Posts Tagged :

Philippines

BWH Hotels to Relaunch Best Western Plus Subic, Philippines

 1080 691 wttc2
By:

BWH Hotels to Relaunch Best Western Plus Subic, Philippines - TRAVELINDEXSubic Bay, Philippines, December 20, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels, the leading global hospitality network comprised of WorldHotels, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, continues to expand its footprint in the Philippines with the relaunch of Best Western Plus Hotel Subic.

Part of the BWH Hotels’ portfolio since its opening in 2018, Best Western Plus Hotel Subic will return to the group on March 31st, 2025, following an extensive renovation that will re-establish it as one of the leading places to stay in Subic. Nestled on the west coast of Luzon, this freeport zone is a popular destination for business and leisure travelers alike, with sandy beaches and a variety of attractions. Clark International Airport is just 50 km away and Manila can be reached in 2.5 hours.

Upon reopening, Best Western Plus Hotel Subic will feature a collection of contemporary rooms and suites, a sea-facing rooftop pool and deck, a well-equipped fitness center, and a choice of two restaurants. The hotel’s dedicated events hall sets the stage for business and social gatherings, including weddings.

Best Western Plus Hotel Subic will join BWH Hotels’ existing portfolio of eight hotels and resorts in the Philippines, across a wide range of vibrant cities and resort destinations. The Best Western Plus® brand is already well known and loved among the country’s travelers, with four properties currently operating in the Philippines.

For a complete travel guide on the Philippines, click here…

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

PATA International Conference on Women in Travel Shines Spotlight on Gender Equality

 1007 638 wttc2
By:

Bohol, Philippines, March 23, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The inaugural PATA International Conference on Women in Travel, organised by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and hosted by the Department of Tourism, Philippines, concluded on Friday, March 22, 2024, at the BE Grand Resort in Bohol, Philippines. With nearly 200 delegates from 15 destinations in attendance, the conference brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and advocates to discuss the critical role of women in the travel and tourism sector.

Throughout the three-day event, delegates explored the challenges and opportunities faced by women in the travel industry, celebrating their achievements and addressing gender disparities. Keynote speakers, influential panellists, and engaging discussions highlighted the pressing need for gender equality and empowerment in the tourism workforce, emphasising the importance of inclusivity and career growth for all ‘women in travel’.

Pressing issues such as the underrepresentation of women in senior management positions were addressed in the conference. Discussions also focused on actionable steps to promote women’s leadership development, foster entrepreneurship, and advance sustainable practices with women as agents of change.

Delivering her keynote message at the preeminent event, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomed hundreds of speakers and delegates from the Philippines and all over the world, including Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“I would like to express my profound gratitude to PATA for its partnership with the Philippines in the inaugural holding of the International Conference on Women in Travel. Holding this conference in the Philippines is timely, especially here where over 50 percent of the workforce of our country is composed of women, and here in our region in the Asia Pacific, where nearly 50 percent of the tourism industry is composed of women. We recognize the importance of this conference focusing on empowering women, tourism professionals, promoting gender equality, fostering leadership stories, successes, and opportunities,” Secretary Frasco said.

In her keynote remarks, Secretary Frasco also shared before delegates her fair share of challenges of juggling official duties as a woman leader and a mother of four children, from her tenure as a three-term Mayor of the Municipality of Liloan in Cebu amid the COVID-19 pandemic and Supertyphoon Odette that hit Cebu in 2021, and now as Secretary of the DOT and the youngest member of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s cabinet upon the President’s invitation in 2022.

“I recognize that countless women must similarly confront the challenge of juggling work with caregiving responsibilities, and unfortunately, many of these significant sacrifices go unnoticed and underappreciated,” Secretary Frasco said.

“Which is why ever since I came into the fold of the DOT, it became my mission to ensure that the efforts of the Department must not only be focused on achieving numbers and targets, rather, it must also focus on ensuring the well-being of our workforce, dedicated to building a tourism industry that ensures that we put tourism workers at the forefront of the government’s priorities, particularly, women, who play a pivotal role in shaping our tourism landscape—from our female guides, all the way to our female officials. I sought to leverage the feminist values that guided me as Mayor: sensitivity, nurturance, humanity, and love, and extend them to a national scale, ensuring that the tourism sector serves not only as a vehicle of economic prosperity, but also as a force for promoting human dignity,” the DOT chief added.

Towards this direction, the DOT, for the first time ever, has appointed Tourism Integrates, Supports, and Minds Women’s Rights and Child Safety (TourISM WoRCS) Officers across the regions in the country to ensure that the Philippines “remains a woman- and child-safe destination”, with the Tourism Worcs manual soon to be rolled out among the Department’s various operational units to equip them with the knowledge and tools to effectively combat sexual harassment, trafficking and gender-based violence within the sector.

Furthermore, in a bid to herald the unique and world-renowned brand of Filipino hospitality and invest in the Filipino workforce, Secretary Frasco shared the DOT’s attainment of its target of training 100,000 workers on the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) program in 2023. The DOT surpassed this goal, having trained 127,125 workers trained on the FBSE last year. Of this, 70,208 or 55.2% of the trained workforce are women.

“This milestone sets a resoundingly optimistic tone for our industry, affirming our long-held belief that women can and should access meaningful opportunities within the tourism sector,” Secretary Frasco said.

“As a result of the unwavering commitment of Tourism Secretary H.E. Christina Garcia Fransco and the steadfast support provided by the Department of Tourism Philippines, this inaugural conference was an enormous success. Building on this outcome, PATA remains committed to organising the PATA International Conference on Women in Travel with other member destinations in the future to ensure that conversations on women’s empowerment can continue and be elevated,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.

He added, “As a community, we must unite to discuss tangible strategies aimed at breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and implementing industry-wide changes that pave the pathways for women to excel in the travel industry. It is the Association’s wish that this event served as a catalyst for impactful initiatives and collaborative efforts towards a better future for women in all facets of tourism.”

To further highlight the significance of women’s leadership, Senator Loren Legarda, Senate President Pro-Tempore, Senate of the Philippines, delivered the closing keynote, emphasising the need for concerted efforts to achieve gender parity in the sector.

During the conference, delegates had the chance to hear from a diverse line-up of inspiring speakers from various sectors, including Senator Loren Legarda, Senate President Pro-Tempore, Senate of the Philippines; H.E. Christina Garcia Frasco, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Philippines; the Honourable Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado, Governor of the Province of Bohol; Atty. Mae Elaine T. Bathan, Undersecretary, Legal and Special Concerns and Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary and Chairperson, Gender and Development Focal Point System of the Department of Tourism, Philippines; Dr. Saninuj “PONG” Sawasdikosol, DM, President of San Travel Service & Business Consultants / Woman Activist & Advocate in LGBTQ Community, San Francisco; Maria Patria Alodia Puyat, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Philippines; Christine Ella Castañeda, DEAFInite Tour Guide; Aye Mya Mya Soe, General Manager – Cambodia, Intrepid Travel; Chieko Yokota, Gender Specialist, Gender Equality Division, Asian Development Bank (ADB); Preeti Naini, Regional Product Manager, APAC, Go City; Queenie Chung, Deputy General Manager, Vpon HK; Ha Lam, Founder, The Happy Firm; Linda Adami, Founder and CEO, Quantum Temple; Maria Paz Alberto, Chair, PATA Philippine Chapter; Nandini Lahe Thapa, Officiating CEO, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB); Dr. Supawan Teerarat, PhD., President, National Food Institute, Foundation of Industrial Development, Ministry of Industry, Thailand and Former Senior Vice President of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Prime Minister’s Office; Catherine Turvill, President Nurture Wellness Village, Nurture Farmacy, Spa & Wellness Professionals, Philippines; Shradha Shrestha, Manager, Nepal Tourism Board and National Project Coordinator, Sustainable Tourism for Livelihood Recovery Project, Nepal, and Sangeetha Liyanapathirana, Manager – Health, Hygiene and Sustainability, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and 2023 PATA Face of the Future, Sri Lanka.

Topics included ‘Breaking Barriers: Women’s Empowerment in the Travel Industry’, ‘Gender Equality and Development’, ‘Women Behind the Scenes’, ‘Tourism Startups and Entrepreneurship’, ‘Leading the Way: Inspirational Women in Travel’, and ‘Sustainable Travel: Women as Agents of Change’.

The conference concluded with a welcome dinner reception hosted by the Tourism Promotions Board, Philippines, providing delegates with networking opportunities and continued discussions on joint efforts in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in travel and tourism.

On the final day of the programme, delegates had the option of joining two different technical tours arranged by the Department of Tourism, Philippines:

– Southern Bohol Circuit Tour, where participants explored the wonders of Southern Bohol, including a visit to Santa Monica Parish Church of Alburquerque, experiencing the making of Bohol’s popular delicacy ‘Calamay’, and engaging in a variety of activities at the Bohol Bee Farm;
– Bohol Countryside Tour, where delegates took a relaxing journey through the Bohol Countryside, explored the geological marvels of the Chocolate Hills and drifted down the Loboc River on a serene cruise.

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

 

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Batanes Islands Joins the UNWTO Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories

 700 392 wttc2
By:

 

Batanes Islands Joins the UNWTO Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories - TRAVELINDEXBatanes Islands, Philippines, June 29, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has welcomed Batanes in the Philippines as the latest addition to its International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO).

Led by the Batanes Tourism and Hospitality Monitoring Centre (BTHMC), in collaboration with the province and its local stakeholders, this observatory is committed to supporting the sustainable development of tourism based on evidence and a participatory approach. These commitments are instrumental in building a sustainable and resilient tourism sector that benefits the local people, the Ivatans, as well as visitors, while ensuring environmental and cultural conservation. The observatory joins UNWTO’s growing international network of observatories, all of which are dedicated to creating inclusive and healthy spaces for both visitors and host communities, while promoting the responsible management of tourism.

Inclusive decision-making

For a destination like the Batanes Islands, such measurement work is even more relevant as it will help to preserve the uniqueness of the islands and build a responsible sector that benefits the local people and visitors alike

Through a participatory process, the Observatory has gained detailed insights into the key sustainability issues identified by the indigenous Ivatans and will continue to expand its measurement focus towards environmental and social areas in line with the INSTO Framework. This approach will help the Batanes Islands in managing tourism development responsibly and sustainably, by taking a holistic view and developing adequate, innovative strategies.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “For any destination, measurement is important as it provides a better understanding of where a destination stands and where it wants to go. For a destination like the Batanes Islands, such measurement work is even more relevant as it will help to preserve the uniqueness of the islands and build a responsible sector that benefits the local people and visitors alike. We are very pleased to welcome the Batanes Observatory as a new member of the INSTO network.”

The governor of Batanes, Ms. Marilou Cayco noted: “We are honoured to become the first member in the International Network of Observatories in the Philippines. Being part of this network will allow us to better assess the impact of the growing tourism sector in the Batanes Islands and provide us with the relevant evidence to inform future policies and decisions to ensure that tourism is sustainable and resilient”.

About Batanes and its Observatory

Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines, located around 160km north of the mainland.  An archipelago of ten islands, of which the three largest are inhabited, its capital is Basco and the province is home to the indigenous Ivatan people. The islands are also home to some unique plants and endemic animals, and serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds.

The Observatory is managed by a multi-disciplinary team from the Asian Institute of Tourism, the Department of Hotel Restaurant and Institution Management, and the Institute of Civil Engineering from the University of the Philippines Diliman. A technical working group composed of tourism stakeholders in Batanes work closely with the research team in managing the operations of the Observatory. In addition, a partnership with the Batanes State College and the Provincial Government of Batanes has been established for carrying out research activities.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

BWH Celebrates Extension and Relaunch of Best Western Plus Metro Clark

 700 428 wttc2
By:

BWH Celebrates Extension and Relaunch of Best Western Plus Metro Clark - TRAVELINDEX - VISITPHILIPPINES.orgAngeles City, Philippines, June 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / BWH Hotels is celebrating the opening of a major extension at Best Western Plus Metro Clark in the Philippines. Situated in the heart of Angeles City, this 14-story hotel has been upgraded and rebranded. Formerly known as Best Western Metro Clark, it now offers a total of 186 contemporary rooms, all equipped with comfortable king or twin beds, modern amenities and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Three diverse international dining options are available, including Namari Japanese Bistro, The Legend Hong Kong Seafood Restaurant and Cactus Jack Smokehouse. Guests who want to relax with refreshments and great views of Angeles City can chill out at Jack’s Pool Bar.

Travelers can also cool off in the outdoor pool and work out at the fitness center, while the hotel’s extensive event space makes Best Western Plus Metro Clark an outstanding venue for corporate meetings and social gatherings.

Best Western Plus Metro Clark is easily accessible, just 10km from Clark International Airport and approximately 2.5 hours’ drive from Manila. With a prime position on the McArthur Highway, Angeles City’s main thoroughfare, the hotel is surrounded by attractions including restaurants, bars, shops and casinos. The Saver’s Mall is located right next door.

“We are delighted to celebrate the extension and relaunch of Best Western Plus Metro Clark. This was already a popular place to stay in the center of Angeles City. Now, following this important extension, we will be able to attract a wider range of travelers – including business and leisure guests – while also attracting local residents and other visitors to our restaurants. We look forward to welcoming everybody to this newly revitalized hotel,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

Best Western now operates five hotels in the Philippines: Best Western Plus Metro Clark, Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel, Best Western Plus The Ivywall Resort-Panglao, SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western AC LUXE Angeles City, and SureStay Studio by Best Western Clarkview.

For more information about BWH Hotels in Asia, please visit bestwesternasia.com.

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 19 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.
*Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Continues Expansion in the Philippines with First MGallery Resort

 700 417 wttc2
By:

Accor Continues Expansion in the Philippines with First MGallery Resort - TRAVELINDEX - VISITPHILIPPINES.orgBohol, Philippines, March 13, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Accor has continued its rapid expansion in the Philippines with the signing of South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol – MGallery, a locally-inspired five-star resort on the idyllic island of Panglao that will introduce this emerging destination’s unique heritage and community values to visitors from all around the world. The resort joins a strong pipeline of 16 committed projects across the country, and will become the first resort-style property for MGallery in the Philippines.

Scheduled to open its doors in 2024, the 188-key South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol – MGallery will be nestled within 6.4-hectare of expansive grounds, surrounded by palm trees and overlooking the powder-soft sands of Panglao’s South coast. Throughout their stay in this tropical paradise, travellers will be able to soak up the stunning scenery and explore the island’s cultural charms and natural wonders, including snorkelling and scuba diving in the turquoise seas.

When guests are not exploring the island or neighbouring Bohol, they will be able to dine at a choice of four restaurants, cool off in the swimming pool, grab refreshments at the pool bar, work out in a well-equipped fitness centre, or enjoy soothing therapies at the spa. A ballroom and meeting rooms will also present compelling opportunities for original, out-of-town corporate events and dream weddings. Everything for guests to create their own stories, stories that stay.

South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol – MGallery is being developed by Alturas Group of Companies (AGC) with support from Bill Barnett, Managing Director of Asian hospitality consultancy C9 Hotelworks. AGC is a family-run business with a deep emotional connection to Bohol and Panglao. The resort will weave the timeless tales of family and folklore into every aspect of the guest experience. Using a pioneering ‘adaptive reuse’ design approach, the project will embrace the history of the destination by reusing materials from village dwellings in every room. These materials include wooden walls and objects that tell the story of local artisans. This inspiring concept is perfectly aligned with the values of MGallery, Accor’s one-of-a-kind global collection of hotels where captivating stories are lived and shared.

“South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol – MGallery is an exceptional resort that adds another outstanding destination to our expanding presence in Southeast Asia, joining our flourishing collection of memorable hotels and resorts full of character and charm. Panglao is an island paradise that promises the perfect blend of soft, sandy beaches, sparkling seas and rich cultural heritage, encouraging more globally-minded travelers to experience its pleasures, and connecting them to the delights of the local neighborhoods. The opening of Bohol-Panglao International Airport in 2018 has allowed this exotic island to usher in an exciting new era of travel and tourism, and we are delighted to be at the forefront of this trend. We look forward to working with our partners at AGC to bring this exciting, locally inspired project to life,” said Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery and Emblems.

South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol – MGallery will be surrounded by extensive leisure and MICE facilities courtesy of Panglao Shores, AGC’s brand-new lifestyle destination that will feature a retail mall, residential and hotels, night market, live performance areas, restaurants, bars and gardens. Developed from the ground up with sustainability as its guiding light and in consultation with local artisans, vendors, farmers and fishing communities, the future-forward development is designed to benefit the island for many generations to come.

“AGC is a family company that was born in Bohol and cares deeply about this destination. By coming together with Accor, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, we are proud to enhance the quality of hospitality on the island by blending world-class facilities and international standards with the genuine local charm and authentic cultural heritage of Bohol, which is based on shared community values. In combination with Panglao Shores, our destination-defining lifestyle development, we hope to build a bright future for the people of Panglao,” commented Hope Uy, Managing Director of Panglao Shores.

South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol – MGallery is located less than 10 minutes’ drive from Bohol-Panglao International Airport, which offers direct flights to and from Manila and other cities in the Philippines, with the potential for international flights in future.

Accor is the leading international hotel operator in the Philippines with ten hotels, resorts and branded residences currently operating and a committed pipeline of 16 hotels scheduled to open within the next five years. South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol – MGallery is the second MGallery branded property in the Philippines, joining the Admiral Hotel Manila – MGallery.

About Accor
Accor is a world leading hospitality group offering experiences across more than 110 countries in 5 400 properties, 10 000 food & beverage venues, wellness facilities or flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry’s most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing more than 40 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. Accor is committed to taking positive action in terms of business ethics & integrity, responsible tourism, sustainable development, community outreach, and diversity & inclusion. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on Euronext Paris (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States.

About MGallery Hotel Collection
The MGallery Hotel Collection brand thoughtfully selects and curates unique properties around the world, forming a storied collection of boutique hotels with true soul where captivating stories are lived and shared. With more than 100 properties, each MGallery tells a unique story inspired by its own remarkable past or the destination it calls home. From bespoke design and sensorial mixology to well-being dedicated to everyday self-care, MGallery hotels are places where guests can enjoy an exquisite travel experience. MGallery Hotel Collection guests live a distinctive story through their delightful visits to these stylish, thoughtful and decidedly singular hotels. Well-known properties in the MGallery Hotel Collection include Hotel Molitor Paris – MGallery, INK Hotel Amsterdam – MGallery, Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – MGallery, The Porter House Hotel Sydney – MGallery in Australia, Muse Bangkok Langsuan – MGallery in Thailand, and Hotel des Arts Saigon – MGallery in Vietnam. MGallery Hotel Collection is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,400 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Signs Landmark Agreement for Luxury Integrated Resort in Clark

 500 310 wttc2
By:

Accor Signs Landmark Agreement for Luxury Integrated Resort in Clark - VISITPHILIPPINES.org - TRAVELINDEXClark City, Philippines, August 23, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The signing of Sofitel Clark and Emblems Clark will expand the well-established partnership between Hann and Accor to six hotels. Accor is expanding its presence in the Philippines with the signing of two new properties in Clark City. Located within a luxury integrated resort, Hann Lux, Sofitel Clark and Emblems Clark will offer convenient access to high-end fashion stores, French inspired cafes and convention facilities. Sofitel Clark will comprise 300 guest rooms while the Emblems Clark will feature 200 guest rooms. The landmark multi-agreement signing will see the expansion of a well-established partnership between Hann and Accor to six hotels in Clark, Philippines.

Sofitel Clark will welcome guests with a ‘magnifique’ array of elegant experiences which embrace local culture, the best of gastronomy and wellbeing. Sofitel Hotels & Resorts, a brand known for its French origins, artfully blends the essence of each destination with French art de vivre, creating chic experiences for modern voyageurs to indulge in and celebrate life’s pleasures. The Sofitel family today counts over 120 hotels across 47 countries with more than 20 hotels in the pipeline.

Emblems Clark will join an up-and-coming collection of emblematic hotels within Accor’s luxury portfolio. The Emblems Collection, launched in 2021, was created to bring together truly iconic hotels that are a symbol of luxury. No matter the destination, guests staying at an Emblems Collection location will experience the feel of being part of an exclusive and select club. Accor aims to open 60 Emblems properties around the world by 2030.

Both Sofitel Clark and Emblems Clark will feature all-day dining and speciality restaurants, as well as swimming pools, spas, fitness centres, meetings and conferencing spaces, and executive lounges.

“We are proud to expand our strategic relationship with Hann in this landmark multi-agreement signing. This reaffirms the trust and confidence owners place in Accor, our relationship driven-approach towards partners, and the popularity of our brands powered by strong distribution and lifestyle loyalty platforms. We are also thrilled and extremely proud to introduce two very special properties to vibrant Clark. Sofitel Clark and Emblems Clark will both bring an iconic sense of luxury to Hann Lux, and we are delighted to be working with our valued partners, Hann Philippines, to bring their unique vision to life,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer, Accor, Southeast Asia, Japan and South Korea.

The Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ) is located in the Central Luzon region of the Philippines, with an array of golf courses, MICE offerings and casinos. The city is easily accessible by way of Clark International Airport or by car from Metro Manila, located less than 2 hours’ drive away.

“We are excited to expand our partnership further with Accor, a global leader in the hospitality industry. Having Sofitel Clark and Emblems Clark in Hann Lux will surely make it a celebrated destination, attracting tourists not only from all over the Philippines but also from around the world,” said Daesik Han, Chairman and CEO, Hann Philippines Inc. (HPI).

In 2019, Accor and Hann signed multi-agreements for Banyan Tree Clark, Angsana Clark, Mercure Clark and Swissôtel Clark. The first phase of Swissôtel Clark launched in February 2022, with the broader hotel complex set to debut later this year, featuring 372 rooms and five vibrant restaurants and bars.

Accor is one of the leading international operators in the Philippines with 10 hotels across three regions and a strong pipeline of 14 committed projects across the country.

About Accor
Accor is a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,000 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. The group has one of the industry’s most diverse and fully-integrated hospitality ecosystems encompassing luxury and premium brands, midscale and economy offerings, unique lifestyle concepts, entertainment and nightlife venues, restaurants and bars, branded private residences, shared accommodation properties, concierge services, co-working spaces and more. Accor also boasts an unrivalled portfolio of distinctive brands and approximately 300,000 team members worldwide. Over 65 million members benefit from the company’s comprehensive loyalty program ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a daily lifestyle companion that provides access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences. Through its Planet 21 – Acting Here, Accor Solidarity, RiiSE and ALL Heartist Fund initiatives, the group is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity and inclusivity. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACRFY) in the United States.

About Sofitel
Sofitel Hotels & Resorts is an ambassador of modern French style, culture and art-de-vivre around the world. Established in 1964, Sofitel is the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France with more than 120 chic and remarkable hotels in the world’s most sought after destinations. Sofitel exudes a refined and understated sense of modern luxury, always blending a touch of French decadence with the very best of the locale. The Sofitel collection includes such notable hotels as Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg, Sofitel London St James, Sofitel Munich Bayerpost, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour and Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort. Sofitel is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,300 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

About Emblems Collection
Emblems Collection is a captivating global portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts. Featuring rare properties that are ‘emblematic’ of their designers, demographics or destinations, hotels within the Emblems Collection stand apart as revered landmarks with character, history and aura. Signature elements include sumptuous surroundings, charismatic service and exclusive bars. With its first property – Guiyang Art Centre Hotel, Emblems Collection in China’s Guizhou province – slated to open in 2023, the luxury brand is expected to grow to 60 select locations around the world by 2030. Emblems Collection is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,300 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Global Summit Announces Saudi Arabia as Next Host of Global Summit

 500 304 wttc2
By:

WTTC Global Summit Announces Saudi Arabia as Next Host of Global Summit - TOURISMSAUDIARABIA.com - TRAVELINDEXManila, Philippines, April 23, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / At the closing session of its Global Summit in Manila, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) announced that its 22nd event will take place in Riyadh, capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from 29th November to 2nd December this year.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Saudi Arabia, visit TourismSaudiArabia.com

In Manila, more than a thousand delegates, including the world’s foremost business leaders, government ministers and key decision-makers from across the global Travel & Tourism sector gathered together, to discuss how to build upon the continuing recovery.

In her farewell address Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “It has been a privilege to bring together so many leaders from across the global Travel & Tourism sector to the beautiful city of Manila.

“This Summit is living proof that nothing beats getting together, sharing ideas, debating the challenges, and finding consensus.

“We still have a lot of work to do to bring down post-pandemic barriers, open economies and harmonise health data for seamless travel. But the future looks bright, and the next decade is there for the taking.

“We look forward to our 22nd Global Summit later this year in Riyadh, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to mark the next chapter in the sector’s ongoing recovery.”

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Board Member of the Saudi Tourism Authority, said “We are excited to welcome the world to experience the excitement and the energy of Saudi. We promise you that the next summit will be fresh, inspiring, and rewarding.”

Under the theme of ‘Rediscovering Travel’, tourism ministers and Travel & Tourism leaders from around the world reinforced their determination towards greater cooperation and alignment between the public and private sectors.

At WTTC’s Global Leaders Dialogue session they explored how the sector will continue to adapt to COVID-19 and emerge resiliently from the pandemic.

WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Report also revealed the Travel & Tourism sector was expected to create nearly 126 million new jobs within the next decade and Travel & Tourism’s contribution to GDP could reach pre-pandemic levels by 2023.

WTTC’s major ‘Hotel Sustainability Basics’ sustainability initiative was launched at its Global Summit, providing a starting point to drive sustainability throughout the hospitality sector to power the momentum toward responsible Travel & Tourism.

The global body also launched its new cyber resilience report, ‘Codes to resilience’, with Microsoft, for the global Travel & Tourism sector, which outlined pillars to strengthen cyber security for businesses around the world.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on Saudi Arabia, visit TourismSaudiArabia.com

British adventurer Bear Grylls was the conference keynote, alongside other major speakers, including American film producer Lawrence Bender, Singapore-born American novelist and writer of satirical novels Kevin Kwan and Indonesian/Dutch environmental activist Melati Wijsen.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC Announces New Dates for 2022 Global Summit in Manila

 500 297 wttc2
By:

WTTC Announces New Dates for 2022 Global Summit in Manila - TRAVELINDEXManila, Philippines, January 25, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), has announced that its highly anticipated 21st Global Summit will now take place in Manila, Philippines, from 20-22 April 2022 – just a month from its original March date.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said: “As countries around the world begin to unlock the door to travel, we have taken the decision to reschedule our Global Summit by just a few short weeks. This will enable more international participants to join us in Manila and help guide and lead the sector as we head towards economic recovery.

“Our Global Summit is the most influential Travel & Tourism event in the calendar. We are looking forward seeing our Members, industry leaders and key government representatives gather in Manila in April to continue our efforts in safely restoring international travel.”

Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Secretary of the Philippines Department of Tourism said, “The WTTC Global Summit will be a significant opportunity for us to showcase the preparations that we have put in place for our eventual reopening to international visitors.

“Tourism has always provided us with endless opportunities. The reopening of our destinations and borders amid the pandemic is crucial to sustaining the livelihood of the millions who depend on travel and tourism. We are looking forward to being your gracious host in Manila as we navigate the next normal in the travel industry.”

The Summit will be hosted in Metro Manila in-person, with a global audience joining virtually.

Further information such as key speakers will be announced shortly.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO and ADB Launch Report on Big Data and Tourism Recovery

 500 284 wttc2
By:
UNWTO and ADB Launch Report on Big Data and Tourism Recovery

Madrid, Spain, December 24, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and the Asian Development Bank have launched a joint report on the use of big data for better tourism planning and management. The report features examples from across the Asia and the Pacific region while also showcasing the main trends in the use of big data in tourism at the forefront of technology and innovation. The report also makes clear the the role that big data can play in recovery and the measurement of the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of tourism.

Data to empower decision makers

Tourism suffered the greatest crisis on record in 2020. International arrivals plunged by 73% in 2020. This is likely to followed by a 70% and 75% fall on 2019 levels for 2021. As the sector looks to  recover, data and market intelligence are critical to  empower destinations, businesses, and tourism workers to be better prepared in a rapidly changing landscape. The COVID-19 pandemic has also accelerated the shift toward digitalization and so further highlighted the need for relevant and reliable data and intelligence to manage tourism.

The joint UNWTO and ADB report will assist both governments and the private sector as they look to complement official statistics with big data so as to better understand changes in consumer behavior and to enhance recovery with targeted products, segments, and source markets. Big data will also be key to supporting seamless travel through the implementation of safety protocols, biosecurity technologies, and digital health certificates to enable the safe reopening of borders.

The report further addresses some of the key challenges standing in the way of fully realizing the potential of big data and digitalization for better tourism policy. These include ongoing concerns over privacy, skills gaps, data reliability, inadequate governance and infrastructure, the digital divide, accessibility barriers. These challenges make clear the need for comprehensive agenda to pave the way for the effective use of big data to assist tourism recovery and its transformation toward a greener, more resilient sector. Together, UNWTO and ADB will work to ensure tourism policies across the region are aimed at establishing measurement, monitoring, and management systems and frameworks, thereby ensuring harmonized, comparable, and reliable data and indicators.

First published at TravelCommunication.net – Global Travel News

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Nomadhood Celebrates Digital Nomads and the Future of Work and Travel

 500 298 wttc2
By:

Nomadhood Celebrates Digital Nomads and the Future of Work and Travel - VISITPHILIPPINES.org - TRAVELINDEXManila, Philippines, October 15, 2021 / TAVELINDEX / COVID-19, if anything, teaches many to take a few steps back. Declutter, live simply, work moderately, go local, and appreciate people and the planet.

Imagine… with very few things, your laptop, and a backpack, you can work from anywhere? It’s now more than possible to support local tourism, while spending less, and wasting less!

Maybe the “digital nomad” life is for you, if you want to work from anywhere… at cafes, beaches, or hotel rooms – name it! While digital nomads have existed since the rise of Zoom, GoToMeeting and other conferencing platforms – they now represent professional freedom.

In the Philippines, Nomadhood.co is the latest community not only for expats, or domestic tourists, but especially for these hardworking travelers. The new website will soon offer online and offline spaces to find safe, comfortable, efficient, and even sustainable working conditions around the country.

To launch Nomadhood.co, in partnership with AsiaTVOfficial, Metro Channel and Metro.Style, the Philippines’ very first hybrid DIGITAL NOMAD FESTIVAL is slated on 23 October 2021, Saturday, at 1 PM GMT+8.

1) Tune-in via YouTube @AsiaTVOfficial : Interactive dialogue between the Tourism Promotions Board and Junior Tourism and Hospitality Management Association, with international guest speakers, games and breakouts games with Pinoy digital nomad influencers

2) Visit Offline at partner destinations: Get a FREE/ discounted welcome drink and Nomadhood merchandise, at any of the 3:
– Sinag Hostel – Siargao
3167 Brgy. Catangnan, Siargao Island
– Marina de Bay
Purok Sandiwa Barangay Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa, Palawan Island Iconik Travels
– UP Town Center
SDG Builders Group-Garden Tower Hub

Register at www.Nomadhood.co for FREE tickets, and get a chance to even WIN a free 1-MONTH stay in Siargao for digital nomads!!!

Everybody dreams to move from congested urban areas, back to nature, to walk freely and breathe fresh air. But with the hassle of fluctuating quarantine protocols, it only makes sense with fast internet and protocol-compliant coworking spaces.

By year two of lockdowns, businesses continue to reimagine the New Normal. According to the recently concluded Tech in Asia Conference: “There’s no doubt that if businesses and organizations don’t digitalize, they’re going to get left behind.”

The pandemic comes with the creative responsibility, too, of rethinking plastic waste, growing organic food, protecting biodiversity and promoting clean energy, among best practices by development projects of the SDG Builders Group. Everybody is called to chime in. Leaving nobody behind is at the fingertips of the tourism and hospitality sector, and with internet providers expanding access and governments easing public health concerns, we can begin to reimagine what was once unimaginable : The Future of Work and Travel.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

  • 1
  • 2