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UNWTO Middle East Members Meet in Jordan

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UNWTO Middle East Members Meet in Jordan - TRAVELINDEXPetra, Jordan, June 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism leaders from across the Middle East have met to guide the sector’s development across the region, including as a driver of inclusive employment and rural development.

The 49th meeting of the UNWTO Regional Commission for the Middle East brought high-level delegations from 12 countries together at the Dead Sea, in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, to assess the current state of tourism in the region and advance shared plans for its future.

Middle East: First Region to Exceed Pre-Pandemic Levels

For the Middle East, tourism represents an unrivalled driver of employment and opportunity, as well as economic diversification and resilience

According to UNWTO data, the Middle East is the first global region to exceed pre-pandemic numbers of international tourist arrivals so far in 2023.

  • Overall, international arrivals to destinations in the Middle East during the first quarter of 2023 were 15% higher than in the same period of 2019
  • Jordan welcomed 4.6 million tourists in 2022, close to the 4.8 million recorded in 2019, with receipts from tourism totaling US$5.8 billion for the year
  • On the eve of the Regional Commission meeting, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili met with HRH Crown Prince Al Hussein to congratulate him on the “rapid and remarkable” recovery of Jordanian tourism. The Secretary-General also commended the strong support shown to tourism by the Jordanian Royal Family and the Government, including for ongoing work to diversify the sector.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Tourism has shown its resilience in the face of crisis. And now, recovery is well underway – with all the challenges and opportunities this brings. For the Middle East, tourism represents an unrivalled driver of employment and opportunity, as well as economic diversification and resilience.”

UNWTO Supports Members’ Priorities in the Middle East

Participants, representing 12 of the 13 UNWTO Member States in the region, and including 7 Ministers of Tourism, benefitted from a comprehensive overview of the Organization’s progress achieving its Programme of Work.:

  • Education: Members were given an overview of UNWTO’s work to advance one of its key priorities for tourism. Key achievements include an agreement signed with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to develop tourism education, including through online courses with the potential to reach up to 300 million people worldwide, and the Jobs Factory, linking 50 employers with 100,000 jobseekers. UNWTO is also launching a first Undergraduate Degree in Sustainable Tourism Management and developing plans to make tourism a high school subject.
  • Tourism for Rural Development: The UNWTO Regional Office for the Middle East (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia) is growing as a global hub of tourism for rural development. Members were updated on its work, including the Best Tourism Villages initiative, which is welcoming applications for its third edition.
  • Innovation: UNWTO is working with its Members to make the Middle East a hub of tourism innovation. Recent initiatives include the Women in Tech Start-Up Competition for the Middle East, aimed at supporting female entrepreneurs across the region, and the Tourism Tech Adventures forum held in Qatar.

Looking Ahead

In line with UNWTO’s statutory obligations, Members from the Middle East agreed:

  • Jordan will serve as the Chair of the Commission for the Middle East for the period 2023 to 2025. Egypt and Kuwait will serve as the Vice Chairs.
  • The Commission will meet in Oman for its 50th meeting.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BBTF Promoting Tourism Practices that Prioritize Sustainability

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BBTF Promoting Tourism Practices that Prioritize Sustainability - TRAVELINDEX - VISITBALI.orgDenpasar, Bali, June 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The 9th Bali and Beyond Travel Fair (BBTF) TRAVEX was officially inaugurated by the Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster who has a deep concern for the tourism Industry, accompanied by the representative of the ministries, local government officials, tourism stakeholders, private sectors, associations, exhibitors, buyers and sellers today on 16th June 2023, at Bali International Convention Center (BICC) Nusa Dua.

“In line with our country envision to be the market place that create a platform for the growth and development of tourism in one event, BBTF presents the theme of reconnecting quality and sustainable tourism that is relevant on today’s market expectations”, I Putu Winastra the Head committee of BBTF and the Charmian of Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) Bali chapter stated. He further announced that BBTF this year have 350 buyers from 51 countries that facilitated by the Ministry of Foreign Affair of Republic of Indonesia and welcomed 230 sellers from 5 countries that are not only from Indonesia but also from Italia, China, Malaysia and America.

“The growth of quality and sustainable tourism in Bali is depending on how we are all respond and taking these opportunities after pandemic. Cultural tourism, health and wellness tourism are bearing high potential of tourism economic activity. Let’s demonstrate its capacity by promoting best practices that give good impact to environment and local community.” Wayan Koster stated on his opening remark.

Press conference speakers:
1. The Ministry of Tourism & Creative Economy – Vinsensius Jemadu, Deputy of Tourism Products and Event Organization
2. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Ambassador Siti Nugraha Mauludiah, Adviser to the Minister on Sosio Cultural Affairs and Indonesian Overseas
3. Chairman of Bali Tourism Board – Ida Bagus Agung Partha Adnyana
4. Tourism Malaysia, Junus Bin Suhid – Director of Tourism Malaysia Jakarta
5. General Manager the Westin Resort Nusa Dua – Sander Looijen
6. President Director of PT Pertamina Bina Medika, IHC – Drg. Mira Dyah Wahyuni, MARS

“Indonesia has so much potentials that we can explore deeper from cruising business to diversity products such medical tourism, wellness, ecotourism to MICE tourism. BBTF is one of the best platforms to promote. Events lead to recovery – the more events and festivals, faster the recovery. The government will encourage one village one event, to ensure community involvement in preserving the local wisdom and culture.” Vinsensius Jemadu, Deputy of Tourism Product and Event Organization Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of Republic of Indonesia stated about Indonesia products. He projected Bali as “Luxurious Affordable” destination that should not be positioning as cheap.

Ambassador Siti Nugraha Mauludiah, the advisor to the Minister on Socio Cultural Affairs and Indonesian Overseas added her comment about the Ministry Foreign Affair’ first time participation at BBTF that the event will be supported bigger next year after the learning experience at BBTF 2023. By inviting the ambassadors from various countries, we can encourage more participation of buyers that are willing to learn more and do business with Indonesia.

As mentioned, this year for the first time also the state-owned enterprise – Indonesia Healthcare Corporation (IHC) joined BBTF presenting the forthcoming project that is scheduled to open in mid-2024. “Bali International Hospital (BIH) under the management of IHC in collaboration with Mayo Clinic will bring a promise of Medical Tourism. BIH is located at the special economic zone Sanur – with the supported of Ministry of Health, BIH will soon be able to welcome the Diaspora of Indonesia back home in Bali as well as state-the-art medical equipment and medicines.” drg. Mira Dyah Wahyuni, MARS, the President Director of PT. Pertamina Bina Medika, IHC commented in relation to health tourism.

Other important speakers in the panel during press conference have contributed the same understanding on the importance of collaboration toward the success of tourism sector. Junus Bin Suhid the Director of Tourism Malaysia mentioned the appreciation and learnt on how BBTF bringing the added values in networking opportunities.

“Creating the continuous awareness will not only strengthens relationship between buyers and government officials but also commitment in creating a thriving and sustainable tourism industry.” Ni Made Ayu Martini, Deputy for Marketing Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy added to close the press conference.

For more information about BBTF 2023, please visit the website https://www.bbtf.co.id/

About BBTF
BBTF is an annual event with the intention to establish a benchmark for travel & tourism events and destinations in Indonesia. Supported by the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, BBTF holds B2B events and aims at advancing the tourism industry through business sessions and direct promotion, as best practices in MICE and Leisure Management. Together with exhibitors and buyers from numerous countries around the world, BBTF facilitates Pre-Scheduled Appointments (PSA) and business sessions for buyers and sellers to negotiate on their long-term leisure and corporate travel needs. Corporations, travel agents, hotel & resort chains, cruise operators, convention planners, venue operators and travel buyers can leverage the two and half days of business-to-business sessions to enhance their respective brands in the Indonesian and Asia Pacific markets.

In addition to the B2B sessions, the travel fair features an extensive program of activities for all delegates. From the fantastic networking events, to the inspirational knowledge program, the business of meetings has never been so rewarding. Bali is chosen as the venue because it is the gateway to Indonesia’s archipelago for global travelers and the island contributes up to 40% of all visitors to the nation each year.

Organized by the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) Bali chapter in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy and other stakeholders, this year BBTF is pleased to welcome the Minister of Foreign Affairs joining for the first time and willing to connect Indonesia’s potential to the world. Another highlight will be the contribution of the South Bali Badung Regency, with diverse destinations putting Bali on the map of quality tourism. After having successfully conducted the world recognized G20 in Nusa Dua, Bali is now ready to meet new market demands. This annual event is led by a passionate committee and supported by members of ASITA, public sector, and local government in order to promote and facilitate the development of tourism business in Indonesia and Bali in particular.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Conference Highlights Potential of Health and Wellbeing Tourism

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UNWTO Conference Highlights Potential of Health and Wellbeing Tourism - TRAVELINDEXSofia, Bulgaria, June 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Wellness and health tourism stands ready to offer significant benefits for destinations worldwide – but will need coordination, investments and a skilled workforce to fully deliver on its potential. That was the key takeaway message as leaders from the public and private sectors met for the UNWTO Conference on Education and Skills in Medical and Wellbeing Tourism in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Health and Wellbeing Tourism: Growing in Size and Relevance

In organizing the conference within the framework of its 68th Regional Commission for Europe, UNWTO made clear the growing importance of health and wellbeing tourism as a pillar of growth and opportunity.

  • UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili joined Ilin Dimitrov, Minister of Tourism for Bulgaria, in opening the conference, applauding Bulgaria for identifying the potential of health tourism for economic diversification
  • Participants in the conference included Deputy Ministers of Georgia and Lithuania, other high-level government representatives from Czechia and Ukraine, Vice-Chair of the TRAN Committee of the European Parliament and, representing the private sector, the leaders of the European Spa Association, as well as expert academics and figures from leading business groups.
  • Reflecting the growing importance of this part of the tourism sector for destinations everywhere, participants joined from across Europe, as well as from China and the United States.

Health tourism helps destinations diversify, creating jobs, supporting businesses and extending these benefits to rural communities

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Health tourism helps destinations diversify, creating jobs, supporting businesses and extending these benefits to rural communities. However, this part of our broad sector is especially reliant on skilled workers. As tourists’ expectations rise, so too must the level of service destinations can provide.”

Key Challenges: Education and Skills

In line with one of UNWTO’s priorities for the sector as a whole, the conference focused on the vital importance of education and training in health and wellbeing tourism.

  • A panel discussion welcomed expert inputs from leading academics, as well as private sector stakeholders.
  • Main takeaways included making training attractive, accessible and empowering so as to encourage workers to return to the tourism sector following the loss of personnel experienced during the pandemic. Speakers also emphasized the importance of government support for the tourism sector, with particular reference to investing in health and wellbeing infrastructure and in training personnel.
  • UNWTO updated participants on its leading role in advancing tourism education, including through the creation of a first Undergraduate Degree in Sustainable Tourism Management, and innovation competitions designed to find new ways of identifying and supporting new talent.

Recognizing the growing importance of health tourism in Europe and globally, UNWTO prioritizes the work in this field on acknowledging cultural and regional differences in taxonomy and understanding, implementing regulatory and ethical measures, measuring the impact of health tourism at national and domestic levels, promoting investments and cooperation, ensuring harmonized data collection, considering technological advances, involving governments to foster public-private collaboration, and generating knowledge at the intersection of tourism and health.

Masterclass for National Tourism Stakeholders

To conclude the conference, national stakeholders benefitted from a Masterclass focused on identifying the ‘destination Unique Selling Point’, with the cases of Czechia and Slovenia showcased as examples of effective marketing. The masterclass was followed by an interactive discussion.

Heath and Travel & Tourism

In the wider context of health and tourism, UNWTO has been working closely with the World Health Organization to coordinate the measures and messaging throughout the pandemic. Recognizing that health, travel and tourism are deeply interconnected in the globalized world, UNWTO is currently establishing the UNWTO Global Working Group on Health and Travel & Tourism with the aim to draw the lessons from the COVID crisis to generate greater resilience within travel and tourism and to ensure preparedness in the face of future threats.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Nepal Welcomes Over 200 Delegates to PATA Annual Summit & Adventure Mart

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Nepal Welcomes Over 200 Delegates to PATA Annual Summit & Adventure Mart - TRAVELINDEXPokhara, Nepal, June 15, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The PATA Annual Summit and Adventure Mart 2023 (PASM 2023), under the theme ‘Sustainability through Tourism”, commenced in Pokhara, Nepal on Tuesday, May 30 with 222 delegates from 115 organisations and 22 destinations attending the four-day event.

Organised by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and hosted by the Nepal Tourism Board with support from Event Patron, the Pokhara Municipality, and Local Partner, the Pokhara Tourism Council, the event encompassed various activities over the four-day programme. These included one-day PATA internal meetings for PATA members only (Executive Board & Board Meeting, Chapter Congress, and Government Meeting), a conference and adventure travel mart taking place across two days, the PATA Youth Symposium, and one-day destination experience as well as various networking sessions throughout the event.

“PATA has enjoyed a long and fruitful relationship with the both the Nepal Tourism Board and local industry stakeholders, continuously inspired by their enthusiasm and dedication to the sustainable growth of tourism in the country. That is why the Association was honoured to be able to bring the PATA Annual Summit and Adventure Mart 2023 to Pokhara,” said PATA Chair Peter Semone. “By bringing together a diverse group of international thought leaders, industry shapers and senior decision-makers from both the public and private sectors, our aim was to engage in discussions addressing the challenges and forging solutions for a responsible recovery of the travel and tourism industry, not only in Nepal but also in destinations worldwide. In this manner, PATA remains steadfast in our commitment to facilitating these discussions and working towards our shared objectives.”

On Tuesday, May 30, the PATA Executive Board & Board Meeting, and PATA Chapter Congress took place, which focused on matters of the Association and Chapters respectively. The Government Bilateral Meetings and PATA Government Meeting also occurred at this time, with the latter meeting focusing on the complex issue of Human Capital Development across the region and beyond. The day ended with the Inauguration Ceremony and PATA Awards Presentation, presided over by the Chief Minister of Gandaki Province Honourable Surendra Raj Pandey.

The following day began with the main stage conference and keynote presentation from Andrew Staples, Regional Head, (APAC), Policy & Insights, Economist Impact, who provided a succinct and engaging overview of global events, movements and trends – both economic, political, and cultural, and what all this means for tourism, and its growth in the next two years. This was followed by a series of presentations on “Insights into the Future of Tourism in the Asia Pacific” from Dr. Anyu Liu, Assistant Professor, School of Hotel and Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Herbert Yum, Research Manager, Euromonitor International; Mayur (Mac) Patel, Head of Asia, OAG, and Sridhar Keppurengan, Head of Cross Border Payments India & South Asia, VISA.

Following a quick break, Carmen Roberts, The Travel Show presenter from BBC News, moderated a panel session on “The Challenges and Opportunities for a Responsible Tourism Industry” with Dr. Dhananjay Regmi, CEO, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB); Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, Minister, Ministry of Tourism Maldives; Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), and Florian Sengstschmid, CEO, Azerbaijan Tourism Board.

The rest of the day continued with a panel discussion on “How to Drive Higher Value Tourism” with Rosabella Ong, Principal Client Partner (SEA), Tripadvisor; Lisa Choegyal, Sustainable Tourism Specialist and Director, Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge, and Upaul Majumdar, Head of Practice – Tourism, Dolma Consulting, moderated by Mr. Semone. This followed by presentations on “The Return of the Chinese Traveller” by Prof. Wolfgang Georg Arlt, CEO, China Outbound Tourism Research Institute (COTRI); “The Opportunity of the Indian Market” by SanJeet, Director, DDP Publications Pvt Ltd; “How can artificial intelligence (AI) drive tourism business” by Matt Gibson, CEO, UpThink, Thailand; and “Sustainable Tourism Interventions in Nepal” by Raj Gyawali, Tourism Strategy and Promotion Expert, Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Binita S. Khadka, Senior External Relations Officer, Asian Development Bank (ADB). In the later afternoon, the mart began, offering attendees the opportunity to engage in one-on-one meetings to explore potential collaborations and business opportunities with exhibitors from around the region.

The third day of the event began with dynamic panel discussions on “Managing Crises and Challenges in the Post Pandemic World” with Datuk Musa Hj. Yusof, Deputy Director General (Promotion), Tourism Malaysia; Madubhani Perera, Director/Public Relations, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, and Nandini Lahe Thapa, Senior Director – PR and Publicity, Nepal Tourism Board, moderated by John Bailey, Chief Operating Officer, GoCrisis; “Activating Partnerships with Communities for Sustainability” with Lucky Chhetri, Founder Director, 3 Sisters Adventure Trekking, Nepal; Dr. Chuwit Mitrchob, Deputy Director-General, DASTA, and Agnes Luz, Chief of Party, USAID Trade and Competitiveness Nepal, moderated by Pavnesh Kumar, Sustainability and Social Responsibility Programme Head, PATA; and “How To Work With Influencers on Social Media” with Monayac Karki, CEO and Co-Founder, Uptrendly, Nepal and Mr. Gibson, moderated Shradha Shrestha, Manager – Tourism Marketing & Promotion, Nepal Tourism Board. The afternoon continued with further one-on-one meetings at the mart, as well as the PATA Youth Symposium.

The final day of the event allowed delegates the opportunity to explore the beauty of Pokhara and included visits to Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, Gupeshwor Cave, the Peace Stupa and Shiva Temple.

The PATA Annual Summit and Adventure Mart 2023 was generously hosted by the Nepal Tourism Board with support from Event Patron, the Pokhara Municipality; Local Partner, the Pokhara Tourism Council; Event Partners, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Everest Bank Limited, Machhapuchhre Bank Limited, Nabil Bank and the Nepal Investment Bank; Event Tech Partners, Cvent and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB); National Carrier, Nepal Airlines; Official Domestic Carriers, Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines, and Youth Sponsors, the Global Peace Foundation, the Guam Visitors Bureau, and the PATA Thailand Chapter.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its member organisations, which includes government, state and city tourism bodies; international airlines and airports; hospitality organisations, and educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has official offices or representation in Beijing and London.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

THE GUGGENHEIM BILBAO: If you build it, they will come

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A shiny red sightseeing bus, a common sight in most European cities, might have been an anomaly here in Old Bilbao if not for the reinvention of Spain’s largest Basque city as a mecca for art and culture.

Bilbao’s most famous landmark is, of course, the Guggenheim Bilbao, one of the most admired and iconic works of contemporary architecture in the world. When it opened in 1997, it was hailed as the greatest building of its time, a brilliant 20th century masterpiece, artfully integrated by Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry into the former docklands of Bilbao’s 19th century urban environment and its surrounding area. It projects an image of the industrial power that drove this city to its former importance as a mining and shipbuilding centre on the Nervion river.

It rises out of the city’s jumble of buildings and styles like a mirage, its shimmering presence having transformed the decline and grime of a waning age of industry into a fantasy ship of contemporary art and culture on the banks of the river.

The river environment was polluted, an urban blight of gridlocked traffic and crumbling warehouses. A look at Zorrotzarre, Bilbao’s latest urban renewal project, whose Master Plan was designed by the late, great Zaha Hadid, is a glimpse of pre-Guggenheim riverside Bilbao. The state-of-the-art new football stadium, the Norman Foster-designed metro and its futuristic entrances, and the Zaha Hadid urban redevelopment all speak to a governmental awareness of the power of art and architecture to spark fundamental change. It worked spectacularly well for Bilbao.

The museum resulted from a partnership between the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation in New York and the governments of the city of Bilbao and the Basque region. The governments agreed to cover the construction cost, establish an acquisition fund, pay the Guggenheim Foundation a one-time fee, and subsidize the museum’s annual budget. The Guggenheim agreed to manage the museum, rotate parts of its permanent collection through it and organize temporary exhibitions. The “Bilbao effect” is a term economists use to refer specifically to the social and economic impact of the Guggenheim Museum, opened in 1997.

In the 26 years since the museum opened, the returns have been rewarding. The Guggenheim Bilbao remains a major attraction and has transformed a hard-to-get-to, why-bother-to-go-anyway city into a touristic must-see: since 1997, some 20 million people have visited this city of about 350,000. The Guggenheim became a strong global brand, vastly surpassing its origins as a small U.S. institution. In 2022, the year of its 25th anniversary, it welcomed 1,289,147 visitors, half of whom travelled from other countries.

They came to see the work of art that is the building in its own right. Gehry chose titanium for the museum’s outer skin. The finish of the approximately 33,000 extremely thin titanium sheets provides a rough and organic effect, adding to the material’s colour changes, depending on the weather and light conditions. The other two materials used in the building, limestone and glass, blend sculpturally with the titanium. In one corner of the second floor, the titanium sheets extend into the interior so visitors can actually touch them and get a close-up look at how they behave with the light.

Koons Puppy

Visitors came to see permanent and visiting exhibits of works by Spanish and international artists and the museum’s enormous Motherwell, Rauschenberg and Warhol masterpieces. In front, the enormous “Puppy” flower sculpture by Jeff Koons greets awestruck tourists (it is more than 40 ft. tall and is literally still growing; the flora are changed in spring and fall to reflect seasonality) and in back, visitors casually stroll through the legs of the outsize “Maman” metal and marble sculpture by Louise Bourgeois, one of the world’s largest and best-known sculptures (other versions are also on display at London’s Tate Modern and the National Gallery of Canada as well as in Japan, the United States, and Qatar).

Louise Boourgeois’ Maman

They came to walk around the well-known Richard Serra permanent sculpture installation – eight enormous works in hot-rolled steel collectively titled “The Matter of Time” in a huge gallery that is part of the sculptural field.

The Guggenheim Bilbao, building and contents combined, is a stupendous experience.

There’s a Frank Gehry quote that reads: “There’s a range of creativity possible and I think it behooves us to push the envelope.”

Thanks to the Guggenheim Foundation and Frank Gehry’s vision, Bilbao has become a destination for art pilgrims from around the world.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: June 12-16, 2023

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In last week’s news, Air Canada announced a return to Singapore after more than 30 years, also a new NDC deal with Sabre; Amex GBT reveals some interesting fare facts; there’s new rail booking platform in Canada; and Vancouver is set to get a swank new hotel.

NEWS

United Nations cultural and scientific agency UNESCO, which notably administers the World Heritage program – a significant driver of tourism interest – announced Monday that the United States plans to rejoin, and pay more than US$600 million in back dues. The move follows a decade-long dispute sparked by the organization’s move to include Palestine as a member.

Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) has launched “Jobs at Pearson,” a job portal that centralizes all airport opportunity in one easily accessible place for job seekers. The initiative helps the airport compete for talent and educate potential workers about available employment opportunities. It is part of wider airport recruitment strategy, including job fairs. At full capacity, Pearson provides employment for over 300,000 workers.

BMO Financial Group has closed its acquisition of the Air Miles loyalty rewards program in Canada. The bank says it plans to expand the program with new ways to earn and redeem points including an improved travel booking platform and a new way for collectors to earn Bonus Miles through receipt scanning. Air Miles is one of the oldest and largest loyalty programs in Canada, with nearly 10 million active users.

BY THE NUMBERS

Overall, flying will be far more expensive this summer, according to corporate travel manager American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT), which analyzed tens of thousands of client transactions on flights to and from Canadian destinations. However, amid the soaring prices, flights to Western Canada are bucking the trend. A typical Toronto-to-Montreal flight in economy class cost 20% more this year as in 2019, says Amex GTB, while an economy flight from Toronto to London, is a resounding 27% more expensive. Routes experiencing decreases are Calgary to Toronto (-10%), Toronto to Vancouver (-9%) and Edmonton to Vancouver (-11%).

AIR

Cathay Pacific Lounge

Cathay Pacific’s Vancouver lounge has re-opened. Located in the International Terminal between departure gates D70 and D71, the lounge originally opened in May 2016. The spaces measures 510 sq. m., with a seating capacity of 108 people offering a supremely comfortable exclusive environment of understated luxury in which passengers can relax before their flight out of Vancouver.

Air Canada will resume service to Singapore after more than three decades, effective April 3, 2024. Operating four times a week from Vancouver – Monday-Wednesday-Friday- Saturday – 787 Dreamliner flights will be the only non-stops from Canada to the southeast Asian city-state, and will offer a further gateway to Southeast Asia, Southern India and Western Australia with codeshare partner Singapore Airlines via Singapore’s Changi International.

Lynx launched its inaugural flights from Fredericton International airport (YFC) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Calgary International Airport (YYC) on June 12.

Flair Airlines has leased two new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The leases were facilitated by SMBC Aviation Capital, the world’s second largest aircraft leasing company. These Canadian-registered aircraft will enter service and fly Flair’s summer 2023 schedule, which has grown 35% year-over-year.

TECHNOLOGY

Sabre and Air Canada announced the completion of a new multi-year distribution agreement that provides Sabre-connected agencies with long-term access to Air Canada’s full content via NDC channels. The two companies expect to activate Air Canada’s NDC content in the marketplace within the coming months. Once Air Canada’s NDC connection to Sabre is live, the Distribution Cost Recovery previously announced by Air Canada will be waived for Sabre-connected travel agencies using this path.

DEALS

Through Aug. 31, Rocky Mountaineer’s latest family pricing discount offers US$700 per child (applicable for 17 years old and under sharing a room with a parent or guardian, max four per room) on any new SilverLeaf bookings for the Rockies to the Red Rocks route, a journey between Denver and Moab. Additionally, Rocky Mountaineer is extending its “Final Call” promotion through June 30, which offers CDN$1,000 off per couple ($500 p.p.) on all Canadian journeys and the same in USD on their US route in 2023.

This summer, guests at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort in Florida can enjoy the ‘Heavenly Spa Package’ with a $150 credit and 20% off over 50 treatments from therapeutic massage to hair, skin, nail, and facials and more. A family food and beverage package also available.

RAIL

International rail ticketing platform Rail Online has officially launched in North America with the promise of “fairer fares for American and Canadian passengers,” as well as carrier fare price matching, instant refunds on e-tickets, no foreign currency transaction fees, and customers able to book in Canadian dollars. Customers can currently book tickets with Amtrak (US), VIA Rail (Canada), National Rail (UK), and SCNF (France, including Eurostar), with further networks to follow, including Trenitalia (Italy), which will be introduced to the platform in the coming weeks. Providing 24-hour customer service thanks to offices in the UK and Australia, Rail Online tickets and an agent log-in can found at www.rail.online.

TOURS

UK-based entrepreneur, activist, and producer Aisha Shaibu-Lenoir has been appointed Contiki’s LGBTQIA+ Ambassador for 2023 ahead of the tour company’s summer Pride trips.  She will serve as Contiki’s voice of the LGBTQIA+ community, both internally and externally, with the aim of breaking down barriers and achieving visibility, equality and equity for all within the community. This summer, Contiki is hosting a Spain Pride trip with stops in Madrid, Sitges and Barcelona for the Pride Barcelona event as well as the Contiki Pride tour with a journey from London to Paris to Amsterdam for Pride Amsterdam.

An all-new “Spotlight on Northern Italy” tour will be launched by Collette in 2024 offering travellers a chance to spend a week in the region of Veneto. Collette’s Spotlight tours give travellers the opportunity to explore each destination to the fullest and get to know the area like a local. Must-see cultural highlights are always included, plus there’s plenty of time for them to explore independently, creating their own unique adventure. Tour participants will spend seven nights in Treviso and have the chance to take part in a cooking class, tour a winery, and embark on a full day tour of the Dolomites. Further itinerary details and prices are being determined and will be released soon.

HOTELS

A new addition to Vancouver‘s luxury hotel landscape is due in August with the opening of the AZUR Legacy Collection Hotel.  Boasting Art Deco design aesthetic, the stylish 104-room boutique property located at 833 West Pender St. will span 13 floors with lavishly appointed guest rooms, penthouse suites, and elevated dining options designed to give visitors and locals alike a respite from the hustle and bustle of the downtown core. The hotel will be the only property in Western Canada to join the Leading Hotels of the World collection of more than 400 boutique, luxury properties in over 80 countries across the globe.

The Istanbul New Airport Hotel is the first Trademark Collection by Wyndham hotel in Turkey. With 68 rooms, the newly opened property is located in the fast-growing Arnavutkoy district, 12 km from Istanbul Airport and with easy access to the nearby Mall of Istanbul and the Vialand Theme Park.

RESORTS

Marriott International is developing its first-ever Marriott-branded all-inclusive property at the site of the former Marriott Cancun Resort, which closed its doors last March to undergo an extensive renovation for its conversion. Expected to debut in early 2024, Marriott’s long-time legacy property in Mexico’s Yucatan region will be known as the Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort and promises a “sophisticated twist to the traditional all-inclusive concept” in tune with one of the world’s most exclusive resort destinations.

Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa is in the process of an expansion project that will result in an additional building featuring new event space, dining experiences and other amenities. The expansion will also add new, private luxury villas to the family-friendly property, located between Cancun and Cozumel, Mexico. While some of the project has already begun, much of the enhancement is planned for this summer

CRUISE

Silversea will host a live webinar for travel advisors and their clients on Australia’s Kimberley Region, and its expeditions there, on June 21 at 2 p.m. ET. The area is known for its fascinating gorges, canyons, ridges, cliffs, and horizontal falls, as well as mysterious, centuries-old rock art and local Aboriginal culture. Register for the webinar HERE.

BranchUp has recently added AmaWaterways as a preferred supplier to its social media marketing program. BranchUp provides travel advisors with free social media marketing that both engages clients and generates leads for vacation options presented by their preferred suppliers participating in the program.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

Las Vegas Tourism, represented in Toronto by Reach Global’s Charmaine Singh (l) and Kiesha Telesforo (front row, r), entertained some friends at a performance of Kooza, the latest Cirque du Soleil epic, in Toronto last week. Among those enjoying the VIP experience were ACV’s Elish Tait and Matthew Djorsey; Michelle Lanoue-Williams, WestJet Vacations; Elvi Cal, TravelBrands; and Audrey Tanguay Beaudette, Air Canada (front, l).

FAMS & INCENTIVES

Throughout June, Club Med is celebrating travel advisors with giveaways and a chance to win a stay at Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda or Club Med Québec Charlevoix. For more, visit For more, visit: https://traveladvisors.clubmed.com/great-advisors-loyalty-program/

EVENTS

Citing “significant confusion” among travel advisors, ACTA is hosting two webinars – one with Air Canada and one with Amadeus – to help explain the impact of Air Canada’s New Distribution Technology (NDC). The first of the webinars will take place on June 29, with travel agencies and advisors invited join sessions conducted with Air Canada in English or French. A second NDC webinar is scheduled with Amadeus on June 28. For the AC session, register HERE  and for Amadeus, HERE.

A summer webinar series from African Travel will illuminate agents on unique destinations from Botswana to South Africa, as well as trends in luxury safaris to the continent, including combo tours that allow clients to make the most of their experience in one journey. Remaining dates include June 29 – The Big 5 Safari Myths; July 20 – Top Southern African Journeys; Aug. 10 – Experience is the New Luxury; Aug. 31 – Exploring the Continent; and Sept. 21 – Mystery Topic. For more visit HERE.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Toronto-based destination marketing firm VoX International has been appointed to represent the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau in Canada. VoX will provide a range of public relations, trade, consumer, and MICE activities, including media and trade outreach, destination training, FAM trips and co-op marketing campaigns.

Contact account managers Cari Marotta (travel trade) and Debbie Wegiel (PR) at stmaarten@voxinternational.com.

The WestJet Group announced Michael (Mike) Scott as Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. The 30-year aviation industry veteran will start with the airline’s executive team on June 13.

DESTINATIONS

Heralding a new entertainment district for the GTA, a much anticipated billion-dollar resort located near Toronto airport is set to open on Tuesday (June 20) with a modern Vegas-style casino, hotel, live entertainment venue, and multiple on-site dining options. The Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto will officially open its doors at 5 p.m. on Tuesday (June 20) at a 13.4-hectare site located about 15 minutes from Toronto Pearson and adjacent to the well-known Woodbine Racetrack.

For four nights this summer, villages, castles, and parks in Germany’s Rhineland-Palatinate state will shine bright when fireworks illuminate them as about 75 elaborately decorated ships move in convoy along the river. The Rhine in Flames festival has five stops along the river and invites guests to enjoy music concerts and more as follows: July 1 – Bingen-Rüdesheim; Aug. 13 – Spay-Koblenz; Sept 9 – Oberwesel: Sept. 16 – St. Goar-St. Goarhausen.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1919, British pilots John William Alcock and Arthur Whitten Brown took off from St. John’s, Nfld., for the first non-stop transatlantic flight. They landed in a peat bog at Galway, Ireland, after flying about 3,100 km in just over 16 hours. The flight won them a $10,000 prize offered by the London Daily Mail, and both were awarded knighthoods.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Weeva Makes Waves at Trade Shows and Awards

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It’s been an exciting couple of months for Weeva as momentum gathers for the new digital sustainability management platform built FOR the tourism industry, BY the tourism industry.

In April, MD Julie Cheetham and Sustainability Content and Support Lead Nwabisa Mjoli were delighted to accept Weeva’s first Responsible Tourism Award for “Addressing Climate Change” at WTM Africa in Cape Town.

The new, disruptive data management technology also made it to the last three finalists from thousands of applicants for both the UNWTO Awake Tourism Challenge  and the Business Travel Awards Europe  for “Achievement in Sustainability: data and reporting”.

Weeva was also proud to sponsor the Sustainability Stage at the We Are Africa Open House in Cape Town in May, which included  a  special Africa edition of the “Funny Old World” podcast hosted by eco-guru Juliet Kinsman (Sustainability Editor of Conde Nast Traveller UK) and media pundit Simon London.

In this bonus episode they drew interesting insights from both experts and new voices in sustainable travel on topics including:

⚡Why you cannot shame the luxury traveller into being more sustainable

⚡How to spot the difference between marketing ploys and genuine action

⚡Tell don’t sell — why stories matter in today’s media landscape

⚡The lessons luxury tourism properties can take from manufacturing lines

Listen to the eco podcast here

Julie Cheetham, Managing Director of Weeva, also presented and facilitated an interactive sustainability masterclass at the Sustainable Travel & Tourism Agenda (STAS) conference alongside Dr Anne-Kathrin Zschiegner, Director of The Long Run, hosted at the Serena Beach Resort & Spa in Mombasa, Kenya from 8-9 June 2023.

Properties can view a demo video and sign up for a free trial.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

European Legends Hail Central Vietnam Potential as a Golf Hub

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European Legends Hail Central Vietnam Potential as a Golf HubSir Nick Faldo and Luke Donald praise region for its on-and-off course attributes. Two giants of European golf — Sir Nick Faldo, and Luke Donald — have added their voices to the chorus of approval surrounding Central Vietnam’s credentials as a golf destination.

“To my mind, Central Vietnam is near the pinnacle of places to play golf in Asia,” said Faldo, whose signature layout at Laguna Golf Lang Co is regarded as one of the best layouts in Asia. “The stunning landscapes of beaches and mountains are endlessly beautiful; the warmness of the people is a joy to encounter and there are wonderful golf courses to suit players of every ability.”

When Faldo and Donald express an opinion on golf it pays to take notice. After all, the English pair have decades of experience at the very highest level of the game. They have notched 58 professional wins between them. In Faldo’s case, six of these victories were major titles.

Both have starred in multiple Ryder Cup installments, with Donald due to perform a vital captain’s role when the biannual clash between Europe and US golfers takes place in Italy this September.

And their zeal for the golf options in Central Vietnam — not to mention an array of off-course attractions ranging from endless beaches, world-renowned cuisine, and luxury resorts — bodes well for the destination as golf travel returns with a vengeance.

“The topography of Vietnam is just unbelievable,” said Donald, whose design in the area, Ba Na Hills Golf Club, unfolds over rolling foothills amidst the dramatic peaks that back the coastline in Central Vietnam. “There are courses built around mountains and on sandy soil next to the ocean. The land is hard to match.”

The buzz about Central Vietnam’s layouts has grown almost as loud as the motorbike horns that soundtrack daily life in Danang.

Layouts such as Laguna Golf Lang Co and Ba Na Hills Golf Club are among Asia’s best courses. Ba Na Hills Golf Club features natural elevation changes, ravines, streams, and spectacular mountain backdrops. At Laguna Golf Lang Co, Faldo’s championship course threads between trees, over rice paddies and streams, through rock features, and alongside the pounding surf.

Other highlights for play, meanwhile, include courses designed by luminaries including Greg Norman, Colin Montgomerie, Robert Trent Jones Jr., and Jack Nicklaus.

“Asia’s top golf destination is not just recovering following the pandemic: it’s getting even better,” said Gary Dixon, general manager at Ba Na Hills Golf Club, one of the driving forces in the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC), a freshly rebooted destination marketing organization that links the region’s best signature golf layouts.

With high-quality golf combined with incredible beaches and luxury resorts like the award-winning properties at Laguna Lang Co — Banyan Tree Lang Co and Angsana Lang Co — Central Vietnam is arguably Vietnam’s hub for golf tourism. It offers a range of attractions, including the heritage sites in history-steeped Hoi An and the Golden Bridge at Sun World Ba Na Hills: a 150-meter-long pedestrian bridge that is one of Asia’s most photographed landmarks.

“Central Vietnam is a place you must see and experience to fully take in and appreciate,” added Faldo. “It’s a fantastic destination for tourism with great properties, great climates, and clean air. The outlook for it is amazing.”

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Holiday Inn & Suites Siracha Laemchabang Launches Vouchers Buffet

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Holiday Inn & Suites Siracha Laemchabang in Siracha part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, today announces its enticing new leisure promotion, ‘Vouchers Buffet: Buy Now, Stay Later’, providing guests with attractive package options and extra perks when purchasing multiple packages from now until 31 July 2023 for stays up to one year from the purchase date.

Package A: THB 35,000
30-night stay in a Standard room, including breakfast for 2 persons

Package B: THB 40,000
30-night stay in a One Bedroom Suite, inclusive of breakfast for 2 persons

Additionally, guests who purchase 10 packages will receive 1 complimentary package, other terms and conditions may apply:

  • Vouchers can be used for separate bookings and stay periods.
  • Each voucher entitles a guest to a one-night stay in either a Standard room or a One Bedroom Suite, including breakfast for two.
  • Vouchers are available for purchase from now to 31 July 2023 for stays up to one year from the purchase date only, vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash or replaced if lost, stolen or damaged.
  • Points and nights earned through IHG One Rewards are credited as usual.
  • Blackout dates may apply; guests are advised to make reservations at least 3 days in advance.

Holiday Inn & Suites Siracha Laemchabang boasts an all-day dining restaurant catering to diverse tastes, offering everything from authentic Thai to international cuisine. The lobby bar provides a delicatessen concept, and guests can enjoy the poolside bar and snack menu. The hotel also upholds the signature Holiday Inn ‘Kids Eat & Stay Free’ programme, providing additional value to families. Guests can indulge in leisure activities such as swimming in the 25-meter lap pool, relaxing in the sauna, or unwinding in the private onsen at the fitness club. With 347 rooms, Holiday Inn & Suites Siracha Laemchabang ensures a comfortable and relaxing experience for all guests, whether on a staycation or winding down after a busy day of work.

For more information, please visit https://shop.line.me/@hissiracha, email us at dmksr.sales@ihg.com, or call us at 033 251 699.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Khiri Travel and Cardamom Tented Camp Hailed Among the Best

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Two YAANA Ventures companies were lauded in the 2023 Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards for Asia Pacific, which were revealed 5 June.

Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia readers recognised YAANA Ventures’ Cardamom Tented Camp ecolodge in Cambodia and Khiri Travel, a pan-Asian destination management company, as among the best in the region.

Khiri Travel was acknowledged as a top five specialist travel agent, along with three others and category winners Scott Dunn.

In Cambodia’s beach and island upcountry hotel category, YAANA Ventures’ award-winning Cardamom Tented Camp was acclaimed fifth out ten illustrious properties, including high end resorts such as Song Saa Private Island, Six Senses Krabey Island, and category winner, Shinta Mani Wild.

YAANA Ventures’ Founder and CEO, Willem Niemeijer, received the awards on stage at a ceremony at the Park Hyatt Bangkok hotel attended by hundreds of travel industry leaders.

“Readers of Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia recognise that Cardamom Tented Camp and Khiri Travel punch above their weight in their respective categories,” said Niemeijer during the award event. “In terms of sustainability, value for clients, and quality of the guest experience, Cardamom Tented Camp and Khiri Travel walk among the best in a competitive region.”

In May 2023, Khiri Travel celebrated its 30th anniversary, growing from a start-up in a Bangkok shophouse in 1993, to one of Asia’s leading DMCs four decades later.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News