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Data, Sustainability and Collaboration Focus as UN Tourism Returns to ITB Berlin

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Berlin, Germany, March 10, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism returned to ITB Berlin, bringing its new name and look to the leading travel trade fair and uniting the sector around its focus on sustainability, investments and collaboration.

Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili joined the Governing Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wenger, and other public and private sector leaders in officially opening the 2024 event. He said: “Tourism’s return means so much to so many people. Tourism is a great uniting force. Together, we are growing new areas of our sector, to build greater resilience and spread the benefits of tourism even wider.” At the opening, the event’s host, Messe Berlin was recognized for its 40 years as a UN Tourism Affiliate Member and for its key role in advancing international meetings and events tourism and fostering partnerships in the German capital.

Together, we are growing new areas of our sector, to build greater resilience and spread the benefits of tourism even wider

Under its new look and name, UN Tourism once again made ITB Berlin a top platform for high-level collaboration and for advancing several of its key priorities for the sector:

Better data for deeper transformation

UN Tourism and the World Tourism Cities Federation (WCTF) launched a joint report highlighting the need to measure the social and environmental impacts of tourism in urban destinations in a more effective and harmonized way. The report stresses the importance of embracing big data and other forms of technology and looks ahead to the creation of a first global urban tourism database.

The launch of the publication comes in the same week that all 193 UN members adopted the Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST).

Accelerating Climate Action

Continuing its leading role in the One Planet Tourism Network and the Glasgow Declaration, UN Tourism launched Policy Guidance to Support Climate Action by National Tourism Administrations (NTAs). The guide will assist NTAs everywhere to develop policies and create initiatives designed to accelerate the shift towards a low-carbon sector The guide, which also contains examples of best practice, was developed after consultations with Ministries of Tourism of Member States. The guidance is complemented by a Glasgow Declaration Engagement Pack, with practical recommendations on how to get started on climate action in tourism. Also at ITB Berlin, UN Tourism officials participated in a roundtable event on Reconciling Safety and Sustainability.

Additionally, bringing together its focus on rural development, gender equality and sustainability, UN Tourism also participated in a special side event, Sustainable Rural Tourism: A Foundation for Biodiversity Preservation and Gender Equality – Potentials and Interactions, providing insights and best practice recommendations.

Working closely with Member States

Within the framework of ITB 2024, UN Tourism Secretary-General Pololikashvili held a series of high-level bilateral meetings with Ministers of Tourism and other high-level representatives from Member States from across the world. The meetings served to advance plans for joint projects and for key upcoming UN tourism events.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Host Country Oman to Open ITB Berlin 2024

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Host Country Oman to Open ITB Berlin 2024 - TRAVELINDEX.comBerlin, Germany, February 29, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Prominent political and tourism industry figures are to attend the official opening ceremony of the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show on 4 March. A spectacular show programme featuring classical works and folk music by the Official Host Country Oman awaits the audience at the opening of ITB Berlin 2024.

The stage is set for Oman: the slogan of this year’s ITB Berlin opening ceremony is ’Beauty Has An Address’. Represented by H.E. Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman, the host country will present a colourful and impressive show onstage at the CityCube Berlin on the eve of the first day of the trade show, 4 March 2024, starting at 6 p.m.. A tour of the beauty and many facets of the country in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula awaits some 3,000 guests invited to the event, among them numerous prominent political and tourism industry figures.

Political representatives Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin, and Dieter Janecek, the Federal Government’s Coordinator for Maritime Economy and Tourism, will welcome the host country and those present. The travel industry will be represented by Julia Simpson, president and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), and Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin, will represent ITB Berlin.

An impressive tour of the many facets of this country awaits the audience and is divided into three parts. The first will highlight the beauty of Oman, including its many natural attractions, traditions, and elements of the Sultanate of Oman’s cultural heritage. The second part will focus on the progress of Oman, including the modernisation of the country and preservation of its cultural identity, as well as religion, education, human rights and art. In the third part entitled ’Vision 2040’, the Sultanate of Oman will present new horizons, sustainable tourism development and its role on the world stage.

In addition, Omani singers and folk groups will present a colourful programme, accompanied by the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra, which will combine all elements of the show by presenting traditional Omani customs and melodies as well as music works from around the world. This is the first time in 17 years that the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra is visiting Germany again. As one of the few western-oriented symphony orchestras in the Arab World it occupies a special role. What is also extraordinary is that since the orchestra was founded its musicians have been exclusively from Oman.

After the opening ceremony, the host country will hold a reception at the CityCube Berlin, where culinary delights from the Sultanate of Oman will be served.

About ITB Berlin and the ITB Berlin Convention
ITB Berlin 2024 will take place from Tuesday, 5 to Thursday, 7 March. Since 1966, ITB Berlin has been the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show. As in previous years, the internationally acclaimed ITB Berlin Convention will take place parallel with the show as a live event on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds. Under the heading „Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism. Together.“, leading speakers from business, science and politics will discuss the industry’s current and future challenges on 4 stages with a total of 17 themed tracks and more than 24,000 attendees.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ITB China 2023 Joins Forces with Trip.com Group

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ITB China 2023 Joins Forces with Trip.com Group - TRAVELINDEXShanghai, China, August 2, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / ITB China, the marketplace for China’s travel industry, is thrilled to announce its collaboration with Trip .com Group, the leading global travel service provider for this year’s highly anticipated event, taking place from 12 – 14 September 2023 in Shanghai.

Trip Group shows strong commitment to ITB China 2023 as a confirmed Official Travel Service Partner and will take center stage in elevating the ITB China experience for all attendees. The ITB China Conference sessions will be enriched with their latest market insights and forecasts, while the ITB China Cruise Night, co-hosted by Trip Group for the fourth consecutive time on the evening of 12 September, will provide unmatched networking opportunities.

Ms. Jane Sun, CEO of Trip Group, said: “The global travel and tourism industry’s recovery is gaining pace, and many new travel-related jobs have been created in recent months. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is redefining the industry and Trip Group has been investing in cutting-edge technologies as part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the overall travel experience for our customers.”

“Apart from technologies, new demands and trends have emerged in the past few years, and it is important for businesses to build resilience and agility, and adapt to the ever-changing needs of customers. We look forward to engaging and collaborating with our partners to bring this industry to new heights,” Sun added.

Trip Group plans to deepen cooperation with global partners to better serve Chinese tourists, offer high-quality services to outbound travellers, and promote inbound tourism as an engine for economic growth. Cultural exchanges between China and the world will be fostered through travel in both directions.

About Trip Group
Trip Group is a leading global travel service provider comprising of Trip .com, Ctrip, Skyscanner and Qunar. Across its platforms, Trip.com Group helps travellers around the world make informed and cost-effective bookings for travel products and services and enables partners to connect their offerings with users through the aggregation of comprehensive travel-related content and resources, and an advanced transaction platform consisting of apps, websites and 24/7 customer service centres. Founded in 1999 and listed on NASDAQ in 2003 and HKEX in 2021, Trip.com Group has become one of the best-known travel groups in the world, with the mission “to pursue the perfect trip for a better world”.

About ITB China
ITB China 2023 will take place from 12 to 14 September in Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center. ITB China is the leading B2B exclusive travel trade show focusing on the Chinese travel market, bringing together hand selected top-buyers with industry professionals from all over the world. The show provides various networking events and a unique state-of-the-art matchmaking system to maximize business opportunities. The ITB China Conference takes place in parallel with the show and is co-organized by the leading conference organizer TravelDaily.

About ITB Global Brand Family
For more than 50 years the name ITB has stood worldwide for the travel industry knowledge 365 days a year, networking and trendsetting events – in a virtual, in-person or hybrid format alike. As the travel industry resurges, the ITB brand family is among the first to come back to offering on-site in-person events. ITB China, the marketplace for China’s travel industry, is making a live-comeback from 12- 14 September 2023 in Shanghai. ITB Asia in Singapore, which takes the broader regional market into scope, will be held live again in Singapore from 25- 27 October 2023. ITB Berlin, the world’s leading B2B trade show for the travel industry, will take place in Berlin from 5 – 7 March 2024, followed by ITB India in Mumbai from 11 to 13 September 2024.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Oman Named Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2024

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Oman Named Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2024 - TRAVELINDEXMuscat, Oman, April 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Oman Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and ITB Berlin have announced that the Sultanate of Oman will be the official host country of the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show in 2024. ”ITB Berlin is a potent platform for showcasing the variety of the many offerings that Oman can provide in the growing tourism industry,“ says His Excellency Salim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman. “We are pleased that in 2024, the Sultanate of Oman will be the hosting country and we are committed to provide the event with an impressive and lasting experience covering all possible senses and expectations,“ H.E. added.

The minister had previously signed a declaration of intent during an informal ceremony at ITB Berlin 2023 in order to seal the partnership at an early date. Afterwards, the official signing of the agreement took place with David Ruetz, senior vice president, Messe Berlin.

“Oman has been strongly represented at ITB Berlin for many years and we are very impressed by the tourism attractions and diversity this travel destination has to offer“, said David Ruetz. “With the Sultanate, we are delighted to have secured such an attractive partner for next year’s show.”

The Gulf of Oman is shown in the foreground. In the background is the waterfront Corniche of Muttrah with white houses and the Muttrah Mosque in Muscat, Oman. Behind it mountains are visible.

The country in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula boasts an impressive history spanning 5,000 years and is known for its many different attractions. Travellers can look forward to a welcoming destination and a nature paradise of many contrasts that attracts visitors in search of relaxation and activities alike. Besides golden sand dunes and green oases, the Sultanate boasts high mountains and impressive caves as well as sandy beaches and cliffs that stretch for miles. Outdoor activities such as snorkelling, hiking and climbing round off the tourism attractions on offer.

As the official host country of ITB Berlin 2024, Oman will organise the opening ceremony on 4 March 2024 at the CityCube Berlin, among other events. From 5 to 7 March the Sultanate will present trade visitors with a wide-ranging programme featuring numerous events.

About ITB Berlin and the ITB Berlin Convention
ITB Berlin 2024 will take place from Tuesday, 5 to Thursday, 7 March. Since 1966, ITB Berlin has been the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show. As in previous years, the internationally acclaimed ITB Berlin Convention will take place parallel with the show as a live event on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds. At ITB Berlin 2023 around 5,500 exhibitors from 161 countries displayed their products and services to over 90,000 visitors. In 2023, under the heading ’Mastering Transformation’, the ITB Berlin Convention took place as a live event with a total of 24,000 attendees who took part in 200 sessions with 400 leading speakers.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO at ITB Berlin Setting Priorities for Tourism

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UNWTO at ITB Berlin Setting Priorities for Tourism - TRAVELINDEXBerlin, Germany, March 20, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO returned to ITB Berlin with a clear message: Tourism is back and committed to delivering positive change that goes beyond the sector itself.

Tourism returns – why ITB matters

ITB Berlin is the world’s biggest tourism and travel trade fair. This week’s event was the first in-person ITB for four years and comes as the sector’s recovery is well underway. According to UNWTO, international tourism could reach 80 to 95% of pre-pandemic numbers by the end of the year, with 70 million international arrivals recorded in January alone (more than double the number of January 2022).

The return of ITB was heralded by UNWTO as proof of strong confidence in travel as “the ultimate barometer of trust”. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili was invited to officially open the event, alongside Germany’s Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, Berlin Mayor Franziska Giffey, and public and private sector leaders.

Education and Investment: Key Priorities for Tourism

At the official ITB opening, UNWTO reinforced the importance of education, training and investments for tourism’s ability to deliver on its potential.

In Berlin, UNWTO announced a new partnership that will see the Organization work with Saudi Arabia to promote education and professional development in tourism.

Alongside this, UNWTO also signed a new agreement with the Business School of Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts to partner towards the creation of a new Bachelor of Science degree in International Sustainable Tourism.

The key message of investing in people was also stressed as UNWTO took part in a special Industry Roundtable. The event built on UNWTO’s status as the bridge between the public and private sectors. Recognizing the vital need for more and better-targeted investments to put transformative plans into action, UNWTO also confirmed that World Tourism Day 2023 will be celebrated around the theme of “Tourism and Green Investments”.

Accelerating tourism climate action

Against the backdrop of ITB Berlin, UNWTO released a new report highlighting the progress that global tourism has made in measuring greenhouse gas emissions. “Climate Action in the Tourism Sector” was developed by UNWTO with support from the German Government and in collaboration with UN Climate Change (UNFCCC). The recommendations will help ensure more reliable measurements of GHG emissions towards fulfilling the commitments of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.

Tourism for all

ITB 2023 coincided with International Women’s Day. To mark the occasion, UNWTO was joined by UN Women to present a summary of the achievements of the “Centre Stage: Women’s empowerment during the COVID-19 recovery” project. The initiative made clear the extent to which women working in tourism were particularly impacted by the pandemic. And while tourism remains a leading employer of women, UNWTO and UN Women jointly stress that the sector is still to deliver on its women’s empowerment potential.

Finally, to further advance the diversification of the sector and the growth of areas that can deliver new benefits, a special UNWTO Roundtable Discussion on “Connecting Sports Tourism to Health” was held at ITB ahead of the 2nd World Sports Tourism Congress in Zadar, Croatia (26-27 April).

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Launches Hotel Sustainability Basics

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WTTC Launches Hotel Sustainability Basics - TRAVELINDEX - SUSTAINABLEFIRST.comBerlin, Germany, March 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched the Hotel Sustainability Basics (Basics) verification scheme. Announced at ITB Berlin, Basics will enable tourist accommodation providers from around the world, regardless of their size, to begin their sustainability journey.

Basics, an industry-wide supported initiative, is a globally recognised and coordinated set of criteria that all hotels should implement as a minimum to drive responsible and sustainable Travel & Tourism.

Basics emerged as a result of a clear demand from a group of influential global hotel brands and whilst there a great number of sustainability initiatives, Basics focuses on an achievable starting point.

It will encourage all hospitality businesses to begin their sustainability journeys and redefine the non-negotiables of sustainability in the industry.

Made up of 12 key criteria, the Basics are achievable for all hotels to implement as a bare minimum. They serve as a stepping-stone to more complex sustainability schemes and even greater sustainability.

Basics has also been recognised by the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance as the starting point for a net positive industry, who announced the latest version of the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality.

Verification Scheme

In order to ensure the validity of the programme, WTTC partnered with Green Key and SGS to develop a simple online verification system to allow hotels to provide evidence and ensure they are following the Basics.

The verification scheme enables hotels and other tourist accommodation to be officially verified for meeting eight of the 12 criteria in the first year and demonstrate their commitment to working toward all 12 of the criteria by year three.

Together, the criteria ensure the sector is eco resilient and adaptive to the changing needs of the planet.

Hotel Partners

Six major international hotel groups, collectively representing tens of thousands of sites from around the world have now joined Basics as inaugural partners. The first hotel groups include well-known brands such as Accor, Jin Jiang International, Louvre Hotels Group, Meliá Hotels International, Meininger, and Radisson Hotel Group.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said “We are incredibly proud to have launched the verification scheme for Hotel Sustainability Basics. The initiative is a response to the sector’s need for a baseline for hotels and other tourist lodgings to start their sustainability journeys.

“Our research shows that most business owners are aware of their responsibility to the environment but many sustainability practices such as efficient water use initiatives are patchy. Basics fills the gap by creating that level playing field for the sector.

“It is testament to the need for such a scheme that already thousands of hotels from around the world have already signed up to Basics and are beginning their verification processes from today.”

Inge Huijbrechts, Global Senior Vice President of Sustainability, Security & Corporate Communications at Radisson Hotel Group said “Hotel Sustainability Basics is filling a new and unanswered demand in the hotel industry: to provide a solid, trusted, and clear label for essential hotel sustainability. It’s important we define responsible travel to preserve the planet and protect communities. With Hotel Sustainability Basics we offer the traveller a clear sustainable stay option for all types of hotels around the world.

“Radisson Hotel Group commits to implement Hotel Sustainability Basics in all its 1,100 hotels by 2025. We do this together with our shareholder Jin Jiang International, their affiliate Louvre Hotel Group and other major hotel groups and destinations around the world.”

Green Lodgings Trend Report

WTTC carried out an extensive international benchmarking exercise through the Green Lodgings Trends Report, learning from 27,000 accommodation providers on how they are currently fairing against the 12 criteria.

Crucially, this benchmark will allow WTTC to track the progress of Basics over time.

Almost 100% of accommodation providers implement at least one initiative to reduce inequality and 96% have adopted linen reuse programmes.

The report also showed many hoteliers are establishing sustainable practices but there is still a way to go for these to become common across the sector.

Two-thirds of those surveyed have already begun to eliminate the use of certain single-use plastics such as straws and implementing other waste reduction initiatives.

Emerging practices were also highlighted in the report.

Almost half of respondents have replaced small plastic toiletry bottles with bulk dispensers and a third now provide vegetarian options for every course in their food and beverage provision.

Sector Partners

In addition to the Alliance, WTTC collaborated with other key leading sector figures including representatives from Greenview, WTTC’s hotel members, Expedia, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and Trip.com Group, as well as the certification bodies SGS and Green Key.

Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance said “We are incredibly proud to work alongside the World Travel & Tourism Council to launch the Hotel Sustainability Basics. Basics is a key part of the Alliance’s Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality which sets ambitious targets to create a prosperous and responsible global hospitality sector that gives back to the destination more than it takes.

“Net Positive Hospitality is a tremendous objective for us to achieve. Going beyond net zero and actually being contributory to the world’s future is a bold ambition but one I believe that the sector can achieve.”

Randy Durband, CEO of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) said “Hotels throughout the world need to march towards sustainability quickly but the first step can be the hardest.

“The WTTC Hotel Sustainability Basics provide an excellent way to understand and take the first steps. With twelve clear actions that map to the eight of the GTSC Industry Criteria, the Basics are indeed an essential part of the journey.”

Jane Sun, Group CEO of Trip.com Group said “Sustainability is a collective goal. As demand for sustainable options increases, Trip.com Group will deepen cooperation with our partners, including WTTC, and empower hotels globally to adopt the best sustainability practices.”

Destination Partners

A number of global tourism destinations have already recognised the strength of Hotel Sustainability Basics and demonstrated their commitment to ensure their hotels implement the Basics.

Azerbaijan was the first Destination Partner to support the Basics, followed by other supporters such as Belize, Colombia, and Mauritius.

Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board said “The Basics are an important add-on to Azerbaijan’s sustainable tourism development strategy. We are committed to prioritize sustainability throughout the entire value chain and customer journey.

“We take pride in being a country partner of this initiative and pledge to continue our efforts in promoting responsible tourism practices.  Our mission is to care for the country’s intangible and tangible resources for future generations to enjoy, and a tourism industry, that benefits both visitors and hosts alike.”

Arturo Bravo, Vice Minister of Tourism of Colombia said “Sustainability in tourism is one of the guiding principles of Colombian politics. The objective of the Government of Colombia is to take advantage of our natural and cultural wealth in a conscious and responsible manner. Therefore, it is imperative that sustainable practices are essential in all tourism activities, so they must be implemented throughout the tourism value chain. That is why we support and endorse the program of the World Travel & Tourism Council, which is in tune with our national purposes and policies.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

MATTA Signs MOU with Estonia Finland and Poland at ITB Berlin

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MATTA Signs MOU with Estonia Finland and Poland at ITB Berlin - TRAVELINDEXBerlin, Germany, March 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) signed Memorandums of Understanding three European Tour and Travel Agency Associations at ITB Berlin marking a new level of cooperation between Malaysian tourism stakeholders and their European counterparts.

Memorandums were signed by MATTA President Tan Kok Lian and the Presidents of the following European associations:

• Anne Marjut, President of the Association of Finnish Travel Industry (SMAL)
• Pawel Niewiadomski, President of the Polish Chamber of Tourism (PIT)
• Kulli Karing, President of the Estonian Travel and Tourism Association (ETFL)

The signing was witnessed by:
• H.E. Dr. Adina Kamarudin (Ambassador of Malaysia to the German Republic)
• The Honorable Mdm. Christina Liew (Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah)
• The Honorable Mr. Loh Tze Yee (Perak State Executive Council of Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development)
• The Honorable Mr. Hee Loy Sian (Selangor State Executive Council of Tourism & Environment)

The memorandums, which places sustainable tourism as the centre of future growth, also focuses on enhancing consumer awareness of Malaysia as a safe and attractive holiday destination to the Polish, Finnish and Estonian markets.

This agreement with the global travel agency associations builds on and deepens the existing collaboration between the organizations to keep geared towards restoring travel to consumers.

“I am excited at the prospect of working very closely with our European counterparts to further develop inbound travel potential in to Malaysia. We will be developing new marketing and communication strategies to meet the demands for high-value tourism products,” said Tan.

“South east Asia is in expensive for European travellers but costly and excessive airfares and limited connectivity are the biggest obstacles for those looking to travel to the region. We hope that this renewed interest in Malaysia and the region will encourage airlines to establish more direct routes”.

MATTA, which has participated independently at ITB Berlin since 2018, has negotiated several Memorandums of Understanding with counterparts from high-potential source markets and is a member of the European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Associations (ECTAA)

“Our participation in ITB Berlin and our commitment to the European market strongly underlines our sustainable tourism strategy, which we believe will be key to the future of our nation, its people and our economy on the long term,” he added.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Alain St. Ange Addresses New Initiatives for World Tourism at ITB Berlin

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Alain St. Ange Addresses New Initiatives for World Tourism at ITB Berlin - VISITSEYCHELLES.org - TRAVELINDEXBerlin, Germany, March 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Alain St.Ange, the former Seychelles Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine took to the podium at the PATWA World Tourism and Aviation Leaders Summit to speak on the important topic of ‘New Initiatives for World Tourism.

St.Ange was part of a panel of speakers that included Shruti Shibulal, the CEO and Director of Tamara Leisure Experiences, Winnie Muchanyuka, the CEO of Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, H.E. Ilin Dimitrov, Minister of Tourism in Bulgaria and H.E. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism in Jamaica.

After opening remarks by Yatan Ahluwalia, the SG of PATWA in front of a packed conference room, Alain St.Ange spoke about the need for Tourism Destinations and everyone involved in tourism to take stock of what existed before as key USBs (unique selling points) and to analyse why they did not bring the needed returns or if they had worked how to increase their potential further using the most sustainable approach possible.

St.Ange addressed at length the different niche markets and the potential each of them continues to carry and used Cruise Ship Business as one saying that more could be achieved if the merits of this vital industry was understood. He said it remained the Tourism destinations to work with cruise ship companies to get the maximum number of passengers to disembark at a port call and secondly to work to maximise followup potential from all passengers who do not disembark and to look at them as a tourism trade fair on a public day. “Each passenger on board has friends and family members who are potential visitors for the destination if the passengers were properly sold the destination. We should never miss such opportunities” said St.Ange before talking on future strategies and initiatives.

The Seychelles former Minister spoke about consolidation of the workforce and for destinations to ‘claim back’ their tourism industry as it had the potential to put money into the pockets of each and every citizen of their respective countries. “The time to walk alone is gone, join forces as regional blocks, create new tourism destinations as was done in the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands. Make the USPs of one beclme the USPs of every member in the region. Be innovative and always bear in mind that together one is always stronger than being alone and isolated”.

Alain St.Ange ended his address on the essential need of increased visibility for each tourism destination. “Out of sight is out of mind and not relevant anymore as a possible holiday destination” he said in ending.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Celebrates Official Opening Of ITB Berlin: Tourism Always Comes Back

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UNWTO Celebrates Official Opening Of ITB Berlin Tourism Always Comes Back - TRAVELINDEXBerlin, Germany, March 7, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism is on track to achieve full recovery this year and ready to deliver on its potential as a pillar of peace and sustainability, UNWTO has told sector leaders at ITB in Berlin.

As the leading tourism trade fair celebrates its first in-person event since 2019, UNWTO data shows that more than twice as many people travelled internationally in January  as they did at the start of last year. According to UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, the message is clear: “Tourism always comes back”, and the return of ITB, alongside the recent re-opening of China, is clear proof of renewed confidence in international travel.

Building a better tourism

Secretary-General Pololiksahvili was invited to be part of the official inauguration ceremony for ITB 2023, alongside Germany’s Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, Berlin Mayor Franziska Giffey, and public and private sector leaders. While welcoming the positive data, he also stressed that tourism has a “responsibility to grow back better. We must speed up and scale up to a more sustainable and resilient tourism.”

Outlining UNWTO’s priorities for the sector, Mr. Pololikashvili urged both governments and businesses to recognize the importance of education and training, as well as the crucial role of investment – the “missing ingredient” for turning plans for greater sustainability and resilience into reality. Investment will be the theme for World Tourism Day 2023, to be celebrated on 27 September.

UNWTO at ITB 2023

At ITB 2023, UNWTO will be part of a special Industry Roundtable, focusing on ‘transitions in travel’, while also sharing key knowledge and insights into tourism’s climate action efforts, and expectations for tourist behaviour as the sector’s recovery continues. UNWTO will also provide an update of its leading work in tourism for rural development, including through the Best Tourism Villages initiative.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Strong comeback for the World’s Largest Travel Trade Show

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Strong comeback for the World’s Largest Travel Trade Show - TRAVELINDEX - TOURISMAFRICA.orgBerlin, February 20, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Around 90 per cent of the available stand area is occupied – The multi-purpose hall hub27, which is fully booked, is the destination hot spot – Debut for the German marketplace – Cultural tourism organisers are represented in the Culture Lounge – High participation in the Travel Technology, Mobility and Cruise segments

A fitting live comeback: following the break due to the pandemic and taking as its slogan ‘Open for Change’, ITB Berlin, the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show, is back as an in-person event from 7 to 9 March 2023, with domestic and international exhibitors present in large numbers. Around 90 per cent of the available display area is already booked. This year’s ITB Berlin is for the first time taking place for trade visitors only and is accompanied by the prestigious ITB Berlin Convention. Selected programme items will be streamed on the supporting online platform at ITBxplore.

New multi-purpose hall – hub27

At ITB Berlin 2023 the destination hot spot is hub27, the new multi-purpose hall, which is fully booked. Georgia, the official host country of ITB Berlin, is strongly represented, as are Austria, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Poland, Armenia, Azerbaijan, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Berlin, Brandenburg and Deutsche Bahn, along with various airports from around Germany. The ITB Blogger Base, the place to head for all international travel bloggers, is also located in hub27.

The stand of the German National Tourism Board (DZT) features the federal states of Baden-Württemberg, Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, the Saarland, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Schleswig-Holstein and Thuringia. The German federal states of Bavaria, Bremen (including Bremerhaven), Hesse and Lower Saxony are represented on their own stands in Hall 6.2. Spherie is a company taking part for the first time and will present spectacular drone images.

High international participation

Demand for places is high among Greek exhibitors, who are represented in Hall 1.1. Italy, Croatia, Macedonia, Malta and Bosnia, all located in Hall 1.2, are also represented in large numbers again. Albania, whose exhibitors are spread over three halls (including Hall 1.1), is also present in large numbers. In Hall 2.1, participation by Spain’s tourism industry is also impressive and features the large stands of Turespaña and the Costa del Sol. Turkey is presenting its tourism products in Halls 3.1b and 3.2a. The Business Travel (VDR association) and MICE (VDVO association) segments have always been important at ITB Berlin and this year are also represented on large stands in Hall 3.1.

In Halls 22 and 23 visitors can also expect large representations from Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Guyana, Colombia, Mexico, Nicaragua, Peru, Paraguay, Surinam, Uruguay and the Caribbean islands Aruba, Curacao, Martinique, the Bahamas, Jamaica, Antigua, Trinidad and Tobago, Cuba, Barbados and the Dominican Republic.

This year, Hall 21 is completely devoted to sub-Saharan countries, including South Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius, Réunion, the Seychelles, Botswana, Ghana, The Gambia, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Zanzibar and Zambia. This year, a number of African countries, among them Ethiopia, Rwanda, Guinea and Senegal, are located in Hall 22.

Representations from the USA and Canada are exhibiting in Hall 3.1, along with Israel. Following a break, the Condor airline is back at ITB Berlin in Hall 3.1. International representations in the ITB Career Center, Adventure / Responsible Tourism and Youth Travel segments are featured in Hall 4.1. The new ITB Lighthouse Stage in Hall 4.1b will be hosting presentations, discussions and networking events under the headings Adventure Travel, Responsible Tourism and Tourism Careers.

Another innovation in Hall 4.1 is the LGBTQ+ Pavilion. Exhibitors there include Visit Malta, which will present this year’s Europride, and Communitat Valenciana, which will be represented at the Gay Games 2026, as well as Visit Buenos Aires and Visit Tampa Bay. The Munich Tourism Board, Proudly Portugal, IGLTA, TOMONTOUR and the Florida Keys and Key West are also represented with stands.

As in previous years, Arab countries from North Africa and the Middle East are strongly represented, with Egypt, Morocco, Qatar and Oman located in Hall 4.2, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and newcomer Saudi Arabia in Hall 3.2b. This year, Saudi Arabia is the largest exhibitor at ITB Berlin. Its co-exhibitors include NEOM, the giant smart city project in the desert. Lebanon is back at ITB Berlin in Hall 3.2.

In Halls 5.2a and 5.2b the focus is on India, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Nepal, New Zealand, Australia and Haiti. Bhutan is among those back at the largest marketplace for the international travel industry. The Meet The Pacific stand is new and features the Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa and Vanuatu. VisitLuxembourg, the Dutch Tourism Board and visit.brussels from the Benelux countries are represented in Hall 6.2b.

In Hall 9, Airbnb Germany is exhibiting for the first time at ITB Berlin, as are Gorgeous Smiling Hotels GmbH, Hard Rock International and HomeToGo GmbH. Other exhibitors in this hall include B&B Hotels Germany GmbH, Wheego share.rent.abo, DRIVALIA, Green Motion, and the hotel chains NH, Marriott, Best Western, Hilton and Steigenberger. This is also the first time the Hyatt Inclusive Collection is represented at ITB Berlin, in Hall 22.

As in previous years, the Nordic and Baltic countries as well as Ireland are strongly represented in Hall 20. The UK also has a large stand again. Among individual exhibitors, Greenland Travel is on the same area as in previous years, as are Bero Berlin, Via Hansa, GJ Travel and Icelandair. Visitors to the stand of myPostcard can mail postcards for free to ITB Berlin. The following are newcomers to the show: St. Giles Hotels, V.O.S. Aps, Gainwell Sports, the Tour Partner Group, Holiday Tours Iceland, Manchester City FC, made in 2010, Boatservice Sightseeing As, Aavasaksa Lapland, as well as the European Capital of Smart Tourism, an initiative of the European Commission.

In the Asia Hall (26a/b), the destinations awaiting visitors are Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the Philippines, Japan, Tokyo, South Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Mongolia, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar and Cambodia. China is represented by the provinces Zhejiang and Huangshan.

Numerous exhibitors in the Travel Technology and Mobility segments and from the cruise sector

The Travel Technology and Mobility segments are back with large numbers of exhibitors. All the Travel Technology halls are fully booked. This is where exhibitors such as GIATA, Sabre, Amadeus and Peakwork combine proven concepts with innovative ideas – true to the slogan ’Open for Change’. The eTravel World in Hall 6.1 is also larger than in previous years and features many startups and an extended eTravel Stage. Among the tech companies taking part are ASKSUITE TECNOLOGIA LTDA, Blastness, BUSINESS FRANCE, Spain Travel Tech, HiJiffy, Hotelmize, mTrip and Qtravel.ai.

International airlines, cruise liners and tour operators are represented with their products in Hall 25. Exhibitors from the resurgent cruise sector in particular are represented in record numbers at ITB Berlin 2023. MSC Cruises, Explorer Journeys, VIVA Cruises and United Rivers are taking part for the first time with their own stands, while regular exhibitors such as Holland America Line, nicko cruises and Norwegian Cruise Lines are well represented again.

Medical Tourism has its own hall

A large number of exhibitors in the Medical & Health Tourism Hall (26c) are from Turkey. Numerous new clinics as well as medical hotels and destinations are represented there. This made it possible to occupy the entire hall with medical & health exhibitors and the stage programme.

German marketplace marks its debut and the Culture Lounge features cultural tourism organisers

Hall 6.2 is where the Culture Lounge, a large display area for cultural tourism organisers, can be found. Among the close to 50 co-exhibitors are several European museums, festivals, cultural regions and trusts.

This year, the German marketplace is marking its debut in Hall 6.2. Exhibitors there include the Semperoper Dresden, Ferienpark Weissenhäuser Strand, Hirmer Hospitality, Flughafen Hamburg GmbH, Harzer Schmalspurbahnen GmbH, Wirtschaftsförderung & Technologietransfer GmbH, Stöcker Flughafen GmbH & Co. KG, ProAir-Charter-Transport GmbH, Phoenix des Lumières, ZEIT Verlagsgruppe and TÜV Rheinland.

A new feature this year is the Street Food Market in Hall 7.2c where visitors can take a culinary tour and fully enjoy international cuisine.

Luxury travel segment HOME of LUXURY by ITB

23 exhibitors from the luxury travel market are represented at the Marshall Haus on the exhibition grounds, including Serverin’s Resort & Spa, FUORITINERARIO and Quark Expeditions, along with media members from Luxus Insider and Connoisseur Circle.

About ITB Berlin and the ITB Berlin Convention
ITB Berlin 2023 will take place from Tuesday, 7 March, to Thursday, 9 March, as a pure B2B event. Since 1966, ITB Berlin has been the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show. The internationally renowned ITB Berlin Convention will take place parallel to the show and will be held live on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds – selected sessions will be streamed on ITBxplore. The ITB Berlin convention is the world’s largest travel industry event of its kind. In 2022 it took place as a virtual event on the brand’s website itb .com and registered 60,700 attendees from 125 countries who took part in more than 100 sessions featuring 223 speakers. In 2022, under the heading ’TRVLX by ITB’, ITB Berlin has planned a series of B2B networking events in European markets – the kick-off event took place in May in Georgia. Before the pandemic at ITB Berlin 2019, around 10,000 exhibitors from 181 countries displayed their products and services to some 160,000 visitors, including 113,500 trade visitors.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News