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    Copenhagen is Europe’s Leading Cruise Port in 2024

    At a ceremony in Berlin on March 6th, 2024, the port in Copenhagen was announced as Europe’s Leading Cruise Port 2024 by the World Travel Awards.World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. Copenhagen won the award as Europe’s Leading Cruise Port in 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012 and now in 2024.
    The award was accepted in Berlin by Luis de Carvalho, Commercial Cruise Director of Copenhagen Malmö Port (CMP):
    ”I would like to express my huge gratitude to all the voters including passengers, cruise lines, tourism and travel industry professionals, and a special thank you to our partners at CruiseCopenhagen, CMP colleagues and to all the local companies and stakeholders that work day in and out to provide our cruise guests with wonderful and memorable experiences. This award is for Copenhagen!”
    The Danish capital, with its manageable size, accommodates a variety of lifestyles. Rich in culture, Copenhagen seamlessly merges history with modernism, showcasing striking architecture and boasting a world-class gastronomy scene, all underscored by a strong commitment to sustainability.
    “This is just what we need when we travel around the world to promote Denmark as a cruise destination. Especially at a time when we are working hard to get more – especially the American cruise lines – to come back to Copenhagen and the Baltic Sea region. This award helps to convey that there is so much else and more to experience, especially in our capital Copenhagen,” says Klaus Bondam, Director of Cruise, CruiseCopenhagen.ADVERTISEMENTStrategically positioned as a gateway to the Baltic Sea as well as the Nordics/North Atlantic, Copenhagen features excellent infrastructure and experiences to support cruise operations. The destination is equipped with a well-connected international airport, flexible turnaround facilities at the three acclaimed Ocean Quay cruise terminals, and centrally located facilities at Langelinie Pier and Nordre Toldbod.
    In 2023, Copenhagen warmly welcomed over 750,000 guests and nearly 300 cruise ships. Similar numbers are anticipated for 2024, with cruise bookings all 12 months of the year and more than 50 cruise calls between October 2024 and April 2025, which is rare for the Northern Europe region. In 2024 Copenhagen will have 10 inaugural cruise ship calls including Queen Anne, Mein Schiff 7, Ocean Albatross, Azamara Onward, Villa Vey Odyssey amongst others.
    All together CMP’s terminals in Copenhagen cater for all types of cruise vessels and segments from luxury, niche, expedition, premium all the way to the largest cruise vessels in the world.
    Committed to responsible cruise tourism, Copenhagen Malmö Port aims to achieve carbon neutrality in its operations by 2025, coinciding with the anticipated availability of shore power for cruise ships in Copenhagen.Source: https://www.mynewsdesk.com/

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    The Convention Centre Dublin Leads European Venues, Winning at the World Travel Awards 2024

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    The Convention Centre Dublin Leads European Venues, Winning at the World Travel Awards 2024

    The Convention Centre Dublin (The CCD) has clinched the title of Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre for the year 2024 at the prestigious 31st World Travel Awards ceremony.
    Earning the accolade of Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre highlights Dublin and the venue’s appeal as a premier destination for business conferences. The achievement also saw Ireland celebrated on the international stage, with accolades going to Teeling Whiskey Distillery for Ireland’s Leading Whiskey Distillery Tour, Luttrellstown Castle Resort for Europe’s Leading Luxury Wedding Resort, and the Guinness Storehouse being named Europe’s Best MICE Event Venue.
    The announcement was made by the World Travel Awards at an event held in Berlin, Germany on Wednesday 06 of March. Picking up the award on the night, Stephen Meehan, Chief Executive at The CCD, said “I’m very pleased to accept this award tonight on behalf of all of my colleagues in The CCD. This award, in particular, is always special as it’s voted for by our industry professionals and consumers. Together with the team back in Dublin, I would like to thank everyone who voted for us.”
    Asked about the industry landscape in Ireland, Mr. Meehan commented, “Ireland remains a top business tourism destination and at The CCD, we are working on events right out to 2030. We know that success happens because of the collaboration of the entire industry, as well as the continued attractiveness of Dublin and Ireland as a great place to do business.”
    Since its inauguration in 2010, The CCD has welcomed over 1.1 million guests from around the globe and hosted more than 2,200 events. The 2024 calendar is already bustling with significant events such as the Women in Project Management Summit in March, the 16th European Glaucoma Society Congress in June, and the Internet Engineering Task Force 121 in November.ADVERTISEMENTSurpassing a number of prestigious venues in the competition, including the Austria Center Vienna, Fira Barcelona in Spain, Scandinavia XPO in Sweden, and the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, The CCD is now set to vie for the global title of ‘World’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre 2024’ at the upcoming World Travel Awards.
    Votes from professionals in the travel, tourism, business, and leisure sectors worldwide contributed to this honor, acknowledging The CCD’s dedication to excellence over the past year.
    This most recent recognition as Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre adds to The CCD’s impressive tally, bringing its total award count to 64 since its opening.
    Source: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/

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    Cuba awarded at the World MICE Awards 2023 tourism event

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    Cuba awarded at the World MICE Awards 2023 tourism event

    Cuba received for the fourth consecutive year the award for Best MICE Organizer at the World MICE Awards 2023, in the field of tourism for meetings, congresses and incentive trips,The note from the tourism authorities of this country reflects satisfaction and the reference to the fact that it is an incredible testimony of efforts and hard work.
    Precisely, the organizers of events and meetings in Cuba this Wednesday showed gratitude to the judges and the industry in general for the valuable recognition.
    First of all, they said jointly, they are committed to providing unique inspiring experiences and the best service in Cuba, fully supported by the insular office of said specialty in Europe.
    The World MICE Awards seek to recognize and celebrate excellence in the MICE industry. As for the meaning of this last term, it is an acronym in English used to refer to different segments of events and tourism.
    The nominees for the occasion, in addition to Cuba as a nation, were Solways, CubaGrouPlanner, and Green Alligator Travel and Events.ADVERTISEMENTIn 2022, Solways was the winner, in 2021 MICE Cuba, and in 2021 also Solways. On other previous occasions, entities and facilities on the island were also recipients of this recognition.
    For example, in previous versions in the Best New MICE Hotel in the Caribbean category, the winner was the Paseo del Prado in Havana, managed by the Accor company and which competed with other prestigious establishments such as the Koi Resort Saint Kitts, Curio Collection by Hilton (St. Kitts and Nevis) and the Provincial Palace of San Juan.
    For its part, in the Best MICE Hotel in Cuba section, the award went to the Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa, managed by Meliá Hotels International Cuba. The Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana, the Hotel Nacional de Cuba and the Meliá Cohiba were also nominated in the category.
    The MICE Cuba agency was previously selected as Best Event Organizer in the largest of the Antilles, an award for which CubaGrouPlanner and Green Alligator Travel & Events were also nominated, the spokespersons reiterated.
    MICE Cuba is a DMC (Destination Management Company) that uses its knowledge and experience about the destination to organize and manage events and their associated activities such as accommodation, transportation, optional tours, among others.
    The World MICE Awards recognize and reward the excellence of tourist facilities that promote tourism for events, conferences and conventions at an international level. They are based on the renowned World Travel Awards, considered the Oscars of tourism.
    Created in 1998, MICE Cuba is highly experienced, dynamic and creative, providing a comprehensive portfolio of services to one of the most unique and fascinating destinations in the world, its own documents point out.
    Source: https://www.cadenagramonte.cu/

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    Jumeirah Appoints Chief Brand Officer to Lead The Evolution of its Brand

    Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hospitality company and member of Dubai Holding, today announced the appointment of Michael Grieve as its new Chief Brand Officer, responsible for spearheading the evolution of the brand as part of its Mission 2030 strategy. Formerly Vice President Brand and Client for Gucci, leading brand, communications, events and client development across Europe, Middle East and African marketplaces, Grieve will join Jumeirah in April.
    Originally from New Zealand, Grieve’s 16-year career has spanned roles for leading international brands including BMW Group, adidas, and Nike and most recently Gucci in Milan.  He comes with a proven track record of delivering business success across iconic international brands and will play an integral role in transforming Jumeirah’s brand, building a robust value proposition and experiential offering to secure Jumeirah’s position as a globally recognised hospitality group as it moves ahead with its plans to double the size of its portfolio by 2030. 
    Thomas Meier, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Jumeirah, spoke of the new hire: “As part of our Mission 2030 strategic plan, we are building on rich origins to shape a new brand expression of ultra luxury hospitality that will enable our growth in key destinations around the world.  As our new Chief Brand Officer, Michael is integral to that journey and brings an outstanding brand building pedigree with a luxury network that will help enable our transition from a regional success story to a global brand with international reach.  I’m looking forward to working closely with Michael as we embark on a new era for the Jumeirah brand.”
    Grieve’s impressive track record includes brand management for BMW and MINI in New Zealand; the development of global campaigns and retail strategies for the adidas running and basketball businesses; leadership of the Jordan Brand for Nike across EMEA and most recently driving all brand marketing, communications and client engagement activities for Gucci Maison across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
    Michael Grieve said of his new role with Jumeirah: “My passion lies in creating and delivering impactful brand strategies that resonate with diverse and discerning audiences, grounded in authenticity and the brand’s core values. The Jumeirah brand is built from exceptionally strong foundations, and I believe we now have an unparalleled opportunity to define an identity and ultra-luxury experience that sets Jumeirah apart and supports its global growth ambitions.  I’m very proud to join Jumeirah on this exciting journey.”ADVERTISEMENTGrieve is one of a number of senior hires made by Jumeirah in the last year as part of its Mission 2030 strategic plan. In 2023, Joanne Behrens was appointed as Senior Vice President of Architecture and Spatial Design, tasked with reshaping Jumeirah’s design philosophy. Niamh O’Connell also joined as Vice President of Wellbeing, focusing on enhancing the wellness experience through lifelong learning, longevity, and inclusivity. Additionally, Bryanne Tait came on board as the Global Senior Director of Sustainability to support ongoing efforts to minimise operational impact to protect people and planet.
    For more information visit jumeirah.com

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    MADEIRA IS, FOR THE 10TH TIME, THE BEST ISLAND DESTINATION IN EUROPE.

    MADEIRA IS, FOR THE 10TH TIME, THE BEST ISLAND DESTINATION IN EUROPE. PORTO SANTO IS THE BEST BEACH DESTINATION AND THE MADEIRA PROMOTION ASSOCIATION THE BEST TOURISM ENTITY.Funchal will host two international World Travel Awards galas in November this year.
    The Region obtained triple distinction at the 31st European Gala of the World Travel Awards taking place tonight at The Ritz Cartlon, in Berlin, Germany.
    Madeira was considered for the 10th time as the best island destination in Europe, Porto Santo was distinguished as having the best beach and the Madeira Promotion Association was classified as the best Tourism entity.
    The Region took the award from the other 12 islands that were also in the vote. In the race with Madeira which has now won the award were the Azores, the Canary Islands, Ibiza, Mallorca (Spain) Crete, Cyclades (Greece), Sardinia, Sicily (Italy), Malta, Cyprus, Guernsey and Jersey (United Kingdom).
    The region had already won the award for Best Island Destination in Europe in 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023. On December 1, 2023, Madeira received the award for Best Island Destination of the World, in the world edition of the WTA, which happened for the ninth time.ADVERTISEMENTFor the first time in these awards, Porto Santo won in the category of ‘Best Beach Destination in Europe’, surpassing the Algarve and also Cannes (France), Corfu and Costa Navarino (Greece), Mallorca and Marbella (Spain) and Sardinia (Italy).
    Also awarded was the Madeira Promotion Association as “Best Tourism Entity in Europe”, in an award that competed with 13 other nominees such as Tourism of France, Tourism of Austria, Tourism of Croatia, Tourism of Ireland, Tourism of Germany, Greek Tourism, the Spanish Tourism Institute, Italian Tourism, the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Slovenian Tourism, Portuguese Tourism and Visit England.
    At the ceremony that took place this evening in Berlin, it was also announced that Madeira will host two international World Travel Awards galas next November. This is the World Golf Awards gala, scheduled for November 22nd, and the World Travel Awards global gala, which will take place on November 24th. Both will take place at the Savoy Palace. 
    The ‘World Travel Awards’ were created in 1993 and are awarded annually to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. The World Travel Awards are considered the “Oscars” of Tourism and the most prestigious prizes awarded in the sector.
    Source: https://www.madeiraislandnews.com/

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    Athens Crowned Europe’s Top City-Break Destination at World Travel Awards 2024

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    Athens Crowned Europe’s Top City-Break Destination at World Travel Awards 2024

    Athens has clinched a prestigious title in the tourism realm, emerging as Europe’s Leading City-break Destination at the World Travel Awards 2024.The announcement came during a glittering ceremony held in Berlin on Wednesday, coinciding with ITB Berlin, a major tourism exhibition. Athens, represented by its special pavilion at the EOT Pavilion, took centre stage at the event.
    The honour was accepted by Ioannis Georgizas, Managing Director of the Development and Tourism Promotion Company of the Municipality of Athens (EATA), who expressed pride in the achievement. “We are thrilled to receive this important recognition, which puts our city among the best city-break destinations in Europe,” Georgizas remarked. “Athens offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere, with new attractions for short getaways. It’s not just about our rich cultural heritage and sunny days; it’s also about our museums, modern cultural venues, fine dining, and authentic experiences in our neighbourhoods. At EATA, we’re committed to enhancing quality, sustainable tourism while ensuring Athenians’ quality of life.”
    The accolade crowns Athens’ decade-long efforts, led by This is Athens, a project of the Municipality of Athens, to position the city as a competitive year-round city-break destination. In 2023, Athens welcomed over 7 million international visitors, setting a new record.Athens was also nominated in five other categories at the World Travel Awards, including Top Cultural Destination, Top Meeting and Conference Destination, Top Cruise Destination, Top Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Top Sight for the Acropolis.
    This isn’t the first time Athens has been recognised by the prestigious awards. In 2018, the Greek capital bagged the same title, beating out renowned cities like Amsterdam, Venice, and Paris. Over the past decade, Athens has earned several accolades at the World Travel Awards, including leading Cultural Destination worldwide in 2022 and 2023, and best Convention and Visitors Bureau in Europe for 2018 and 2022. The iconic Acropolis has also been celebrated as a top Tourist Attraction in 2014 and 2018.
    Source: https://greekcitytimes.com/ADVERTISEMENT

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    Spain’s Leading Sports Resort At World Travel Awards 2024

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    Spain’s Leading Sports Resort At World Travel Awards 2024

    Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa has been named ‘Spain’s Leading Sports Resort 2024’  at the World Travel Awards 2024 for the fourth time – a recognition of the hotel’s world-class sporting facilities that are enjoyed by hotel guests, locals and elite sports teams. The five-star hotel, owned by Grupo Inversor Hesperia, opened its doors in May last year, becoming the first Grand Hyatt in Spain following an ambitious renovation project. It is located at the heart of the La Manga Club resort, in an idyllic enclave off the Mediterranean coast, and is surrounded by the stunning Calblanque Natural Park with views of Mar Menor, a tranquil coastal lagoon.
    The award was presented at the gala ceremony for the 31st edition of the World Travel Awards in Berlin on Wednesday 6th March. Ángel Holgado, general manager at Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa commented: “Receiving recognition of this magnitude in the most prestigious international awards in the sector, and for it to be in our first year since reopening as a Grand Hyatt, is a huge honour. It drives us to continue improving and delivering the finest sport and leisure experiences to all our guests”.Since its creation in 1972 by Gregory Peters, La Manga Club and sport have always gone hand in hand. Most commonly known for its world-leading golf facilities, the resort is home to three of the best golf courses in Europe: the North Course, South Course and West Field. Today, Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa also offers golf academies for adults and children at all levels, a large practice area and other exclusive services such as the Clubhouse, the 37 Spikes & Sports Bar, Caddy Master and a renovated pro shop.
    The hotel also has world-class facilities for a range of other popular sports, including football with eight FIFA-sized football fields and a stadium for 700 supporters, a total of 28 courts across a variety of surfaces at The Racquets Centre, as well as seven padel courts, a pickleball court and a high-performance gym.
    The resort has also hosted a number of prestigious sporting events since opening over five decades ago, notably the Davis Cup, the Fed Cup, the Spanish Open and the ATP. Golf legends such as Severiano Ballesteros, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player, and tennis stars, Arancha Sánchez Vicario, Andy Murray and Juan Carlos Ferrero, all play at its venues. The world’s biggest football teams have also trained at La Manga Club through the years, including Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Ajax, Liverpool FC, Galatasaray SK and Newcastle United as well as the national teams of both Spain and England.
    Lastly, the golf courses at La Manga Club have also played a part in a number of Guinness World Record achievements. In June 1985, Otto Bucher, who was 99 years old at the time, putted a hole-in-one from the 12th tee of the South Course (Par 3), which to this day still stands as the record for a hole in one by the oldest person. In November 1995, two English players hit the longest shot at 310 metres on Hole 3 of the South Course.ADVERTISEMENTSource: https://premierconstructionnews.com/

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    JW MARRIOTT CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF JW MARRIOTT ST. MAARTEN BEACH RESORT & SPA

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    JW MARRIOTT CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF JW MARRIOTT ST. MAARTEN BEACH RESORT & SPA

    JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announces the opening of the first Marriott International luxury hotel in St. Maarten: JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa. Nestled in a tropical haven exuding multicultural charm, JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa embodies the brand’s mindful ethos, offering travelers an enriching Caribbean retreat that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit.“JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa marks our debut in this striking corner of the Caribbean, not only punctuating our incredible growth in the region, but also strengthening our global presence,” said Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “JW Marriott is committed to anchoring in premier destinations worldwide and this property seamlessly blends JW Marriott’s guiding wellness principles and luxury amenities, with locale-forward complements and tropical warmth closely in tow. We are poised to reimagine the hospitality landscape in St. Maarten and are eager to welcome guests to our newest jewel.”
    Upon arrival at JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa, guests are welcomed by a majestic two-story stone clad tower, crowned with an ornate steel dome that pays homage to the island’s rich Dutch architectural heritage. Inside, the property unfolds into a series of inviting spaces, beginning with a welcoming grand lobby adorned with a library, lounge, and an elegant JW Bar. The property boasts versatile event spaces, a convenient JW Market, and a culinary school where guests can participate in a plethora of enriching and uplifting experiences throughout their stay. Adding to the property’s allure is a tranquil courtyard garden, offering guests a serene retreat for moments of quiet reflection.
    JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa welcomes travelers with 200 stylishly appointed guest rooms and suites blending modern flair and coastal elegance that feature stunning views of the sea and St. Barths in the distance. Designed by Cauhaus Design, the spacious guest rooms provide unparalleled comfort offering a warm atmosphere infused with rich tones, natural wood finishes, handcrafted tile accents, and elegant cove lighting alongside best-in-class entertainment systems encouraging guests to Stay in the Moment®.  Distinctive artworks and artifacts enhance the guest rooms and suites and pay homage to the island’s rich history and reverence of craftsmanship.
    The hotel also features four elevated dining venues, each with its own tie to the multicultural destination. Liguria is a vibrant celebration of the sun and the sea, drawing inspiration from the coastal Mediterranean with a menu that emphasizes regional flavors including fresh vegetables, seafood, citrus, grains, and herbs. Basil, grape tomatoes, and cherry tomatoes from the JW Garden are incorporated into popular menu items such as the pastry chef’s house-baked Focaccia. Complementing this breadth of Mediterranean soul, the wine list ranges from French rosés and Italian reds to more unique expressions from Greece, Spain, and other coastal regions. Carambola represents the laid-back breakfast, lunch, and dinner dining scene locally referred to as “flip-flop fine dining” utilizing fresh ingredients from the JW Garden such as curly parsley, used in the signature tabbouleh, and bok choy which is used to make Carambola’s housemade kimchi.
    The Lobby Bar is the hub to the contemporary food forum with creative mixologists expertly preparing drinks exclusive to the bar, such as the Gin-Z, a thirst-quenching combination of gin, Aperol, and Prosecco. At the pool, guests can find Breeze perfectly positioned with unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Caribbean Sea to the west. The menu features new takes on many familiar items as well as exotic handcrafted cocktails and frozen libations that feature garnishes from the JW Garden.ADVERTISEMENTIn addition to the fully equipped Fitness Room, the Hibiscus Spa combines modern design elements with a color palette of soothing earth tones, natural textures, and plush furnishings. Guests will discover 16 tranquil treatments, all evoking peace and repose. Skilled providers offer an indulgent menu of therapies incorporating local fruits and flowers, each crafted to renew body and mind.
    In total, venue spaces spread across 30,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space and can be arranged in countless ways to host conferences, board meetings, team building activities, social gatherings, product launches, and more. The hotel is home to 10,000 square feet of flexible indoor function and event space, including the Soualiga Ballroom and four function venues for memorable gatherings. From lushly landscaped spaces on the lawn, JW Garden, and pool deck to the ethereal blues and whites on Dawn Beach, the venue’s prestigious surroundings and enticing seaside views are enhanced by customizable services including catering, audiovisual, event design, and destination concierge services.
    Located a convenient 30-minute drive from Princess Juliana Airport, the resort is easily accessible by commercial airline, private plane, chartered flight, or boutique luxury cruise line. St. Maarten is often referred to as the yachting capital of the Caribbean and serves as an ideal hub for visiting nearby islands as its geographic location makes inter-Caribbean travel a breeze.
    “JW Marriott offers guests a legacy of luxury hospitality matched with principles of mindfulness that are integral to today’s traveler,” said Todd Reichelt, General Manager, JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa. “Situated on the world-famous Dawn Beach, our resort stands as a serene enclave and island getaway in this historically rich destination. We look forward to welcoming and providing our guests with a truly memorable and holistic well-being experience.”
    For more information or to make a reservation, please visit https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sxmdb-jw-marriott-st-maarten-beach-resort-and-spa/overview/

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