Posts Tagged :

global travel news

Madison Restaurant on Favourite Wine Places Around the World

500 313 wttc2

Madison Restaurant on Favourite Wine Places Around the World - TOP25VINEYARDS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, April 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Madison Restaurant at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel has been selected to join the exclusive Star Wine List of more than 1,500 great wine bars and wine restaurants in over thirty countries. The selections on Star Wine List are made by a team of wine professionals around the world and venues cannot apply to be included on the list.

Discover the World’s Best Vineyards at TOP25Vineyards.com

Madison sports a wine and Champagne collection of more than 200 labels with a wide range of go-to crowd-pleasers as well as low-intervention boutique producers. The Tony Chi-designed contemporary steakhouse’s extensive wine list was curated by the luxury hotel’s first female Head Sommelier and Thailand’s Best Sommelier 2019, Ms Nutawan Jumpanak (Khun Nuch).

Khun Nuch continuously strives to increase the complexity of the list to represent all regions of wine producing countries, offering diners a selection that ranges from very approachable, reasonably priced wines to high-end varietals. “I am especially proud of our collection of biodynamic and sustainable wines from lesser-known boutique producers”, she said.

Commenting on the inclusion of Madison Restaurant on the Star Wine List, Ms Liora Levi, top sommelier professional and Star Wine List’s Ambassador Manager, said that the list offers a diverse selection of wines from all corners of the world. “You can find everything from a lovely Japanese white, through both traditional and untraditional rosés and sparkling to a classic list of both French and Italian reds with lots of exciting not so classical additions from many other places in the world. Nice prices and some truly good buys”, she concluded.

Madison is in the Parichart Court at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel and is open for lunch daily from 12h00 to 14h30 and for dinner Monday through Saturday from 18h00 to 22h30.

Discover the World’s Best Vineyards at TOP25Vineyards.com

About Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas
Anantara is a luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, connecting them to genuine places, people and stories through personal experiences, and providing heartfelt hospitality in the world’s most exciting destinations. The collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provides a window through which to journey into invigorating new territory, curating personal travel experiences.

From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travellers to the indigenous, grounds them in authentic luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. The portfolio currently boasts over 40 stunning hotels and resorts located in Thailand, Maldives, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Seychelles, Mozambique, Zambia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Tunisia, Portugal, Spain, Hungary and Italy, with a pipeline of future properties across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Corporate Travel Showing Strong Signs of Recovery

500 282 wttc2

Corporate Travel Showing Strong Signs of Recovery - TRAVELINDEXDelhi, India, April 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Corporate travel is showing strong signs of recovery, according to Madhavan Menon, Managing Director Thomas Cook (India) Group, who was the first speaker in Sabre’s new virtual insights series.

Speaking as part of the Sabre Ascent series, Mr Menon said that for the month of March 2022, Thomas Cook (India) is seeing a domestic corporate travel recovery of around 70% of pre-pandemic levels, with international corporate travel starting to follow the same trajectory.

His comments mirror latest figures released by Sabre in its filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, which providing updated recovery figures for the period of March 1 to 28 compared to the same period in 2019. The Sabre filing said: “While domestic and leisure bookings have continued to lead the recovery, international and corporate bookings have improved at an accelerating rate since January 2022. We expect the March 2022 recovery versus the same period for both international and corporate bookings to be at their highest levels since the pandemic started.”

During the first ever Sabre Ascent session, Mr Menon also told Jaya Kumar K, Vice President and Managing Director, Sabre Bengaluru GCC that he expects technology to play a “far greater role” in corporate travel as business travellers expect increased, targeted information to help them navigate travel in a COVID-19 world as well as a much more personalized approach.

Mr Menon said that Sabre is “leading this crusade of evolving technology in the travel industry, and that is not something which should be underestimated” because his company would not have made so much progress without global distribution technology.

The webinar also addressed the challenges and opportunities brought about by the pandemic as well as the evolution of domestic tourism, new trends in personalization, whether sustainability is top of mind moving through the pandemic, and the evolving demands of travellers in this new age of travel.

Looking back at the pandemic, Mr Menon said: “What was initially seen as a challenge actually turned out to be an opportunity. I don’t think any of us had faced a challenge of this kind, but there was a realization you’re not alone and everybody is facing the same problem. The last two years has given us the opportunity to re-set.”

He said that Thomas Cook (India) had re-sized out of necessity, carried out back-end integration, and upgraded its technology to create a more customer-centric focus. “This journey we are taking at Thomas Cook is moving from telling the customer what he or she should do on his holiday to the point where the customer chooses how he or she wants to go on holiday and how they want to interact with us,” he added. “The experience and access to information should be the same no matter how a customer comes to us.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

SUNx Malta 2nd Strong Earth Youth Summit

500 411 wttc2

SUNx Malta 2nd Strong Earth Youth Summit - TRAVELINDEXValletta, Malta, April 8, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / SUNx Malta will host its second Climate Friendly Travel Youth Summit on 29th April 2022. The ‘Strong Earth Youth Summit’ (SEYS) will feature top Tourism Climate Scientists, a renowned UN grass roots leader and sessions on building resilience to extreme weather events, meeting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and hitting Paris Agreement 2050 targets. The virtual event is in partnership with the Earth Council International, The European Centre for Peace & Development (ECPD), and Les Roches, International Hospitality School.

  • Celebrating 50 years of UN Climate Leadership
  • Youth Summit for tomorrow’s Climate Friendly Travel leaders
  • Celebrating Maurice Strong, Climate Activist 50 years ago

SEYS will focus on creating awareness of Climate Friendly Travel (CFT) and ways to build a resilient Travel & Tourism future.

Announcing the Youth Summit, Professor Geoffrey Lipman, President of SUNx Malta, said:

“We are going beyond the Glasgow Declaration towards Real Zero GHG 2050, halving emissions by 2030 & building resilience now. Keynotes on the Climate Crisis by renowned Tourism Climate Scientists, Professors Daniel Scott (Canada) & Susan Becken (Australia). Professor Felix Dodds will speak on Climate Realities 50 years after the Stockholm Earth Summit. And there will be interventions from some of our top Climate Friendly Travel Diploma students.”

SEYS will again honour the vision and contribution of the late Maurice Strong, after whom the summit is named. Strong was the architect of the UN Sustainable Development and Climate Framework for half a century, co-founder of the Earth Charter and inspiration for SUNx Malta and its Climate Friendly Travel System.

“SEYS is our annual testimony to the legacy of Maurice Strong, Champion for the planet, bringing a sharp focus on the fact that we are running out of time. We must act now,” says Lipman.

To Register for SEYS please click here

All participants will receive electronic copies of the book “Remembering Maurice F. Strong” courtesy of ECPD and the Earth Charter launched by Strong and Mikhail Gorbachev.

About SUNx Malta
SUNx Malta is a not for profit, EU based, organisation, partnered with the government of Malta that has created a unique, low cost, system to help Travel & Tourism companies and communities transform to the New Climate Economy. The SUNx Malta “Green & Clean, Climate Friendly Travel System” is Action and Education focused – supporting today’s companies and communities to deliver on their proclaimed ambitions and encouraging tomorrow’s young leaders to prepare for rewarding careers across the sector.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Thai VietJet Successfully Launch First Flight Bangkok to Phnom Penh

500 314 wttc2

Thai VietJet Successfully Launch First Flight Bangkok to Phnom Penh - AIRLINEHUB.com - TRAVELINDEXPhnom Penh, Cambodia, April 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Thai VietJet successfully commenced the inaugural flight of its new international service between Bangkok and Phnom Penh, with the welcome event at Phnom Penh International Airport. The flight VZ720 from Bangkok was warmly welcomed with the presence of H.E Gen Mao Havanall, Minister in Charge of State Secretariat of Civil Aviation; H.E. Mr. Panyarak Poolthup, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Kingdom of Cambodia; Mr. Alain Brun, Chief Executive Officer of Cambodia Airports; and Mr. Sao Wathana, Director of Phnom Penh International Airport.

Mr. Woranate Laprabang, Chief Executive Officer of Thai VietJet, said: “After a long market’s service disruption from COVID-19, Thai VietJet is delighted to spread our wings with the international flight network expansion once again. By connecting the two Southeast Asian economic, cultural hubs, the successful launch of Thai VietJet’s new Phnom Penh – Bangkok service is yet another milestone in the airline’s regional connectivity efforts. We are confident that the new service will play an important role in bridging people between the two countries, as well as contributing to the revival of tourism and the overall development of the economy.”

Welcoming the maiden flight at the airport, Mr. Alain BRUN, Chief Executive Officer of Cambodia Airports, said: “In the last 3 months, after a pause due to the covid-19 pandemic and its impact on air travel, all international carriers operating flights linking Phnom Penh and Bangkok have been back in the network. Another sign of the recent traffic momentum is today’s introduction of service by Thai VietJet, a newcomer for this major route. Our airport teams explore any opportunities of regaining the pre-pandemic levels of traffic and, therefore, look forward to this nascent cooperation with Thai VietJet.”

In the beginning, the new international service Phnom Penh – Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) will operate 3 flights a week every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with the flight duration of 1 hour 10 minutes and following flight schedule, and more frequency could be added subject to market demand.

In addition to the new international service Phnom Penh – Bangkok, together with the Group’s network, Thai Vietjet has normalized schedule service between Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh city (Vietnam) of up to 5 flights/week in total, delivering great choice for travelers between the two countries. In the coming time, the airline expects to expand its international flight network to many more destinations in the Asia-pacific region, including Vietnam, Singapore, Taiwan, and more.

As the Fastest Growing Low-cost Carrier of the Year (by Global Business Outlook Magazine, London), Thai Vietjet has continuously expanded its flight network, both domestic and international. The carrier has thoroughly prepared for the resumption of regular international flights with new aviation products and affordable fares to offer its passengers safe and enjoyable flying experiences on new and modern aircraft. To ensure good flight experiences, passengers are advised to follow localities’ regulations on disease prevention and control, and immigration regulations of destination countries including vaccine passports, negative PCR tests, quarantine, accommodation, etc.

About Thai VietJet
Established in 2014, Thai VietJet has been cooperating with VietJet to extend its flight network and provide more opportunities for travelers to discover Thailand and many other countries with its hospitable and enjoyable service. With a focus on cost management ability, effective operations and performance, the airline offers flying opportunities with cost-saving and flexible fares as well as diversified services to meet customers’ demands.

Awarded ‘The Fastest Growing Low-cost Carrier of the 2020’ by Global Business Outlook Magazine, Thai VietJet has been continuously expanding its young and modern fleet, featuring Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. The airline has also recently been awarded the ‘Most Passenger-Friendly Cabin Crew – 2021’ airline from International Finance Magazine, emphasizing its position as the ‘airline of hospitality’, reinforcing its core value of ‘Friendly & Fun’, together with ‘Safety’, ‘Punctuality, and ‘Affordable Price’.

Currently, Thai VietJet operates 14 Thailand domestic routes, including flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Udon Thani, Hat Yai, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ubon Ratchathani, and Surat Thani, cross-regional flights including from Phuket to Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, and Udon Thani, and direct flights from Hat Yai to Chiang Rai. The airline is also actively expanding its international flight network to many destinations across Asia-pacific, connecting Thailand with Vietnam, Taiwan, Singapore, and other top destinations in the region.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

European Brand Tivoli Hotels Debuts in China with Opening in Chengdu

500 269 wttc2

European Brand Tivoli Hotels Debuts in China with Opening in Chengdu - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXChengdu, China, April 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Tivoli Hotels and Resorts, a luxury Portuguese-rooted hospitality brand, has announced an important milestone in its expansion strategy throughout Asia with the opening of Tivoli Chengdu at Cultural Heritage Park.

Developed in partnership with Chengdu Qingyang Urban and Rural Construction Development Company Limited, the 201-room luxury property is located in the International Intangible Cultural Heritage Park, in Chengdu. While holidaymakers will enjoy direct access to the park’s purpose-built exhibition halls showcasing world cultures, business travellers will appreciate the proximity of Chengdu Shuangliu Airport located just 19 kilometres away and the hotel’s state-of-the-art meeting facilities.

Chengdu, a thriving cultural and commercial capital of Sichuan Province, has an established travel industry thanks to its pleasant climate, a bevy of historical attractions, excellent food, and a world-renowned breeding and research base for giant pandas. Opening the doors to these thrilling urban experiences, Tivoli Chengdu will feature a collection of signature Tivoli moments twinned with authentic cultural discoveries.

Designed to resemble a spread-out gilded scroll, the property is nestled into lush, green surroundings. In the soaring lobby, hibiscus pillars and earthenware artworks aim to bring Chengdu’s natural landscapes indoors, while inside the spacious Deluxe Rooms muted tones and luxury furnishings create a deeply relaxing environment. At 75 square metres, the signature Tivoli Rooms provide ample space and a luxurious residential feel enhanced by nature-inspired art, such as the handmade butterfly print over the bed chosen for its symbolism and lucky connotations.

With six dining and lifestyle venues, gastronomy is a major highlight of the Tivoli Chendgu experience. Casa de Fados, the first Portuguese restaurant in Chengdu, will host a European-style Sunday brunch, as well as serving daily seafood-rich Mediterranean meals paired with fine wines on a sunny terrace surrounded by a garden. Another signature venue, Tihong Chinese Restaurant, is designed as a lively family hub where diners can sample dim sum and contemporary Szechuan and Cantonese dishes prepared with ingredients sourced from Chengdu and its environs. The restaurant’s 11 private dining rooms are each named after the prose poems penned by the great Chengdu-born poet, Sima Xiangru.

At the all-day dining CAFÉ 1933, chefs concoct exquisite dishes from around the globe, with a focus on South-east Asian specialties. Lobby Lounge will offer light Western meals and casual dining in vibrant surrounds, with premium teas served at the adjacent antique tea room. Fun DIY bakery sessions and chocolate workshops will be offered as part of the family-friendly Mr Fun Bakery House experience, an extension of the Lobby Lounge. Family picnic sets are also available to enjoy out in the gardens or in Chengdu Cultural Heritage Park. A must at Tivoli Chengdu are sundowners and celebrations at the Sky Bar offering panoramic views over the park and classic Tivoli cocktails.

The property’s 800-square-metre outdoor Kids’ Garden will provide baby-sitting services as well as offering dedicated pet’s bed, pet’s menu, and a spacious play area. Other amenities include a fully-equipped health centre, the renowned Anantara Spa and a soon-to-open swimming pool. With its 2,275-square-metre pillarless banquet hall and heritage-themed coffee breaks, Tivoli Chengdu is perfectly positioned for events of any size and style. The 3,650-square-metre outdoor lawn, in the meantime, is ideal for weddings and social celebrations.

A short walking distance from Tivoli Chengdu is Chengdu Metro Line 4, providing convenient access to local popular attractions such as the Broad and Narrow Alley, Du Fu Thatched Cottage, Qingyang Palace, Huanhuaxi Park and Tianfu Square. Nancaoping Ecology Park and the 18-hole Tianfu Golf Club are also within easy reach.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Visit Seattle Names Tammy Blount-Canavan as Next President & CEO

500 292 wttc2

Visit Seattle Names Tammy Blount-Canavan as Next President & CEO - WEBOFWOMEN.com - TRAVELINDEXSeattle, United States, April 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Following a nationwide search, Visit Seattle and its Board of Directors announce that Tammy Blount-Canavan, FCDME (Fellow Certified Destination Marketing Executive) will serve as its President and CEO, effective May 9. She will be Visit Seattle’s first female CEO, replacing longtime leader Tom Norwalk, who retired earlier this spring.

Blount-Canavan’s rich leadership history spans two countries and three decades first in the hotel industry in her hometown of Vancouver, BC, to a previous role as President and CEO of the Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau. She has strong ties to the Puget Sound area, having served as President and CEO of the Tacoma Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau from 2008-2012.

“I am thrilled to welcome Tammy Blount-Canavan to Seattle,” said Carla Murray, President, U.S. Western Region Marriott International. “She has made her mark in Vancouver, Tacoma, Monterey and I look forward to working with her again in her new role as leader of Visit Seattle. Her skills and expertise will assist us in growing our business well into the future.”

Most recently, she was EVP, Principal at Fired-Up! Culture, a business management consulting firm focused on leadership and culture development. She is a past-chair of Destinations International, the international trade association for destination marketing organizations. She was recognized as CEO of the Year while in Monterey, one of the 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry, and twice as one of the top 25 Most Influential Women in the industry. She was recognized as Community Leader of the Year, Sustainability Advocate for the California Travel Association, Leading for Positive Impact by the Canadian Impact Conference, and was the 2019 recipient of Destination International’s Global Leadership Award. During her time at Tacoma Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau, she also worked to establish and was the first chair for the Washington Tourism Alliance, now State of Washington Tourism. Blount-Canavan worked at Tourism Vancouver in senior management for over a decade.

Blount-Canavan says her vision for Visit Seattle is to build on its strong foundation as a dynamic, bold, innovative organization, strengthening relationships and partnerships to elevate Seattle as the nation’s best city to visit, live and do business in.

“I am honored to serve as Visit Seattle’s first female President and CEO,” said Blount-Canavan. “This city has been close to my heart for as long as I can remember. I love Seattle’s beauty, authenticity and culture – the city’s potential is limitless. I am beyond thrilled to be a part of this great city’s leadership.”

Blount-Canavan’s experience in the meetings and conventions space is in high demand as Visit Seattle is poised to make waves in the industry. Following a rebrand, the Washington State Convention Center will become the Seattle Convention Center starting the week of April 18. The $1.9 billion addition, Summit, is under construction and slated to open in January 2023, doubling its capacity.

“I was excited to learn that Tammy Blount-Canavan has been chosen to succeed Tom Norwalk as the new President and CEO,” said Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International. “Tammy is an experienced and passionate leader who is very familiar with the Seattle region and its many offerings for leisure visitors, meetings and conventions and business travelers.”

She replaces Tom Norwalk, who served as Visit Seattle’s President and CEO for 15 years. Under Norwalk’s leadership, Seattle set all-time records for tourism visitation and spending. He recently oversaw an effort to increase the Seattle Tourism Improvement Area (STIA) assessment, which was passed unanimously by Seattle City Council and signed by Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell in March 2022. The increased assessment will allow Visit Seattle to competitively promote leisure travel during a critical recovery phase.

“I am so happy for Tammy, our Visit Seattle team and our incredible city,” said Tom Norwalk, former President & CEO, Visit Seattle. “I have so enjoyed working with Tammy over the years – in forming the Washington Tourism Alliance – or, on the streets of Shanghai representing and promoting our region to key clients and media in China. I have witnessed firsthand, that she knows and loves this city and region.”

“With the announcement of Tammy Blount-Canavan, Visit Seattle is about to continue its well-earned, long-standing reputation as having the cleverest and widely respected CEOs in the DMO world when it comes to working with clients—be they convention decision makers, tour operators, cruise companies, individual visitors or the community itself,” said Rick Antonson, former President and CEO of Tourism Vancouver. “Bravo Seattle.”

Blount-Canavan enjoys walking, hiking, travel and family—along with a good spy novel—during her free time. While she enjoys Seattle’s iconic locations like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, her favorite spot to take people on a clear day is Kerry Park, for its spectacular views of the skyline. Tammy and husband Patrick Canavan are eager to establish their home in Seattle and excited to join the community.

About Visit Seattle
Visit Seattle has served as the official destination marketing organization (DMO) for Seattle and King County for more than 50 years. A 501(c)(6) organization, Visit Seattle enhances the economic prosperity of the region through global destination branding along with competitive programs and campaigns in leisure travel marketing, convention sales and overseas tourism development.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

JW Marriott Debuts in Guadalajara, Mexico´s Second Largest City

840 473 wttc2

JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara - Interior Lobby - 1.jpg
Hotel Renderings, Courtesy: JW Marriott

JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, arrives in Guadalajara with the opening of JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara, ushering in a new level of luxury and sophistication to the second largest city in Mexico. With meaningful design, exceptional service, and a holistic approach to well-being, the hotel brings the JW Marriott brand’s mindfulness principles to life, allowing guests to be present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit with each stay.

The hotel, managed by Aimbridge Prisma and developed by Grupo Favier, is located in the Guadalajara Country Club area, one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in the city, surrounded by service and financial corporations, as well as shopping and entertainment venues. It is near the city’s major tourist attractions including the Historic Center, Hospicio Cabañas – a World Heritage Site – and Pueblos Mágicos (“Magical Towns”) of Tequila and Chapala.

“We are proud to welcome JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara into our growing portfolio of remarkable hotels in Mexico,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Guadalajara is a bustling, dynamic, cultural center of Mexico, one which sees business and leisure travelers from around the world. It is our hope to offer these guests a respite from the outside world, in a modern, luxurious setting for travelers who wish to nourish their mind, body, and spirit at every turn.”

An urban retreat to escape the hustle and bustle, relax and be present, the property offers 191 rooms and suites, including a spectacular Presidential Suite with its own lap pool and panoramic views of the city, offering business or leisure guests a one-of-a-kind experience. The architecture of the hotel was created by the renowned firm of Javier Sordo Madaleno, while the interiors were enlivened by Arquitectura de Interiores – one of the most prestigious interior design firms in the world. Each guest room was designed to evoke a sense of residential comfort, creating the perfect environment to feel inspired.

Guests will enjoy unobstructed views of the city of Guadalajara as well as elevated dining experiences at the property’s various dining outlets including Zibu, created by renowned Chef Eduardo Palazuelos, and offering a unique gastronomic experience that fuses the flavors of Asia and Mexico in a conceptual, architectural, and decorative concept setting. JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara is also home to the JW Executive Lounge serving breakfast and cocktails as well as a wide variety of the region’s star spirit: Tequila at the Agave Bar, while it also features a harmonious space to conduct business meetings.

Featuring a 24/7 fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment and amenities, JW Marriott Hotel Guadalajara allows guests to keep up with their workout routine while on the road. A beautiful swimming pool with sweeping views of the city is available for a refreshing dip. The hotel´s convenient location and four meeting rooms make it a perfect setting for meetings and events, with spaces that can accommodate up to 110 guests.

ABOUT JW BRAND
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott 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. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. 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 CONTACT
Alexandru Otero Tamayo, PR Coordinator, Caribbean & Latin America
Marriott International
Alexandru.Otero@marriott.com

Read original article at Marriott Hotels

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

FLOWER POWER AT THE TOWER: ‘Superbloom’ to mark Queen’s Jubilee

1080 494 wttc2

Best known for its crown jewels and famous historic prisoners, not least some of the unlucky wives of Henry VIII, the Tower of London is set to present a new face this summer when it will be encircled by millions of flowers to help celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.

This spring, 20 million carefully selected seeds will be sown in the Tower’s famous moat, creating a vibrant sea of flowers – dubbed “Superbloom” – which will continuously evolve from June to September, changing colours and patterns throughout the summer.

With a planting scheme designed to attract bees, pollinators and seed-eating birds, the display will provide a biodiverse space to support wildlife. Moreover, Superbloom will be the first stage of a permanent transformation of the famous moat into a new natural landscape in the heart of the City of London and which, for years to come, will be new habitat and green haven for pollinators, insects, and seed-eating birds.

In recent years, the vast 14,000-sq.-m. moat has been for been the setting for two major floral commemorations of the Centenary of the First World War: the 2014 ‘Poppies’ and 2018 ‘Flames’ installations.

However, the space has had many uses in its long history: it has housed a medieval orchard, a grazing ground for Victorian livestock, and even allotments during the Second World War. In 1977, to mark HM The Queen’s Silver Jubilee, the moat provided a fitting location for a garden display.

Now, almost half a century later, the moat will once again be the setting for the Tower’s jubilee tribute. For the first time, a space built in the 13th century to keep people out of the Tower, will welcome visitors in – from June, it will be open every day for visitors to explore and see the spectacle of the Superbloom close up.

The project was conceived by Historic Royal Palaces (HRP), the charity that cares for the Tower of London, and planned over several years, resulting in a design that will bring a burst of spectacular natural beauty to the Tower, while creating a significant new and much needed resource for pollinators and birds.

Early tests in Summer 2021 demonstrated the power of even a small number of flowers to increase the biodiversity in the moat. When the ‘Superbloom’ display ends in September, the new natural landscape created to support it will remain in the moat as a permanent Jubilee legacy.

Poppies have previously filled the Tower’s famous moat

An explosion of colour within London’s urban landscape, the Tower’s Superbloom will also celebrate the value of nature to our wellbeing. The positive impact of green space on health is widely recognized and the pandemic has highlighted its importance. Historic Royal Palaces hopes that the transformation of the moat – a previously underused space – will inspire similar positive change across the country. For example, schoolchildren are being invited to take part in a major initiative to support the project; growing their own displays, created from a special palette of seeds, to bloom alongside the one at the Tower – and learning about what gardens can do to improve sustainability and support ecology as part of that process.

Historic Royal Palaces also plans to host smaller floral displays across its other sites – including at Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, and Hillsborough Castle, to mark the Jubilee.

Nigel Dunnett, Professor of Planting Design and Urban Horticulture at University of Sheffield, said, “We hope that the effect of being surrounded by a sea of colourful, sparkling, and vibrant flowers will release feelings of pure liberated joy in visitors to the Superbloom – it will be such a powerful, emotional, and celebratory experience. We’ve undertaken a lot of testing and trials to ensure that we deliver dramatic and beautiful impressionistic blends of colours, a long and continuous sequence of flowering, and a wonderful place for pollinating insects.’

The Superbloom began seeding in March and will run from June 1 to Sept. 18. Tickets on are sale now and pre-booking is essential. Packages include Tower and Superbloom, or just the latter. Click .

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

American Airlines to Begin Service Between Anguilla and Miami

500 285 wttc2

American Airlines to Begin Service Between Anguilla and Miami - TOP25ISLANDS.com - TRAVELINDEXThe Valley, Anguilla, April 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Anguilla Tourist Board and American Airlines have announced that the airline will operate daily flights from Miami International Airport (MIA) into Anguilla’s Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) as of April 2, 2022.

Anguilla’s Minister of Tourism and Infrastructure Haydn Hughes said in a press statement, “The agenda to bring change to Anguilla continues to be manifested as we navigate the challenges of today’s world. We have been able to safely reopen our island for business and both investors and visitors have made Anguilla the destination of choice.

The reality of American Airlines’ inaugural flight into Anguilla was an idea that is now bearing fruit. To that end, we announced an increase of three flights into our destination beginning in January 2022. I am pleased that this partnership continues to flourish even in the early stage, and today we announce the commencement of daily flights to and from Anguilla/Miami in April 2022.”

Speaking about the importance of the move, the minister added, “This is a tremendous vote of confidence in our destination, as American Airlines has the equipment and the route network that will enable us to significantly increase our arrivals and further develop our tourism product.”

Applauding the move was Anguilla Tourist Board Chairman Kenroy Herbert, who said, “The introduction of these scheduled flights will be a game-changer for our tourism industry. Access is the most critical factor for any destination, and the Miami gateway provides excellent connectivity from the West Coast, so it opens up lucrative new markets for Anguilla. This new service will create a host of business and leisure tourism opportunities for our island.”

The new schedule is loaded into American Airlines’ system and flights are available for booking. Flights from Miami will depart daily from Miami International Airport at 10:50 a.m. and arrive in Anguilla at 2:49 p.m. Flights from Anguilla to Miami will depart from Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport at 3:40 p.m. and arrive in Miami at 5:53 p.m.

The Miami service to Anguilla began on December 11, 2021 with twice-weekly flights, and increased to three flights a week from January 5-March 31, 2022. The decision to operate a daily service was made based on the strong load factors to the island throughout the winter months.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Announces Speakers for Global Summit in Philippines

500 262 wttc2

WTTC Announces Speakers for Global Summit in Philippines - VISITPHILIPPINES.org -TRAVELINDEXManila, Philippines, April 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) unveils its speakers for its upcoming Global Summit in Manila, which includes Indonesian/Dutch activist Melati Wijsen.

Discover and Experience the Philippines with VisitPhilippines Travel Guide – It’s More Fun in the Philippines

At just 12 years old, activist Melati Wijsen founded Bye Bye Plastics – a global movement powered by youths around the world to end the use of plastic bags, and in 2018 alongside her sister, was named one of the “World’s most influential teens” by Time magazine.

Taking place in Manila, Philippines from 20-22 April, the global tourism body’s highly anticipated 21st Global Summit is the most influential Travel & Tourism event in the calendar.

Industry leaders will gather with more than 20 government representatives in Manila, to continue aligning efforts to support the sector’s recovery and move beyond to a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.

South Korean politician Ban Ki-Moon who served as the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations between 2007 and 2016, will also address delegates virtually at this prestigious event.

Also taking to the stage at the Global Summit will be the Tourism Ministers from around the world including Spain, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand, Japan, Maldives, and Barbados amongst others.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We are delighted to have such influential speakers already confirmed for our Global Summit in Manila.

“Melati is an inspiration to us all. A real changemaker, who from such a young age, has been instrumental in raising awareness of the damage caused by plastic and has inspired young people around the world to lead change.

“After more than two years, the region is perfectly positioned to post the losses caused by the pandemic. WTTC’s Global Summit will act as a catalyst to drive forward the recovery of a sector that is critical for both the economy and jobs.”

Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Philippine Tourism Secretary, said: “Preparations are underway to ensure the success of WTTC’s Global Summit in Manila, which serves as the light at the end of tunnel following a long period of darkness for global tourism.

“It is heartening that these inspiring individuals have joined our efforts to bring the industry onward to full recovery” Puyat added.

Other notable speakers taking to the stage during the Global Summit will be international business leaders such as Arnold Donald, President & CEO Carnival Corporation and Chairman at WTTC; Greg O’Hara, Founder and Senior Managing Director Certares and Vice Charman at WTTC; Craig Smith, Group President International Division Marriott International; Maria Anthonette Velasco-Allones, COO Tourism Promotion Board Philippines; Federico Gonzalez, CEO Radisson; and Nelson Boyce, Head of Travel for the Americas at Google Inc.

A hybrid event, WTTC’s Global Summit will also feature Kelly Craighead, President & CEO CLIA; Jane Sun, CEO Trip.com, Ariane Gorin, President Expedia for Business; and Darrell Wade, Chairman Intrepid Group; amongst others.

More speakers will be announced over the coming weeks.

The WTTC Global Summit is taking place in the Philippines at a time when the country and the region begins to recover from the pandemic and will showcase the importance of Travel & Tourism in the region.

WTTC’s recent research shows the forecast for the Asia Pacific region could see its Travel & Tourism sector approaching pre-pandemic levels this year.

According to the research, the sector’s contribution to the region’s GDP could reach USD 2.9 trillion, near pre-pandemic levels, while employment could reach over 190 million jobs, surpassing 2019 figures and providing an additional five million jobs to the sector.

To reach close to pre-pandemic levels this year, WTTC says governments across the region and around the world must continue focusing on the vaccine and booster rollout – allowing fully vaccinated travellers to move freely without the need for testing.

Discover and Experience the Philippines with VisitPhilippines Travel Guide – It’s More Fun in the Philippines

The WTTC Global Summit in Manila is sponsored by Resorts World Manila, Global Rescue, Okada Manila, Turkish Airlines, Cebu Pacific Air, Etihad Airways, Philippine Airlines, Tourism Promotion Board Philippines, Hilton Manila, UBE Express, Inc., Tieza, Nissan Philippines, Inc., Press Reader, SSI Group, Xpansiv.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News