Eliana Willis

More stories

  • 163 Shares179 Views

    in organisations-operators

    ETIHAD AIRWAYS UNVEILS STUNNING NEW LOUNGES AT ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL’S NEW TERMINAL A

    Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has unveiled flagship premium lounges at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new Terminal A. This follows Etihad making history when it operated Terminal A’s first commercial flight on 31 October, and the new lounge is revealed ahead of the airline’s full transition to the new Terminal which is phased to take place between 9 and 14 November.Etihad’s impressive new lounges span three floors of Terminal A’s north side, nestled between Piers C and D. The First and Business lounges feature a range of dining options, relaxation and entertainment spaces to suit all guests, including the stunning Constellation Bar at the enclosed Roof Lounge.
    “When designing the Etihad Lounges in our new home, Terminal A, our teams thought through every detail, ensuring an experience that will delight our guests from the moment they step through the door,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad.
    “The lounge is a hugely important aspect of our guests’ journey and we wanted to curate an impressive experience that will leave them wanting to fly again soon. In true Etihad style, we’ve been innovative with the design and will offer a selection of memorable experiences whether our guests choose to relax, indulge in various dining options or enjoy a refreshing drink at the signature Constellation Bar,” he continued.The Etihad lounges are accessible to guests flying in Etihad’s The Residence, First and Business Class and Etihad Guest members with eligible tier status. Guests flying in Economy who wish to enjoy the exclusive lounge space can purchase access to Etihad’s Business Lounge subject to availability.
    The Lounge is conveniently located with access to three gates offering direct-lounge boarding on selected flights, meaning guests in premium cabins can board straight from the Lounge for convenience and speed.Within the Lounge, expansive views of the runway can be savoured from the calm and tranquil retreat offered in the East and West Study, which offers guests the perfect place to watch aircraft take-off or come in to land.
    ADVERTISEMENTDining decadence and Rooftop loungeEtihad’s Business Class lounge features an array of dining experiences. Liwan Global Dining is Etihad Lounge’s informal, all-day dining restaurant which offers an abundance of choice featuring live cooking stations, Emirati and Middle Eastern cuisines alongside international favourites inspired by the destinations Etihad flies to.
    Guests can also choose to dine at the Roof Lounge at select periods and enjoy an international buffet of hot and cold dishes.
    For those preferring something lighter, there are multiple stations across the lounge where guests can help themselves to a selection of snacks as well as hot and cold drinks.
    The Constellation Bar within the Roof Lounge is decorated with a 172 piece, 25m long bespoke glass lighting sculpture– Panora – which depicts the Abu Dhabi city skyline. The bar will serve a wide selection of cocktails, mocktails, wines and beverages, and is set to become a destination in itself for frequent travellers.
    The Relaxation Rooms provide private spaces complete with day beds and plush Armani Casa furnishings for guests to catch up on rest and refresh in one of the 18 beautifully appointed shower suites before their flight. Those preferring a more entertaining experience can head to the Games Room which is fully equipped with table football, air hockey and digital gaming options for all to enjoy.

    Family travellers continue to be important to Etihad and a bespoke Family Room has been thoughtfully designed with young travellers in mind, and comes packed with games, toys and books to keep little ones entertained. Additionally, Chesterfield sofas bring plush comfort to the Smoking Lounge for cigarette and cigar smokers.
    Prayer rooms have also been thoughtfully designed with ensuite ablution areas for comfort and convenience.

    A First class welcomeThe exclusive First lounge offers a dedicated reception lobby for Etihad’s most premium guests and a private elevator to access the Rooftop Lounge on the top floor of the complex.The First Lounge Dining Room offers an elevated dining experience with à la carte dining and a fine and boutique wine selection recommended by in-house experts. The cuisine will reflect the best of Emirati gastronomy as well as the destinations Etihad flies to.In The Parlour for First customers will be treated to a decadent selection of pastries, desserts and a signature tea experience in an elegant setting. The experience includes an array of tea ceremonies as well as signature coffee presentation.
    For the ultimate relaxation and indulgence before flying, First class Private Suites are available for guests to work, relax and dine in complete privacy. The Private Suites are complimentary for guests flying in The Residence and available for booking by all other First class lounge guests.
    On arrival in Abu DhabiIn addition to the First and Business class lounges in Departures, premium guests arriving in Abu Dhabi with pre-booked chauffeur services will be invited to visit the Etihad Chauffeur Lounge to shower, refresh or simply grab a quick snack or drink before meeting their chauffeur.

    Older
    VISIT PORTUGAL GEARS UP FOR LARGEST PARTICIPATION EVER AT WORLD TRAVEL MARKET

    Newer
    Chestertons Global gallops ahead with launch of Chestertons Polo in the Park Dubai More

  • 150 Shares169 Views

    in organisations-operators

    VISIT PORTUGAL GEARS UP FOR LARGEST PARTICIPATION EVER AT WORLD TRAVEL MARKET

    Visit Portugal is excited to announce its participation, with the largest-ever delegation of 108 Portuguese tourism companies, in the World Travel Market, one of the most influential events in the global tourism industry.
    Nuno Fazenda, the Secretary of State for Tourism, stated: “I am very pleased to attend WTM this year, be a witness of the largest Portuguese participation ever in this relevant fair, in the UK, the Portugal’s primary tourism market, with proposals for every British targets. We’re committed with the development and promotion of differentiated tourist experiences, which adds value to the territories and to the tourists, making Portugal more attractive, and fulfilling our objective of growing. We have a strong purpose of welcoming everyone and respecting the differences and stands by the mission of affirming Portugal as one of the most competitive, safe, and sustainable destinations in the world.”
    The increased presence of Portuguese companies at WTM reflects the keen interest of Portugal in expanding the business within the UK market, demonstrates the strong bilateral relations between Portugal and the UK and provides an ideal platform for showcasing Portugal’s remarkable appeal as a travel destination.

    We highlight the relevance of the UK market that stands as the primary tourism market for Portugal, consistently delivering impressive results, so far. Comparing 2019, from January to August 2023 there is a growth in overnight stays of 5% and 11% in tourism revenues.ADVERTISEMENTAdditionally, visitors from the UK made up the largest share of international overnight stays in Portugal with an increase of over 5%. This remarkable growth cements Portugal’s position as a favourite destination among UK travellers. Furthermore, international airport arrivals also grew by 11% in 2023 vs 2019, while the year-on-year growth (2023 vs 2022) grew by nearly one quarter (24%).

    As part of the strategic approach to the tourism industry, Portugal has managed to stand out and reinvent itself, introducing a rich and high-quality range of tourism experiences that encompass wine tourism, nature, cultural heritage, art, literature, architecture, and gastronomy, which are all available year-round across Portugal.

    Sustainability and authenticity are also at the forefront of Portugal’s tourism plan, which is committed to funding tourism investment projects, supporting and prioritising investments in technology, infrastructures, and human resources. Portugal is dedicated to promoting tourism to the interior regions of the country, with the goal to achieving year-round tourism across the entire territory, enhancing the quality of life for locals, attracting people to the region, and revitalising kpthe places, traditions, history, and local culture.

    Visit Portugal extends a warm invitation to all attendees to visit their stand at WTM 2023, where guests can explore the myriad offerings of Portugal and engage with representatives from a diverse and dynamic tourism industry.

    Visit Portugal looks forward to welcoming visitors at Visit Portugal stand N4-200.For more information, please visit: www.visitportugal.com

    Older
    Increased airlift will cement Barbados as ‘must-see’ destination

    Newer
    ETIHAD AIRWAYS UNVEILS STUNNING NEW LOUNGES AT ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL’S NEW TERMINAL A More

  • 163 Shares109 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Andalucía heads to World Travel Market in London in search of younger tourists

    A new tourism campaign, Andalusian Crush, uses the region’s rich cultural identity to showcase the area to potential future visitors, with a Game of Thrones theme
    Andalucía heads to its most important travel fair next week with a clear plan. The region’s stand will open at the World Travel Market in London on Monday to the sound of Andalusian Crush, its striking new tourist promotion campaign.
    Images from the Games of Thrones-style campaign will also go outside the ExCel centre, where the fair is held, to reach the general public with advertising in iconic locations such as Leicester Square, Westminster Bridge, Camden Town and Portobello Road.
    The Junta de Andalucía’s main goal this year is to attract new tourists and aims to promote the region as an ‘influencer’ destination, with a focus on the so-called Generation Z.
    After the new campaign video was released this week, the regional tourism minister Arturo Bernal said on Thursday that their aim at the WTM was to “continue to break moulds”.The objective is to attract new profiles of visitors, putting a focus on young people who will be the tourists of the future, said Bernal.ADVERTISEMENTThe minister added, “The promotion is aimed at people born between 1995 and 2010, who in 66% of cases already make the decision about where their family goes on holiday and in a few years’ time will be customers themselves. We have to take strategic positions with the Generation Z. The new campaign is essential for that,” said the regional minister.
    Six million visitsFor this new campaign, the Junta de Andalucía wanted to focus solely on the deepest feelings that the culture of Andalucía evokes in visitors, rather than landscapes.
    The theme of the one-minute video dubbed ‘Andalusian Crush’, refers to the inner impact a culture so rich leaves behind in its visitors. Its message is that no one remains the same after experiencing this destination, as warned at the beginning of the video by the voice of actor Peter Dinklage, one of the main characters in Game of Thrones.
    Source: https://www.surinenglish.com/

    Older
    Victory for Vattanac Golf Resort West Course at World Golf Awards 2023

    Newer
    Increased airlift will cement Barbados as ‘must-see’ destination More

  • 100 Shares149 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Majorca to unveil new strategy for managing tourism

    A new strategy for managing tourism on Majorca is to be unveiled this week during World Travel Market.
    The Balearic island’s tourism board and its council under new leadership will present the plans to UK and international markets.Details of a “unique initiative” that will shape the strategy of Majorca’s leading industry is due to be outlined tomorrow (Tuesday) at the show in London.
    The plan is designed to position the island as a “secure, innovative, and sustainable” destination in the British market.
    The island’s delegation will also meet with key stakeholders in the UK tourism sector, including Abta, Tui, EasyJet, British Airways, Jet2, Expedia, Your Holidays and Travelzoo.
    Majorca’s presence at WTM “represents a significant opportunity to strengthen the destination’s tourism strategy in a new leadership era for the island’s tourism,” according to the tourism board.ADVERTISEMENTThe tourism management strategy is due to be outlined by top officials including Antònia Roca, vice president of the island’s council and the highest-ranking official in its culture department.
    Representatives from the four Balearic islands will also be present for a discussion panel today (Monday).
    Source: https://travelweekly.co.uk/

    Older
    EASYJET IS ALL SET TO LAUNCH S.FLEET PERFORMANCE +

    Newer
    Victory for Vattanac Golf Resort West Course at World Golf Awards 2023 More

  • 175 Shares129 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Southwest Airlines Partners with USA BioEnergy for 680 Million Gallons of Sustainable Aviation Fuel

    Southwest Airlines Co. (“Southwest”) announced an offtake agreement with USA BioEnergy, LLC (“USA BioEnergy”), for up to 680 million gallons of neat sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Over the term of the 20-year agreement, once blended with conventional jet fuel, the SAF could produce the equivalent of 2.59 billion gallons of net-zero1 fuel and avoid 30 million metric tons of CO2. Southwest® plans to begin purchasing SAF from USA BioEnergy’s facility near Bon Wier, Texas, as early as 2028. Additionally, as part of the offtake agreement, Southwest and USA BioEnergy have established a long-term strategic relationship offering Southwest the opportunity to purchase up to another projected 180 million gallons of SAF per year from future planned production facilities.
    “This offtake agreement with USA BioEnergy marks important progress in the development of our SAF portfolio and furthers our goal to replace 10 percent of our total jet fuel consumption with SAF by 2030,” said Michael AuBuchon, Managing Director Fuel Strategy and Management at Southwest Airlines. “We look forward to the opportunity to grow our strategic relationship with USA BioEnergy and potentially purchase more SAF from them in the future.”
    “Our agreement with Southwest Airlines is a perfect fit because it aligns Southwest’s goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and USA BioEnergy’s goal of becoming the leading producer of carbon-negative fuel,” said David Prom, Chairman of the Board, Co-Founder of USA BioEnergy. “USA BioEnergy is excited to work with Southwest on this initial project and, potentially, future sites we may add in our pipeline.”
    Southwest recognizes the critical role that commercially viable SAF will play in the carrier’s strategy to achieve its near-term and long-term carbon goals and is taking action to forge relationships across the aviation value chain to proactively address the challenges on the path to its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050. For more on the carrier’s SAF strategy, visit southwest.com/SAF.
    Net zero is determined by a fuel with a carbon intensity of zero (0) gCO2e/MJ or lower on a lifecycle basis.ADVERTISEMENT

    Older
    Qatar Airways Celebrates 10 Years of Strong Partnership with oneworld Alliance

    Newer
    China Eastern to increase weekly international, regional flights to over 1,000 More

  • 150 Shares159 Views

    in organisations-operators

    IHG Hotels & Resorts Announces New Luxury Vignette Collection Hotel in Dubai

    IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a franchise agreement for its second Vignette Collection hotel in Dubai in partnership with The Heart of Europe, the flagship project under Kleindienst Group. Scheduled for a grand opening in January 2026, Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai, will mark a significant milestone for The Heart of Europe, solidifying IHG’s presence within The World Islands – an archipelago of manmade islands located in the Arabian Gulf, off the coast of Dubai.
    The Vignette Collection brand allows owners of world-class independent hotels to retain their distinctive identity while benefitting from IHG’s global scale and luxury and lifestyle expertise.
    The upcoming Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai, is located in ‘The Heart of Europe’, a self-sustaining holiday destination spanning across six islands, each blending European architectural charm with top-tier hospitality, embracing luxury and innovation on shores of tranquil beaches.
    The Heart of Europe encompasses a variety of opulent properties, including beachfront villas, premium hotels, an innovative underwater living experience, and an array of top-tier amenities such as climate-controlled streets and the coral institute dedicated to preserving and revitalising the marine ecosystem.
    Once completed, Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai will feature 150 rooms overlooking the Arabian Gulf in a prime location along a pristine beach and crystal-clear sea. True to the Vignette Collection brand, the property will seamlessly merge exclusivity with community and locality and feature a unique Andalusian-inspired design with contemporary architecture.ADVERTISEMENTHaitham Mattar, Managing Director – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented: “We are excited to partner with The Heart of Europe to bring the second Vignette Collection resort to Dubai, a testament to IHG’s commitment to delivering exceptional stays and experiences for our guests. Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai will significantly reimagine luxury and set future regional hospitality benchmarks. We look forward to welcoming travellers worldwide upon the hotel’s opening in 2026.”
    With the property currently under construction, Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai is expected to become a key proof point in IHG’s ambition to create unparalleled guest experiences and set new standards for luxury in the region.
    Josef Kleindienst, Founder and Chairman of Kleindienst Group and The Heart of Europe, said: “It is an honour to partner with one of the world’s leading hotel groups to bring the Vignette Collection brand to The World Islands Dubai. This collaboration aligns with our vision of creating a unique destination in one of the world’s most iconic cities, and true to our commitment to excellence, Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection The World Islands Dubai promises to offer guests a remarkable and distinctive stay, drawing inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Dubai and presenting a perfect blend of luxury, innovation, and the beauty of the UAE.”
    IHG currently operates 108 hotels across eight brands in the Middle East, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites, Hotel Indigo, voco and Six Senses.

    Older
    Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ubud, Bali, Launches ‘Disconnect to Reconnect’ Wellness Program

    Newer
    Qatar Airways Celebrates 10 Years of Strong Partnership with oneworld Alliance More

  • 163 Shares149 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ubud, Bali, Launches ‘Disconnect to Reconnect’ Wellness Program

    Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, a sanctuary nestled amidst the lush surroundings of Ubud, Bali with the Ayung River floating peacefully alongside, is excited to announce its latest offering: the Disconnect to Reconnect program. Crafted by the resort, this wellness journey invites all guests to detach from their everyday routines and the pressures of modern life. In harmony with Bali’s rich heritage of healing and spirituality, Disconnect to Reconnect is designed to cultivate mindfulness, encourage inner reflection, and provide a path to rejuvenation.
    Empowering travelers to temporarily escape the hustle of fast-paced modern life, and an interconnected world, and rediscover their true selves, this innovative endeavor offers a daily program featuring a curated selection of 14 activities – all-inclusive. These activities aim to heighten guests’ awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and sensations, ultimately fostering a profound sense of mindfulness and inner tranquility.
    Every day, four different Disconnect to Reconnect experiences are held on a rotating basis, giving guests the opportunity to experience each unique offering during their stay. The new program features:
    Breathwork and Vibrational Sound Therapy to relieve chronic stress, reduce anxiety, and improve concentration for a calmer and more peaceful state of mind. Aquatic Therapy alleviates physical discomfort while in the water, while Quantum Healing aims to gain insights into current life challenges by guiding guests through visualization, and Chakra Balancing offers a holistic approach to energy alignment and self-healing.
    Mandala Art engages travelers in creative expression, the Culinary Dessert Delight activity focuses on sustainability and reducing food waste, the Balinese Medicinal Plants Workshop teaches the traditional use of plants, and the Balinese Cooking class showcases cooking techniques that prioritize the use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from Mandapa’s very own garden.ADVERTISEMENTAdditional experiences include Women Circle Healing and Unveiling Masculine Healing, designed specifically for women and men, Yoga classes, Pranasudi Activation to promote equilibrium in the nervous system, and Emotional Release, which focuses on the transformative practice of journaling.

    Older
    7th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism in La Rioja, Spain to Explore Sustainable Future

    Newer
    IHG Hotels & Resorts Announces New Luxury Vignette Collection Hotel in Dubai More

  • 188 Shares169 Views

    in organisations-operators

    7th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism in La Rioja, Spain to Explore Sustainable Future

    With a strong focus on the future of wine tourism, the 7th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism will be held in La Rioja, Spain (22-24 November 2023), one of the world’s leading wine regions. This event will gather diverse industry players around data, governance, innovation, sustainability, and skills.
    Co-organized by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Government of La Rioja and the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism of Spain, the Conference will emphasize the pivotal role of this sector in promoting rural development, sustainable practices, and regional regeneration.
    Innovation: Bridging Tradition and Technology
    Against the backdrop of a landscape where tradition converges with technology, the Conference will shine a light on the seamless integration of wine tourism with the evolving preferences of tourists. The programme will address innovative digital tools and the exploration of new strategies to amplify outreach via social media platforms, reaching larger audiences and increasing visitor flow.
    Skills: Cultivating Excellence in Wine TourismADVERTISEMENTThe Conference will underscore the importance of identifying and fostering skills development to enhance expertise, knowledge, and service quality, as a precursor to crafting a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive wine tourism industry.
    Data: Guiding the Future
    Data can play a significant role in shaping wine tourism. Attendees will explore the mapping of existing metrics and methodologies to quantify wine tourism to create common frameworks.
    Governance: Crafting Partnerships for Growth
    The complex network of stakeholders in wine tourism requires adapted governance, including the significance of fostering public-private collaboration. The Conference will spotlight community engagement and coordination, both at local and national levels, as essential drivers for the sector’s sustainable growth.
    Nurturing Sustainability and Rural Development for a more Inclusive Tomorrow
    Sustainability is at the heart of wine tourism’s future. Destination managers and experts will showcase sustainable practices that embrace the principles of the circular economy. The Conference will also address the pivotal role of wine tourism in supporting rural development, revitalizing overlooked regions, tackling demographic challenges, and nurturing entrepreneurship for rural growth.
    In the midst of the famous wine tourism hub of Barrio de la Estación in the city of Haro, a series of masterclasses will offer attendees an immersive journey into the art of wine pairing across various domains. These sessions will explore the fusion of wine with gastronomy, art and culture, its synergies with communication, branding, technology, events, and sustainability, promising enlightening and enriching experiences.
    To further enhance the experience, participants will also have the opportunity to discover the renowned Vivanco Museum, recognized for its pioneering role and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rich wine culture.

    Older
    Emirates Group Unites Diverse Workforce to Honor UAE Flag Day and Promote National Unity

    Newer
    Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ubud, Bali, Launches ‘Disconnect to Reconnect’ Wellness Program More