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    UNWTO WELCOMES MEMBERS OF THE AMERICAS TO ECUADOR

    Tourism leaders from across the Americas committed to a more ethical, inclusive tourism as the sector bounces back to drive economic recovery across the region. The 68th meeting of the UNWTO Regional Commission for the Americas brought together high-level delegations from 20 countries.
    The meeting saw participants work together around shared priorities, with a focus on jobs and education, boosting investment in the sector and advancing sustainability and climate action efforts.
    The Americas: Strong demand drives tourism recovery
    According to UNWTO data, tourism in the Americas has experienced rapid recovery from the impacts of the pandemic.
    International arrivals to destinations across the Americas reached 86% of pre-pandemic levels at the end of the first quarter of 2023. International seat capacity on planes in the region is also close to pre-pandemic levels, at 97%.Several destinations in the region are already above pre-pandemic levels in terms of international arrivals, including Saint Maarten (+51%), El Salvador (+26%), Colombia (+18%), the Virgin Islands and the United States (+17%), Guatemala (+14%), Honduras (+13%) and the Dominican Republic (+11%).Strong demand from the United States outbound market has been key to driving recovery.UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “For the Americas, tourism’s recovery has been rapid and remarkable. Our Regional Commission meeting has made clear a shared commitment to make the most of this recovery by building a stronger, more resilient and more sustainable sector that delivers real benefits for many millions of people right across the region.”ADVERTISEMENTHigh-Level Support as Regional Commission Meets
    On the eve of the Regional Commission meeting, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili met with the President of Ecuador, Guillermo Lasso, reflecting his Government’s strong support for tourism as a key pillar of sustainable economic development, both in the country and across the region. Also participating in the Commission meeting were Ministers and Vice-Ministers of Tourism from 15 countries. Key achievements of the Commission Meeting included:
    Legal Protection for Tourists: Chile, Costa Rica, Haiti and Honduras all announced they will adhere to the UNWTO International Code for the Protection of Tourists. This landmark legal first is designed to provide comprehensive and harmonized legal protection for tourists, thereby boosting confidence in travel and making the responsibilities of different tourism stakeholders more transparent. From the region, Ecuador, Guatemala, Paraguay and Uruguay have already adhered to the Code.Tourism Law: UNWTO announced plans to establish a first UNWTO Observatory on Tourism Law for Latin America and the CaribbeanTourism Education and Youth Empowerment: Member States were updated on UNWTO’s progress in one of its priority areas, with achievements in the region including UNWTO Academy courses held in Argentina and Mexico, collaboration on specialist tourism courses with the Universidad Anáhuac in Mexico.Tourism Investments: UNWTO has produced Investments Guides for Dominican Republic, Colombia and Paraguay, with seven more focused on countries in the region set to follow. In Quito, UNWTO also hosted a special Investments Seminar and announced the next step in its collaboration with CAF, the Investment Bank of Latin America.Collaboration: UNWTO signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Honduras around tourism for sustainable development.Looking Ahead
    In line with UNWTO’s statutory obligations, Members from the Americas agreed:
    Argentina and Paraguay will serve as Vice-Presidents for the UNWTO General Assembly, set to be held in October.The Dominican Republic will serve as President of the Regional Commission for the Americas for 2023-2025. Argentina and Paraguay will serve as Vice-Presidents for the same period.Colombia and Jamaica will serve on the UNWTO Executive Council for 2023-2027.The 69th Regional Commission meeting will be held in Cuba in 2024. Peru will then host the 70th meeting in 2025.

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    EU Travel & Tourism sector recovering strongly says WTTC

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    EU Travel & Tourism sector recovering strongly says WTTC

    The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) today reveals the EU Travel & Tourism sector is forecast to reach 98% of the 2019 peak.The sector is set to contribute €1.44BN to the economy this year, edging close to the 2019 pre-pandemic high of €1.47BN.
    WTTC is also forecasting that the sector will create more than 687K jobs this year, recovering almost 90% of the jobs lost due to the COVID 19 pandemic to reach more than 22.4MN, with one in nine workers across the EU, in the Travel & Tourism sector.
    A look back on last year
    Last year, the Travel & Tourism sector’s GDP contribution grew by 40.5% to reach more than €1.37BN, representing 8.7% of the Bloc’s economy, edging closer to the 2019 high of 9.6% of the economy.
    Last year the sector also created 2MN more jobs from the previous year to reach 21.8MN jobs – one in ten across the EU.ADVERTISEMENTAccording to the global tourism body’s annual research, the sector has now recovered 3.1MN of the 3.6MN jobs lost during the pandemic.
    Last year also saw the return of international travellers heading to the EU with spending from overseas visitors growing 81% year on year, to reach almost €385BN.
    Domestic visitor spend fully recovered in 2022, exceeding the pre-pandemic high of €809BN, to reach €814BN.
    Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The Travel & Tourism sector in the EU is recovering strongly with high visitor demand. The number of jobs created by Travel & Tourism stands at 21.8MN, but by the end of this year it will reach nearly 22.5MN jobs, just 2% behind 2019 numbers.
    “Travel & Tourism is a key economic growth sector and driver of jobs in the EU due to the importance of the sector in so many countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain, and France. Our most recent Cities Economic Impact Report revealed that Paris remains the world’s most popular tourist destination.”
    What does the next decade look like?
    The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to almost €1.9BN by 2033, more than 10% of the EU economy and will employ over 26.3MN people across the region, with one in eight EU residents working in the sector.

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    Discover The Palm Beaches Activates Program For Accessible Tourism

    Discover The Palm Beaches, the official tourism marketing organization for Palm Beach County, Florida, proudly announces the implementation of an accessibility program aimed at bettering the community’s preparedness to welcome all travelers, no matter their ability level.
    The accessibility plan focuses on enhancing information and resources through strategic partnerships and assessments with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), Wheel the World and Travelability. The goal is to help the destination improve accessibility for all travelers by identifying places to stay and things to do, educating partners and providing resources for adaptability.
    Kicking off the program, Discover The Palm Beaches earned the Certified Autism Center™ designation, granted by IBCCES to organizations having successfully completed extensive autism-specific training and certification from leading experts to ensure all families with autism or other sensory-sensitives are understood and properly accommodated. This important milestone marks the first step for The Palm Beaches in its journey to become a Certified Autism Destination™, further establishing its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
    “The Palm Beaches prides itself on being a warm and welcoming destination for all,” stated Jorge Pesquera, President and Chief Executive Officer of Discover The Palm Beaches. “Becoming an Autism Certified Center™ is just one way to showcase our commitment to learning and evolving to better serve this travel sector. We look forward to expanding this certification to our partners and improving the options for sensory-sensitive travelers in The Palm Beaches.”
    Many autistic individuals and their families want to travel but may worry they will not be understood, welcomed, or have access to accommodations, attractions and other points of interest. Through the larger accessibility-focused program initiated by Discover The Palm Beaches to become a Certified Autism Destination™, partnerships with various area attractions, hotels, recreation and entertainment venues will complete autism and sensory training and certification, as well as onsite reviews, and have long-term access to other support. This process and designation ensures concrete steps are in place to enhance the experience for autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors, so they feel safe and enjoy a more welcoming environment. With 1 in 6 people having a sensory need or sensitivity and 1 in 36 children diagnosed with autism in the United States, the demand for more trained and certified options is at an all-time high.ADVERTISEMENT“It is crucial now more than ever to provide a deeper understanding of autistic and sensory-sensitive travelers’ needs to travel and entertainment organizations to better equip their staff to offer the best possible service and experiences to all visitors,” emphasized Myron Pincomb, Board Chairman of IBCCES. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Discover The Palm Beaches as they strengthen their commitment to accessibility ensuring that a wider range of travelers can forge unforgettable experiences together. Our certification programs and long-term support options will play a pivotal role in achieving this goal.”
    For over 20 years, IBCCES has been the leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals worldwide. IBCCES is the only credentialing organization providing this type of certification, which includes evidence-based training as well as the perspectives of autistic individuals, alongside other tools and resources such as onsite reviews and customized recommendations, and renewal requirements to ensure the program is a long-term commitment that has a lasting impact.
    IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com, as a free online resource for parents that lists certified locations and professionals. Each organization listed on the site has met Certified Autism Center™ requirements.

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    HARRY POTTER: VISIONS OF MAGIC – AN ALL-NEW INTERACTIVE ART EXPERIENCE

    Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment, in collaboration with NEON, announces the world premiere of Harry Potter: Visions of Magic, a contemporary artistic celebration of the iconic film series that promises to celebrate the world of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts in a fresh and stunning way.Harry Potter: Visions of Magic is an evocative and interactive art experience exploring some of the most mysterious corners of the Wizarding World™. Discover a series of artistic and immersive environments inspired by enigmatic places in the magical community, like the Room of Requirement, Newt’s Menagerie, the Ministry of Magic, and more. Responsive video content, bold architecture, and original soundscapes create breathtaking multi-sensory installations, while interactive technology invites guests to illuminate the invisible, revealing visions of magic that bring the entire experience to life.
    “This experience is going to leave our millions of Wizarding World fans around the world awestruck,” said Peter van Roden, Senior Vice President, Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment. “Art and technology have been masterfully harnessed and brought together with the Wizarding World to create a truly magical experience that puts the franchise on display like never before.”
    “We’re excited to partner with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment to deliver this unique experience for the first time ever,” said Ron Tan, Executive Chairman & Group CEO of NEON. “Whether you have been a fan of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts for decades, or are just now discovering these rich stories, expect to be taken on a journey like none other.”
    Information about Harry Potter: Visions of Magic, and the European city to host the world premiere will be announced later this year.  Join the exclusive waitlist today and receive priority access to pre-sale tickets to the European destination where you can be among the first to experience the evocative Harry Potter: Visions of Magic. Waitlist subscribers will also be first to learn more about the upcoming tours slated for locations around the world.
    Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and visit harrypottervisionsofmagic.com to stay up-to-date with all the latest announcements.  The event promises to be an unforgettable experience that will enchant audiences of all ages, from across the globe.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Barclays US Consumer Bank Show Travelers Prioritize Miles and Points to Make Today’s Travel Possible

    In anticipation of the busy Fourth of July holiday travel week, Barclays US Consumer Bank is releasing an excerpt from its points, loyalty, and travel report, which will be available in August 2023.Findings highlight that miles and points make it possible for consumers to travel, especially in today’s challenging economic environment.
    76% of loyalty and rewards program members couldn’t imagine taking the kinds of trips they want without the benefits of such programs
    44% of travelers say earning the most travel rewards is more important than getting the lowest price
    During times of economic uncertainty, travelers prioritize lower fees (52%), flexibility in redeeming miles and points (47%), and the ability to earn more miles and points (46%)
    Compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic, 36% of travelers are more focused on accumulating rewards now and 39% remain as focused on accumulating rewardsADVERTISEMENTBarclays partnered with independent market research company Wakefield Research, whose team conducted a survey among 1,000 U.S. adult travelers to understand attitudes, sentiments and behaviors related to travel loyalty and rewards programs. Data was collected from May 19 to May 27, 2023. “Travelers” defined as having traveled by air in the past 12 months, and likely to travel again in the next 12 months.
    For questions or to receive the full report in August, contact [email protected]

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    Jamaica Elected to Serve Four-year Term on UNWTO Executive Council

    Minister Edmund Bartlett shares lens with (from left to right) Niels Olsen, Minister of Tourism of Ecuador; Sofía Montiel de Afara, Minister of Tourism, Paraguay; and Carlos Andrés Peguero, Vice Minister of Tourism, Dominican Republic moments before the announcement of his election to the UNWTO Executive Council.
    Jamaica has been elected to serve on the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) Executive Council for 2023-2027 alongside Colombia. The decision was made during the 68th UNWTO Commission for the Americas Meeting (CAM) currently underway in Quito, Ecuador.
    In celebrating the achievement, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett said, “Jamaica has been among the top-performing countries in the Americas leading a robust recovery in travel and tourism. Being elected alongside Colombia to represent our regional colleagues is an incredible honour, and we look forward to contributing wholesomely to the organization’s thrust to promote tourism as a driver of sustainable economic growth for developing nations especially.”
    The Executive Council is responsible for the management and implementation of strategic decisions carried out by the UNWTO.
    “We are thrilled by the expression of confidence our fellow member states have shown. I continue to invite deeper collaboration among regional partners as we work to build resilience regionally and internationally. We are among the most tourism-dependent regions in the world, and it is imperative that our views are represented at the highest level,” added the tourism minister.
    Other decisions arising from the meeting include the Dominican Republic’s selection to serve as President of the Regional Commission for Americas for 2023-2025. Argentina and Paraguay have been selected to serve as Vice-Presidents of CAM for the same period as well as for the UNWTO General Assembly to be held in October. ADVERTISEMENTMinister Bartlett has been participating in a series of panels, presentations and seminars focused on tourism investment trends and opportunities in the Americas. A highlight of the 68th CAM was the Investment Seminar that explored the promotion of investments through technical cooperation, building capacity for tourism development and accessing financing that accelerates climate resilience in the regional sector.
    It was agreed that Cuba would host the 69th CAM scheduled for 2024.

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    Divine Desserts Around the World That Will Delight Your Taste Buds

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    Divine Desserts Around the World That Will Delight Your Taste Buds

    Chocolate Hour at Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island
    Press pause on your summer adventures and harness your inner Willy Wonka at the boutique MÖCA Lobby Lounge at Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island –in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, for a complimentary Chocolate Hour every day! Sweet-toothed foodies can rejoice as Mövenpick dedicates one hour in the afternoon to an exquisite tasting experience, with delicious Swiss chocolate variations and homemade creations such as brownies, truffles, chocolate fountains and much more.
    Need somewhere to relax after the chocolate indulgence? The remarkable resort boasts 418 elegantly designed rooms with unobstructed sea views, suites and chalets set against the picturesque backdrop of the Arabian Peninsula. What better place to enjoy World Chocolate Day than at the happiest hour of them all at MÖCA Lobby Lounge.

    Handmade Artisan Chocolate Truffles at Cullinan BelekADVERTISEMENTFor a fancy chocolate tasting experience, expect to be impressed by gorgeous-looking artisan chocolate truffles, handcrafted with care in Cullinan Belek’s Chocolaterie Shop, made afresh every day! The shop is open to all guests as part of the all-inclusive offerings of the resort, meaning that you can try all flavours at one go or discover a new flavour daily FOR FREE throughout your vacation.
    From gourmet chocolate-dipped kiwi fruit and strawberries to intricately prepared caramel, vanilla, and tropical fruit-flavoured truffles with a gooey or crunch core, there is something to satisfy your sweet tooth! You can even catch a glimpse of talented chocolatiers at work in the workshop behind where all the magic happens. Grab them early in the day before stocks run out and save them up for later to be savoured in the comfort of your room as a late-night treat in the evening.

    Chocolate that’s actually good for you at Nova Maldives
    For those watching their weight but don’t want to give up their chocolate craving, the health-conscious Nova Maldives offers some thoughtful options in a newly-released plant-based menu – featuring wholesome desserts with delectable flavours, think pandan semifreddo with vegan chantilly cream and dark chocolate shortbread, a selection of homemade sorbet and fruit carpaccio. Surely this will bust the false impression of vegan-food as dull and boring.
    Another must try is the signature chocolate lava cake, served warm, melting in the middle and oozing chocolate, it is offered exclusively in FLAMES, the hotel’s grill house.

    Chef’s Kiss! Personal Favourites from the Pastry Chef Fodele Beach & Water Park Holiday Resort
    Introducing some dessert eye candy handpicked by Eva Daskalaki, the gifted pastry chef behind Fodele Beach’s stunning creations, incorporating classic flavours that can hardly disappoint, from caramel glazed doughnuts to bite-sized dainty cakes topped with fruit sauce and biscuit crumbs that are best picks for children. To try out the full range of desserts available at the resort, visit each of the all-day-dining and a-la-carte restaurants range of restaurants on-site with seasonal menus – including Basilikos Restaurant that features special theme nights with cultural delicacies from Greece, Spain, Mexico and Asia, and Ambrosia Restaurant, best for a fine dining experience in an elegant atmosphere and with meticulously designed desserts that will leave an impression. Head to Breeze Bar for a drink by the beautiful outdoor terrace overlooking the Fodele bay to finish the night on a high note or soft daze, whichever you prefer.

    The Happy Place – Sweet Corner at AJUL Luxury Hotel & Spa Resort
    BRAND NEW AJUL Luxury Hotel & Spa Resort features a sweet corner full of delights for all. Lots of ice cream flavours, soft served ice cream, freshly made waffles, chocolate of all sorts, fluffy pancakes, crepes, toppings, and sweets, a bar full of sprinkles and syrups, milkshakes, birthday cakes on the spot and other sweet temptations will be there to make your holiday a little bit sweeter.

    Authentic chocolate in Jamaica
    Jamaicans love a sweet treat after a meal, don’t you? Time to indulge in some specialty Jamaican chocolate treats – made by you!
    Premium farm to table brand Pure Chocolate Jamaica is home to delicious and sustainable chocolate products. Only the best cocoa beans are selected to create its quality and creamy chocolate bars and the bars are sealed in vibrant and colourful wrappers designed by talented local Jamaican artists. Select from traditional flavours such as its Dark Chocolate, or Milk Chocolate with Cookies and Cream, or try some more of its unique flavours like Dark Chocolate with Lemongrass, or Dark Chocolate with Jerk Seasoning bars. Pure Chocolate Jamaica also host workshops and tastings for those looking to create their own chocolate treats.
    So, you’ve heard of hot chocolate, but have you heard of chocolate tea? No powdered or packaged cocoa can compare to a cup of Jamaican chocolate tea. This soothing drink is traditionally prepared steeping grated chocolate balls with milk and spices. The perfect way to end the day.

    Dessert as paintings that are a sight to behold at Kandima Maldives
    When it comes to desserts, Kandima elevates all into art so that tasting them becomes a multisensory delight. If you are a visual diner yourself who appreciates dessert plates with a concept and a beautiful presentation. Here are a few that you cannot miss with a refreshing look that alludes to nature. From the left, we have the “Mango Opera” layered with mango butter cream and chocolate ganache, followed by the “Mascarpone and Peanut Mousse” with honey drizzled mango salsa and cocoa soil, arranged in the shape of a garland. Continue the artsy journey by taking to canvas painting yourself at the KULA Art Studio, a space for you to rekindle the creativity within and unleash your inner Picasso, Van Gogh, or Andy Warhol, with guidance from the resident artist Zima.

    Bite into tradition paired with innovation at Kivotos Santorini, Mavro
    Located above the glistening Aegean Sea, sits Kivotos Santorini’s signature restaurant, MAVRO. Head Chef Dimitris has created a culinary experience that masterfully blends tradition and innovation with aromas and flavours that will intrigue your palate and soothe your soul. On the menu, you’ll find a variety of decadently delicious desserts including a caramalised white chocolate dessert with rum and raisin ice cream to tantalise your tastebuds, the milk chocolate dessert which features traditional Greek coffee, banana and banana stracciatella ice cream and vegan chocolate macarons, made with 76% dark chocolate, tahini and agave.

    Chocolate heaven at Seaside A Lifestyle Resort
    Troubles will melt away as guests relish in this incredible chocolate dessert with the sounds of the waves crashing against the cliffs in the background. Aptly named, Chocolate Heaven is available to enjoy at Seaside A Lifestyle Resort. The stunning chocolate creation consists of smooth chocolate pat sucre, chocolate crème, marinaded raisins, and caramelised cacao nibs.
    Situated in Agia Pelagia, Crete, this 5* luxurious, adults-only resort sits on the cliffside of Mononaftis Bay, with magnificent surrounding views of the Aegean Sea. Cool off after indulging and take a dip in the newly renovated outdoor saltwater outdoor pool.

    Japanese and Peruvian treats at The Ixian Grand & All Suites
    Deepen your appreciation for this remarkable treat at The Ixian Grand & All Suites – an upscale adults-only resort, offering care-free all-inclusive experiences, excellent hospitality and a plethora of food and beverage options including some delectable desserts. Make your way down to the Muza Htista Restaurant for a dessert at sunset for a truly romantic experience. Seek out their Tejas Truffles, delightful small chocolate desserts with a smooth filling made with chocolate, pecan nuts and dried fruit for some extra crunch. The Fried Ice Cream is an absolute must try for the ultimate indulgent dessert. The golden crust is made of cereal topped with chocolate syrup and inside you will find a creamy vanilla ice cream.

    Desserts with a fine dining twist ACRO Suites
    Your eyes and tastebuds will be in for a treat at ACRO Suites. This boutique, 5* state-of-the-art, wellness-focused resort is home to 49 suites, lofts and villas which all come with their own saltwater private pool, making it the perfect oasis for couples looking to escape to a quiet hideaway destination and enjoy they cocoa treats in secluded luxury.
    The signature menu at CREMNOS, the hotel’s main restaurant, is a nutritional haven, offering traditional Greek cuisine with a contemporary twist. Here guests can enjoy the Choco Secret, a chocolate dessert accompanied by a sorbet of forest fruits, cru de cacao and mint gel carefully prepared by Chef Yannis Rokanas.

    Indulgent desserts accompanied by panoramic views at Kouros Hotel & Suites
    Enjoy the delicious Chocolate Ganache at Kouros Hotel & Suites, a 5* luxury boutique haven just minutes away from Mykonos town. You can find this indulgent delicacy at Narcissus Restaurant, consisting of rich chocolate ganache, a red berry coulis, white chocolate montée, and vanilla ice cream. It is difficult to think of a better place to share moments of chocolate sweetness than overlooking the spectacular Aegean Sea, the perfect place to admire the dazzling sunset, as Mykonos’ evening buzz booms.

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    New Summit to Galvanise Policies on Culture and Heritage in Tourism

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    New Summit to Galvanise Policies on Culture and Heritage in Tourism

    A dynamic new leadership summit will grapple with major challenges and opportunities of culture and heritage in tourism. Event organiser, the World Tourism Association for Culture and Heritage, invites stakeholders to make their voices heard at the new annual summit, the first of which takes place in Valencia, Spain, 24-25 September.
    A list of respected high-level speakers from national government organisations, lending institutions, heritage organisations, tourism departments, local communities, academia, and private sector representatives will convene for a day and a half in Valencia. They will focus on creating viable businesses and building better livelihoods for people living in heritage communities connected to tourism.
    The aim of the summit is to better conserve and promote responsible cultural and heritage tourism around the world – and for tourism to be the protector of the world’s culture and heritage.
    Key sessions include the case for investment in heritage destinations, balancing tourism growth with heritage conservation, the latest global trends in cultural and heritage in tourism, better capacity building, training and education. There will be a session when anyone in the delegation can contribute.
    The World Tourism Association for Culture and Heritage (WTACH) will present the Summit with host organisation Visit Valencia in the heart of Valencia, Spain – Europe’s Green Capital 2024.ADVERTISEMENT“We believe that focused efforts can improve the lives and wellbeing of local communities and custodians through better implementation of best practices,” said Nigel Fell, CEO of WTACH.
    A sample of the stellar line-up of international guest speakers already confirmed includes:Rajan Data – BBC, London as Key Moderator, Dawn Drew – Summit MC, Global Tourism Destination Specialist – New York; Anne Grady – Senior Advisor to the European Parliament – Brussels; Imad Barrakad, Chairman SMIT (Morocco Agency for Tourism Development) – Rabat, Morocco; Bruce Poon Tip – Founder G Adventures, Toronto, Karl Burrows – Head of Maori Tourism Development – Tourism New Zealand – Auckland; Debbie Flynn – Managing Partner and Global Practice Leader – Finn Partners – London; Emma Nardi – President, International Council of Museums (ICOM) – Rome; Judy Kepher-Gona, Founder, Sustainable Travel & Tourism Agenda – Nairobi; Scott Wayne – President – SWA Development – Sustainable Destinations – Washington DC; Nada Hosking – National Geographic Explorer & Social Impact Leader – Austin, Texas; Miguel Angel Perez – Brands & Markets Director, Visit Valencia, Valencia.
    WTACH Chairman, Chris Flynn, said the Global Leadership Summit programme has been designed to attract representatives from governments, tourism boards, leading private sector decision makers, tour operators, corporate sponsors, community representatives, NGOs, media and others.
    “With the summit theme ‘Celebrating our Past – Securing our Future,’ our programme encourages attendees to contribute to new directions, priorities and attitudes towards culture and heritage in tourism,” said Flynn.
    While the summit formally concludes on the evening of 25 September, there will be optional training on the morning of the 26th for culture and heritage tourism practitioners. Spaces are limited to 25.

    An early bird registration for the event is only available until 7 July. Visit https://wtachgls.com.

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