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Tourism Statistics Inform UN Reports on Sustainable Development

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Tourism Statistics Inform UN Reports on Sustainable Development - TRAVELINDEXNew York City, New York, United  States, July 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / A United Nations global assessment of progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) makes clear the important role that tourism must play in achieving the ambitious agenda for change.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Launched at the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, which this year is held around the theme of ‘building back better’ from the pandemic, the UN reports draw on UNWTO’s statistical work to track tourism’s role in delivering meaningful progress for people and the planet. Specifically, the UN SG Progress report on SDGs with its statistical annex will serve as an input to the deliberations of the HLFP. Alongside this, the Sustainable Development Goals Extended Report is aimed at the wider public and provides an overview of all 17 Goals with infographics, including those illustrating the relevance of tourism.

Prepared in collaboration with the entire UN Statistical System, the reports and their latest available data show that action is needed to accelerate the delivery on the SDGs and to step up national measurement efforts, including for the tourism sector.

As demonstrated in section on SDG8 (‘Decent Work and Economic Growth’), tourism a major force of development was one of the most affected economic sectors by the COVID-19 Pandemic as global GDP from tourism nearly halved between 2019 and 2020, with wide-reaching consequences for jobs, local businesses and conservation efforts.

On SDG12 (‘Responsible Production and Consumption’), UNWTO’s statistics serve to highlight the importance of national efforts to implement standardized tools like Tourism Satellite Accounts (TSAs) and the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA). Both underpin the UNWTO-led Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST) that assesses the social, economic and environmental impacts and dependencies of tourism—at national and sub-national levels -. These tools also underline the importance of multistakeholder collaboration which is fostered through the Sustainable Tourism Programme of the One Planet network.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

As countries build back better and aim to build more sustainable and resilient tourism, various policy frameworks have recognized the need for these measurement tools to guide their efforts and thus contribute to more evidence-based policymaking. Examples at the international and regional level are the UNWTO Recommendations for the Transition to a Green Travel and Tourism Economy  and the AlUla Framework for Inclusive Community Development Through Tourism, both welcomed and endorsed by the G20, the European Parliament resolution on establishing a strategy for sustainable tourism, the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework, UNWTO General Assembly resolutions and UN Statistical Commission decisions.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

NO BETTER PLACE TO RELAX: St. Vincent and the Grenadines ‘still here’

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Last week local media and partners gathered at the Radisson Blu on Lake Ontario in downtown Toronto to enjoy cool drinks and Caribbean flavoured delicacies while Glen Beache, CEO, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority (SVGTA) assured them that SVG “has not gone anywhere. We’re still here for the customers,” and, “You can still get to us anytime you want to. Air Canada will make sure of that.”

Beache noted that a lot has gone on over the past two and a half, to three years, as different countries had varied experiences and protocols. St Vincent and the Grenadines was the only Caribbean country not to close our borders, though he admitted, “At one point, with everybody around us being closed, it felt as if we were closed.”

However, after all the isolation, people have missed the interaction with each other, Not only did they miss welcoming people to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but even the interaction between their own citizens became difficult given the protocols in place.

“I think that’s one thing that it taught us, that no matter what technology does, just having that physical interaction, speaking to your family, friends, travelling, having that experience, meeting new people, experiencing new cultures – how important it is to us. I think a lot of people, as soon as the borders started to open up, as soon as the planes started to fly again, they were on.”

No tests or forms for fully vaccinated travellers

“I’m happy to say that for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, in terms of the protocols, once you are fully vaccinated, there are no forms to fill out, no testing to be done. If you are not vaccinated, you do have to come with a negative PCR test, and you do have to spend five days in quarantine. But Canada, which I love so much, which did a tremendous job of vaccination, I think you guys are 89%. So, I don’t think many Canadians will have to worry about that aspect. So that’s one of the great things about it.”

The most diverse destination in the Caribbean

Beache gave us a brief synopsis of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“We’re 32 islands and keys. Something I like to call the most diverse destination in the Caribbean. Matter of fact, the only two destinations that come close to us, notice I said ‘close’ to us, they’re not like us, are Bahamas and Jamaica, but outside of that, nobody else comes close to us. The diversity is beyond belief. We have a little bit of everything for everyone.”

St. Vincent’s the main island is a volcanic island, (the La Soufrière volcano, erupted last April, though fortunately there was no loss of life). There are black sand beaches and while many people love white sand beaches and are unfamiliar with black sand beaches, Beache says, “just to let you know, on a sunny day, the waters of a black sand beach are clearer than that of a white sand beach. And it’s one of the things that people don’t realize and don’t know.”

Head down to the Grenadines, to Young Island, Palm Island, and Petit St. Vincent. Then there is Bequia, which is the largest of the Grenadine Islands and a favourite of many people with its very laid back atmosphere and lovely properties.

Beache notes, “Mustique, which many of you probably heard of, which is lifestyles of the rich and famous, where the royal family goes to vacation, and your own Shania Twain.”

“And, Brian Adams.” added someone in the audience.

In Canouan, there is 5-star upscale Mandarin Oriental Resort, and Sandy Lane Marina, “which is probably the most beautiful marina in Caribbean. Brand new, where a lot of people get off the private jets across the road and they get onto their yards. But it’s something to behold. It is absolutely stunning.”

Playing favourites

Beche says, “Bequia is usually people’s favorite. Union Island is my favorite. Don’t ask me what is particular about it. It’s smaller than Bequia. But when I land in Union, I have a feeling of just complete relaxation. But I also believe that one of the reasons Union is my favorites because of its proximity to Petit St. Vincent and Palm Island. Petit St. Vincent is a favorite of mine also and Palm island”

The other island is Mayreau which has a beach called Salt Whistle Bay. It’s not a large beach, but according to Beache, “it’s the most beautiful beach you’ve ever seen. And if you’re judging beaches just by the quality of the sand and the water, it’s going to be hard to be Salt Whistle Bay. It’s that good.”

Then there is Tobago Keys where Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed, it is surrounded by Horseshoe Reef, so it’s very unique.

Salt Whistle Bay

“If you speak to many people who have visited between the Tobago Keys and Mayreau Salt Whistle Bay, it’s unique in what it has to offer. Those islands are uninhabited. And so, it’s where lot of the yachts go to and they thoroughly enjoy it. We also have a little island and it’s not included in the 32 islands and keys. It’s called Mopion.”

“Mopion is a bit bigger than this room,” he jokes as he and Shelly John, Director of Sales – St.Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism, pretend to size up the room in comparison to Mopion and decide the island is larger, but only depending on the tide.

“It’s absolutely lovely, people love it. Obviously, you have to get a boat to get onto it, but it’s well worth the trip.” Says Beache.

Niche markets

There are four main niche markets in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Sailing and yachting, is the number one. Diving which is unique because it’s the only destination that gives you both types of diving. Explains the CEO.

“Because St. Vincent’s a volcanic island, you have your cliff diving, small critters, that sort of stuff. Go to the Grenadines, you have more of your diving for ships, swimming with the turtles, that sort of thing. So, we have the diversity there.

Third niche market is of weddings honeymoons. And if you want to get divorced, we can make that happen too.” He says to laughter.

St Vincent and the Grenadines also offers hiking and other adventure travel.

Where to stay

As for accommodation, families with children tend to go to resorts, Airbnb has become as popular in SVC as it has globally, and a lot more people are using them. Additionally, the price range is so vast, there is something for everybody. Currently a Beaches Resort is being constructed which will be the first of the Sandals branded properties in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and is being called the flagship of Beaches properties – the first one in the Eastern Caribbean. The first phase of that should be completed by December of next year. And it will include a water park – so that’s very family oriented.

And that’s not all, designs are about to be completed by next month for the first Marriott resort in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. That will be 250 rooms. There is also a Royal Mills Resort – which is part resort and part residences. A Holiday Inn hotel is also under construction adding an additional hundred rooms. Canadian company, Pace, is also building condominiums, however news has just broken that Pace was to be acquired by Star8 Corp. So, stay tuned for news on that.

Getting there

One of the issues with St. Vincent and the Grenadines has always been access to the destination – getting there. Before the international airport was completed, travellers had to go through Barbados, Antigua, or Trinidad.

Now however, the completion of the international airport has made access much easier.

Air Canada is scheduled to return in November with one flight per week. That will increase in December to twice weekly. “And I’m hoping with your help, we do so well that Air Canada even puts on more flights.” Grins Beache.

“And I should also say that when we completed the international airport, Air Canada was the first international airline to fly into St. Vincent and the Grenadines directly.” He says, “So we do appreciate what they have done for us.

Palm Island

Discover SVG

“These are just some of the things that are on the horizon for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We have just started a new program called By Recommend, which is a training program for travel agents, tour operators,” (It was launched last week).

“Discover SVG program does have its incentives.” Says Beache, “I encourage all of you to go ahead and look at it. It’s something brand new. We think we’ve done a pretty good job, but there might be things that we have not seen. So if you have any advice, please feel free to reach out and let us know if something can be done better.”

“I think right now, hopefully we’re coming to the end of the pandemic. Can’t say so until WHO says that it’s the end. It just seems that these past two or three years, there’s always something, whether it’s a pandemic, for us a volcano, the war in Ukraine monkeypox. It just seems to be one thing after the other.

Beache says one of the things he has learned over the past couple of years and through the pandemic, is that you just have to try and look for the positives (rather than) to the negatives.

“And I think one of the things that puts people’s mind at ease is travelling. I think it’s something that really makes one relax, and there’s no better place to find that relaxation than St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SOMETHING IN THE AIR: ACTA golf seizes industry zeitgeist

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There was something in the air this year at ACTA’s annual golf tournament in on Thursday, no doubt fuelled by the back-to-business energy of industry attendees, even as two key ACTA execs were forced to stay home after testing positive for COVID-10 – proving the pandemic ain’t done with us yet.

Nevertheless, close to 160 participants turned out for the event (golf and dinner) at the Royal Ontario club in Milton, Ont., some coming in “from all over the country.”

One of them, Trevello’s (TPI) Zeina Gedeon, who arrived from Montreal, laughed that she actually hates golf, but felt it was an event she couldn’t miss.

Another, said that participating in the tournament previously was carefully weighed against invariably busy work schedules, but now, “you just have to be here.”

Ron Lonsdale of Collette was just one of many who couldn’t help but sense the vivacious vibe, declaring, “What a great day.”

ACTA’s Fiona Bowen, and Katherina Thilavanh

For many, seeing friends and colleagues for the first time in a couple of years was paramount.

“It’s nice to see so many smiles,” said one.

This year’s tournament was the first since 2020, last year’s cancelled due to, well, you know…

And unlike that last affair, this one boasted picture-perfect weather, while bubbling with energy – from the mini-Caribbean carnival at Antigua-Barbuda’s sponsored whole and an on-course Bajan rum bar, to two impromptu ovation-worthy singing performances (one of them an operatic aria) at the awards ceremony.

Prizes were at a premium as well, both on course and off, with title sponsor Air Canada notably giving away several trip prizes, as did the Antigua-Barbuda tourism board.

Jennifer Waver of sponsor Manulife – one of 30 on the day! – captured the zeitgeist, reporting that the insurance company is “closing more and more bookings” every day, and urging agents and industry members to “seize the moment!”

Indeed, Carla Brake of Globus family of brands, added, “Everybody in this room deserves a big cheer – we weathered the (pandemic) storm.”

She added that “ACTA deserves a big round of applause” for putting on such a stellar, well-organized event.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: July 11-15, 2022

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Making headlines last week: Mandatory random testing for COVID 19 returns at the country’s four main airports, a new codeshare partnership for Air Canada, SIXT sets up shop in Vancouver, London Heathrow limits passengers, and American Airlines gets the go-ahead to return to Cuba.

NEWS

Mandatory random testing of travellers arriving at Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, and Toronto airports will resume July 19 with all testing to be completed offsite for unvaccinated people as well as those who are fully or partially vaccinated. Ottawa paused the random testing of vaccinated travellers entering Canada by air on June 11 due to the drag effects on timely and efficient customs clearance for passengers.

Toronto’s Pearson International Airport has created a new online tool to help guide passengers through the current strained air transportation system. The interactive infographics, dubbed, “A Better Trip Through Pearson,” and “Solving for Congestion at Pearson” are available on the airport’s website and provide passengers with information on every step of their journey, from check-in and security to customs and baggage pickup, as well as revealing what airport stakeholders are doing to improve the process.

The federal government says that since April, close to 1,200 CATSA screening officers have been hired across Canada and that with this the number of personnel at Toronto Pearson and Vancouver International Airport is now over 100% of the targeted requirements for this summer based on projected traffic.

London Heathrow Airport has taken the unprecedented step of telling airlines to stop selling tickets as it caps daily passenger numbers at 100,000 for the summer travel season – a measure meant to quell travel chaos caused by soaring travel demand and staff shortages. Britain’s busiest airport said the passenger limit for passengers that it can handle each day will continue through Sept. 11 with the restriction likely to result in more cancelled flights even after airlines already slashed thousands of flights from their summer schedules.

US officials approved a request by American Airlines to resume flights to five destinations in Cuba that were stopped in 2019 when the Trump administration sharply curtailed air service between the two countries. The Transportation Department decision will let American resume flights from Miami to Santa Clara, Varadero, Holguin, Camaguey, and Santiago de Cuba.

BORDERS

All public COVID-19 health measures have been removed at land and sea points of entry to Belize. This includes proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID-19 test. Belize Travel Health Insurance is now optional.

Hong Kong has suspended a COVID-19 measure that has resulted in dozens of cancelled flights in recent months and thwarted travel plans for thousands. Previously, a five-day flight route ban was imposed on airlines if at least five passengers or five percent of travellers – whichever is higher – tested positive for the coronavirus on arrival. That caused about 100 flight cancellations since the beginning of the year.

CAR RENTAL

European car rental agency SIXT is expanding into Canada. The Munich-based company will open in Liberty Square in downtown Vancouver this month, then Toronto, with more locations to follow. The Canadian expansion follows the opening of several new locations across the US, where, with 36 locations (and plans to grow to 50), the company is the fourth-largest car rental agency. The company has a presence in 100 countries worldwide.

AIR

WestJet check-in services suffered a temporary system outage that caused flight delays and snarled travel across Canada Thursday morning. System outages affected both WestJet Airlines and air traffic control agency NAV Canada on Thursday, with travellers on social media reporting long lines and confusion at airports.

Air Canada and Emirates announced a codeshare agreement, set to take place later this year, that will offer enhanced consumer travel choices and conveniences for customers of both airlines travelling between Canada and Dubai, and the carriers’ networks beyond. Passengers will be able to take advantage of one ticket, through baggage to final destination, reciprocal frequent flyer benefits and reciprocal lounge access for qualifying customers.

The first Lynx flight from Edmonton International Airport took to the skies July 14, marking the commencement of five return services a week from Edmonton International Airport to Toronto Pearson International Airport and St. John’s International Airport.

BY THE NUMBERS

Airline industry losses are expected to reduce to US-$9.7 billion (improved from the October 2021 forecast for an $11.6 billion loss) for a net loss margin of -1.2%. That is a huge improvement from losses of $137.7 billion (-36.0% net margin) in 2020 and $42.1 billion (-8.3% net margin) in 2021, says IATA.

DEALS

Sunwing customers choosing a Cayo Largo, Cuba, getaway by July 28 for travel starting Nov. 1, can take advantage of early booking bonuses along with reduced deposits and other added perks. Five weekly direct flights will depart Toronto and Montreal (starting Nov. 4), Quebec City, and Ottawa (Dec. 17), and Halifax (Jan. 10).

TOURS

Tourcan has launched a new program called “Value Vacations” – group tours to exotic destinations that notably feature set departures with a minimum of two people (as opposed to the tour company’s tailor-made tours). All tours/safaris originate in destination, but Tourcan can handled consolidated air rates as well.

The new ‘Independence by Globus’ program enables clients to travel “untethered and unscheduled,” but with expert help and without the group. ‘Independent City Stays’ and ‘Independent Tours’ offers travellers a larger swath of featured destinations and countries around the globe. “Guests can look forward to enjoying travelling better in destinations across the globe, on their own, with hand-picked hotel accommodations, hand-selected optional excursions and the services of local experts to uncover the perfect ways to spend their days on vacation,” says Stéphanie Bishop, managing director for the Globus family of brands.

HOTELS

The boutique Grand Maloney Hotel in Key West, Fla. – a chic, six-bedroom property that dates back to the late 19th century – has opened at 529 Caroline St. after a nearly two-year restoration. Furnishings blend the hotel’s historic materials with luxury finishes and features such as a floor-to-ceiling yellow-tiled shower, an in-room original brick fireplace and colourful botanical print wallpaper. A newly built swimming pool and outdoor space offer an additional area for groups. The historic estate was purchased in 2019 by Key West–based Spottswood Hotels and named after Walter C. Maloney, a Spottswood ancestor who was elected Key West’s mayor in 1846. The hotel accommodates groups, and property buyouts are offered.

RESORTS

Reservations are now open for arrivals beginning May 24, 2023, at Sandals Dunn’s River Falls. The all-new 260-room resort is undergoing an extensive top-to-bottom restoration designed to embrace “the essence of Jamaica, its curving rivers, lush forests, and majestic banyan trees” – complete with fresh amenities, accommodations, and culinary concepts.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

Coconut Bay

Saint Lucia’s all-inclusive Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa  is offering Double Rewards of up to US$140 to travel counsellors as part of its CBAYREWARD$ program. Membership and rewards redemption are easy with no points to manage; simply join the program and register new bookings at CBAYRewards.com. The bonus reward is based on seven-night Deluxe Oceanview or higher bookings made by July 31 for travel Jan. 2- April 16, 2023. Plus, agents will earn 15% commission on direct, seven-night group bookings or 13% on all other direct bookings regardless of length of stay, as well as receiving one free night for every seven-night booking in a Deluxe Oceanview or higher room category. Clients can also receive up to 60% off on 2023 dates Jan-April.

Jamaica is celebrating the island’s 60th anniversary of independence this year and the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) invites agents to join in the celebrations. The “60 Nights of Surprises” and “60 Days of Fun Prizes” activations are running through Aug. 31 with daily prize giveaways and 20 trip giveaways to Jamaica. Each Jamaica booking during this time gives agents one entry into the draws. For details, click HERE.

AGENCIES

Travel Edge and Travel Edge Network, with a combined network of more than 800 advisors, have announced they have joined Ensemble Travel Group. The announcement follows the acquisition of Ensemble by Navigatr, which also owns Travel Edge Network and Travel Edge.

EDUCATION

The new St. Vincent and the Grenadines Expert Program has been designed to help introduce travel agents to the islands and provides tips to help close sales. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive an official DiscoverSVGPro certificate as well as three continuing education credits from The Travel Institute or ACTA, amongst other benefits and rewards, including a chance to win an all-inclusive trip for two to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. For details, click HERE.

EVENTS

A number of Caribbean tourist boards have come together for pop-up road show events in the Greater Toronto region, uniquely being held in various outdoor parking lots. Remaining dates for the upcoming Caribbean Tourism Associates trade show series include: July 19 – Barrie, Cineplex-North Barrie (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) and Newmarket, SilverCity (1:30 p.m.-3 p.m.); July 21 – Whitby, Landmark Cinemas 24 (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) and Markham, Cineplex Markham @ Birchmount (1:30 p.m.-3 p.m.); July 26 – Kitchener, Cineplex Kitchener @ Fairway (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) and Guelph, Galaxy Cinemas Pergola Commons (1:30 p.m.-3 p.m.); July 28 – Hamilton, Cineplex-Hamilton mountain (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) and Mississauga, Cineplex-Square One (1:30 p.m.-3 p.m.). Participating tourist boards include Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Martin, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, along with Couples Resorts and Caribbean Castles Resorts & Villa Collection. To attend, email ndrolet@jessonco.com.

Mark your calendar: Air Canada Vacations’ new collections will be introduced at an in-person event at the Mont-Royal in Montreal at 5 p.m. on Sept. 20. Note that there will not be a Toronto event this year. More details to come.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

The Globus family of brands has introduced new Senior Director of Marketing Ainsley Ericksen, who brings with her more than 20 years of travel industry experience, including her most recent stint as senior director, global marketing for Rocky Mountaineer.

Destination Canada has announced four new members of its board of directors, joining one returning member. They are Brenda Holder, Benjamin Ryan, Martin Soucy, Natalie Thiesen, and Julie D. Canning. Leaving after their terms have expired are Patti Balsillie and Patricia Macdonald.

DESTINATIONS
The 30th Anniversary of NYC Restaurant Week (photo) kicks off this week with 30 days of dining deals through Aug. 21. Diners can choose from a selection of two-course lunches for US$30, $45 or $60, and three-course dinners for $30, $45 or $60, dependent on individual restaurant price points. This pricing structure was created to ensure restaurants from all five boroughs can participate, from neighbourhood eateries to fine dining. More than 100 restaurants will also offer $30 bottles of wine to commemorate the 30th anniversary, available on participating menus. Mastercard holders can also pre-register for rebates. A list of participating restaurants is available HERE.

LAST WEEK IN HISTORY

In 1980, L’Anse aux Meadows, on the northern tip of Newfoundland where Vikings formed a settlement more than 1,000 years ago, was declared the first World Heritage Site by a special United Nations committee. Norwegian explorer Helge Ingstad found the site in 1960 after searching for the Vikings’ trail along Newfoundland’s coast for months, relying on 16th-century maps and ancient descriptions of Leif Ericsson’s transatlantic voyage.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ITB Asia Forms Strategic Partnership to Host Singapore MICE Forum

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ITB Asia Forms Strategic Partnership to Host Singapore MICE Forum - MICEindex.com - TRAVELINDEXSingapore, Singapore, July 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The parties will jointly organize the Singapore MICE Forum (SMF) event, which is scheduled to coincide with ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia, taking place as an in-person event in Singapore. ITB Asia is back and on track for a physical event in October and shines light on new collaboration with Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (SACEOS), the national trade association for meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions and events in Singapore. A corresponding partnership agreement has been signed between the two institutions to host the “Singapore MICE Forum” event, which will be co-located with ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia in Singapore.

• Discover Singapore with VisitSingapore.org, your travel guide, go to VisitSingapore.org

Singapore MICE Forum (SMF) is SACEOS’ premier annual event that brings together global and regional MICE players to foster partnerships and international collaboration. The one-day event will be held on 20 October 2022 at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. The event is expected to attract more than 250 meetings and event professionals and 50 expert speakers from the global MICE industry.

The partnership aims to leverage the extensive networks of business, government, and travel trade contacts to attract even more experts and key industry players, laying the foundation for new initiatives and activities for the MICE segment.

Through this new agreement, SACEOS will also be ITB Asia’s knowledge partner, curating high quality conference sessions within MICE Show Asia as well as providing insightful content and high-level speakers for the Singapore MICE Forum, which brings together industry players, promotes learning and uncovers trends from forward-thinking MICE leaders.

Katrina Leung, Managing Director of Messe Berlin (Singapore), the organiser of ITB Asia, commented: “Hosting Singapore MICE Forum (SMF) at ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia is a significant step in fostering and enabling growth in the MICE and Events sector in the region. We are looking forward to a successful partnership with SACEOS and leverage on its decades of experience in the MICE industry. Its educational approach and content will be a great asset to all ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia’s participants.”

Richard Ireland, President, Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (SACEOS), said: “The spirit of connection, collaboration and innovation has always been at the core of the MICE industry’s purpose. As business events in the region come back to life, there is no better platform for the industry to gain new insights and exchange views on new opportunities and trends than the Singapore MICE Forum (SMF). Driven by the partnership with ITB Asia, we are confident that the SMF 2022 will continue to be the choice networking and learning platform for the region’s MICE industry.”

MICE Show Asia, co-located with ITB Asia, will bring together global and regional meeting planners and event organizers for three days. Together with its partners SACEOS and IAPCO, the event will feature educational training sessions and workshops that caters to the needs of the industry. A dedicated hosted buyers’ program for MICE Show Asia is set to bring international buyers who are in-charge of travel procurement.

• Discover Singapore with VisitSingapore.org, your travel guide, go to VisitSingapore.org

About ITB Asia
ITB Asia, Asia’s leading travel trade show, is organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore) Pte Ltd and supported by the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau. The annual B2B trade show and convention will feature hundreds of exhibiting companies from the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East, covering not only the leisure market, but also MICE and corporate travel. Exhibitors from every sector of the industry, including destinations, airlines and airports, hotels and resorts, theme parks and attractions, inbound tour operators, inbound DMCs, cruise lines, spas, venues, other meeting facilities and travel technology companies are all expected to attend.

ITB Asia is the premier meeting place for the travel trade industry for forging new partnerships and strengthening existing business relationships with the most important players in the region.

About MICE Show Asia
MICE Show Asia is the premier MICE event in Asia where incentive travel, meetings and events industries come together to connect and build the future of MICE. The annual business-to-business trade show and convention featured industry suppliers, meetings & events professionals to up-and-coming MICE innovators from a wide range of disciplines, sectors, and all levels of seniority. The show is co-located with ITB Asia and Travel Tech Asia.

About SACEOS
Set up in 1979, SACEOS (Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers) is the trade association for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions & Events industry in Singapore.

In everything we do, SACEOS aims to advance the MICE & Events community, through serving and connecting industry players, driving initiatives that empower businesses, and leading advocacy efforts at industry and national levels.

We work closely with government bodies such as STB (Singapore Tourism Board) and ESG (Enterprise Singapore), industry players, universities, as well as regional and global industry associations to address key challenges and create new opportunities for the MICE & Events industry.

About Singapore MICE Forum
The Singapore MICE Forum (SMF) is recognised in Singapore and around the region as the choice event to connect industry players, promote learning and uncover emerging and evolving trends in MICE. And as business events in the region come back to life, there is no better platform for the industry to do just that than the SMF. The SMF 2022 will focus around 4 key topics – In Person Events with a Fresh Lens, Big Data & Analytics, Sustainability and Metaverse. Participants can look forward to dynamic panel discussions and glean expert insights from thought leaders within and outside of the industry.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Premature Return to Pre-Pandemic Slots Increases Passenger Disruption

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IATA - Premature Return to Pre-Pandemic Slots Increases Passenger Disruption - AIRLINEHUB.com - TRAVELINDEXGeneva, Switzerland, July 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expressed concern that a premature return to pre-pandemic slot use rules in the EU this winter risks continuing disruption to passengers.

The European Commission has announced it intends to return to the longstanding 80-20 slot use rule, which requires airlines to operate at least 80% of every planned slot sequence. Global slot rules are an effective system for managing access to and the use of scarce capacity at airports. The system has stood the test of time and while airlines are keen to restart services, the failure of several key airports to accommodate demand, coupled with increasing air traffic control delays, means a premature return to the 80-20 rule could lead to further passenger disruption.

The evidence so far this summer has not been encouraging. Airports had the 2022 summer season schedules and final slot holdings in January and didn’t evaluate how to manage this in time. Airports declaring that full capacity is available and then requiring airlines to make cuts this summer shows the system is not ready for reviving “normal” slot use this winter season (which begins at end of October).

“The chaos we have seen at certain airports this summer has occurred with a slot use threshold of 64%. We are worried that airports will not be ready in time to service an 80% threshold by the end of October. It is essential the Member States and Parliament adjust the Commission’s proposal to a realistic level and permit flexibility to the slot use rules. Airports are equal partners in the slot process, let them demonstrate their ability to declare and manage their capacity accurately and competently and then restore the slot use next summer,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Greenwashing Linked to Most Climate ESG Violations

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Greenwashing Linked to Most Climate ESG Violations - SUSTAINABLEFIRST.com - TRAVELINDEXZurich, Switzerland, July 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / RepRisk data finds one in every five climate-related global ESG incidents linked to greenwashing – increasing to one in three in the Food & Beverage sector

Data shows the issue of greenwashing and misleading communications in ESG is widespread, increasingly pressing, and underpinned by activities such as lobbying and offsetting

Recent research from RepRisk, a leading ESG data science firm combining machine learning and human intelligence to identify ESG risks, shows that over the past two years approximately one of every five climate-related ESG risk incidents (a potential violation by a company or specific project of global ESG standards) was linked to misleading communication, or ‘greenwashing’.

This value increases to one of every three incidents when looking only at the Food and Beverage sector – indicating an industry particularly prone to greenwashing. A number of recent examples in the public domain highlight this, including criticism of organizations such as Innocent Drinks, and Coca-Cola and Unilever.

The data also shows that the frequency of greenwashing is escalating rapidly in Europe and the Americas, with companies in these regions highly criticized and recording increasing numbers of greenwashing ESG incidents since 2019.

While companies are being held accountable more regularly and earlier in the process thanks to stricter regulatory initiatives such as the SFDR and EU Taxonomy, greenwashing still holds significant risk for businesses and their investors. RepRisk believes that by spotting potential risk of miscommunication issues early, and acting on them immediately, companies and stakeholders can mitigate these risks and avoid getting burnt.

“Greenwashing is no longer a trivial offense. Those who sell their products as ‘ESG compliant’ must ensure they’re fulfilling that promise – and they can expect significant fines in the future if they don’t. This is bad for them, and bad for their investors,” said Philipp Aeby, CEO and Co-Founder of RepRisk.

“The challenge in identifying and mitigating greenwashing is two-fold: the first is looking beyond the tick-box framework manner of self-reporting which allows companies to claim ESG compliance when that may not be the case. The second is bridging the knowledge gap regarding the actual behavior of companies. This involves going beyond inconsistent ESG ratings which make it difficult to distinguish between those with truly sustainable operations, and those that are misleading and miscommunicating – for example those publicly committing to climate action, but masking continuing issues that are out of sight further down the supply chain that could reverse progress on their climate action promise.”

Lobbying and offsetting were identified as two of the major drivers around recent greenwashing incidents – with the latter under scrutiny as a near-term solution with wider ESG implications (such as tree planting initiatives linked to the displacement of communities, and logging of trees after only a few years). Lobbying often goes unnoticed and is rarely mentioned in self-disclosure, but is an ESG risk area investors need to analyze carefully to understand the reputational risk of public action versus private lobbying efforts.

With an ESG dataset dating back to 2007, RepRisk has a unique perspective on the evolution of issues such as greenwashing as the ESG industry has grown. It exclusively analyzes public sources for information, without influence from company self-disclosure or PR efforts.

About RepRisk
Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Switzerland, RepRisk is a pioneer in ESG data science that leverages the combination of AI and machine learning with human intelligence to systematically analyze public information and identify material ESG risks. RepRisk’s flagship product, the RepRisk ESG Risk Platform, is the world’s largest and most comprehensive due diligence database on ESG and business conduct risks, with expertise in 23 languages and coverage of 205,000+ public and private companies and 55,000+ infrastructure projects. For more than a decade, the world’s leading financial institutions and corporations have trusted RepRisk for due diligence and risk management across their operations, business relationships, and investments.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PUBS, PATIOS & BARS: Curaçao bar is definitely ‘dushi’

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Sometimes, a pub, patio, or bar doesn’t constitute a destination until to itself (as much as we might imply otherwise), rather it simply compliments or enhances a place, providing a tiny, perfect piece of an otherwise marvellous mosaic.

Such is the humble “World Best Mojito Bar” in Willemstad, Curaçao, an establishment so sublime it can afford to disregard English grammar entirely in its marquee (if not the accompanying chalkboard).

World’s best mojito?

Then again, the delightful residents of Curaçao may be forgiven, as English doesn’t register as the primary language of the island (though spoken by all). It is also part of the melange that makes up the baffling local lingo, Papiamentu, which includes African creole, Portuguese, Spanish, and, of course, the island’s official language, Dutch.

But never mind, they had us at mojito, the cool Cuban concoction made of rum, lime, mint, and sugar, which, when packed with ice, goes down just as well in the scorching Dutch Caribbean as it does further north.

I tried a traditional mojito. Was it the world’s best? My sample size is not extensive enough – but it was very good, served in a pint-size glass filled with ice and liberally sprinkled with chopped mint, which permeated the entire drink, not just the top.

Touting 100 different kinds of rum sold by the bottle, that choice didn’t seem to be an option to the standard pour, but there were a large variety of flavoured options. My colleagues chose peach and strawberry respectively and pronounced them delicious.

Alcohol not for you? Not to worry, attached to WBMB is a smoothie bar, with a seemingly endless array of fruity creations, but without the booze.

Smoothie bar

Reportedly, one can purchase a drink and take it to go, but we chose to sit at one of the small tables out front, which inhabited part of pedestrian-protected Colombustraat (steps away from Wilhelminaplein square on the Punda side, where the giant Curaçao letters are). We asked a staff member to crank out the awning further, magically producing welcome shade.

Inside, the narrow bar was dark and seating was limited (and, frankly, not optimum),

So, we sat outside, in the shade, watching Willemstad go by, and come into, the rum the shop, local tunes humming in the background, before venturing out, to explore the world heritage-rated city.

Perhaps best described as mini-Amsterdam meets Miami in the Caribbean, Willemstad is famous for Dutch architecture, emblazoned in vibrant colours, street art, and a massive pedestrian bridge that connects the two sides of the city.

Which is to say, as stated earlier, that the mojito bar is not a destination unto itself, but simply a perfect launching pad to a wonderful travel destination. Or, one suspects, a place to relax at the end of a tour, or perhaps during it.

There’s a frequently used word in Papiamentu – dushi – which, while hard to precisely translate, essentially means positive vibes, or the good things in life.

Willemstad, and World Best Mojito Bar, are, in my books, definitely dushi!

Colourful Willemstad

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

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

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: Burton and Bachman at their best

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No. 1 in 1970, The Guess Who’s “American Woman” – from its iconic opening guitar riff to the memorable lines “I don’t need your war machines, I don’t need your ghetto scenes, coloured lights can hypnotize, sparkle someone else’s eyes” – is unquestionably a classic.

It has also been called the quintessential Canadian song, vocalizing the distinction we see in ourselves from our neighbours south of the border.

There are plenty of different versions of the song, including some by Americans themselves, like Lenny Kravitz, and there’s a Guess Who performance from the Ray Stevens show (remember his hit “The Streak”?) in 1970 on YouTube that will make you smile on so many levels, but I’ve chosen this cool, stripped-down version from a 2008 Burton Cummings-Randy Bachman rehearsal that provides a fresh take on the familiar song – one that maybe never really leaves the back of our minds.

And with B&B touring again together this summer, the timing seems appropriate to remember and celebrate two of Canada’s greatest musicians, Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings.

Lyrics

American woman, stay away from me
American woman, mama let me be
Don’t come hangin’ around my door
I don’t wanna see your face no more

I got more important things to do
Than spend my time growin’ old with you
Now woman, I said stay away
American woman, listen what I say

American woman, get away from me
American woman, mama let me be
Don’t come knockin’ around my door
Don’t wanna see your shadow no more

Colored lights can hypnotize
Sparkle someone else’s eyes
Now woman, I said get away
American woman, listen what I say

American woman, said get away
American woman, listen what I say
Don’t come hangin’ around my door
Don’t wanna see your face no more

I don’t need your war machines
I don’t need your ghetto scenes
Colored lights can hypnotize
Sparkle someone else’s eyes
Now woman, get away from me
American woman, mama let me be

Go, gotta get away, gotta get away
Now go go go
Gonna leave you, woman
Gonna leave you, woman

Bye-bye
Bye-bye
Bye-bye
Bye-bye

You’re no good for me
I’m no good for you
Gonna look you right in the eye
Tell you what I’m gonna do

You know, I’m gonna leave
You know, I’m gonna go
You know, I’m gonna leave
You know, I’m gonna go, woman

I’m gonna leave, woman
Goodbye, American woman
Goodbye, American chick
Goodbye, American broad

I don’t need your war machines
I don’t need your ghetto scenes
Colored lights can hypnotize
Sparkle someone else’s eyes

Now woman, get away from me
American woman, mama let me be
Go, gotta get away, got to get away, now go, go, go
I’m gonna leave you, woman
Gonna leave you, woman

Bye-bye
Bye-bye
Bye-bye
Bye-bye

You’re no good for me
I’m no good for you
Gonna look you right in the eye
Tell you what I’m gonna do
You know I’m gonna leave
You know I’m gonna go
You know I’m gonna leave
You know I’m gonna go, woman
I’m gonna leave, woman
Goodbye, American woman
Goodbye, American chick

-30-

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Maslina Resort Croatia Celebrates Its Annual Lavender Festival

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Maslina Resort Croatia Celebrates Its Annual Lavender Festival - VISITCROATIA.org - TRAVELINDEXHvar, Croatia, July 14, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / An abundance of lavender is found in vast fields on Hvar, the queen of the Croatian Dalmatian Islands and home to the five-star Maslina Resort. Situated in Stari Grad overlooking the crystal waters of Maslinica Bay, Maslina Resort, a Relais & Chateaux property that champions a philosophy of Mindful Luxury, will offer lavender-inspired activities during the two-day festival, which takes place on the 15th-16th of July. In addition to being the sunniest island in Europe, widely recognised for its healing environment, and accorded UNESCO heritage status, the aromatic lavender fields of Hvar are emblematic of the Dalmatian way of life. During the two-day celebrations, the entire island joins together to celebrate the evergreen plant’s historical and cultural importance.

There’s nothing that says summer more than smell of emanating their signature fragrance in the warm sea island air. This native European plant is a bushy, strong-scented perennial herb with lavender flower spikes rising above its grey to green foliage. It is not only a beautiful garden plant but also has significant culinary and medicinal value. Guests staying at the resort during the festival can participate in a complimentary art workshop with a locally based artist, where they can design lavender-inspired artwork to take away as a souvenir.

During the two days, in-house and walk-in guests can also try the resort’s Michelin-recommended restaurant specially curated Lavender Menu. The tasting menu starts with bite-sized lavender macarons with goat cheese and honey, followed by octopus with lavender caviar and green essence, beef fillet with a lavender and pistachio crust for the main course, and a lavender gel bonbon with lavender-infused cream, ice cream, and strawberries for dessert. The resort’s expert mixologist will also be on hand with a special vodka-based cocktail lavished with lavender syrup.

The resort’s Pharomatiq Spa, which follows a garden-to-skin concept, already uses lavender in its regular treatments, from eye covers infused with lavender flowers, essential oils used during massages, and little lavender soaps for guests after their therapies. The spa’s signature treatment, the Adriatic Rejuvenation treatment, takes you on an unforgettable journey through the world of Adriatic fragrances. A minced olive kernel and peppermint-infused exfoliation that will energise and uplift your senses are followed by oat milk and lavender soak that leaves your skin soft and velvety, and a customised aromatherapy massage that confers a sense of deep relaxation and pampering.

The annual lavender festival dovetails perfectly with the rich cultural and natural heritage of Hvar Island. Brought to life in the cultural, culinary, and therapeutic settings of Maslina Resort, the two-day celebrations expand the boundaries of the mindful luxury ethos that honours the natural world-a celebration for the body and soul.

About Maslina Resort
Maslina Resort is a contemporary, five-star resort on the Croatian Island of Hvar, located near Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in the eastern Adriatic. Situated in the stunning Maslinica Bay, Maslina Resort is surrounded by olive groves and terraced vineyards and stretches across two hectares of lush pine forest overlooking the crystalline Adriatic Sea. Boasting 50 rooms and suites and three villas, Maslina Resort is a mindful luxury resort that holds wellness, family, culinary arts, cultural heritage, and authenticity as its core.

Getting There
Many airlines including British Airways, Easy Jet, Jet 2, and Whizz Air fly from many regional and London airports direct to Split. The flight time is approximately two hours and 30 minutes. From Split Airport, the transfer by speed boat takes 60 minutes. Dubrovnik and Brač airports are also nearby. Private car and speedboat transfers can be arranged from any of these locations.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News