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    Jamaica Number One Caribbean Destination in Growth for Delta Vacations

    As Jamaica’s tourism sector continues its robust recovery, the island has been dubbed the number one Caribbean destination for Delta Vacations in terms of growth. With over fifty years in business, Delta Vacations, a Delta Airlines company, is one of the largest vacations providers in the United States. Delta Airlines is a major airline out of the United States and is a legacy carrier.
    The announcement, which follows the island’s double-digit growth in terms of demand and outpacing one of its major competitors, Mexico, was shared during a high-level meeting with Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett and Senior Executives of Delta Airlines at their headquarters in Atlanta yesterday (June 13).
    “Jamaica’s tourism products and offerings continue to be top of mind for consumers of our major airline partners like Delta. Coming out of the pandemic, we have seen the demand for Jamaica grow as people search for the real and authentic experiences that we have to offer. It is truly gratifying to see that this growth is evident amongst our key tourism partners and will allow for further discussions for additional seats and routes,” said Minister Bartlett.
    The meeting with Delta airlines Senior Executives, forms part of an overarching marketing blitz led by Minister Bartlett and his team, with a series of tourism engagements in the United States, the country’s largest source market.
    Atlanta is one of the major cities from which Jamaica welcomes a large influx of American visitors. It also has a strong Diaspora that usually choose to return to Jamaica to vacation and spend in the destination. Data from Delta airlines has also indicted that seats to Jamaica are up ten percent for the upcoming summer, which will add to the very favourable projections as the best summer for the destination.ADVERTISEMENTMr. Bartlett and his team of senior tourism officials have also engaged with other critical stakeholders in New York and Miami to ensure the sector leverages the strong projections for summer.
    “Our discussions also explored the possibility of multi destination experiences through Delta’s long-haul routes that coincide with our target for emerging markets like India and Africa. We are looking at visitors from countries opting to make Jamaica a destination spot through these routes,” said Minister Bartlett.

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    Honda Aircraft Company Announces Plan to Commercialize New Light Jet

    Honda Aircraft Company has announced that it will commercialize the HondaJet 2600 Concept, an all-new light jet that was first introduced at the 2021 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE).
    The company also said it will target type certification in 2028 for the new light jet, which represents a new product line for Honda Aircraft Company and will be offered alongside its existing very light jet model, the HondaJet Elite II.The new light jet program has garnered a positive market reaction since its introduction at the 2021 NBAA-BACE. The new aircraft will surpass the performance, comfort, and efficiency of typical light jets by providing a medium-sized jet experience. It is designed to be the world’s first light jet capable of nonstop transcontinental flight across the United States, with a quiet and spacious cabin suited for long-range travel and the ability to accommodate up to 11 occupants. The aircraft is also designed for single-pilot operation.
    Additionally, based on the commitment of Honda Aircraft Company to reducing carbon emissions, the new light jet will deliver unparalleled fuel efficiency, with up to 20% better fuel efficiency compared to typical light jets, and over 40% better fuel efficiency than medium-sized jets during a typical mission.
    “The commercialization of our new light jet represents Honda’s next chapter of skyward mobility, which further expands the potential of people’s lives,” said Hideto Yamasaki, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company. “By building on the expertise behind our technological innovations, we will accelerate the development of the program with sustainability a key element throughout.”
    Honda Aircraft Company has identified critical suppliers for the new light jet, entering into strategic supplier agreements with Aernnova for aerostructures and components, Garmin for avionics, Spirit AeroSystems for the fuselage, and Williams International for engines. Honda Aircraft Company is finalizing engineering designs for the new light jet, with fabrication activities underway.ADVERTISEMENTFor inquiries, please visit HondaJet.com

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    Connect With the Waters Campaign – Miami Beach

    Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority – Miami Beach is home to world-famous beaches and waters, serving as a destination that provides inspiration, motivation, relaxation and experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the power of the area’s waters. From organized beach clean ups that give back and mindful yoga practices along the shoreline to activities including paddle boarding, kite surfing, jet skiing and fishing, the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority is working with local businesses to showcase the many ways summers visitors can Connect With the Waters this season. Those looking for water-centric vacation inspiration can follow @experiencemiambeach on Instagram to meet Miami Beach-based leaders and companies including Clean Miami Beach, Warrior Flow Yoga, Boucher Brothers, BouYah Watersports and more through the new campaign.
    “The Connect With the Waters campaign spotlights the crown jewel of Miami Beach, our stunning waters, and takes a deeper dive into the teams dedicated to providing memorable experiences while working to preserve the natural surroundings for our community and visitors to enjoy,” says Christopher Rollins, Chair of the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA). “We know travelers are looking for unique ways to Connect With the Waters of Miami Beach and we’re proud to feature a selection of options that allow for active or passive experiences to immerse in the beauty, calm and thrill of our waters.”
    Connect With the Waters uncovers the varying ways those visiting for business or pleasure can experience the power of Miami Beach’s waters. The campaign features a variety of businesses with the content now live @experiencemiamibeach on Instagram featuring Clean Miami Beach, a non-profit dedicated to bringing awareness to the harm of single-use plastics and opportunities to make a hands-on impact while on Miami Beach, and Miami Beach-based Warrior Flow Yoga, a welcoming and inclusive practice that brings people together for yoga and fitness with Miami Beach as the backdrop. Rooted in reflection and empowerment, they provide mindful practices including personal, group and signature full moon flows. Upcoming videos will cater to thrill seekers who can Connect With the Waters through active options like jet skiing, parasailing, paddle boarding and kayaking with BouYah Watersports and those who prefer to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the water on from the comfort of a beach chaise will find solace with five-star, oceanfront service courtesy of Boucher Brothers.
    “Miami Beach is home to small and family-run businesses that deliver memorable activities. We know seeing is believing and our new social campaign invites future travelers to learn more about the best ways to Connect With the Waters through dynamic content,” adds Grisette Marcos, Executive Director of the MBVCA. “As our social following continues to rapidly grow, we are focused on bringing fresh information and experiences to the forefront of our communication efforts through social platforms and enhancing our itineraries found in the new EXP Miami Beach Tours app that is now available for download.”
    To view the current Connect With the Waters campaign videos, visit www.instagram.com/experiencemiamibeach and view the MB Waters highlights section on the main profile page. Download the new EXP Miami Beach Tours APP now available on Apple and Google.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Saudi Arabia to invest further US$800bn into tourism in order to hit targets

    Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister, HE Ahmed Al-Khateeb revealed that the Kingdom is investing US$800 billion in the sector over the next ten years.
    Speaking at the 10th edition of the Arab-China Businessmen Conference on Sunday, Al-Khateeb said that travel and tourism counts for 4.5 percent of Saudi Arabia’s GDP, marking an increase from three percent in 2019.
    Saudi Arabia spends US$110 billion to become world leader in luxury hotelsKingdom of Saudi Arabia is currently developing or planning more than US$1 trillion worth of real estate and infrastructure projects, which includes 315,000 hotel rooms. US$110 billion of that figure is solely for hotels, most of which are luxury properties.
    These ambitious initiatives align with the country’s Vision 2030 strategy. Over the next four to five years, the number of hotel rooms is projected to nearly double to approximately 200,000. By 2028, at least 50 percent of the proposed supply is expected to be operational, as some existing properties make way for newer, more competitive, and appealing hotels and resorts.
    Leading real estate consultancy Knight Frank, asserts that KSA is poised to showcase its vision of an ultra-modern future to a global audience. The country’s real estate landscape will undergo a transformative shift, redefining tourism, living, and lifestyle. A diverse array of giga and mega projects will play a significant role in achieving this goal.ADVERTISEMENTKnight Frank’s research on KSA hotels, excluding the giga projects, reveals that there are currently 129,000 hotel and serviced apartment rooms in the country. By 2030, this figure is expected to increase by more than 60 percent to reach 212,000 rooms in various sectors, including 5-star, 4-star, 3-star, and below, as well as serviced apartments.
    The development cost for 4-star properties alone amounts to almost half of the total investment of $21.3 billion. Furthermore, the Kingdom’s giga projects contribute to nearly 73 percent of the hotel supply pipeline, resulting in a 62 percent surge in the number of 4- and 5-star hotel rooms by the end of the decade.
    Saudi Tourism Authority says “tourism is the new oil” as 100 million visitor target is raisedSaudi Arabia will increase the 100 million visitor target it set as part of the Saudi Vision 2030 programme.
    The number was first set in 2016 when the Vision was first announced, however, in 2022, the Kingdom welcomed 77 million domestic travellers and 16.5 million international, adding up to 93.5 million.
    Dubai, the region’s longstanding tourism leader, has 14.5 million international visitors in 2022.
    As the 100 million mark was almost reached eight years ahead of schedule, Saudi Tourism Authority’s (STA) CEO Fahd Hamidaddin said the goal post will move.
    Source: Hotelier Middle East

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    Viadi acquires Edge Retreats

    Viadi has announced the acquisition of global luxury villa rental marketplace, Edge Retreats for an undisclosed sum.
    Based in London, venture-backed Edge Retreats was founded in 2013 and has a portfolio of 6,500 villas across over fifty countries. Edge Retreats was recently named as one of Skift’s 250 most influential companies in the short-term rental space.
    This marks the third acquisition for Viadi after it purchased a majority stake in Caribbean-focused villa specialist, WhereToStay.com in January this year and experiential tour operator, Explorations Company in 2022.
    Oli Corkhill, Co-Founder, Viadi said: “I’ve followed Edge Retreats since inception and they have an impressive portfolio of properties around the world, especially in Europe. WhereToStay.com and Edge Retreats are highly complementary, and this latest acquisition will propel the business across both sides of the Atlantic. Adding the Edge Retreats properties to the mix will see the overall portfolio of vacation rentals within Viadi approaching 10,000 properties globally.”
    Aurelie Lepercq, CEO, Edge Retreats added: ‘‘We are pleased to see Edge Retreats join a collective of such successful luxury vacation rentals and travel brands. Over the years, Edge Retreats has achieved tremendous growth and presence with 6,500 properties across 164 destinations, serving a valued global base of affluent and ultra-affluent clients in 74 countries. We look forward to becoming part of the Viadi Group and WhereToStay.com’’ ADVERTISEMENTThom Dunaway, Founder of WhereToStay.com added: “Making this acquisition so early in this next chapter of the WhereToStay.com story is pivotal and allows us to bring product in Europe and the rest of the world to our largely North American based clients whilst attracting more guests globally. We’ve built a highly efficient technology platform over 25 years with unique business logic that will stand us in good stead as we grow the portfolio and client base.”
    Viadi will now be looking to capitalise on its growing client base by encouraging loyalty across the collection of brands whilst always on the lookout for further expansion opportunities in new and existing markets as well as exploring growth in other specialisms within the travel industry.
    Viadi Group SAViadi has a growing collection of high-end, specialist, vacation rental and travel companies all focused on delivering exceptional holidays for affluent clients globally. The company has four hubs in the United States, United Kingdom, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates. The name “Viadi” comes from the Rätoromanisch for travel or journey.
    Edge Retreats LimitedEdge Retreats® is a global luxury vacation rental platform pairing a discerning clientele with ultra-luxury homes in exclusive vacation destinations worldwide. From the Côte d’Azur to Lake Como, Turks and Caicos to the Swiss Alps, Edge Retreats® provides elite travelers with access to private retreats in more than 50 countries. The company’s portfolio of unparalleled estates includes lavish designer homes, private islands, estates and castles, ski chalets and beachfront properties. Bespoke services include bookable private chefs, nannies, super-yachts, and other highly coveted experiences for affluent individuals. Edge Retreats® creates unforgettable memories for its clients at the World’s most preeminent properties and are proud to be developing technology for the future of luxury travel. For more information visit edgeretreats.com .

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    Emirates wins 5 top awards for health and safety excellence in ground transport services

    At the recent Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) awards ceremony in Dubai, Emirates Group Transport Services were honoured with 5 top awards; the gold award for health and safety performance, the gold award for leisure safety, a safety influencer of the year award for one of the Emirates team members, a highly commended award in the health and safety initiative, and the trophy award for best fleet safety in the Middle East.
    Emirates is the only airline globally to claim a gold award for health and safety performance in transport and has won the award annually for the last 4 years. The gold award for health and safety performance covers overall health and safety performance for all aspects of the service that affect both staff and customers, while the gold award for leisure safety is for health and safety performance recognises services offered directly to guests and visitors. The influencer of the year award went to Roshan Menon, Manager of Transport Services, for his work in promoting safety in the Middle East. A highly commended award was achieved in the health and safety initiative category – Middle East, for the extensive transport support and safety measures implemented during COVID19 for the Emirates Group. The final award, trophy award for fleet safety was presented for excellence in managing occupational road risk in the Middle East.
    In the UAE, Emirates operates a fleet of over a thousand vehicles to transport passengers, cabin crew and flight deck, as well as other employees to and from the workplace, averaging 2.5 million road trips in an average year. One of the many benefits offered to Emirates Cabin Crew is a dedicated state-of-the-art shuttle service to and from their accommodation to the airport. Emirates’ Pilots are chauffeur-driven between their home and the airport for their flight duties. Ground staff for both Emirates and dnata are also transported to and from work.
    Emirates Group Transport Services operates in over 167 countries, offering Emirates customers the opportunity to avail of convenient coaches with Emirates Shuttle Services, and luxurious Emirates Chauffeur Drive services for First and Business Class passengers. Emirates shuttle services are comfortable coaches available in selected destinations in the UAE, Japan, US and Canada, transporting Economy and Premium Economy passengers from the airport to nearby cities. Emirates Chauffeur Drive ensures First and Business Class customers enjoy a smooth transfer to and from the airport in a high-end vehicle like a BMW or Mercedes. Emirates also manages standards and protocols for external service providers internationally who transport premium customers to and from the airport in comfort and safety as part of the signature Emirates Chauffeur Drive service.

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    Next Generation Experimental Aircraft Becomes NASA’s Newest X-Plane

    NASA and Boeing said Monday the aircraft produced through the agency’s Sustainable Flight Demonstrator project has been designated by the U.S. Air Force as the X-66A.
    The new X-plane seeks to inform a potential new generation of more sustainable single-aisle aircraft – the workhorse of passenger airlines around the world. Working with NASA, Boeing will build, test, and fly a full-scale demonstrator aircraft with extra-long, thin wings stabilized by diagonal struts, known as a Transonic Truss-Braced Wing concept.
    “At NASA, our eyes are not just focused on stars but also fixated on the sky. The Sustainable Flight Demonstrator builds on NASA’s world-leading efforts in aeronautics as well climate,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. “The X-66A will help shape the future of aviation, a new era where aircraft are greener, cleaner, and quieter, and create new possibilities for the flying public and American industry alike.”
    The X-66A is the first X-plane specifically focused on helping the United States achieve the goal of net-zero aviation greenhouse gas emissions, which was articulated in the White House’s U.S. Aviation Climate Action Plan.
    “To reach our goal of net zero aviation emissions by 2050, we need transformative aircraft concepts like the ones we’re flying on the X-66A,” said Bob Pearce, associate administrator for NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate, who announced the designation at the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Aviation Forum in San Diego. “With this experimental aircraft, we’re aiming high to demonstrate the kinds of energy-saving, emissions-reducing technologies the aviation industry needs.”ADVERTISEMENTNASA and Boeing sought the X-plane designation shortly after the agency announced the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator project award earlier this year. The Air Force confers X-plane status for development programs that set out to create revolutionary experimental aircraft configurations. The designation is for research aircraft. With few exceptions, X-planes are intended to test designs and technologies that can be adopted into other aircraft designs, not serve as prototypes for full production.
    “We’re incredibly proud of this designation, because it means that the X-66A will be the next in a long line of experimental aircraft used to validate breakthrough designs that have transformed aviation,” said Todd Citron, Boeing chief technology officer. “With the learnings gained from design, construction, and flight-testing, we’ll have an opportunity to shape the future of flight and contribute to the decarbonization of aerospace.”
    For the X-66A, the Air Force provided the designation for an aircraft that validates technologies for a Transonic Truss-Braced Wing configuration that, when combined with other advancements in propulsion systems, materials, and systems architecture, could result in up to 30% less fuel consumption and reduced emissions when compared with today’s best-in-class aircraft.
    Due to their heavy usage, single-aisle aircraft today account for nearly half of worldwide aviation emissions. Creating designs and technologies for a more sustainable version of this type of aircraft has the potential for profound impact on emissions.
    NASA’s history with the X-plane designation dates to the 1940s, when its predecessor agency, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) jointly created an experimental aircraft program with the Air Force and the U.S. Navy. The X-66A is the latest in a long line of NASA X-planes. Additionally, NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, has provided technical expertise and support for several additional X-planes.
    For the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator, NASA has a Funded Space Act Agreement with Boeing through which the agency will invest $425 million over seven years, while the company and its partners will contribute the remainder of the funding, estimated at about $725 million. NASA also will contribute technical expertise and facilities.
    The Sustainable Flight Demonstrator project is an activity under NASA’s Integrated Aviation Systems Program and a key element of the agency’s Sustainable Flight National Partnership, which focuses on developing new sustainable aviation technologies.
    Learn more about the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator at:

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    Wego and German National Tourist Office Continue partnership for the Fourth Year running

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    Wego and German National Tourist Office Continue partnership for the Fourth Year running

    Wego, the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), collaborates with German National Tourist Office for an exciting summer campaign focusing on the three pillars: sustainability, nature, and culture.Over 1 million searches were recorded this year on Wego’s platform to Germany. Through this partnership, we aim to drive more travelers and increase the numbers of searches and bookings to the country.
    Wego and German National Tourist Office will leverage their complementary resources, marketing channels, and customer bases to create an impactful campaign which will run across all marketing channels and social media. By joining forces, the two parties seek to enhance brand visibility and expand market reach.
    Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial officer and Managing Director, MENA and India, Wego said: “We are proud to sign another exciting partnership with German National Tourist Office, a true pioneer in sustainable travel and cultural exploration. Through this collaboration, we aim to showcase the vibrant landscapes, rich heritage, and unparalleled experiences that Germany has to offer inspiring travelers to embark on unforgettable journeys. This partnership is in line with our collective mission to create memorable experiences and foster sustainable travel.”
    Germany promotes sustainable tourism practices. From eco-lodges and green hotels to eco-tours and responsible travel initiatives, sustainable tourism options are readily available. This approach ensures that all types of travelers can experience Germany’s rich cultural heritage and nature while supporting local communities and protecting the environment.
    The diverse culture provides the travelers with the chance to indulge with distinct traditions, festivals, and cuisine that vary across its vibrant cities and picturesque landscape. In addition, Germany boasts an impressive collection of 51 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing its rich history, architectural marvels, and stunning natural landscapes.ADVERTISEMENTNature plays a significant role in German culture, as evident in the country’s numerous outdoor activities and appreciation for green spaces. Travelers get to enjoy hiking, cycling, and nature exploration. This love for nature is reflected in the careful preservation of forests, parks, and gardens throughout the country.
    Yamina Sofo, Director at the German National Tourist Office (GNTO GCC), said:
    “For the fourth consecutive year, Wego and the German National Tourist Office continue their successful partnership to promote Germany as an essential destination. With visitors making more than a million searches for Germany on Wego’s platform, we are thrilled to highlight the country’s sustainable tourism, mesmerising nature, and cultural treasures. Our goal is to inspire travellers to discover Germany’s lively cities, embrace its unique traditions, and immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes. This partnership underscores the German National Tourist Office’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences and advancing sustainable travel.”
    As part of this campaign, Wego will be also promoting Bicester Collection which offers unrivalled blend of designers in every village from heritage fashion houses and exciting new designers to international homeware brands.

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