Eliana Willis

More stories

  • 125 Shares169 Views

    in organisations-operators

    International Cities Remain the Backbone of Global Travel & Tourism

    The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) launched its Cities Economic Impact Report (EIR) at the 22nd Global Summit in Riyadh today. Sponsored by Visa, the report shows cities remain the powerhouses of global tourism and will drive the recovery of the sector and economies around the world.The Cities EIR analyses 82 international city destinations and shows that prior to the pandemic major cities were popular travel destinations, accounting for almost half of all international visits, both as standalone destinations and as gateways to other tourism hotspots within countries.
    COVID-19 had a devastating impact on Travel & Tourism and in particular major cities around the world as countries closed their borders in response to the pandemic.
    Throughout the pandemic, and as borders began to reopen, leisure travellers swapped major metropolises for less-populated destinations such as coastal and rural hotspots, leaving economies of international cities to battle through an incredibly tough three years.
    Thousands of hotels, restaurants, and attractions in cities around the world were forced to close, with hard working people losing their jobs as businesses struggled to stay open during these challenging times.
    The Cities EIR shows how both leisure and business travellers are flocking back to cities, as their draw as iconic destinations are once again becoming the beating hearts of international tourism destinations, and business centres for overseas visitors. ADVERTISEMENTAccording to the report ten of the 82 cities analysed are projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels in terms of direct Travel & Tourism GDP contribution to the city economies this year.
    Qatar’s capital Doha is forecast to see the largest increase from 2019 to 2022, in terms of international traveller spend as well as in direct Travel & Tourism’s contribution to the city’s GDP, with an expected increase of 21%.
    In Europe, Warsaw is expected to witness a significant 14% increase in 2022 versus 2019 in Travel & Tourism’s contribution to the city’s GDP.
    In the US, Orlando is projected to see a 10% increase in direct Travel & Tourism contribution to the city’s GDP over that same period.
    Over the next decade, Travel & Tourism is on track to become a key driver of economic growth once again, with faster GDP growth than other sectors, generating 126 million new jobs around the world.
    By 2032, the Travel & Tourism sector will directly generate up to 8% of all jobs in the 82 cities analysed in the Cities Report, up from 6.6% in 2019 and a low of 5.1% in 2020.
    Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Our report clearly shows that for millions of tourists around the world, major cities remain iconic global destinations. There’s still a strong appetite to experience the history, culture, and energy that cities offer travellers.
    “Before the pandemic, cities were powerhouses for international tourists, serving as standalone destinations and as gateways to other tourist destinations within countries. This year cities are recovering around the world, and we forecast that cities will continue to grow and thrive over the next decade.
    Jeni Mundy, Head of Global Merchant Sales and Acquiring, Visa, said: “Even after the colossal challenges the pandemic brought to the travel industry, the economic benefit of tourism to cities remains strong. Consumers’ willingness to adopt digital-first travel experiences will help pave the way for even more innovations in the future.
    “At Visa, we remain focused on how payments technology can make a traveller’s journey more seamless – something anyone who’s had a travel hiccup can appreciate.

    Older
    Vattanac Golf Resort offers world-class golf in up-and-coming Phnom Penh, Cambodia

    Newer
    Travel & Tourism industry can shift to a net-positive model by 2050 finds new report More

  • 138 Shares169 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Heathrow to donate life-saving defibrillators to local community groups and charities

    Heathrow is giving away defibrillators to local community groups, charities and small organisations around the airport. The life-saving devices are looking for a new home and are free of charge to any local community group that could benefit from one in the neighbouring area.The airport has recently updated all the devices in its terminals and, after thorough testing, wants to make sure the previous models which have plenty life in them go to good use. Defibrillators can provide a vital lifeline when someone suffers a cardiac arrest and increase their chances of survival while medical help is on its way.
    Heathrow is offering to donate Lifepack 1000 units, all of which are under 10 years old and still in full working order with new batteries, a carry case and strap. The units only require new pads, which cost around £10 to replace. There are 65 devices still available.
    Becky Coffin, Director of Communities and Sustainability at Heathrow, said: “A defibrillator in the right place can be a genuine lifesaver. That’s why we want to make sure that every single one of these is given a good home in the local community. Anyone from a local group who thinks they would benefit from a free defibrillator should get in touch to register their interest.”
    To register an interest please contact the Heathrow Communities Team, providing details of the organisation you represent and why the defibrillator would be of use to you. Requests should be sent to [email protected] by Monday 12th December.
    To find out more about the support Heathrow’s community team can offer in your local area, visit: https://www.heathrow.com/company/local-communityADVERTISEMENT

    Older
    Oman Air introduces low-cost fare option designed for passengers who travel light

    Newer
    MSC Cruises partners with TimeVallée to further enrich its catalogue of luxury brands More

  • 150 Shares189 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Delayed flight connection? Travel expert explains whether you can leave the airport

    Flight delays and cancellations have become a normal part of airline travel since the pandemic due to staff shortages, strikes and surges in demand. And as the holiday season approaches, travel chaos is expected at airports around the world during peak times.This can be especially stressful if you’re travelling long haul and have a connecting plane to catch. More holidaymakers may also be choosing layover options over direct flights to save some cash as the cost-of-living crisis squeezes budgets.
    So, if you find yourself stuck at an airport waiting for a delayed connection, can you (and should you) leave the airport?
    Jacob Wedderburn-Day, CEO of luggage storage network Stasher shares his advice.
    While being stuck in an airport for multiple hours would be incredibly boring, an extended flight delay might give you time to soak up some tourist attractions and still be back in time for your next flight.
    For British travellers, there are over 180 countries you can visit without a visa, so if you’re going to be stuck in an airport for an extended period, leaving the airport shouldn’t be a problem – just make sure to check visa requirements at your connecting airport before you arrive.ADVERTISEMENTMany common layover cities have excellent public transport options and you can quickly make your way from the airport into the city centre. A bit of quick research will help you find the best routes to make the most of your time.
    Apps like Google Maps or Citymapper can give you some great insight into local transport delays and traffic, which will help you plan out whether you have enough time to leave the airport and return before your next flight.
    If you’ve booked your connecting flights together, your checked bags will automatically be loaded onto your next flight, so you don’t have to worry about queuing up to check your suitcases again.
    Of course, this still leaves you with the challenge of what to do with your in-flight bags. Carrying around multiple bags is not ideal for a quick city trip, so consider booking a storage locker for a few hours so that you’re free to explore the city.
    Depending on where you’re flying to, most airlines suggest you be at the airport between two and three hours before your flight. However, this may also depend on the airport you’re flying from. While some airports are incredibly efficient, there are still some that are struggling with staff shortages and lengthy queues.
    Look out for news stories about airports that you’ll be travelling through or set up some alerts to be notified when the airport is in the news. This will help give you a better idea of how the airport is functioning, and if you’ll be able to pass through passport control and security checks efficiently.
    Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, for example, is still struggling with hours-long queues. In these situations, it may be better to forgo a quick visit to the city to avoid missing your next flight. You can also check with an information or airline desk within the airport about the status of queues.
    While it is exciting to make the most of a delayed flight and get in some extra sightseeing, rather be over-cautious with your timings. If it’s estimated that it will take you an hour to get to and from the airport, give yourself a few hours of leeway.
    It’s also worth finding out the airline’s policy for extended delays, in some instances, you may be entitled to compensation and potentially even accommodation if you have a lengthy overnight delay.

    Older
    Four Seasons Hotel Nashville unveils signature services and premium aesthetics lines

    Newer
    Onguma Camp Kala Rises from the Ashes More

  • 163 Shares189 Views

    in organisations-operators

    London City Airport teams up with Leidos to replace conventional security X-ray machines

    The best airport experience in London is about to get even better from April 2023. London City Airport is investing in replacing its existing conventional security X-ray machines with new, state of the art, CT scanners, provided by Leidos.With close to 4 million passengers expected through London’s most central airport in 2023, the upgrade will mean travellers can leave everything in their hand luggage, as the new scanners eliminate the need to remove items, such as laptops and approved liquids, before going through the X-ray machine.
    And for LCY, already renowned for its unique passenger proposition of speed and convenience, the new CT scanners will mean an even faster and improved experience at the airport for passengers, which follows the separate £12 million departure lounge investment.
    Commenting on the upgrade, the airport’s Chief Operating Officer, Alison FitzGerald, said:
    “Following our one-lane trial this year, we know the new CT scanners are high performing and our passengers love them.
    “We are always challenging ourselves to make the LCY experience even better, so this, alongside the £12 million upgrade in the departure lounge will mean the journey through the airport in 2023 will be even slicker, with more space and better food & beverage and retail options.ADVERTISEMENT“Thanks to the Leidos solution, alongside speed, it also delivers the highest security specifications.”
    Commenting on the partnership, Leidos’ Jonathan Stone, Division Manager and Director of Aviation, said:
    “We’re excited to expand our partnership with London City Airport and enhance their security checkpoints.”
    “Leidos focuses on constant innovation and discovery. Through our next-generation technology, airports can achieve high security levels, while providing a better travel experience for their passengers.”
    FitzGerald added: “Speed, convenience and consistency of service are qualities that we know are so important to our passengers, especially now. So we also hope the results from the recent Which? survey will encourage more people to use London City Airport this Christmas and through 2023.”
    London City will be amongst the first UK airports to offer a full CT security proposition.

    Older
    UNWTO Affiliate Members network expands with 18 new entities

    Newer
    Dusit Hotels in Thailand introduces new offer to help international travellers escape the cold More

  • 113 Shares179 Views

    in organisations-operators

    UNWTO Affiliate Members network expands with 18 new entities

    The newly admitted UNWTO members reflect the diversity of the broad tourism sector, with private companies, Destination Management Organizations, universities, professional associations, Intergovernmental Organization and NGOs, all represented. The new additions also reflect UNWTO’s global mission, six from Europe; four from the Americas; four from Asia and the Pacific; two from Africa and two from the Middle East.
    We are proud to see the Affiliate Members network growing while adding value to the Organization, and wish a warm welcome to the 18 new entities joining our community
    In accordance with the current legal process of admission, the 18 candidatures were submitted for consideration and approval of the 117th Executive Council after being previously reviewed and endorsed by the Committee on Matters related to Affiliate Membership, during the meeting of the Committee that took place on 17 November. With this official approval of the Executive Council, the new members can enjoy all the rights and benefits corresponding to this UNWTO membership, in accordance with the statutes and rules of the Organization.
    UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “We are proud to see the Affiliate Members network growing while adding value to the Organization, and wish a warm welcome to the 18 new entities joining our community.”
    The 18 new Affiliate Members are:ADVERTISEMENTAsociación Española de Directores y Directivos de Hotel (Spain)Busan Tourism Organization (Republic of Korea)Cappadocia University / Kapadokya Üniversitesi (Türkiye)Comité International Des Festivals Du Film Touristique – CIFFT (Austria)Escuela Profesional De Turismo De La Universidad Nacional De San Antonio Abad Del Cusco (Peru)Eturia CLM (Spain)Hospitality & Tourism Association of Eswatini (Eswatini, the Kingdom of)Innovaris SL (Spain)Jeddah Central Development Company (Saudi Arabia)Johannesburg Tourism Company (South Africa)Manifest Destinations Group, INC. (United States of America)National Inbound and Domestic Tourism Association of Moldova (Moldova)ONWARD (United States of America)Osaka University of Tourism (Japan)Pacific Tourism Organization (Fiji)Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (Jordan)PT. Pintu Bali Digital (Indonesia)Smart Tourism & Hospitality Consulting SA – SMART THC (Panama)

    Older
    IHG® Hotels & Resorts to rebrand Carlton Al Moaibed Hotel in Al Khobar

    Newer
    London City Airport teams up with Leidos to replace conventional security X-ray machines More

  • 125 Shares139 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Reconnecting the World Sustainably at the PATA Annual Summit 2022

    More than 200 delegates from around the world came together in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE to build a stronger and more resilient tourism economy for the future.The PATA Annual Summit 2022 (PAS 2022), under the theme ‘Reconnecting the World Sustainably’, opened in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE on Tuesday, October 25 with 237 delegates from 128 organisations and 36 destinations attending the three-day event.
    Generously hosted by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and organised by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), the event featured 16 main stage sessions, four breakout workshops, various destination tours, two mobile photography workshops, and a sustainability leadership forum that united 21 senior government and travel industry leaders from the public and private sector in Asia and beyond for dialogues on unique approaches towards overcoming challenges and unlocking new opportunities as the world works towards rebuilding a stronger tourism future.
    “By bringing together such a diverse group of thought leaders, senior representatives from the public sector and other non-governmental organisations, we addressed the challenges and solutions to our complex and stage-wise recovery,” said PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera. “Travel and tourism will continue to be a critical contributor to the economic well-being of the Asia Pacific region and PATA remains committed to facilitating discussions and catalysing actions.”On Tuesday, October 25, the PATA Board, PATA Chapter Congress and related internal meetings took place, while other delegates at the opportunity to choose from three different a half-day destination tours, as well a mobile photography workshop by award-winning Nikon Professional Photographer and a frequent Apple collaborator and iPhone content creator Scott Woodward. The day ended with a welcome reception at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel.
    The following day began with PATA’s inaugural Travel Sustainability Leadership Forum, a closed door, invitation only session that brought together travel leaders focused on holistic sustainable tourism development. The half-day forum established a travel leaders community that will ongoingly do best practice exchange, dialogue, and collaboration, with participants bringing to the roundtable dialogue their unique approaches towards overcoming challenges and unlocking new opportunities as the world rebuilds a stronger tourism future. At the same time as the forum, a range of concurrent breakout sessions on the topics of destination resilience, destination marketing and the immediate needs for MSME recovery took place.
    The official opening ceremony was followed by keynote speeches, a fireside chat with Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and a series of panel discussions, including the “Ministerial/Government Session – Reinspiring, Reimagining and Rebuilding: Strategies for Sustainable Travel Recovery”, which included Raki Phillips; Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, Minister, Ministry of Tourism Maldives; Florian Sengstschmid, Chief Executive Officer, Azerbaijan Tourism Board; Liz Ortiguera, CEO, PATA; Shri Arvind Singh, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, India; Mitsuaki Hoshino, Vice Commissioner, Japan Tourism Agency, and Sandiaga Uno, Minister, Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Republic of Indonesia (virtual), moderated by Anita Mendiratta, Founder & President, Anita Mendiratta and Associates. The day concluded with a dinner reception and the PATA Awards Presentation at the Sonara Al Wadi Camp, The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert.ADVERTISEMENT
    The final day of the PATA Annual Summit opened with a virtual keynote presentation on “Empowering A Sustainable Future through Public Private Partnerships” from Pansy Ho, Group Executive Chairman and Managing Director, Shun Tak Holdings Limited. This was followed by a panel discussion on developing responsible destinations which included Steven Schipani, Principal Tourism Industry Specialist, Southeast Asia Department, Asian Development Bank (ADB); Damià Serrano Miracle, Experience Marketing & Research Director, Catalan Tourist Board; Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, CEO, Sarawak Tourism Board; Dhananjay Regmi, CEO, Nepal Tourism Board, and Sione Moala-Mafi, Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Tourism – Tonga, moderated by Archana Shukla, India Business Correspondent, BBC News. Other topics discussed on the final day included future leaders and the investment in human capital, supporting women in MSMEs, a keynote on global hotel industry trends by Chip Rogers, President & CEO, American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and an aviation session on the route to recovery.That afternoon, under the patronage and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the main stage conference kicked off.

    Older
    Discover a new way of enjoying tourism in Quito

    Newer
    IHG® Hotels & Resorts to rebrand Carlton Al Moaibed Hotel in Al Khobar More

  • 125 Shares169 Views

    in organisations-operators

    WTTC unveils world-first global Travel & Tourism climate footprint data

    The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has today unveiled groundbreaking new data detailing the climate footprint of the global Travel & Tourism sector.
    The findings were launched today at the global tourism body’s 22nd Global Summit in Riyadh by the World Travel & Tourism Council and the Saudi-based Sustainable Global Tourism Center.In a world-first, this comprehensive research covers 185 countries across all regions and will be updated each year with the latest figures.During her opening speech Julia Simpson, President & CEO of WTTC announced the findings of the Environmental & Social Research (ESR). In one of the largest research projects of its kind ever undertaken, WTTC can for the first time ever, accurately report and track the impact industries within the sector have on the environment.
    Previous estimates have suggested that the global Travel & Tourism sector was responsible for up to 11% of all emissions. However, WTTC’s pioneering research shows that in 2019 the sector’s greenhouse gas emissions totalled just 8.1% globally.
    The divergence of the sector’s economic growth from its climate footprint between 2010 and 2019 is evidence that Travel & Tourism’s economic growth is decoupling from its greenhouse gas emissions. 
    These emissions have been falling consistently since 2010 as the result of technological developments, as well as the introduction of a number of energy efficiency measures across industries within the sector. ADVERTISEMENTBetween 2010 and 2019 our sector’s GDP has grown on average 4.3% annually whilst its environmental footprint has only increased by 2.4%.
    The broader Environmental & Social Research (ESR) will include measures of the sector’s impact against a range of indicators, including pollutants, energy sources, water use, as well as social data, including age, wage and gender profiles of Travel & Tourism related employment.
    WTTC will continue to announce new data on how the sector fares against these indicators throughout 2023.
    Governments around the world now have a tool to inform their decision-making and accelerate environmental change more accurately.
    Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Until now we did not have a sector-wide way to accurately measure our climate footprint. This data will give governments the detailed information they need to make progress against the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
    “Travel & Tourism is making huge strides to decarbonise, but Governments must set the framework. We need a steely focus on increasing the production of Sustainable Aviation fuels with Government incentives. The technology exists. We also need greater use of renewable energy in our national grids – so when we turn on a light in a hotel room, it is using a sustainable energy source.
    “8.1% is the stake in the ground. The key is to become more efficient and decoupling the rate at which we grow from the amount of energy we consume From today, every decision, every change, will lead to a better and brighter future for all.”
    Saudi Arabia Minister of Tourism, HE Ahmed Al-Khateeb added: “We are proud to be a partner to the WTTC in this important research that will monitor impact for the future.
    Saudi Arabia recognizes that travellers and investors want policies that promote sustainability in the industry and we have embarked on a journey that will make the Kingdom a pioneer in sustainable tourism.
    “Under the Saudi Green Initiative, we launched more than 60 initiatives in the past year to do just that. The first wave of initiatives represent more than $186 billion of investment in the green economy.”

    Older
    Belize Blue Bond and Progress

    Newer
    SAUDIA Diamond sponsor and official airline partner of the WTTC Global Summit More

  • 163 Shares139 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Nobu Hospitality and Aldar Properties Plan for Iconic Nobu Residences, Hotel & Restaurant

    Nobu Hospitality, the fastest growing luxury lifestyle brand, and Aldar Properties (PJSC), one of the leading real estate developers and managers in the UAE, announce plans to create the Nobu Hotel, Restaurant, and Residences in Abu Dhabi.Opening in 2026 on Saadiyat Island, a world class cultural hub, Nobu Hotel will boast 165 luxuriously spacious guest rooms and suites, including a stunning Nobu Villa.  As one would only expect from the legendary culinary brand, the hotel will offer unrivalled destination dining including a magnificent Nobu restaurant with spectacular waterfront and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi views mirroring the famed Nobu Malibu. With access to over 8 kilometers of pristine beachfront, guests will also enjoy a state-of-the-art wellness and fitness center, opulent swimming pools, and exclusive access to experience all that Saadiyat Island has to offer.
    Situated alongside the hotel and just a seven-minute drive from downtown Abu Dhabi, the development includes an exquisite Nobu branded residences. Offering a mix of multi-bedroom waterfront residences and penthouses with unobstructed views of the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and positioned in the most coveted location on the island, the Nobu Residences will be one of the most sought-after and desirable addresses in the region.  Residents will enjoy the highest level of service, bespoke amenities, and have exclusive access to exceptional social experiences and events only available at Nobu.
    Saadiyat Island is a world-renowned, leisure, business, residential, and cultural center.  Graced by the presence of free-roaming gazelles, white-sand beaches, and home to the critically endangered Hawksbill turtles, Saadiyat Island also offers the world’s largest single concentration of cultural assets including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and the Zayed National Museum as well as other remarkable attractions.  Guests and residents of the island can also perfect their swing on the region’s premier waterfront golf course, or simply relax on the island’s sprawling stretch of powdery white beaches and protected coastal areas.
    Nobu enters Abu Dhabi in partnership with Aldar Properties, the master developers of integrated, liveable, and thriving communities across the Middle Eastern region’s most desirable destinations.

    Older
    Celebrate the festive season with the return of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s Winterfest

    Newer
    Qatar Airways to Resume Flights to Taif, Saudi Arabia with Three Weekly Flights Starting 3 January More