Global Travel News

THE WRITE STUFF: Park Hyatt Toronto set for September return

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One of Toronto’s best-known hotels, the Park Hyatt, is set to open its doors again in September after being closed for nearly four years. Fully restored, the famed luxury property promises a return to former glory with a distinctive nod to Canadian heritage, art deco, and especially literature.

Located at Bloor Street and Avenue Road in Yorkville, across the street from the Royal Ontario Museum and University of Toronto, the hotel opened as the Park Plaza in 1936, before joining the Hyatt fold in 1999. Considered past its prime and surpassed by the neighbouring Four Seasons, which itself had opened a new flagship property a block from its original location in 2012, it closed for renovations in 2017.

In 2021, the re-imagined Park Hyatt Toronto will introduce luxury, sophistication, and glamour courtesy of noted designer Alessandro Munge of Studio Munge, who drew inspiration from Canada’s striking seasons and natural landscapes.

A former haunt for the literary set in the city, the hotel will also be rooted in celebrating the sophistication of the arts, its “historical significance as a gathering spot for great minds,” and the amazing views of the Toronto skyline.

For example, the iconic 17th-floor cocktail bar, familiar to Torontonians and international travellers alike, will be known as the “Writers Room,” paying homage to the history of literary legends that patronized the hotel in the past, such as Margaret Attwood, Mordecai Richler, and Hugh Garner.

The hotel will announce a new culinary destination, influenced by the spirit of Toronto’s vibrant arts and culture scene, in the coming weeks.

The restoration of the hotel comes as part of a wider redevelopment of the site into a mixed-use destination by its owner, Oxford Properties. In addition to Park Hyatt Toronto guest suites, the redevelopment has created 65 luxury rental apartments in the heritage-designated south tower, which has been completely restored and retained, making it one of the largest heritage restoration projects in Canada.

The complex will also feature 6,100 sq. m. of prime retail over two floors in the restored south tower with 30 m. of frontage along each of Bloor Street and Avenue Road.

“We felt a deep sense of obligation to create a destination that not only respects and embraces Park Hyatt Toronto’s storied history, but one that also reflects Toronto’s emergence as a truly global city,” says Oxford Properties head of hotels, Tyler Seaman. “This project is a celebration of the best of Canada. It’s reflected in its design palette, which is influenced by the Group of Seven, the curated art on display, and right down to the materials we used including limestone-flooring from Owen Sound (Ont.) It will be one of the best hotel experiences in Canada and the finest address in the city to live at.”

The hotel will feature a significant permanent art collection highlighting spectacular pieces from noteworthy Canadian and indigenous artists. The lobby features a large-scale tapestry designed by Canadian artist Shannon Bool, while the 219 guest rooms – including 40 luxurious suites – will balance residential comfort with contemporary design.

A spa and wellness destination will host personalized treatments with a collection of highly curated relaxation services to treat the body and calm the mind.

Park Hyatt currently operates 45 hotels around the globe, with destination ranging from Abu Dhabi to Zurich, Switzerland.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP:July 12-16, 2021

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American visitors may soon be welcome in Canada, cruise ships can return after Nov. 1, Ireland eases requirements for Canadians, and big plans from Porter Airlines highlight last week’s notable travel industry news.

NEWS

The federal government is aiming to re-open the US border to allow fully vaccinated US citizens into Canada again by as early as mid-August. And if the current vaccination rate remains on its upward trajectory, fully vaccinated travellers from around the world could begin arriving by early September as well, Justin Trudeau says.

The federal government is offering easy financing for the country’s beleaguered tourism operators; this includes a mix of non-repayable grants of up to $100,000 or no-interest loans of up to $500,000 to finance capital improvements.

The Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) reports that Jet Airways, operating out of Mumbai, India, and which suspended operations effective April 17, 2019, became officially insolvent on June 22 when the company was sold (asset purchase only. The new company will operate as Jet Airways 2.0. Consumers who purchased Jet Airways travel services from an Ontario-registered travel agency or website and did not receive their travel services due to the cessation of the airline may file a claim from the Ontario Travel Industry Compensation Fund for reimbursement via TICO. The claim deadline is Dec. 23, 2021.

RE-OPENING/RE-START

Starting today (July 19), Ireland begins welcoming visitors from Canada who have valid proof of vaccination. For those that are fully vaccinated, no travel-related testing or quarantine is necessary.

The federal government has lifted the prohibition on cruise ships operating in Canadian waters Nov. 1, effectively paving the way for a return to cruising in 2022. Operators will be required to fully comply with public health requirements.

Carnegie Hall in New York will resume performances in October following a 1-1/2-year closure caused by the coronavirus pandemic, but with a limited schedule of recitals and small ensembles until large orchestras return in January. The Hall initially intended to open the season with a virtual gala, but planning is now underway for a live opening concert at full capacity.

BY THE NUMBERS

The latest figures from IATA show that demand at North American carriers in May demand fell 74.4% compared to the 2019 period, an improvement over the 77.6% decline in April versus two years ago. Capacity sagged 58.5%, and load factor dropped 32.2 percentage points to 51.7%. (Due to the pandemic, IATA does not use 2020 figures as a basis of normality).

AIR

Toronto-based airline Porter Airlines says it will introduce up to 80 state-of-the-art Embraer E195-E2 aircraft into its fleet starting in the second half of 2022. The planes, which will notably operate from Toronto Pearson instead of the airline’s traditional home at Billy Bishop island airport, have transcontinental range, which will enable Porter to reach potential markets coast to coast in Canada, along with destinations in the US, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

The new airline Italia Trasporto Aereo (ITA), or Italy Air Transport, which is being created to replace the long financially ailing Alitalia will take off on Oct. 15 with its first flights. Precisely what name or logo will be on the new airline’s planes has not yet been determined

United Airlines is ordering 200 Boeing Max jets and 70 Airbus planes so it can replace some of its aging planes and grow after the pandemic eases.

DEALS

Victory Cruise Lines, operated by American Queen Steamboat Company, is offering up to US$2,000 savings per stateroom on its new immersive Mexico and the Yucatán Peninsula itineraries on Victory I. The line’s “FREEDOM” sale is available on four 11-day cruise and land tours taking place in January 2022 departing Cancun roundtrip for reservations made by Aug. 31.

Taking place now through Aug. 31, Miami Spa Months offers guests up to 50% off a variety of treatments – from open-air spa facials to Swedish or Balu fusion massage, or a private couple’s mud bath treatment. Participating venues include The Palms AVEDA, Esencia Spa at Nobu Eden Roc Hotel Miami Beach, Valmont for the Spa at the Setai, and the Spa at Carillion Miami Beach.

TOURS

G Adventures, which celebrated the departure of its 250th trip since re-start on July 11 is extending its current sale offering up to 25% off more than 100 itineraries across seven travel styles, for trips booked by July 31 and departing before Oct. 31. G notes that it will conduct 165 trips in July and more than 200 in August.

New sustainable travel experiences in Europe designed to benefit local communities are being introduced by Intrepid Travel, designed in partnership with the MEET Network Association, which works with protected areas in the Mediterranean to create ecotourism products that support nature conservation efforts and benefit local communities. Intrepid’s two new tours incorporating MEET experiences include the five-day “Croatia: Sibenik & the Kornati Islands,” and “Highlights of Crete,” both departing from Aug. 14.

HOTELS
Baillie Lodges’ new-look Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge on Vancouver Island has re-opened following an extended closure due to the pandemic, which has offered an opportunity for the luxury lodge operator to complete a $2-million makeover on the property. Upgrades include a full renovation of interiors for the property’s 25 luxury tents plus a refreshed itinerary of wilderness adventures, such as horse-riding, whale and bear-spotting, canyoning, and scenic helicopter flights, which are included in the rate.

Quebec hotel chain Times Hôtels is now welcoming guests at a brand new 143-room landmark hotel in Laval. The fifth property for the group, Grand Hôtel Times Laval is situated at the corner of St Martin and Jeanne-Mance close to the Centropolis business, retail, and entertainment hub. The 12-storey hotel features contemporary rooms and suites and an array of amenities including an indoor pool and fitness centre, chic VIP lounge, and a 150-seat Pizzeria Sofia location specializing in fine Italian cuisine. The second phase of the development project, slated to start construction in Spring 2022, will include an additional tower with more than 150 rooms

RESORTS

In celebration of its opening, the Barbados COVID Lab at The Crane Resort is offering a “Fast Track Testing” package for Canadians for US$229 that includes personal VIP service, being whisked through customs, immigration, and the various Ministry of Health processes at the airport, a one-way transfer to resort, a PCR test on both arrival and departure, and a luxury “isolation suite” at no charge in the unlikely event a fully vaccinated visitor tests positive.

The 184-room Barbary Beach House Key West is to transform into Margaritaville Beach House Key West, this fall, offering poolside entertainment, daily refreshments, a 24-hour fitness centre, activities for kids, lawn games, lounging hammocks throughout resort grounds, and Hobie catamarans, paddleboards and kayaks. Barbary Beach House, the former Sheraton Suites Key West, opened in June 2020 after undergoing an $18-million renovation. The resort is at 2001 S. Roosevelt Blvd., located across a half-mile shoreline stretch of Smathers Beach and about a mile from Key West International Airport.

CRUISE

Declaring Venice’s waterways a “national monument,” Italy has banned mammoth cruise liners from sailing into the Italian lagoon city, which risked being declared an imperiled world heritage site by the United Nations later this month.

Luxury river cruise operator AmaWaterways has announced a new partnership with leading family history and consumer genomics company, Ancestry. The collaboration provides a unique opportunity for guests to discover details pertaining to their specific family history while cruising with Ama with a special Ancestry Experience package that provides travellers with a pre-cruise private consultation and family history research, onboard presentations, and curated excursions accompanied by an expert genealogist throughout the cruise. The first cruise departs from Amsterdam on July 20, 2022, aboard the AmaStella, visiting Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort returns Sept. 3-Oct. 31 with Halloween events and themes throughout Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Downtown Disney District gets in the spirit as well, from Sept. 9- to Oct. 31, with seasonal décor, treats and an all-new Halloween-themed pumpkin hunt, Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit.

EVENTS

July 20: Agents from coast to coast are invited to join the Jamaica Tourist Board’s inaugural Virtual Product Showcase on July 20 from 1 to 3 p.m. On tap will be timely destination updates, the opportunity to connect with travel suppliers, “some unique island fun,” plus games and giveaways. To register for the Zoom event, click HERE.

TL Network is set to relaunch in-person “mixers” between members and suppliers starting later this summer. In all, 14 events are scheduled in the second half of 2021 and are free to members. Events, with full safety protocols and limited numbers, feature mini-trade show, presentations, and dinner. Dates include Aug. 31, Winnipeg; Sept. 14, Vancouver; Sept. 15, Mississauga; Sept. 21, Calgary; Sept. 22, Kitchener-Waterloo; Sept. 28, Halifax; Sept. 29, St. John’s; Sept. 30, Edmonton; Oct. 5, Saskatoon; Nov. 23, Winnipeg and Montreal; Nov. 24, Ottawa; Dec. 1, St. Catharines; and Dec. 14, Vancouver.

DESTINATIONS

Effective July 12 St. Kitts & Nevis’s “Vacation in Place” period for fully vaccinated international air travellers was reduced from nine days to three days, with testing on day four and the ability to fully integrate into the Federation upon receipt of a negative test result.

A massive installation dubbed “Beyond Monet” will make its world premiere Aug. 5 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. The exhibit will transform more than 400 paintings, covering 4,600 sq. m. into larger-than-life images, including well-known masterpieces from the “Water Lilies” series. Tickets start at $39.99 for adults and $29.99 for children and are available at monettoronto.com.

London’s Science Museum and the Cambridge University library have acquired a large collection of items belonging to late physicist Stephen Hawking, from his personalized wheelchairs to landmark papers on theoretical physics and his scripts from his appearance on “The Simpsons.” Many of the artifacts will be preserved as part of the collection belonging to the Science Museum Group and will go on display at the museum early next year. Museum officials are also hoping to create a touring exhibition in the UK before setting up a permanent display in London.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Best Western Hotels Asia Opens New Hotel in Vietnam’s Iconic Ha Long Bay

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Best Western Hotels Asia Opens New Hotel in Vietnam’s Iconic Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, July 17, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Best Western Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of a new upscale hotel in Vietnam, located on the waterfront overlooking Ha Long Bay, the iconic UNESCO World Heritage-listed ecological and geographical wonder.

Best Western Premier Sapphire Ha Long, starts welcoming guests on July 15th 2021, a brand-new 31-story property in the heart of Ha Long city, located on the waterfront of Hong Gai overlooking Ha Long Bay. Moments away from the beach, shopping malls, theme park, pagodas, international cruise terminal and waterpark, water music theatre, island tours.

Blending timeless Vietnamese style and hospitality with international services, the hotel offers the perfect place to stay to both, travelers visiting Ha Long for leisure as well as for business.

Guests have 1,008 spacious rooms and suites all with private balconies, spacious rooms 34 to 68 m2, King, twin and triple rooms complemented by luxury bedding, amenities and toweling. All rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi, extensive IPTV channel selection, large windows offering panoramic views of the bay or city views. A selection of two-bedroom suites provide spacious long stay opportunities to family short stays, each room has two bedrooms and on suite bathroom, spacious living room, large private panoramic balconies.

The hotel features heated indoor pool and seasonal outdoor swimming pool suitable for lap swimming or family fun. A fully equipped fitness center, spa (2022) and kids’ club. With two restaurants and a lobby bar offering a selection of culinary delights including Vietnamese, Asian, sea food and international cuisine can be enjoyed. An executive lounge, business center and meeting facilities with video conferencing available provides additional professional services to all guests.

Cat Bi International Airport is just 50 km away, Van Don International Airport is 45 km away, both offering connections throughout Vietnam, and the Vietnamese capital, Hanoi, can be accessed in 2.5 hours via the high speed expressway.

“We are delighted to cut the ribbon on Best Western Premier Sapphire Ha Long – a world-class new hotel on the waterfront of Ha Long Bay, one of Asia’s most iconic destinations. With its excellent location and extensive amenities, this will become a landmark hotel that attracts international and domestic guests alike. With over 1,000 keys, it is also one of the largest hotels in our regional collection, which reflects our confidence in the future of Vietnam’s hospitality industry,” said Erwann Mahe, Managing Director of International Operations – Asia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts.

Best Western has identified Vietnam as one of its key Asian markets, due to factors including strong economic growth, its captivating culture and a wealth of natural wonders. Following the launch of Best Western Premier Sapphire Ha Long, the group now operates two hotels in Vietnam with 12 more in the pipeline, covering destinations such as Hanoi, Da Nang, Da Lat, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An and Hoa Binh. With multiple brands set to enter the market, including Best Western Plus, Best Western Premier, Executive Residency, BW Premier Collection, and BW Signature Collection, Best Western will be able to cater for every type of traveler in Vietnam.

For more information about Best Western Hotels & Resorts in Asia, please visit www.BestWesternAsia.com.

About Best Western Hotels and Resorts:
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand within the BWH Hotel Group® global network. With 18 brands and approximately 4,700 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. Brands include Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Vīb®, GLō®, Aiden®, Sadie®, BW Premier Collection® and BW Signature Collection®. Through acquisition, WorldHotelsTM Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Distinctive and WorldHotels Crafted collections are also offered. Completing the portfolio is SureStay®, SureStay Plus®, SureStay Collection® and SureStay StudioSM franchises**.

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

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Approved Vaccine Inconsistency to Delay Restart of International Travel

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Approved Vaccine Inconsistency to Delay Restart of International Travel

London, United Kingdom, July 16, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The restart of international travel could be seriously delayed without worldwide reciprocal recognition of all approved COVID-19 vaccines, says the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Warning comes as tourists are blocked at the borders.

The global tourism body, which represents the global private Travel & Tourism sector, has issued its warning following concerns tourists face being turned away at the borders because countries don’t have a common list internationally recognised and approved COVID-19 vaccines.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

This comes just days after a number of British holidaymakers, who had been administered the Indian Covishield batch of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, were rejected entry into Malta despite the drug being chemically identical to the UK-made vaccine.

Over the past few weeks reports of holidaymakers facing obstacles to entry have been on the rise, with some even being prevented from boarding their flights to destinations.

WTTC believes that once again, the lack of international coordination to agree on a list of approved vaccines, is creating yet another major stumbling block for the restart of international travel.

This comes despite most vaccines have secured the approval of the World Health Organisation (WHO) or Stringent Regulatory Authorities (SRAs), such as the UK’s the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Food and Drug Administration in the US, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Reports of travellers being turned away because they have the ‘wrong’ vaccine batches or ‘unrecognised’ vaccines have fueled concern from consumers, deterring them from booking and thereby damaging the already struggling Travel & Tourism sector.

The plea for reciprocal recognition for all vaccines and vaccine batches forms part of WTTC’s four new guidelines which are aimed at safely resuming international mobility and save the millions of jobs and livelihoods which depend on this sector, while kick-starting the global economic recovery.

Virginia Messina, Senior Vice President WTTC, said: “Reciprocal recognition of all vaccine types and batches is essential if we are to avoid any further unnecessary and damaging delay to restarting international travel.

“The failure of countries to agree on a common list of all approved and recognised vaccines is of huge concern to WTTC, as we know every day travel is curbed, more cash-strapped Travel & Tourism businesses face even greater strain, pushing ever more to the brink of bankruptcy.

“We can avoid this by having a fully recognised list of all the approved vaccines – and vaccine batches – which should be the key to unlocking international travel, not the door to preventing it.

“It will also give holidaymakers and travellers the confidence they need to book trips, flights and cruises, confident in the knowledge that their fully-vaccinated status will be internationally recognised.”

WTTC says the restoration of safe international travel can be achieved by following its four guidelines.

Through a combination of COVID-19 testing, vaccination, digital health travel passes and the use of health and safety protocols, such as wearing face masks, safe international mobility can resume while at the same time saving millions of jobs and livelihoods which depend on the sector and kick-starting the global economic recovery.

WTTC’s fundamental guidelines to restore international mobility while safeguarding public health include: 

  1. Appropriately reduced protocols for vaccinated travellers, including no need for testing or quarantine for those fully vaccinated. Global recognition for international travel of all vaccines authorised for use and deemed safe and effective by the WHO or by the WHO recognised SRAs.
  2. A data driven, risk-based and internationally harmonised approach to re-establishing freedom of movement, that is consistent across countries, easy to communicate and clearly understood by travellers.
  3. Global adoption of ‘digital health passes’ which enable travellers to easily obtain and verify their vaccination status, negative COVID test result or natural immunity from a previous infection. These must work with existing border control and travel operator systems accepted by all countries. Digital verification of a traveller’s COVID status prior to travel will avoid lengthy and unsafe queues in transport hubs and terminals.
  4. Continued implementation of high-quality health and safety standards throughout all areas of the Travel & Tourism sector, including continued adoption of the WTTC’s Safe Travel Protocols and Safe Travel Stamp, with the continued wearing of face masks in crowded and enclosed areas as well as on all forms of public transport.

WTTC advocates the full implementation of these proportionate and responsible guidelines for travel during over the next few months, as many travel restrictions begin being eased as major travel markets begin to reopen.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

This is against the backdrop of a successful vaccination roll out, with a subsequent decrease in deaths, cases, and hospitalisations in many countries. However, variants will continue to be cause of concern as the world struggles to emerge from the effects of the pandemic.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Samui, Ko Pha-ngan and Ko Tao Reopen with Samui Plus Program

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Samui, Ko Pha-ngan and Ko Tao Reopen with Samui Plus Program

Koh Samui, Thailand, July 16, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to announce the launch of the Samui Plus programme, under which Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao can be visited by fully vaccinated international tourists with no quarantine requirements.

The Samui Plus programme is for travel between July and December 2021, to these three islands located in Surat Thani province. General information on the Samui Plus programme; such as, entry requirements, on arrival procedures, safety and hygiene measures, and FAQs can be found here.

H.E. Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, said “The reopening of Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao to tourism is another significant step toward achieving the Thai Prime Minister’s recently announced policy of reopening the whole country within 120 days, or by the end of October. Phuket is already open as the pilot destination, and other destinations will follow in the scheduled order with carefully planned disease control and public health measures, travel procedures, and the right tourism marketing all being addressed.”

Tourists visiting under the Samui Plus programme can choose to stay in ‘Samui Extra Plus’and ‘SHA Plus’ hotels for the first 7 nights and the remaining 7 nights, respectively. Both labels are officially approved in terms of hygiene and safety. The Samui Extra Plus hotels are formerly ALQ hotels (now referred to as AQ hotels) and have been specially assigned for the Samui Plus programme. SHA Plus-certified hotels mean they meet the necessary measures to control COVID-19, and also that 70% of their workforce has been fully vaccinated.

Mr. Vijvut Tjinto, Governor of Surat Thani Province, said “Surat Thani’s tourism sector together with the provincial authorities are committed to seeing that Samui Plus visitors enjoy a memorable holiday. This can be seen in the dedicated efforts made by all parties involved leading up to the destination’s reopening; such as, the arranging of preventive measures against COVID-19 and the vaccination programme for the local Samui people.”

Dr. Manu Sukolsakul, Surat Thani Provincial Public Health Doctor, said “When it comes to public health measures, everything from the quarantine system and testing and isolation of any positive cases to the accessibility of hospitals and medical personnel is at a state of readiness.”

Samui Plus tourists visiting Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao can rest assured their health and well-being is considered of utmost importance during their time in Thailand.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said “With the Phuket Sandbox and Samui Plus programmes now both in effect, more of the legendary tourism appeal that has made Thailand such a beloved destination for travellers the world over can again be enjoyed. The gorgeous islands of Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao are among the best beach resorts in Asia, and it is fantastic to see these welcoming tourists again.”

For the launch today of the Samui Plus programme, there were nine international arrivals from Hong Kong, France, Germany, Singapore, and the UK. All are members of the media by the invitation of the TAT, as part of the plan to create awareness of the Samui Plus programme through first-hand experience by members of the media, celebrities and influencers from around the world.

TAT expects some 1,000 foreign tourists to arrive under the Samui Plus programme during the first month, from 15 July to 15 August.

Mr. Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, President of Tourism Association of Ko Samui, said “On behalf of the people in Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao, we’re ready to welcome both Thai and international tourists back to these three beautiful islands again. Please come and enjoy your quality time among all this wonderful scenery, experience some exciting activities, enjoy a lot of tasty dishes, as well as our warm hospitality. We hope the Samui Plus model will bring vitalisation and a lively ambience to Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan and Ko Tao again.”

Phuket and Surat Thani’s Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao are the first of Thailand’s destinations to reopen to tourism.

The next destinations to reopen – on 1 September, 2021, – will be Krabi (Ko Phi Phi, Ko Ngai, and Railay Beach), Phang Nga (Khao Lak and Ko Yao), Chiang Mai (Mueang District and Mae Rim, Mae Taeng, and Doi Tao Districts), Chon Buri (Pattaya, Bang Lamung, and Sattahip), and Buri Ram (Mueang District and Chang Arena).

The scheduled date for the reopening of Bangkok, Phetchaburi (Cha-am) and Prachuap Khiri Khan (Hua Hin) is 1 October, 2021, with the rest of Thailand due to reopen throughout the month of October.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BACK TO WORK: American recalling flight attendants to handle travel crowds

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American Airlines is cancelling extended leaves for about 3,300 flight attendants and telling them to come back to work in time for the holiday season. And the carrier plans to hire 800 new flight attendants by next March, according to an airline executive.

The moves are the latest indication that leisure travel in the US is recovering more quickly from the pandemic than airlines expected.

“Increasing customer demand and new routes starting later this year mean we need more flight attendants to operate the airline,” Brady Byrnes, the airline’s vice president of flight service, told flight attendants in a memo Thursday.

Byrnes said cabin crews who are coming back from leave will return to flights in November or December.

Last year, American offered long-term leaves of absence to flight attendants and other employees to cut costs while it struggled with a steep drop in travel caused by the coronavirus outbreak. Other airlines did the same thing. Now they need people.

Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said this week that his airline expects to hire between 4,000 and 5,000 workers this year. Delta plans to add 1,300 reservations agents by this fall to reduce long waits on hold for customers who call the airline. It’s also adding customer service, cargo and airport workers and plans to hire more than 1,000 pilots before next summer.

When the pandemic hit, the number of people flying in the US plunged below 100,000 on some days, a level not seen in decades. This year, it has climbed from less than 700,000 a day in early February to 2 million a day in July.

Help wanted

In other sectors of tourism and travel the issue of understaffing is looming large. Restaurants, hotels, and some travel companies wholesale and retail are having difficulties getting adequate numbers of staff as bookings increase and lockdown restrictions are lifted.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE IN 2021

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After a year with little to celebrate, Nova Scotian winemakers are popping corks and raising glasses to commemorate the 410th anniversary of the planting of the province’s first vineyard.

In 1611 Louis Hebert, the apothecary at The Habitation in Port Royal, planted a hillside vineyard in Bear River. According to Canadian wine expert Tony Aspler’s book Vintage Canada, Hebert “loaded his canoe with vines he brought with him from France” and paddled to Bear River “to plant himself a vineyard.”

It’s a natural progression for a place where the continent’s first dinner club, the Order of Good Cheer, was created. While not facing a pandemic, Samuel de Champlain organized the Order of Good Cheer to raise the morale of the men suffering the long, cold winter of 1606 at The Habitation.

Pairing this historic social aspect of the Order of Good Cheer with the later vineyard planting laid the foundation for over 400 years of subsequent food-and-drink-based celebrations in Nova Scotia.

While it’s assumed the Vikings found grapes in Vinland (something disputed by Helge Ingstad, who with his archaeologist, Anne Stine Ingstad, discovered Lief Erikson’s colony at L’Anse Aux Meadows) and Jacques Cartier found wild grapes growing along the St. Lawrence, Bear River is the first reference to European vines planted in what would become Canada. Bear River’s first vineyard was created 200 years before those planted in Ontario and 248 years before British Columbia, launching the community and province as an original wine region.

The location for this first vineyard appears to have been chosen for the benign microclimate offered by the inland location. The twice-a-day flushing of the Bay of Fundy tides into and out of the Annapolis Basin and upstream to Bear River creates a type of natural heat bank, mitigating extremes in weather and temperature.

The province’s next recorded vineyard was planted in 1633 in Petite Riviere. These early plantings confirm Nova Scotia position as one of the oldest new world wine regions.

And in 1963, when federal agricultural scientists wanted to seriously study the potential for a Nova Scotian wine industry, they seemed to take their lead from history, planting a vineyard in Bear River. That experimental vineyard is on the land occupied by the Bear River Vineyards. While none of the 1611 vines exist, some of the 1963 vines do. And scientists recently determined that vines on a nearby property, where a new vineyard is being planted, are 80 years old. Those vines are so tall only the birds enjoy their harvest.

Now our formal grape and wine research has returned to the vineyards and labs at the Agricultural and Agri-Food Canada Research and Development Centre and a teaching vineyard at the Nova Scotia Community College in Kentville, and a wine research laboratory at Acadia University, Wolfville.

Hanspeter Stutz of Domain de Grand Pre points to these developments and says, “A big difference to the earlier days of our young industry is the support from government, because they see the economic impact, based on huge investments from the different wineries and operators.”

Stutz suggests while “there may still be people who don’t know about our high standard of quality overall for Nova Scotia wines” they should know Nova Scotian wines are from Nova Scotian vines and that the winemaker’s focus is on “quality” vs quantity.

This resurgent sector of “local, high quality wines are a success for our Province. Growers and wineries are also important sources for jobs in the Province – not only on the agriculture level, also for tourism.”

And it started in Bear River 410 years ago. This is a commemoration which can be done within pandemic regulations: in your bubble, on a patio, at home and virtually.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

HEADING EAST THROUGH ONTARIO

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As inhabitants of Canada’s largest city contemplate some travels after various lockdowns, I begin to wonder if they know of the many delights awaiting them almost on their own doorstep.

It’s the region known as South Eastern Ontario; nine counties stretching from the Bay of Quinte on the western edge to the counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry along the Quebec border, encompassing the regions along both sides of Highway 401.

If that description sounds rather ‘dry’, let me elaborate. Here are lakes, rivers and islands in the south, rolling hills and open farmlands to the north. There are lively and historic towns and even a city – Kingston – which played an important part in our history. And the scenery, especially in the region where the St. Lawrence River includes the 1000 Islands, is breathtaking.

Spending time on or in the water provides some great adventures. There are 1000 Islands cruises from the delightful town of Gananoque, houseboat rentals, world-class fishing, canoeing and kayaking, even scuba diving with shipwrecks to explore. And there are parks and beaches for families and those merely wishing to relax.

Hotels, inns and B&Bs abound and there are excellent restaurants throughout the region, which is renowned for its ‘farm-to-table’ scene. The local food movement is active, offering fresh produce, maple syrup and honey, lavender products, artisanal cheeses, and cider, along with microbreweries and wineries galore.

Kingston – the limestone city – is the jewel of the urban locations in the region, with its history as Canada’s first capital, its role in the War of 1812, spectacular Fort Henry and its renowned haunted walks. From it strategic location atop a hill, Fort Henry not only offers a glimpse of our history, but also lovely views over Lake Ontario entering the St. Lawrence River and the Thousand Islands. There are art galleries, concert venues, pleasant parks and, in downtown Kingston, a truly international restaurant scene as well as great shopping.

It’s a beautiful drive eastwards on Hwy. 2 out of Kingston, mostly along the river. Gananoque is home to the 1000 Islands Playhouse … two theatre stages in an old rowing club in what must be one of the most beautifully-located small theatres in the world, and there’s fine dining in this town too. The Aquatarium is an interactive science museum in Brockville, while Prehistoric World in Morrisburg invites children to play amidst life-sized dinosaur models. The Doran Bay Model Ship Museum, between Brockville and Cornwall, offers one of the world’s finest private model ship collections along with fascinating military figurines, all set in a restored 1880s mansion overlooking the river.

This is a great area for cycling. Rolling countryside offers trails and thousands of miles of country roads and dedicated bike paths for every level of rider. The Cataraqui Trail threads quietly though the countryside, while the Waterfront Trail offers 90 km of uninterrupted cycling along a scenic route on the shore of the St. Lawrence.

For golfers there are over a dozen spectacular courses, among them the Black Bear Ridge in Belleville and Smuggler’s Glen at Glen House Resort in Lansdowne.

Almost every activity offers the opportunity for wildlife and bird watching, especially in spring and fall as the area lies on a major migratory route. My garden is often visited by foxes and rabbits and we’ve seen a coyote on Highway 2. We know many of the region’s osprey platforms, all of which are occupied this year, while a barred owl in the Cataraqui Conservation area has provided us with our favourite photo of the year so far.

After all those activities perhaps a little retail therapy is on the cards. The offerings of Kingston have already been mentioned, but local craftspeople and retailers offer a wide variety of items in specialty boutiques throughout the region.… unique items to give as gifts or keep as souvenirs. There are antiques galore and tempting clothing stores. The shops offer a pleasant shopping experience away from the hurly-burly of the big cities.

The region is an easy drive from Toronto (and from Montreal, of course … lots of Quebeckers come to enjoy this region too). It offers a complete vacation or a stop-over between the two cities. But it’s also worth a visit from other parts of Canada … there’s so much to do, the scenery is spectacular and a warm welcome awaits all visitors.

Even closer to Toronto is another summer playground for vacationers. It’s Prince Edward County, or merely ‘The County’ to those who know it. The creation of the Murray Canal to provide safe passage into the Bay of Quinte meant The County became, technically, an island, although roads cross the canal providing an easy driving getaway. There’s also a car ferry (free) from the mainland to a hamlet called Glenora, which puts drivers close to the County’s major town – attractive Picton.

The County is home to farmers, wine makers, artists and craftspeople, and some renowned chefs who have left Toronto for a rural lifestyle. The region’s roots lie in farming and the ‘food scene’ is vibrant and innovative. A gem among many is the Lake on the Mountain Resort with its inn and adjacent Miller house restaurant. The patio of the latter offers one of the finest views in Ontario. Add to all this the fact that the County offers 800 km of shoreline – much of it spectacular beach – and you have a true summer playground.

In fact the glorious beaches of Sandbanks Provincial Park are so popular that reservations on summer week-ends are recommended. As with the region to the east, the County offers superb cycling, kayaking, canoeing and fishing. Here, as on the mainland, villages and hamlets offer many boutiques and craft stores, along with restaurants and those ubiquitous ice-cream parlours! If you’re setting out to explore South Eastern Ontario, the County is well worth a visit. It is much loved by many.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IATA: Tax is Not the Answer to Aviation Sustainability

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IATA: Tax is Not the Answer to Aviation Sustainability

Geneva, Switzerland, July 15, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned that the reliance on taxation as the solution for cutting aviation emissions in the EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ proposal is counter-productive to the goal of sustainable aviation. EU policy needs to support practical emission reduction measures such as incentives for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and modernization of air traffic management.

“Aviation is committed to decarbonization as a global industry. We don’t need persuading, or punitive measures like taxes to motivate change. In fact, taxes siphon money from the industry that could support emissions’ reducing investments in fleet renewal and clean technologies. To reduce emissions, we need governments to implement a constructive policy framework that, most immediately, focuses on production incentives for SAF and delivering the Single European Sky,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Comprehensive Approach

Achieving aviation decarbonization requires a combination of measures. These include:

  • Sustainable Aviation Fuels which reduce emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel. Insufficient supply and high prices have limited airline uptake to 120 million litres in 2021 — a small fraction of the 350 billion litres that airlines would consume in a ‘normal’ year.
  • Market-based measures to manage emissions until technology solutions are fully developed. The industry supports the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) as a global measure for all international aviation. It avoids creating a patchwork of uncoordinated national or regional measures such as the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, that can undermine international cooperation. Overlapping schemes can lead to the same emissions being paid for more than once. IATA is extremely concerned by the Commission’s proposal that European States would no longer implement CORSIA on all international flights.
  • Single European Sky (SES) to reduce unnecessary emissions from fragmented air traffic management (ATM) and resulting inefficiencies. Modernizing European ATM through the SES initiative would cut  Europe’s aviation emissions between 6-10%, but national governments continue to delay implementation.
  • Radical new clean technologies. While it is unlikely that electric or hydrogen propulsion could have a significant impact on aviation emissions within the EU ‘Fit for 55’ timeframe of 2030, the development of these technologies is ongoing and needs to be supported.

“Aviation’s near-term vision is to provide sustainable, affordable air transport for all European citizens with SAF-powered fleets, operating with efficient air traffic management. We should all be worried that the EU’s big idea to decarbonize aviation is making jet fuel more expensive through tax. That will not get us to where we need to be. Taxation will destroy jobs. Incentivizing SAF will improve energy independence and create sustainable jobs. The focus must be on encouraging the production of SAF, and delivering the Single European Sky,” said Walsh.

Promoting SAF

The most practical near-term solution to reducing emissions is SAF. Energy transitions are successful when production incentives drive down the price of alternative fuels while driving supplies up. The EU ‘Fit for 55’ proposal does not include direct measures that will achieve this. Without specific measures to reduce SAF costs, it does, however, propose a mandate to increase SAF utilization to 2% of jet fuel use by 2025 and at least 5% by 2030.

“Making SAF cheaper will accelerate aviation’s energy transition and improve Europe’s competitiveness as a green economy. But making jet fuel more expensive through taxation scores an ‘own goal’ on competitiveness that does little to accelerate the commercialization of SAF,” said Walsh.

Mandating a gradual transition to SAF is a less efficient policy compared to comprehensive production incentives, but it may contribute to making SAF more affordable and widely available in Europe, but only under the following key conditions:

  • It is limited to EU-only flights. This will limit the negative impacts on the competitiveness of European air transport and potential political challenges from other countries
  • It is accompanied by policy measures to ensure a competitive market and appropriate production incentives. The mandated use of SAF must not allow energy companies to engage in uncompetitive practices with the resulting high costs being borne by airlines and passengers.
  • It is targeted at locations which have substantial airline operations and close proximity to SAF refineries.

Concrete actions on Single European Sky are urgently needed

The SES has been on the drawing board for 20 years but has made little progress despite the promise of a 6-10% improvement in environmental performance, safer operations and reduced delays.

“Europe’s national politicians are quick to lecture airlines on the efforts industry should be making on the environment. But they are silent when it comes to areas of their own responsibility. Just recently the European Council failed to show any leadership to cut emissions by harmonizing European air traffic management. Moreover, the constant absence of political support from states on the SES proposals undermines the credibility of the ‘Fit for 55’ proposal and the credibility of Europe’s determination to drive real solutions for sustainability,” said Walsh.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Centara Confirms Management Agreement for Al Hail Waves Hotel Oman

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Centara Confirms Management Agreement for Al Hail Waves Hotel Oman

Muscat, Oman, July 15, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Thailand’s leading hotel operator pushes forward with international expansion plans to become a top 100 global hotel operator within five years. Thailand’s leading hotel operator Centara Hotels & Resorts and Ibn Saleh Al Hashmi Construction (ISAHC) announced the signing of a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) for Al Hail Waves managed by Centara.

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The management of the 64-key existing property will come into effect on 1st January 2022, after which Centara will start to refurbish the property to align with Centara’s brand and operational standards while it remains in operation.

“We are proud and excited to launch our third hotel in Oman, a country blessed with stunning nature, fascinating historical sites, and rich cultural heritage. The Omani government has laid out an ambitious roadmap to achieve long term goals set forth in the Omani Tourism Strategy, and with Ibn Saleh Al Hashmi Construction as our partner, we are confident that we will attract discerning travellers with our sharing, caring family values,” said Thirayuth Chirathivat, Chief Executive Officer, Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Founded in 1994, Ibn Saleh Al Hashmi Construction (ISAHC) is one of the fastest growing construction companies in Oman with a proven track record for an impressive portfolio including hotels, private villas, and residential buildings. Al Hail Waves managed by Centara will be ISAHC’s third project awarded to Centara after Muscat Dunes Hotel and Centara Muscat Hotel Oman.

“For our latest hospitality project in Oman, we are delighted to work once again with Centara Hotels & Resorts. We share the same position of leadership in everything we do, supported by a common vision of sustainable growth. We have confidence in the group’s international sales and marketing expertise and look forward to a continued journey of success as we offer visitors an appealing choice of top-class hotels in Oman,” said Abdullah Saleh Saif Al Hashmi, Chairman of Ibn Saleh Al Hashmi Construction.

The hotel’s 64 holiday residences include Standard Rooms (20 – 26 sqm) designed for modern living and Studios (35 – 40 sqm) which come fully furnished with facilities including a kitchenette. The largest Two-Bedroom Apartments measure 84 sqm and feature separate lounge and dining areas, as well as amenities and modern comforts for long stays and travelling families.

Other facilities at Al Hail Waves managed by Centara include an all-day dining restaurant, a swimming pool overlooking the Arabian Sea, fully equipped gym, as well as two meeting rooms to accommodate events of up to 150 guests.

Situated in the northwest of Muscat on the road connecting Al-Seeb and Al Athaiba, Al Hail Waves managed by Centara is centrally located with both The Seeb corniche and the beach within walking distance from the hotel. The premier leisure destination of Al Mouj is a short drive from the hotel, and the new Muscat International Airport is a 15-minute drive away.

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About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 84 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Cambodia, Turkey, Indonesia and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. The group’s newest Centara Reserve brand was unveiled in 2020 as an experiential luxury collection, inviting guests to discover a new era of story-driven hospitality starting with Centara Reserve Samui.

Centara also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Over the next five years Centara aims to become a top 100 global hotel group, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News