Category: Latest Travel News

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, March 15, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, will participate in an in-depth discussion on the Global Stage of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2023, which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 1-4 May. In conversation with John Strickland, Director of JLS Consulting, Sir Tim will reflect on Emirates’ long-term strategy as it begins to ramp up aircraft deliveries from 2024 while balancing growth and tackling broader issues like climate change.

The news comes amid reports of significant gains across the Middle East’s aviation sector, which saw year-on-year traffic almost double in January 2023 according to figures released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This growth is especially evident in the UAE where Dubai International Airport (DXB) catered to more than 66 million passengers in 2022, a 127% rise compared to the previous year.

Over the longer term, analysts from Mordor Intelligence predict that the Middle East’s aviation market will record a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 6% during the period 2022-27, meaning regional passenger numbers are likely to continue to rise for the foreseeable future.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “It’s encouraging to see that air traffic in the Middle East is once again beginning to soar, especially following such a turbulent period during and after the global pandemic.

“We are looking forward to welcoming Sir Tim to our Global Stage for the 30th edition of ATM,” Curtis added. “Emirates has firmly established itself as an innovative trailblazer within the global aviation industry, so I cannot wait to hear how Sir Tim and his colleagues are working to build a futureproofed and sustainable airline sector.”

The leading role that Gulf airlines are playing in the decarbonisation of the aviation industry will represent a key focus during the upcoming edition of ATM. Earlier this year, Emirates announced that one of its Boeing 777-300ERs had successfully completed a demonstration flight powered by 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Etihad Airways, meanwhile, has teamed up with carbon-net-zero solutions specialist, World Energy, as part of a long-term strategic partnership that will result in dramatic emissions reductions.

The 30th edition of ATM will feature in-depth sessions dedicated to air travel on day two. Following the conclusion of Emirates Returns to Growth: President of Emirates Airline in Discussion with John Strickland, experts from Boeing, Etihad and SimpliFlying will assemble on ATM’s Global Stage to discuss The Net-Zero Future of the Aviation Industry. A broad range of regional carriers will also be participating in ATM 2023 in addition to Emirates and Etihad, including flydubai, flynas, Saudia Airlines, Saudi Amad for Airport Services and Air Transport, and Cham Wings Airlines.

ATM 2023 is anticipating a 7.5% year-on-year uptick in both participation and exhibition space occupied by the aviation sector, building on the excellent levels of engagement witnessed during last year’s show. On a broader level, the conference will explore the future of sustainable travel in line with its theme of ‘Working Towards Net Zero’. Having officially initiated its journey to net zero, the conference programme will explore how innovative sustainable travel trends are likely to evolve, allowing delegates to identify growth strategies within key vertical sectors, while providing a platform for regional experts to explore a sustainable future ahead of COP28, which will take place in November 2023 at Expo City Dubai.

The conference will also feature a sustainability category at its annual exhibitor awards for the first time. Exhibiting organisations will be recognised based on the extent to which they have considered the environmental impact of their stands, as well as their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint.

ATM 2023 is held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre and its strategic partners include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as the Destination Partner, Emirates as the Official Airline Partner, IHG Hotels & Resorts as the Official Hotel Partner and Al Rais Travel as the Official DMC Partner.

For more information log on to wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html

About Arabian Travel Market (ATM), now on its 30th year, is the leading, international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. ATM 2022 attracted over 24,000 visitors and hosted over 31,000 participants including 1,600 exhibitors and attendees from 151 countries, across 10 halls at Dubai World Trade Centre. Arabian Travel Market is part of Arabian Travel Week. Next in-person event: Monday 1 to Thursday 4 May 2023, Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai

Arabian Travel Week is a festival of events taking place within and alongside Arabian Travel Market 2023. Providing a renewed focus for the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector, it includes ILTM Arabia, ARIVAL Dubai, Influencers’ events and activations, ITIC, GBTA Business Travel Forums, as well as ATM Travel Tech. It also features the ATM Buyer Forums, ATM Speed Networking Events as well as a series of country forums.

About RX (Reed Exhibitions)
RX is in the business of building businesses for individuals, communities and organisations. We elevate the power of face-to-face events by combining data and digital products to help customers learn about markets, source products and complete transactions at over 400 events in 22 countries across 43 industry sectors. RX is passionate about making a positive impact on society and is fully committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers.

RELX About RELX
RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. The Group serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs over 33,000 people, of whom almost half are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York Stock Exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. The market capitalisation is approximately £33bn, €39bn, $47bn.

World Travel Market (WTM) Portfolio comprises leading travel events, online portals and virtual platforms across four continents. The events are:

WTM London, the leading global event for the travel industry, is the must-attend three-day exhibition for the worldwide travel and tourism industry. The show facilitates business connections for the global (leisure) travel community. Senior travel industry professionals, government ministers and international media visit ExCeL London every November, generating travel industry contracts. Next live event: Monday 6 to 8 November 2023 at ExCel London

WTM Latin America takes place annually in the city of São Paulo and attracts around 20,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers qualified content together with networking and business opportunities. In this its ninth edition – there have been eight face-to-face events along with a 100% virtual one, which was held in 2021 – WTM Latin America continued to focus on effective business generation and achieved the advance booking of six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents and exhibitors in 2022. Next event: Tuesday 4 to Thursday 6 April 2023 – Expo Center Norte, SP, Brazil

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2022, WTM Africa facilitated more than 7 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 7% compared to 2019 and welcomed more than 6 thousand visitors (unaudited), the same number as in 2019. Next event: Monday 3 to Wednesday 5 April 2023 – Cape Town International

About ATW Connect
Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel, LGBTQ+ travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology.

AlUla, Saudi Arabia, March 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO will celebrate tourism as a major factor of sustainable rural development at a special Best Tourism Villages ceremony to be held in AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (12-13 March).

Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO (BTV) is the flagship initiative of the Organization’s wider work to advance tourism as a pillar of rural development and opportunity. Since 2021, BTV has produced an annual list of destinations which stand out for their commitment to sustainability in all its aspects – economic, social and environmental – and the preservation and promotion of community-based values. The ceremony will bring together Ministers of Tourism alongside representatives of the most recent villages recognized by UNWTO, including AlUla Old Town District itself.

Tourism is a leading pillar of growth and opportunity for villages, supporting rural businesses, providing jobs for local communities, and celebrating traditions and heritage

“It is a great honour that AlUla is among this year’s award recipients. We look forward to continuing to raise awareness about the transformative role of tourism through our support for meaningful initiatives such as this,” said H.H. Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Farhan Al- Saud, Minister of Culture of Saudi Arabia, Member of Board of Directors, and the Governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Tourism is a leading pillar of growth and opportunity for villages, supporting rural businesses, providing jobs for local communities, and celebrating traditions and heritage. Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO recognises those destinations that are showing what tourism can offer, both for tourists as well as for the communities themselves.”

“We are delighted to host the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages 2022 Ceremony in Saudi Arabia this year. We look forward to sharing the rich history and heritage of the Kingdom with event attendees and participants,” said H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

About AlUla
AlUla Old Town District will be recognized at the prestigious ceremony. An ancient crossroads of civilisations and home to Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, AlUla is a leading example of the far-reaching benefits tourism can bring to rural communities as it is comprehensively regenerated into the world’s largest living museum by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU).

Koh Lanta, Thailand, March 11, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Vibrant annual event showcases the diverse culture and nature in this southern Thai paradise, including a creative contest to make artistic sculptures from recycled waste. Pimalai Resort & Spa, the five-star sanctuary on the southern Thai island of Koh Lanta, has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the island’s culture and environment by joining forces with the local government and community to be part of the 18th Laanta Lanta Festival 2023, a vibrant annual festival designed to showcase the island’s rich multicultural and natural heritage.

Nestled in the Andaman Sea, just off the coast of southern Thailand’s Krabi province, Koh Lanta is a diverse society comprising Muslims, Thai Buddhists, Chinese Thais and the Chao Ley people, who live their lives on the sea. Together, they have lived and worked in harmony for over 122 years, while also protecting the island’s abundance of natural resources – including lush green forests, colourful underwater ecosystems and native wildlife – for future generations.

Celebrating this rich diversity, the Laanta Lanta Festival ran from 3-5 March 2023 and featured a wide range of activities and events related to the conservation of the island. This year’s festival was opened by Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism & Sports, together with local government officials in a major ceremony at the courtyard in front of the Ko Lanta Community Museum.

One of the highlights of this year’s event was a sculpture contest that challenged the island’s schoolchildren and residents to create artworks made from recycled waste, including trash that had washed up on Koh Lanta’s beaches. Based on the theme of indigenous land and sea creatures, this initiative saw imaginative sculptures created from plastic bottles, beverage cans, sandals, food boxes and other debris which would otherwise have been left in nature where it could pose a severe danger to wildlife, such as sea turtles. This activity not only helped to clear trash from the island; it also raised awareness about pollution and the need for effective waste management among students, islanders, tourists and business operators.

The Laanta Lanta Festival was organised in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and B. Grimm, a group of companies that specialise in energy, health and educating young people about ecological challenges, along with officials, private organisations and the people of Koh Lanta.

Pimalai has been a long-term supporter and partner of the festival, which reflects its deep commitment to environmental conservation and social integration. Ever since this five-star resort opened its doors 21 years ago, it has worked on regular projects with authorities to help preserve Koh Lanta. For example, In November 2022, Pimalai came together with the government of Krabi province, Koh Lanta district, the Royal Thai Navy and local businesses to release 50 sea turtles and tens of millions of blue crabs into the sea at the resort’s beach. Next month, from 19-22 April 2023, Pimalai will team up with the Thai government’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife & Plant Conservation once again to undertake the latest coral restoration project at Koh Haa. Many more initiatives planned are being planning in the future, as Pimalai works tirelessly to secure a sustainable future for Koh Lanta.

Blissfully serene and secluded, Koh Lanta is a unique destination that feels very different from southern Thailand’s busier tourist islands. By highlighting the unique strengths of a multicultural community and pristine environment to Thai and international tourists, Pimalai is playing an active role in positioning the island as a world-leading sustainable tourism destination.

For more information about Pimalai Resort & Spa, to book a room or make a restaurant reservation, call +66 (0) 2 320 5500

About Pimalai Resort & Spa
Koh Lanta’s first five-star resort, Pimalai Resort & Spa has been redefining luxury hospitality on this idyllic Andaman island since it launched almost two decades ago. Voted Southeast Asia’s second best resort in Travel + Leisure’s annual “World’s Best Awards”, this award-winning property cascades through 100 acres of tropical jungles easing its way towards one of Thailand’s best beaches: Kantiang Bay. It’s here that guests while the days away lounging on what often feels like a private beach or spend action-packed afternoons out in the cerulean sea scuba diving, snorkelling or simply relaxing on a sunset cruise. A smattering of local bars and restaurants line the beach, but its Pimalai’s onsite eateries that tend to steal the show. The legendary Rak Talay beachfront bar and restaurant is as loved for the sumptuous Thai-style seafood as it is its sunset setting, while nestled in the resort’s jungle interior, Seven Seas serves up Michelin-chef-conceived menus throughout the evening. Guests can also indulge in an array of onsite wellness experiences, ranging from traditional Muay Thai classes to early evening tennis matches and pampered afternoons at the signature Pimalai Spa. With no immediate neighbours, the 121-room resort is a serene sanctuary where guests can feel completely at peace in their private surroundings. From Hillside Ocean Pool Villas that command vistas of the stunning scenery through to the Beachside Villas, situated only a few short steps away from the shoreline, rooms at Pimalai cater to all tastes with spacious layouts and designs that seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings.

AlUla, Saudi Arabia, March 14, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism importance for rural development was the message at the heart of the Best Tourism Villages Ceremony.

The initiative is one of the pillars of UNWTO Tourism for Rural Development Programme.  Every year, Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO recognizes destinations which stand out for their commitment to sustainability in all its aspects – economic, social and environmental – and the preservation and promotion of community-based values.

Alongside the ceremony itself, the First Annual Meeting of the Best Tourism Villages Network, a platform for sharing of knowledge and experiences, was held. During the meeting, the villages discussed their challenges and opportunities as well as their workplan for the coming year.

For rural communities everywhere, tourism is a hugely powerful force for growth and opportunity

“It is a great honour that AlUla is among this year’s award recipients. We look forward to continuing to raise awareness about the transformative role of tourism through our support for meaningful initiatives such as this,” said H.H. Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Farhan Al- Saud, Minister of Culture of Saudi Arabia, Member of Board of Directors, and the Governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “For rural communities everywhere, tourism is a hugely powerful force for growth and opportunity. With Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO, we recognize and celebrate those destinations where this force is being truly embraced, whether it’s creating jobs and supporting businesses or preserving local heritage. We look forward to keep growing with our Best Tourism Villages Network both in size and in influence.”

“We are delighted to host the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages 2022 Ceremony in Saudi Arabia this year. We look forward to sharing the rich history and heritage of the Kingdom with event attendees and participants,” said H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Khao Lak, Thailand, March 14, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Reimagined beach front retreat pioneers a new style of travel, based around a collection of warm, intentional, natural and uplifting experiences. The intimate dining experience on the beach at sunset is one of a host of experiences offered to guests at the resort. JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa and JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort Suites, the pioneering beachfront retreat in southern Thailand, have unveiled 21 signature experiences for 2023 that will enable every guest to explore the authentic heart and soul of their destination and elevate their vacation. Designed for a new generation of experience-seeking globetrotters, including curious couples, fun-seeking families and friends with a passion for discovery, these engaging activities will ignite every visitor’s appetite for adventure.

Whether you want to experience the Warm, Intentional, Uplifting or Natural, simply pick from any of these enlivening activities, each of which has been carefully crafted by the resort’s team of experts.

Let us help you take care of the most important people in your life. We can arrange a beachside Family Picnic, complete with a tipi, picnic basket, blanket and so much more, or gather your loved ones for a Family BBQ, crafted by a private chef in the JW Garden and filled with fresh ingredients, local seafood and prime meats. For romantic couples, our culinary team can serve a Romantic Dinner at a candlelit table for two in any location you desire. If you care about nature, head down to the JW Garden, where you can learn about our three signature ingredients: rosella, Thai basil and lemongrass, which can be seen all around our resort.

Discover the rich culture of Khao Lak with a Beachfront Sunday Market – an invigorating and immersive encounter that will stimulate the senses with exotic sights, sounds and smells. For a more soothing activity, our Coconut Workshops will teach you how to make traditional southern Thai coconut oils and soaps by hand, while our spa packages are full of organic scrubs and therapies. Alternatively, simply grab ice-cold coconuts from our Coconut Boat as you relax in the lagoon pool or on the terrace with your loved ones. Finally, Movie Night is Khao Lak’s first open air beachfront cinematic experience – a wonderful way to unwind.

What could be better than learning a new skill on your vacation? Our experts are ready to show you their skills and teach you the tricks you need to be a master crafter. Led by our resident mixologists, our Mixology Master Class will reveal how to blend the perfect cocktail using fresh produce from the JW Garden, while the Culinary Master Classes let you recreate some of the resort’s most amazing dishes, include handmade pasta with Chef Enzo, Indian spices with Chef Mohan or Thai cookery with Chef Sa. Wellness seekers can also join our organic Bath Bomb Workshop, using ingredients from the JW Garden.

For children, family vacations are when many of life’s most magical memories are made. Treat your kids to an array of inspiring experiences and activities, including the chance to watch a Magician perform tricks before their eyes, or take part in Kids’ Daily Rituals at Sala, the casual poolside restaurant, such as sea boxing, games, cookie decorating, mocktail making and more. Unleash your children’s creativity with Wall Painting sessions, as they swap paper and pens for a vast canvas, or uncover arts & crafts, aquatic adventures and discovery walks with our daily Kids’ Club Activities. Then, at the end of the day, gather round a fire pit on the beach for Marshmallow Toasting.

If you’re passionate about sustainability, our innovative Art of Trash workshops combine creativity with sustainability as we take debris and driftwood from the shore and turn it into stunning sculptures. From Q2 2023, we’ll also be delighted to invite you to our Shark Nursery, a dedicated marine sanctuary that connects all ages with the Andaman Sea’s threatened bamboo sharks. Join our fully trained team of conservationists and find out how they nurture the sharks, from the incubation of eggs to the time of release.

Find physical fulfilment on your vacation with our active experiences. Join our Muay Thai instructor and learn the art of Thai boxing, a colourful martial art that is steeped in tradition. Alternatively, a Bike Tour can reveal the many wonders of Khao Lak, including local villages, Chong Fah Waterfall, Bang Niang Market and even the chance to present alms to Buddhist monks at the nearby temple. Mindfulness can also be achieved with a Floating Yoga class, as you stretch your body and achieve physical and spiritual equilibrium on our purpose-built floating yoga platforms.

“Today’s travellers do not only want to see a new destination – they want to live it, breathe it and feel it. That’s why we’ve curated a comprehensive collection of experiences that encompass every aspect of our resort and every type of guest. Following the completion of our transformative renovation, we are proud to unveil a new way of travelling that will connect our clientele with the spirit of southern Thailand,” said Abhimanyu Singh, General Manager, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa and JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort Suites.

Following its recent transformation, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa and JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort Suites have become the ultimate destination for experience-seeking travellers. With an intuitive collection of rooms, suites and villas to suit every style of vacation, from couples’ breaks to family escapes with young kids and teens, plus world-class restaurants, a stunning spa, fitness centre, kids’ club, and a 2.4 km-long lagoon pool – the longest in Southeast Asia – including an Aqua Play Zone, all nestled among landscaped tropical gardens just moments from the shore, this is an unparalleled beachfront retreat.

About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every momfunent to the fullest. Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.

About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques.

Bohol, 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.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, March 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will work together to promote education and professional development in tourism.

Education and Training: A Priority for Tourism

As the United Nations specialized agency for tourism, UNWTO has identified education as one of its key priorities for the sector. While tourism is already a leading employer and a top provide of opportunity, most notably for women and youth, UNWTO is working to expand access to education, training and jobs and to support those already working in the sector to develop professionally.

We are working to break down barriers between jobs, skills and training and so deliver on tourism’s massive potential as an employer

UNWTO’s Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili notes: “Our vision is to provide anyone interested in the tourism sector access to the many and varied opportunities it offers, no matter where they are in the world. We are working to break down barriers between jobs, skills and training and so deliver on tourism’s massive potential as an employer.”

Saudi Minister of Tourism, H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb, says “Investing in human capital development is an investment in all our futures. This is a landmark agreement that prioritizes people with a focus on the power of e-learning. Collaborating with UNWTO, we can ensure that development opportunities are accessible worldwide, building the workforce necessary to support a thriving and sustainable future for the sector.”

UNWTO and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Agreement

Against the backdrop of the ITB Berlin, UNWTO signed an agreement with the Ministry of Tourism of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The first of its kind, the agreement is focused on the creation of training and quality certification programs in the Kingdom. The training will have a global reach and be built around collaboration in the following areas:

1. Online Courses: The creation of massive online open courses targeting the global tourism sector workforce, which reaches up to 300 million people. The courses will be managerial as well as vocational and available in Arabic, Chinese, English, French and Spanish. Topics will include entrepreneurship, innovation, event management, destination management, sustainability, gastronomy, hotel and restaurant operations.
2. Jobs Factory and Tourism Labor Market Observatory: To promote the creation of added value jobs through capacity building and analysis of the workforce skills in the Kingdom. The initiative will benefit up to 100,000 job seekers and involve at least 50 tourism businesses.
3. TedQual Quality Certification Programs: Up to 50 tourism education and training programs will be assessed as part of the UNWTO TedQual process. Up to 35 programs in tourism education and training institutions in the Kingdom will participate in this certification program.
4. Innovation & Digital Transformation: To create programs with the aim of promoting innovation and digital transformation to empower youth and small and medium enterprises in tourism field.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Verification Scheme

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

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

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

Hotel Partners

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

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

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

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

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

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

Green Lodgings Trend Report

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

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

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

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

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

Emerging practices were also highlighted in the report.

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

Sector Partners

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

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

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

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

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

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

Destination Partners

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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