completely soundproof. It also features 14 meeting rooms for 20 to 200 seats and can be flexibly combinable up to 520 theatre-style seatings.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Partners with Didier Drogba to Build Opportunities for African Youth

 500 299 wttc2
By:

UNWTO Partners with Didier Drogba to Build Opportunities for African Youth - TRAVELINDEXAbidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, September 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and the Didier Drogba Foundation have teamed up to highlight the potential of African youth and ensure that both tourism and sport deliver on their potential to provide opportunities for all.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Against the backdrop of World Tourism Day 2021 – held under the theme of “Tourism for Inclusive Development” – the United Nations specialized agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the former Chelsea and Côte d’Ivoire footballer.

Didier Drogba is one of the most celebrated and decorated athletes of this century, and the work of the Didier Drogba Foundation is true to the goals of UNWTO

The agreement recognizes that both sport and tourism can play a key role in advancing many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including through promoting cooperation and understanding, as well as through creating frameworks for inclusive economic growth. It also recognizes the shared goals and values of both UNWTO and the Foundation.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Didier Drogba is one of the most celebrated and decorated athletes of this century, and the work of the Didier Drogba Foundation is true to the goals of UNWTO – to provide opportunity to the women and youth of Africa and build a better future for the continent.”

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Didier Drogba was appointed a UNWTO Ambassador for Responsible Tourism in October 2019. In this role, he provides a bridge between tourism and sport – both sectors with the power to bring people together and promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hot Take: A New Complimentary Hotel Breakfast Worth Waking up for at Marriott Bonvoy’s Select Brands

 800 600 wttc2
By:
Tomato, Kale and Feta Egg White Frittata
BurkleHagen Photography
Plain Yogurt with Granola, Walnuts and Blueberry Compote
BurkleHagen Photography
Sausage, Egg and Cheese on a Whole Wheat Bagel
BurkleHagen Photography

With travelers back on the road, today, Marriott Bonvoy unveils a new complimentary hot breakfast program across four brands within its portfolio: Residence Inn by Marriott, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Fairfield by Marriott, and TownePlace Suites by Marriott. Beginning in October at a limited number of hotels, the refreshed breakfast will feature a delicious morning menu that caters to consumers’ tastes for highly customizable breakfast items, from hot sandwiches with a range of toppings to build-your-own bowls piled high with their favorite ingredients. Guests can fuel up for the day with a deeply aromatic, bespoke-branded Rainforest Certified Coffee™.

“Breakfast has long been a celebrated experience during a hotel stay – a moment to gather before exploring a destination or a reliable grab-and-go kickstart to the day,” said Diane Mayer, Vice President & Global Brand Manager for Classic Select Brands. “Through extensive consumer insights, we recognize that our guests want to wake up to a nutritious and energizing breakfast made with quality ingredients. We are pleased to introduce our new complimentary breakfast that offers mouthwatering, customizable options with an eye towards sustainability.”

In a survey conducted by Marriott [1], 75% of guests preferred a hot breakfast buffet over continental, further enhanced by choice between categories, quality, and variety within categories. Based on the data, 67% of guests rank availability of ‘special diet options’ as being extremely important and a majority (72%) feel comfortable eating at a buffet again. Research also shows that the #1 most important breakfast item is fresh coffee or tea, followed by hot food offerings. In response to the research, Marriott thoughtfully integrated all these attributes into its new breakfast experience to exceed guest expectations.

Quality Ingredients
The complimentary hot breakfast will offer high-quality ingredients with specialty menu items ideal for the modern traveler seeking fresh flavors and sustenance in a casual environment. Choose from a selection of warm breakfast sandwiches; spinach and cheese crustless quiche; sausage, egg and cheese on a whole-wheat bagel; or a jalapeno cheddar baked soufflé. Additionally, with fresh fruit and gluten-free options, guests can wake up and start their day feeling nourished and satiated.

Make it Your Own
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to a satisfying morning meal. The new breakfast program will offer build-your-own breakfast bowls featuring customizable ingredients to fulfill any craving, whether healthy or indulgent. Start with a base of yogurt, oatmeal or cereal, then add layers of granola, pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes and more. Guests can also personalize their own hot sandwiches with a variety of toppings and sauces, from relish and salsa to Sriracha and Cholula.

Make a Difference
Our small choices can make a big impact, and the need to be good stewards of the world and to protect our environment is more important than ever. The new breakfast will feature key ingredients that are responsibly sourced including cage-free eggs, sustainably raised pork, and 100% certified coffee that will contribute to a better future.

The complimentary hot breakfast buffet will launch in October in a select number of hotels and be widely rolled out across nearly 3,000 hotels throughout the winter at all Residence Inn, Fairfield by Marriott, SpringHill Suites, and TownePlace Suites properties in the United States. Shaped by in-depth consumer research, current trends and guest feedback, the newly conceptualized breakfast exemplifies Marriott’s continued innovation of the contemporary guest experience within its hotels.

[1] US+CAN: Qualitative and quantitative research, QSR trends with target travelers, 800+ Surveyed, 25 1:1 Interviews, 8 panelists, 400+ hours of guest engagement.

About Residence Inn by Marriott
Residence Inn by Marriott is the global leader in the longer stays lodging segment with more than 860 properties in 17 countries and territories. Guests have the freedom to travel the way they live with Residence Inn’s spacious suites featuring distinct living, working, and sleeping spaces. Travelers can maximize their time and thrive while on the road with fully equipped kitchens in each suite, grocery delivery service, 24/7 grab-and-go markets and complimentary breakfast. The warm and inviting public spaces feature modern residential design allowing guests to feel right at home, paired with the added amenities of upscale hotel living. Residence Inn 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.com. For more information or reservations, visit residence-inn.marriott.com.

About SpringHill Suites by Marriott
SpringHill Suites by Marriott is the largest all-suites upscale hotel brand that is refreshingly different. With stylish surroundings that are beyond the ordinary at over 500 properties across the U.S. and Canada, guests are provided thoughtful, focused service in an uplifting atmosphere. Each spacious suite features an open, airy design that puts guests at ease, with separate living and sleeping areas. At SpringHill Suites, travelers can escape their routines and enjoy their time away. SpringHill Suites 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.com. For more information or reservations, visit www.springhillsuites.com.

About Fairfield by Marriott
Fairfield by Marriott was founded on the principles of trusted service and warm, friendly hospitality inspired by its unique heritage as the namesake of the Marriott family retreat, the Fairfield Farm. Its contemporary, uplifting design provides an effortless experience for guests to maintain their routines while on the road. Evoking the feelings of calming simplicity, Fairfield offers thoughtfully designed guestrooms and suites that provide separate quality living, working and sleeping areas. With over 1,150 properties in 13 countries and territories, Fairfield 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.com. For more information or reservations, visit Fairfield.marriott.com.

About TownePlace Suites by Marriott
TownePlace Suites by Marriott is an award-winning, all-suites hotel brand ideal for travelers who want to make the most out of longer stays. With over 460 properties across the U.S. and Canada, the brand’s simple yet innovative design, features personal touches and clever details that also provide a sense of calm and comfort. Offering studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, TownePlace Suites helps guests settle in and feel right at home. For more information or reservations, visit www.towneplacesuites.com. TownePlace Suites 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.com.

Media Contact
Christine Lin
Marriott International
Christine.Lin@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Banyan Tree Marks Anniversary with Resort Credit Offers

 799 533 wttc2
By:

Banyan Tree Marks Anniversary with Resort Credit Offers - TRAVELINDEXKoh Samui, Thailand, September 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / One of Southeast Asia’s most beloved hotel groups, Banyan Tree, is celebrating its 27th anniversary with a range of value-driven offers across more than 40 properties worldwide.

In Thailand, the group’s luxury resorts in Koh Samui and Krabi provide daily credit vouchers to guests, which can be used at all on-site restaurants and spas to the tune of 2,000 baht (US$60) and 3,000 baht ($90) respectively.

Banyan Tree Samui will also include a complimentary round-trip airport transfer for guests.

The “Rediscover the World” promotion applies to bookings at all Banyan Tree hotels between 7 September and 15 October 2021; however, stays at the resorts can be taken any time until 7 September 2022 at Banyan Tree Samui, and until 31 July 2022 at Banyan Tree Krabi.

Founded by Singaporeans KP Ho and his wife Claire Chang, Banyan Tree’s foundations are deeply rooted in Thailand where they opened their first hotel back in 1994. However, the original site for their dream resort in Phuket was discovered to be sitting upon an abandoned tin mine and the soil was too toxic to support development. Unperturbed, the couple embarked on a program of regeneration, planting 7,000 trees and stimulating the growth of indigenous plants and flora.

Twenty-seven years later, the Banyan Tree brand has become synonymous with environmental awareness and wellbeing, winning numerous awards and adhering to the highest principles of sustainability.

Banyan Tree Krabi is the latest in the group’s lush tropical resorts to open in Thailand, launching in October 2020 despite the challenges of the covid pandemic. Situated at tranquil Tubkaek Beach, a 45-minute drive from Krabi International Airport, the new resort is flanked by nature — it tiers into a verdant forested landscape while facing Than Bok Khorani National Marine Park and its famous towering limestone cliffs, which jut from the Andaman Sea, one of Thailand’s most iconic and idyllic postcard images.

Banyan Tree Krabi has 72 suites and villas, each of which has its own private infinity pool and jet pool. Facilities at the hotel include two restaurants, a beach bar, a kids’ club, a fitness center, a meeting center, an elevated outdoor wedding deck, and in keeping with Banyan Tree’s global wellbeing branding — a rainforest-themed spa.

Perhaps one of Thailand’s most recognizable hotels for its picture-postcard location is Banyan Tree Samui, which opened in 2010. The resort is nestled into a tropical hillside overlooking a cove of white-sanded beach and sapphire sea, and each of the 88 villas on the lush 38-acre property boasts a private 35-sqm infinity pool.

Banyan Tree Samui was a Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Winner in 2020, and has consistently been voted one of the top resorts in Asia.

Both Banyan Tree Samui and Banyan Tree Krabi typify the brand by their atmosphere of “Thai-ness”. The signature Saffron Restaurant, available at either hotel, offers a menu of classic Thai cuisine and magnificent sea views, while the spas employ local Thai herbs in their massage products.

Banyan Tree’s design team has accentuated the ambience of luxury at each resort with Siamese architectural aspects such as pitched ceilings and Buddhist temple-shaped rooftops, as well as traditional Thai fabrics and artwork in the decor.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Carlton Bangkok Welcomes You Back

 1080 670 wttc2
By:

To celebrate our hotel reopening on 1st October 2021, we’re offering an amazing Welcome Back promotion of only THB 1,001++ per night.

Book your stay now as this amazing offer is limited to only 1,001 room nights!

This outstanding package includes the following:

  • 1-night stay in a Deluxe Room (room only)
  • 20% off food and beverage in all outlets (excludes promotions, happy hour, wine & spirits by the bottle
  • A special a la carte breakfast price of THB 300++ per person (usually THB 450++)
  • 24-hour stay (check-in from 10:00 am)

For further information or reservations, please contact +66 2 090 7888 or Email: reservations@carltonhotel.co.th

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

World Tourism Day 2021 Inclusive Growth at Centre of Tourism Restart

 500 272 wttc2
By:

World Tourism Day 2021 Inclusive Growth at Centre of Tourism Restart - TRAVELINDEXAbidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, September 27, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Global tourism has reaffirmed its commitment to making the sector a pillar of inclusive growth. At the official World Tourism Day 2021 celebrations in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, political and business leaders united behind a common message of solidarity and determination to ‘leave nobody behind’ as tourism restarts and grows back.

Prime Minister Patrick Achi and Minister of Tourism Siandou Fofana welcomed international delegates, signalling Cote d’Ivoire’s firm support of tourism and Tourism Ministers from 12 countries, the biggest Ministerial participation for an official World Tourism Day celebration. The day featured 1,500 participants, including representatives of international organizations and the private sector.

“Showing tourism’s human face”

Commitment to inclusive growth so that tourism’s restart brings hope for millions worldwide and ensures that everyone who has a stake in tourism also has a say in its future

• For a comprehensive travel guide on the Côte d’Ivoire, Ivory Coast, and Africa go to cotedivoiretourisme.com

The Prime Minister said that “Cote d’Ivoire is proud to host a World Tourism Day like no other. It is important that we realign tourism so the sector meets the hopes and expectations of people. Tourism is a key sector for Cote d’Ivoire’s growth and development. And the right path for Cote d’Ivoire is also the right path for all of Africa, using tourism as a locomotion to drive our economies forward and create jobs for women and youth.” Minister of Tourism Siandou Fofana added that World Tourism Day 2021 “showed the human face of tourism,” stressing the sector’s unique ability to lead recovery from the impacts of the pandemic, in Africa and worldwide.

Innovation, investments and inclusion

Ministers and experts explored how the pledge to drive inclusive growth can be achieved. The importance of innovation, targeted investments and of strengthened collaboration between public and private sectors was made clear. The speakers also underscored the need for inclusive policymaking as tourism slowly returns and looks to the future.

Opening the day, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stressed the sector’s “commitment to inclusive growth so that tourism’s restart brings hope for millions worldwide and ensures that everyone who has a stake in tourism also has a say in its future”.

A future built around shared values

In addition to recognising the challenges of the present, World Tourism Day also looked to the future. In Abidjan, “The Future of Africa” focused on the potential of the continent’s youth as well as its innovators and entrepreneurs. Against the backdrop of World Tourism Day, UNWTO signed two Memorandums of Understanding, reflecting the broad scope of tourism’s reach and relevance. The Didier Drogba Foundation, chaired by one of Africa’s most-recognized and celebrated athletes, agreed to actively commit to UNWTO’s goals and values, above all to providing opportunities for African youth and those living in rural communities. Stressing the importance of tourism as a driver of opportunity for the continent, Channels TV of Nigeria joined as a new UNWTO media partner and will now actively incorporate the theme of tourism for development within its editorial commitments.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on the Côte d’Ivoire, Ivory Coast, and Africa go to cotedivoiretourisme.com

Underscoring UNWTO’s leadership in uniting all of the tourism sector, its Affiliate Members also met in Abidjan, bringing together African businesses as well as civil society leaders, academics and destination management organizations. The side event showcased the benefits of being part of the global Affiliate Members Network and the technical support and networking opportunities available through being part of UNWTO’s work.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Leaders Urged to Shape Sustainable and Inclusive Future Together

 500 301 wttc2
By:

Leaders Urged to Shape Sustainable and Inclusive Future Together - TRAVELINDEXGeneva, Switzerland, September 28, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Economic Forum’s fifth Sustainable Development Impact Summit was brought to a close today by Børge Brende, President of the World Economic Forum. Calling climate change “one of the most urgent challenges of our lifetime” he thanked the more than 2,300 participants for their work to move projects forward across the more than 100 sessions.

“Exiting the pandemic stronger than we entered it can only happen if stakeholders work together,” he said. “Important strides were made these past four days that give me so much hope – it has truly been an impact summit. I am confident that if we continue to raise our ambition and work together, we can shape a more inclusive and sustainable future.”

In his closing remarks, Brende spoke of the need to share know-how, partner on innovation and coordinate on advancing global priorities.

COP26 in Glasgow and the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2022 in Davos-Klosters will be focal points for leaders to show impact and demonstrate how they are moving towards global goals.

The Sustainable Development Impact Summit was designed around four pillars: Revitalizing Economies; Advancing an Inclusive Recovery; Scaling up Climate Action; and Shaping Future Food Systems. Here are the key outcomes:

– A little over two years ago, the Forum committed to developing a set of universal environmental, social and governance (ESG) metrics to help companies practice stakeholder capitalism. Over 50 companies are now using these Stakeholder Capitalism Metrics and over 100 support the initiative worldwide.
– The EDISON Alliance committed to building affordable digital access to healthcare, finance and education for 1 billion people by 2025.
– Airlines, airports, fuel suppliers and other industry stakeholders aim for 10% sustainable aviation fuel by 2030 to help one of the most carbon-heavy sectors get to net-zero by 2050.
– Some 150 organizations and industry leaders signed a Call to Action urging governments to enable a full decarbonization of shipping by 2050.
– The Partnership for Global LGBTI Equality launched a self-assessment tool to help companies identify actions to meet UN standards of conduct.
– The Forum’s Partnering for Racial Justice in Business Coalition now comprises 60 organizations, representing over 7 million employees.
– Alongside the first ever UN Food Systems Summit, the Forum’s Food Systems team announced the Digital Food Systems Coalition, the 100 Million Farmers platform to help develop a more inclusive and sustainable food system for all and co-hosted the innovation track with Mercy Corps.
– Over 20 companies have pledged to conserve, restore and grow more than 2.5 billion trees in over 40 countries as part of the 1t.org global pledge process.
– The Forum’s Scale360 project, which creates products with multiple lifecycles instead of single use, expanded from two to 20 countries.
– Cambodia established a Closing the Skills Gap Accelerator, joining a global network of 11 countries addressing skills gaps and the future of work.
– Finland joined the Global Learning Network to contribute its expertise in closing education gaps.
– The Food Action Alliance has expanded to 20 countries and is working on local and national flagships that improve sustainability and inclusivity.
– The Forum’s innovation platform, UpLink, announced that its innovators helped advance projects that captured 39 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, brought safe drinking water to 2.7 million people and created 133,000 jobs. It also announced four new cohorts and two new challenges.
– The Forum’s Friends of Ocean Action launched the Blue Food Partnership and two other initiatives to strengthen ocean resilience.
– The Mangroves Working Group will conserve and restore these forests by building a “blue” carbon market.
– Pakistan became the latest country to step-up in the fight against plastic pollution, joining Indonesia, Ghana, Nigeria and Viet Nam in the Global Plastic Action Partnership.
– The New Generation Industry Leaders community will transform perceptions around industrial companies and inspire new generations to seek work in industrial sectors.
– Cities have a new free resource to help them reduce emissions faster and make urban life more climate-friendly, courtesy of the Net-Zero Carbon Cities project.
– The new Global Health Equity Network will work across public and private sectors to boost access to health and well-being initiatives.
– The Forum played a critical role with the Race to Zero Coalition in mobilizing almost 30% of the health sector to commit to net-zero targets by 2050.
– The Lung Ambition Alliance and the Forum launched the Global Lung Cancer Collaboration to eliminate the disease and ensure the future sustainability of health systems.

Sustainable Development Impact Summit
The meeting brought together global leaders from business, government, and civil society under the theme, Shaping an Equitable, Inclusive and Sustainable Recovery. It focused on new technologies, policies and partnerships to advance cooperation, accelerate progress and highlight tangible solutions to our global challenges.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SUNx Malta Signs The Glasgow Tourism Declaration

 500 304 wttc2
By:

SUNx Malta Signs The Glasgow Tourism Declaration - TRAVELINDEXValletta, Malta, September 28, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Glasgow Tourism Declaration is a great start to improve sector climate response, and we are pleased to be an early signatory. It moves in the right direction, but it has to go further and it has to go faster. It builds on previous UNWTO Tourism & Climate Declarations in Djerba in 2003 and Davos in 2007. All good and well intentioned, but now we need much more to help to avert the “Code Red” Climate Crisis that all UN states are facing.

To fully respond to the science and the extreme weather calamities around the world we need a DASH-2-Zero if we are to cross the finishing line in time. The Glasgow goal of a Net Carbon Zero travel industry by 2050 should shift to 2030, with a hard stop of all greenhouse gas emissions (carbon, nitrogen, sulphur, and methane compounds) by 2050. This will be our focus.

What is very positive is the emphasis on measurement and recorded reduction in emissions by companies and communities and we stand ready to support the Glasgow process with the SUNx Malta Climate Friendly Travel Registry, which is linked directly to the main UN Global Climate Action Portal.

About SUNx Malta
SUNx is an EU based, not-for-profit organisation, established as a legacy for Maurice Strong, climate and sustainability pioneer and partnered with the government of Malta.

SUNx Malta created the ‘Green & Clean, Climate Friendly Travel System’ which is designed to help Travel & Tourism companies and communities transform to the new Climate Economy. The programme is based on reducing carbon, meeting Sustainable Development Goals, and matching the Paris 1.5C trajectory. It is action and education focused – supporting today’s companies and communities to deliver on their climate ambitions and encouraging tomorrow’s young leaders to prepare for rewarding careers across the travel sector. Its co-founder and President is Professor Geoffrey Lipman.

SUNx Malta is calling for a DASH-2-Zero for the influential Travel & Tourism sector. Pushing for further action faster. Yes, to Net Zero Carbon, but by 2030 and a commitment to NO Greenhouse gases by 2050. DASH means Declare & Act with Support & Hope. SUNx Malta is training 100,000 young Strong Climate Champions across all UN States by 2030. Together with our Sustainable Development Goal (SDG-17) partners we are offering a UNFCCC linked Registry of Accelerated Ambition and support for Climate Friendly companies and communities.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News