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    Visit Qatar to participate in ITB Berlin 2024 this week

    Visit Qatar is set to participate at ITB Berlin 2024, the world’s leading travel trade show. ITB hosts over 5,000 international exhibitors every year and is one of the most important events in the travel industry. His Excellency, Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, Chief Marketing and Promotions Officer at Qatar Tourism, along with a team of 28 delegates from travel and hospitality industries will be representing Visit Qatar this year.The ITB is a hub for informative, cultural, and inspirational B2B exchanges pertaining to travel, tourism, hospitality, and trade. Visit Qatar aims to foster several exchanges with key travel, trade, airline, and media partners to promote Qatar to key stakeholders in the European market. In addition, Visit Qatar anticipates fruitful discussions, trade meetings, new partnership deals, and opportunities.
    Visit Qatar’s section will have meeting rooms, 28 regular booths, three corporate booths, and an area for Qatar Calendar. The interactive stand also features a calligrapher and Arabic coffee for visitors.
    ITB will run from March 5 to 7 in Berlin, Germany. To keep up with the latest events in Qatar’s calendar, please visit www.visitqatar.com.
    Source: https://www.zawya.com/

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    Spirit Announces Termination of Merger Agreement with JetBlue

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    Experience Abu Dhabi brings unique culture and tourism experiences to ITB Berlin More

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    Colombia Invites American Buyers to Explore Opportunities at the 100th Business Matchmaking Forum

    ProColombia, the promotion agency of the country, part of the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Tourism, announces the 100th edition of its largest exports event, the Business Matchmaking Forum, which will take place in Colombia, at Cartagena’s Convention Center from April 22nd to 26th.As Colombia’s foremost international trade promotion activity, the Forum provides a platform for Colombian companies from diverse sectors to engage in one-on-one meetings with international buyers. This edition will host 2,000 exporters from all over Colombia, representing key sectors such as agri-business, textile and apparel, industries 4.0, and manufacturing. Additionally, there will be 1,000 buyers from 60 countries in attendance, the United States being the main commercial ally for the event and the country.
    “Colombia, known as the Country of Beauty, boasts a rich variety of offerings beyond its globally recognized flowers, coffee, and avocados. The nation is a hub of innovation and industrial strength, offering strategic advantages for American buyers seeking diverse sourcing opportunities”, said Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia.
    Colombia’s strategic position, being the only South American country with access to trade routes in both the Pacific and the Caribbean front, is accentuated by its nearshoring capabilities and low minimum production costs, making it an attractive trade destination. The country’s economy displays dynamism across sectors such as metalworking, manufacturing, textiles, and apparel, presenting sourcing opportunities for international partners.
    Moreover, Colombia’s thriving tech sector further amplifies its appeal, positioning the country as a prime collaborator for U.S. tech companies.
    These are some of the reasons why American buyers attending conferences in Colombia have praised the nation for its quality products, diversity, creativity, sustainability, and excellent service, indicating the potential for fruitful and mutually beneficial business relationships.ADVERTISEMENTThe first Business Matchmaking Forum by ProColombia took place in 1997 in Cartagena, with the participation of 200 international buyers and 400 Colombian exporters. This edition aims to showcase to the world the evolution of the regions and the business ecosystem of Colombia.
    Beyond the Forum, Colombia invites you to explore its beauty. From diverse wildlife and stunning scenery to delicious food, Colombia has it all. With excellent flight connections, traveling there is easy for both business and leisure.
    Spots are limited and registrations are open until March 9th. Discover all the opportunities that Colombia has to offer: https://mcr.macrorruedasprocolombia.co/macrorrueda100/index.php?tu=comp&ci=4

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    ICONIC DESTINATIONS FOR THE MICE SEGMENT IN LATIN AMERICA

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    ICONIC DESTINATIONS FOR THE MICE SEGMENT IN LATIN AMERICA

    Choosing the perfect venue is crucial for the success of any event in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events. Now more than ever, event organizers seek destinations that offer not only state-of-the-art facilities but also memorable experiences that resonate with attendees long after the event has concluded.In this context, Marriott hotels in Latin America stand out as favorites, given their commitment to excellence, strategic locations, and services tailored to meet even the most demanding event needs.
    Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen stands out for its innovative approach to sustainable meetings. The “Green Meetings” program is evidence of the hotel’s commitment to sustainability, offering event organizers the option to reduce environmental impact without compromising the quality or integrity of the event. This approach benefits not only the planet but also resonates with the growing demands of participants for more responsible practices.
    Marriott Panama Hotel, located next to the Albrook Mall, the largest shopping center in Central America, is strategically positioned to epitomize convenience and flexibility. The hotel features 21 meeting rooms and two ballrooms in nearly 50,000 square feet of event space, easily accommodating everything from small business meetings to large conventions and exhibitions.
    Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida, located in the paradisiacal Colombian Caribbean with international air connectivity, sets the stage for a seaside oasis within the magical city and offers an inspiring backdrop for an extraordinary life, work, or any special event. The natural beauty of the surroundings combined with top-notch facilities ensures that the overall experience is unparalleled, offering a perfect blend of business and pleasure.
    And in the Peruvian capital, Sheraton Lima Historic Center boasts a privileged location in the city’s historic center. The hotel not only offers spacious and multifunctional event spaces but also provides guests with the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the city’s rich culture and history. The fusion of modernity and tradition sets this hotel apart for events seeking something beyond the ordinary.ADVERTISEMENTFurthermore, through the Marriott Bonvoy Events platform, event organizers earn rewards for booking events, allowing them to earn points per qualifying event, with the possibility of elevating their Elite status and enjoying even more benefits. Additionally, points can be redeemed for VIP experiences, free nights, flights, car rentals, shopping, and more.
    Commitment to sustainability, strategic locations near shopping centers, proximity to wonderful natural environments, or rooted in cultural heritage: these are some of the reasons why Marriott hotels are preferred for hosting any type of events and conventions in unique settings. From the pristine beaches of Santa Marta, the cultural heart of Lima, the dynamic urban life of Panama City, to the lush nature in Costa Rica, all of these are incomparable locations for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions.

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    American Airlines orders 85 Boeing 737 MAX jets

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    American Airlines orders 85 Boeing 737 MAX jets

    Boeing and American Airlines have announced the carrier will further modernize its global fleet with its first order for the largest 737 MAX airplane. American is committing to 115 of the 737-10 model, which includes a new order for 85 jets and a conversion of a previous order for 30 of the smaller 737-8 variant. The airline is also announcing options to purchase 75 additional 737-10 jets in the future.“Over the past decade, we have invested heavily to modernize and simplify our fleet, which is the largest and youngest among U.S. network carriers,” said American’s CEO Robert Isom. “These orders will continue to fuel our fleet with newer, more efficient aircraft so we can continue to deliver the best network and record-setting operational reliability for our customers.”
    With this agreement, American will more than double its 737 MAX order book from about 70 airplanes to more than 150, supporting the airline’s long-term growth strategy with highly efficient jets for its domestic and short-haul international network. The 737-10 will complement American’s current fleet of 737-8 airplanes, allowing the airline to tap into the 737 MAX family’s commonality and flexibility to efficiently meet growing travel demand.
    737-8: Delivering improvements in fuel, emissions and cost performance, the 737-8 can fly 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km) and seats 162 to 210 passengers depending on configuration.737-10: Offering the best per-seat economics of any single-aisle airplane, the 737-10 can carry up to 230 passengers and offers a range of up to 3,100 nautical miles (5,740 km).“We deeply appreciate American Airlines’ trust in Boeing and its confidence in the 737 MAX family. American’s selection of the 737-10 will provide even greater efficiency, commonality and flexibility for its global network and operations,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Our team here at Boeing is committed to delivering on this new order and supporting American’s strategic growth with one of the industry’s largest and most modern fleets.”
    With firm orders for more than 150 737 MAXs and 25 787 Dreamliners, American will add more than 180 Boeing airplanes to its fleet in the next decade.
    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.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Wego and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority: “Pioneering Together to Showcase Bahrain”

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    Wego and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority: “Pioneering Together to Showcase Bahrain”

    Wego, the largest online travel marketplace in MENA (Middle East and North Africa), and the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority are coming together to promote Bahrain as a leading travel destination. This strategic partnership combines Wego’s cutting-edge travel technology with Bahrain’s abundant cultural heritage and diverse attractions, promising an unmatched experience for travelers worldwide.
    Wego, renowned for connecting millions of users to a wide array of travel options, is excited to join forces with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority to showcase the Kingdom’s unique attractions, historical landmarks, and warm hospitality. This collaboration signifies a shared commitment to enhancing Bahrain’s visibility on the global stage and driving tourism growth for the Kingdom.
    The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, recognizing Wego’s extensive reach and user-friendly platform as key assets to promote Bahrain’s beauty and charm. With its blend of modernity and tradition, Bahrain has much to offer, from vibrant markets and cultural festivals to historical sites and pristine beaches.
    “Wego is delighted to collaborate once again with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority to spotlight the incredible offerings of Bahrain,” said Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Business Officer of Wego. “Our platform is dedicated to inspiring and facilitating travel experiences, and we are eager to showcase Bahrain’s rich tapestry to our global audience. This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to promoting exceptional destinations and creating memorable journeys.”
    The co-marketing initiative will leverage Wego’s digital platform to feature dedicated sections highlighting Bahrain’s key attractions, travel tips, and exclusive promotions. The collaboration aims to position Bahrain as a top destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.ADVERTISEMENTBahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority is confident that this partnership will contribute to the Kingdom’s tourism goals and foster positive economic impacts.
    Together, Wego and the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority aim to showcase Bahrain as a must-visit destination, inviting travelers to explore its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique experiences.

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    MSC Cruises Enhances Onboard Connectivity with SpaceX’s Starlink Across Fleet

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    Experience St David’s Wales by Steam through Snowdonia

    To mark St David’s Day, welsh-based rail tour specialist Ffestiniog Travel has announced a second Snowdonian Steam Special weekend break in September 2024. The highlight will be a journey on the aptly named Snowdonian train on an 80-mile trip through North Wales’ spectacular Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. Travel the full length of both the Welsh Highland and Ffestiniog Railways over the course of one unforgettable day and help raise funds for the Diamond Jubilee Appeal to support the continued preservation of the railways. The 3-day break also includes an in-depth tour of the famous Boston Lodge Workshops. Beginning on 20 September and costing £515pp (two sharing) it includes 2 nights’ B&B 4* accommodation in Porthmadog, 1 dinner and 1 lunch plus a Snowdonian souvenir. Option to upgrade to a luxury stay at nearby Hotel Portmeirion in the famous Italianate village. https://www.ffestiniogtravel.com/tailored-rail/uk/the-snowdonian

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    PriceTravel lands at ITB as undisputed leader in the Americas

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    PriceTravel lands at ITB as undisputed leader in the Americas

    PriceTravel Holding, one of the biggest B2B and B2C travel companies in Latin America, is set to make a significant impact at ITB Berlin 2024. The company proudly announces an astounding +450% growth in its hotel portfolio through direct contracting, offering over 35,000 hotels and solidifying its position as a major player in the hospitality sector.This portfolio of hotels spans across 120 destinations, primarily in Latin America, the Caribbean, the United States, and Europe, ensuring a comprehensive and varied selection to meet B2B and B2C client demands. The key strategic agreements that position PriceTravel as the undisputed leader are based on three strategic pillars in terms of its contracted product:
    PriceTravel has secured 35 exclusive contracts with top hotel chains globally, marking a significant milestone in its journey. In 2023, the company closed exclusive agreements with major hotel chains, including Wyndham, Accor, Marriott, Hilton, Best Western, and Hyatt.German and European travel agencies and tour operators will also be able to benefit from PriceTravel’s extensive product as a result of being a key strategic partner for the distribution of theme parks such as Disney Destination and Universal Parks and Resorts in Mexico and LATAM.Also, thanks to the best-in-class technology, PriceTravel is positioned as unrivaled leaders in Las Vegas. The company has strategically partnered with all major chains in the destination, featuring prominent hotels such as MGM, Caesar Palace, and Wynn Las Vegas and experiencing a noteworthy +500% growth in sales over the last 12 months.Under the banner of its B2B Wholesale brand, known as Connect, the business unit specialises in B2B hotel distribution through API/XML integrations, offering innovative solutions tailored to wholesalers, tour operators, OTAs and other B2B2C buyers of accommodation.
    Ivonne Arriola, Wholesale Director at PriceTravel Holding, says: “This week PriceTravel Holding, through its Connect brand, lands for its first time at ITB Berlin. As we continue to soar to new heights, our outstanding growth in hotel offerings and strategic partnerships reflects our commitment to delivering unparalleled travel experiences to our partners globally. We are thrilled to showcase our achievements at ITB Berlin 2024 and reinforce our position as a major player in the global hospitality sector. Our success is driven by our dedicated team, cutting-edge technology, and unwavering commitment to excellence.”
    At the core of Connect’s prowess lies its state-of-the-art API platform. Delivering exceptional response times, with 99% of requests processed in under one second, the platform’s advanced technology sets it apart. Easy integration via gateways or direct connectivity positions Connect as an efficient and agile choice for its business partners.
    Connect not only delivers high-quality products but also backs its offerings with specialized B2B distribution customer service. Operating 24/7 and providing trilingual support (English, Spanish, and Portuguese), the brand ensures consistent and effective assistance. Each client is paired with a dedicated Account Manager within the region, delivering personalized and results-driven support.ADVERTISEMENT

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    SA Tourism aims for growth at ITB Berlin 2024 More

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    SA Tourism aims for growth at ITB Berlin 2024

    SOUTH African Tourism is making the most of the Internationale Tourismus-Borse (ITB) in Berlin, Germany to position the country as a preferred tourist destination.This global trade show will run from March 5 to 7, under the theme, “Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism. Together.”Forming part of the South Africa delegation, are 63 tourism products and services including 15 small medium and micro enterprises (SMME)s from across nine provinces representing the unique and culturally diverse tourism offering.
    “We are going to ITB 2024 as one ‘Team South Africa’ comprising a wide variety of products and experiences,” Nombulelo Guliwe, SA Tourism Chief Executive Officer, said.
    “We have put the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic behind us and we are pioneering our transition by ensuring that we showcase our exceptional tourism offering and indeed improve South Africa’s brand appeal and inspire travellers to choose to book and come visit South Africa.”
    South Africa is participating at ITB Berlin buoyed by its welcoming 8,5 million international tourists in 2023.
    Part of the engagements at ITB 2024 includes a “Destination South Africa Showcase” in the form of a media panel discussion.ADVERTISEMENTThis will be followed by a trade and media engagement session specifically tailored to afford all the South African SMMEs maximum networking opportunities.
    In 2023, South Africa saw 1,2 million tourist arrivals from Europe, a 38,2 percent increase compared to the same period in 2022.
    The United Kingdom remains the top European source market with 356 160 tourists choosing South Africa, marking a 25,8 percent growth compared to 2022.
    Germany experienced a 41,6 percent increase in arrivals, amounting to 245 259 tourists.
    This was followed by the Netherlands which saw an increase of 45,5 percent, amounting to 131 371 tourist arrivals in 2023.
    Source – CAJ News

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    Trip.com Group To Showcase New Consumer Trends and AI Innovations at ITB Berlin 2024

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