Category: Latest Travel News

Miyazaki, Kyushu, Japan, March 23, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The annual Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) has returned after a three-year Covid hiatus, bringing with it confidence and optimism from across the Asia Pacific region. AGTC 2023 took place in the Japanese prefecture of Miyazaki on the southernmost main island of Kyushu over six days in March, during which cherry blossoms began to bloom in the warm spring sunshine.

The 9th annual staging of the event, which is organised by IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators), attracted 320 delegates, among them 130 golf tour operators from 25 countries, all selling golf vacations either within or to golf destinations across Asia.

IAGTO Chief Executive Peter Walton said: “AGTC 2020 was scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur in March 2020 and had to be cancelled with only two months’ notice. Since then, the staging of AGTC in Miyazaki had to be postponed twice, in 2021 and 2022, until eventually taking place last week.

“The unexpectedly high turnout brought relief and excitement in equal measure from the participating delegates, who benefited from three days packed with appointments and functions, many of them meeting each other for the first time since 2019.

“One month ahead of hosting the agriculture session of the 49th G7 summit, Miyazaki launched itself onto the international golf tourism map by hosting AGTC and by showcasing seven of its 26 golf courses in the first three days of the event. There is a wealth of great golf courses within a 30-minute drive of Miyazaki City, which itself boasts a large and vibrant nightlife district full of iconic bars and restaurants.”

Walton added: “With its year-round, golf-friendly climate, Miyazaki is already well known to the domestic and Korean markets, but has now positioned itself as a truly international golf destination.

“With Japanese delegates representing one third of all AGTC supplier delegates this year, Japan now has a great opportunity to become a bucket-list golf destination for discerning golf travellers, and Miyazaki is one of the many regions within Japan that can benefit enormously from the country’s successful development as an accessible, desirable and memorable golf destination.”

Highlighting the success of the event, Walton said: “In Asia, where the recovery from the pandemic came later than in other parts of the world, it was so important for us to provide golf destinations and golf tourism suppliers the opportunity to engage with golf tour operators at this time. AGTC Miyazaki was undoubtedly the perfect springboard for what I believe will be the most important 12 months for the participants in recent golf tourism history.”

Shunji Kouno, Governor of Miyazaki Prefecture, addressed attending delegates and told them: “We are excited that these two days of business meetings have given many people from all over the world the opportunity to visit Miyazaki and Japan.”

He noted that the prefecture had focused on welcoming golfers from Japan and Asia in the past and had hosted the renowned Dunlop Phoenix Tournament for 50 years, inviting leading golfers including Tiger Woods, Brooks Koepka and Hideki Matsuyama. But he added: “We hope this convention will put Miyazaki on the map as a golf destination of choice for people around the world.”

Governor Kouno also told delegates that Miyazaki had the honour of hosting AGTC exactly one month before the G7 agriculture ministers’ meeting in the prefecture, and remarked that the IAGTO golf tourism convention should be called the G25 referencing the number of countries involved.

Peter Walton added: “AGTC 2023 will go down as one of the best and most influential golf tourism events of the past decade, primarily because of the perseverance, commitment and investment of partners including the host destination, Miyazaki Prefecture, the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) that has recognised sports and golf travel as one of the pillars of its national tourism strategy, the Japan Golf Tourism Association (JGTA) that will pick up the momentum of the work begun at AGTC, and Sega Sammy, the owners of the outstanding Phoenix Seagaia Resort where the convention took place.”

AGTC 2024 will take place from 12-14 March 2024, with the venue to be announced shortly.

About IAGTO
Established in 1997, IAGTO is the global trade organisation of the golf tourism industry, and has 2400 members in over 90 countries including almost 700 golf tour operator members in 61 countries, which control more than 90% of golf holiday packages sold worldwide and which collectively have annual sales of over €2.5 billion. IAGTO runs annual Asia, Europe and North America Golf Tourism Conventions, along with regular Destination Conventions. IAGTO established the International Golf Travel Writers Association in 2000, the year in which the first prestigious annual IAGTO Awards also took place.

Brisbane, Australia, March 22, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Sabre Corporation announced the successful implementation of its Revenue Optimizer and Dynamic Availability solutions at Virgin Australia. The airline is now using Sabre’s advanced technology tools to help it to quickly sense and respond to evolving market conditions with real-time data insights.

As travel recovery continues in Australia, Virgin Australia has added Sabre Revenue Management and Pricing capabilities to its technology arsenal, including:

– Dynamic Availability to help Virgin Australia quickly respond to changing market dynamics with recommendations for pricing and inventory availability based on real-time marketplace data.

– Revenue Optimizer to help Virgin Australia improve forecast accuracy and optimise demand-based pricing, with a real-time view of performance and network partner data.

“We’re operating in a very different world today than the landscape of just a few years ago,” said Dave Emerson, Chief Commercial Officer, Virgin Australia. “So, it was important to us to adopt a new approach to demand forecasting and inventory management. Using these tools enables us to intuitively analyse and respond to evolving market conditions.”

Virgin Australia carries millions of passengers each year to dozens of domestic and international destinations, including New Zealand, Indonesia and Fiji, and is using Sabre technology to help it optimise decision making while making its fares and offers available to travellers globally.

“We’re thrilled to have successfully implemented these solutions for Virgin Australia, so that they can move further into 2023 with advanced decision-making capabilities,” said Rakesh Narayanan, Vice President, Regional General Manager, Asia Pacific, Travel Solutions Airline Sales. “These tools enable Virgin Australia to make a sea-change towards enhanced airline retailing.”

About Virgin Australia
Founded in the Year 2000 by Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Australia is now one of the largest Australian airlines operating an extensive domestic network as well as short-haul international services, charter and cargo operations, and the award-winning loyalty program, Velocity Frequent Flyer. The Group employs more than 7,000 people and has been a competitor in the Australian aviation landscape for 22 years. Virgin Australia boasts more than 11 million Velocity members who can use their Points to redeem flights to over 500 destinations around the world through Virgin Australia and the airline’s extensive list of international partner carriers.

About Sabre Corporation
Sabre Corporation is a leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, serving a wide range of travel companies including airlines, hoteliers, travel agencies and other suppliers. The company provides retailing, distribution and fulfilment solutions that help its customers operate more efficiently, drive revenue and offer personalized traveller experiences. Through its leading travel marketplace, Sabre connects travel suppliers with buyers from around the globe. Sabre’s technology platform manages more than $260B worth of global travel spend annually. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world.

Berlin, Germany, March 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Germany leads the way in reducing absolute emissions in Travel & Tourism, the sector’s GDP has grown on average 1.5% annually while greenhouse gas emissions decreased by 1.1% each year. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Saudi-based Sustainable Tourism Global Center have unveiled groundbreaking new data detailing the climate footprint of the Travel & Tourism sector in Germany.

In one of the largest research projects of its kind, WTTC can for the first time ever, accurately report and track the impact the sector has on the environment.

According to this groundbreaking new data, Germany is one of just a few major countries where Travel & Tourism has continued to grow, whilst reducing its absolute emissions.

In 2019, the sector was responsible for 10.3% of total greenhouse gas emissions across Germany.

This dropped more than four percentage points, to reach 5.9% in 2020 and 5.8% in 2021, mainly due to the reduced activity in the sector during the pandemic period.

Between 2010 and 2019, Germany’s Travel & Tourism sector decoupled its greenhouse gas emissions from its growth.

During this period, greenhouse gas emissions decreased on average by 1.1% per year, whilst Travel & Tourism’s total contribution to Germany’s economy grew 1.5% on average annually.

The figures also show that the sector’s emissions intensity continues to decrease.
In 2010, for every €1 generated by Travel & Tourism in Germany, the sector emitted 0.55 kg of greenhouse gas emissions.

In 2019, when Travel & Tourism was at its peak, this figure dropped by 22% to 0.43 kg per €1 created, and continued to fall in the following years, to a low of 0.36 kg per €1 in 2021.

This significant decline illustrates the impact of changes implemented by the German government and business leaders to create a more sustainable sector.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Our data shows that Germany is one of the few Travel & Tourism powerhouses which is decreasing its absolute emissions whilst continuing to grow year-on-year.

“The Travel & Tourism sector has decoupled its economic growth from its greenhouse gas emissions and continues to reduce its emissions intensity, but we know there is still work to be done. To reach our goals and ambitions, we must make bigger and bolder steps to reduce our absolute emissions.

“We need government support in accelerating the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuels which will have a significant impact on our footprint, as well as bringing in more renewable energy to our national grids.”

Energy Usage

The global tourism body also provides insights on the sector’s energy usage and efficiency, and shows that between 2010 and 2019, the sector’s total energy usage increased by only 0.2% annually.

This demonstrates that while Travel & Tourism continued to grow, it also became more energy efficient.

Between 2019 and 2021, the sector has reduced its energy intensity by 18.3%, highlighting the strides made by Travel & Tourism to slash energy usage.

This comprehensive research covers 185 countries across all regions and will be updated each year with the latest figures.

This research was made possible thanks to the partnership between WTTC and the Saudi-based Sustainable Tourism Global Center. Under the Saudi green Initiative, more than 60 initiatives have been launched in the past year, representing more than $186BN USD of investment in the green economy.

Berlin, 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).

Singapore, Singapore, March 21, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Pullman Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Pullman Singapore Orchard, marking the brand’s debut in one of the world’s most iconic gateway cities. Located on Orchard Road, the famous retail district, this modern and stylish hotel will allow guests to balance business and leisure in this vibrant destination. As the ultimate playground for today’s new entrepreneurs, Pullman Singapore Orchard marries progressive, vibrant design with intuitive and seamless hospitality to inspire minds and energize bodies.

Surrounded by major retail malls, leading fashion labels and global brands, Pullman Singapore Orchard will put guests in the city’s commercial heart. Orchard and Somerset MRT stations are only moments away, and Changi International Airport can be conveniently reached in just 20 minutes.

“Singapore is a trendsetting city that has evolved from an Asian economic hub into a vibrant global tourism destination. This makes it the perfect setting for our Pullman brand, which has a history that dates back more than 150 years and now attracts a new generation of digital nomads, millennial globetrotters, and business professionals. Pullman Singapore Orchard will deliver bold and creative stays, surrounded by world-class dining and shopping venues,” said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer of Accor, Southeast Asia, Japan & South Korea.

Taking its cue from its metropolitan location, Pullman Singapore Orchard’s signature spaces are designed to celebrate the fashion powerhouses that surround it. On arrival, guests can enjoy a fully contactless check-in via the hotel’s mobile app and digital room keys. The 326 innovative, fashion-inspired rooms and suites come in nine configurations, ranging from the Classic Rooms to the Presidential Suite, and are fully automated so guests can customize every part of the ambiance, including the lighting and temperature. Smart TVs with screen casting provide endless entertainment options and guests can access all the hotel’s services via a dedicated app. In addition, a selection of Club Residence Rooms will offer access to the hotel’s Archive Club, a multi-purpose Executive Lounge with pockets for work, relaxation and social interaction. Families are welcomed with guaranteed inter-connecting rooms.

As the heartbeat of Pullman Singapore Orchard, level 4 of the hotel houses dining and social destinations. Eden Restaurant is proud to celebrate the diverse flavors of Asia with a modern twist. Set in a stunning, light-filled glasshouse, guests can dine in the backdrop of high-energy, live cooking stations. Also in the spotlight are well-crafted beverages that pay homage to Asian traditions with an exciting selection inspired by tropical destinations such as Bali, Borocay, and Phuket. Ideal for a coffee meeting or a post-work cocktail, the Atelier Lounge is a thoughtfully curated lifestyle space meticulously decorated with fashion-inspired artifacts. The first-of-its-kind in Orchard Road, the P.S.O. Beach Club offers guests the chance to relax and space to perform at their best, with ambient music, cozy cabanas, sun beds, a striking pool and a swim-up pool bar.

Named after iconic fashion destinations, Pullman Singapore Orchard’s “MEET/PLAY” spaces – New York, Paris and Shanghai – are designed to fuel creativity, encourage interaction and unlock new opportunities. Equipped with the latest technology, these dynamic spaces set the stage for a new generation of hybrid meetings, corporate events, team-building activities or social events such as evening cocktails or weddings.

When they are not working, shopping or exploring the city, guests can unleash their athletic energy at the fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool. In-Room Fitness Kit are also available.

One of the world’s most iconic gateway cities and a global centre of commerce, Singapore is a key market for Accor, which now operates 29 hotels and resorts in the Lion City. The debut of the Pullman brand will introduce a new era of individuality, exploration and expression to business and leisure travelers alike.

“For today’s new entrepreneurs, the lines between work and play are increasingly blurred. At Pullman Singapore Orchard, we have created the ultimate playground for this multi-hyphenate audience. Whether dining, drinking, working or sleeping, we’ve got all bases covered. We can’t wait to show Singapore what Pullman is about,” added Rob McIntyre, General Manager of Pullman Singapore Orchard.

About Pullman
Pullman Hotels & Resorts sets a new tempo in global travel and living, delivering an inspiring, energizing and enriching experience to new entrepreneurs. Pullman welcomes guests with the space they need to focus, work and play. Forward-thinking, hyper-connected and with a passion for art and fitness, Pullman retains the adventurous spirit and open-minded ambition that drove it to become a pioneering travel brand over 150 years ago. Today, Pullman features more than 140 properties in vibrant and cosmopolitan destinations around the world, including flagship properties such as Pullman Paris Bercy, Pullman Suzhou Zhonghui in Greater China and Pullman Maldives Maamutaa. Pullman 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.

Olhuveli, Kudahuvadhoo Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives, March 20,2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Niyama Private Islands, the only luxury resort in the Maldives with its own wave breaking onto the shore, has two exciting upcoming surf initiatives. 1991 World # 2 pro surfer & Wave-Ki founder, Brad Gerlach, will be in residence at the resort from March 16th to April 19th to offer coaching sessions of his original and proprietary teaching methodology – Wave-Ki. During Brad’s residency, the in-house surf guides will become accredited Wave-Ki instructors, as taught by Brad, and will then continue the service at Niyama.

Niyama is home to two islands – Play and Chill, which are connected by a bridge. Vodi wave is just off the shore of Play Island and is a powerful and sometimes hollow left hander. Off to the west and five minutes away by speedboat, Kasabu is a rippable and hollow right hander. Up to four other waves in the local vicinity are also available, with nine other spots available with trans-atoll adventures in the resort’s 2×350 HP speedboat – Sea Breeze. Surfing can be enjoyed year-round at Niyama with bigger surf from March to November and no crowds.

For those aspiring to surf, learning to surf at Niyama is available all year, with in-house surf guides offering lessons to guests. Begin in the flat-water lagoon to learn surf mechanics & safety procedures, before hitting the channel wave with the guide to catch your very own ride. Guides will instruct in the footfalls of the best, with Brad Gerlach offering expert guidance, which can continue at home with a 25% discount on an annual membership to Wave-Ki available exclusively for Niyama guests.

Brad Gerlach is a professional surfer who finished #2 in the world in 1991 after dominating the leader board for the majority of the year. Brad developed Wave-Ki, his proprietary surf instruction programme, which is unique in that its approach is entirely land based, with a martial art-like focus on slow, precise movements, creating kinaesthetic motor memory for improved surfing once one hits the waves. The programme course is online and offers recorded guided videos, live session videos, regular open forum Q&A sessions, plus the option for 1-1 sessions with Brad via online facetime. Brad uses Wave-Ki to coach current pro-surfers, such as Parker Coffin, and works with many other aspiring pros, as well as every day bros looking to improve.

Whilst at Niyama, Brad will offer private land-based Wave-Ki sessions, as well as public group sessions at PUMP studio, overlooking the lagoon. Also, Brad will offer both private and family in-water surf coaching to compliment Wave-Ki performed on land. Many packages will include an annual membership. Land based group classes begin at USD 96 net, with private Wave-Ki land-based classes beginning at USD 319 net per person/per 45 minutes, and private in-water surf coaching beginning at USD 447 net per person/per hour.

After a day’s surfing, guests can hang out with Brad and other surfers at the Surf Shack with its bright red food truck, bean bags to relax on, and a reggae music soundtrack. The perfect spot for sundowners, the Surf Shack serves rum cocktails and gourmet snack food, such as poached prawns, chorizo hotdogs, tacos, burritos and truffle fries with churros to wrap up.

If guests need any surf clothing items, they can purchase at two new locations at Niyama – the new Rip Curl Boutique overlooking the wave at Vodi, or the Rip Curl Tech shop alongside the dive centre. For holiday memories, Niyama offers Chill and Play branded retail items such as boardshorts, rash guards, caps, bucket hats, face zinc, and a Niyama Surf Coffee table book.

Niyama Private Islands offers a collection of 134 villas, suites and pavilions, many with their own private pool, dotting along the beaches of both islands and extending out over the lagoon. The laid-back resort offers an abundance of space and privacy and a multitude of experiences tailored to adventurous honeymooners, active couples and style-savvy families.

Niyama Private Islands is 40-minute shared seaplane flight from Male or a 30-minute domestic flight to Dhaalu Airport. Nightly rates start from USD 730 based on two sharing a Beach Villa with breakfast and dinner including taxes and fees. Surf photo packages with Junior Garcia, the resident Surf Photographer, start from around USD 249 per private hour, or USD 489 for a seven-day package; and trips on Sea Breeze with a guide start from USD 385 per person for a six-hour trip.

About Niyama Private Islands Maldives
Niyama Private Islands Maldives offers more than a luxury retreat in the Maldives. Going beyond conventional concepts of lavish accommodation, sumptuous cuisines, and personalised service, Niyama Private Islands Maldives presents every visitor with myriad opportunities to create their own exceptional island experience. With twin islands Play and Chill, Niyama Private Islands Maldives offers guests the true luxury of choice. The Chill island is true to its name, offering new depths of relaxation at the Drift Spa, entertainment under the stars at the outdoor cinema, fine dining experience offshore at Edge and so much more. While the Play Island provides delightful diversions for those looking for more active pursuits.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, March 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has launched a new Startup Competition to support women tourism tech entrepreneurs and innovators across the Middle East.

Announced at Biban 2023, Saudi Arabia’s largest SME conference, the Women in Tech Startup Competition: Middle East, will further advance UNWTO’s work to make tourism a pillar of women’s empowerment. The initiative gives innovators the chance to compete for enhanced capacity building and visibility. Finalists in each category will join the UNWTO Innovation Network, giving them access to the UNWTO Member States network, mentorship programs and to UNWTO scholarship opportunities.

Tourism startups are also leading the way in advancing women empowerment, in the Middle East and globally, and UNWTO is delighted to support the region’s best innovators and digital entrepreneurs

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, says: “Tourism startups have the power and agility to transform the sector in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. Tourism startups are also leading the way in advancing women empowerment, in the Middle East and globally, and UNWTO is delighted to support the region’s best innovators and digital entrepreneurs.”

Who can apply?

• Startups must be led, owned or managed by women residing in any of the following countries: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Libya and Yemen.
• Idea Stage, Early Stage or Series A startups with a minimum viable product or idea that is ready to be developed and funded.
• Have a full-time team, a tested pilot and business plan.
• Be scalable with potential for international growth.

Startups must also belong to at least one of the following categories:

• Social Impact: For startups that focus on technology in wellness, health, urban development, rural development, sustainability, and education with cross-cutting benefits with tourism.
•  Tourism and Travel Experience: Startups focusing on the food and beverage, transportation and accommodation, travel, and retail industries to participate. 
• Future Tech: Startups that leverage fintech, AI, AR/VR, cryptocurrency, Internet of Things, blockchain technology, digital twinning and the Metaverse.
• Events and Community: Startups focused on social and messaging platforms, e-sports and gaming platforms, community-based applications, events-related platforms, and education technology.

Applications close at the end of July 2023 and the winners will be announced at the Tourism Tech Adventure (TTA), to be held on World Tourism Day (27 September Riyadh, Saudi Arabia).

Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles, March 17, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Tribute Portfolio, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s growing collection of characterful, independent hotels, welcomes its latest addition in Europe, the Middle East and Africa with the opening of Iaïla, Seychelles, a Tribute Portfolio Resort. Marking the brand’s debut in the Seychelles, the resort offers an oasis perfect for island exploration and revitalisation set in the serenity of a natural botanical paradise. Located close to Anse Royal, the photo-ready white sandy beach on the Southeastern coast of Mahé, the Seychelles largest island, the resort is set to showcase the hidden gems of the island for travellers and locals who seek out independent experiences and crave a connection with the community when traveling.

“We are thrilled to be opening Iaïla, Seychelles, a Tribute Portfolio Resort and to introduce the brand to this vibrant, leisure destination,” said Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President, Premium & Select Brands, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International, “As the first Tribute Portfolio property in the Seychelles and further growing its footprint in EMEA, this resort advocates the brand’s passion for captivating design and sincere service, while offering unique experiences that connect guests to the spirit of the destination.”

Designed by MMAC Design, the resort has a harmoniously calming colour palette complemented by bold pops of green which pay homage to the beautiful tropical surroundings. With carefully curated interiors, guests will appreciate the intricate detailing throughout, including the lobby ceiling which has been carved to reflect the shapes of the many islands in the Seychelles. Each of the resort’s 76 bespoke guest rooms is decorated with nature-inspired aesthetics, featuring a mural of the Seychelles’ plant silhouette, hand woven macramé bed board, and room separator made with wood and rattan, the natural materials often used in the island’s traditional architecture. In addition, families or a collective of friends can choose from the resort’s eight boutique suites, including the Senior Suite with a private plunge pool and terrace overlooking the Indian Ocean and surrounding mountains.

The resort features no shortage of distinct amenities, including a water sports centre, outdoor swimming pool, 24/7 gym, spa, barbershop, and kids’ recreation area. Tailor-made for guests who want to be part of something and seek out experiences that draw them into a larger community, the resort’s expansive activity offerings draw on the Seychellois spirit to captivate minds. Guests can take part in thoughtfully curated village experiences including Creole cooking classes, traditional weaving demonstrations, and evenings dancing around the bonfire to the traditional and charming sounds of Moutya music. Guests looking to live like a local can join insiders on day trips to explore the village market, embark on a fishing trip, hike through the jungle, or take expeditions to neighbouring islands arranged by native experts. Additionally, guests can enjoy sunrise yoga, jogging along the resort’s tropical trails, jewellery making using foraged shells, or opt for water sports including paddle boarding, kayaking, and snorkelling at the famous uninhabited ‘Ile Souris’ coral island, which is frequented by an array of coral fish and sea turtles.

After a day of inspiring adventures, guests can relax at the Iaïla Spa with expert therapists who offer a full range of facial and body treatments, which include healing practices using only organic and handmade products made with local ingredients, such as coconut, vanilla, and cinnamon.

A foodies’ haven, the resort features five restaurants and bars, designed to capture the spirit of the community and attract guests and locals alike. Laroul offers an international array of cuisines and cultures with a distinctive Seychellois touch throughout the breakfast and dinner services. Signature dishes feature daily catches from the Indian Ocean and seasonal produce, such as Grilled Red Snapper and Flambé with Star Fruit. Kafe Kreol Beachside Bar and Restaurant is designed with a rustic concept and décor, serving up authentic Creole and Italian cuisine paired with both classic and locally inspired cocktails made with Takamaka Bay rum and fresh local produce such as coconuts and tamarind. For guests who gravitate towards a sip and swim session, the poolside Laroul Bar offers expertly prepared drinks and snacks.

Tribute Portfolio participates in Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International. Marriott Bonvoy Members will earn points for their stay at the new resort, and at other properties across Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalisation and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.

Madrid, Spain, March 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has released a new report highlighting the progress that global tourism has made in measuring greenhouse gas emissions as well as the challenges the sector still faces.

Measurement of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is key for climate action. However, the tourism sector as the value chain is complex, diverse and overlapping, making sure measurement challenging. The new report “Climate Action in the Tourism Sector: An Overview of Methodologies and Tools to Measure Greenhouse Gas Emissions” was developed by UNWTO with support from the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection of Germany (BMUV) and is released in collaboration with UN Climate Change (UNFCCC). It focuses on three areas – accommodation, tour operators and destinations – with the following findings:

• Accommodation has the largest number of methodologies and specifically-designed tools, followed by tour operators
• Destinations face the greatest challenges when it comes to engaging in measurement
• There is little consensus over the differing responsibilities and boundaries of stakeholders, or over metrics used when organisations measure emissions

Recommendations for better GHG measurements

While noting that measurement of GHG emissions in tourism is still in its early stages, the report found a new generation of tools and resources is emerging. These focus on enabling easy access and making use of commonly available data sources, showing progress towards integrated measurement and targeted guidance for more efficient reporting and more effective decarbonization efforts.

Among its key recommendations, the report calls for:

• Tailored guidance for different stakeholder groups (destinations, accommodation, tour operators) to be developed
• Achieving a balance between the need to be able to accurately measure and the priority to scale up engagement, efficiency and progress
• Promoting the benefits of measurement by showcasing evidence-based changes in practices and advancing climate risk valuations to mobilize support

Advancing tourism knowledge

The overview builds on the results of the first Global Survey on Climate Action in Tourism, which led to the identification of more than 50 methodologies and tools, with their subsequent assessment against a set of criteria and in-depth interviews and working group sessions with experts from across the sector. With this new report, UNWTO aims to provide guidance regarding the measurement of GHG emissions, accelerate climate action and to support the implementation of the commitments launched in November 2021 through the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.

For more information and to access the report, please visit: Climate Action in Tourism Sector: An overview of methodologies and tools to measure greenhouse gas emissions (unwto.org)

Geneva, Switzerland, March 16, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The World Economic Forum has announced the induction of the newest members of its Young Global Leaders Class of 2023. This year’s cohort includes nearly 100 promising political leaders, innovative entrepreneurs, game-changing researchers and visionary activists who are accelerating positive and lasting change in their communities, countries and the world.

Since its establishment in 2004, the Forum of Young Global Leaders has cultivated a diverse community of outstanding people addressing the world’s most pressing problems – today made up of over 1,400 members and alumni from more than 120 countries. In a turbulent and polarized world, committed, conscientious and inspired leaders are needed to create real-world change for the benefit of all. YGLs have demonstrated their commitment to improving the state of the world by unlocking the potential of technology for the common good, unveiling a plan to revolutionize health services in rural and refugee communities and galvanizing private sector action on pollution.

YGLs are renowned for their groundbreaking contributions to dynamic and exciting fields. Notable community members include Olympian Lewis Pugh and Paralympian Susannah Rodgers, Prime Minister Sanna Marin, entrepreneurs Jimmy Wales and Rhea Mazumdar Singhal, disability activist Sinéad Burke, computer scientist Joy Buolamwini, and professional racing driver Nico Rosberg.

As part of their three-year leadership development programme, YGLs will have access to a range of executive education courses, learning journeys and opportunities to collaborate with trusted peers, helping them achieve their goals and make an even more significant impact on society. We are excited to welcome the 2023 class of Young Global Leaders and are confident in their ability to bridge divides to create real-world change for the benefit of all.

“Celebrating these exceptional leaders, we commend the YGLs for their outstanding commitment to addressing pressing global issues. Their extraordinary achievements inspire us all and we are confident that their leadership will pave the way for a better future,” said Wadia Ait Hamza, Head of the Forum of Young Global Leaders.

“The World Economic Forum is honoured to welcome the latest group of Young Global Leaders, whose exceptional achievements and commitment to improving the world come at a time when cooperation, partnerships and responsible leadership are more critical than ever,” said Nicole Schwab, Board Member of the Forum of Young Global Leaders.

Meet the 2023 YGL Class

Academia/Think-tank

• Shinjini Kundu, Physician-Scientist, Johns Hopkins Hospital, USA
• Tanvi Ratna, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Policy 4.0. Research Foundation, India
• Vukosi Marivate, Chair of Data Science, Associate Professor of Computer Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa

Arts, Culture & Sports

• Fagun Thakrar, Founder, The Purpose Movie Studio, United Kingdom
• Noura Bint Faisal Al Saud, Founder and Managing Director, Global Culture House, Saudi Arabia
• Paolo Petrocelli, Head, Dubai Opera, United Arab Emirates
• Peace Hyde, Creator and Executive Producer, Netflix Inc., Ghana
• Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, ART X Collective, Nigeria
• Yuchun Li, Artist, Beijing Yellow Stone Media Co.,Ltd, People’s Republic of China

Business

• Aakrit Vaish, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Jio Haptik Technologies Limited, India
• Abdigani Diriye, Co-Founder, Bloom Financial Technologies, Kenya
• Adam Lou, Chief Executive Officer, Lollipop Technology (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd, People’s Republic of China
• Agon Gashi, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Meridian Express, Kosovo
• Alejo Czerwonko, Chief Investment Officer Emerging Markets Americas, UBS AG, USA
• Ali Akhai, Chairman, Martin Dow Limited, Pakistan
• Aron Schwarzkopf, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Kushki, Ecuador
• Barbara Garza, Former Country Manager, Director of Operations, Buenbit, Mexico
• Charles Zhaoxuan YANG, Chief Financial Officer, NetEase.com Inc., People’s Republic of China
• Claire Tsui, Managing Director, North Asia Head of Strategic Advisory and Private Asset Group, Credit Suisse AG Hong Kong Branch, Hong Kong SAR, China
• David Upton, Managing Director, Chief of Staff for Public Policy and Corporate Responsibility, Barclays PLC, United Kingdom
• Devina Pasta, Head of Strategy, Digital & Technology, Siemens AG, Germany
• Felipe Valencia-Dongo, Managing Partner, Grupo Estrategia Consultores, Peru
• Florian DELMAS, Chairman, Andros & Cie, France
• Fridtjof Berge, Co-Founder and Chief Business Officer, Antler Innovation Pte Ltd, Singapore
• Gregory Rockson, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, mPharma, Ghana
• Hussain Hanbazazah, Director of the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, Saudi Aramco, Saudi Arabia
• Hussam Hammo, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Tamatem Inc., Jordan
• Isabelle Yap, Executive Director and Vice President, East West Banking Corporation, Philippines
• Juan Pablo Mata, Chief Executive Officer, Grupo Mariposa, Apex Global Mobility, Guatemala
• Jussi Herlin, Vice Chairman of the Board, Kone Corporation, Finland
• Khaled Bin Braik, Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers, United Arab Emirates
• Lauren Tilstra, Chief of Staff and Executive Director, Strategic Communications, Verizon Communications, USA
• Lee Redden, Entrepreneur and Co-Founder, Hands On Robotics, USA
• Li Chen, President, Gotion Global, Gotion High-tech, People’s Republic of China
• Maria Vircikova, Chief Executive Officer, MATSUKO, Slovakia
• Mariana Dias, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, Gupy, Brazil
• Marissa Giustina, Research Scientist and Quantum Electronics Engineer, Google LLC, USA
• Marta Pinheiro, Director, XP Inc., Brazil
• Moath Alnaeem, Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer, Alpha Capital, Saudi Arabia
• Mohamed Almaraj, Chief Executive Officer, ila Bank, Bahrain
• Moritz Baier-Lentz, Partner and Head of Gaming, Lightspeed Venture Partners, USA
• Porter Diehl, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Bridgewater Associates LP, USA
• Richard Ettl, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, SkyCell AG, Switzerland
• Roselyne Chambrier, Chief Executive Officer, Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms (Arise IIP), Côte d’Ivoire
• Sanaa Souidi, Head of Group Risks and Analytics, Swiss Re Management Ltd, Switzerland
• Shelley Stewart, Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company, Inc., USA
• Smriti Kirubanandan, Engagement Director, Tata Consultancy Services Ltd, USA
• Sofia Elizondo, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Brightseed Bio, USA
• Stefany Bello, Senior Vice President of Digital Partnerships, Retail & Commerce, Mastercard, USA
• Sudarshan Venu, Managing Director, TVS Motor Company Limited, India
• Sven Holstenson, Managing Partner, Pictet & Cie Group SCA, Switzerland
• Tiffany Xingyu Wang, Chief Trust and Marketing Officer, Open Web Technologies Ltd., USA
• Tom Plümmer, Chief Executive Officer, Wingcopter GmbH, Germany
• Varun Sivaram, Group Senior Vice President, Strategy and Innovation, Ørsted Services A/S, USA
• Vibin B Joseph, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, BiOZEEN, India
• Wafa Al Obaidat, Chief Executive Officer, Obai and Hill, Bahrain
• Wei Li, Managing Director, Global Chief Investment Strategist, BlackRock Inc., United Kingdom
• Yusuke Narita, Founder, Hanjuku-kaso Inc., Japan
• Zhang Yaoyu, General Manager Global LNG and New Energies, PetroChina International, People’s Republic of China

Civil Society

• Avital Saskia Niño de Rivera Cover, Co-Founder and Spokeswoman, Reinserta -Un Mexico A.C-, Mexico
• Chong Yu, China Chief Representative, WildAid, People’s Republic of China
• Jonathan Fantini Porter, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Partnership for Central America, Guatemala
• Kluane Adamek, Yukon Regional Chief, Assembly of Nations, Canada
• Nick Allardice, Chief Executive Officer, Change.org, PBC, USA
• Oluseun Onigbinde, Co-Founder and Global Director, Budgit, Inc., Nigeria
• Roopa Dhatt, Executive Director, Women in Global Health, USA
• Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and Chief Executive Officer, UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), United Arab Emirates
• Ying Wei, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Deja Vu, People’s Republic of China
• Zhizhong Li, Co-Founder and Secretary General, Shiyu Children Foundation, People’s Republic of China

Media

• Margaret Zhang, Editor-in-Chief, Vogue China, People’s Republic of China
• Maureen Trantham, Senior Vice President, Head of Strategy and Social Impact & Philanthropy Operations, Sesame Workshop, USA
• Natashya Gutierrez, Editor-in-Chief, Asia Pacific, Vice News, Australia
• Uche Pedro, Founder, BellaNaija, Nigeria

Public Figures

• Aaditya Thackeray, Leader, Shivsena, India
• Adriana Tudela, Congresswoman, Congress of Peru, Peru
• Aïssata Lam, Director General, Investment Promotion Agency of Mauritania, Mauritania
• Amira Aisya Abd Aziz, Co-Founder and Deputy President, Malaysian United Democratic Alliance, Malaysia
• Arielle Kayabaga, Member of Parliament, House of Commons, Canada, Canada
• Batnairamdal Otgonshar, Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mongolian People’s Party, Mongolia
• Benjamina Karic, Mayor of Sarajevo, City of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Christoph Baumann, Envoy for Sustainable Finance, State Secretariat for International Finance, Switzerland
• Daniel Arrigg Koh, White House Deputy Cabinet Secretary and former United States Department of Labor and City of Boston Chief of Staff, White House, USA
• Huy Dung Nguyen, Vice-Minister, Ministry of Information and Communications of Viet Nam, Viet Nam
• Idan Roll, Member of the Knesset, The Israeli Knesset, Israel
• Justin Bibb, Mayor, City of Cleveland, USA
• Kow Abaka Essuman, Legal Counsel to the President, Office of the President of Ghana, Ghana
• Madhukeshwar Desai, National Vice President, BJYM (BJP Youth Wing), India
• Mateen of Brunei Darussalam, Prince, The State of Brunei, Brunei Darussalam
• Miguel Medina, Minister of Investment, Honduras Government, Honduras
• Sakaja Johnson, Governor, Nairobi City County, Kenya
• Shahril Sufian bin Hamdan, Founder, SHP3 Advisory, Office of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Malaysia
• Tara Iyer, Macroeconomist, International Monetary Fund, USA
• Wafaa Jemali, Secretary General, Head of Government of the Kingdom of Morocco, Morocco
• Walter Pacheco, Chief Executive Officer, Angolan Stock Exchange, Angola

Discover the new Young Global Leader (YGL) class at www.wef.ch/ygl23