Eliana Willis

Nearly one century has passed since King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud founded Saudi Arabia after conquering Mecca in 1924, since then a series of rapid developments took place until present day.
King Abdulaziz’s first ordered the maintenance of the Grand Mosque of Mecca and the introduction of electricity at the holy site, a vision of continuous improvements that never seized until the Kingdom’s very recent third expansion project of Mecca’s Grand Mosque with a cost that surpassed 200 billion Saudi riyals.
Two decades after King Abdulaziz entered Mecca, he ordered the creation of an apparatus dedicated to the organization of Hajj and Umrah affairs, and thus the General Directorate of Hajj was established in 1948 to take up the task of serving pilgrims and providing them with all means of comfort.
The following Kings of House Saud embraced the same path until the reign of King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, during whose era the Grand Mosque’s area was expanded to 139,000 square meters with a capacity of 400,000 worshipers in 1976.
However, the largest expansion project of the Mosque was inaugurated by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, targeting urban and security aspects, with the area of the entire project is estimated to be more than 1.3 million square meters with a capacity of 2 million devotees.ADVERTISEMENTThe latest expansion encompasses sub-mega projects, namely the squares project, the foot tunnels project, the central services station, and the Haram Ring Road project.
Furthermore, the pilgrims’ growing modern needs required infrastructure projects to grow rapidly, including Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro, which has been running with full capacity since 2018 to move 60 million people every year between Mecca and Medina in merely two hours.
Additionally, 17 trains are operating at the holy sites between Mina, Muzdalifah, and Mount Arafat with a capacity of 72,000 people per hour.
Over the past 80 years the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has always strived to raise the quality of services and to facilitate the procedures for the arrival of pilgrims as well as Umrah performers, whose numbers are targeted for an increase to reach 30 million annually, in line with the Saudi Vision 2030.

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Ctrip Reveals Increase in Outbound Travel Bookings for Chinese Mainland Dragon Boat Festival Holiday

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Ctrip platform, owned by leading travel service provider Trip.com Group, recently released their Chinese mainland outbound and domestic Dragon Boat Festival trends, with outbound booking for the festival increasing more than 12 times year-over-year.Notably, the average cost of outbound travel reduced for a one-way air ticket by 6%, compared to the May Day holiday.
The primary groups engaged in outbound travel from Mainland China were individuals born in the post-80s (37%) and post-90s (36%) generations who preferred leisurely holidays. Hong Kong, Bangkok, Macau, Tokyo and Singapore were the most popular destinations, with post-80s and post-90s spending an average of RMB 2,981 (415 USD) per hotel booking.
Hong Kong was the most popular option for Chinese Mainland travellers, with hotel orders from the Chinese Mainland to Hong Kong increasing more than 18 times year-over-year. Many travellers chose to take the high-speed rail to Hong Kong, with orders for high-speed rail on Ctrip’s platform rising by more than 60% compared to last month.
Most millennials opted for destinations based on proximity, visa and flight convenience, with many selecting routes within a three-hour flight time. Shanghai-Osaka, Shanghai-Jeju Island, Beijing-Seoul, and Beijing-Tokyo were among the most popular outbound routes.
The Dragon Boat Festival is a brief national holiday in the Chinese mainland, prompting many individuals to spend less time travelling domestically and more time relishing their vacation through various activities.ADVERTISEMENTNearby, cross-provincial routes were the mainstay for travellers on vacation, selecting a radius of 300 kilometres or less. The Top 10 popular domestic city destinations were Hangzhou, Shanghai, Nanjing, Guangzhou, Suzhou, Beijing, Tianjin, Jinan, Qinhuangdao and Shenzhen.
The price of domestic hotels per night decreased compared to the May Day holiday. Xi’an, famously known for the Terracotta warriors, saw hotel prices fall by 29%, compared to May, with Nanjing and Guangzhou hotel prices down 22% and 19%, respectively.
Many young people have chosen outdoor or rural activities as a great way to escape the heat, with outdoor product bookings increasing by more than 50% in the past two weeks.
As one of the last short holidays of this year ends, Ctrip data shows a growing trend for summer vacations, with search data rising 50% from the previous year.
Families are eager to explore and make memories together this summer. In fact, as of June 14th, Ctrip has seen a surge in orders for parent-child tours, making up over 30% of all summer bookings and more than seven times compared to last year.
With growing supply capacity, it is clear that Chinese travellers have newfound confidence, with many families welcoming in trips this summer season and a positive indication of travel recovery. 

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The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) this week reveals Japan’s Travel & Tourism sector’s GDP contribution is forecast to reach USD 285.5 billion (JPY 37.6 trillion) this year.
This figure is only 6.8% shy of to the 2019 pre-pandemic high of USD 306.5 billion (JPY 40.3 trillion), and by end of year the sector could represent 6.8% of the total economy.
Despite the effects of the pandemic spanning into 2023 in Japan, WTTC is forecasting for the sector to create around 470,000 jobs this year, to reach nearly 5.6 million. This means around one in twelve workers in Japan, are directly or indirectly employed in the Travel & Tourism sector.
While the sector is still shy of 300,000 jobs to reach pre-pandemic levels, by the end of this year it will only be 5.2% below 2019 levels.
International visitor spend in Japan is forecast to surge by 553.4% this year to reach USD 16.8 billion (JPY 2.2 trillion), still 57.6% below the 2019 peak.ADVERTISEMENTA look back on last year
Last year the sector’s GDP contribution grew by 50.5% to reach more than USD 257 billion (JPY 33.9 trillion), representing 6.2% of the economy.
The sector saw jobs increase in 2022, from the previous year, to nearly 5.1 million jobs nationally – one in 13 jobs across Japan.
International visitor spend in Japan declined in 2022 as the effects of prolonged travel restrictions continued to have a chokehold on the sector. International visitor spend declined a by more than 31%, remaining 93.5% below 2019 levels.
Domestic visitor spend grew by 61.6% last year, virtually returning to 2019 levels, only 0.2% behind.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Travel & Tourism is an important driver of economic growth and job creation to Japan. We predict a significant boost to the global Travel & Tourism sector as residents begin to travel once again.
“The economic ripple effect of this sector is awe-inspiring. It stimulates job creation, from tour guides and hotel staff to local artisans and transportation providers.
“International travel will be essential to achieve the long-awaited recovery. We must nurture and support this sector, finding innovative ways to attract visitors and ensure their comfort. By doing so, we not only boost our economy but also support livelihoods and local communities.”
Hiroyuki Takahashi, JTB Corp. Chairperson of the Board, said: “As the global demand to visit Japan is extremely high and growing, we, JTB Corp., are working together with the public and private sectors and developing new tourism attractions to expand the capacity in rural areas.
“Adventure tourism would be the innovative driver to address to these demands and challenges. “With a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and unforgettable experiences, we envision a future where Japan’s Travel & Tourism sector thrives.”
Isao Takashiro, JAT Chairman and CEO, said: “Thanks to the government’s efforts and a resurgence in travel demand, our domestic terminal passengers have rebounded to pre-pandemic levels. This remarkable recovery showcases the resilience of our sector.
“Haneda Airport’s international terminal is on track to surpass 18 million passengers by the end of this year, despite challenges faced. With increased slots and capacity, and anticipated growth in inbound demand, we project exceeding 25 million passengers by 2025.”
“As an essential gateway to Japan, we remain committed to enhancing the passenger’s experience, with new international flight facilities and attractive commercial amenities.”
In 2022, the top source markets for international visitors to Japan were South Korea (24%), mainland China (10%), Taiwan, China (10%), U.S. (8%) and Hong Kong, China (7%).
What does the next decade look like?
The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to USD 353.4 billion (JPY 46.5 trillion) by 2033, nearly 8% of the Japanese economy, and will employ 6.7 million people across the country, with one in ten Japanese residents working in the sector.
Asia-Pacific
In 2022, the Asia-Pacific Travel & Tourism sector contributed USD 1.6 trillion to the regional economy, but this is still 50% behind the 2019 peak. WTTC forecasts the region’s GDP contribution from the sector will reach more than USD 2.6 trillion in 2023 – just 16% below the 2019 highpoint.
The sector employed over 155 million people across the region in 2022, an increase of 8.7 million from the previous year but still 15% behind pre-pandemic levels. WTTC forecasts the sector will fully recover the jobs lost during the pandemic by the end of 2024 or the beginning of 2025.
For more information, please visit wttc.org

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Greek Travel & Tourism sector to approach full recovery this year, says WTTC More

The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) today reveals the Greek Travel & Tourism sector is projected to near pre-pandemic levels this year.
The sector is set to contribute €39.2 billion to the Greek economy by the end of 2023, only 4% behind the 2019 pre-pandemic high of €40.8 billion.
WTTC is also forecasting that the sector will create more than 17,000 jobs this year, reaching the 2019 peak of 820,000 employed by Travel & Tourism.
A look back on last year
Last year, the Travel & Tourism sector’s GDP contribution grew by nearly two fifths (38.2%) to reach nearly €38 billion, representing 18.5% of the Greek economy.ADVERTISEMENTThe sector also created 5,000 more jobs, compared to the previous year, to reach almost 800,000 jobs nationally.
According to the report, the sector has now recovered 82%% of the jobs lost during the pandemic.
Last year also saw the return of international travellers heading to Greece, with the UK (14%), Germany (14%), and Bulgaria (10%) leading as source markets for international arrivals in Greece.
According to the data, in 2022, international visitor spend contributed €19.1 billion to the national economy, representing a year-on-year growth of more than 56%.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The Travel & Tourism sector is very important in Greece, representing more than 19% of the economy. Tourism is recovering strongly with high visitor demand. Greece is one of Europe’s most popular destinations, and the data clearly shows travellers are heading back in their droves. Greece took a leadership position during the pandemic.
“The future for the sector in Greece is optimistic. By the end of this year, the sector’s contribution will be almost back to 2019 levels. Over the next decade, growth will outstrip the national economy growth rate and create thousands of new jobs over the next decade.”
What does the next decade look like?
The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to €57.2 billion by 2033, representing nearly a quarter (23.6%) of the Greek economy.
Over the next decade, Travel & Tourism could employ more than 1,02 million people across the country, with one in four jobs supported by the sector.
Europe
In 2022, the European Travel & Tourism sector contributed €1.9 trillion to the regional economy, just 7% below the 2019 peak. WTTC forecasts the regional sector’s GDP contribution will reach €2.04 trillion in 2023 and be within touching distance of the 2019 highpoint.
The sector employed 34.7 million people across the region in 2022, an increase of 2.9 million from the previous year, but still 3.2 million behind the 2019 peak. WTTC forecasts the sector will fully recover the jobs lost during the pandemic by the end of 2024.

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Love is in the air on the One happy island as Aruba I Do, the Caribbean’s largest vow renewal, returns for a fifth year. Located on the sands of TripAdvisor’s #1 Best Beach in the Caribbean, Eagle Beach, this year’s milestone ceremony will take place on August 9, 2023. The news comes on the heels of new survey data from The Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA*) sharing that 80% of Americans feel that no matter how big or small the ceremony, vow renewals bring marital happiness for years to come.
In celebration of half a decade of saying “I Do” (again), the ATA went directly to the source. Teaming up with The Harris Poll to uncover how Americans really feel about formally reaffirming their marital vows, the ATA surveyed over 2,000 adults 18+,* and uncovered that 87% of Americans agree that vow renewals are a great way to celebrate a significant milestone or anniversary. Additionally, 83% agreed that vows can be renewed multiple times throughout a marriage and 86% felt vow renewals are an opportunity for couples to create new memories in a special location.
“Aruba is honored to host the largest vow renewal in the Caribbean for a fifth year and provide this beloved tradition to couples of all demographics worldwide to experience romance in a way unique to the One happy island,” said Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority. “This year’s registrants have an average of 20 years of marriage together, making the event just that much more heartwarming to witness in the sand of the breathtaking Eagle Beach. “
With one of Aruba’s renowned sunsets in the background, couples will recommit their love, champagne in hand at the most romantic event of the summer. For those unable to witness the renewal in person, the ceremony will once again be globally accessible through a Facebook and Instagram live-stream, spreading the love past Aruba’s shores. Registration is open now for couples to attend the vow renewal by visiting aruba.com/us/renew-your-vows-in aruba.
Participating couples can also take advantage of romantic vacation packages that pair best-in-class hotel stays with some of the most romantic on-island activities and Aruba’s picturesque backdrop to rekindle their love. From bucket list worthy sunset sailing and couples’ massages to relaxing candlelight dining and breakfast in bed, couples can fall in love all over again on island – with an Aruba Ariba in hand!.ADVERTISEMENTHotel Packages
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, Create Unforgettable MemoriesBoardwalk Boutique Hotel, Stay Longer and Save Package Courtyard by Marriott, Room to Rendezvous Package Hilton Aruba Caribbean, Our Time Package Holiday Inn Aruba Beach Resort & Casino, The Romantic Escape Package Hyatt Regency Aruba, Elite Romance ExperienceHyatt Place Aruba Airport, Vow Renewal Special Experience Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa, Romantic Getaway Package Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino Aruba, Sand, Sea, You & Me PackageRadisson Blu Aruba, Renew Your I Do’s Package The Ritz Carlton Aruba, Romance Escape The Ritz Carlton Aruba, Dinner on the BeachActivities
Aruba I Do by Monforte Luxury Cruise Aruba I Do by Pelican AdventuresCouple Photoshoot Package by Flying Dress ArubaFor more information on the ceremony or registration, as well as special discounts on hotel packages and experiences, please visit https://www.aruba.com/us/renew-your-vows-in-aruba and make sure to follow along on social, using the #OneHappyIsland hashtag and tagging @ArubaTourism.

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As the veil of night falls on Saint Lucia, the island’s celebrated nightlife emerges. From legendary “jump-up” street festivities to full-moon beach parties to club-hopping on bustling restaurant strips, there’s virtually no limit to the island’s nighttime entertainment options. Saint Lucia is renowned across the Caribbean for her exotic rhythms and flavors; her nightlife is an experience that is not to be missed.
RODNEY BAY VILLAGEDine and dance at Rodney Bay Village, the north island’s de facto “nightlife central.” Dinner is served at an array of excellent restaurants covering all tastes and budgets. Culinary options include authentic smoked barbecue, steakhouse, Mexican, Chinese and Indian cuisine, as well as other eclectic casual and local dining options.
Late night bars and clubs are a bustling mix of locals and visitors. As you walk down the strip, be sure to stop by one of the regular karaoke and live music nights at various venues to enjoy up-tempo soca and cool reggae. The party never ends as the Rodney Bay vibe goes on till late most nights of the week.

GROS ISLET STREET PARTYThe Gros Islet street party — perhaps Saint Lucia’s most famous “jump-up”— has taken place weekly for more than 50 years, come rain or shine. In fact, the town only takes a night off from hosting Saint Lucia’s most famous party on Good Friday.ADVERTISEMENTEvery Friday night starting at sunset, the residents of Gros Islet fire up their barbecues, ice down the Piton beer, set up table-top bars in the streets, and get ready to welcome thousands of enthusiastic revelers to the colorful fishing town’s narrow streets. Arts and crafts vendors lay out their stalls, and the town center becomes DJ central, as a giant sound system cranks up and keeps the street party moving until the early hours of Saturday morning.
And be sure to bring your appetite! On Friday nights, Gros Islet is lined with sizzling barbecues, grilling everything from zest chicken and pork to the freshest catch, landed just hours before by the town’s fishermen. Local cuisine is the ticket, and the adventurous should look out for the lambi or conch grills on the waterfront, or seasonal seafood favorites like spiny lobster and bwigo (whelks).

ANSE LA RAYE FISH FRYDuring the day, the beachside fisheries complex at Anse La Raye is a busy hive of activity, as the local fishermen take to the sea in their colorful boats or pirogues and return laden with the finest catch.
On Friday evenings, snapper, tuna, dorado, barracuda, Spanish mackerel, lobster, crab and a plethora of other delicious sea-dwellers makes its way to the villagers’ coal pots and grills, which line the beachfront, surrounded by brightly covered tables and impromptu street cafes. The aroma of freshly cooked seafood will surely excite your senses.
DJs and local musicians line the street, giving you ample opportunity to sample Saint Lucia’s local soundscape.

DENNERY SEAFOOD FIESTAThe sheltered village of Dennery lies almost exactly halfway down the east coast of Saint Lucia, where the Atlantic first makes contact with the island. The harbor is another busy fisheries complex, in a picturesque setting flanked by tall cliffs and overlooked by the charming hillside village.
On Saturday nights, the beachside becomes a community “lime” (or “hangout”), with street vendors setting up beside the surrounding rum shops and bars, and the pounding beat of Dennery’s festivities resonate the air. The vibe is laid back, friendly and authentic, as the Fish Fiesta is a favorite with many locals from the south of the island.

EXPERIENCE SAINT LUCIA’S NIGHTLIFEThe events described above are just a sampling of Saint Lucia’s nightlife scene. Ultimately, the range of nighttime activities as diverse as the island’s cultural heritage, and there are many dance clubs, lounges, street parties, pubs and more to be experienced. However, at all of them, you’ll find a celebration of island life and a hospitable atmosphere. A night out on the town at some of Saint Lucia’s best nightlife scenes is sure to provide you with fun and memories.
The magical island of Saint Lucia will host the World Travel Awards Caribbean & The Americas Gala Ceremony 2023 on 26 August 2023. The leading travel industry figureheads from across the region will attend the red-carpet reception at Sandals Grande St. Lucian.
Graham Cooke, Founder, World Travel Awards, says: “I am honoured to unveil Saint Lucia as the host of our Caribbean & Americas Gala Ceremony 2023, in this our landmark 30th anniversary. Saint Lucia is helping to spearhead the recovery of travel and tourism in the Caribbean, and I am delighted this captivating island will form a crucial part of our anniversary tour.”He adds: “World Travel Awards has maintained its position as the industry leader for the past 30 years, consistently proving its value as the global benchmark for recognising excellence in travel and tourism. I look forward to joining the most senior travel industry figureheads from across the Caribbean and The Americas for what promises to be a fabulous event, acknowledging those organisations spearheading the growth of the region’s travel and tourism sector.
For more detail visit https://www.stlucia.org/en_UK/experiences/nightlife/

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