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      Israel’s tourism minister promotes travel to and in Israel

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      Israel’s Tourism Minister Haim Katz has appealed for travellers to visit Israel again. Travellers were safe in the country, he said in front of the press on Tuesday at ITB Berlin. He would be urging the German government to drop the travel warnings for Israel issued by the German Foreign Office.
      As proof of the country’s safety, the minister said that the 150,000 residents of the area bordering the Gaza Strip, which had been evacuated after the terrorist attacks by Hamas on 7 October 2023, had been accommodated in hotels for tourists. “That is not something we would have done if the hotels had not been safe.” In the meantime around 80 per cent of the residents had been able to return home.
      Germany, Austria and Switzerland are among the leading countries for tourism to Israel. According to Ksenia Kobiakov, director of Israel’s government office for tourism, 402,000 visited in 2019. In 2022, after the pandemic, the figure was 207,500, and by 7 October 2023 it was 213,302. After that, tourism came to an abrupt halt. All in all, 13,000 tourists arrived in Israel daily before the pandemic. On 8 October 2023 they still numbered 23. In the meantime the numbers fluctuated at around 2,700 to 3,400, she said. “For the time being we are not counting on 13,000, but perhaps nine to ten thousand visitors“, was Kobiakov’s hope.

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      Albania is the Host Country of ITB 2025

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      Albania is the Host Country of ITB 2025

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      Albania has been announced as the Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2025. On Wednesday, 6 March 2024, Albania’s Minister of Tourism and Environment Mirela Kumbaro and Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin, signed a partnership agreement on the Albanian stand in Hall 1.1. Afterwards, the minister introduced the CEO to various regions and local specialities.
      Whenever Mirela Kumbaro talks about her home country Albania, she finds it hard not to enthuse about it. “Albania is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean with a good tourism infrastructure“, she commented during the signing ceremony. “People are in search of new destinations and experiences. Albania doesn’t fit any of the usual stereotypes, but instead is a small and sort of mystical country where travellers can gain new experiences.“
      According to Mirela Kumbaro, there is more to visit than just the sea and mountains, which together with the rivers and forests cover three-quarters of the country. It is the “Albanian spirit“ and the hospitality of the locals that make Albania so attractive. That has always been firmly part of Albanian culture, and not something just invented for the modern tourism age. “In Albania the house belongs to the guest and God“, said Mirela Kumbaro, quoting a common saying in her country. In Albania, visitors could expect to be treated like royalty, she added.
      Furthermore, distances between tourist attractions in Albania are short. It takes only a few hours to reach the mountains from the coast. The Vjosa is part of Europe’s recently declared Wild River National Park. In the north, the Albanian Alps await with many hiking trails and pristine mountain villages, where visitors can find accommodation.
      The latest statistics are proof that tourism in Albania is taking off. Last year, 10.1 million people visited Albania from abroad. According to UN Tourism (UNWTO), during the first six months of 2023 tourism in Albania experienced the third-highest growth worldwide and the highest in Europe. One million tourists have already visited Albania from abroad this year, 50 per cent more than over the same period last year.ADVERTISEMENT

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      Ensuring Oman remains an authentic destination

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      Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Named Global Icon at ITB Berlin

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      The Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) has bestowed the prestigious title of Global Tourism Icon upon Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the tourism industry.This esteemed accolade, that was presented yesterday (March 6), comes as a testament to Minister Bartlett’s relentless dedication to promoting sustainable tourism practices, fostering cultural exchange, and advancing the tourism sector on a global scale. He has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at enhancing visitor experiences, building resilience and creating economic opportunities for local communities through tourism.
      Upon receiving the title of Global Tourism Icon, the Minister expressed gratitude to the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association for this esteemed recognition. He emphasized the importance of collective action in advancing the tourism industry, underscoring the role of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity in shaping the future of travel.
      “It has been my life’s mission to ensure that the tourism sector in Jamaica flourishes in terms of arrivals, earnings, economic growth and resilience. I am pleased that through public-private sector partnerships we have not only weathered the most devastating period in global tourism history, but have elevated Jamaica as a premier travel destination and also set a benchmark for excellence in the global tourism landscape,” said Minister Bartlett.The Pacific Area Travel Writers Association’s decision to honour Minister Bartlett as a Global Tourism Icon reaffirms his status as a visionary leader and trailblazer in the field of tourism. His unwavering commitment to excellence and sustainability serves as an inspiration to industry professionals and travellers alike.
      Minister Bartlett is leading a delegation at ITB Berlin, the world’s largest travel trade show. With over 20 thousand participants expected this year, ITB Berlin is viewed as an important platform for the international tourism industry, facilitating knowledge and networking.

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      Europe winners revealed at World Travel Awards 2024 in Berlin

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      Europe winners revealed at World Travel Awards 2024 in Berlin

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      Tourism royalty convened for the spectacular World Travel Awards (WTA) Europe Gala Ceremony 2024 at the Ritz-Carlton, Berlin to find out who amongst them had been voted the continent’s best of the best.
      The red-carpet reception marked the opening leg of WTA’s Grand Tour 2024, a global search for the finest travel and tourism organisations, covering six continents.
      Greece made the headlines by claiming the accolade for ‘Europe’s Leading Destination’. Portugal also enjoyed a glittering evening, with the Atlantic archipelago of Madeira winning ‘Europe’s Leading Island Destination’, Braga named ‘Europe’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination’, and Azores collecting ‘Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination.’
      In the newcomer categories, the stylish grandeur of The Peninsula London was acknowledged as ‘Europe’s Leading New Hotel’. The captivating coastal hideaway of One&Only Aesthesis, Athens was hailed ‘Europe’s Leading New Resort’. Spain’s Casa Palacio Don Ramón took ‘Europe’s Leading New Boutique Hotel’. And Berlin’s Deutschlandmuseum – an immersive journey through 2,000 years of German history – was voted ‘Europe’s Leading New Tourist Attraction’.
      Hospitality sector winners included Istanbul’s Çırağan Palace Kempinski, voted ‘Europe’s Leading Hotel’, whilst Sardinia’s Forte Village took ‘Europe’s Leading Resort’. Seven Visions Resort & Places, The Dvin – the fascinating new attraction in the heart of Armenia’s capital Yerevan – was declared ‘Europe’s Leading Entertainment Hotel’. Savoy Palace, Madeira won ‘Europe’s Leading Luxury Hotel’. The Convention Centre Dublin claimed ‘Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre’. Brand winners included Citadines (‘Europe’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand’); Kaizen Hoteles (‘Europe’s Leading Independent Hotel Group’); and Delphina Hotels & Resorts (‘Europe’s Leading Green Independent Hotel Group’).ADVERTISEMENTAviation winners included Lufthansa collecting ‘Europe’s Leading Airline’, whilst Zurich Airport was voted ‘Europe’s Leading Airport’. British Airways claimed ‘Europe’s Leading Airline – Business Class’ and Turkish Airlines won ‘Europe’s Leading Airline – Economy Class’. TAP Air Portugal also enjoyed a fruitful evening, taking Europe’s Leading Airline to South America. Europe’s Leading Airline Lounge went to THE LOFT by Brussels Airlines and Lexus @ Brussels Airport.
      Graham Cooke, Founder, WTA, says: “It has been a privilege to host the opening ceremony of our 2024 Grand Tour in Berlin for an incredible evening acknowledging the pinnacle of Europe’s travel and tourism economy. I congratulate each and every one of our winners for helping to raise the collective benchmark to even greater heights.”
      Other winners included La Clef Champs-Elysées Paris (‘Europe’s Leading Serviced Apartments’); THE VIEW Lugano (‘Switzerland’s Leading Design Hotel’); Johnnie Walker Princes Street (‘Europe’s Leading Spirit Tourism Experience’).
      Find more information and a full list of winners on the official WTA website. https://www.worldtravelawards.com/

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      Red Sea Global and Four Seasons Announce New Luxury Wellness Resort and Residences

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      Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind the regenerative tourism destinations AMAALA and The Red Sea, and leading luxury hospitality and branded residential company Four Seasons announce the development of a new luxury wellness resort and Private Residences at Triple Bay AMAALA.
      Marking a new chapter for comprehensive wellness tourism, Four Seasons is the latest luxury hospitality brand to be announced at Triple Bay, the pinnacle of luxury wellness tourism along Saudi Arabia’s northwestern coast. Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay will feature 220 keys comprising of rooms and suites, as well as villas with their own private pools, and 26 branded residential villas, all thoughtfully designed to offer breathtaking bay and sea views, setting the stage for Four Seasons renowned luxury service and experiences for guests and residents alike.
      “AMAALA is creating a new category of coastal lifestyle with regeneration and wellness at its core. With uninterrupted views of the Hijaz Cove, Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay is designed to allow guests and residents to get back to nature, recharging their mind, body, and soul,” says John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.
      Aligned with AMAALA’s commitment to sustainability and wellbeing, wellness is a central pillar supporting the destination’s vision of people and planet first. Ideally complemented by the company’s Four Seasons For Good program, and its longstanding commitment to wellbeing across the entire guest and resident experience, Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay will focus on building highly personalized itineraries dedicated to wellness seekers worldwide.
      “Our new Resort and Residences in AMAALA at Triple Bay will perfectly complement Four Seasons growing collection of properties within the Kingdom’s dynamic destinations, and marks our second collaboration with Red Sea Global,” says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development, Portfolio Management and Residential, Four Seasons. “We’re honoured to be part of this exceptional development, creating a new luxury lifestyle experience for guests and residents, further expanding Four Seasons footprint within Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing tourism industry.”ADVERTISEMENTFour Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay will include a luxury spa nestled within its garden of tranquillity and inspiration featuring a sculptured waterfall. The Organic Spa Garden will be a focal point and treatment experience set to stimulate the senses, offering extensive therapeutic remedies including halotherapy, cryotherapy, and advanced skin therapies.
      For fitness enthusiasts, the property will offer a bespoke collaboration with fitness trainer Harley Pasternak to seamlessly merge high-performance training with the limitless potential of Triple Bay’s 300 hectares (741 acres) of untouched hills, wadis, and beaches. The pristine terrain includes trails perfect for canyoning and exploring the rugged cliffs and valleys. Guests and residents can also take part in an array of guided hikes, mountain biking, equestrian bridle trails, or work on their game at the spectacular 27-hole oceanfront golf course. 
      In addition to the myriad wellness offerings, the new property will feature six restaurant and bar outlets, meetings and event spaces, an expansive Kids For All Seasons program, and a Discovery Centre for guests and residents to learn about the local surroundings.
      Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA Design Concept
      The Resort and Residences are being designed by acclaimed architects U+A, inspired by the destination’s unique setting nestled between the foothills of the rugged Hijazi Mountains and the tranquil blue waters of Hijaz Cove on the Red Sea coast. The Resort will take full advantage of its spectacular vistas using the terrain to offer guests rooms, villas, and penthouses with uninterrupted views of their natural surroundings. Lush landscapes adorn all parts of the Resort balancing shade, light, colour, and texture, interspersed with pools and water features that provide guests with points of interest, discovery, and contemplation. The aesthetic will be one of refined elegance, drawing on the influences of traditional architecture, interior design, and craftsmanship to deliver a contemporary design style.
      Guests will be greeted on arrival with a grand entry that opens onto the manicured grounds and an expansive panoramic view capturing Hijaz Island and the spectacular sunsets of the Red Sea. A variety of rooms and villas will provide guests with a range of space and configuration options, interspersed by beautifully designed outdoor spaces including the Water Garden, Cascade Garden, and the Wellness Garden.
      Martin Dufresne, Design Principle at U+A, says, “Nature is a key part of this resort, as it is for the ethos of Four Seasons luxury properties around the world. We used landscaping unsparingly, yet very deliberately, to frame the spectacular views of the bay, to guide guests and residents between the different amenities and to create feelings of calm and serenity throughout the property.”
      After a day of new experiences, a Four Seasons Sleep Concierge will offer à la carte turndown menus with a choice of bath products, pillow scents, custom turndown music, mattress and pillow filling, pre-set vibrating and adjustable bed settings complete with circadian light automated settings.
      The Resort will also feature a 550 square metre (5,920 square foot) ballroom with an adjacent event lawn offering panoramic views to Hijaz Cove, perfect for weddings and other celebrations.
      The 26 Private Residences will comprise of exquisite villas ranging from 320 square metres (3,444 square feet) to more than 650 square metres (6,996 square feet), each with their own pools and beautiful ocean views.
      Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay will be the latest in Four Seasons growing portfolio in the Kingdom, joining Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, as well as upcoming projects at The Red Sea on Shura Island, Jeddah at the Corniche, NEOM at Sindalah, and Diriyah. 
      Phase One of AMAALA – focused on the Triple Bay masterplan – is well underway, with the first guests set to be welcomed in 2025. It will consist of 12 resorts offering upwards of 2,000 hotel keys. Once complete, AMAALA will be home to more than 3,900 hotel rooms across 29 hotels, and approximately 1,200 luxury residential villas, apartments, and estate homes, supporting high-end retail, fine dining, wellness and recreational facilities.

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      Zayed International Airport Revolutionizes Passenger Experience with IDEMIA’s Biometric Solutions

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      Zayed International Airport Revolutionizes Passenger Experience with IDEMIA’s Biometric Solutions

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      In a landmark achievement for air travel technology, Zayed International Airport has successfully processed over one million passengers through Abu Dhabi’s new terminal since its inauguration on 15 November 2023. This marks a significant milestone in the journey towards enhanced travel efficiency and security, showcasing the power of cutting-edge biometric technology.
      Building on a long-term commitment to advancing airport capabilities, IDEMIA has been at the forefront of innovation in the UAE since 2011. The deployment of a comprehensive border management solution at Abu Dhabi Airport, featuring the world’s first multi-biometric entry/exit system, has significantly bolstered border security while simultaneously enhancing the passenger experience and throughput. The success of this groundbreaking project has led to its extension to the country’s four other international airports.
      The Single Token Journey (STJ) solution, a highlight of this collaboration, employs advanced facial recognition technology to streamline the passenger experience. By assigning a unique digital identifier to every traveler, the STJ solution eliminates the need for multiple documents, enabling passengers to move from curb to gate, including the border clearance step, in a record time of just 12 minutes.
      Elena Sorlini, MD and CEO, Zayed International Airport said: “The initial rollout of cutting-edge biometrics at Zayed International Airport underscores our dedication to enhancing airport experiences through innovation and technology, ensuring efficiency, convenience, and superior service. Once fully implemented, Abu Dhabi will pioneer as the world’s first airport with biometrics integrated at every stage, ensuring travelers enjoy a seamless, safe, and secure journey.”
      Osama Al Makhamreh, Vice President, Sales – Middle East & Africa, IDEMIA Public Security commented on this achievement: “We are thrilled to witness the transformative impact of our biometric solutions at Zayed International Airport’s new terminal. This milestone is not just a testament to our successful collaboration with Zayed International Airport but also a clear indicator of our commitment to enhancing the travel experience through innovation. The processing of over one million passengers since November is a significant achievement for us, and it underscores the scalability, security, and efficiency of the STJ solution. Together, we are setting a new global standard for passenger facilitation.”ADVERTISEMENTThis innovative approach not only enhances security but significantly improves the overall passenger experience. The success of the STJ solution at Zayed International Airport marks a pioneering step towards transforming air travel across the Middle East and potentially the world.
      The initiative aligns with Zayed International Airport’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies that streamline the travel process, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leading hub for technological advancement and superior passenger facilitation.
      For more information, visit www.idemia.com

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      More than 40% of UAE residents are not getting enough quality sleep

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      More than 40% of UAE residents are not getting enough quality sleep

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      A recent sleep survey conducted by Premier Inn Middle East in collaboration with Silentnight Arabia, UK’s most trusted sleep brand, has revealed new insights into the sleep quality and habits of UAE residents. The survey, which polled more than 950 individuals ahead of Sleep Awareness Week from 10 to 16 March and World Sleep Day on 15 March, shows that more than 40% of UAE residents are not getting the right amount of sleep and can improve their sleep quality significantly.
      Simon Leigh, Managing Director, Premier Inn Middle East, said: “Our survey findings underscore the massive opportunity for people to enhance their sleep quality. At Premier Inn, we are invested in sleep and understand the crucial role it plays in overall well-being. Through our partnership with Silentnight Arabia, we’re committed to providing our guests with cutting-edge sleep technology in our rooms and sleep tips to take home with.”
      Quality of SleepWhile the majority of respondents (80%) reported that they feel as though they get a good’s night of sleep with 56% sleeping 6 to 8 hours per night, a whopping 41% sleep less than 6 hours per night.
      Hannah Shore, sleep expert at Silentnight Arabia comments; “Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours of good quality sleep per night, 6 hours is on the lower end. We must allow our bodies the right amount of time in each stage of sleep to fully recover – 5 cycles of 90 minutes per night. Deep sleep repairs the body physically whereas light sleep benefits the brain function and emotional processing.”
      “Alarmingly, more than 40% of respondents sleep less than 6 hours per night. This substantial percentage questions the accuracy of self-perceived sleep quality. While most respondents rate their sleep as good or excellent, a high number is not getting the right amount of sleep and could improve their sleep quality significantly.”ADVERTISEMENTSleep DisturbancesA third (32%) of respondents indicated that they suffer from an irregular sleep schedule. Shore explains: “A consistent sleep schedule ensures a good night of sleep. Irregular sleep patterns, like late nights and weekend lie-ins, lead to social jetlag, making Monday mornings much tougher.”Sleep can be disrupted by many factors; stress being number 1 in the survey (48%). “Stress triggers elevated levels of cortisol, which disrupts the production of sleep hormones. This response originates from our primal instincts: we only sleep when we feel safe.”
      Temperature and climate also scored high on the survey (36%). “Maintaining a slightly cooler core body temperature is crucial for good quality sleep. While airconditioning is common in our hot climate, its noise and air drying effect can disrupt sleep.” Interestingly, almost 80% of people report that they sleep best in winter due to naturally lower temperatures, reducing the need for air conditioning.
      Using electronic devices before bedtime also ranks high on the list (26%). “They aren’t as bad as often thought. While excessive blue light exposure can disturb sleep, content like meditation, podcasts, or familiar TV shows can actually be soothing.”
      “Background noises at bedtime are beneficial, but they should be low in volume and have gentle tones to promote sleep. Noises like construction (25%) or traffic (24%) tend to alert us and cause wakenings.”
      Sleep Habits
      Sleep RoutinesAn effective wind-down routine helps the body and mind relax from the day’s activities. The most popular sleep routine among respondents is to watch TV before bed (35%). Shore elaborates: “This can be a great way to help your brain switch off from the day, as long as it’s something familiar and comforting, like a re-run of Friends.”
      Avoiding caffeine (34%) ranks second on the list. “Caffeine binds to brain receptors, telling us we’re awake. But if consumed too close to bedtime, its effects might linger due to its long half-life, which can last up to 10 hours! When opting for herbal teas and juices (18%), make sure they are caffeine free.”
      Evening routines should facilitate a decrease in body temperature. 23% of respondents actively lower the room temperature. “However, activities such as exercising (13%), hot baths and large meals can all cause spikes in our core body temperature, therefore we should avoid doing these too close to bedtime.”
      Listening to podcasts or music (23%), and reading a book (15%) are also popular hobbies before bedtime.
      Last thing before bed34% of people brush their teeth as the last thing they do before bed. “This can actually be quite stimulating, says Shore, with bright bathroom lights and strong minty toothpaste waking the body up again.”
      Checking social media before bed ranks second with 29%. “Having a quick glance or watching some random videos might help certain people switch off from the day. Set a timer so you don’t lose too many valuable hours of sleep time. A substantial 25% of people end their day by saying a prayer which compliments a calm and relaxing wind-down routine.”
      Going to bedThe majority of respondents (55%) reported going to bed between 10pm and midnight, while a significant number (27%) goes to sleep after midnight.“The time which we go to bed is unique to each of us”, explains Shore. “It depends on the circadian rhythm, our internal body clock, that regulates our sleep-wake cycle and chronotype; morning or evening person. Chronotypes may change, shifting towards later sleep in adolescense – this is why teenagers lay in bed all day – and towards more morning-oriented routines in later stages of life.”
      Waking upNearly half (47%) of the respondents wake up between 6am and 8am, and 36% between 4am and 6am. These wake-up times are most likely set by work and school schedules.
      The big driving force for waking up is the alarm clock (81%), followed by family members or roommates (30%), light exposure (27%) and bird song (7%). Other wake-up aids include the sound of a kettle boiling, the smell of breakfast, the body’s circadian rhythm, and the call to prayer.
      Shore comments: “If people had a more regular sleeping pattern, their body would have a natural time at which it wakes up. We shouldn’t turn all alarms off, however, waking up a few minutes before your alarm is a sign of a good sleep routine. Bright morning light also helps people to rise and shine as it supresses the production of melatonin making us feel more awake.”
      Hannah Shore’s Top 10 to sleep betterTV and devices: Tech isn’t always bad. If you are using a device before bed, use it in eye comfort mode to create calming sounds, listen to podcasts or breathing exercises. Music, pink and white sounds: Certain sounds can help you sleep such as ocean waves, rainfall and a buzzing fan.Airconditioning: Dry air from the airconditioning can lead to dryness within the skin, throat and nose which can increase snoring. Using a humidifier can help.Socks: Bed socks can increase the blood circulation which can help with cooling the body down. Earplugs: Invest in quality earplugs to block out construction and traffic noises if you live in an area prone to them.Sleep trackers: This a great way to monitor your sleep if used correctly.·      Pillows: Pick the right pillow to match your sleeping style: front and back sleepers require thin pillows, while side sleepers need thicker ones to support the gap between the ear and shoulder edge.·      Bright Light: Bright light at sunrise can easily wake you by halting sleep hormone production. Use blackout blinds, curtains, or an eye mask at home to block out this brightness.·      Work: Taking work to bed can overstimulate our minds, making it hard to switch off. If you must work in your bedroom, set up a dedicated workspace to create separation between work and sleep.·      Bed sharing: When sharing a bed, you’ll have to prioritise each other’s sleep. Separate mattresses, beds and bedrooms are more common than you think.
      For the complete overview of all sleep survey results, please click here. https://mena.premierinn.com/Admin/Content/UserFiles/Premier%20Inn%20x%20Silentnight%20Sleep%20Survey%202024.pdf
      At Premier Inn, we are all about sleep. Guests can rest easy at 11 hotels throughout Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha. For bookings, please visit premierinn.ae or call +971 600 500 503.

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      Weeva Unveils Groundbreaking AI Integration at ITB Berlin, Revolutionizing Sustainability in Travel

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      Lisbon Voted Europe’s Best MICE Destination for the First Time

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      Lisbon was voted Europe’s Best MICE Destination in 2023 for the first time at the 4th edition of the World MICE Awards, which took place last night in Berlin, Germany.The same event also saw the 31st European edition of the World Travel Awards, in which Lisbon was also voted Europe’s Best Urban Destination in 2024.
      Last year and to date, 2251 events have been registered in Lisbon, attracting more than 592,178 participants from all over the world. The privileged location, the modern and versatile infrastructures, as well as the excellent accessibility, combined with the transversality of cultural experiences, have made Lisbon an unavoidable choice in Europe for organising events. Since 2019, Lisbon has been ranked 2nd in the ICCA World Ranking, having previously been consecutively in the Top Ten.

      The MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) segment plays a significant role in Lisbon’s economy, making a significant contribution to tourism and the city’s economic development, particularly in terms of revenue generation and job creation. It’s worth remembering that in 2022 and 2023, the Lisbon Tourism Association (ATL) made over 1 million euros available for attracting and supporting congresses, corporate events and association events, through the Lisbon Tourism Development Fund (financed with revenue generated by the tourist tax) and ATL’s participation in the national programme, Portugal Events, with 25% of the overall funding.
      ADVERTISEMENTThe prospects for holding international events in Lisbon are promising. “We continue to work to attract the attention of international event organisers and participants.  Lisbon stands out not only for its unique DNA, but also for the professionalism of its companies, its excellent hotels, accessibility, organisational capacity, cultural offer and the widest range of possible experiences. Lisbon continues to be a pioneer in offering unique and unrepeatable experiences,” says Paula Oliveira, Executive Director of the Lisbon Tourism Association.

      As an urban destination, Lisbon stands out for its historical heritage, vibrant culture, welcoming atmosphere, diverse cuisine and authentic visitor experience, with its historic districts, colourful tiles, panoramic viewpoints, urban art, modernity and cultural attractions, from museums and art galleries to internationally renowned concerts and festivals.

      The World MICE Awards, considered the “sister” event of the World Travel Awards, celebrate excellence in the MICE industry and annually reward destinations, airlines, hotels, organisers and infrastructures related to this sector.

      The World Travel Awards, internationally acclaimed as the “Oscars of Tourism”, annually honour the excellence achieved by tourist destinations, hotel companies, airlines and other entities related to the tourism industry. These awards represent a seal of quality and a stamp of prestige for those who excel in providing the best that the tourism industry has to offer on a global level.

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