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    The Caribbean Travel Forum a new event for CHTA now in its second year takes place on May 9, 2023

    The Caribbean Travel Forum a new event for CHTA now in its second year and will take place on May 9, 2023. It will focus on the business of tourism in the Caribbean with specific topics such as multi-destination marketing, intra-Caribbean travel with emphasis on air connectivity, sustainability, technology innovation, labor market, taxation and linkages.Captains of the travel industry, general managers, thought leaders and government officials will provide insightful and relevant information to the Caribbean Travel Industry including sharing global and regional travel industry data insight, as well as consumer and travel trends.
    The keynote address will outline the important of the Travel and Tourism industry as one of the world’s largest economic sectors by international recognized tourism research body and will include industry trends and growth sectors.
    The forum will kick off The State of the Regional Industry address by CHTA President, Nicola Madden-Greig, followed by a Keynote speaker then the CHTA Awards lunch to honor the CHTA Hotelier of the Year as well as the Destination Resilience Award.
    LOCATION: Sandals Royal Barbados
    A Private – Public Partnership discussion panel will discuss the most important issues to ensure Caribbean tourism remains the #1 warm weather destination while addressing some of the major potential headwinds.  This panel will include discussion on Multi-destination marketing, Intra-Caribbean travel with emphasis on air connectivity, new markets, public and private sector policies.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Wynn Al Marjan Island unveils design vision; resort to be new architectural landmark in the UAE

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    Arabian Travel Market to welcome over 2,000 exhibitors More

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    Wynn Al Marjan Island unveils design vision; resort to be new architectural landmark in the UAE

    Wynn Resorts, Limited has announced the name of its new multi-billion-dollar integrated resort, debuting in Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE): Wynn Al Marjan Island. The Company also unveiled the design vision of its first-ever beachfront resort, which is inspired by the tranquil seascape of Al Marjan Island, a group of four islands. The resort is being developed with local partners Marjan LLC, and RAK Hospitality Holding LLC.
    Set in a pristine setting overlooking the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, Wynn Al Marjan Island rises more than 1,000 feet (305 meters) above the sea, welcoming visitors to a premium luxury experience, including exceptional entertainment and gaming amenities. For its first project in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region, the US-listed developer and luxury resort operator will create a serene and stylish setting that takes inspiration from the stunning sea views and brings the warm, relaxed ocean setting into its modern world-class hotel.
    With an estimated project cost of approximately USD 3.9 billion, the iconic silhouette of Wynn Al Marjan Island will transform and accelerate the Emirate’s rise as a major global tourist destination, while also creating substantial value to its economy through tourism and job creation. The project will pave the way for the accelerated growth of allied business sectors. Foundation construction work began onsite earlier this year.
    The brand’s signature, high-design opulence will be reflected in its approximately 1,500 lavishly styled rooms, suites and villas. Visitors can look forward to a wide array of entertainment options, a gaming area, 24 dining and lounge experiences, innovative spa and wellness experiences, a high-end shopping esplanade, a state-of-the-art events center, a theater hosting a unique production show, and other amenities. Designed for both longer visits and day trips from neighboring Emirates, the resort will offer abundant and layered experiences including nightly state-of-the-art laser and light shows.
    ADVERTISEMENTThe design of Wynn Al Marjan Island takes its inspiration both from the natural landscape surrounding the resort and the leading design aesthetic of Wynn Resorts. The same geometric configuration of the curved shape of the beach on the island is echoed through the podium structure, similar to a great opera house, creating majestic views of the beach, sea and the horizon. Every diner in the abundant restaurant offerings lining the beach-facing promenade at Wynn Al Marjan Island will enjoy sweeping views of the sea.
    “We have spent the past year meticulously programming and concepting Wynn Al Marjan Island, carefully considering its unique location,” said Craig Billings, CEO of Wynn Resorts, “I am incredibly proud of our design and development team’s ability to impart our legacy of rich, thoughtful design into a sun-soaked beachside resort that will delight customers, new and old.  We look forward to opening Wynn Al Marjan Island in early 2027.”
    The new resort on Al Marjan Island, a flagship development of Marjan, highlights Ras Al Khaimah’s growing global reputation as a leading investment destination for high-quality hospitality projects. With a rapidly growing portfolio of luxury five-star hotels and residential developments that offer a wide range of amenities and services and boasting over 7.8 kilometers of sparkling beaches and twenty-three kilometers of waterfront, Al Marjan Island is today seamlessly transitioning into a world-class resort destination.
    Positioning itself as a sustainable and nature-based destination, Ras Al Khaimah is one of the fastest growing tourism markets in the MENA region. With its well- preserved history, rich archaeological heritage, and nature tourism offerings, the Emirate earned a place on the list of CNN Travel’s best 50 destinations to visit in 2023 and featured on TIME magazine’s World’s Greatest Places in 2022.

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    Boeing Expands ecoDemonstrator Flight Testing with ‘Explorer’ Airplanes

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    The Caribbean Travel Forum a new event for CHTA now in its second year takes place on May 9, 2023 More

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    Boeing Expands ecoDemonstrator Flight Testing with ‘Explorer’ Airplanes

    Boeing is expanding its ecoDemonstrator program to include “Explorer” platforms that will focus on short-term testing of a specific technology. The first Boeing ecoDemonstrator Explorer, a Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, will participate in an operational efficiency exercise in June 2023.
    Boeing is expanding its ecoDemonstrator flight-test program to further accelerate innovation for sustainability and safety. The company today announced its 2023 plan to assess 19 technologies on the Boeing 777 ecoDemonstrator, while also adding “Explorer” airplanes that will focus tests on specific technologies.
    The first ecoDemonstrator Explorer, a 787-10 Dreamliner, will conduct flight tests in June from Seattle to Tokyo, Singapore and Bangkok to demonstrate how coordinating navigation across global airspace jurisdictions can improve operational efficiency, which can reduce an airplane’s fuel use and emissions by up to 10%. Utilizing today’s onboard capabilities, Boeing and air navigation service providers (ANSPs) in the U.S., Japan, Singapore and Thailand will collectively sequence the airplane’s routes to achieve the optimal flight path across multiple regions, factoring in conditions such as weather, air traffic and airspace closures. The airplane will fly on the highest available blend of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at each location.
    “To support our industry’s goal for net zero carbon emissions by 2050, Boeing is expanding our ecoDemonstrator program with Explorer airplanes to test even more sustainability-focused technologies,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We continue to invest in innovation that reduces fuel use, emissions and noise on our products and to partner with governments and industry to make progress on sustainability during each phase of flight.”
    “The industry will need continued fleet renewal, efficiency gains, renewable energy carriers such as sustainable aviation fuel and advanced technology to meet the civil aviation industry’s commitment to achieve net zero carbon emission by 2050,” said Boeing Chief Sustainability Officer Chris Raymond. “Our initial Explorer testing in partnership with aviation stakeholders in four countries is a great example of how we can work together to optimize operational efficiency and reduce emissions.”
    In 2023, Boeing also will use its current flagship ecoDemonstrator airplane, a 777-200ER (Extended Range), to test 19 technologies including:ADVERTISEMENTSustainable wall panels in the cargo hold that are made of 40% recycled carbon fiber and 60% resin made from a bio-based feedstockA fiber optic fuel quantity sensor compatible with 100% SAFAn Electronic Flight Bag application featuring Smart Airport Maps, a component of Jeppesen FliteDeck Pro, which reduces operational costs and supports safe taxi operations with the depiction of contextual airport dataFor all flight tests, the airplane will fly on the highest available blend of SAF locallySince its initial flights in 2012, the Boeing ecoDemonstrator program has accelerated innovation by taking new technologies out of the lab and testing them in an operational environment. Including the 2023 plan, the program will have tested about 250 technologies to help decarbonize aviation, improve operational efficiency and enhance safety and the passenger experience. Approximately a third of tested technologies have progressed onto Boeing’s products and services.
    More information about the 2023 ecoDemonstrator and previous ecoDemonstrator airplanes is available at boeing.com/ecoDemonstrator. Boeing’s sustainability commitments, partnerships and efforts are available at https://www.boeing.com/principles/sustainability.

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    Four Seasons Continues Middle Eastern Expansion with Island Resort on Sindalah in NEOM, Saudi Arabia

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    Wynn Al Marjan Island unveils design vision; resort to be new architectural landmark in the UAE More

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    Four Seasons Continues Middle Eastern Expansion with Island Resort on Sindalah in NEOM, Saudi Arabia

    Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the world’s leading luxury hospitality company, and Hotel Development, the NEOM division that is responsible for building a future-centric hospitality ecosystem in the developing region, have announced plans for a new luxury resort as part of the NEOM master project, located on Sindalah Island.Extending over an area of approximately 840,000 square metres (9,041,684 square feet), Sindalah is one of a group of islands in the Red Sea that will be developed in NEOM, each according to its unique vision and design. In addition to the upcoming Four Seasons resort, Sindalah will be home to a luxury marina and yacht club, 9-hole golf course with 18 pin experiences and a vast array of dining destinations. It will also host sophisticated cultural events, grand sporting spectacles and glamorous social celebrations throughout the year.
    “Four Seasons upcoming resort in NEOM will be a one-of-a-kind project, blending the natural wonders of the Red Sea with the future-forward technologies on which this new, exciting destination is being built,” says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development and Portfolio Management, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “We are proud to be part of the ambitious vision that our partners at NEOM have for transforming the future of hospitality in the region and look forward to welcoming guests to discover a new part of the Kingdom.”
    The Resort will feature 225 guest rooms and suites with terraces overlooking the beaches of the Red Sea, as well as 52 villas with one to four-bedroom configurations with plunge pools and beach views, and with the Presidential and Royal Villas offering private swimming pools, gyms and access to private yacht docks. The Resort architecture is being led by LUCA DINI Design & Architecture, with interiors for guest rooms and public areas by RBTA and LW Design respectively.
    “Sindalah follows NEOM’s vision and purpose of mitigating the impact of unchecked urban development, while protecting and regenerating the rich natural capital of the region. In terms of hospitality, our goal is to shape a new frontier for the industry, and Four Seasons is the perfect partner to work alongside towards this,” says Chris Newman, Executive Director, Hotel Development at NEOM. “While NEOM will have something for every kind of traveller, the Resort on Sindalah will be perfect for those looking to rest, relax and explore in the beautiful setting of the Red Sea, while enjoying the service that Four Seasons has built an incredible global reputation on.”
    ADVERTISEMENTWhile visiting the Resort, guests can choose from four unique culinary experiences, as well as several lounges, in addition to the other dining options on Sindalah. Four Seasons will also offer an expansive spa experience with varying treatment rooms, relaxation lounges, a hammam and vitality pool. For those looking for an active getaway, guests will have access to a fitness centre, multiple indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of water activities such as water skiing, kite surfing, windsurfing and more. An onsite diving centre will allow guests to explore one of the world’s most sought-after diving destinations and discover the abundant marine life and ecosystems that exist within the Red Sea.

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    Now Open: Nobu Residences Los Cabos, A New Hospitality Concept at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos

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    Boeing Expands ecoDemonstrator Flight Testing with ‘Explorer’ Airplanes More

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    ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS TO DEBUT IN THE MALDIVES WITH ROSEWOOD RANFARU

    One of the most coveted island destinations on the planet, the Maldives is considered by many to be the ultimate luxury wanderlust experience. This picturesque archipelago boasts bright white sands, warm calm waters and a standard of hospitality that is second to none. Now, having achieved worldwide recognition as a preeminent tropical paradise, the Maldives is looking toward the future with an eye on longevity and sustainability, making the destination a natural fit for the unique approach to luxury lifestyle offered by Rosewood Hotels & Resorts®. Rosewood Ranfaru, opening on the islands in 2027, is the latest development in the discerning brand’s thoughtful growth pipeline. The resort will reflect Rosewood’s guiding A Sense of Place® philosophy through a highly curated experience that emphasizes privacy, luxury, and a connection to the natural habitat.
    Stretched across a striking chain of private islands around a pristine lagoon in the South Male Atoll, Rosewood Ranfaru will be situated less than an hour away from Velana International Airport in Male. From touchdown to toes in the sand, guests will be able to make the journey to the resort via either a 35-minute yacht ride or a ten-minute seaplane hop. Both experiences will exude the same level of luxury that awaits on the property’s shores. Upon arrival to the resort, travelers will be met with endless opportunity to embark on truly restorative getaways, all surrounded by stunning views of the world’s most beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Developed by Estithmar Holding, this project represents the next generation of Maldives tourism and elevates the overall luxury offerings available in this sublime corner of the globe.
    “The Maldives has its own mystique and allure,” says Radha Arora, President of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. “Given its well-earned reputation as a haven for discerning travelers, we are excited to bring our unique brand of lifestyle and hospitality to this chain of islands. We are confident that through our commitment to immersive amenities, world-class design, and high-touch service, Rosewood will be able to offer the next iteration of Maldivian paradise.”
    Rosewood Ranfaru will offer approximately 120 beachfront and overwater villas, ranging in size from one- to five-bedrooms, all with private pools and a select number located on private islands. In true Rosewood fashion, unsurpassed service and amenities will be central to the guest experience, including a Rosewood Explorer’s Club to spark discovery and inspire imagination among the youngest visitors. At the heart of the property will lie several specialty restaurants, a beach club, and an Asaya® well-being facility and fitness center, together offering a holistic wellness escape. A true leisure oasis, Rosewood Ranfaru will also feature numerous swimming pools, both for adults and families; paddle courts, and an array of water sports that will allow guests to fully explore the peaceful and crystal-clear waters of the encircling lagoon.
    “I am delighted to announce our latest investment in the Maldives, a destination that offers unparalleled beauty and a vibrant culture, making it one of the most attractive tourist spots in the world,” says Moutaz AlKhayyat, Chairman of Estithmar Holding. “We believe that the Maldives is an ideal location for investment and tourism, and it continues to attract visitors and investors from around the world with its friendly atmosphere and supportive government policies. Our new resort development aligns perfectly with our company’s vision and growth plans, and we are excited about the prospect of expanding our portfolio of luxury travel destinations.”ADVERTISEMENTRosewood Ranfaru’s world-class team of associates will leverage their rich understanding of the destination to create a highly curated menu of on- and off-property experiences designed to truly immerse guests into their surroundings. Their guiding mission will be to showcase the undiscovered sides of this island paradise.

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    Travel Leaders of Tomorrow Celebrates 10 Years

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    Now Open: Nobu Residences Los Cabos, A New Hospitality Concept at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos More

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    Travel Leaders of Tomorrow Celebrates 10 Years

    Travel Leaders of Tomorrow, the award-winning training program for new travel advisors, is celebrating its first decade in business. Started on April 13, 2013, Travel Leaders of Tomorrow represented a solution to the growing problem of bringing fresh talent into the industry with the absence of the traditional travel school.As a completely virtual program, Travel Leaders of Tomorrow is uniquely designed for today’s busy adults who frequently have work and family obligations. Participants can choose between an Independent Learner track, which is completely self-paced, and a Virtual Campus, which includes a study cohort, guest lectures and a final business presentation.
    “As we looked around the landscape of the industry in the 2010s, it became clear that we desperately needed the ideas and perspectives that new travel advisors bring,” said Heather Kindred, Program Director of Travel Leaders of Tomorrow. “The entire travel advisor profession benefits from that, but despite the allure of a career in travel, interested people didn’t know how to actually get going. We developed Travel Leaders of Tomorrow to teach not only the basics of travel, but how to sell effectively and how to be a true partner to clients. Our curriculum has allowed people to start their career as they see fit, whether that is full-time, part-time, as an agency owner or as an independent contractor. Over the last decade, our team has watched thousands of travel advisors dive into entrepreneurship and develop lucrative, thriving businesses. We are excited to watch what our participants do in the next decade.”
    Since its first student, Travel Leaders of Tomorrow has had more than 2,200 people go through its programs. Although the program is an initiative of Internova Travel Group, one of the largest travel services companies in the industry, participants are free to choose to join any host or consortia after they complete their studies.
    Travel Leaders of Tomorrow has also opened its curriculum to American and Canadian military veterans and spouses with the Nexion Veterans in Travel scholarship program. Participants go through the Virtual Campus track and then join premier host travel agency Nexion Travel Group as members.
    Savannah Hill completed Travel Leaders of Tomorrow in 2016. Since that time, she has been named to her host agency’s top producer award numerous times and was awarded the Rising Star Award very early in her career. “Travel Leaders of Tomorrow has led me to an incredible career,” Hill said. “Owning my own travel agency is a dream come true, and without Travel Leaders of Tomorrow, it wouldn’t have happened. The program worked with me to develop my skills so that I could be confident in my new career. Travel Leaders of Tomorrow is where it all started and I am so grateful I found it.”ADVERTISEMENTAs part of the celebration of its first decade, Travel Leaders of Tomorrow will be revamping its curriculum in 2023, including a new focus on corporate travel.
    “The best is yet to come for Travel Leaders of Tomorrow,” Kindred said. “Travel advisors are thriving, our cohorts are consistently full, and our industry is strong. And we’ll be there every step of the way, continuing to improve and refine Travel Leaders of Tomorrow to serve tomorrow’s advisors.”
    To learn more about becoming a travel advisor, visit www.TravelLeadersofTomorrow.com

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    Sleep Inn Previews Next-Generation Prototype Emphasizing Modern Design and Guest Wellbeing

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    ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS TO DEBUT IN THE MALDIVES WITH ROSEWOOD RANFARU More

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    Sleep Inn Previews Next-Generation Prototype Emphasizing Modern Design and Guest Wellbeing

    Sleep Inn Exterior Prototype.
    Sleep Inn, a leading new construction midscale brand from Choice Hotels International, Inc. known for its stylish, nature-inspired design and cost-effective operating model, is getting a new look following the debut of the brand’s next-generation prototype, expected to be completed and rolled out by the end of 2023.Announced during Choice Hotels’ 67th Annual Convention to provide developers with a sneak-peek of what they can expect from the modern, design-forward prototype, the new hotel option underscores the company’s’ commitment to continually innovating new products that resonate with travelers – and owners – of today and tomorrow.“No one is more intentional in their approach to design and development than Choice Hotels. We make sure that when we introduce a new concept, it not only stands the test of time but helps deliver noticeable results to our owners’ bottom lines and guest satisfaction scores, and the next generation of Sleep Inn is no exception,” said David Pepper, chief development officer, Choice Hotels. “The new look builds on the strong value proposition developers expect from Sleep Inn to maintain the segment’s lowest build and operating costs, while honing in on the brand’s inviting, wellness-focused elements that help modern travelers get a great night’s rest. It’s the perfect fit for growth-minded owners looking to seize opportunities in the popular midscale segment with a product proven to appeal to guests’ needs and senses.”
    The new construction prototype was developed to be cost-neutral for prospective developers, and in early testing increased guests’ likeliness to stay with the brand by an average of 25%. Underscoring its appeal to owners and guests alike, the new design package will continue to feature the Sleep Inn brand’s key hallmarks, such as each property’s signature exterior purple tower and soothing, nature-inspired design, while incorporating several additional signature amenities to enhance guests’ stay experience, including:
    Expanded wellness offerings, including water refill stations and fitness centers newly equipped with kettlebells, exercise bands, yoga mats and designated stretching areas. Guests checking in during the evening can now also take advantage of the brand’s new pilot offering at select properties, the NightFood Cookie, a free snack packed with protein, fiber and less sugar, so it won’t keep travelers up at night like a traditional dessert. In addition, Sleep Inn recently teamed with AllTrails, the world’s largest digital guidebook for outdoor activities, to curate a list of nearby hiking trails at participating hotels for guests.  Modernized guestrooms, featuring increased functional spaces, light dimming and smart thermostat capabilities, as well as soothing colors, regional artwork, linens and furnishings, designed to appeal to all five senses for a better night’s rest and relaxing stay.Stylishly designed open and airy lobbies, with tall windows to allow in more natural light and signature murals to keep within the nature theme.New-and-improved breakfast areas with the ability to be zoned into three distinct areas to suit guests’ needs, including a game room, TV room and flexible workspace.Designated outdoor spaces to enhance guests’ ability to connect with nature throughout every touchpoint.“Midscale travelers want convenient, stylish accommodations without sacrificing value and access to modern amenities while on the road, which is why Sleep Inn has remained a guest favorite since we debuted the Designed to Dream prototype more than 13 years ago,” said Cathy Hartman, vice president, brand strategy, Choice Hotels. “This evolved look and feel stays true to the brand’s founding philosophy by taking inspiration from nature to help guests relax, recharge and reconnect with what matters most. We also look forward to delighting guests with a suite of new wellness offerings to elevate and differentiate their travel experience.”
    There are currently more than 530 Sleep Inn hotels open or in the pipeline across the U.S. For more information and updates on Sleep Inn’s new prototype, visit choicehotelsdevelopment.com/brands/sleepinn. 
    Sleep Inn® Dream Better Here®Every Sleep Inn hotel offers a simply stylish stay that’s designed to help our guests Dream Better Here. You’ll find fresh, nature-inspired design elements that are modern but timeless, that create a relaxed and serene environment. A new-construction brand, every Sleep Inn hotel is built with a specific vision in mind—to be a sanctuary for travelers as well as an efficient property to build, operate, and maintain. Franchised by global lodging leader Choice Hotels, Sleep Inn properties boast strong product consistency and an established presence in the midscale hotel segment with more than 530 Sleep Inn properties open or in the pipeline worldwide. All Sleep Inn hotels include free Wi-Fi, complimentary hot and cold breakfast options, a swimming pool and/or fitness center. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com/sleep-inn.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Partners with Sandals Emerald Bay, Exuma for Live Radio Broadcasts

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    Travel Leaders of Tomorrow Celebrates 10 Years More

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    Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Partners with Sandals Emerald Bay, Exuma for Live Radio Broadcasts

    Approximately 3 million radio listeners, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter users across key markets in North America were reached when The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA) recently partnered with Sandals Emerald Bay in hosting the second live radio remote of 2023 at the resort in The Exumas. The live radio remotes aimed to reach a wider group of travellers and drive vacationers to The Bahamas.
    From April 2-April 3, 2023 radio personalities from 15 radio stations in the U.S. and two from Canada broadcasted live on their popular programs and social media sites about The Islands of The Bahamas and Sandals’ luxury amenities as the ultimate vacation spot.
    Hosting media partners provided a grand opportunity for BMOTIA to connect with listeners in various key markets while showcasing The Bahamas as a prime destination for visitors and inspiring travel.
    The Exumas, home to the breathtaking Sandals Emerald Bay Golf, Tennis & Spa Resort, is one of The Bahamas’ 16 unique island destinations.
    The live radio broadcasts aired in New York; Philadelphia; Charlotte; Jacksonville; Orlando; Miami; Washington, DC; Dallas; Atlanta and Toronto.ADVERTISEMENTFollowing the two-day live remotes, the stations ran a minimum of two weeks of on-air and digital promotions.
    Sandals also partnered with American Airlines and listeners were given a chance to win one of several luxury 4-day/3-night vacations for two at Sandals complete with American Airlines round trip airfare for two.  45 prize packages were offered to a number of radio stations.
    Jeremy Mutton, General Manager of the resort, said, “It is unbelievable the audience that this broadcast reaches. Mutton said the 17 radio stations “garnered total visitors of 3 million, which is huge”. “We are bringing The Bahamas to the listeners’ favorite radio show,” he added.

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    Home to the PGA Tour Mexico Open, Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta is an Extraordinary Resort

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    Sleep Inn Previews Next-Generation Prototype Emphasizing Modern Design and Guest Wellbeing More