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    Sustainable Hospitality Challenge 2024 Unleashes Innovation Worldwide

    Amidst record-breaking participation from over 70 universities worldwide, the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge (SHC) by Hotelschool The Hague launches its 10th edition, signaling a new era of sustainable hospitality.
    “In recent years, our focus has been on pioneering groundbreaking hospitality concepts for a future in and beyond 2050. This year, we shift gears to create an immediate impact within existing hospitality concepts. Our aim is to bring about real, significant global change. By simplifying the case, we open doors to diverse ideas and solutions, fostering an environment where multiple innovations can come to life. This aligns with our vision to initiate an incubator program, supporting students and their ideas beyond the challenge. Preliminary trials for this program will debut this year. Whether simple and cost-effective or a multi-million-dollar investment, a great product can leave a lasting impact while reinforcing sustainable practices.”
    In an exciting move, the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge is expanding its semi-finals to three global events, collaborating with local institutions with a longstanding presence in the challenge. The semi-finals, held from late April to the end of May, will take place in Montreux, Switzerland, in collaboration with the Swiss Hotel Management School; in Bangkok, Thailand, in conjunction with DUSIT Thani College; and in Miami, Florida, USA, in partnership with Florida International University. The expansion provides more student teams the opportunity to showcase their ideas globally and connect with peers and jury members from around the world.
    The online Qualification Round submission took place at the beginning of March 2024, with qualifying teams invited to participate in the Regional Semi-Finals in May 2024, where they will pitch their products live. The top-performing teams will advance to the Finals in October 2024 in Dubai, UAE, which form part of the Future Hospitality Summit, marking a pivotal moment in shaping the future of sustainable hospitality.
    To discover the next wave of groundbreaking innovations and stay updated on Sustainable Hospitality Challenge’s LinkedIn page, please visit: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sustainable-hospitality-challenge/ADVERTISEMENT

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    Avani Hotels & Resorts Set to Make a Splash in The Netherlands with Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam

    Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group operating more than 540 hotels in 56 countries, is introducing Avani Hotels & Resorts to the Netherlands in Q2 of this year. The rebranded 163-key Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam will provide a contemporary canal-side experience, blending Dutch art and history for business and leisure travellers.
    Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam is centrally located in Amsterdam’s cultural hub, near landmarks like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Drawing inspiration from the Stedelijk Museum, the hotel’s design blends avant-garde aesthetics with rationalist architecture. Its sleek glass façade will be balanced by vibrant, playful interiors and complemented by high gloss finishes that pay homage to Amsterdam’s iconic canals.
    The hotel’s modern rooms and suites, complete with 60s-inspired furniture, will be spread across seven floors, some boasting floor-to-ceiling windows. All will be equipped with the latest mod-cons, including a power shower, coffee machine, garment steamer, yoga mat, and a high-quality Bluetooth speaker. In-room dining will be available 24/7, emphasising healthy, fresh and satisfying options. For fitness enthusiasts, the AvaniFit gym will operate around the clock, featuring state-of-the-art cardio machines. In addition, the nearby Vondelpark provides excellent jogging tracks.
    On the hotel’s ground level, an open-floor lobby lounge will share space with The Pantry, Avani’s signature grab-and-go dining concept. Here, guests will be able to start their day in the Dutch capital with a delicious breakfast featuring local favourites alongside hot dishes made à la minute and served indoors, or on the al fresco terrace. For wellness-minded travellers, the menu will feature plenty of healthy snacks, including vegan bites and smoothies.
    The bustling PC Hooftstraat shopping district and the De Pijp neighbourhood are within a leisurely five-minute stroll. Amsterdam Central Station is a mere ten-minute drive away, ensuring seamless connectivity for travellers. For corporate engagements, the hotel will provide a stylish boardroom, while the RAI Exhibition and Convention Centre is a short tram ride away.ADVERTISEMENT“Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam marks a significant milestone for Minor Hotels, reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences across the globe. With this upcoming opening, Avani guests will be able to immerse themselves in the art-led design of our newest gem in the Netherlands”. Mr. Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels
    The upcoming launch of Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam follows the recent expansion of the brand in Europe. Properties were added in Madrid, Milan and Venice last year, followed by the opening of Avani Frankfurt City Hotel at the start of 2024, in addition to the upcoming debut of the Avani brand in China. With a strong presence in Asia, the Middle East, and Sub-Saharan Africa, Avani’s expansion into new destinations continues in 2024 with plans to more than double its property count to almost 100 by the end of 2026.

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    IHG Hotels & Resorts Partners with EnviroSpark to Expand Electric Vehicle Charging Across America

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    IHG Hotels & Resorts Partners with EnviroSpark to Expand Electric Vehicle Charging Across America

    IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) announced an agreement with EnviroSpark, an industry leader in the design, installation, and operation of electrical vehicle (EV) charging solutions, to make electric vehicle chargers (EVCs) available to all IHG-branded hotels across the United States and Canada. IHG hotels can now partner with EnviroSpark on EVCs depending on their individual needs and requirements. This agreement will further expand on IHG’s 1,100 hotels globally with EVCs, and meet the growing customer demand for EV charging on the road while supporting a shift to a low-carbon economy.
    The EVCs that will be available at IHG-branded hotels in North America are well suited for travelers needing an overnight charge. To help travelers plan ahead, IHG has added an EV-charger search filter on its award-winning IHG One Rewards mobile app alongside a wide set of mapping features.
    The adoption of electric vehicles is rising sharply as the global push for net-zero carbon emissions accelerates. According to Goldman Sachs Research, EVs will make up about half of new car sales worldwide by 2035.
    Brian McGuinness, SVP of Global Guest Experience, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “Providing guests with more EV-charging convenience is a natural next step for IHG. With iconic road-trip brands such as Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express, taking care of travelers on the road is core to what we do every day. Through our agreement with EnviroSpark, we’re providing even more options for IHG owners to install EVCs at hotels while making travel easier for a growing segment of sustainability-minded travelers.”
    Aaron Luque, Founder and CEO, EnviroSpark, said: “We’re honored to join forces with IHG Hotels & Resorts in expanding EV charger availability at their North American properties. The partnership reflects our shared commitment to a sustainable economy and aligns with the rising demand for eco-friendly travel options. Together, we aim to create a seamless and environmentally friendly experience for travelers, contributing to a greener future and bringing us closer to our vision of widespread EV adoption.”ADVERTISEMENTTo help accelerate the EV charging infrastructure emerging in North America, IHG is also supporting hotel owners with an EV charging guide with best practices to encourage installation of EV chargers across its portfolio of more than 4,100 open hotels in the U.S. and Canada.
    IHG’s collaboration with EnviroSpark aligns to the company’s responsible business plan, Journey to Tomorrow, which includes a set of ambitious sustainability commitments to drive change for people, communities and the planet. This partnership is also one example of how IHG is working with an increasing number of diverse suppliers through its supplier diversity program EPIC and engaging more companies who share IHG’s values. To learn more about IHG’s commitment to responsible business, visit www.ihgplc.com/en/responsible-business.

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    AOA Unveils Exciting Agenda for Aerospace and Air Traffic Conference

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    AOA Unveils Exciting Agenda for Aerospace and Air Traffic Conference

    The Airport Operators Association, the trade association for UK airports, is delighted to unveil the agenda for its upcoming Aerospace and Air Traffic Conference sponsored by Egis and being held at the Renaissance Hotel London Heathrow on 25 April 2024.
    Delegates at the conference will be able to hear from speakers from the Department for Transport, the CAA, NATS, and a host of other organisations. Topics for discussion include the next phase of airspace modernisation, the integration of drones and eVTOL users into airspace and developing better air traffic management resilience.
    Speaking about the conference, AOA’s Airport Regulation Manager, Adele Gammarano said:
    “The Conference will provide members with an outstanding opportunity to delve into specialist topics related to airspace and air traffic services.
    “It will also be a brilliant chance to network and share insights on these important topics from both a strategic and operational perspective.ADVERTISEMENT“Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the topics and have the opportunity to shape upcoming changes and reduce the industry’s impact, with presentations and discussions from field experts.”
    This conference follows the success of the AOA’s Operations and Safety conference last November, and planning for this event has involved close collaboration with the association’s Airspace and Air Traffic Services (AATS) working group. Its members’ insights into key topics have proven invaluable in shaping the agenda to ensure it will be as useful as it can be to air traffic professionals.
    Also commenting on the conference, Nicole Park, Head of Air Traffic Services at London Southend Airport and co-chair of the AOA’s AATS working group, said:
    “The agenda brings to life the challenges and opportunities of the industry and can only serve to assist and enrich the workstreams of each attendee. Every session is relevant, purposeful and insightful which I’m sure will create a collaborative and successful day for all involved.”
    And Matt Wilshaw-Rhead, ANSP Safety & Compliance Manager from Birmingham Airport and co-chair of the AOA’s AATS working group, said:
    “The AOA plays a pivotal role in the collaboration between airports, industry and regulatory authorities.  It takes concepts of innovation, regulatory change and airport challenges and supports all entities in achieving as positive outcome.  The conference is an opportunity to delve deeper into the detail of the bow wave of key topics that will shape the UK aviation market into the next generation.”

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    Heathrow’s ‘Fly Up’ Breakfast Raises Awareness of Sustainable Aviation Fuel

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    Heathrow’s ‘Fly Up’ Breakfast Raises Awareness of Sustainable Aviation Fuel

    Heathrow Airport has launched a groundbreaking breakfast called “The Fly Up” in collaboration with Heston Blumenthal’s Perfectionists’ Café to raise awareness of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The breakfast, cooked with oil that is recycled into renewable biofuels, aims to educate travelers about the importance of SAF in reducing the aviation industry’s carbon footprint.
    The Heathrow Fly Up has been created in partnership with chef Heston Blumenthal to create awareness of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in response to only 14 per cent[1] of travellers having heard of it, despite the fact it will play a key role in reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation industry. In the UK aviation sector’s latest net zero roadmap, SAF is the single biggest innovation that will help it hit its Net Zero target by 2050.
    Heathrow is committed to decarbonising, and biofuels have a key role to play in its Net Zero plan. On the ground, Heathrow has made the switch to HVO biodiesel with over 95 per cent of its operational diesel fleet now run on the fuel. It is a global airport leader on SAF – setting a goal for 11 per cent of the jet fuel used at Heathrow to be SAF by 2030. Heathrow’s pioneering Sustainable Aviation Fuel scheme incentivises the use of SAF at the airport, approximately halving the price gap between conventional jet fuel and SAF, making it more affordable to airlines. Thanks, in part to this scheme, approximately 10 per cent of the world’s SAF was used at Heathrow in 2022.[2]
    The scheme aims to target 2.5% of all fuel used at Heathrow to be SAF in 2024. If achieved, this will amount to up to 155,000 tonnes of fuel. It is a key part of Heathrow’s ongoing efforts to protect the benefits of aviation while building a more sustainable future for the industry.
    To help reach Net Zero by 2050, the airport’s shorter term goal is to cut carbon from the air by up to 15 per cent, and on the ground at the airport by at least 45 per cent, by the end of this decade. These goals have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative[3] as consistent with a 1.5 degree carbon reduction trajectory – Heathrow was the first airport to achieve this validated status with the updated 1.5 degrees standard[4].ADVERTISEMENTSAF is a fuel with a significantly smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional jet fuel and is made from a variety of sources, including used cooking oils[5]. It can be used in aircraft engines alongside regular fuel and the UK aviation sector projects that it will account for around 40 per cent of the aviation industry’s total carbon reductions by 2050.
    Heathrow works with waste management service Quatra to collect, clean and recycle the used cooking oils from the Fly Up breakfast. Following collection, the cooking oils and fats undergo treatment and purification to remove organic impurities and water. The processed used oil is then forwarded to Quatra’s partners and transformed into biofuels including Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).
    The launch of the Fly Up comes as new research reveals only one quarter (27 per cent) of the UK believe SAF will make the aviation industry more sustainable[6]. Heathrow is actively encouraging passengers to join its efforts in addressing aviation’s carbon emissions by using climate tech company, CHOOOSE. The platform gives passengers the option to support SAF or certified reforestation projects regardless of their airline or end destination.
    The aim is that this will become more commonplace as people learn about the benefits of SAF. Currently 63 per cent would choose to travel more sustainably if they could, yet nine in 10 flyers are unaware of the purpose of SAF – one of the most important factors in reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation industry.[7]
    Matt Gorman, Director of Carbon at Heathrow said: “We are delighted to partner with Heston Blumenthal’s The Perfectionists’ Café to introduce the ‘Fly Up’, a breakfast that not only gives passengers a delicious start to the day but will raise awareness about SAF and its potential to transform this industry. By demonstrating how cooking oils can be converted into biofuels, we want people to understand how SAF is a real solution to decarbonise aviation and show how we’re continuing our mission to get to Net Zero by 2050.
    “We know that having the right government policies in place is crucial to making this shift happen. We need a mandate for SAF use, as well as a price support mechanism, to de-risk and incentivise investment in UK SAF facilities.”
    Carlos Santos, Head Chef at The Perfectionists’ Cafe said: “This is an exciting partnership that we are thrilled to be part of. The ‘Fly Up’ is made up of the best of British ingredients – a breakfast we’re proud of, and even more so as it signifies a positive step towards a more sustainable future for air travel.”
    Karolien De Hertogh, Director Sales U.K. and Ireland at United Airlines said: “At United, we are committed to our goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and believe SAF is the nearest term and most promising solution to decarbonise aviation. United became the first airline globally to use a SAF blend in regular operations and we endeavour to increase its availability and usage by looking beyond existing solutions and investing in future potential research, production and technology solutions associated with SAF. We are an airline that recognises the responsibility we have to help solve climate change and welcome Heathrow’s ‘Fly Up’ to raise awareness of SAF.”[8]
    The net zero transition for aviation is happening. Heathrow has a clear plan and is working hard to deliver against our ambitious 2030 carbon reduction goals. United was one of the participating airlines in Heathrow’s SAF incentive programme, having received a blend of SAF and conventional jet fuel at the airport in 2023. In November last year, Heathrow celebrated the first ever transatlantic 100% SAF flight flown by a commercial airline, Virgin Atlantic. Its financial incentive to airlines to use SAF more is targeting the equivalent of over 340,000 tonnes of carbon cut from flights. £71m is available to airlines to support the swap to cleaner fuels.
    Travellers can learn more about SAF, the role it plays in driving the aviation industry towards decarbonising, and how they can support Heathrow’s push to create a domestic UK SAF industry by visiting www.heathrow.com/SAF.

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    Dubrovnik Wins Europe’s Leading Cruise Destination Award at World Travel Awards 2024

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    Dubrovnik Wins Europe’s Leading Cruise Destination Award at World Travel Awards 2024

    As part of the prestigious World Travel Awards ceremony 2024, held on March 6th in Berlin, Dubrovnik earned recognition in the category of Europe’s Leading Cruise Destination 2024.
    Following three awards received at the World Travel Awards in 2023, Dubrovnik has once again been declared the leading European cruising destination. The city first won this award in 2021, followed by another win in 2023.Dubrovnik secured the award for Europe’s leading cruising destination among 10 other cities, including Athens, Cannes, Copenhagen, Edinburgh, Lisbon, Oslo, Venice, and three Turkish cities – Bodrum, Izmir, and Kuşadası. Voting for the European categories of the World Travel Awards lasted until February 4th, 2024, and was conducted by tourism professionals, media, and tourist consumers.
    It’s worth mentioning that last year, Dubrovnik won three awards at the World Travel Awards; in September, it was declared the Leading European Cruise Destination in Georgia, as well as the Leading Coastal City Destination in Europe, while in December, it was named the Leading World Coastal City Destination at the final ceremony in Dubai.
    The World Travel Awards is a prestigious travel and tourism awards program, and winning in this category is recognized as the gold standard worldwide. This award serves as an incentive for the destination and all stakeholders to continue strategic activities that further strengthen Dubrovnik’s position as a globally recognized promoter of responsible destination management on the path to sustainable development.
    Source: https://www.thedubrovniktimes.com/ADVERTISEMENT

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    Two Scottish distilleries named as top attractions for 2024 at World Travel Awards

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    Two Scottish distilleries named as top attractions for 2024 at World Travel Awards

    The World Travel Awards – dubbed the ‘Oscars of tourism’ – have been announced for 2024 and two Scottish distilleries plus a number of hotels have triumphed.
    The Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery, located in Muir of Ord, has been named Scotland’s Leading Distillery Tour 2024 and The Glentlivet was named Scotland’s Leading Whisky Distillery Tour 2024.The Singleton of Glen Ord, which re-opened its doors in 2022 as part of Diageo’s £185-million investment into Scotch tourism, is a celebration of the best of Scotland and was created with the vision of not only honouring the slow-crafted single malt and its history, but also to give locals and tourists an immersive experience, where they can explore everything the Highlands has to offer.
    Sitting on the famous North Coast 500 route and accessible by bus or train from Inverness, the visitor attraction is known for working closely with suppliers from around the area to provide visitors with local produce, space for home-grown artists, as well as immersive and unusual whisky tasting experiences.
    The Glenlivet reopened its visitor centre in 2021 after a renovation by owners Pernod Ricard.The new space has a lounge area, bar, shop with fill your own bottle stations and archive area and has been designed to feel cosy and welcoming with a palette of teal, green, orange and neutrals that reflect the ever changing Speyside landscape.
    The Glenlivet was named World’s Leading Whisk(e)y Distillery Tour in the 2022 World Travel AwardsADVERTISEMENTThe Singleton Distillery was named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Icons of Whisky Scotland and World Whiskies Awards 2024 in December last year, as well as a Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award having been consistently rated by the public as a five-star attraction in 2023.
    Leigh Aitken, Brand Home Manager at The Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery, said: “To be named as Scotland’s Leading Distillery Tour by one of the biggest tourism award bodies in the world is such an honour.
    “Scotland is famous for our unmatched larder, scenery, and of course whiskies and in particular has so to come out on top of this category is testament to the versatile offering we have here, thanks to our team of whisky experts, bartenders, and local suppliers who each give us that extra something special.”Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh, another piece of Diageo’s investment into Scotch tourism was also awarded at the ceremony which took place in Berlin.
    The visitor attraction, which gained the title of the World’s Leading Spirit Experience last year’s WTAs was named Europe’s Leading Spirit Tourism Experience 2024, adding a list of industry leading accolades.
    The full list of Scottish winners can be viewed on the World Travel Awards website. www.worldtravelawards.com“As an official partner of the North Coast 500, and one of the closest single malt distilleries to Inverness we look forward to welcoming even more people into the Highlands to try out our award-winning whisky experiences.

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    CASA PALACIO DON RAMÓN WINS BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN EUROPE (WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2024)

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    CASA PALACIO DON RAMÓN WINS BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN EUROPE (WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2024)

    The Andalusian hotel group Kaizen Hoteles has shone at the World Travel Awards, known as the “Oscars” of tourism, held in Berlin, where the 5 Star Grand Luxury Casa Palacio Don Ramón has emerged as the best boutique hotel in Europe, beating a total of nine finalists.  The awards ceremony was attended by the director of Casa Palacio Don Ramón, Saray Castaño, the president of Kaizen Hotels, Marisa de Ázcárate and the director of Group Operations Almudena Moreno and director of Casa Palacio María Luisa.  Saray Castaño was especially proud that Seville has been recognised as ‘the elite, amongst the most exclusive tourism. This award is confirmation that our hotels in Andalusia are world-leading”.
    Receiving a World Travel Award means being at the top of the travel industry and specifically the hospitality industry. These awards were created in 1993 to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. Today they are recognised worldwide as the industry’s ultimate seal of excellence.
    Each year, the World Travel Awards cover the globe with their Grand Tour: a series of regional gala ceremonies to recognise excellence within each continent attended by key decision-makers, leading figures, influencers and industry media. At the end of the year, the winners from each continent face off in a Grand Final.
    Casa Palacio Don RamónHotel Casa Palacio Don Ramón 5* Gran Lujo has become a benchmark for the most exclusive tourism in the Andalusian capital.Opened in 2023, this is the luxury hotel chain’s first property in Seville with the aim of offering a higher degree of hospitality and excellence in the city. Located in the heart of the city centre and occupying one of the most emblematic buildings in the city – the former Casa Palacio on Calle Trajano, 2 – Don Ramón is presented as the most exclusive hotel experience that can be enjoyed in Seville. A building with a rich historical and artistic heritage, whose restoration and renovation has opted for the incorporation of the most cutting-edge and sustainable technology, including thermal and acoustic insulation, anti-humidity systems, silent air conditioning, aerothermal and geothermal energy, closed water circuits, aromatisation, multi-layered Climalit glass, and a radiant under floor heating system.
    Divided across three floors and with a layout that resembles that of an Andalusian manor house, the hotel has two interior patios with rooftop terrace and swimming pool. The 26 rooms and the common areas of Casa Palacio Don Ramón, including the outdoor swimming pool, the rooftop with spectacular views, the gym, the meeting room and the El Limón restaurant, are unique spaces, with a refined atmosphere.ADVERTISEMENTThe project, designed by the studio of interior designer Alejandra Pombo, is a journey through the different cultures that have inhabited the city over the years, from Al-Andalus to the Seville of the New World. An essence that takes shape through exquisite details and materials made by local artisans, such as wallpapers, upholstered furniture, tiles, grilles and the coquettish balconies present in some of the rooms.
    The rooms are divided into three categories: Arab, Mozarabic and New World, according to the prevailing decorative style, and to these we must add the Seville and Don Ramon suites, both on the top floor.
    Each of them is presented as a unique space – no two rooms are alike in the entire hotel – and where these three styles are perfectly combined with contemporary materials and inspirations.Along the same lines, the hotel becomes a museum through a tour of exclusive canvases and works of art from the collection of Marisa C. de Azcárate – owner of Kaizen Hoteles – and from the hotel’s own heritage.
    To complete the experience, Casa Palacio has its own restaurant focusing on local produce.
    Source: https://theluxuryeditor.com/

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    Multi-Generational Sardinia Escapes

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