Eliana Willis

More stories

  • 138 Shares129 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Manchester Airport Celebrates Lunar New Year Amid Surge in Beijing Travel

    Manchester Airport is marking the Lunar New Year with a fortune cookie and plush toy dragon giveaway to passengers jetting off to China from Terminal 2, as new figures show a jump in the number of passengers travelling to and from Beijing in the second half of last year.
    Hainan Airlines brought back its flights to the Chinese capital in late 2022 after a hiatus during the Covid-19 pandemic, and passenger numbers rose dramatically over the first full year of the route’s resumption. 32,933 passengers used the route in the second half of 2023 – up from 16,186 in the first half of the year, an increase of 104%.
    The figure is expected to rise further this year, with Hainan Airlines upping the number of flights in June from four-times-per-week to daily.
    The airline’s partnership with Loganair means passengers from other UK regions can also benefit from these links with tickets available from Aberdeen, Inverness, the Isle of Man and Newquay to Beijing, with a simple airside transfer at Manchester.
    Manchester has one of the UK’s oldest and largest Chinese communities and celebrates the Lunar New Year with an impressive parade through the city centre, ending in its Chinatown district – a parade in which airport colleagues are also due to take part this year.ADVERTISEMENTThe Beijing flights also underpin crucial economic ties between China and the north of the UK. Export values from Manchester Airport to China grew 41% and enquiries about investment in the area from China doubled in the two years after the route first launched. The region’s universities also saw a boost of nearly 10% in the number of Chinese students enrolling.
    More than 117,000 passengers also travelled between Manchester and Hong Kong last year, where Cathay Pacific operates four flights per week.
    Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, said: “We’d like to wish a happy Lunar New Year to all those celebrating. The Year of the Dragon is believed to bring good luck and prosperity, and we are certainly very fortunate in Manchester to have a direct link to Beijing, which will become a daily service this summer.
    “We’re proud to connect the North with the world, and with services to destinations like Beijing, Hong Kong and Singapore, our links to the Far East are unrivalled by any other UK airport outside of London.”
    Rhys Whalley, Executive Director at the Manchester China Forum, added: “Hainan Airlines’ decision to take the Manchester-Beijing route daily this summer is not only a vote of confidence in the prospects for post-pandemic two-way traffic, but also in the airline’s conviction that the region will serve as a key gateway for Chinese businesses, students and visitors entering the UK market.
    “This weekend’s Lunar New Year celebrations will once again see tens of thousands gather in Manchester’s Chinatown to welcome in the new year. As some of the largest scale celebrations in Europe; this will provide local residents, the thousands of Chinese students studying across the region as well as the ever-growing Chinese business community, an opportunity to come together to welcome in the year of the Dragon.”

    Older
    Air Canada Partners with Colleges to Support Diversity in Aviation with New Scholarships

    Newer
    AirAsia’s Lunar New Year Flight Achieves 100% Passenger Load, Promoting Affordable Travel More

  • 100 Shares179 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Hamad International Airport Wins Prestigious Digital Signage Award

    Hamad International Airport (DOH) was presented with the ‘Large-Format Digital Canvases’ award at the Digital Signage Awards for its digital ribbon that wraps the ORCHARD, the airport’s indoor tropical garden. Hosted at Esferic Events Centre in Barcelona, the global Digital Signage Awards is an annual international search for excellence and innovation across projects, creativity, products and services. The project was submitted by multimedia studio Moment Factory who was tasked with enhancing the ORCHARD with a creative multimedia ecosystem.
    Unveiled in November 2022, part of Phase A of Hamad International Airport’s expansion plan, the 6,000 square-meter ORCHARD is home to trees, plants and shrubs sourced from sustainable forests from around the world. The ribbon display is a notable feature of the ORCHARD, that compliments the lush greenery and 10,000 square-meters of multi-dimensional retail and F&B space offering, adding to the visual ecosystem.
    Key features of the Digital Ribbon Display at the ORCHARD:
    The state-of-the-art digital ribbon installation is approximately 1.2 kilometers, spanning across two storeys, tailored to enhance the ambiance of the tropical garden with bespoke visuals.The intricate visuals created in collaboration with Moment Factory are projected through high resolution display with over 169 million pixels of animation.The visual displays of the ribbon consist of multiple themes including a luxe botanical elements, flora and fauna, Qatar Sands of time and a Mirage, embodying the culture and heritage of the state of Qatar.The display comes to life every hour creating an immersive experience for passengersThe ORCHARD is located in the North Plaza, and is connected to the South Plaza, where the famous Lamp/Bear resides, and can be accessed via the Passenger Train – travel time between both stations in 90 seconds, or can be reached by travelators, buggies or walking.
    Winning the accolade is testament to Hamad International Airport’s investment in creating a memorable experience for passengers by introducing an open gallery experience through a collection on one-of-a-kind art installations and incorporating digital art to elevate the airport journey.ADVERTISEMENT

    Older
    Delfin Amazon Cruises Partners with REYA Communications to Spotlight Sustainable Luxury Travel

    Newer
    Air Canada Partners with Colleges to Support Diversity in Aviation with New Scholarships More

  • 150 Shares159 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Delfin Amazon Cruises Partners with REYA Communications to Spotlight Sustainable Luxury Travel

    (REYA) is pleased to announce the appointment of its newest client Delfin Amazon Cruises (Delfin). The first Relais & Châteaux Cruise in the world, Delfin is an upscale river cruise operator in the Upper Peruvian Amazon offering a truly comprehensive gastronomic, cultural, and historic adventure. The New York and Miami-based communications firm will handle the US media relations for Delfin, who is returning to REYA’s roster of luxury travel brands committed to conservation, sustainability, and social impact.
    “We’re thrilled to welcome Delfin back and have an opportunity to promote Peru and its natural beauty with the media once again. Our portfolio has always attracted the pioneers of their sector, and Delfin is no exception. From delivering first-in-class hospitality in the remote waterways of the Amazon to the social impact made within the local communities to the conservation efforts made to protect the wildlife and habitats of this crucial rainforest, we couldn’t be more excited,” shares Alexandra Avila, Co-Founder of REYA.
    Delfin takes personalized boutique travel and services to new levels, with three luxury cruises ranging in capacity from 4 to 22 award-winning suites. All cruises provide five-star, farm-to-table dining services from Delfin’s local garden, blending Peruvian history with contemporary dishes. The newly renovated Delfin II and Delfin III offer both elegance and comfort with spa and gym services. The Delfin II cruise was recently honored in Condé  Nast Traveler’s 2024 Gold List as a “ Best Cruise Ships In The World.” Excursions like kayaking the Amazon waterways and trail walks through the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve are included. Delfin provides an exceptional experience for guests while supporting riverine communities, from purchasing the artwork of local women to aiding wildlife conservation initiatives including the protection of rare pink river dolphins.
    Delfin’s Founder & CEO,  Aldo Macchiavello shares, “We are excited to return to REYA, which has always shared our commitment to social responsibility. Peru is prime for tourism and we know our partnership will help put the spotlight back on our beautiful country.
    Delfin joins REYA, which has garnered global recognition for its commitment to promoting responsible tourism and championing family-owned travel brands making a local difference. Founded by travel PR veterans Alexandra Avila and Julie Leventhal, REYA combines their passions for working with independent hotels and operators, using digital marketing strategies that yield more effective results. Avila was honored in 2020 as a “Top Woman in PR” by PR News for leveraging her media and digital marketing expertise to support and drive results. In 2022, REYA was honored as a ‘CSR Agency of the Year’ finalist in PR News’ Social Impact Awards for their contributions to gorilla conservation in East Africa.ADVERTISEMENT

    Older
    ETIHAD AIRWAYS CELEBRATES ZAYED INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

    Newer
    Hamad International Airport Wins Prestigious Digital Signage Award More

  • 138 Shares99 Views

    in organisations-operators

    ETIHAD AIRWAYS TAKES FLIGHT AS OFFICIAL SPONSOR OF CHENNAI SUPER KINGS

    Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, is delighted to announce its exciting new venture as the official sponsor for the Chennai Super Kings. The partnership was revealed during a special ceremony held in CSK’s home city of Chennai.
    Welcomed by 2,000 enthusiastic fans, the ‘unveiling event’ was held at Kalaivanar Arangam, in the presence of team officials and Chennai Super Kings’ players, who joined Etihad cabin crew onstage wearing their new jerseys proudly displaying the airline’s logo.

    As part of this partnership, Etihad aims to elevate the fan experience by engaging in exciting activities, promotions, and unique initiatives throughout the upcoming season. Fans can expect a thrilling journey with Etihad as they support the Chennai Super Kings in their quest for victory.
    ADVERTISEMENTThe Etihad partnership will come to life across Chennai Super Kings’ events and platforms, with Etihad showcased on the back of the Chennai super Kings’ jersey, through engaging activations and fan activities at events and matches, as well as offering exclusive deals to Chennai Super Kings’ fans.

    Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership: “Today marks the start of an extraordinary journey as we welcome the Chennai Super Kings to our sports portfolio. Cricket’s global resonance unites diverse communities, reflecting the shared values of Etihad and Chennai Super Kings. Our collaboration goes beyond sponsorship; it’s a celebration of a shared ethos, a testament to the collective spirit of Etihad and the Chennai Super Kings.

    “Cricket in India is truly incredible and the Chennai Super Kings fans really showcase exactly what it means to love and have true passion for the game in this incredible country. For Etihad, we believe in connecting with our travellers through shared interests, and like the ‘Yellow Army’ we really believe in this team. As we embark on this thrilling journey, we anticipate not only creating unforgettable moments for fans and travellers but also forging a powerful connection that transcends boundaries and elevates the spirit of the game to new heights.”

    Kasi Viswanathan, Chief Executive Officer, Chennai Super Kings said: “In Etihad Airways we have a partner that not only shares ours values, commitment to excellence and passion for success but also brings association benefits that are global in nature for our brand. This collaboration goes beyond the boundaries of a traditional sponsorship – it’s about creating an extraordinary experience for our fans and setting new standards in sports partnerships.”

    “The Etihad – Chennai Super Kings partnership promises to deliver a series of exciting initiatives, engaging activations, and unique fan experiences throughout the cricketing season. Stay tuned as we embark on a journey to redefine the dynamics of sports sponsorships and leave an indelible mark on the world stage.”

    This strategic collaboration solidifies Etihad’s commitment to the Indian market and its dedication to fostering meaningful connections with the vibrant communities of India. It brings together the world-class travel experiences of Etihad and the prowess of the Chennai Super Kings, creating a winning combination that resonates with fans and travelers alike.

    Etihad provides a total of 165 weekly flights to 10 Indian cities, connecting Indian passengers to more than 70 destinations worldwide. Recently the airline launched two new routes to Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram, and also increased Mumbai and Delhi frequencies from two flights to four flights per day.

    The Etihad – Chennai Super Kings partnership follows closely on the heels of Etihad’s announcement of Bollywood superstar Katrina Kaif as its brand ambassador. This dynamic combination of cricketing prowess and Bollywood glamour reinforces Etihad’s commitment to connecting with diverse audiences across India.

    Older
    Delta to debut premium lounges and more in 2024

    Newer
    ETIHAD AIRWAYS CELEBRATES ZAYED INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT More

  • 113 Shares99 Views

    in organisations-operators

    SANTO DA SERRA UPGRADE HIGHLIGHTS MADEIRA COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY

    The island destination of Madeira has taken its sustainability credentials to new heights, with all three golfing venues embracing the tourist board’s long-term commitment to preserving the environment.Clube de Golf Santo da Serra has become the latest club in the idyllic Portuguese islands to implement a new eco-strategy, following Palheiro Golf and Porto Santo Golf in making a series of course improvements to enhance the overall playing experience for members and guests.At the centre of Club de Golfe Santo da Serra’s improvement plan is the installation of a new state-of-the-art irrigation system – reducing its water consumption by around 66 per cent so that just 750m³ a day is now needed to help ensure optimum course conditions all-year round.In addition, the club has renovated the four on-course lakes that it uses for irrigation, installing an interconnecting system between all of them to improve access to water so that all areas of the 27-hole layout can easily be watered whenever necessary. It is estimated that the combined capacity of the lakes is around 40,000m³, a volume that will reinforce the storage capacity of the Lagoa do Santo system.Porto Santo Golfe recently strengthened its association with nature when the island that it is named after became a UNESCO biosphere reserve – one of 25 new locations named in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.Designed by Seve Ballesteros and host of the Madeira Islands Open in 2009 and 2011, the club is the perfect example of the harmony between human activity and wildlife. Dotted with lakes and natural habitats within the course, the northern route of the course is set atop fantastic cliffs and near the stunning Porto Santo beach. Diverse marine life thrives nearby, including the loggerhead sea turtle and the rarest seal in the world, the Mediterranean monk seal.And Palheiro Golf is also working hard to deliver increased sustainability in and around the golf course. As well as registering with the Golf Environment Organisation, the venue has dramatically reduced the carbon footprint of the course by using a black sand endemic to Madeira in all its bunker, while future plans include the purchase of new golf-course maintenance machinery and updating its irrigation system. Located approximately 1,000km from the European mainland – and just 500km from the African continent – the islands enjoy an amazingly mild climate, ranging from 25°c in the summer to 17°c in the winter, with very mild average temperatures and moderate humidity, making it the perfect year-round destination for a golf break.Golfers from the UK and across northern Europe headed to Madeira in increasing numbers last autumn to enjoy its world-class golf courses and many other attractions.
    The best way to enjoy the archipelago’s golf is with a Madeira Golf Passport which, providing holders with an unrivalled golf experience, is available to both individuals and groups and can be booked on a three or five-round basis.
    For more information on Madeira visit www.madeiraallyear.com.

    Older
    Artificial Intelligence in hotel marketing: use cases and perspectives

    Newer
    Victoria’s Squeaky Beach, named ‘Best Australian Beach’ for 2024 More

  • 175 Shares129 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Introducing Inclusive Morocco, the first LGBTQ+ -founded and led luxury travel company in Morocco

    Introducing Inclusive Morocco the first LGBTQ+ -founded and led luxury travel company in Morocco with a 100% Moroccan team. Set up by two passionate advocates for sustainability and inclusivity, Bilal El Hammoumy and Rania Chentouf, Inclusive Morocco itineraries are meticulously designed to celebrate the rich tapestry of Moroccan culture, with the local environment top of mind. The experienced team champions excellent hospitality and inclusiveness, ensuring every traveller leaves Morocco with a unique and profound connection to the country’s abundant spirit.
    Featured trips include Echoes of the Atlas, Morocco with a Family, and Northern Morocco.
    **NEW** for 2024: Echoes of the Atlas: This pioneering trip underscores the power of regenerative travel, showing that luxury and sustainability can happily coexist. It invites travellers to experience the Atlas Mountains’ grandeur through a lens of luxury that does not compromise the environment, ensuring a journey as enriching as it is responsible. Prices start from £13170 per person based on two people sharing.Morocco with Kids: Specially designed to cater to the UK market, this trip is adaptable to families of all sizes, including multi-generational groups. It offers a blend of activities that ensure every family member, from the youngest to the oldest, experiences the magic of Morocco in a way that is meaningful and memorable. Prices start from £3165 per person.Northern Morocco: Spotlighting Inclusive Morocco’s area of expertise and origin, this trip offers an intimate exploration of Northern Morocco’s rich heritage and new experiences. From the historical streets of Tangier to the rugged Rif mountains, travellers will discover a region brimming with culture, history, and new opportunities for adventure. Prices start from £3710 per person.Commitment to sustainability and social impactInclusive Morocco operates with sustainability as its compass, embedding eco-conscious practices and community engagement into the core of its operations. The company is steadfast in its commitment to fostering a positive social and environmental impact, aiming for a harmonious balance that not only resonates with the vibrant spirit of Morocco but also secures an inclusive future for all.
    Through active engagement with the local LGBTQ+ community and support for non-profit organisations such as the High Atlas Foundation, Association Darna, and Kif Kid Organisation, Inclusive Morocco pledges to contribute significantly to the communities it touches.
    Collaborations with environmental start-ups like MJ Bike Morocco and initiatives with WeTravel to offset carbon emissions are testament to their goal of achieving a negative carbon footprint by 2026, underlining actions that echo through the valleys of Morocco to create lasting positive change.ADVERTISEMENTA pioneering force in LGBTQ+ and luxury travelInclusive Morocco stands as a beacon of progress in the travel industry, not only highlighting the beauty and diversity of Morocco but also championing the values of inclusivity and diversity.
    Join Inclusive Morocco on a journey where luxury meets sustainability, culture embraces inclusivity, and every travel experience is an opportunity to make a positive impact. Discover a new way to explore Morocco, where every step is a step towards a brighter, more inclusive future.
    Visit www.inclusivemorocco.com for more information.

    Older
    Fairmont appoints new Cluster Director of Revenue

    Newer
    Artificial Intelligence in hotel marketing: use cases and perspectives More

  • 150 Shares189 Views

    in organisations-operators

    IMG World of Adventures Celebrates the Chinese New Year of the Dragon

    Adding to the attractions of Dubai as a cosmopolitan city of the ME, IMG Worlds of Adventures is celebrating the Chinese New Year from the 18th of Jan 2024 till the 20th of Feb. The year of the dragon, on Saturday, February 10, 2024. The Chinese themed decorations and traditional performances and colorful parades are the main key of this dragon year, to add many more activities like the “Lunar Wheel of Fortune” to spin your luck and win many surprises, Chinese Zodiac photobooth and festive menu in Chang’s Golden Dragon restaurant and Chinese sweets in the Coffee House.
    Visit also IMG Worlds retails shops in each zone and take with you souvenirs, original and one-of-a-kind collectables to remember your incredible day. The entry tickets are available on www.IMGworlds.com

    Older
    Dubai hosts record number of tourists in 2023

    Newer
    HBX Group data reveals emerging Chinese destinations for New Year 2024 More

  • 100 Shares169 Views

    in organisations-operators

    Dubai hosts record number of tourists in 2023

    Dubai recorded its highest ever annual tourist arrivals in 2023, attracting 17.15 million international overnight visitors over the course of the year. The previous record stood at 16.73 million visitors registered in 2019.The data published by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) showed that 2023’s visitor numbers represented a 19.4 per cent year-on-year growth over the 14.36 million tourist arrivals in 2022.
    The GCC and MENA regions together accounted for a combined 28 per cent of the total number of visitors to the UAE last year. Western Europe and South Asia accounted for 19 per cent and 18 per cent of arrivals respectively, while CIS/Eastern Europe recorded a 13 per cent share. The North Asia and South East Asia region accounted for 9 per cent of arrivals, the Americas contributed 7 per cent, Africa 4 per cent and Australasia 2 per cent.
    Average occupancy for Dubai’s hotel sector in 2023 stood at 77.4 per cent. That occupancy rate comes as the emirate witnessed an overall 19 per cent increase in room supply in 2023 compared to 2019.
    Dubai’s hotel inventory at the end of December 2023 stood at 150,291 rooms at 821 establishments, compared to 146,496 rooms available at the end of December 2022 across 804 establishments.
    In 2023, occupied room nights reached a record high of 41.70 million, a 11 per cent increase compared to 2022 (37.43 million). This growth also represented a 30 per cent rise from the pre-pandemic figures of 2019, which saw 32.11 million occupied room nights.The 2023 average daily rate stood at Dhs536, which matched the ADR in 2022. The hotel sector’s RevPAR of Dhs415 in 2023 also increased 6 per cent over 2022 (Dhs391). The average length of stay for guests was 3.8 nights in 2023.ADVERTISEMENTThe tourism sector’s performance accompanies the emirate’s 3.3 per cent GDP growth in the first nine months of 2023.
    As for its events sector, major business and leisure events held in 2023 included Gulfood (134,000 visitors and 5,000 exhibitors), Gitex Global Dubai (170,000 visitors and 6,000 exhibitors), the International Boat Show (30,000 visitors) and Arabian Travel Market (40,000 visitors). Dubai Business Events, part of DET and the city’s official convention bureau, won a record 349 bids to host international conferences, congresses, meetings, and incentive travel programmes over the coming years.
    Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said, “The sustained success will further enhance visitors’ enduring trust, confidence and affinity for Dubai, as it accelerates towards the goal of becoming the best city to visit, live and work in, and ultimately converting visitors into long-term residents. We are strategically harnessing the significant momentum generated during a highly successful 2023 to drive growth across all segments of tourism. As we look forward to welcoming more visitors in 2024, the unwavering support of our public and private sector partners will be pivotal in enhancing our capacity to showcase our unparalleled offerings tailored to cater to the diverse preferences and budgets of international travellers.”
    The latest data from the UN World Tourism Organisation reveals that overall, international tourism reached 88 per cent of pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2023. The only region to overcome pre-pandemic levels with 22 per cent visitation growth above 2019 was the Middle East.
    dubaitourism.gov.ae

    Older
    Cunard report new January booking records

    Newer
    IMG World of Adventures Celebrates the Chinese New Year of the Dragon More