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Rosewood Hotels Appoints Victor Clavell Senior VP of Operations

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Rosewood Hotels Appoints Victor Clavell Senior VP of Operations - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXHong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, July 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Rosewood Hotel Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Victor Clavell as Senior Vice President of Operations, EMEAC. This addition to Rosewood’s executive team demonstrates the group’s continued global growth and thoughtful expansion.

For this newly created role, Victor will be responsible for driving operational success, executing profitability strategies, and developing talent for the group’s properties across the EMEAC region, encompassing Europe, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. His appointment comes at an exciting and important moment for Rosewood Hotel Group, as the brand prepares for the opening of Rosewood Vienna and the addition of other high-profile projects to the property pipeline.

Victor has demonstrated a strong track record of building and sustaining cohesive, top-performing teams and brings with him 30 years of experience within the field of luxury hospitality. Prior to joining Rosewood, he most recently served as Chief Operating Officer at AMAALA, the ultra-luxury development project owned by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia. He was previously with Marriott International for an impressive 28 years, beginning in managerial roles for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and working his way up to Vice President of the brand’s luxury portfolio in Asia-Pacific. He graduated from the University of Barcelona with a degree in business administration and management and received supplementary degrees and certifications from the University of Surrey and Harvard Business School in hotel management and executive education, respectively.

“Rosewood is delighted to have Victor join us in leading our ever-growing presence in the European, Middle Eastern, and Caribbean markets,” says Sonia Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. “Victor shares many of our most inherent values here at Rosewood, as he also strives for excellence and understands the importance of internal growth and teamwork. We are confident that under Victor’s leadership we will continue to expand and build upon the great momentum the brand has seen, both in terms of the growth and evolution of our footprint as well as talent development.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The Standard to Open its Asia Flagship Hotel in Bangkok

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The Standard to Open its Asia Flagship Hotel in Bangkok - TOP25HOTELS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon is set to open on July 29 at iconic pixelated skyscraper King Power Mahanakhon in Chong Nonsi. The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon will be The Standard brand’s flagship hotel in Asia and the latest addition to the company’s growing global portfolio. The company today announced that the hotel will open its doors to the public on 29th July 2022.

• Discover Bangkok and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels at TOP25Hotels.com

The hotel is conveniently located in Bangkok’s central business district between the Sathorn and Silom corridors and is housed in the landmark King Power Mahanakhon Building, a 78-story mixed-use building that is one of the tallest in Thailand. It is also in close proximity to Bangkok’s Old Town with its wealth of cultural attractions and what has recently become the chosen enclave for the city’s dynamic creative community. The hotel will reflect the unmistakable energy of the Thai capital and infuse The Standard brand’s “anything but standard” ethos throughout the property.

It’s been a long time coming for the American boutique brand to finally make a grand opening for their Bangkok outpost after a few years of delays. Ahead of its debut later this month, the hotel already unveiled elevated Mexican eatery Ojo Bangkok, the first out of six dining and drinking outlets, on the 76th floor of the building. In addition to the highest restaurant that they now claim to their portfolio, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon will also impress lifestyle connoisseurs with a total of 155 stylish guestrooms, Hong Kong-born Cantonese restaurant Mott 32, and a line-up of fun activities to welcome guests to explore the hotel in the heart of the city.

With 155-rooms, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon will become the brand’s flagship property in Asia. The hotel is designed by Spanish artist / designer Jaime Hayon in collaboration with The Standard’s award-winning in-house design team. The vibrant colors, fluid shapes, evolving art installations and lush greenery that flows seamlessly inside and out mark a sharp aesthetic departure from other luxury hotels in the city.

In addition to thoughtfully appointed guest rooms and suites, the hotel will feature an outdoor terrace pool (with the vibrant pool scene for which The Standard is known), the most advanced gym in Bangkok offering memberships to the local community and meeting / event rooms. As with all Standard hotels, there will be a dynamic array of restaurant, lounge, bar and nightlife offerings including the first international outpost of the renown Standard Grill and Thailand’s first outpost of the acclaimed Mott 32. In addition to the restaurants themselves, The Parlor will be a constant hub of music and activity offering snacks and cocktails while the fantasy filled tea room will offer treats found nowhere else in Bangkok. The rooftop will house Ojo, a Mexican inspired restaurant directed by one of the finest young chefs in Mexico. Visitors will also have access to sweeping views of the city from the highest al fresco sky beach in Bangkok. On the ground floor, the shop will carry a highly curated collection of local and foreign fashion, travel and home goods as well as one of a kind collaborations. All of it will live up to The Standard’s promise to be anything but.

• Discover Bangkok and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels at TOP25Hotels.com

This breath-taking new addition to The Standard’s portfolio will sit proudly alongside the brand’s award-winning US and European flagships, The Standard, High Line, and The Standard, London and in perfect counterpoint to The Standard’s waterside retreats in Miami, the Maldives, and Hua Hin, and it’s forthcoming Standard hotel in Ibiza, which is also set to open this Spring.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Peace and Solidarity Celebrated at Global Youth Tourism Summit

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Peace and Solidarity Celebrated at Global Youth Tourism Summit - TRAVELINDEX - UNWTOSorrento, Italy, July 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The first Global Youth Tourism Summit concluded by showcasing the power of tourism for youth empowerment, international solidarity and peace.

Drawing the landmark event to a close, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili joined UNWTO Director for Europe, Alessandra Priante, in thanking the 130 young delegates for their active participation. Valeria Mazza, UNWTO Ambassador for Responsible Tourism and the ‘godmother of GYTS’, also urged the participants, who came from 57 countries, to “follow their own paths in life” and to serve as advocates for tourism themselves as they return to their home communities.

Following this the Ukrainian National Folk Ensemble “Veryovka”, directed by maestro Carlo Ponti Jr, performed for an audience of high-level guests including the Ambassador of Ukraine to Italy, Mr Yaroslav Melnyk, the UN’s envoy for youth, Jayathma Wickramanayake, UNWTO Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism, Didier Drogba, Minister of Tourism of the Maldives, Abdulla Mausoom, and founder of the Small World Foundation, Ms Salam Hamzeh Ghaith. Participating through special messages to the young protagonists were Giorgio Armani – himself a UNWTO Special Ambassador for Responsible Tourism – and Sophia Loren, whose son, Carlo Ponti, led the musical celebrations.

Finally, in an act of solidarity, the night ended with presentations to organizations which are performing goodwill and charitable work, namely the Los Angeles Virtuosi, the MSC Foundation, Didier Drogba Foundation, Pokrova Association, and finally the UEFA Foundation.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hilton Maldives Amingiri Anticipated Debut in the Maldives

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Hilton Maldives Amingiri Anticipated Debut in the Maldives - TRAVELINDEX - WORLD BEST LUXURY HOTELS at TOP25HOTELS.comNorth Malé Atoll, Maldives, July 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa arrives in the archipelago with a 109 all-pool villa resort, delivering an exceptional stay for a new era of travelers. Global hospitality company Hilton announced the opening of Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort and Spa, marking the expansion of Hilton’s award-winning flagship brand into the Maldives. The all-villa resort features an array of thoughtful amenities which are new to the archipelago, setting a new benchmark in hospitality that will captivate the next generation of travelers.

• Discover the Maldives and World’s Best Luxury Hotels at TOP25Hotels.com

Hilton Maldives Amingiri is the fourth resort under the company’s portfolio of brands in the country, complementing Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, bolstering Hilton’s ability to take care of different travelers and their unique needs in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. The hotel is owned by Amingiri Holdings Pvt Ltd and managed by Hilton.

The hotel’s signature villa is the six-bedroom Amingiri Residence, the ideal escape for larger groups of travellers looking for privacy. Set apart on a landscaped cove, the residence will welcome guests with its own arrival pier and a dedicated sundeck with uninterrupted 360-degree views of the Maldivian horizon when it launches in November 2022.

Home to six distinctive dining concepts, Hilton Maldives Amingiri culinary offering includes Origin, a dining experience that celebrates sustainable seafood sourcing, all-day dining restaurant Habitat and rustic beach restaurant Beach Shack. Additional concepts include Sip Tea Lounge; Eden, an adults-only overwater bar and Aura, a poolside bar featuring a cocktail lab dedicated to the art of mixology.

Nestled in Amingiri Island in the North Malé Atoll, Hilton Maldives Amingiri is directly accessible from Velana International Airport via a scenic 20-minute premium speedboat ride. The resort features 109 expansive beach and overwater villas, each offering a private pool and enticing views of the surrounding turquoise lagoon. Embodying a harmony of Maldivian accents and contemporary touches, the villas invite an abundance of natural light through its floor-to-ceiling windows, enhancing a refreshing colour palette that mirrors the warm hues of the sea and sky.

Designed to immerse guests in nature’s wonders, the overwater pool villas are outfitted with stairs to lead directly to the island’s lagoon, and a hammock by the pool to enjoy the melody of waves; while beach villas feature direct access to sparkling white sand, a deck swing and a gazebo on the shore. All villas boast generously proportioned bathrooms with ocean-facing bathtubs, as well as indoor and outdoor rain showers that create a sense of relaxation.

• Discover the Maldives and World’s Best Luxury Hotels at TOP25Hotels.com

Owned by Amingiri Holdings Pvt Ltd and managed by Hilton, the resort features 109 beach and overwater villas, each offering a private pool and views of the surrounding lagoon. The villas invite an abundance of natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows and have been designed to immerse guests in nature. All villas feature generously proportioned bathrooms with ocean-facing bathtubs, as well as indoor and outdoor rain showers.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

A Zambian Dining Experience at Avani Victoria Falls

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A Zambian Dining Experience at Avani Victoria Falls - TOURISMAFRICA.org - TRAVELINDEXLivingstone, Zambia, July 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Guests at Avani Victoria Falls Resort can immerse themselves in a truly Zambian dining tradition during a boma dinner at the resort’s African restaurant, Mukuni Boma. Sit under the stars, lounge fireside with a Zambian feast, enjoy live bands, traditional dancing and ground yourself to the beautiful Zambian rituals on the banks of the majestic Zambezi River.

Dining under glow

The setting of the boma dinner depicts a Zambian village where guests sit under the stars and lounge fireside for an authentic boma meal, which is a traditional, open-air African dinner. When walking into the Mukuni Boma, guests are greeted by the tastes, sights, sounds and smells of Africa before being seated and invited to taste the local brew. A four-course menu consisting of Pan African food and game meat on barbeque is then served. An indigenous Zambian dish sure to delight guests is Chikanda, a snack prepared with a tuber of chikanda orchids. The small-sized tubers are dried and pounded, and then combined with a thick mixture of peanuts and dry chili peppers. Chikanda is often referred to as African polony, because of its meat-like consistency. Ifisashi is another popular Zambian meal made with peanuts, tomatoes, onions, and greens such as pumpkin leaves, sweet potato leaves, spinach and collard greens. The ingredients are cooked until the peanut sauce achieves a desired, thick consistency.

The real fun begins after dinner as guests are treated to an interactive traditional African drum show and performances. Traditional singers, djembe drum performers and expert Amakhezi traditional dancers spark the night with vibrant and energetic songs and dance. The engaging and welcoming atmosphere means guests can fully take part in the evening’s festivities by joining the dance and beating the drums to create an unforgettable experience.

Beauty close to the edge

Avani Victoria Falls Resort is situated in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and offers unmatched encounters with the majestic and spectacular Victoria Falls and Zambia’s amazing wildlife. With complimentary and unlimited access to Victoria Falls, guests at the resort can witness one of nature’s greatest treasures throughout their stay. Columns of spray can be seen from miles away and a selection of clearly marked pathways take visitors to different sections of the falls, including vantage points where views of the Eastern Cataract and the Main Falls as well as the Boiling Pot where the river heads down the Batoka Gorge are merely several metres away.

Adventures of a lifetime

The resort’s strategic location and eclectic environment mean the possibilities of recreational activities are endless. Guests can lift their spirit with a scenic adventure on one of the resort’s helicopters tours or microlight flights and marvel at the incredible power of the falls from a different perspective. The exquisite tranquility of the river and the exhilarating thrill of authentic Africa can be experienced by canoeing through the Zambezi River. Rare sights of birds and river wildlife can be spotted as visitors raft down the Zambezi and explore quiet channels. A visit to the historic Livingstone Island provides a one-of-a-kind swim at what feels like the edge of the world in the Devil’s Pool. Panoramic horseback trails take novice and experienced riders along the striking African Bushveld with the exciting possibility of spotting wildlife.

About Avani Hotels & Resorts
Launched in 2011, Avani Hotels is part of the global hospitality group Minor Hotels (BKK: MINT) and was designed for the millennial-minded traveller whose priorities are style, value and comfort. Avani is an upbeat and contemporary hotel concept that delivers the perfect balance, with a focus on good sleep, designed social spaces, locally inspired sustenance and friendly service.

Avani welcomes guests to over 30 properties in Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Australia, New Zealand, Seychelles, Mozambique, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Zambia, the United Arab Emirates and Portugal, with a rapidly growing pipeline across Asia, the Indian Ocean and the Middle East.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Deepak Ohri, William Heinecke Named in 100 Most Powerful People in Global Hospitality

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Deepak Ohri, William Heinecke Named in 100 Most Powerful People in Global Hospitality - TOP25INFLUENCERS.com - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, July 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to report that two leading tourism figures from Thailand have been included in the International Hospitality Institute’s list of the ‘100 Most Powerful People in Global Hospitality 2022’. The 2022 list by the US-based International Hospitality Institute recognises leading “change makers and influencers” around the world.

They are Mr. Deepak Ohri, Founder and CEO of lebua Hotels & Resorts, and Mr. William Heinecke, Chairman of Minor International.

In compiling the list, the International Hospitality Institute (IHI) is recognising these “change makers and influencers for their work in promoting the global hospitality industry”.

Well-known worldwide as an award-winning entrepreneur who has helped transform the luxury hospitality landscape in Asia, Mr. Ohri has spearheaded the growth of Bangkok-based lebua Hotels & Resorts with his concept of ‘experiential luxury’. In his unique approach to luxury and hospitality, he believes the focus should be on creating lasting emotional experiences for guests.

Mr. Heinecke has long been a leading personality in Asian hospitality. Today, Bangkok-based Minor International (MINT) is one of the largest hospitality and leisure companies in the Asia-Pacific with over 520 hotels and resorts, 2,410 restaurants, and 339 retail trading points of sale.

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, the IHI is a global advocacy, training, and standards organisation for the hospitality industry. It has offices in various countries and is committed to fostering excellence in the industry worldwide.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Storrington PR Appointed by Leading Namibia Safari Group

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Storrington PR Appointed by Leading Namibia Safari Group - TOURISMAFRICA.org - TRAVELINDEXWindhoek, Namibia, July 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Award-winning Ultimate Safaris is a Namibian Conservation Travel Company, dedicated to the protection and preservation of one of the most pristine and delicate wilderness areas on earth, has appointed established luxury travel and lifestyle agency Storrington PR to handle its UK public relations.

Considered one of the leading authorities on travel in Namibia, Ultimate Safaris boasts one of the most experienced, creative, and respected teams of experts in the industry. Since its founding in 2008, it has pioneered new ways to experience the awe-inspiring natural world of Namibia through conservation initiatives, seamless personal service, exceptional leadership, and an unwavering commitment to local communities.

Ultimate Safaris works with communities through its Conservation Travel Foundation to ensure that the future of the environment lies in the hands of the people living there. Their involvement is a critical element to the operation of Ultimate Safaris, fuelling a passion for the development of responsible and sustainable tourism, not just locally but in wider forums on the national level.

Tristan Cowley, Managing Director of Ultimate Safaris commented: “I am delighted to partner with Storrington PR to communicate our unique new approach to luxury safari experiences. Our focus is on redefining luxury to capture the essence of what a Namibian safari should be, as we continue to realise our vision of environmental sustainability, community development, and conservation.”

“We believe privacy, exclusivity, a focus on the quality of experience, plus total flexibility, are all possible while being perfectly comfortable in a captivating natural environment. Our guests are looked after by extraordinary people whose only desire is to ensure that each moment spent with us is as perfect as possible.”

“In our camps, guests fill their days with thrilling encounters, their nights with long-lasting and magical moments.”

The camps operated by Ultimate Safaris are designed to offer a true “back to nature” experience as today’s travellers are keen to experience the original safari concept of touching, smelling, and feeling the wild, with their feet occasionally skimming through the African dust. This ultimate connection with the earth, culture, and wildlife in a uniquely close way offers a truly exclusive connection, as well as being very different from everyday life.

Some of the camps are semi-permanent and seasonal, but the focus remains fixed on complete comfort. More adventurous guests can choose to go to sleep hearing only the naked sounds of the desert silence and waking up to a chorus announcing the start of a new day. This intimacy can only be achieved in the wildest, remote, and private places, and by keeping guests well away from the beaten path. Warm hospitality is guaranteed whatever the camp designation – whether Comfort, Classic, or Premium.

Travellers seeking complete privacy also have the option of Ultimate Safaris’ Private Retreats, among the most extraordinary in Africa in terms of sustainability, quality, design, and décor while remaining focused on reinvesting revenues into conservation.

Guests are immersed in enchanting Namibian landscapes while enjoying the expert attention of handpicked naturalist guides and award-winning gourmet chefs. Discerning, sophisticated, and understated management is complemented by private butlers who ensure a level of care and an absolute concentration on personal attention which serves as a benchmark of hospitality at iconic and exclusive private retreats in Namibia.

Li Boatwright, Founder and CEO of Storrington PR commented: “We are thrilled to be working with Ultimate Safaris to deliver their concept of harmonious, productive, and life-enriching luxury safari experiences to our UK audience.”

“Modern travellers now value the commitment to conservation, to wildlife, a sustainable environment, and local communities as relevant to their luxury travel experience. Nowhere is this focus more treasured than in the pristine wilderness of Namibia. Luxury travel with a light footprint and a feeling of giving something back is more than desirable, it can be seen today as an essential element of the whole journey.”

Storrington PR is a full-service public relations agency, catering exclusively to the luxury travel and hospitality sector. Comprising an exceptionally talented team, Storrington PR creates innovative and bespoke campaigns that deliver outstanding results for its clients across all media platforms.

About Ultimate Safaris
Founded in 2008, Ultimate Safaris is a multi-award-winning specialist in organising and operating well-orchestrated, privately guided, naturalist safaris for individuals as well as for small and intimate groups and boasts one of the most experienced, creative, and respected ‘tribes’ in the Namibian safari industry.

Their driving force is a carefully selected tribe of experts who are passionate about all aspects of Namibia and who understand the importance of seamless guest services. Ultimate Safaris employs the best naturalist guides and Journeysmiths, all of whom live and work in Namibia; and offers the finest portfolio of lodges, hotels, and camps (including our own); and operates a state-of-the-art fleet of specialized safari vehicles, ensuring an unequalled level of personal attention whilst maintaining the highest standards when planning and organizing Namibian safaris.

Investing heavily in continuous exploration of new safari possibilities makes Ultimate Safaris one of the most progressive and forward-looking safari companies in the country. Ultimate Safaris has also been involved in the development of responsible and sustainable tourism in a wider forum, and our principals have held a variety of executive decision-making positions concerning tourism on a national level.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cross Hotels Extends its Reach to Lombok

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Cross Hotels Extends its Reach to Lombok - HOTELWORLDS.com - TRAVELINDEXLombok, Indonesia, July 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Situated in the breathtaking Indonesian archipelago, the island of Lombok is celebrated for the raw beauty of its pristine nature that tempts tourists from around the world. To cater to an influx of experience-seeking travellers, Cross Hotels & Resorts has signed a hotel management agreement (HMA) with PT. Origin Resorts Lombok that welcomes Away Lombok Mandalika and Amber Lombok Beach by Cross Collection to its growing portfolio.

Hot on the heels of a twin-hotel management agreement in the world-class tourist destination of Bali in April 2022, the latest announcement increases the number of Cross branded boutique properties in Indonesia to six. These include Away Bali Legian Camakila, Cross Bali Breakers, Tanadewa Resort and Spa Ubud by Cross Collection and Tanadewa Villas and Spa Nusa Dua by Cross Collection.

A true tropical paradise, Away Lombok Mandalika entices visitors with exceptional accommodation that include deluxe garden and pool suites decorated with natural textures and local crafts. Situated close to the main town of Kuta, Away Lombok Mandalika’s ethos to its guests is ‘Escape Everyday Life’ and it is here you can fulfill your bucket list with excellent surfing, stunning sunsets and the chance to party late into the night.

“We are honoured to partner with PT. Origin Resorts Lombok and I am excited about the continued expansion of our eco-friendly footprint on the beautiful island of Lombok. With these two magnificent resorts joining the Cross family, I am confident our strong international network will help bring a new genre of holidaymaker to Lombok. Cross Hotels & Resorts is committed to the focused expansion of our business in Indonesia. Our dedication and flexible execution are key as we continue to transform hospitality for all,” said Harry Thaliwal, CEO of Cross Hotels & Resorts.

Meanwhile, Amber Lombok Beach by Cross Collection is a quintessential beachside retreat set along the turquoise shores of south Lombok and comprises superior, poolside and oceanfront suites as well as a stunning honeymoon suite and multi-bedroom pool and beachside villas. Each guest room is decorated in soft earth tones that are complemented by traditional wall art and accessories. Renowned for its exquisite gastronomy, creative cocktails, and landscaped gardens, the Instagrammable resort encourages guests to be part of its earth-friendly initiatives that protect nature through a minimal ecological footprint approach.

Theo Dandine, Founder of PT. Origin Resorts Lombok, was equally thrilled with the latest announcement, saying, “We have complete trust and confidence in Cross Hotels & Resorts. It is an exceptional brand that provides a global network and is backed by Flight Centre Travel Group. We firmly believe the brand will set a new benchmark for service quality and excellence in the local hospitality industry. This agreement will ultimately raise the profile of Lombok as an international destination, while at the same time benefitting the wider community.”

Cross Hotels & Resorts current portfolio includes 26 hotels under five distinct brands – Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Lumen and Cross Collection – across Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and Japan.

About Cross Hotels & Resorts
Cross Hotels & Resorts is an international hotel management company wholly owned by the ASX listed Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG). FCTG is one of the world’s largest and progressive travel companies, incorporating diverse worldwide distribution, in destination travel experiences such as transport and touring as well as hotel management solutions. Cross Hotels & Resorts also delivers owner services all the way from the very early sourcing and planning stages of a development, through technical services during build, to pre-opening services and finally professional ongoing hotel management.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Saudi Arabia Tourism with Fastest Growth in Middle East over Next Decade

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Saudi Arabia Tourism with Fastest Growth in Middle East over Next Decade - TRAVELINDEXRiyadh, Saudi Arabia, July 4, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Travel and Tourism Council has revealed the Travel & Tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is expected to grow at an average of 11% annually over the next decade, making it the fastest growing Travel & Tourism in the Middle East.

• Discover Saudi Arabia with the comprehensive travel guide on Saudi Arabia, visit TourismSaudiArabia.com

According to the forecast from WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Report (EIR), this annual growth, more than six times the 1.8% growth rate of the country’s overall economy, will bolster the economic recovery of the Kingdom.

By 2032, the Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP could reach nearly SAR 635 billion, representing 17.1% of the total economy.

The forecast also reveals Travel & Tourism employment could double over the next 10 years, creating more than 1.4 million jobs, to reach almost three million employed within the sector by 2032.

The projections for both employment and the sector’s contribution to the Kingdom’s economy, surpass the ambitious goals set out by the government’s Vision 2030 strategic framework.

By 2023, following two years of heartache, Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to the national economy could surpass pre-pandemic levels, when it is projected to rise 2% above 2019 levels, to reach nearly SAR 297 billion.

Employment in the sector could also exceed 2019 levels by 14.1%, creating more than 223,000 additional jobs, representing nearly more than 1.8 million by the end of next year.

By the end of this year, the sector’s contribution to GDP is expected to grow 15.2% to nearly SAR 223 billion, amounting to 7.2% of the total economic GDP, while employment in the sector is set to grow by 16.1% to reach more than 1.5 million jobs.

According to the global tourism body, the Kingdom, due to host WTTC’s 22nd Global Summit in Riyadh from 28 November to 1 December this year, is witnessing a faster than average recovery following the government’s total commitment to the Travel & Tourism sector, ensuring it remained at the forefront of the global agenda.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Throughout these difficult times for our sector, the Saudi Arabia government has recognised the importance of Travel & Tourism and has led the world in its recovery. Through his leadership, Travel & Tourism will become a driving force of the Saudi Arabian economy and will surpass the goals set out in its Vision 2030 blueprint.

“I would like to commend Ahmed Al Khateeb, who has shown strong leadership during this crisis which has boosted the sector’s growth with unprecedented investments and new approaches to tourism.

“I am delighted the Kingdom is hosting our 22nd Global Summit, where we will be able to continue our efforts of showcasing the importance of the Travel & Tourism sector and look ahead to the future of travel.”

Before the pandemic, Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism total contribution to GDP was 9.7% (SAR 291.6 billion) in 2019, falling to just 6.6% (SAR 190.6 billion) in 2020, representing a staggering 34.6% loss.

• Discover Saudi Arabia with the comprehensive travel guide on Saudi Arabia, visit TourismSaudiArabia.com

The sector also supported nearly 1.6 million jobs, before an almost complete halt to international travel which resulted in a loss of 350,000 (22.2%), to reach just over 1.2 million in 2020.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Didier Drogba Connects Sport and Tourism in Youth Summit Masterclass

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Didier Drogba Connects Sport and Tourism in Youth Summit Masterclass - TRAVELINDEXSorrento, Italy, July 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO Ambassador of Responsible Tourism and footballing legend Didier Drogba helped bring the first Global Youth Tourism Summit to an inspiring close with a special masterclass for more than 120 young delegates.

The masterclass was the culmination of three days’ worth of intense and interactive discussions where leading figures from across the fields of gastronomy, sport, and business, shared their visions for sustainable tourism and personal testimonies leading up to their own success.

Addressing young delegates from 57 countries, the Ivorian made clear the links between tourism and sports, both sectors with the power to bring hope and opportunity for all, including across Africa. Mr Drogba engaged in an honest and open dialogue covering many topics ranging from his personal journey to fame, the importance of giving back through his own philanthropic Foundation, and the vital role of tourism as a driver of mutual respect, sustainability, and for bringing together sports fans from all over the world.

Like UNWTO, Drogba is empowering global youth and so helping to build a more sustainable and resilient future for us all

“In my career, I was lucky enough to travel widely: from Lagos, to Shanghai, London, and Sarajevo, just to mention a few, and meeting people from different traditions was one of the things that brought me the most joy,” he said.

Working towards a common goal

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili added: “As a UNWTO Ambassador, Didier Drogba brings the drive and energy he showed on the football pitch to promoting the power of tourism for growth and development. Like UNWTO, Drogba is empowering global youth and so helping to build a more sustainable and resilient future for us all.”

The inaugural Global Youth Tourism Summit was organized by UNWTO in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism of Italy and the Italian National Tourism Agency (ENIT). It was open to young people aged 12 to 18, giving them a unique platform to engage with tourism leaders from the public and private sectors and to develop the skills and knowledge they will need to become leaders themselves.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News