More stories

  • in

    Abu Dhabi to host Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition on 2nd September

    Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers Club (EFC), the 20th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX 2023), will be held from 2 to 8 September 2023.The exhibition, which is the largest of its kind in the Middle East and Africa, will feature 11 diverse sectors, including arts and crafts, equestrian, falconry, hunting tourism and safari, hunting and camping equipment, hunting and shooting sports guns and equipment, preservation of environment and cultural heritage, outdoor leisure vehicle and equipment, veterinary products and services, fishing equipment and marine sports, and media.
    The Higher Organising Committee of ADIHEX announced that the exhibition will be held over a period of seven days for the third time in its history, in response to the demands of both visitors and exhibitors. Local, regional, and international companies have praised this qualitative shift within the exhibition development strategy, reflecting the increasing public turnout, and meeting the aspirations of falconry, hunting, equestrian and heritage enthusiasts.
    Several interactive digital services and promotional benefits were announced through the official website of ADIHEX to ensure a smooth and exceptional experience for all exhibitors.
    Majid Ali Al Mansouri, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of ADIHEX, the Secretary General of the EFC, expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, may God protect him, and to H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, Chairman of the Emirates Falconers Club, for the great support provided by Their Highnesses the Sheikhs to the exhibition, and for all the local efforts that contribute to the protection of the Emirati and human heritage.
    He expressed his contentment with the various successes of ADIHEX, and its rich program with its many features, shows, and workshops that succeeded in attracting a wide audience. He emphasised that the next edition would witness the presence of many new products, innovations, and features that meet the aspirations of exhibitors and visitors interested in the sectors of the largest hunting, equestrian, and heritage preservation exhibition in the Middle East and Africa.ADVERTISEMENTThe next edition of ADIHEX will be organised by the Emirates Falconers Club, under the theme “Sustainability and Heritage… A Reborn Aspiration”, with the official sponsorship of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC), and the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC) where the event takes place. Whereas the golden sponsor is the German company SCHIWY, the sector sponsor is Caracal International LLC, and the official automotive industry partner is ARB UAE.
    The supporting partners of ADIHEX are the Ministry of Interior, Abu Dhabi Police, the Cultural Programs and Heritage Festivals Committee, the Emirates Heritage Club, the Emirates Arabian Horse Association, the Abu Dhabi Chamber, and the British Chamber of Commerce in Abu Dhabi. The industry partners are the International Association for Falconry and Conservation of Birds of Prey, the European Foundation for Falconry and Conservation, the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, Dubai International Horse Fair, The Game Fair – France, and JAGD & HUND in Germany, and the American Chambers of Commerce in the Emirates. In addition to the visitor experience partners are Mohamed bin Zayed Falconry & Desert Physiognomy School, and the Arabian Saluki Center in Abu Dhabi.
    It is noteworthy that more than 900 companies and brands from 58 countries participated in the last edition, over an area exceeding 60,000 square meters, and provided about 150,000 visitors with the latest technologies, innovations, and trends in falconry, hunting, and equestrian industry, including hunting and camping equipment, accessories, as well as falconry tools and traditional and modern hunting methods, in addition to the best hunting destinations in the world.
    The last edition of ADIHEX hosted 127 speakers who participated in presenting their techniques, skills, visions, and professional experience through 134 specialised workshops that represented a source of knowledge, awareness, and a means for business success and development. The workshops were categorised into four educational platforms: sustainability, outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, and connect with nature.
    More than 100 live performances of birds of prey, Salukis, and police dogs (K9) were also held, along with exciting heritage and sports shows that enhanced the exhibition’s attractiveness, in addition to educational activities and innovative artistic, cultural, and scientific competitions which attracted hundreds of competitors.
    The auctions of camels and falcons were among the noticeable features of the event, and provided a valuable opportunity to get closely acquainted with some of the most important pillars of Emirati and Arab heritage and authentic traditions.

    Older
    Morocco has been announced as Premier Partner of WTM London 2023

    Newer
    The Nordic Region’s Hidden Gem for LGBTQIA+: Discover Finland More

  • in

    Morocco has been announced as Premier Partner of WTM London 2023

    The partnership with World Travel Market, 6-8th November, will turn the spotlight on Morocco.
    The Premier Partnership announcement comes as Morocco experiences growth in its tourism activity, aiming to double the number of incoming tourists to 26 million by 2030, elevating Morocco as a leading leisure destination to the world’s travel trade.It is already known that Morocco’s presence at World Travel Market London will focus on the “Morocco, Kingdom of Light” international campaign of the Moroccan National Tourism Office.Launched in April 2022, this campaign was designed to inspire a new generation of traveller, showcasing the attractions and experiences of a “contemporary and dynamic” nation.
    World Travel Market, the most influential travel and tourism event in the world, provides the perfect opportunity for Morocco to demonstrate its efforts in joining the league of highly favoured destinations.
    Morocco’s relationship with WTM spans far beyond Premier Partner of the flagship London event, as the destination has also seen tremendous success participating in ATM, ILTM, IBTM, IFTM, and IGTM. The Moroccan National Tourism Office is relying on commercial events to boost the activity of all Moroccan tourism professionals.
    Adel El Fakir, General Director of the Moroccan National Tourism Office, said:“Our presence at WTM London will be an excellent showcase to further boost the attractiveness of the Moroccan tourism destination. We will thus be in the heart of the action when tourism professionals from around the world come up with new products for 2024 and beyond, and we will also be at the forefront in terms of communication and promotion of the country.”ADVERTISEMENTJuliette Losardo, Exhibition Director at World Travel Market London, said:“We are thrilled to announce Morocco as Premier Partner for World Travel Market London 2023 and excited to support them in reaching their goals for 2030. WTM London is the world’s most influential travel and tourism event, as well as being the sourcing hub for international travel buyers, and so provides the ideal place for Morocco to showcase what they have on offer, highlighting their vibrant culture and incredible hospitality.”

    Older
    Jetstar becomes the first Australian airline to fly direct to the Cook Islands in over 30 years

    Newer
    Abu Dhabi to host Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition on 2nd September More

  • in

    Norwegian and Strawberry to establish shared “currency” for loyalty programmes

    Petter A. Stordalen, owner and founder of Strawberry (former Nordic Choice Hotels), and Geir Karlsen Photo, CEO of Norwegian.
    Norwegian and Strawberry are to establish a joint company that will provide a wider selection of services to the members of the companies’ respective loyalty programmes. The company will create a common loyalty currency and a platform where members can earn and use loyalty points across different programmes. The entity will be jointly owned by Norwegian and Strawberry, each retaining an equal ownership stake.
    The digital loyalty currency will replace the loyalty point systems which are used by various loyalty programmes today. In this way, members who earn points at hotel stays can choose to use them to pay for airfares, or vice versa.
    “We are developing our already popular loyalty programme, Norwegian Reward, by thinking outside the box and cooperating with new partners. I am very pleased to have found Strawberry as a partner and that by joining forces, we are developing a new platform which will give even more customers the opportunity to choose from a broader selection of services. We would also like to invite more partners to join this collaboration as we move forward,” said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.
    For now, the cooperation involves the loyalty programmes Norwegian Reward and Strawberry’s loyalty programme. The ambition is to grow and include new partners from the Nordics to give members even more opportunities to earn and spend loyalty points. The new company will reach out to a significant share of Nordic households from the beginning.
    “We currently offer a universe of exciting experiences and an attractive loyalty programme with fantastic partners. Strawberry’s ambition it to be relevant to more people more often. Uniting two companies with Nordic roots and histories to create a common loyalty currency is part of reaching this ambition. This will be a game changer for members and guests, providing people in the Nordic countries better and more frequent opportunities to earn and use their loyalty points. We look forward to embarking on this journey together with Norwegian,” said Petter A. Stordalen, owner and founder of Strawberry (former Nordic Choice Hotels).ADVERTISEMENTNorwegian’s and Strawberry’s loyalty programmes have a total of around 7.5 million members in the Nordic countries. Details about the company and the loyalty currency will be made public at the launch later this year. The two existing loyalty programmes of Norwegian and Strawberry will maintain their customer offering as today and continue to be owned by Norwegian and Strawberry respectively.

    Older
    COSTA CRUISES APPOINTS LUIGI STEFANELLI AS ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR THE SOUTHERN EUROPE REGION

    Newer
    Hit the slopes this Winter with Aer Lingus’ exciting new route from Cork Airport to Lyon! More

  • in

    ITB Asia 2023 Unveils Top Exhibitors and Introduces New Hall for Travel Tech Asia 2023

    ITB Asia, Asia’s leading travel trade show, is pleased to announce the top exhibitors for its highly anticipated 16th edition, set to take place from 25 – 27 October 2023 in Singapore
    Co-located with MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia, this year’s event promises three full days of networking opportunities with international exhibitors, complemented by insightful conference sessions at the threeconference theatres located at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore.
    Well ahead of the show in October, many exhibitors confirmed their participation with expansion at ITB Asia 2023. With an impressive line-up of National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) including Brand USA, Croatian National Tourist Board, Czech Tourism Authority, Japan National Tourism Organization, Jordan Tourism Board, Korea Tourism Organization, Malta Tourism Authority, Marianas Visitors Authority, PROMPERU, Singapore Tourism Board, Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, Tourism Seychelles, Visit Estonia, Visit Finland, Visit Iceland, Visit Maldives, Visit Monaco, Visit Norway, and more.
    Attendees can expect a comprehensive showcase of global destinations and tourism products. Latest floorplan can be found on: itb-asia.com/floorplan
    “At ITB Asia attendees can feel the pulse of innovation, network with global trailblazers and boost their business growth to seize the opportunity to shape the future of the travel industry. By expanding the Travel Tech segment with another hall, we’re opening doors to limitless possibilities, ensuring we stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry”, says Katrina Leung, Managing Director of Messe Berlin (Singapore), the organiserof ITB Asia, MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia.Trade visitors are invited to join the event with an all-access pass, granting entry to all three shows – ITB Asia, MICE Show Asia, and Travel Tech Asia. They can take advantage of the Super Early Bird rate available until 3 September 2023 by registering at www.itbasia.com/visit-register.ADVERTISEMENTNew hall dedicated to Travel Tech AsiaIn conjunction with ITB Asia, Travel Tech Asia will expand its exhibition and conference theatres at Level 1 of Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. Travel Tech Asia is the most important travel technology marketplace for digital travel leaders. Building on its successful comeback last year, the show will feature exhibitors from the travel technology sector, including renowned companies like Amerilink InternationalCorporation, DerbySoft, Go Global Travel, Hotelbeds, Infor, Korea Tourism Startup Center, Rakuten Travel Xchange, SUNRATE, Trip.com, TBO Holidays, and UNIFIFI Group.
    Travel Tech buyers who are sourcing for travel technology systems may apply for a free pass on: www.traveltechasia.com/visitor
    For visitors specifically interested in travel technologies, the Travel Tech Asia Visitor Pass offers exclusive access to the Travel Tech Asia exhibition and conferences. The Super Early Bird rate is available now, visitors may register before 3 September 2023 at: www.traveltechasia.com/visitor.

    Older
    Jet2.com celebrates 15 years in Corfu

    Newer
    COSTA CRUISES APPOINTS LUIGI STEFANELLI AS ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR THE SOUTHERN EUROPE REGION More

  • in

    Jet2.com celebrates 15 years in Corfu

    On 30th June 2008, the first Jet2.com flight landed in Corfu from Newcastle International Airport and a decade and a half later the leading leisure airline is celebrating 15 years of operating award-winning flights to Corfu. Since 2008, when Jet2.com operated just one route to Corfu, the company has enjoyed tremendous growth, both through Jet2.com and the UK’s largest tour operator Jet2holidays, with over one million customers having travelled to the destination.
    Today, the companies operate to Corfu from nine of their UK bases (Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, London Stansted, Manchester and Newcastle International) and have over 300,000 seats on sale to the destination this summer. 
    In addition, Jet2holidays has nearly 100 hotels on sale in Corfu for Summer 23 and Jet2Villas, which offers customers their own villa and complete privacy alongside the benefits of a package holiday, has over 30 villas on sale this summer to the ever-popular Greek island. 
    With up to 41 weekly flights arriving from the UK during peak periods this summer, customers and independent travel agents have unrivalled choice and flexibility when it comes to booking and travelling on award-winning flights and ATOL package holidays to Corfu this summer.
    In addition to booking and travelling on award-winning flights and package holidays, customers can experience and enjoy the company’s VIP customer service which has seen Jet2.com and Jet2holidays win high-profile accolades, such as Which? Recommended Provider.  ADVERTISEMENTThis VIP customer service includes friendly low fares, great flight times and a generous 22kg baggage (plus 10kg hand baggage) allowance through a flight-only booking with Jet2.com. Holidaymakers booking through the UK’s largest tour operator, Jet2holidays, receive that very same VIP customer service and flights through Jet2.com, as well as in-resort Customer Helpers, 24/7 customer helpline, transfers, free child places and ATOL protection, all for a low £60 per person booking deposit. 
    Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “This year marks 15 years since we started operating to Corfu, when we had just one route on sale. Today, we operate an enormous programme with unrivalled frequency to Corfu from the UK and have flown over a million customers to this magnificent destination. Such growth and success over the last two decades would not be possible without the fantastic partnerships we have in Corfu, and I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to hoteliers, airports, tourist boards and all our partners. As we continue to grow and take more customers to Corfu on our award-winning flights and holidays, we will continue to put that partnership approach at the very heart of everything that we do and bring even more happy holidaymakers to the destination.” 
    Eleni Skarveli, Greece National Tourism Organisation, Director UK & Ireland, added: “Congratulations to Jet2.com on their 15th anniversary of connecting travellers to the picturesque island of Corfu! Over the years, Jet2.com has provided exceptional service and unforgettable experiences to all their customers visiting Greece. The bond between British travellers and Corfu runs deep, with shared history, cultural exchanges and cherished memories of ginger beer and cricket. Corfu’s idyllic landscapes, adorned with olive groves and turquoise waters, have beckoned British travellers for generations. This strong connection has been nourished by Jet2.com over the last 15 years, offering memorable holidays in Corfu and creating amazing stories. Here’s to reaching 100!”

    Older
    Saudia launches new route to Birmingham

    Newer
    ITB Asia 2023 Unveils Top Exhibitors and Introduces New Hall for Travel Tech Asia 2023 More

  • in

    ITE HCMC 2023: Discover Vietnam and Global Top Travel Destinations

    ITE HCMC 2023 – The largest and most established travel event in Vietnam and Mekong sub-region will take place from 07 – 09 September 2023 at the Saigon Exhibition & Convention Center (SECC), District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
    On June 24th 2023, Vietnam National Assembly approved the amendments and supplements of the Law on Foreigners’ Entry into, Exit from, Transit through, and Residence in Vietnam, including extending the e-visa validity period to 90 days. This policy is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Vietnam’s tourism industry and create a boost to promote its development, attracting international visitors in the coming time. Furthermore, promotion and marketing are essential activities to boost tourism development and enhance destination’s competitiveness. ITE HCMC is considered one of the important and effective solutions for this purpose.
    The 17th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City, themed “Connectivity, Growth, Sustainability”, offers three full days of opportunities to network with international and local exhibitors, as well as high-level forums, informative seminars, and top-notch entertainment experiences.
    This year, ITE HCMC 2023 will double its scale compared to last year with exceptional quality. Therefore, the event is expected to attract leaders in the international travel industry and over 400 exhibiting companies & brands, of which, the booths from domestic units make up more than 70% and about 30% are international units. As of the end of June 2023, the exhibition has covered over 70% of the exhibition area, with the participation of National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) from countries such as Cambodia, Chile, Taiwan (China), Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Japan, the Philippines, and Thailand; Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs) from St.Petersburg (Russia), Seoul (South Korea), and over 45 provinces and cities of Vietnam, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho City, Da Nang City, Hai Phong City, An Giang, Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Bac Lieu, Ben Tre, Binh Dinh, Binh Phuoc, Binh Thuan, Ca Mau, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Dong Nai, Dong Thap, Gia Lai, Ha Giang, Ha Tinh, Hau Giang, Kien Giang, Kontum, Lai Chau, Lao Cai, Lang Son, Lam Dong, Long An, Khanh Hoa, Ninh Binh, Ninh Thuan, Nghe An, Phu Yen, Quang Binh, Quang Nam, Quang Ninh, Quang Tri, Soc Trang, Tay Ninh, Thanh Hoa, Tien Giang, Thua Thien – Hue, Tra Vinh, Vinh Long, and Yen Bai.
    In addition, the exhibition has attracted the leading tourism businesses such as Saigontourist Group, BenThanh Tourist, Vietravel, Tan Son Nhat Hotel, Holiday Inn & Suites Saigon Airport, Melia Hotels International, Movenpick, Tam Chuc National Tourism Area, Tung Lam Tourism Area, Muong Thanh Hospitality, and other sponsor in-kind: The Cocoon Vietnam, BLUSaigon and many more.ADVERTISEMENTITE HCMC 2023 will be held in a hybrid format, combining physical booths and 2D online booths. These online booths will inform international buyers about products, services and a pre-appointment booking system to connect with sellers. Furthermore, the local experience areas will also be the highlight of this year’s expo when displaying and introducing the unique cultural features of Vietnam to international firms and the public through handicrafts, coffee, traditional art workshops, and many more.
    Moreover, ITE HCMC has the exclusive Hosted Buyer Program which provides an opportunity for international tourism businesses to grow their markets and broaden tourism partners’ networks in Vietnam and the Lower Mekong region. The Organizing Committee, together with the Advisory Board comprised of the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham), and leading tourism businesses, to select and invite over 200 international buyers from 20 countries and territories (increasing by more than 25% compared to 2022). The Hosted Buyer Program is expected to welcome decision makers from international travel agencies, MICE travel companies, luxury travel companies from key inbound markets and potential markets like mainland China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, USA, Canada, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Australia, India, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait and many more.
    Within the framework of ITE HCMC 2023, Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism also cooperates with the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism to organize many exciting activities such as Gala Dinner x World Travel Award – Asia & Oceania Ceremony, Seminar on the introduction of key tourist markets, ITE HCMC Awards 2023, Travel Fun Fair Day and many more.
    ITE HCMC 2023 is organized under the guidance of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, organized by Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism and Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, in collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Promotion Center, CIS Vietnam, and Le Bros.
    Event information:Exhibition date: 07 – 09 September 2023
    09:00 – 16:00, 07 – 08 September 2023: exclusively for business visitors16:00 – 18:00, 07 – 08 September 2023: for both business visitors and the public09:00 – 18:00, September 9th, 2023: open to the publicVenue: Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), 799 Nguyen Van Linh, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City.
    Highlight events:
    Ribbon-cutting CeremonyBusiness matching program between international buyers and exhibitorsHigh-level Tourism Forum on “Digital Transformation Driving Tourism Development” chaired by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City.ASEAN Public Relations and Communications Forum “Destination Marketing & Sustainable Communications”Series of tourism industry seminarsITE HCMC Award 2023World Travel Awards – Asia Pacific CeremonyASEAN PR Excellence Awards 2023 CeremonyVietnam NightCambodia NightWelcome Dinner and Destination survey program for international buyers and pressThank you PartyThe travel agents who are sourcing for Vietnam’s tourism services and products may apply for Hosted Buyer Program via https://itehcmc.travel/buyer-3/buyer-registration/
    For National Tourism Organizations (NTOs), Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs) and travel businesses, who want to showcase their travel services and products may book a stand via www.itehcmc.travel.

    Older
    Advantage Mr Toad’s!  Catch all the Wimbledon tennis action at Premier Inn this July

    Newer
    Kenya Airways set sights on business recovery by 2024 More

  • in

    CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi launches Junior Flying Club summer package for kids

    CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi has announced the return of the Junior Flying Club, offering little ones the chance to make the most out of their summer experience with a record-breaking adventure every Saturday at 1:30 PM, starting this week and running until August 20.
    Kids up to 14 years can learn how to fly like a pro for an unforgettable adrenaline kick inside the world’s largest indoor skydiving chamber. Every guest will be directed under the supervision of personalized instructors and in a secure environment according to their respective groups.
    The Junior Flying Club at CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi provides young adventurers with a fun flying experience, encompassing a total of 20 flights. Each session comprises five flights, during which dedicated instructors offer a comprehensive briefing and debriefing ahead of the session. As part of the package, kids can rent flight gear and receive personalized skill and progression monitoring from the instructors, along with a tailored development plan.

    All passes purchased are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase and little ones can avail up to a 35% discount on the Junior Flying Club once registered. CLYMB Abu Dhabi’s unique offering aims to inspire young minds and encourage them to pursue their dreams of reaching to new heights in a controlled and supervised environment.ADVERTISEMENTFor more information visit: https://www.clymbabudhabi.com/en/tickets/junior-flying-club
    Yas Island and its world-class theme parks, experiences and attractions were recognised with seven awards in the globally renowned World Travel Awards in 2022. In addition to scooping the accolade of World’s Leading Theme Park Destination 2022, Yas Island received the flagship Middle East’s Leading Tourism Development award for the fourth consecutive year, testament to the global reputation Yas Island has as a leisure and entertainment hub.

    Older
    The Rixos Way for a Legendary Holiday in Turkey

    Newer
    Advantage Mr Toad’s!  Catch all the Wimbledon tennis action at Premier Inn this July More

  • in

    More Than Two-thirds of Asia Pacific’s Gen Z and Millennials Intend to Holiday Closer to Home

    A regional survey by global luxury hospitality leader Marriott International has coined a term to describe a new generation of travelers set to disrupt the industry over the next few years. ‘Native Explorers’ recognizes a tribe of affluent millennial and Gen Z travelers in Asia Pacific who are bucking the trend by traveling in reverse order to generations before them.While their predecessors may be saving up for more costly long-haul travel later in life, Native Explorers are already well-traveled at a younger age, with one in four notching up no less than two continents outside of Asia Pacific by the time they hit 26. Despite having the means, Native Explorers claim they will be spending their travel dollars closer to home for at least the next two years, as 85% believe that they have yet to fully discover all the region has to offer.
    The survey across Australia, China, Japan, India, Singapore, and South Korea was commissioned to better understand the attitudes of affluent millennial and Gen Z travelers and help luxury brands meet their evolving aspirations.
    With their sights firmly set on holidays closer to home, Native Explorers rank Japan (52%), South Korea (42%), and New Zealand (39%) as their top three travel destinations. They are also seeking out the new in familiar hotspots such as Australia (39%) and Thailand (32%) through a culture-centric lens. Although one in four Native Explorers would prefer to beat the jetlag and pick nearby, fuss-free holidays, their sense of adventure shouldn’t be underestimated: 43% look for nature escapes and wellness experiences and 36% are looking for hidden cultural gems they have yet to discover.
    “Globally, we’re seeing an undeniable shift among travelers towards more meaningful, one-of-a-kind experiences in both new and familiar destinations. This is particularly evident in Asia Pacific from our findings on Gen Z and Millennials’ travel patterns and behaviors,” comments Bart Buiring, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Marriott International Asia Pacific “With young affluent travelers in Asia Pacific gravitating towards under-the-radar holidays and culturally-rich itineraries, we’re expanding our luxury portfolio in the region’s most sought-after destinations like Nara, Sydney and Jiuzhaigou in China with a target of opening 12 properties in 2023 alone.”
    Luxury defined by authentic connections and experience, with craft still keyNative Explorers are redefining what luxury travel means – from elusive and exclusive to meaningful connection and experiences. As they transition towards understated and authentic holidays, one in three respondents (37%) called out human connection, genuine hospitality, and being part of a community as critical components of luxury travel.ADVERTISEMENTMajority (58%) believe once-in-a-lifetime experiences and pinch-me moments are what make the luxury travel experience. Top picks include VIP access to sold-out concerts of their favorite artists (52%) and exclusive culinary workshops with celebrity chefs (36%). Marriott Bonvoy Moments, a platform where Marriott Bonvoy Members can use points earned from travel and everyday activities to bid on exclusive packages, fulfills this desire by offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences, ranging from unrivaled access to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team to closed-door sessions with celebrity chefs and artists.
    Craftsmanship remains crucial to luxury travel, over 50% believe service excellence and state-of-the-art facilities are key tenets. Personalization remains a key deciding factor in choosing a luxury hotel, with 32% expecting bespoke services such as a dedicated travel advisor and 32% preferring to stay with hotels that offer tailored itineraries and customized amenities. The Ritz-Carlton elevated Club experience was launched recently to take guests into a world of personalized luxury experiences. From pre-arrival to departure, the elevated Ritz-Carlton Club experience is available across all Ritz-Carlton hotels in Asia Pacific, where guests will find unique indulgences, curated culinary journeys, and personalized encounters that create meaningful moments.
    Explore destinations through luxury hotel comfortsCaught between their desires to discover and luxuriate, a staggering nine in 10 respondents prefer to explore the destination with assistance from their luxury hotel, rather than research and hire a local guide of their own. Almost half (45%) prefer to sample local cuisine through the property’s gourmet dining, 39% want to experience the local culture through the hotel’s curated programming, and 34% are keen to try local wellness rituals available at the hotel spa.
    Native Explorers’ thirst for cultural discovery extends to their accommodation choices, with a majority (76%) of respondents opting for hotels and resorts with destination-inspired concepts. Brand affinity remains key for Native Explorers with approximately one in three opting for destination-inspired abodes under an established luxury brand. W Hotels’ evolved design direction takes a thoughtful approach through the lens of both the brand and its location, so no two W hotels look the same.
    Marriott International’s luxury brands portfolio is poised to meet the demands of Native ExplorersMarriott International’s luxury brands portfolio is poised to meet these reimagined travel desires with hotel openings that inspire the modern traveler. The company plans to take its unrivaled portfolio of eight dynamic luxury brands to the region’s most popular travel spots such as Sydney and Bangkok and emerging destinations like Fukuoka, Japan and Jiuzhaigou, China.
    A global leader in luxury hospitality, Marriott International today operates nearly 500 luxury hotels and resorts in 68 countries and territories, including 159 properties presently in Asia Pacific. The region contributes half of the company’s global development pipeline of nearly 200 luxury properties.
    Please refer to appendix for Marriott International Luxury Brand’s top hidden travel gems for Native Explorers to uncover in Asia Pacific.

    Older
    Hyatt Place Linyi People’s Square Celebrates Official Opening

    Newer
    Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and Arora Group announce agreement More