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    Dubai named ‘No.1 global destination’ in Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards

    Dubai has secured the coveted No.1 global destination ranking in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations Awards for an unprecedented third successive year – becoming the first city to achieve the milestone.Dubai’s latest top international ranking was announced by Tripadvisor®, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, in its Travellers’ Choice Awards for 2024: Best of the Best Destinations. The accolade carries further significance due to the winners being selected based exclusively on the reviews of millions of global travellers in the Tripadvisor community. The awards factor in the quality and quantity of Tripadvisor reviews and ratings for hotels, restaurants and experiences in each destination over a period of 12 months between 1 October 2022 through 30 September 2023.

    Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Visit Dubai), said, “Travellers from around the world seeking a safe, secure and easily accessible destination, have embraced Dubai’s diverse offerings for all segments, from families and thrill seekers to business visitors and cultural explorers, recognising the unique experiences that can only be found in the city.”
    “As consumer demands and trends further evolve, and aided by the feedback we receive through Tripadvisor and other digital platforms, as well as directly from tourists within the city itself, we will continue to work to maintain the highest standards across the city’s offerings and services, and ensure visitors have an unrivalled experience in Dubai.”
    The top Tripadvisor award is the latest in a series of global accolades for Dubai. In 2023, the city was ranked the No.1 city in the world to relocate to in a report by financial services provider Remitly, and was ranked the best city in the world for remote workers by property consultancy Savills in its top 20 list of the 2023 Executive Nomad Index. Dubai was also named the world’s No.2 city destination in Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index 2023 and ranked one of the top 10 cities in the Global Power City Index, in a report issued by the Mori Memorial Foundation’s Institute for Urban Strategies in Japan. The UAE was also named the second safest country in the world in 2023, according to findings revealed by Numbeo, the world’s largest database of user-contributed data about cities and countries worldwide. This recognition strengthens Dubai’s attractiveness as a top global liveability hub that provides a unique lifestyle to the 200 different nationalities that call the city home, underpinned by high safety and security standards that allow travellers to visit with peace of mind.ADVERTISEMENT
    The repeated acknowledgement of Dubai as the world’s favourite destination is a testament to the city’s vibrant and diverse offerings – with an eclectic mix of luxury and affordable hotels and restaurants, as well as a range of attractions, and cultural sites which pay homage to the heritage of the emirate, keeps visitors returning time and time again. Dubai’s unique proposition has seen tourism become a vital contributor to overall economic growth.
    Dubai’s ease of entry initiatives, air connectivity, strong public-private partnership, globally recognised culinary scene, and unique quality of life, have cemented its stature as the top destination of choice. According to the latest data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai welcomed 15.37 million international overnight visitors between January and November 2023, a 20% increase over the same period in 2022. This accomplishment directly aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to further consolidate Dubai’s position as one of the top three global cities for business and leisure, and the best city to visit, live and work in.

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    RIYADH SEASON ANNOUNCES THE NEW BLVD RUNWAY, FEATURING WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCES More

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    RIYADH SEASON ANNOUNCES THE NEW BLVD RUNWAY, FEATURING WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCES

    H.E. Advisor Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GeA) has announced the start of construction of the new BLVD Runway, as one of the Riyadh Season zones, in cooperation with Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia). The zone offers fresh adventures on five planes.The new zone allows visitors to enjoy a variety of cuisines from renowned restaurants. Additionally, the zone features thrilling activities such as a horror themed experience on an airplane.
    The announcement came after GEA CEO Eng. Faisal Bafarat and Saudia Group Chief Marketing Officer Khaled Tash in the presence of H.E. Eng. Ibrahim bin Abdul Rahman Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, signed an MOU. This agreement is a joint effort between Riyadh Season and Saudi Airlines to create the zone.
    The zone provides a unique experience with specialized aircraft that perform commercial tasks other than transporting passengers in the air. This brings delight to travelers who enjoy the travel rituals without going too far. These planes are equipped to offer an entertaining experience and serve delicious meals. More information will be available and announced later.

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    Qatar Airways Touches Down its Inaugural Flight in Medan, Indonesia

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    Trip.com Group awarded in 2023 Forbes China Global Brands Selection 30&30

    In a landmark achievement, Trip.com Group has been awarded one of the Leading Brands in the 2023 Forbes China Global Brands Selection 30&30 in recognition of its exceptional global growth over the past two decades. Trip.com Group joins the selection in its inaugural year, alongside other industry leaders like automaker BYD, smart home appliance maker Skyworth, and real-time engagement platform developer Agora.io.
    Forbes China’s 30&30 selection celebrates brands originating in China that have displayed robust growth trajectories and pursued cutting-edge innovation on the world stage. Building on the legacy of their predecessors, brands venturing overseas in recent years feature richer business experiences, newer technology, and stronger market influence. This year, thirty brands that have demonstrated creativity and have achieved significant industry impact, as well as thirty individuals that contributed to brand globalisation, were selected by Forbes China to the list.
    “We are honoured to be listed among brands that have broken new ground on the path to globalisation,” said Han Feng, Head of Marketing at Trip.com. “The selection acknowledges Trip.com Group’s strategy of ‘Local Focus, Global Vision’, as we leverage advanced technology and creative marketing tools to bring fulfilling and personalised experiences to our global customers.”
    Founded in 1999, Trip.com Group has accumulated extensive experience in international business growth, getting listed on NASDAQ in 2003 and HKEX in 2021. Today, it has become one of the best-known travel groups in the world, with the mission “to pursue the perfect trip for a better world”. 
    Comprising of Trip.com, Ctrip, Skyscanner, and Qunar, Trip.com Group provides services to hundreds of millions of users in 24 languages across 39 countries and regions. Its extensive network all around the world consists of more than 1.2 million international accommodation services, over 510 partner airlines, and more than 30,000 tourism ecosystem partners. The Group held its Global Partners Summit abroad for the first time in 2023, as more than 2,000 partners and media gathered in Singapore to explore collaboration opportunities internationally. ADVERTISEMENTTrip.com Group is redefining the travel landscape with cutting-edge technological innovations. In 2023, the Group released TripGenie, an advanced AI travel assistant to facilitate the planning and booking processes, which enhanced user engagement and overall service effectiveness. Meanwhile, the Group has built a joint innovation lab with Amazon Web Services to combine resources and knowledge in cloud computing and artificial intelligence to identify and develop new ways to support Trip.com customers.
    Trip.com Group’s content marketing strategy has also proved to be a game-changer in the travel industry, as tools such as Trip Moments create a vibrant, travel-related social media experience that connects travellers globally and provides partners with new ways to engage with visitors. AI-enhanced curated lists, such as “Trip.Trends”, “Trip.Best”, and “Trip.Deals”, have helped expand consumer choice and improve the booking experience.
    As global tourism continues to recover after the pandemic, Trip.com Group has been working with partners to improve the experience of inbound travel to China and help destinations around the world reconnect with keen travellers. Trip.com has collaborated with major payment provider Alipay to provide packages on the Alipay app, aimed at helping international visitors navigate China with ease. Partnerships with tourism authorities in Singapore, Fiji, and Saudi Arabia, among others, further bolster tourism in their respective countries.
    With positive developments in visa-free travel and increased international flights, 2024 is set to be an exciting year for travel. Trip.com Group remains committed to its global expansion strategy, advancing innovations in AI, content, and ESG to firmly establish itself as an acclaimed tourism brand worldwide.

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    Shamal Holding breaks ground on exclusive Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai

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    Shamal Holding breaks ground on exclusive Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai

    From left to right: Miltos Bosinis, CEO, H&H Development, Francesco Cavalli, Design Manager – Development, H&H Development, Sudhin Siva, Vice President – Commercial Operations, Shamal Holding, Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer, Shamal Holding, Shahab Lutfi, Co- founder, H&H Development, Craig Rooney, Vice President Development, Shamal Holding, Clive Ford, Development Director, H&H Development (PRNewsfoto/Shamal Holding)
    In an exclusive ground-breaking ceremony, Shamal Holding, a diversified investment firm which manages a unique portfolio of investments, assets and experiences, has inaugurated the start of construction for the highly anticipated Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai.Set to open in 2026, the new Downtown lifestyle development will include two crystal-inspired towers cutting a new feature into Dubai’s skyline, containing Baccarat hotel suites and bespoke residences boasting the brand’s signature design. The luxury offering will be complemented by exceptional dining experiences and the highest quality amenities and services.
    An exclusive lifestyle development, Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai will blend Baccarat’s heritage of craftsmanship, the experience and energy of Dubai and a meticulous attention to finer detail, providing authentic elegance, refined comfort, exquisite living and iconic design. The hotel project will be managed by SH Hotels & Resorts.
    Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer, Shamal Holding – the diversified investment arm that owns Baccarat Hotel and Residences, Dubai said; “For over two centuries Baccarat has defined luxury, translating its essence into contemporary lifestyle offerings including Baccarat Hotel New York, the first hospitality flagship for the brand. Inspired by this, Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai introduces a glimmering new masterpiece with an otherworldly lifestyle experience for those who choose to see life in a new light. We are working alongside a team of extraordinary partners led by H&H Development to deliver an industry-defining project, setting a new standard of elevated living in Dubai”.
    “We remain committed to bringing the extraordinary to the communities we invest in, as we play our role alongside our partners and stakeholders in supporting Dubai’s growth and ambitions to be the number one city to live and work in,” continued Binhabtoor.
    Award-winning architects Studio Libeskind and interior design studio 1508 London led by renowned Dubai developer H&H Development and owner Shamal Holding will deliver an industry-defining project, setting a new standard of elevated living experience at Baccarat Hotel & Residences Dubai.ADVERTISEMENT“Our expertise in the region, underpinned by a commitment to excellence and innovation in construction, uniquely positions us to bring this development to life,” stated Miltos Bosinis, Chief Executive Officer, H&H Development.
    ‘We are proud to be working alongside Shamal Holding, and with our team of world-class partners, we are poised to craft an unparalleled living experience. Situated in Downtown Dubai, the Baccarat Hotel and Residences is a testament to our commitment to crafting spaces that emphasize cutting-edge design and sophisticated luxury, tailor-made for those who express an elevated style of living right in the heart of our city,’ he continued.
    Founded by King Louis XV, Baccarat is a legendary French crystal company whose artisans have mastered their craft for over 250 years. The Baccarat name has long been synonymous with royalty, kings and queens, sultans and tsars, moguls and modern-day stars.
    To enquire about the private residences, contact the Baccarat sales office on +971 4 590 9988 or visit www.baccaratresidencesdubai.com.

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    Vialattea Ski Partners With Trenitalia For Trains To The Alps & Discounted Ski Passes

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    Vialattea Ski Partners With Trenitalia For Trains To The Alps & Discounted Ski Passes

    Vialattea, the leading Italian-French international ski region, and one of Europe’s largest ski resorts, has announced a new commercial and promotional partnership agreement with Trenitalia, the primary train operator in Italy. Trenitalia has been named as the as the ‘Official Green Carrier’ of Vialattea, entering into a new partnership strategy with the international ski area, with a collaboration aimed at carrying out joint commercial activities in order to promote the services of both organisations.
    Vialattea, located in Piedmont, on the border of Italy and France, is comprised of 8 ski resorts, including Sestriere, Sauze d’Oulx, and the French Montgenèvre, and offers 400km of skiable area spread over 250 slopes, 80% of which are above 1,900m, connected by a network of 70 lifts.
    Vialattea is extremely well connected by rail, and is served by Regional, Intercity, and Le Frecce (High Speed Rail) trains from all over Italy. The gateway to the district is Oulx, a town that offers a railway station on the major train line connecting Turin to France, located only 6km from the nearest ski slopes in Sauze d’Oulx. 

    As part of the partnership, passengers who reach the Vialattea ski area by travelling with Trenitalia on Le Frecce (High Speed Rail), Intercity, and Regional trains will be able to take advantage of significant discounts on their ski passes of up to 25%,  including Daily, 2-Day, and 6-Day passes. Full details are available on the Vialattea website here.  ADVERTISEMENTTo benefit from these reductions, visitors simply need to show their train ticket at an Italian ticket office in Vialattea, with the date of travel no more than 3 days before the date of purchase of the ski pass, together with a CartaFRECCIA or X-GO card. 
    Direct Frecciarossa (High Speed) connections to Oulx station run on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays until 31 March 2024 from Naples, Rome, Florence, Bologna, and Milan. On Saturdays and Sundays, until 31 March 2024, it will also be possible to reach Oulx with Intercity trains. There are also 32 connections between Turin and Oulx using Trenitalia regional trains.
    The partnership comes at a key moment for both the ski and rail industries, given the increasing consumer awareness of sustainable transport options, and the growing desire of travellers to reach ski destinations by the most sustainable means possible. Trenitalia and Vialattea offer the train as an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the mountains without compromising comfort, accessibility, and sustainability.
    “Vialattea’s new partnership strategy represents an innovative and quality-oriented approach to building strategic partnerships with high-level companies,” commented Andrea Rondina, Business Development & Marketing Director of Vialattea. 
    “The new partnership with Trenitalia is a tangible example of how Vialattea is seeking to surround itself with partners that share similar values and goals, aiming to elevate the experience offered and to position itself distinctively in the partnership landscape. This collaboration with Trenitalia marks a significant step in further accessibility and convenience of the skiing experience in the beautiful Olympic mountains of Vialattea, also focusing on the importance of sustainable transport.”

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    Skyros Holidays Launches Its 2024 Programme: Celebrating 45 Years of Life-Changing Experiences

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    Skyros Holidays Launches Its 2024 Programme: Celebrating 45 Years of Life-Changing Experiences

    Skyros Holidays, renowned for its transformative retreats and workshops, proudly announces its 2024 programme, marking 45 years of providing life-changing experiences. This year’s programme continues the tradition of excellence, offering a diverse range of courses designed to enrich the mind, body, and soul.The 2024 lineup includes the famed Skyros Writers’ Lab, offering a nurturing environment for both budding and experienced writers. The Writers’ Lab is part of a broader curriculum that also features a unique blend of mental health and wellbeing courses, designed to foster personal growth and emotional resilience.
    Skyros Holidays continues with their exciting array of physical and creative activities. Participants can explore their humorous side with Comedy courses, find inner peace through Yoga, and unleash their creative potential in various art-centric workshops.
    For those seeking adrenaline and adventure, the programme includes exhilarating options such as Trapeze & Aerial Silks, Kayaking & Windsurfing, and Abseiling. The wild swimming sessions offer a refreshing way to connect with nature and embrace the great outdoors.
    “Our 2024 programme is a culmination of 45 years of expertise in crafting holidays that are not just a break from the routine but a journey towards self-discovery and joy,” said Christine Director at Skyros Holidays. “We believe in the power of community, creativity, and adventure to transform lives, and our diverse course offerings reflect this philosophy.”
    Skyros Holidays invites everyone to join this journey of exploration and transformation. Whether it’s finding your voice, developing a new skill, or simply taking the time to relax and rejuvenate, Skyros offers a space where every individual can find something that resonates with their spirit.ADVERTISEMENTAt Skyros Holidays, we’re continually evolving to enhance the experience of our guests while also considering the environmental impact of travel. In line with this commitment, we’re excited to announce an increase in the number of two-week holiday options for the upcoming season. This change not only allows for a more in-depth and fulfilling holiday experience but also aligns with our sustainability goals by reducing the frequency of travel.
    For more information about the 2024 programme and to book your transformative holiday experience, visit www.skyros.com or contact Leigh Jackman at marketing@skyros,com.

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    Hilton’s Luxury Hot List: Global Properties and Brand Signatures to Debut in 2024 and Beyond

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    Dr. Rui Loureiro Brings Wellness to Maldives for Valentines Day

    Following on from the recent announcement of internationally-acclaimed healer Vandana Mendonca will be on resort from 31st January to 13th February 2024, the island team continues its journey into providing the most innovative Maldives ‘wellbeing experiences’ announcing that Dr Rui will return to the archipelago to visit JA Manafaru.Available for sessions until the 3rd March, guests staying throughout February can continue holistic journeys into ‘Mind, Body and Soul’ with the expert support of Dr. Rui. A distinguished specialist in Chinese Medicine, Dr Rui offers therapeutic wellness treatments to the guests at the resort, starting on Valentines Day.
    Lifestyle-conscious guests will appreciate the synergy of JA Manafaru’s popular ‘Wellness Your Way’ initiative and Dr Rui’s unique treatments.  Dr Rui offers a unique journey into your genetic information with an epigenetic hair test conducted by certified laboratory.
    This comprehensive analysis provides insights into various facets of your biochemical profile, encompassing nutrient levels, vitamin concentrations, mineral content, essential amino acids, fatty acid composition, antioxidants and contaminants. Dr Rui can assess the balance of each and advise on lifestyle choices along with optimise diets for a healthier lifestyle.
    Rita Gupta, Director of Spa at JA Manafaru says, “Along with acupuncture, anti-cellulite treatment and other therapies, the island team is excited to support our guests journey into ‘Epigenetics’.  Dr Rui’s extensive expertise can help our guests better understand the natural workings of their bodies through this assessment, we can compliment his treatment plan by offering the widest range of menus through our ‘Wellness Your Way’ initiative, with menus that cater to variety of eating lifestyles including vegan/vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy free and low carb.  Unique dining experiences are a big part of any Maldivian escape, so we aim to accommodate and support the needs of all our guests during Dr Rui’s visit and beyond. 
    Additional treatments Dr Rui will offer include:ADVERTISEMENTAcupunctureQuit Smoking For LifeHolistic Facial Rejuvenation ProgrammeAnti-CelluliteDr. Rui has an impressive resume, receiving his Bachelor’s degree from Chengdu’s University of Chinese Medicine in China and pursuing a postgraduate degree in Cosmetic Acupuncture from CMIR/ACUMEDIC – London and Beijing’s University of Chinese Medicine.
    Renowned for his expertise in diagnosis, he has served in hospitals in China and clinics in London and Portugal. Currently, he holds the position of the head of the Chinese Medicine Department at St. Louis Hospital in Lisbon and is the Clinical Director of Clinica Cura Pura in Aveiro, Portugal.  With over 20 years of clinical practice, Dr. Rui is a dedicated and lifelong student and researcher of Chinese Medicine.
    Immerse yourself in an unparalleled wellness experience with Dr. Rui Loureiro at JA Manafaru Maldives starting 14th February 2024.

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    “Chat SkiPT” from the Austrian National Tourist Office: Real Ski Instructors Replace AI

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    “Chat SkiPT” from the Austrian National Tourist Office: Real Ski Instructors Replace AI

    As artificial intelligence conquers more and more areas of our lives, the Austrian National Tourist Office is launching the world’s first “Authentic Intelligence”. At “Chat SkiPT”, real-life ski instructors answer live questions about winter holidays and beyond.
    With typical Austrian humour and their in-depth expertise, they convey the special flair of a winter holiday in Austria. The ChatSkiPT.com website is already online, with the actual chat phase starting on 17 January 2024.
    Artificial intelligence (AI) is finding its way into more and more areas of life, and AI is already being used for holiday planning. Tools such as ChatGPT can provide valuable tips and well-founded information. However, they have not (yet?) mastered the typical Austrian humour. And there is also a residual risk of incorrect results and poor recommendations. Not least because holidays in Austria are all about authentic experiences, the Austrian National Tourist Office is relying on “Authentic Intelligence” – the knowledge and humour of real-life Austrian ski instructors – instead of “Artificial Intelligence” as part of a new marketingcampaign.
    CHAT SKIPT ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS
    “Winter holidays in Austria are not just about state-of-the-art ski infrastructure with over 23,000 hectares of pistes and more than 2,600 ski lifts. What makes a holiday in Austria special are the authentic experiences and personal contacts. The conversations with local people, hosts and ski instructors. We at the Austrian National Tourist Office are enthusiastic about technology and open to the possibilities and capabilities of artificial intelligence. With Chat SkiPT, we still want to remind everyone that it’s all about people and that AI cannot replace the friendly Austrian charm, at least not yet,” says Astrid Steharnig-Staudinger, Managing Director of Austrian National Tourist Office.ADVERTISEMENTOn the website www.chatskipt.com, visitors write their questions in a chat window, similar to ChatGPT. Instead of AI, 15 ski instructors from the Austrian ski regions respond. The experts provide in-depth specialist knowledge about skiing, reveal how to enjoy the Austrian winter and are also happy to share a word or two of wisdom. You can chat from Wednesday, 17 January 2024 to Saturday, 20 January 2024 during fixed time slots. The chat is available in English, German and Dutch. Information on the chat times can be found on the website.
    “With Chat SkiPT, we are generating additional attention for winter in Austria alongside our regular high-reach campaigns in Austria’s 12 most important foreign markets. In the 2022/23 winter season, winter sports enthusiasts in Austria generated sales of 12.6 billion euros, which corresponds to direct and indirect added value of 6.7 billion euros. Winter in Austria is crucial for the economic success of our tourism country and I am delighted that we as the Austrian National Tourist Office can make our contribution in the form of modern, effective communication,” says Steharnig-Staudinger.
    The campaign was developed in co-operation with the agency Wien Nord Serviceplan, which has been the new lead agency of the Austrian National Tourist Office since last year.

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