Category: Latest Travel News

Zurich, Switzerland, December 8, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / HolidayCheck Premium members can now request free personalized travel itineraries created by The Trip Boutique. This partnership marks an important milestone for the expansion of The Trip Boutique’s B2B travel-as-a-service offering and underscores HolidayCheck’s commitment to innovation and customer orientation.

HolidayCheck, the leading German-speaking OTA, and The Trip Boutique announce a partnership to offer AI-powered 1×1 travel advisory for HolidayCheck Premium, a subscription program that provides benefits such as exclusive access to deals, special offers, and top discounts from selected partners for its members. Starting today, all HolidayCheck Premium members can get travel plans tailored to their individual preferences and tastes in all of The Trip Boutique’s city destinations. These hyper-personalized travel itineraries produced by The Trip Boutique include curated recommendations of HolidayCheck hotels and much more: the best-matching dining options, sights, shops, bars, activities – everything to make Premium members’ holidays unique.

The Trip Boutique’s service combines artificial intelligence with local expert knowledge to provide personalized advisory that saves travelers the time and effort to plan their trips. Besides offering individual recommendations of things to do and see in a destination, The Trip Boutique’s intelligent systems also suggest daily itineraries with proposed times for maximum convenience.

From Packaged to Personalized

The new service helps HolidayCheck Premium deliver more personalized offers, inspire its members and thus create a fun and stress-free travel planning experience.

Christoph Ludmann, CEO of HolidayCheck AG says: “The AI-based technology developed by The Trip Boutique adds real value for travelers, as it helps them make the best of their valuable time at the destination. We are convinced that this cooperation will strengthen our capabilities with respect to personalization and inspiration, enriching the travel experience for our customers.”

Steffen Ketterer, Business Lead of HolidayCheck Premium adds: “We are delighted that we can offer the benefit of personalized travel advice to HolidayCheck Premium members so that they can discover their destination in a convenient and innovative way. This offering is a step forward to transform the experience of Premium members towards more personalized travel services.”

With The Trip Boutique’s digital travel advice service, HolidayCheck underscores its customer focus and brings innovation to its relationship with Premium members by providing them with the best recommendations at every step of their trip.

“At The Trip Boutique, our mission is to give travel brands the superpowers to offer hyper-personalized travel advisory to their clients, so that travelers feel inspired and find what they love at their destination,” says Fernanda Barrence Mutz, CEO and co-founder of The Trip Boutique. “We’re excited to work with HolidayCheck Premium to reimagine the way its members plan and book their trips while boosting the business intelligence”, she adds. This partnership with a leading OTA also marks an important milestone for The Trip Boutique’s novel B2B travel-as-a-service offering.

About HolidayCheck AG
Making holidays better – this is the vision of HolidayCheck, the highest-reach holiday platform in the German-speaking area. Transparency, quality, and innovation drive the online booking and rating portal to offer holidaymakers the best travel experience. It is based on more than 10 million hotel reviews, its own online travel agency and offers from 88 tour operators and other tourism service providers. Since 2021 there also have been suitable rental car offers from HolidayCheck Car Rental on the platform. Moreover, travelers can find lots of helpful information and inspiration in the travel forum with over 3.7 million members and the HolidayCheck online magazine Away. In addition, HolidayCheck has been working intensively against review fraud and has founded the initiative Together against fake reviews. HolidayCheck AG is a subsidiary of the HolidayCheck Group, was founded in 2003 and is based in Bottighofen in Switzerland, near the German border town Konstanz.

About HolidayCheck Premium
HolidayCheck Premium, part of HolidayCheck AG, is an innovative subscription service for travelers on the HolidayCheck platform. Members pay a yearly subscription fee and in return get access to cash-back vouchers, exclusive deals, pre-sales, premium service, and partner benefits such as free foreign travel health insurance. HolidayCheck Premium aims to offer its members the services and products that make each trip memorable.

About The Trip Boutique
The Trip Boutique is an award-winning Swiss travel-tech company focused on AI-based personalization of travel experiences. By innovatively combining artificial intelligence with human expertise, The Trip Boutique has built a suite of proprietary tools and a match-making technology to identify the hotels, restaurants, bars, cafes, programs, attractions, and experiences in a destination that best fit each traveler’s interests, lifestyle and tastes. Through a modular solution, The Trip Boutique allows travel brands to elevate their customers’ experience by offering personalized advisory and itineraries while gaining rich data insights and adding business intelligence.

Madrid, Spain, December 7, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and the Comunidad de Madrid have reunited 18 experts from all around the world to share ideas, debate and explore the challenges and trends of cultural tourism.

The meeting focused on the strategic management of cultural resources for the destinations, including the challenge of managing tourist flows through different routes or combined products. Experts also discussed on how to promote lesser-known destinations which are outside of the major tourist circuits as a way to avoid the saturation of main touristic attractions. In this sense, for example, the experts examined crucial role of tourism promotion, marketing strategies, and public-private partnerships for the development of cultural tourism.

The debates focused on the identification of aspects that are jeopardizing the sustainability of cultural tourism. This brings up the eternal dilemma between conservation and development, and to what extent it is legitimate to exploit the cultural values of a territory for the socio-economic growth.

Ion Vilcu, Director of the UNWTO Affiliate Members Department, highlighted the importance of cultural values for the promotion of destinations. He added “UNWTO is providing solutions to the conflicts that tourist saturation is generating in major destinations and cultural sites, as well as to promote the development of tourism in lesser-known sites, stimulating their conservation and fostering the positive effects that tourism generates in terms of socioeconomic development”.

Daniel Martinez, Deputy Regional Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Region of Madrid, highlighted the opportunity for the Region of Madrid to host such an important international meeting. “We are very pleased to facilitate reflection on the region’s essential tourism model. We are experiencing a large increase in high-value tourists who visit us attracted by our cultural and heritage offer, which is why it is essential to understand the trends of cultural tourism and to promote its sustainable growth, generating employment and attracting investment.”

During the last 3 days these international experts have been working to draw up conclusions and set out recommendations for cultural and tourism destination management that will be featured in a report to be presented next January at the International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR). On this occasion, experts also had the opportunity to visit the Picasso/Chanel Exhibition at the National Museum Thyssen-Bornemisza, along with the Royal Site and Town of Aranjuez.

Geneva, Switzerland, December 6, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects a return to profitability for the global airline industry in 2023 as airlines continue to cut losses stemming from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic to their business in 2022.

– In 2023, airlines are expected to post a small net profit of $4.7 billion—a 0.6% net profit margin. It is the first profit since 2019 when industry net profits were $26.4 billion (3.1% net profit margin).
– In 2022, airline net losses are expected to be $6.9 billion (an improvement on the $9.7 billion loss for 2022 in IATA’s June outlook). This is significantly better than losses of $42.0 billion and $137.7 billion that were realized in 2021 and 2020 respectively.

“Resilience has been the hallmark for airlines in the COVID-19 crisis. As we look to 2023, the financial recovery will take shape with a first industry profit since 2019. That is a great achievement considering the scale of the financial and economic damage caused by government imposed pandemic restrictions. But a $4.7 billion profit on industry revenues of $779 billion also illustrates that there is much more ground to cover to put the global industry on a solid financial footing. Many airlines are sufficiently profitable to attract the capital needed to drive the industry forward as it decarbonizes. But many others are struggling for a variety of reasons. These include onerous regulation, high costs, inconsistent government policies, inefficient infrastructure and a value chain where the rewards of connecting the world are not equitably distributed,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

2022

Improved prospects for 2022 stem largely from strengthened yields and strong cost control in the face of rising fuel prices.

Passenger yields are expected to grow by 8.4% (up from the 5.6% anticipated in June). Propelled by that strength, passenger revenues are expected to grow to $438 billion (up from $239 billion in 2021).

Air cargo revenues played a key role in cutting losses with revenues expected to reach $201.4 billion. That is an improvement compared with the June forecast, largely unchanged from 2021, and more than double the $100.8 billion earned in 2019.

Overall revenues are expected to grow by 43.6% compared to 2021, reaching an estimated $727 billion.

Most other factors evolved in a negative manner following a downgrade of GDP growth expectations (from 3.4% in June to 2.9%), and delays in removing COVID-19 restrictions in several markets, particularly China. IATA’s June forecast anticipated that passenger traffic would reach 82.4% of pre-crisis levels in 2022, but it now appears that the industry demand recovery will reach 70.6% of pre-crisis levels. Cargo, on the other hand, was anticipated to exceed 2019 levels by 11.7%, but that is now more likely be moderated to 98.4% of 2019 levels.

On the cost side, jet kerosene prices are expected to average $138.8/barrel for the year, considerably higher than the $125.5/barrel expected in June. That reflects higher oil prices exaggerated by a jet crack spread that is well-above historic averages. Even with lower demand leading to reduced consumption, this raised the industry’s fuel bill to $222 billion (well above the $192 billion anticipated in June).

“That airlines were able to cut their losses in 2022, in the face of rising costs, labor shortages, strikes, operational disruptions in many key hubs and growing economic uncertainty speaks volumes about peoples’ desire and need for connectivity. With some key markets like China retaining restrictions longer than anticipated, passenger numbers fell somewhat short of expectation. We’ll end the year at about 70% of 2019 passenger volumes. But with yield improvement in both cargo and passenger businesses, airlines will reach the cusp of profitability,” said Walsh.

2023

In 2023 the airline industry is expected to tip into profitability. Airlines are anticipated to earn a global net profit of $4.7 billion on revenues of $779 billion (0.6% net margin). This expected improvement comes despite growing economic uncertainties as global GDP growth slows to 1.3% (from 2.9% in 2022).

“Despite the economic uncertainties, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about 2023. Lower oil price inflation and continuing pent-up demand should help to keep costs in check as the strong growth trend continues. At the same time, with such thin margins, even an insignificant shift in any one of these variables has the potential to shift the balance into negative territory. Vigilance and flexibility will be key,” said Walsh.

Main Drivers

Passenger: The passenger business is expected to generate revenues of $522 billion. Passenger demand is expected to reach 85.5% of 2019 levels over the course of 2023. Much of this expectation takes into account the uncertainties of China’s Zero COVID policies which are constraining both domestic and international markets. Nonetheless, passenger numbers are expected to surpass the four billion mark for the first time since 2019, with 4.2 billion travelers expected to fly. Passenger yields, however, are expected to soften (-1.7%) as somewhat lower energy costs are passed through to the consumer, despite passenger demand growing more quickly (+21.1%) than passenger capacity (+18.0%).

Cargo: Cargo markets are expected to come under increased pressure in 2023. Revenues are expected to be $149.4 billion, which is $52 billion less than 2022 but still $48.6 billion stronger than 2019. With economic uncertainty, cargo volumes are expected to decrease to 57.7 million tonnes, from a peak of 65.6 million tonnes in 2021. As belly capacity grows in line with the recovery in passenger markets, yields are expected to take a significant step back. IATA expects a fall of 22.6% in cargo yields, mostly in the latter part of the year when the impact of inflation-cooling measures are expected to bite. To put the yield decline in context, cargo yields grew by 52.5% in 2020, 24.2% in 2021 and 7.2% in 2022. Even the sizable and expected decline leaves cargo yields well-above pre-COVID levels.

Costs: Overall costs are expected to grow by 5.3% to $776 billion. That growth is expected to be 1.8 percentage points below revenue growth, thus supporting a return to profitability. Cost pressures are still there from labor, skill and capacity shortages. Infrastructure costs are also a concern.

Nonetheless, non-fuel unit costs are expected to fall to 39.8 cents/available tonne kilometer (down from 41.7 cents/ATK in 2022 and nearly matching the 39.2 cents/ATK achieved in 2019). Airline efficiency gains are expected to drive passenger load factors to 81.0 %, just slightly below the 82.6% achieved in 2019.

The total fuel spend for 2023 is expected to be $229 billion—consistent at 30% of expenses. IATA’s forecast is based on Brent crude at $92.3/barrel (down from an average of $103.2/barrel in 2022). Jet kerosene is expected to average $111.9/barrel (down from $138.8/barrel). This decrease reflects a relative stabilization of fuel supply after the initial disruptions from the war in Ukraine. The premium charged for jet fuel (crack spread) remains near historical highs.

Risks: The economic and geopolitical environment presents several potential risks to the 2023 outlook.
– While indications are that there could be an easing of aggressive inflation-fighting interest rate hikes from early 2023, the risk of some economies falling into recession remains. Such a slowdown could affect demand for both passenger and cargo services. It would, however, likely come with some mitigation in the form of lower oil prices.
– The outlook anticipates a gradual re-opening of China to international traffic and the easing of domestic COVID-19 restrictions progressively from the second half of 2023. A prolongation of China’s Zero COVID policies would adversely affect the outlook.
– If materialized, proposals for increased infrastructure charges or taxes to support sustainability efforts could also eat away at profitability in 2023.

“The job of airline managements will remain challenging as careful watch on economic uncertainties will be critical. The good news is that airlines have built flexibility into their business models to be able to handle the economic accelerations and decelerations impacting demand. Airline profitability is razor thin. Each passenger carried is expected to contribute on average just $1.11 to the industry’s net profit. In most parts of the world that’s far less than what is needed to buy cup of coffee. Airlines must remain vigilant to any increases in taxes or infrastructure fees. And we’ll need to be particularly wary of those made in the name of sustainability. Our commitment is to net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. We’ll need all the resources we can muster, including government incentives, to finance this enormous energy transition. More taxes and higher charges would be counter-productive,” said Walsh.

Regional Round Up

All regions’ financial performance continues to improve since the depth of the pandemic losses seen in 2020. North America is the only region to return to profitability in 2022, based on our estimates. Two regions will join ranks with North America in this respect in 2023: Europe and the Middle East, while Latin America, Africa, and Asia-Pacific will remain in the red.

North American carriers are expected realize profits of $9.9 billion in 2022 and $11.4 billion in 2023. In 2023, passenger demand growth of 6.4% is expected to outpace capacity growth of 5.5%. Over the year, the region is expected to serve 97.2% of pre-crisis demand levels with 98.9% of pre-crisis capacity.

Carriers in the region benefitted from fewer and shorter-lasting travel restrictions than many other countries and regions. This boosted the large US domestic market, as well as international travel, notably across the Atlantic.

European carriers are expected to see a loss of $3.1 billion in 2022, and a profit of $621 million in 2023. In 2023, passenger demand growth of 8.9% is expected to outpace capacity growth of 6.1%. Over the year, the region is expected to serve 88.7% of pre-crisis demand levels with 89.1% of pre-crisis capacity.

The war in Ukraine has curtailed the activities of some of the region’s carriers. Operational disruptions at some of the continent’s hubs are being resolved, but labor unrest continues at various locations.

Asia-Pacific carriers are expected to post a loss of $10.0 billion in 2022, narrowing to a $6.6 billion loss in 2023. In 2023, passenger demand growth of 59.8% is expected to outpace capacity growth of 47.8%. Over the year, the region is expected to serve 70.8% of pre-crisis demand levels with 75.5% of pre-crisis capacity.

Asia-Pacific is critically held back by the impact of China’s zero COVID policies on travel and the region’s losses are largely skewed by the performance of China’s airlines who face the full impact of this policy in both domestic and international markets. Taking a conservative view of progressive easing of restrictions in China over the second half of 2023, we nevertheless expect strong pent-up demand to fuel a quick rebound in the wake of any such moves. The region’s performance receives a significant boost from profitable air cargo markets, in which it is the largest player.

Middle East carriers are expected to post a loss of $1.1 billion in 2022, and a profit of $268 million in 2023. In 2023, passenger demand growth of 23.4% is expected to outpace capacity growth of 21.2%. Over the year, the region is expected to serve 97.8% of pre-crisis demand levels with 94.5% of pre-crisis capacity.

The region has benefitted from a certain degree of re-routing resulting from the war in Ukraine, and more significantly so from the pent-up travel demand using the region’s extensive global networks as international travel markets re-opened.

Latin American carriers are expected to post a loss of $2.0 billion in 2022, reducing to $795 million in 2023. In 2023, passenger demand growth of 9.3% is expected to outpace capacity growth of 6.3%. Over the year, the region is expected to serve 95.6% of pre-crisis demand levels with 94.2% of pre-crisis capacity.

Latin America has shown buoyancy over the year, largely owing to the fact that many countries began lifting their COVID-19 travel restrictions since mid-year.

African carriers are expected to post a loss of $638 million in 2022, narrowing to a loss of $213 million in 2023. Passenger demand growth of 27.4% is expected to outpace capacity growth of 21.9%. Over the year, the region is expected to serve 86.3% of pre-crisis demand levels with 83.9% of pre-crisis capacity.

Africa is particularly exposed to macro-economic headwinds which have increased the vulnerability of several economies and rendered connectivity more complex.

Bottom Line

“The expected profits for 2023 are razor thin. But it is incredibly significant that we have turned the corner to profitability. The challenges that airlines will face in 2023, while complex, will fall into our areas of experience. The industry has built a great capability to adjust to fluctuations in the economy, major cost items like fuel prices, and passenger preference. We see this demonstrated in the decade of strengthening profitability following the 2008 Global Financial Crisis and ending with the pandemic. And encouragingly, there are plenty of jobs and the majority of people are confident to travel even with an uncertain economic outlook,” said Walsh.

Passengers are taking advantage of the return of their freedom to travel. A recent IATA poll of travelers in 11 global markets revealed that nearly 70% are traveling as much or more than they did prior to the pandemic. And, while the economic situation is concerning to 85% of travelers, 57% have no intention to curb their travel habits.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia, December 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As part of its action plan to boost tourism recovery in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), Destination Mekong, the private regional tourism board of the GMS, based in Cambodia and Singapore, will have the third edition of its Destination Mekong Summit on 14-15 December 2022.

As international travel has resumed in the GMS and globally, the 2022 Destination Mekong Summit will take place in Trellion and Aquation Parks on Koh Pich in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and online, under the theme ‘Together – Smarter – Stronger’.

Designed as a two-day journey celebrating creativity, diversity and inclusivity, the 2022 DMS will gather 40 speakers, and prominent representatives of the public and private sectors involved in the travel, tourism and hospitality in the Mekong region: operators and owners of tourism SMEs, social entrepreneurs, policy-makers, practitioners, influencers, change-makers, educators and learners, high-level officials, etc.

The program of the Summit features eight thematic panel sessions, three of them being led by supporting partners including:

· World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) session on ‘Championing the GMS as a sustainable tourism destination’, a key partner of the 2022 DMS;

· Child Protection in Travel and Tourism (ECPAT) International: session on ‘Practicing social responsibility and inclusiveness in tourism’;

· Beyond Retail Business (BRB) session on ‘Catching the value of local culture, know-how and creativity’.

Other panel sessions will address a variety of subjects such as innovative capacity-building, sustainable food and beverage businesses and experiences, marketing and branding for SMEs, social enterprises and start-ups in tourism, and opportunities and threats for tourism recovery in the GMS.

On the morning of the second day, 15 December, the Destination Mekong Summit will offer its participants the opportunity to attend the following training sessions and workshops:

– Training of Tour Guides as Wildlife Champions and Agents for Positive Changes by WWF,

– Sustainable tourism recovery with child protection in focus by ECPAT International,

– Storytelling techniques by the Centre for Communication and Information Literacy,

– Developing a Tourism & Travel Brand in 2023 by Trove Tourism Development Advisors, and

– Digital Marketing for Tourism Businesses by Destination Mekong

– Presentation of the report on ‘Innovate to Compete – Cambodia’s Tourism Insights 2022’ by GIZ.

Three major networking events, including a cocktail reception on the first day and a business matchmaking breakfast and a garden party on the second day, will offer the audience another occasion to enjoy the ‘power of together’ while building promising bridges and exciting connections. The latest line-up of speakers and programs can be found here.

Hosted for the first time in a hybrid format, the Destination Mekong Summit intends to:

· build a smart platform and network to stimulate sustainable tourism recovery across GMS;

· foster synergies and partnerships to position and market the GMS as an attractive, sustainable and inclusive tourism destination;

· To facilitate an innovative framework to share experiences, grassroots solutions, and inspiring stories to help the recovery and resilience of tourism recovery in the GMS;

· To showcase value-added, revenue-generating solutions, projects and programs designed by Destination Mekong and its members and partners.

Catherine Germier-Hamel, CEO of Destination Mekong, highlighted that ‘This 2022 DMS comes at a perfect time when we still have the chance to take stock of the lessons learnt in the past few years, and restart, rethink, and rebalance tourism so that it can truly contribute to inclusive local development and empowerment in the region’.

‘The travel and tourism industry has come in for much criticism in recent years, particularly in terms of its environmental impact, this summit allows us to convey the positive role the industry can play as well as the necessity to promote social and economic sustainability if we are to achieve our environmental sustainability goals’ stressed Mark Jackson, Chair of the Executive Board of Destination Mekong.

‘Responsible tourists are a key player in wildlife conservation and sustainable local livelihood development. Wildlife and local cultures are priceless assets for tourism activities which need to be protected and restored’ said Teak Seng, Country Director of WWF-Cambodia. ‘Cambodia is blessed with rich biodiversity on earth but the nature-based tourism in Cambodia hasn’t reached its full potential at this point due to the limited infrastructure, quality products and services,’ Mr Seng added.

‘Global travel and tourism are making a comeback, but it is important that we don’t revert to old behaviours,” said Jedsada Taweekan, head of WWF-Greater Mekong’s Illegal Wildlife Trade program. ‘The way forward must be green and sustainable, and consider the needs of wildlife and the environment in addition to the needs of travellers. Therefore, working with the travel and tourism sector to encourage tourists to have responsible tourism experiences – at the minimum by refraining from consuming wild animal meat or buying wildlife products as souvenirs – is a small but effective way to promote positive change in tourist behaviour.’

For Gabriela Kühn, Head of the Programme of Child Protection in Travel and Tourism – ECPAT International, ‘Practicing social responsibility and inclusiveness for tourism development can only happen through human rights approach. Actions to address adverse impacts on children’s rights need to be scaled up by governments and companies in cooperation with civil society organizations. The Destination Mekong Summit allows stimulating action of building together sustainable tourism destinations that protect children.’

Registration and details: www.destinationmekong.com/dms22

About Destination Mekong
Launched in 2017, Destination Mekong (DM) is a private tourism board aimed at championing the Geater Mekong Subregion (GMS)* as a united, attractive and sustainable tourism destination creating value, positive impact and opportunities for all. Over the past years, it has spearheaded innovative and inclusive collaboration within the public and private sectors across the six Mekong countries to inspire and engage travellers and stakeholders through authentic experiences and stories.

The core mission of Destination Mekong is to create engaging programs and solutions that build capacity, are inclusive, and promote sustainable economic development and understanding of the diversity and uniqueness of the region, contributing to social equality and poverty reduction.

Endorsed by the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office in Thailand and aligned with the mandate of the regional collaborative tourism framework of the six-member governments of the GMS, Destination Mekong has executed targeted projects and initiatives, including Mekong Moments, Mekong Memories, Mekong Deals, Mekong Mini Movie Festival, Mekong Innovative Start-ups in Tourism (MIST), Experience Mekong Collection, Mekong Heroes, and Mekong Trends, with feedback from the Mekong Tourism Advisory Group (MeTAG) and via a public-private partnership investment structure, led by UNWTO Affiliate Member Chameleon Strategies.

In 2022, Destination Mekong was registered as a full-fledged company in Singapore and Cambodia, operating as a social enterprise.

(*) The Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) comprises Cambodia, PR China (Provinces of Guangxi and Yunnan), Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam.

Brussels, Belgium, December 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As the European Council presents the conclusions of the European Tourism Agenda, UNWTO has joined European Commissioner for Transport Adina Vălean in emphasizing the importance of jobs, education and investments for achieving the shared vision for a revitalized sector between now and 2050.

The conclusions presented by the European Council today are built on several years of work around “Tourism in Europe for the Next Decade.” They inform a new Transition Pathway for Tourism, developed by the European Commission in consultation with key stakeholders, including UNWTO. The Transition Pathway identifies specific intervention areas to boost the tourism eco-system in Europe. Several of the key intervention areas reflect the priorities of UNWTO, most notably a recognition of the importance of building and supporting a skilled and committed workforce.

In a joint statement, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and Commissioner Vălean welcomed the restart of international travel across the region. However, they stress that tourism and transport need to “work together” to address the gap in tourism employment by making both sectors more attractive for workers. Additionally, the joint statement notes the importance of investments in tourism as a means of accelerating the shift to greater resilience and sustainability.

UNWTO has made tourism education and training one of the priorities in recent years. Alongside this, UNWTO opened a first department focused on investments, emphasizing that to achieve its wider goals of becoming more resilient and sustainable, tourism first needs the financial and human capital in place.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Devember 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Red Sea Global, the developer behind two of the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects, The Red Sea and AMAALA, has announced new partnerships with The Ocean Race (TOR) for the next two editions of the Race, and with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) who will amplify their stories around the world.

The Ocean Race has provided the ultimate test for sailing teams since 1973. Known as ‘sailing’s greatest round-the-world challenge’, it is widely recognized as the pinnacle of achievement for sailors across the world, and has created legends of the sport throughout the years.

– New partnership also agreed with Warner Bros. Discovery, the worldwide broadcaster partner of the event, to reach a truly global audience
– Flagship Saudi developer partners with sailing’s greatest round-the-world race to support awareness of global ocean conservation efforts, and create long-term sailing legacy in The Red Sea
– Red Sea Global builds on the Kingdom’s historic relationship with the sea – dating back over 4,000 years to ancient spice trade routes

Beyond the race itself, The Ocean Race acts as a global platform to raise awareness of the environmental challenges facing the world’s marine environment and drive positive change. Over the years, it has brought together like-minded partner organizations from across the globe with a shared vision of protecting and enhancing our oceans, seeking to mobilize policymakers and industries in host countries to take action on an international scale.

“We are proud to become the Regenerative Project Partner of The Ocean Race. Sustainability sits at the very heart of our work at Red Sea Global, so The Ocean Race – and its impressive ambitions when it comes to ocean health – makes them a natural fit as a partner,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.

“The sea has always been an important part of Saudi Arabia’s history and heritage – dating back to the ancient spice trade routes, and creating thriving communities along its coasts. Through this partnership, we hope to support the efforts of The Ocean Race to raise awareness of the challenges facing our oceans globally today, and protect the outstanding beauty of the marine ecosystems in areas such as the Red Sea. At the same time, we want to nurture the next generation of sailors and build a sailing legacy for years to come.”

As partners, Red Sea Global will help promote the race and drive awareness of the importance of ocean health to an international audience. The partnership will see Red Sea Global hold events and educational initiatives, supported by content developed in collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery.

Red Sea Global intends to use its partnership with The Ocean Race to help inspire the next generation of Saudi sailors, promoting a new sport to a Kingdom that has enjoyed a crucial and historic relationship with the sea for over 4,000 years.

The 14th edition of The Ocean Race will start from Alicante, Spain on 15 January 2023, and will finish in Genova, Italy early in the summer of 2023. The race will visit nine iconic cities around the globe over a six-month period (Alicante, Spain – Cabo Verde – Cape Town, South Africa – Itajaí, Brazil – Newport, RI, USA – Aarhus, Denmark – Kiel Fly-By, Germany – The Hague, The Netherlands – Genova, Italy) and will feature a leg with the longest racing distance in the 50-year history of the event; a 12,750 nautical mile, one-month marathon from Cape Town, South Africa to Itajaí, Brazil.

The two fleets of mixed crews on foiling IMOCA and one-design VO65 boats will pass all three great southern Capes – Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn – non-stop, for the first time.

“The Red Sea is a new type of development, and has a vision to prioritize both people and planet based around commitments in support of regenerative tourism. Similarly, this is an innovative new type of partnership for us, where our collaboration with Red Sea Global and Warner Bros. Discovery results in a stronger outcome in pursuit of this goal,” said Johan Salén, The Ocean Race.

“We hope this will become a new template for other partnerships going forward, focusing on collaborations with purpose while taking advantage of the production and distribution power of a worldwide broadcast partner such as Warner Bros. Discovery for the benefit of all involved,” Salén continued.

For its part of the collaboration, Warner Bros. Discovery will harness its content capabilities and global reach to produce a series of short features around the Ocean and travel in the region. The content will air around its live broadcast of The Ocean Race during 2023 and adds to Warner Bros. Discovery’s multi-year race coverage.

“We are proud to be the worldwide broadcaster for The Ocean Race and welcome the opportunity to build on the stories we will tell about sailing’s toughest round the world race with those around the Red Sea Global project, particularly this combined effort to promote ocean health and its wider conservation. Around our race coverage and through our platforms, we have a unique ability to share greater understanding of these stories with a scaled and broad international audience. We look forward to utilising Warner Bros. Discovery’s creative capabilities to further expand awareness of our partner’s goals and initiatives all-year round,” said Mike Rich, Head of Sports Marketing Solutions, Warner Bros. Discovery.

About Red Sea Global
Red Sea Global is a closed joint-stock company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia. RSG is a global multi-project developer, seeking to lead the world towards a more sustainable future, showing how responsible and regenerative development can uplift communities, drive economies, and enhance the environment. The protection of natural capital is central to all development decisions, as the organization seeks to create a better future for all.

A cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambition to diversify its economy, RSG is playing a key role in transforming the nation, by creating exciting opportunities for young Saudi talent and the private sector, as it develops built assets and destinations across multiple sectors that make a positive impact for people and planet.

RSG is the visionary company behind some of the world’s most ambitious development ventures, including luxury regenerative tourism destinations such as The Red Sea and AMAALA.

Across its portfolio, RSG leverages the most innovative concepts, strategies, and technologies to deliver projects that actively enhance the wellbeing of customers, communities, and environments.

About The Ocean Race
The Ocean Race (TOR) has, since 1973, provided the ultimate test of a team and a human adventure like no other. For nearly 50 years, it has kept an almost mythical hold over some of the greatest sailors and been the proving ground for the legends of our sport.

The 14th edition of The Ocean Race will start from Alicante, Spain on 15 January 2023, and will finish in Genova, Italy early in the summer of 2023. The race will visit nine iconic cities around the globe over a six-month period (Alicante, Spain – Cabo Verde – Cape Town, South Africa - Itajaí, Brazil – Newport, RI, USA – Aarhus, Denmark – Kiel Fly-By, Germany – The Hague, The Netherlands – Genova, Italy) and will feature a leg with the longest racing distance in the 50-year history of the event – a 12,750 nautical mile, one-month marathon from Cape Town, South Africa to Itajaí, Brazil. The two fleets of mixed crews on foiling IMOCA and one-design VO65 boats will pass all three great southern Capes – Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn – non-stop, for the first time.

The Ocean Race has a proven commitment to sustainability, and with the support and collaboration of 11th Hour Racing, Founding Partner of the Race Sustainability Programme and Premier Partner of The Ocean Race, is inspiring action and creating tangible outcomes.

Building upon an award-winning legacy in sustainability, the Race’s innovative Racing With Purpose programme is acting as a catalyst for positive change and accelerating the application of innovative solutions to help restore ocean health.

About Warner Bros. Discovery
Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ: WBD) is a leading global media and entertainment company that creates and distributes the world’s most differentiated and complete portfolio of content and brands across television, film and streaming. Available in more than 220 countries and territories and 50 languages, Warner Bros. Discovery inspires, informs and entertains audiences worldwide through its iconic brands and products including: Discovery Channel, discovery+, CNN, DC, Eurosport, HBO, HBO Max, HGTV, Food Network, OWN, Investigation Discovery, TLC, Magnolia Network, TNT, TBS, truTV, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, Warner Bros. Film Group, Warner Bros. Television Group, Warner Bros. Games, New Line Cinema, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies, Discovery en Español, Hogar de

Dubai, UAE, December 1, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / dusitD2 Kenz Hotel picks up ‘Best Business Hotel’ accolade while Dusit Princess Residences Dubai is named ‘Best Serviced Apartment. Dusit Hotels and Resorts under Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has continued its winning streak this awards season, with two of its Dubai-based properties picking up an accolade each at the prestigious Arabian Travel Awards 2022.

• Discover Dubai and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

Based on online votes from the public, dusitD2 Kenz Hotel Dubai came out top in the ‘Best Business Hotel’ category, while Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai was crowned ‘Best Serviced Apartment.’

A vibrant four-star hotel in the heart of the city’s thriving Barsha Heights business district, the contemporary dusitD2 Kenz Hotel Dubai is one of the city’s top-rated hotels – consistently maintaining high reviews and ratings across all major platforms. It also recently received three TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards for its impressive stay experience and two distinctive restaurants – Wise Kwai Thai Restaurant and Mediterranean-themed Ostro Restaurant and Café.

Comprising 237 guest rooms, dusitD2 Kenz Hotel Dubai also features a fully equipped fitness centre, a Thai-inspired spa, and a large rooftop pool. Ensuring guests can get things done between explorations, it also offers four different work and meeting spaces. Each is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, including interactive touch screens and sound systems, ideal for presentations and brainstorming sessions.

The four-star Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai, meanwhile, is located at the prestigious Dubai Marina within easy reach of the beach and major attractions and services. Offering all the conveniences of a residence and the advantages of a full-service hotel, the property features a range of spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom luxury apartments, holiday homes, and residential units, each with ample living space and well-equipped kitchenettes. A swimming pool, fitness centre, steam rooms, and a restaurant that specialises in nutritious and organic food options, are among the facilities. Housekeeping service is available 24/7.

Alongside Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, guests at both properties also benefit from a wide range of memorable and meaningful experiences created in line with the four new pillars of Dusit Graciousness – Service (personalised and gracious), Well-Being (delivering wellness experiences beyond the spa), Locality (uniquely linking guests with the local community), and Sustainability (social, economic, and environmental).

Winners of the Arabian Travel Awards 2022 were announced during a gala ceremony held at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. Key industry players from the Middle East gathered to mark the occasion, celebrate the resiliency of hotel and tourism operators, and look forward to a more sustainable future.

Following the gala dinner, Mr Bassam Zakaria, Cluster General Manager of dusitD2 Kenz Hotel and Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai, said, “We are honoured and grateful to receive these awards, which are a testament to our passionate pursuit of excellence at each of our properties. We are delighted to deliver Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality in Dubai, and we look forward to providing even more outstanding services and transformative experiences for our esteemed guests and customers in the exciting months and years ahead.”

• Discover Dubai and the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at TOP25Hotels.com

About dusitD2 Kenz Hotel
dusitD2 Kenz Hotel, a 4-star property located in Barsha Heights, offers 237 contemporary rooms and suites. The alcohol-free property features Mediterranean and Thai restaurants, a swimming pool, a health and fitness centre, a business centre, and meeting rooms. dusitD2 Kenz Hotel is a short walk from Dubai Internet City Metro Station and offers easy access to Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, and many other key attractions.

About Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai Marina
Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai Marina is a collection of spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments perfectly situated on the boardwalk of Dubai Marina with great views. Well connected to Dubai Marina Promenade, the property is close to Bluewaters Island, The Beach, and numerous shopping malls and restaurants. JBR walk is just minutes away.

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: hotels and resorts, hospitality education, food, property development, and hospitality-related services.

The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of six brands (Dusit Thani, Dusit Devarana, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 16 countries worldwide. The group also operates culinary schools and hospitality colleges in Thailand, plus catering companies for the education sector in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November 30, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO has returned to Riyadh to serve as a bridge between public and private leaders as tourism faces up to big challenges of today: high inflation, geopolitical insecurity and the climate emergency.

At the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit, taking place this week in the Saudi capital, UNWTO stressed the vital importance of education and investments as twin factors in ensuring tourism fulfils its enormous potential as a driver of sustainable and inclusive development. The high-level participation of UNWTO in this leading private sector forum further highlighted the Organization’s unique and natural ability to connect political ambitions and private sector capacity.

Education: An Investment in Tourism’s Future

This year, we brought tourism to the UN General Assembly for the first time and we have also put tourism on the G20 agenda

Speaking before the Summit’s two main events, the Global Leaders’ Dialogue and the Summit’s Opening Panel, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “This year, we brought tourism to the UN General Assembly for the first time and we have also put tourism on the G20 agenda”, adding “that is why I am here: UNWTO can be your voice at the global governance level”.

Carrying forward the momentum of key events held during 2022, including World Tourism Day in Bali, the Ministers’ Summit at World Travel Market in London and, most recently, the UNWTO Executive Council meeting in Marrakesh, the WTTC Summit provided the latest high-level platform for UNWTO to advance its priorities of growing investments in tourism and promoting tourism education and training. As Mr Pololikasvili told participants, skills development is “an investment in the future, to build the tourism sector we need.”

A Vision for Tourism

Against the backdrop of the WTTC Summit, UNWTO invited all high-level delegates to return to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2023 for the official World Tourism Day celebrations (27 September), to be held around the theme of ‘Green Investments’. The hosting of the international day for the sector will further advance the Kingdom’s ambition to become a top emerging destination.

The Kingdom is a strong supporter of UNWTO’s mission to make tourism a driver of sustainable and inclusive development. UNWTO opened its first Regional Office for the Middle East in May 2021 in Riyadh. Built in record time and during a pandemic, the office is set to become a regional and global hub of tourism education and training as well as of tourism for rural development.

Bangkok, Thailand, November 29, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Signature Bangkok announced its 1-Michelin Star, awarded by Michelin Guide. Lead by former 2-Michelin star Chef Thierry Drapeau, Signature Bangkok presents innovative modern French and “floral cuisine”. Delicate flowers, herbs and exceptionally fresh, seasonal ingredients from land and sea are hallmarks of Chef Thierry’s floral tasting menu.

• Discover gastronomy destination Bangkok and World’s Best Restaurants for Fine Dining at TOP25Restaurants.com

Signature Bangkok is located on the 11th floor of VIE Hotel Bangkok – MGallery, a cosmopolitan 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of the city. The dining room soars above Bangkok skyline, offering panoramic views of one of Asia’s most exciting cities. Art deco interiors, plush velvet textiles, luxe carpets and a bold colour palette evoke classic elegance, while the floor to ceiling glass windows and burnished bronze fittings keep the mood hip and modern.

Signature Bangkok’s current Winter Menu features 5- and 8-course options, and a 5-course vegetarian menu is available. Serves dinner from Tuesday to Sunday and is limited to 30 guests per evening.

Signature Bangkok is the only modern French and “floral cuisine” restaurant in Bangkok. Edible flowers and herbs are used both artistically and to add flavour dimensions. Floral cuisine is a creative extension of Chef Thierry’s “cuisine of the soil” approach, wherein each ingredient is sourced with integrity and reflects “terroir”, or a sense of place.

Chef Thierry follows a jus-based approach which highlights the natural flavours of poultry, meats and fish. Preferring to avoid excessive use of butter and spices, Chef Thierry relies on Thailand’s bounty of rare, beautiful edible flowers and delicate herbs to enhance flavour. The result is creative, beautiful French cuisine that is light, expressive and approachable.

Chef Thierry is deeply committed to sourcing from farmers, fishermen and purveyors he knows and who share his philosophy. For instance, guests will consistently see mention of Laurent Daniel, a long-time friend of the Chef and a trusted source for the freshest fish and langoustines from the Atlantic.

Signature Bangkok and Chef Thierry are committed to demystifying the formality of French and Michelin dining by keeping the experience approachable and in-step with Thai culture of enjoying relaxed meals in beautiful settings.

Taking cue from the theatre, where stories are told before a live audience, Signature Bangkok’s kitchen opens out to the dining room, much like a stage in a theatre. Guests are encouraged to engage with the culinary team and to witness epicurean craftsmanship taking shape.

Guests begin their culinary journey in Signature Bangkok’s plush, velvet draped, live piano lounge where they are greeted with appetisers paired with aperitifs, champagne and sparkling wines. The main meal unfolds in the restaurant’s dining room overlooking the Bangkok skyline, with a choice of a 5- or 8-course Chef’s Menu.

Signature Bangkok’s cellar features wines from around the world, including Bangkok’s best collection of biodynamic wines handpicked from boutique vintners.

Signature Bangkok is currently offering its seasonal winter menu. Available in 5- and 8-course options, the Winter Menu is inspired by the season’s festive spirit. Cosy, chilling nights around the fire, nostalgic memories and the gathering of families and friends inform the choice of ingredients.

Presentations feature fresh flowers and herbs from the restaurant’s on-site garden, as well as seasonal delicacies imported from artisanal suppliers in France’s Loire Valley and Chiang Mai contribute seasonal flavours and dimension. Flowers and herbs like marguerite or the daisy, coriander, fennel and cosmos make unexpected and charming appearances throughout the meal.

A native of the Loire Valley, Chef Thierry has established strong relationships with farmers, fishermen and vineyards in the region. Additionally, he works closely with Jacques Cavin, an organic farmer in Chiang Mai northern hills. The high elevation and low temperatures at Jacques Cavin’s farm are ideal for growing winter vegetables and flowers, many of which are cultivated specially for Signature Bangkok.

Highlights include ‘La Mer’, wherein Chef Thierry serves fresh Loire River fish from Laurent Daniel, his preferred fishing supplier in northern France. Steamed “en papillote”, the fish is incredibly moist and flavourful. Fennel flowers contribute mild anise and licorice notes. The course is presented tableside, where it is unwrapped like a Christmas present.

In ‘Le Pigeon’, Chef Thierry showcases young squab roasted en jus with spelt and black sesame sauce. The preparation is finished with ‘red shiso’ leaves which contribute mild citrusy flavour, with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and mint.

‘Le Fromage’ includes an array of goat cheeses like Crottin de Chavignol Les, Pouligny Saint Pierre, Valencay, each with distinctive terroirs and AOC appellations. The cheeses are sourced from Les Freres Marchand, one the Loire Valley’s most respected artisanal cheesemakers.

For the dessert course, Chef Thierry presents Mille Feuille, a classic French dessert. Served warm, it is made from a recipe Chef Thierry learned 30+ years ago at Restaurant Gilles. Chef Thierry will adjust the dessert course each evening, to suit the mood and availability of herbs and spices. Surprise and playfulness are integral to the Chef’s approach!

The 8-course menu begins with an Amuse Bouche, followed by Le Ferme, La Mer (fish), Le Pigeon), Le Fromage (cheese) & Plaisairs Sucré (dessert), along with amuse bouche and palette cleansing courses. The 5-course menu is similar, although guests can select either the La Mer or Le Pigeon course. Vegetarian options are available

• Discover gastronomy destination Bangkok and World’s Best Restaurants for Fine Dining at TOP25Restaurants.com

About Signature Bangkok
Signature Bangkok presents the city’s first modern French and floral cuisine. Under the direction of Executive Chef former 2-Michelin star Chef Thierry Drapeau, Signature Bangkok elevates French and Michelin-calibre gastronomy while keeping it approachable and in-step with Thai culinary culture of enjoying relaxed meals in beautiful settings. The meal unfolds in an open kitchen, where guests can interact with the Chef as he prepares the meal, adding an element of theatre to the experience. Signature Bangkok is located on the 11th floor of 5-star VIE Hotel Bangkok next to the BTS SkyTrain Ratchathewi station.

About Executive Chef Thierry Drapeau
Prior to opening Signature Bangkok, Chef Thierry helmed the 2-Michelin star Thierry Drapeau Logis de la Chabotterie in Saint-Sulpice-le-Verdon, Loire Valley. Presenting “cuisine of the soil” with floral elements, the restaurant held on to its 2-Michelin star status for nine consecutive years, an outstanding achievement that is claimed by only a few chefs in the world. After 15 years of perfecting and evolving his craft, Chef Thierry set his eyes east towards Asia for his next culinary undertaking.

Originally from Nantes in the Loire Valley, a region renowned for its cuisine and its wines, Chef Thierry was inspired by the French tradition of home-cooked Sunday meals. Chef Thierry understood early on that the best meals are built around the art and joy of cooking, selecting the finest ingredients and sharing a meal with family and friends. This understanding guides Signature Bangkok’s dining experience, at once rare and beautiful yet absolutely relaxed and approachable.

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, INK Hotel Amsterdam, Santa Teresa Hotel Rio de Janeiro, Hotel Lindrum Melbourne in Australia, Muse Bangkok Langsuan in Thailand, and Hotel des Arts Saigon in Vietnam. MGallery Hotel Collection is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,300 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

Madrid, Spain, November 29, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and the Comunidad de Madrid have teamed up to bring together the world’s leading experts in cultural tourism.

Around 20 international professionals will meet in Madrid between 30 November-2 December to share ideas, debate and explore the challenges and trends to boost cultural tourism. They will also draw up conclusions and set out their recommendations for cultural and tourism destination managers, all of which will be presented in a report next January at the International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR).

The rise of cultural tourism has led to a number of challenges for destinations, all of which will be addressed in the Madrid meeting. Experts will also examine the growing importance of a holistic tourist-cultural experience, recognizing that a visit to a museum, monument or show does not begin at the entrance door, but is the responsibility of a destination’s entire tourism system. The role of tourism promotion, cooperation with the private sector, the appropriation of cultural resources and the fragility of the intangible will also be discussed.

Recognizing tangible and intangible values

Ion Vilcu, Director of the UNWTO Affiliate Members Department, stresses the importance of this conversation because “the focus is often placed on tangible cultural heritage, and intangible cultural values remain in the background, even when they inherent to the tangible ones. However, the intangible is an important attraction for visitors, precisely because of its unique, exotic, intangible and, in many cases, ephemeral nature.”

As such, aspects such as gastronomy, handicrafts, forms of production, folklore, linguistic heritage, among others, are important cultural resources for destinations, which, without sustainable management, can easily become blurred or even distorted.

Madrid tourism returns

The Comunidad de Madrid formalized its accession to the UNWTO as an Affiliate Member in 2021, through the public entity for the management and promotion of Madrid’s tourism sector Madrid Cultura y Turismo SAU. This global meeting, in addition to deepening the needs of cultural tourism, will help to project the region internationally as a tourist destination, recognizing the specific weight that Madrid’s culture represents in attracting tourists from all corners of the planet. It will also strengthen the image of the Community of Madrid and contribute to consolidating the recovery of the tourism sector which, according to the latest official data, by July of this year had recovered 100% of international visitors compared to the same period in 2019.