Eliana Willis

More stories

  • 113 Shares149 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Tourism Revenues in Greece Reached €1.5 Billion During October

    The Greek Minister of Tourism, Vasilis Kikilias, has revealed that last October tourism revenues reached €1.5 billion, thus exceeding October 2019 by 3.3 per centAccording to Minister Kikilias, this is a result of the increase in arrivals from important markets with which strategic agreements were made this year, including +69.2 per cent from Great Britain, +10.6 per cent from Germany, and + six per cent from France, compared to October 2019, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.
    At the same time, arrivals from other countries also increased to impressive levels, with +12.3 per cent from the United States, +28.1 per cent from France, and +83.2 per cent from the United Kingdom as a whole.
    “These performances in the month of October prove de facto that the lengthening of the tourist season has become a reality, and they mean multiple revenues not only for the branded islands, but also for the less popular mainland destinations, Athens and Thessaloniki,” he pointed out in this regard.
    In addition, he also emphasised that the surplus of three billion euros, which will be allocated this year, will be distributed to vulnerable groups, families, and people in need, adding that Greece has proven how much it tries to support society. During the pandemic, the country allocated €44 billion in different forms to its citizens,  €10 billion of which was for energy.
    At the end of last month, the Minister of Tourism revealed that by the end of 2022, Greece’s income from travel would exceed the 2021 budget by three billion euros.ADVERTISEMENTMeanwhile, he noted that in October, Fraport’s airports recorded an increase of +14.9 per cent compared to October 2019. As a result, there was also an increase in the turnover in accommodation and hotels, respectively by 22.1 per cent and 19.8 per cent in the third quarter of this year.
    As Kikilias explains, even the occupancy rate in the travel destination accommodations has experienced very high growth, thus reaching 100 per cent.
    Moreover, the Minister of Tourism said that €100 million would be allocated from the program titled “Save-Operate” in order to support the owners of small hotels and accommodations in mountain destinations that are most affected by the energy crisis. He also confirmed that the contribution to “Tourism for all” will continue until the end of January 2023.
    Noting that Greece is considered one of the main tourist brands around the world, the Greek authorities have announced that this year the income from tourism has already exceeded €18 billion.
    Source: https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/

    Older
    US TRAVEL ASSOCIATION HAILS STEPS TOWARDS LOWERING VISA WAITS

    Newer
    Germany Sees 180% Increase in Number of Visitors from Gulf States More

  • 113 Shares99 Views

    in organisations-operators

    US TRAVEL ASSOCIATION HAILS STEPS TOWARDS LOWERING VISA WAITS

    The US Travel Association has hailed a series of major wins for the country’s travel and tourism sector in the Senate, including a new federal post dedicated to the industry.US Travel Association president and chief executive Geoff Freeman hailed the passing of a US government funding bill, including the Omnibus Travel and Tourist Act, “a tremendous win for travellers, the travel industry and America’s economy”.
    The bill will create a new assistant secretary of travel and tourism role within the US Department of Commerce, meaning the industry will have dedicated representation at American’s top table.
    “The idea to create a presidentially appointed, US Senate-confirmed position to lead federal travel policy has been around for decades,” said Freeman. “Thanks to a bipartisan and bicameral group of congressional leaders, the United States will now join all G20 countries with a senior federal official focused on travel.”
    Freeman said the incumbent would be vital to the association’s ambitions to lobby the US government, in particular, for action on reducing US visitor visa wait times, which it says can run to between 400 and 800 days for would-be arrivals from some key source markets.
    “The assistant secretary will play an important role as we partner with government to lower visitor visa wait times, modernise security screening and leverage new technologies to make travel more seamless and secure,” added Freeman.ADVERTISEMENTSource: https://www.ttgmedia.com/

    Older
    US imposes Covid testing for visitors from China

    Newer
    Tourism Revenues in Greece Reached €1.5 Billion During October More

  • 100 Shares159 Views

    in organisations-operators

    2022 Marks an Award-Winning Year for Miami Beach

    Miami Beach and the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA) celebrate a year of multiple award wins from a notable selection of the industry’s most recognized and respected organizations including Travel Weekly’s Magellan Awards and the World Travel Awards.As an international destination, Miami Beach was recognized as the “World’s Leading Lifestyle Destination 2022” and “North America’s Leading City Destination 2022” by the World Travel Awards, both testaments to the destination’s experiences rooted in arts + culture, wellness and wellbeing, outdoor activities, water sports and recreation and the rising culinary scene. The World Travel Awards also took note of the MBVCA’s work in the year, including the launch of a new experiential app, EXP Miami Beach Tour App, recognizing the MBVCA as “North America’s Leading Tourist Board 2022.” Adding to the year’s wins, Chairman of the MBVCA, Steve Adkins, has also been named “South Florida Tourism Professional of the Year” by the Academy of Hospitality and Tourism/NAF in the awards’ 31st edition.“As advocates for Miami Beach with a dedication to further enhancing our global reputation, we dedicate these awards to the community and those who work tirelessly to deliver stellar experiences to visitors and locals at our city’s hotels, restaurants and attractions,” says Steve Adkins, Chairman of the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority. “The passion for hospitality is evident and we are proud to be recognized by our fellow industry professionals for the work we have done and will continue to do in the future.”
    Miami Beach was also a Travel Weekly Silver Magellan Award winner in the Culinary Mecca category, further cementing the city’s position as a travel-worthy destination for foodies. This year, Miami Beach became home to two Michelin star recognized restaurants, Stubborn Seed and Jaya at The Setai. In addition, Miami Beach’s signature and world-famous restaurants, all located within a seven-mile range, include legendary Joe’s Stone Crab, Prime 112, Carbone Miami Beach, Forte di Marmi, Chotto Matte, Nobu and Bagatelle. And, for the first time, the MBVCA won a Travel Weekly Gold Magellan Award for the consumer-facing Instagram handle @experiencemiamibeach, recognized for connecting with social users through authentic and engaging content, in the Social Media – Hospitality category.
    “We look forward to building upon these recent accolades in the areas we know have an impact on driving visitors to Miami Beach in the new year,” adds Grisette Marcos, Executive Director of the MBVCA. “These awards will continue to support our ongoing efforts to innovate and provide unique experiences that appeal to all traveler styles.”
    For more information and to plan a future trip to award-winning Miami Beach, download the Experience Miami Beach and EXP Miami Beach Tour App Miami Beach Apps and follow the @experiencemiamibeach handles on Instagram and Facebook for the most up-to-date details and offerings.

    Older
    Spend the First Day of 2023 Hiking in America’s State Parks

    Newer
    Quebec home to priciest New Year’s Eve destination in Canada More

  • 138 Shares99 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Spend the First Day of 2023 Hiking in America’s State Parks

    America’s State Parks are inviting everyone to start the new year off enjoying time spent in nature and tapping into the health benefits of being outdoors.To make it easy, state parks from Maine to California are offering free, First Day Hikes on January 1st. The guided hikes are led by park staff members and volunteers who have expert knowledge of their respective locales.
    The distance and difficulty of the trails vary from park to park, but the hikes are designed to benefit the entire family. This year there are more than 1,300 hikes available!“It’s our way of wishing health and happiness for the coming new year,” said Lewis Ledford, executive director of the National Association of State Park Directors.
    “Recent research is confirming the benefits of just 30 minutes a week spent in nature, and what better way to start a new healthy habit for 2023 than taking advantage of hikes being offered in state parks across the nation,” said Ledford. “Our hope is that this event will stimulate a passion for the outdoors and a desire to explore our local treasures throughout the entire year.”
    Hikers can choose guided hikes that fit their comfort levels, including mountain and hill climbing, walks along lakes, exploring trails that wind through forests, and wildlife expeditions.
    “Each state enjoys unique outdoor features and wildlife on its public lands,” Ledford said. “And no matter your weather preference, whether it be snow in the north and across the Rockies or mild temperatures across the south and southwest, you can experience it all with First Day Hikes.”ADVERTISEMENTFirst Day Hikes began more than 30 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, which is a state park in Massachusetts.
    America’s State Parks are committed to promoting outdoor recreation to help address mental, emotional and physical health – especially among children. So begin 2023 with a focus on your physical and mental well-being with a First Day Hike in one of America’s State Parks.
    For more information on First Day Hikes at your nearest state park, go to https://www.stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes/. And use the hashtag #FirstDayHikes.

    Older
    Fly private with RoyalJet to the top destinations of the world

    Newer
    2022 Marks an Award-Winning Year for Miami Beach More

  • 125 Shares149 Views

    in organisations-operators

    BOC Aviation Announces Order for 40 Additional Boeing 737-8 Jets

    BOC Aviation Limited and Boeing today announced that the airplane lessor is growing its 737 MAX portfolio with an order for 40 additional 737-8 jets. With the order, BOC Aviation is advancing its strategy of purchasing new, fuel-efficient, environmentally sustainable airplanes that are in demand with airline customers.“We are pleased to continue to build on our existing relationship with Boeing, with this 40-aircraft incremental order for the fuel-efficient Boeing 737-8 aircraft. The incremental order takes our total 737 MAX 8 orderbook with Boeing to 80 aircraft,” said David Walton, BOC Aviation deputy managing director and chief operating officer. “We look forward to continuing to provide one of the industry’s most technologically advanced aircraft for delivery on lease to our airline customers, and to support their sustainable growth over the balance of this decade.”
    Boeing continues to see strong market demand for the 737 MAX family, with more than 1,500 gross orders since late 2020.
    “We are proud that BOC Aviation continues to invest in the 737-8 with its industry-leading versatility and ability to fly almost any short- and medium-haul market profitably,” said Ryan Weir, vice president of Global Leasing Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We look forward to more opportunities to expand our relationship to support BOC Aviation and its customers.”
    The 737-8 is designed to offer more fuel efficiency, reliability and flexibility in the single-aisle market. The airplane can fly 3,500 nautical miles – about 600 miles farther than its predecessor – allowing airlines to profitably serve new and more direct routes for passengers. Compared to the airplanes it replaces, the 737-8 also delivers superior efficiency, using 20% less fuel and significantly reducing CO2 emissions and operating costs.
    As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defense products, and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality, and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.ADVERTISEMENTBOC Aviation is a leading global aircraft operating leasing company with a fleet of 612 aircraft owned, managed and on order. Its owned and managed fleet was leased to 81 airlines in 38 countries and regions worldwide as of 30 September 2022. BOC Aviation is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEx code: 2588) and has its headquarters in Singapore with offices in Dublin, London, New York and Tianjin. For more information, visit www.bocaviation.com.

    Older
    Aer Lingus announces January sale live until 16 January 2023

    Newer
    New York City is world’s priciest New Year’s Eve destination More

  • 150 Shares169 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Al Hosn Festival Returns in 2023 to Celebrate Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Heritage

    Al Hosn Festival, Abu Dhabi’s annual celebration of the emirate’s cultural heritage, is set to return with a packed ten-day programme taking place from 13 to 22 January at the iconic Al Hosn site. Set across Al Hosn’s historic buildings and outdoor areas, the event will showcase the best of Abu Dhabi’s heritage as well as the breadth of its creativity.
    Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the festival promises an exciting array of activities for visitors of all ages, with cultural performances, film screenings, art installations, craft and design demonstrations, creative workshops, retail pop-ups, and a variety of culinary experiences.
    His Excellency Mohammed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Each year, Al Hosn Festival tells the story of Abu Dhabi at its place of origin. A key component of our cultural calendar, the festival celebrates Abu Dhabi’s heritage and craftsmanship and connects them with the contemporary art practices of the emirate. The festival has quickly become a focus of inspiration and exchange for the emirate’s cultural ecosystem, and a key element of DCT Abu Dhabi’s drive to both preserve the emirate’s treasured heritage and support and grow its new generation of artists and creative practitioners.”
    Activations will span the vast Al Hosn site, with Qasr Al Hosn transporting visitors back in time to offer a glimpse of life in Abu Dhabi in decades past. Guests will enjoy live demonstrations of Emirati craftsmanship and artisanal techniques at House of Artisans, where they can also participate in creative workshops and witness competitions highlighting Emirati cultural excellence. Similarly, Cultural Foundation is once again set to offer an engaging and thought-provoking programme of art exhibitions, performances, film screenings, interactive installations and workshops.
    The festival’s Makers Village is set to return, offering unique items created by artists and designers from local and regional concept stores. There will also be a creative culinary experience.ADVERTISEMENTAl Hosn Festival provides a platform for cultural experimentation and exchange in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s ever-evolving urban landscape, while remaining rooted in the emirate’s authentic traditions. The event aligns with the vision and mandate of DCT Abu Dhabi to protect, preserve and promote the emirate’s heritage, showcase Abu Dhabi as a cultural destination and provide a platform for artistic experimentation and public engagement.
    Al Hosn is the original urban block of the city and comprises the historic Qasr Al Hosn Fort, the Cultural Foundation, the National Consultative Council building and the House of Artisans. Al Hosn is emblematic of the proud cultural heritage of the UAE, bringing to life the rich fabric of its history, people and traditions and highlighting the city’s future ambition.Full details of the Al Hosn Festival 2023 programme will be announced closer to the event. For more information, please visit www.alhosnfestival.ae

    Older
    The Walt Disney World Railroad Returns

    Newer
    Explore an Enchanting Winter Wonderland This Festive Season in Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah More

  • 75 Shares99 Views

    in organisations-operators

    The Walt Disney World Railroad Returns

    Folks, the renowned Walt Disney World Railroad has officially returned, and John and his team would love to welcome you aboard!“The first time cast members brought the Walter Elias train into Main Street Station, guests and cast gathered below to cheer and welcome the trains home,” John muses. “You can see the excitement on kid’s faces as they see the train coming around the corner for the first time and hear its whistle. It’s magical, and an honor to introduce the next generation to the beauty of steam trains, carrying on my family and Walt’s legacy.”
    From a young age, the sound of a train whistle was a familiar staple in cast member John’s life. Both his grandfather and great-grandfather were engineers on the steam trains at the Pittsburgh steel mills. John never imagined he would carry on their, and Walt’s legacy, at the Magic Kingdom Park overseeing the Walt Disney World Railroad’s historic return today.
    Starting at Magic Kingdom in 1995, John’s first role was as a Conductor on the Walt Disney World Railroad. “It was this moment of serendipity,” John explains. “My grandma was so tickled that I was working on the railroad just like my grandfathers. They love to tell the story that when I was born, my grandfather was on the train and blew his whistle nonstop when he found out he was having a grandson.”
    A young 17-year-old at the time, John was incredulous that he was being trusted with such an iconic piece of the park. “You can’t get more Disney than the steam train,” he says. He felt a deep connection with Walt, but also his grandfathers who had both since passed away.
    ADVERTISEMENTNow, 28 years later, John has spent almost the entirety of his Disney career on Main Street, U.S.A. His full-circle journey has brought him to this very moment where he now oversees the operation of the Walt Disney World Railroad! The enormity of bringing these historical 100-year-old trains back to the Magic Kingdom isn’t lost on him. It’s an opportunity to introduce guests to the same feelings of whimsy and childlike wonder that made him fall in love with the park all those years ago.

    Older
    Korean Air receives approval from China on Asiana acquisition

    Newer
    Al Hosn Festival Returns in 2023 to Celebrate Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Heritage More

  • 113 Shares99 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Korean Air receives approval from China on Asiana acquisition

    The Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM) announced its approval of Korean Air’s business combination with Asiana Airlines on December 26.MOFCOM has demanded that the merged Korean Air-Asiana entity reduce its market share due to competition concerns, to which Korean Air has submitted remedies proposing to transfer slots to any new airlines wishing to start air services on nine routes where both Korean Air and Asiana Airlines operate. Five of the nine routes have been proposed by the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) earlier this year and an additional four routes have been advised by MOFCOM.
    Korean Air expects MOFCOM’s approval of the business combination to play a positive role in the review process of the remaining competition authorities.
    Currently, Korean Air is still waiting for business combination approvals from the U.S., E.U. and Japan, countries where reporting is mandatory, as well as the final approval from the U.K., where reporting is arbitrary. The U.K.’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has accepted remedies submitted by Korean Air, but will gather opinions from the market before giving their official approval. Korean Air will continue to cooperate closely with the remaining competition authorities to ensure the review process is completed as soon as possible.
    The airline submitted business combination reports to the nine countries that require reporting on January 14, 2021. Out of these nine countries, Korean Air has received approval from China, Korea, Turkey, Taiwan and Vietnam. The Thailand Competition Commission announced that submission of a business combination report was not necessary.
    From countries where reporting is arbitrary, Korean Air has received clearance from Singapore, Malaysia and Australia. The Philippines has confirmed that the business combination report was not required.ADVERTISEMENT

    Older
    Southwest Airlines Recovering from Operational Challenges

    Newer
    The Walt Disney World Railroad Returns More