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Ultra Luxury Hotel Rosewood Xi’an to Open in 2026

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Ultra Luxury Hotel Rosewood Xi’an to Open in 2026 - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXXi’an, China, June 18,2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The ultra-luxury Rosewood Xi’an will occupy prime real estate within one of China’s most storied and attractive destinations. The hotel group continues its strategic global growth with the announcement of Rosewood Xi’an, an urban resort set to join the brand’s already robust portfolio of properties across China in 2026.

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

Located east of Xi’an’s Qujiang District, the property will provide leisure and business travelers alike with an ultra-luxury home base located in close proximity to major arts, shopping and tourism attractions. Representative of the brand’s guiding A Sense of Place® philosophy, wherein each Rosewood® property reflects its destination’s storied history, rich culture and unique spirit, Rosewood Xi’an aims to fully immerse guests in this dynamic destination. Known as one of the world’s four ancient cities, Xi’an is the starting point of the historical Silk Road and home to the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Other notable cultural sites nearby include the Du Lin Relics Park, Xi’an Botanical Garden and Grand White Deer Plain.

“We are pleased to continue our growth in China with the introduction of Rosewood Xi’an and remain steadfast in our commitment to expanding the Rosewood brand to the country’s most spectacular and culturally significant destinations,” said Sonia Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. “This development highlights the brand’s dedication to offering guests the unique opportunity to genuinely connect with and celebrate local cultures and communities all over the world.”

“We are so glad to partner with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts to create a global, high-end lifestyle and aesthetic in Xi’an,” says Wuliang Li , chairman of Vanzhong Group. “Rosewood’s 40-year-long A Sense of Place brand philosophy is a perfect fit with Vanzhong Group’s vision. Together, we will create a destination for amazing experiences of impeccable service and new-era luxury, as well as a special place for spiritual journeys of deep cultural connection.”

Rosewood Xi’an will feature a total of 180 rooms and suites in addition to four food and beverage outlets including a casual bistro, Chinese restaurant, specialty restaurant and a bar. The hotel will also offer the brand’s exclusive executive lounge, The Manor Club, as well as Asaya, Rosewood’s integrative well-being concept, which will feature eight treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center and a Rosewood Explorer’s club with a plethora of activities for children.

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

Rosewood Xi’an is the latest development announcement for the Rosewood Hotels & Resorts brand, adding to a strong pipeline of projects set to open in China in the coming years, including Rosewood Shenzhen (2025), Rosewood Chengdu (2026), Rosewood Hangzhou (2026) and Rosewood Shanghai (2028).

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Aviation Leaders Assemble in Doha for IATA’s AGM

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Aviation Leaders Assemble in Doha for IATA's AGM - QATARTOURISM.org - TRAVELINDEXDoha, Qatar, June 18, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA), announced that leaders of the global aviation industry are gathering in Doha, Qatar, for the 78th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS), with Qatar Airways as the host airline.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Qatar and the FIFA World Cup 2022, go to QatarTourism.org

The event (19-21 June) attracts the industry’s most senior leaders from among IATA’s 290 member airlines, as well as leading government officials, strategic partners, equipment suppliers, and media.

“In a few days, Doha will become the aviation capital of the world. The last time we met in Doha, in 2014, we were celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first airline flight. This year’s AGM is another momentous occasion: Airlines are simultaneously recovering from the COVID-19 crisis, setting the path to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, working to improve gender diversity, and adapting to a geopolitical environment that is undergoing its greatest shock in over three decades,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker said: “It is an absolute privilege to be hosting our industry partners in Qatar Airways’ home city, particularly during our milestone 25th year of operations. Coming together face-to-face provides us with the opportunity to discuss lessons learnt from our recent years during the pandemic, global issues affecting us all in the here and now, and to plan the best way forward for the industry.”

World Air Transport Summit

The WATS opens immediately following the AGM. A highlight will be the third edition of the Diversity and Inclusion Awards sponsored by Qatar Airways. These awards recognize organizations and individuals who are making a difference in helping to drive the industry’s 25by2025 initiative to make the aviation industry more gender balanced.

The WATS will also feature the popular CEO Insights Panel moderated by CNN’s Richard Quest and featuring Adrian Neuhauser, CEO, Avianca, Pieter Elbers, CEO, KLM, Akbar Al Baker, Group Chief Executive, Qatar Airways and Jayne Hrdlicka, CEO, Virgin Australia.

In addition to the updated industry economic outlook, key topics to be addressed include: the War in Ukraine and its implications for the globalized world; the challenges to achieving sustainability, including net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and reducing the use of single use plastics, allocating scarce airport capacity, and ensuring safe carriage of lithium batteries. New for 2022 is a CFO Insights Panel.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Qatar and the FIFA World Cup 2022, go to QatarTourism.org

This will be the fourth time that the AGM is hosted in the Middle East. In normal times, aviation in the region supports some 3.4 million jobs and $213 billion in economic activity. “Since we were last in Doha, the region has only increased its importance to global connectivity. According to the most recent figures, the region’s airlines account for 6.5% of global international passenger traffic and 13.4% of freight movements. Much of this growth has occurred in the Gulf region, as is typified by our host airline,” said Walsh.

Attendance at the AGM is by invitation only. Accredited media are invited to attend but must be pre-registered.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Travelindex Group Honored to Participate in UNWTO Executive Council in Jeddah

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Travelindex Group Chairman Bernard Metzger Honored to Participate in UNWTO Executive Council in JeddahJeddah, Saudi Arabia, June 17,2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has honored the Travelindex Group Founder and Chairman Bernard Metzger to participate as a media participant at the 116th UNWTO Executive Council in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Mr. Metzger joined the gathering of public and private leaders where the United Nations specialized agency called for the construction of a new and reimagined system of governance and financing with the aim of building resilience against future shocks while also making tourism more sustainable.

The UNWTO continued with its tradition of complementing the important deliberations of its Executive Council with an open discussion on the biggest challenges and opportunities for the sector. The Forum “Tourism Futures – New Governance and Advocacy”, featured two distinct sessions – “Towards a New Tourism Governance” and “Raising Tourism’s Visibility” outside of the sector.

“Now is the time to think big”, said the UNWTO Secretary-General welcoming delegates and speakers. Zurab Pololikashvili stressed the need to “realize tourism’s unique potential to drive recovery, provide opportunity and build resilience, through better and stronger governance and focusing on jobs, training and education”.

Mr. Metzger’s participation focused on the objective and fair reporting of all discussions addressing key emerging trends and insights from across the industry and helping to identify what may impact the future of tourism, and the role that the industry can play to ensure its transformational future.

The 116th Executive Council closed with the Jeddah Call to Action, a commitment to rethink tourism governance. Jeddah Call to Action recognizes the vital need for more and better tourism governance, with targeted investments and a focus on building resilience, advancing sustainability and expanding education and training. It forms part of UNWTO’s wider work ensuring the recognition of tourism reflects the sector’s unique social and economic importance, including through making it a key part of the work of the United Nations and securing the cooperation of governments, international organizations and financial institutions.

More about Travelindex Group here…

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Le Nautique Luxury Waterfront Hotel Seychelles Recognized Among Best in Africa

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Le Nautique Luxury Waterfront Hotel Seychelles Recognized Among Best in Africa - VISITSEYCHELLES.org - TRAVELINDEXLa Digue, Seychelles, June 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Le Nautique Luxury Waterfront Hotel has been recognized by Tripadvisor as a 2022 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best award winner for Small Hotels ranking 23 out of 25. In a year of fierce competition and shifting traveler preferences, Le Nautique Luxury Waterfront Hotel outperformed expectations and was named one of their favorites.

Based on a full year of Tripadvisor reviews, the Travelers’ Choice Awards honor the best in travel, recognizing the places that delivered the most exceptional experiences.

“Le Nautique Luxury Waterfront Hotel is honored to have been selected by TripAdvisor as one of the Best of the Best for 2022.” To be considered within the top 1% of hotels worldwide and within the top 25 small hotels in the African region is the greatest compliment that our guests could have bestowed on us. Le Nautique Luxury Waterfront Hotel has only been operating for 4 years but in this time our wonderful team has always strived to offer the best of the best in everything we do. To receive this award truly reflects the hard work and dedication of each and every one of our team members, and for that we thank you all, “said Natasha St Ange, Director.

Kanika Soni Chief Commercial Officer at Tripadvisor, congratulated Le Nautique Luxury Waterfront Hotel and Natasha St. Ange and said, “The Travelers’ Choice Awards recognize the best in tourism and hospitality, according to those who matter most: the guests.” Ranking among the Best of the Best is always tough-but never more so than this year as we emerge from the pandemic. Whether it’s using new technology, implementing safety measures, or hiring outstanding staff, I’m impressed by the steps you’ve taken to meet travelers’ new demands. You’ve adapted brilliantly in the face of adversity. ”

Travelindex Group extends warm congratulations to the owners, management, and staff of the hotel on this achievement.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

LISTENING IN: The Mavericks, magnifico

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A self-described “eclectic rock and country group known for crisscrossing musical boundaries,” The Mavericks have been making feel-good sounds for over 30 years, not least based on distinct Latin underpinnings that often demonstrate Mexican or Cuban influences.

Sometimes called Tex-Mex, the band is actually from Miami, which also belies its common characterization as a country band. Indeed, sometimes they sing in Spanish and recently went “all in” on their Latin heritage and released an entire non-English album, with songs ranging “from tender boleros to brassy mariachi to reimagined Afro-Cuban classics.”

But whatever you call them, Raul Mallo and Co. – like Los Lobos from the other coast (Los Angeles) – have consistently charted their own course, with hits like “Come Unto Me” and “All You Do Is Bring Me Down” prominently utilizing accordion and horns to temper the requisite guitar-base-drums format.

Here is perhaps their most enduring hit, the infectious “Dance the Night Away,” from Top of the Pops in 1998, the year it was released.

Lyrics

Here comes my happiness again
Right back to where it should have been
‘Cause now she’s gone and I am free
And she can’t do a thing to me

I just wanna dance the night away
With señoritas who can sway
Right now tomorrow’s lookin’ bright
Just like the sunny mornin’ light

And if you should see her
Please let her know that I’m well, as you can tell
And if she should tell you
That she wants me back, tell her no, I gotta go

I just wanna dance the night away
With señoritas who can sway
Right now tomorrow’s lookin’ bright
Just like the sunny mornin’ light

And if you should see her
Please let her know that I’m well, as you can tell
And if she should tell you
That she wants me back, tell her no, I gotta go

I just wanna dance the night away
With señoritas who can sway
Right now tomorrow’s lookin’ bright
Just like the sunny mornin’ light

I just wanna dance the night away
With señoritas who can sway
Right now tomorrow’s lookin’ bright
Just like the sunny mornin’ light

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Global Design Transformation of Sheraton Hotels & Resorts Builds Momentum Across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa

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The brand’s new design approach is built upon creating an intuitive experience with spaces to gather, relax, and work. Pictured above: Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel and Conference Center

The transformation of Sheraton Hotels & Resorts – the most global brand within Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands – continues to gain momentum in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) with five redesigned properties exemplifying the modernized design concept: Sheraton Amsterdam Airport, Netherlands; Sheraton Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Sheraton Frankfurt Airport, Germany; Sheraton Grand Krakow, Poland; and Sheraton Djibouti, Djibouti. The refreshed hotels join the growing number of properties around the world displaying the brand’s design transformation, with nearly 50 hotels globally including four other properties in EMEA that are expected to be completed by year’s end.

“Following the transformation of three marque hotels in Tel Aviv, Dubai, and Istanbul, we’re excited to welcome five additional hotels in EMEA entering a new chapter showcasing the brand’s new vision,” said Amanda Nichols, Global Brand Leader, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. “As Sheraton continues to inspire new journeys this year, we look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy all the familiar comforts of the brand, but with fresh, contemporary updates.”

The new approach draws on the brand’s roots as a community hub with places to connect and be productive. The design balances timelessness with a fresh and modern feel, creating an environment where guests feel comfortable and at ease whether working, meeting or relaxing. Built with its global, productivity-focused guest in mind, Sheraton’s new elevated food and beverage philosophy and seamless technology integration are additional focal points of the brand’s transformation.

Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel and Conference Center, Netherlands

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Following extensive renovations over the past year, Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel and Conference Center presents an elevated airport hotel experience. With direct access to Schiphol International Airport, the 417-room hotel is an example of the next generation of airport hotels. Bringing together intuitive design and technology, the renovation draws inspiration from the hotel’s location with sophisticated guest rooms inspired by Dutch flower fields, grasslands, and the architecture surrounding Schiphol Airport. Refreshed guest rooms feature new tools for productivity while still retaining some of the classic Sheraton signature amenities including the renowned Sheraton Sleep Experience bed. The guest room bathrooms have also been completely redesigned with new modern walk-in showers and Sheraton bath amenities. Public spaces and amenities aimed to foster a sense of community and ignite productivity include the brand’s signature Community Tables, tech-enabled Studios, and purpose-built workspaces, found in the expansive lobby.

In line with the brand’s elevated food and beverage philosophy, all day-dining Commune Restaurant offers a vegetarian-forward menu with locally sourced ingredients, Dutch beers, and gin varieties.

Sheraton Jeddah Hotel, Saudi Arabia

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Jeddah’s iconic Sheraton Jeddah Hotel has been a landmark of the city’s waterfront for more than 30 years, with an exclusive location on the North Corniche, just a short distance from the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Following a year-long renovation, Sheraton Jeddah Hotel offers 172 completely redesigned rooms and suites. From spacious 300 square feet to an expansive 1,485 square foot Royal Suite, each guest room is flooded with natural light featuring soft finishes and light wood tones, tools for productivity and breath-taking views of the Red Sea.

A focal space of the hotel’s transformation, the elevated and expansive lobby is reimagined as a holistic, open area. Here, all-day dining venue Thrive Café serves international and local cuisine, and the brand’s Community Tables, tech-enabled Studios, and Booths provide communal or private spaces to work and connect.

Surrounded by local attractions, the hotel is a popular leisure destination for residents and travellers with direct access to explore the Red Sea’s coral reefs either snorkelling or diving. Additional facilities include three elevated dining venues, an outdoor swimming pool, Sheraton Fitness Center, five meeting rooms, and a ballroom with private access.

Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel & Conference Center, Germany

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Elevating the traditional airport hotel experience at Germany’s busiest airport, Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel & Conference Center has been transformed following a three-year renovation with enhancements to its premium guest rooms and suites, and Sheraton Club. A captivating new arrival experience greets guests as they walk from the airport terminal through the doors of the hotel. A new atrium bar, The Eatery, in the heart of the hotel lobby, serves up a taste of a US-inspired menu from morning to evening in a vintage-style, laid-back, and welcoming atmosphere.

Additionally, the new public spaces at the hotel feature the brand’s Community Table and Studios, and as one of the main airport hotels in Europe, the 58 meeting rooms are ideal for conferences or events of up to 1,200 people. As part of the property’s phased transformation, the exclusive Sheraton Club offers a new look, experience, and service style. The nearly 3,000 square feet of gathering space is welcoming and transitions from morning to evening offering complimentary food and beverage.

Sheraton Grand Krakow, Poland

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Located at the foot of The Royal Wawel Castle, on the banks of the Wisla River, Sheraton Grand Krakow is steps away from Wawel Cathedral and the city’s Main Market Square. The hotel’s 232 residential style rooms and suites are beautifully renovated and offer serene, bright spaces with captivating views over the city. The newly transformed lobby is located in a large central atrium, and is a contemporary take on the steel and glass pavilions found around the city. Here, the cityscape and natural world marry to create a modern interpretation of the hotel’s surroundings with a spacious internal garden and multi-function places to work, socialise, or relax. Stylish, welcoming, and open the lobby features Sheraton’s Community Tables, Studios and Booths. The hotel’s newest culinary concept, Amina, is a sophisticated place where guests can gather and enjoy Italian dishes and authentic cocktails. Additional facilities include a Sheraton Club lounge, rooftop lounge and bar, indoor pool, 24-hour fitness room, and meeting spaces.

Sheraton Djibouti, Djibouti

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Located on the Plateau du Serpent in the old Diplomatic Quarter and walking distance from downtown, Sheraton Djibouti was the first international hotel to open in the capital and holds special memories for many Djiboutians who have gathered at the hotel for family occasions and cultural celebrations over the hotel’s 40-year history. The 185-guest room hotel is the first Sheraton in Africa to debut the brand’s new vision following a multi-million-dollar investment. The new lobby serves as the heart of the guest experience featuring a refreshed and contemporary aesthetic, and new signatures such as Community Tables, Studios, and &More by Sheraton. Additional amenities include a sophisticated Sheraton Club lounge, swimming pool, private beach, 24-hour fitness room, updated meeting spaces and ballroom, and phased remodeled guest rooms and suites.

These five newly reimagined hotels join Sheraton Tel Aviv, Sheraton Grand Dubai, and Sheraton Istanbul Levent as transformed properties in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Sheraton continues its transformation journey in the region with the brand expecting additional hotels to showcase the new modernized look later this year in France with Sheraton Nice Airport and Sheraton Bordeaux Airport, in Turkey with Sheraton Istanbul Esenyurt Hotel, and in UAE with Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort.

For hi-res photos of the redesigned hotels, please click here.

To find out more visit the Sheraton Experience online.

Note on forward-looking statements:

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to expected hotel renovations and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Sheraton® Hotels & Resorts

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts makes it easy for guests to feel welcome at over 430 hotels and resorts in nearly 75 countries and territories around the world. As the most global brand within Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of extraordinary hotel brands sitting at the center of hundreds of communities around the world, Sheraton has a rich heritage in creating a sense of belonging for guests, wherever they are in the world. Sheraton is currently undergoing a major brand transformation, creating a signature community experience for the next generation of travelers and locals alike at properties across the globe. The new vision for Sheraton features intuitive design, tech-forward experiences, and upgrades to everything from public space and F&B to flexible meeting space. To learn more, visit www.sheraton.com. Stay connected to Sheraton on Facebook, and @sheratonhotels on Twitter and Instagram. Sheraton is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

Media Contacts

James Bardwell
Global Communications, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts
James.Bardwell@marriott.com

Claire Liddell
Consumer PR – Middle East & Africa
Claire.Liddell@marriott.com

Lauren Singleton
Consumer PR – Europe, Middle East & Africa
Lauren.Singleton@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO: Asia and Pacific Leaders Look to Innovative and Resilient Tourism

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UNWTO Asia and Pacific Leaders Look to Innovative and Resilient Tourism - TRAVELINDEXMale, Maldives, June 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism leaders from across Asia and the Pacific have placed building resilience and embracing innovation at the heart of the sector’s restart and sustainable future.

The 34th Joint Meeting of the UNWTO Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and the UNWTO Commission for South Asia (34th CAP-CSA), was held as destinations across the region begin welcoming back international tourists. The region was hit first and hit hardest by the pandemic’s impact on tourism as many countries maintained strict restrictions on travel. Now, as UNWTO data confirms a 64% increase in international arrivals in the first quarter of 2022 compared to 2021, the high-level meeting of sector leaders identified the key challenges and opportunities ahead.

UNWTO’s Work in the Region

For many millions of people across Asia and the Pacific, tourism is an essential lifeline

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili provided an overview of tourism trends and statistics, both for the region and globally, followed by an update on the Organization’s work in the months since the previous Joint Commission meeting (hosted virtually by Spain in 2021). He stressed the importance of working together to lift travel restrictions, with coordination key to restarting tourism and for restoring confidence in international travel. “For many millions of people across Asia and the Pacific, tourism is an essential lifeline. Its return is vital and must be based around the pillars of inclusion and sustainability, for the benefit of all”, he said.

The meeting was the first in-person gathering of the CAP- CSA for two years and brought together representatives of 19 Member States, as well as from UNWTO’s network of Affiliate Members. Welcoming delegates, Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, Minister of Tourism of the Maldives and Chair of the Joint Meeting, added: “Though the road to recovery is still uncertain and many challenges remain, global coordination through similar platforms will open up the opportunity to build back more comprehensively towards a sustainable, inclusive and resilient tourism sector for the future.”

Resilience through Innovation

The 34th CAP- CSA was held in the Maldives as the country celebrated 50 years as an international tourism destination. Against the backdrop of the Golden Jubilee, the Ministry of Tourism of the Maldives and UNWTO also partnered to host a Ministerial Roundtable on Tourism Resilience through Innovation and Digitalization in Asia and the Pacific. Recognizing the vulnerabilities exposed by the pandemic, the discussion explored ways in which new technology and new ideas can help better protect tourism against shocks including future pandemics as well as extreme weather events.

Concluding the joint meeting, Member States voted to hold the next gathering in Cambodia in the first semester of 2023. On the back of the high-level meeting, UNWTO will host a two-day Global Summit on Community-based Tourism, bringing public and private sector experts together to focus on the potential of gastronomy tourism, agro-tourism and community-based tourism for sustainable and inclusive development.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Smart Finder Reveals Business Expansion and New Product

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Smart Finder Reveals Business Expansion and New Product - HOTELWORLDS - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, June 16,2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Smart Finder, Thailand’s leading one-stop software developer for the hospitality industry reveals its growth figure for Q1 of 2022, which surpassed that of the previous year, creating confidence for the business’s continued growth and further expansion into new verticals and territories. The Company also reveals partial information about its new cloud-based products which will be launched in 2022.

Mr. Soros Raktham, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Smart Finder stated that the COVID-19 pandemic seriously impacted the business. “Since we developed all solutions only for the tourism and hospitality service industries. Never, throughout the 25-year history of the company, had innovation and diversification been this important. It took vision, courage, and team effort, not just to get through the pandemic, but to come out bigger and better”.

Currently, the company has over 1,000 customers; the majority are Thailand-based hotels. The pandemic saw several of Smart Finders’ clients closing their properties or even dissolving their businesses, while others adjusted their focus to the domestic tourist market.

Before establishing the software development company, Mr. Soros was a hotelier, accountant, and auditor. With over 10 years of “hands-on” experience in the industry, he understands the challenges and burdens (of expenses) of running hotels.

As Mr. Soros believes that “Developing software requires collaboration and sharing of ideas within all the teams, partners and customers alike, to understand their pain points and fulfill the needs of their businesses”.
Hence, Smart Finder essentially acts as a solutions provider for its customers, to facilitate their business’ success.

Smart Finder adopted the “Go together, go further” approach by offering several “survival solutions” to their customers, including offering discounts and flexible payment terms. By doing so, both parties would mutually bear the financial hardship brought on by the pandemic. This approach has cemented the trust leading to better relationships.

In Q4 of 2021, the Company’s turnover fell by 25%. But because of the Company’s efficient cost and expense management, the business could get through the crisis.

In 2019, pre-Covid, Singapore-based SEA GARENA; the region’s biggest startup investment company, invested an undisclosed amount in Smart Finder after considering the potential of the solutions developed by the Thai team.

They made funds available to further develop the company’s three main products for the cloud namely, Property Management System (PMS), Point-of-Sale (POS), and Back-office System (BOS). As well as a range of “self-service products” focusing on a mobile guest application (GSA) and a self-service kiosk. All products are due to be launched later this year and are set to come with fully integrated payment solutions, making it easier, faster, safer, and competitive for customers to use.

The new software will be more customizable and scalable, thus more applicable to a wider range of businesses beyond hotels, such as entertainment complexes, spas, amusement parks, waterparks, and serviced accommodations.

Venues may choose to use our new products either with a cloud server, an on-premise server, or both (hybrid), thus providing a solution for all types of clients, venues with no restrictions on size or location. Also included in the new range of products will be a new mobile application for the employees featuring task management, approvals, etc. adding agility and efficiency while simultaneously managing your teams.

The full cloud suite of products will initially be launched in regional markets. In Q4 of this year, Smart Finder will be rolling out pilot projects in Thailand as well as neighboring countries including Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia, with tourism similar to Thailand’s.

Mr. Soros stated that “for the course of business this year, we are determined to deliver our new products with greater efficiency and better features. I am privileged to have an extremely experienced team. Some of which have been with the company for 15-25 years and have a very deep knowledge of our customers’ needs, resulting in developing – not just what they want – but also being able to give them what they need”.

Mr. Soros additionally concluded that “we have set out an ambitious 5-year plan to take our products International. We are establishing a new Global HQ in Singapore and building a team of international experts and partners to help us grow in new markets”.

The new SORASO system is a culmination of 25 years of experience of Smart Finder in Thailand. Therefore, Smart Finder will act as a representative of the Thai technology industry by introducing Advanced Software Solutions to the global markets.

Smart Finder was founded in 1997 and has steadily grown to become a leader in management software for hotels, restaurants, and tourism in Thailand with above 1,000 business partners in Thailand. The Company won the excellent software award from the ICT Awards in 2015 as the first company in Thailand. This year, Smart Finder’s next chapter will include International expansion by debuting the new company, SORASO, to be registered in Singapore. Smart Finder also aims to list on the Stock Exchange of Thailand through an initial public offering by 2027.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IT’S A BIG SHOW: IPW 2022 signals a comeback for tourism

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The essential question at IPW 2022 in Orlando last week was, “when will the pre-departure testing requirement for inbound vaccinated air travellers to the US be eliminated.” Though US Travel Association President and CEO Roger Dow, and Brand USA President and CEO Chris Thompson, assured media and delegates that everything possible was being done to convince the powers-that-be of the importance of acting quickly, there really was no answer available. However, with typical bureaucratic shortsightedness, and a shocking disregard for their own travel organizations, the US Government announced the removal of Antigen testing the day after IPW ended, thereby missing the opportunity for a major travel and tourism take-away to be given to over 500 domestic and international media and nearly 4,800 attendees from over 60 countries at America’s largest most important travel event of the year.

The hope is, of course, that the removal (and cost) of the pre-departure testing will draw future travel and tourism business to the US and facilitate an industrywide recovery in international inbound travel.

IPW did its part and could certainly viewed as a success. Back again after a pandemic layoff and an abbreviated version in Las Vegas in 2021, the event held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando was not lacking in energy and enthusiasm from attendees.

While masks were not mandatory, a number of people continued to wear them on the convention floor, at meetings and at some events.

Media Marketplace

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL FORECAST

US Travel released its updated ,  which projects 65 million international arrivals in 2023 (82% of pre-pandemic levels). The forecast projects that international arrivals and spending will fully recover to 2019 levels by 2025. It also forecast that the US could gain an additional 5.4 million visitors and US $9 billion in spending by the end of 2022 if the pre-departure testing requirement were removed, which it subsequently was.

US Travel’s forecast extends to 2026 and also includes an analysis on where inbound travel should be in terms of growth had the pandemic not occurred.

“This IPW is sending a message that the US is open for business and eager to welcome travellers from around the world,” said Dow. “We are taking a huge step forward here to bring back international travel, restore jobs, and re-establish the bonds that connect our countries and cultures.”

Carnival Cruise Line President and US Travel National Chair Christine Duffy and US Travel Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy Tori Emerson Barnes also spoke at the US Travel press conference.

IPW also included education opportunities for delegates. IPW Focus, a new program launched in 2021, provided delegates the opportunity to participate in sessions on a number of topics from technology and innovation to research and insights.

Orlando has served as host site for IPW eight times – more than any other US city— check here for past and future locations.

This was Roger Dow’s final IPW after seventeen years at the helm of the US Travel Association and there were many accolades for him. He’s not telling yet, but he’s got plans, so we’ll keep an eye on him and keep you posted. No announcement as to his successor, but we hear the list has been narrowed to three.

We spoke to a lot of people from a lot of places and learned about a great many destinations and lots more. So, stay tuned – over the next little while we will be keeping you updated with interesting interviews and information from IPW.

The 54th annual IPW will take place May 20-24, 2023, in San Antonio, the first time the Texas city will serve as IPW host.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

GRENADA PASSES THE SMELL TEST

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Grenada smells good. Whether it’s the nutmeg, cocoa, cinnamon, or any of the other spices native to the island – or perhaps all of them together – the Caribbean island is clearly a special place, right from the first whiff.

Indeed, the so-called “Spice Island” (and its siblings, notably Carriacou), is even looking to patent its unique, fabulous fragrance, reveals Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) CEO Petra Roach.

But until then, Canadians will just have to go and sniff in person, she laughed to Travel Industry Today.

Fortunately, that will be a lot easier to accomplish with news last week that Air Canada will resume non-stop flights to the island – located at the southern end of Grenadines chain in the West Indies – beginning this fall.

While Canadians continued to visit in substantial numbers even after the direct service was halted in January (many connecting through nearby Barbados), the interruption definitely “created a dent in our numbers,” says Roach.

To that end the CEO, accompanied by the GTA’s director of sales for Canada, Sekou Stroude, visited suppliers in Toronto earlier this month, culminating in the planned resumption of twice-weekly Air Canada flights (on Sundays and Thursdays) from Toronto Pearson starting Oct. 30.

“The news on the service to Grenada is welcome as the destination is pacing ahead of 2019 numbers and group business is up 37%,” stated Diana Rodriguez, Product Director at Air Canada Vacations.

Canada has always been a critical market for Grenada, says Roach, ranking in the top 3 and with visitors staying an average of 10 days.

Moreover, she says Canadians are inclined to leave their resorts and explore the island, eat at its restaurants, visit the spice markets, and generally ensure that their presence is felt across the island and in the community.

Grande Anse Beach

Tourism minister Clarice Modeste-Curwen, adds, “Canada is recognized as one of the most important tourism generating markets in the world with 41% of Canadians choosing beach destinations…This market has continued to grow over the years and delivers a great return on investment.”

Roach, who hopes that other Canadian airlines will join Air Canada in returning to Grenada, notes that Canadian visitors to the island tend to skew a little bit older, in the 45-64 range, as well as towards families and couples. But she says the GTA is working to gain a greater presence with millennials, who make up about 20% of visitors.

It shouldn’t be a hard sell, she adds, with a host of soft adventure activities on-island, and off, ranging from hiking and four-wheel drive excursions to water sports and diving, the latter amongst the world’s best, featuring wrecks, real and artificial reefs, and an underwater sculpture park. There are also unique activities like young chef and mixology courses.

Grenada’s beaches – especially renowned 3-km white sand Grand Anse – constantly receive accolades. And the colourful capital, St. Georges, is the island’s dynamic cultural centre.

However, the greatest draw for tiny Grenada – only 33 km long – is the “closeness” visitors feel to nature, believes Roach.

Verdant and green, covered in rainforest and waterfalls, the island “is the quintessence of pure nature,” she says. “Here you can just step back; there’s a simplicity in life that is refreshing. It’s like you breath deeply, and you imperceptibly slow down.”

As such, nature touches almost everything in the islands, from the food, which includes an abundance of uncommonly sweet fruits, like mangoes, papayas, and citrus, to farm and fishing to table.

There is also rum, chocolate, and, of course, the spices.

Naturally, wellness is central theme, from hiking in spectacular natural settings to yoga on the beach.

“Grenada is a place where people want to escape and recalibrate,” Roach enthuses.

Spice Island Beach Resort

As for accommodation, the all-inclusive Royalton Grenada, tends to top the list for Canadians, capturing about 30% of the market; while another 15% opt for Sandals, she says.

Other popular retreats among the “plethora of lodging options” include the 64-suite five-star all-inclusive Spice Island Beach Resort, and other boutique properties, such as Mount Cinnamon, Coyaba Beach Resort, 437, Silversands, and Laluna.

As for COVID, Grenada recently rescinded its entry protocols making it easier for travellers to reach the destination. Both vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers arriving into Grenada no longer need to take any COVID-19 tests prior to arrival or upon arrival, fill out health declaration forms, or quarantine on arrival.

Additionally, Roach says, the island is “very, very safe!”

In sum, she declares, “Grenada is like the last authentic island in the Caribbean.”

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News