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    Sleep Inn Previews Next-Generation Prototype Emphasizing Modern Design and Guest Wellbeing

    Sleep Inn Exterior Prototype.
    Sleep Inn, a leading new construction midscale brand from Choice Hotels International, Inc. known for its stylish, nature-inspired design and cost-effective operating model, is getting a new look following the debut of the brand’s next-generation prototype, expected to be completed and rolled out by the end of 2023.Announced during Choice Hotels’ 67th Annual Convention to provide developers with a sneak-peek of what they can expect from the modern, design-forward prototype, the new hotel option underscores the company’s’ commitment to continually innovating new products that resonate with travelers – and owners – of today and tomorrow.“No one is more intentional in their approach to design and development than Choice Hotels. We make sure that when we introduce a new concept, it not only stands the test of time but helps deliver noticeable results to our owners’ bottom lines and guest satisfaction scores, and the next generation of Sleep Inn is no exception,” said David Pepper, chief development officer, Choice Hotels. “The new look builds on the strong value proposition developers expect from Sleep Inn to maintain the segment’s lowest build and operating costs, while honing in on the brand’s inviting, wellness-focused elements that help modern travelers get a great night’s rest. It’s the perfect fit for growth-minded owners looking to seize opportunities in the popular midscale segment with a product proven to appeal to guests’ needs and senses.”
    The new construction prototype was developed to be cost-neutral for prospective developers, and in early testing increased guests’ likeliness to stay with the brand by an average of 25%. Underscoring its appeal to owners and guests alike, the new design package will continue to feature the Sleep Inn brand’s key hallmarks, such as each property’s signature exterior purple tower and soothing, nature-inspired design, while incorporating several additional signature amenities to enhance guests’ stay experience, including:
    Expanded wellness offerings, including water refill stations and fitness centers newly equipped with kettlebells, exercise bands, yoga mats and designated stretching areas. Guests checking in during the evening can now also take advantage of the brand’s new pilot offering at select properties, the NightFood Cookie, a free snack packed with protein, fiber and less sugar, so it won’t keep travelers up at night like a traditional dessert. In addition, Sleep Inn recently teamed with AllTrails, the world’s largest digital guidebook for outdoor activities, to curate a list of nearby hiking trails at participating hotels for guests.  Modernized guestrooms, featuring increased functional spaces, light dimming and smart thermostat capabilities, as well as soothing colors, regional artwork, linens and furnishings, designed to appeal to all five senses for a better night’s rest and relaxing stay.Stylishly designed open and airy lobbies, with tall windows to allow in more natural light and signature murals to keep within the nature theme.New-and-improved breakfast areas with the ability to be zoned into three distinct areas to suit guests’ needs, including a game room, TV room and flexible workspace.Designated outdoor spaces to enhance guests’ ability to connect with nature throughout every touchpoint.“Midscale travelers want convenient, stylish accommodations without sacrificing value and access to modern amenities while on the road, which is why Sleep Inn has remained a guest favorite since we debuted the Designed to Dream prototype more than 13 years ago,” said Cathy Hartman, vice president, brand strategy, Choice Hotels. “This evolved look and feel stays true to the brand’s founding philosophy by taking inspiration from nature to help guests relax, recharge and reconnect with what matters most. We also look forward to delighting guests with a suite of new wellness offerings to elevate and differentiate their travel experience.”
    There are currently more than 530 Sleep Inn hotels open or in the pipeline across the U.S. For more information and updates on Sleep Inn’s new prototype, visit choicehotelsdevelopment.com/brands/sleepinn. 
    Sleep Inn® Dream Better Here®Every Sleep Inn hotel offers a simply stylish stay that’s designed to help our guests Dream Better Here. You’ll find fresh, nature-inspired design elements that are modern but timeless, that create a relaxed and serene environment. A new-construction brand, every Sleep Inn hotel is built with a specific vision in mind—to be a sanctuary for travelers as well as an efficient property to build, operate, and maintain. Franchised by global lodging leader Choice Hotels, Sleep Inn properties boast strong product consistency and an established presence in the midscale hotel segment with more than 530 Sleep Inn properties open or in the pipeline worldwide. All Sleep Inn hotels include free Wi-Fi, complimentary hot and cold breakfast options, a swimming pool and/or fitness center. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com/sleep-inn.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Partners with Sandals Emerald Bay, Exuma for Live Radio Broadcasts

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    Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Partners with Sandals Emerald Bay, Exuma for Live Radio Broadcasts

    Approximately 3 million radio listeners, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter users across key markets in North America were reached when The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA) recently partnered with Sandals Emerald Bay in hosting the second live radio remote of 2023 at the resort in The Exumas. The live radio remotes aimed to reach a wider group of travellers and drive vacationers to The Bahamas.
    From April 2-April 3, 2023 radio personalities from 15 radio stations in the U.S. and two from Canada broadcasted live on their popular programs and social media sites about The Islands of The Bahamas and Sandals’ luxury amenities as the ultimate vacation spot.
    Hosting media partners provided a grand opportunity for BMOTIA to connect with listeners in various key markets while showcasing The Bahamas as a prime destination for visitors and inspiring travel.
    The Exumas, home to the breathtaking Sandals Emerald Bay Golf, Tennis & Spa Resort, is one of The Bahamas’ 16 unique island destinations.
    The live radio broadcasts aired in New York; Philadelphia; Charlotte; Jacksonville; Orlando; Miami; Washington, DC; Dallas; Atlanta and Toronto.ADVERTISEMENTFollowing the two-day live remotes, the stations ran a minimum of two weeks of on-air and digital promotions.
    Sandals also partnered with American Airlines and listeners were given a chance to win one of several luxury 4-day/3-night vacations for two at Sandals complete with American Airlines round trip airfare for two.  45 prize packages were offered to a number of radio stations.
    Jeremy Mutton, General Manager of the resort, said, “It is unbelievable the audience that this broadcast reaches. Mutton said the 17 radio stations “garnered total visitors of 3 million, which is huge”. “We are bringing The Bahamas to the listeners’ favorite radio show,” he added.

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    Home to the PGA Tour Mexico Open, Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta is an Extraordinary Resort

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    Home to the PGA Tour Mexico Open, Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta is an Extraordinary Resort

    Surrounded by the mountains, the river, and the Pacific Ocean, lies one of the most amazing and welcoming hotels in the world, Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta, home of the official PGA TOUR Mexico Open at Vidanta.
    Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta is a favorite destination amongst professional golfer players, celebrities, and families worldwide who are looking to enjoy their vacation in true Vidanta-style luxury. “I have an opportunity to travel 35 – 40 weeks a year, and to say this is special would be an understatement. So, many congratulations, Vidanta,” said John Norris, PGA TOUR Senior Vice President, Tournament Business Affairs.
    Offering a unique approach to luxury hospitality rooted in Mexican warmth and heart, this spectacular paradise resort offers countless entertainment options and one-of-a-kind experiences, unparalleled golf offerings, high-end amenities, three gorgeous spas, impressive pools, a shopping center, gourmet market, and more than 35 restaurants and bars for guests to choose from.
    “What I talk about many times is the hospitality and the treatment I have been given, not only here in Vidanta but also in Mexico…it has always been very special, and that’s the reason why I always keep coming back. They treat me like I’m at home, the atmosphere changes, and it’s so relaxed that it makes me want to come back,” said Jon Rahm, No. 1 in the Official World Golf Ranking and defending champion of the PGA TOUR Mexico Open at Vidanta.
    ADVERTISEMENTThe spacious and innovative resort is also home to the SkyDream Parks Gondola—the world’s first-ever gondola at a beach resort. In addition, Vidanta is redesigning the future of entertainment to bring to life a new universe filled with immersive adventures: VidantaWorld—theme and experiential parks for all generations. The first phase will debut later this year.
    “We are proud to show the world one of the most innovative resorts with three golf courses, including one PGA TOUR-certified course, and a host of fun dining, wellness, and nature experiences that we are sure golf enthusiasts and their families will enjoy,” said Iván Chávez, Executive Vice President of Grupo Vidanta. “As the leading developer of resorts and entertainment in Mexico and Latin America, we are excited to celebrate this momentous occasion and demonstrate to the world that we continue to reimagine the future of entertainment with unprecedented projects like EPIK Theme Park and VidantaWorld,” he concluded.
    EPIK Theme Park is the first phase of VidantaWorld, and will showcase jaw-dropping experiences such as Vista Wheel, an incredible Ferris wheel that transforms into a multi-media light show spectacle by night; The Crater, a striking volcanic fountain experience; The Lake Show, a stunning production of incredible scale with talented artists, breathtaking scenery, and dazzling lights, honoring the music of Carlos Chávez—one of Mexico’s most influential composers and the beloved late uncle of Grupo Vidanta founder Daniel Chávez Morán; and Jungle Valley, a magical landscape filled with inspired gourmet dining options.
    To learn more about this and other extraordinary Grupo Vidanta events and projects, including the upcoming opening of VidantaWorld, please visit GrupoVidanta.com

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    SEABOURN DEBUTS FIRST-EVER “GRAND AFRICA VOYAGE”, CIRCUMNAVIGATING THE CONTINENT IN 90 DAYS

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    Global Travel & Tourism Catapults into 2023 Says WTTC

    The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) today shows the Travel & Tourism sector is closing in on its 2019 peak, recovering by more than 95%.
    In 2023, the sector is forecast to reach $9.5TN, just 5% below 2019 pre-pandemic levels when travel was at its highest. 34 countries have already exceeded 2019 levels.
    According to the research conducted by WTTC in collaboration with Oxford Economics, the global tourism body also forecasts that the sector will recover to 95% of the 2019 job level.
    A look back on last yearLast year, despite the economic and geopolitical difficulties, the Travel & Tourism sector’s recovery continued at pace, growing 22% year-on-year to reach $7.7TN.
    This recovery represented 7.6% of the global economy in 2022, the highest sector contribution since 2019, although its global GDP is still 22.9% behind its 2019 peak.
    In 2021 the global sector grew 24.7% year-on-year, and last year it grew a further 22% to reach a GDP contribution of $7.7TN.
    The research shows that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and prolonged travel restrictions imposed by a number of countries such as China had a significant impact on the global recovery.
    But the recent decision by the Chinese government to reopen its borders from January will propel the sector and see it recover to pre-pandemic levels next year.
    From a pre-pandemic high of more than 334MN, the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged employment in the sector which saw losses of more than 70MN to bring the total number employed in 2020 to just 264MN.
    Following the recovery of 11MN jobs in 2021, the sector created 21.6MN new jobs in 2022 to reach more than 295MN globally – one in 11 jobs worldwide.
    Spending from overseas visitors grew by a record 82% to reach $1.1TN in 2022, showing that international travel is firmly back on track.
    Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The Travel & Tourism sector continues to recover at pace, demonstrating the resilience of the sector and the enduring desire to travel.
    “By the end of the year, the sector’s contribution will be within touching distance of the 2019 peak. We expect 2024 to exceed 2019.
    “The recovery will speed up this year as Chinese travellers re-enter the market and over the next 10 years, Travel & Tourism will continue to grow as a sector.”
    What does the next decade look like?The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to $15.5TN by 2033 representing 11.6% of the global economy and will employ 430MN people around the world, with almost 12% of the working population employed in the sector.
    The latest EIR also reveals that 34 of the 185 countries analysed in the EIR have now recovered to pre-pandemic levels in terms of GDP contribution.
    WTTC forecasts that by the end of 2023, nearly half of the 185 countries will have either fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels or be within 95% of full recovery.
    For more information, please visit wttc.org

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    Warner Music Group joins forces with FIVE Hotels and Resorts for burgeoning record label: FIVE Music

    In a move that is likely to send ripples through the music industry, trailblazing FIVE Hotels and Resorts has forged a progressive partnership with the iconic Warner Music Group for the future of the disruptive luxury brand’s record label, FIVE Music.
    This new joint venture will not only make use of Warner Music Groups’ worldwide network of chart busting talent, but will further bring FIVE’s visionary musically-driven events and taste making to the forefront of the international music scene.
    To kick off the celebrations, FIVE Music – along with Warner Music Central Europe, Dabruck Creative(DC) and FIVE Music’s exclusive music publishing partner Warner Chappell Music – will host an exciting Music Writing Camp from 28th April 2023 to 14 May 2023 at FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Dubai with ace artists such as Robin Schulz, Space Motion, Franky Wah and Alle Farben and renowned writers such as KIDDO, Bully Songs, Gez O’Connell (to name just a few) joining the collaborative in creating the ‘Sound of FIVE’ for a new generation of fans on a global stage.
    Now, partnering with Warner Music Group, FIVE continues to up the musical ante – even committing to a state-of-the-art FIVE Music Studio at Dubai’s famous, FIVE Palm Jumeirah – offering a place where producers, musicians and writers from across the globe can collaborate to make their musical dreams a reality.
    Fabian Drebes and Doreen Schimk, Co-Presidents Warner Music Central Europe elaborate,ADVERTISEMENT“We are excited to work with FIVE Music and to be able to offer our artists and writers an excellent and exciting site to perform, write and produce music. With FIVE Music, Dabruck Creative (DC) and Warner Chappell Music, we are sure to have forged an alliance with a true impact on the international music scene.”
    Aloki Batra, CEO, FIVE Hospitality comments on the new joint venture,
    “FIVE’s ethos revolves around first-in-class entertainment driven destinations with our unique ‘Vibe at FIVE’ that attracts a global diaspora of music lovers.  It made perfect sense for us to align with global musical giant, Warner Music Group when expanding our signature label, FIVE Music.
    Kabir Mulchandani, Chairman and Founder, FIVE, summarizes,
    “From beachside to rooftop, there’s no doubt that music runs through FIVE’s DNA and therefore we can’t wait to continue growing this division of our evolving portfolio to flourish alongside such a longstanding and respected musical hit maker.”
    Website: www.fivehotelsandresorts.com

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    Technology to represent central focus at 30th edition of Arabian Travel Market in Dubai

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    Technology to represent central focus at 30th edition of Arabian Travel Market in Dubai

    Representatives from more than 80 of the world’s leading travel technology companies are preparing to exhibit at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2023, which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from Monday 1 to Thursday 4 May.
    Over 2,000m2 of exhibition space will be dedicated to industry technology during the 30th edition of ATM, representing a 54.7% increase in sector participation compared to last year’s show. ATM 2023’s Travel Tech space will also be supplemented by a brand-new Sustainability Hub, which will shine a spotlight on the latest environmentally responsible travel trends and innovations.
    The ATM Travel Tech Stage sponsored by Sabre, will host a selection of in-depth panel discussions that will explore how modern innovations such as artificial intelligence, big data and Web3 are enabling seamless operations, professional development, payments, accessibility, sustainable travel and enhanced customer experiences.
    Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “My colleagues and I are delighted to see such strong representation from travel technology professionals at this year’s show. Encouraging innovation is especially pertinent to ATM 2023 as it is a crucial component of our theme, ‘Working Towards Net Zero’. It is essential for our industry to support and invest in the most promising technologies today in order to build a better and more sustainable travel sector for future generations.”
    Sponsored by Sabre, the ATM Travel Tech Stage will host a series of innovation-centric discussions and events throughout the show. The first session, ‘Technology: The Enabler of Sustainable Travel’, will see industry experts discuss how online tools are making it easier for consumers to mitigate their environmental impact when purchasing and planning trips. Moderated by Shashank Nigam, Founder and CEO of SimpliFlying, the panel will feature insights from Tom Kershaw, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Travelport; Lucas Bobes, Group Environmental Officer and Head of ESG Reporting at Amadeus; and Carlo Olejniczak, Vice President and Managing Director of EMEA at Booking.com.ADVERTISEMENTThe ATM Travel Tech Stage will also provide the backdrop for a selection of other panels,  including ‘The Main Trends Impacting Travel in 2023 and Beyond’. In partnership with Sabre, this session will explore the ways in which our industry has harnessed innovation in the wake of the global pandemic, as well as how technology is likely to drive further advancements over the coming years. Moderated by Abdul-Razzaq Iyer, Vice President – Middle East at Sabre, speakers will include Andy Finkelstein, SVP – Global Agency Sales & Delivery at Sabre; Jason Hooper, Head of Digital Solutions at Dnata; and Dean Wicks, Chief Flights Officer at Wego.
    ATM 2023 will feature a Sustainability Hub for the first time in the show’s history. This space will offer a venue for sessions dedicated to the latest sustainable travel trends and innovations while providing the setting for the ATM 2023 Start-up Competition – an event hosted by conference partner Plug and Play, which will see entrepreneurs go head-to-head in a ‘Sustainable Tech Pitch Battle’.
    ATM 2023’s technology segment will host a diverse array of other industry-leading exhibitors in addition to those mentioned above, including Itrip, Traveazy DMCC, TBO.com, WebBeds FZ LLC and Expedia Inc, to name but a few. In total, the ATM Travel Tech Stage will feature more than 20 innovation-focused sessions and events during the course of the four-day event.
    The 30th edition of ATM will explore the future of sustainable travel in line with its theme, ‘Working Towards Net Zero’. Having officially initiated its journey to net zero, the conference programme will explore how innovative sustainable travel trends are likely to evolve, allowing delegates to identify growth strategies within key vertical sectors, while providing a platform for regional experts to explore a sustainable future ahead of COP28, which will take place in November 2023 at Expo City Dubai.
    The conference will also feature a sustainability category at its annual exhibitor awards for the first time. Exhibiting organisations will be recognised based on the extent to which they have considered the environmental impact of their stands, as well as their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint.
    ATM 2023 is held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre and its strategic partners include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as the Destination Partner, Emirates as the Official Airline Partner, IHG Hotels & Resorts as the Official Hotel Partner and Al Rais Travel as the Official DMC Partner.

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    Central German airports witness surge in demand for tourist flights during Q1 2023

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    Central German airports witness surge in demand for tourist flights during Q1 2023

    The Central German airports continued to register increasing demand during the first three months of this year, particularly for tourist flights.Far more passengers were recorded at Dres-den and Leipzig/Halle Airports than in the previous year. The demand for flights to Spain, Egypt and Turkey was particularly high.
    The recovery in passenger numbers from the consequences of the pandemic continued at the Central German airports during the first quarter of this year. Overall, 415,793 passengers passed through Leipzig/Halle and Dresden Airports – 96.5 percent more than in the comparative period in 2022. The number of aircraft movements rose by 4.8 percent to a total figure of 22,695 take-offs and landings.
    The number of passengers using Dresden Airport rose to a figure of 146,228 between January and March. This represents an increase of about 100 percent compared to the same period in the previous year. The number of aircraft movements increased by about 18 percent to a figure of 3,898 during the first three months of the year.
    Passenger numbers at Leipzig/Halle Airport increased by more than 95 percent to a figure of 269,565 during the first quarter. The number of aircraft movements grew by 2.4 percent to a figure of 18,797 take-offs and landings from January until March compared to the previous year.
    Viewed in terms of the situation prior to the pandemic, the Central German airports had reached roughly 57 percent of the passenger numbers recorded in 2019 by March 2023. This development also reflects the ongoing restricted number of flights available and the German national situation, which is below the European average.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Blue Islands selected to fly European tourists to Jersey and Guernsey this summer

    European tour operators have once again selected Blue Islands to fly their clients from Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland for seven-night holidays in Jersey and Guernsey this summer.
    Rob Veron, CEO Blue Islands said, “We are proud to have been once again chosen as the trusted airline to deliver charter operations for our tour operator partners; we look forward to playing our part in welcoming guests to enjoy our beautiful islands of Jersey and Guernsey this summer.”
    Blue Islands’ 2023 inbound European summer charter programme commenced with the first visitors arriving in Jersey from Stuttgart; this activity will see guests depart from airports across Germany every Saturday throughout the summer for 28 weeks on behalf of Globalis.
    Flights from Groningen and Rotterdam on behalf of Sunair depart from 30 April for 20 weeks, while there will be 15 weeks of flights from Zurich starting 13 May. The full programme could mean up to 39,000 visitor nights and a spend of up to £4.2m in the Channel Islands visitor economy.
    Rob added, “From attractions and transport, to retail and hospitality; with seven-night stays representing a potential of up to 39,000 visitor nights, these guests will enjoy a rich holiday experience, as such spend will reach many elements of the visitor ecosystem, supporting the visitor economies of Jersey and Guernsey.”ADVERTISEMENTJersey’s Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Deputy Kirsten Morel, said: “This is a real show of confidence in Blue Islands as a carrier, and in Jersey as a European visitor destination, and the industry will be looking forward to welcoming visitors from Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland – and far beyond – both this summer and in the future.
    “Whether visitors are staying here for the duration of their trip, or using Jersey as a springboard to explore the wider Channel Islands, these charter routes enhance Jersey’s emerging status as a regional connectivity hub. I look forward to working with industry partners to sustainably build on this position in future.”

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