More stories

  • in

    Virgin Atlantic to join SkyTeam alliance

    Virgin Atlantic is formally joining SkyTeam, the global airline alliance, at a signing ceremony in London yesterday.  The move means Virgin Atlantic becomes SkyTeam’s first and only UK member airline, enhancing the alliance’s transatlantic network and services to and from Heathrow and Manchester airports.Virgin Atlantic customers will now benefit from a consistent, seamless customer experience, across 1,000 global destinations in over 170 countries.  Customers can conveniently book every SkyTeam member flight on a single ticket, checking in with baggage just once through to their final destination.
    Flying Club members have more opportunities to earn Virgin Points and Tier Points across all member airlines, accelerating both their rewards and tier status.  Additionally, Flying Club members will be able to redeem hard-earned points on SkyTeam member airlines. Alongside joint venture partners Delta & Air France-KLM, these include Aerolíneas Argentinas, Aeromexico, Air Europa, China Airlines, China Eastern*, Czech Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, ITA* Airways, Kenya Airways, Korean Air, MEA, Saudia, TAROM, Vietnam Airlines and XiamenAir.
    The airline’s Flying Club members will receive host of benefits which will enhance their journeys across the SkyTeam network. Virgin Atlantic Silver Card holders are recognised as SkyTeam Elite Members, whilst the airline’s Gold Card members have become Elite Plus. SkyTeam Elite Plus, First and Business Class customers enjoy SkyPriority services including priority check in, baggage handling and boarding. Extra baggage allowance is offered to both Elite and Elite Plus members.
    SkyTeam Elite Plus members travelling on Virgin Atlantic, Delta* or Aeromexico will have access to Virgin Atlantic’s renowned Clubhouse at London Heathrow, whilst other SkyTeam Elite Plus members can take advantage of their airline-designated lounge at Terminal 3.  Elite Plus members will also enjoy a network of 750 worldwide airport lounges to choose from*.
    Virgin Atlantic’s entry into the alliance builds upon the success of its transatlantic joint venture with Delta and Air France-KLM, each already long-established SkyTeam members. Virgin Atlantic is co-located at London Heathrow’s Terminal 3, alongside Delta and existing SkyTeam members Aeromexico and China Eastern, providing customers with smooth airside transits and the most convenient connection times possible.ADVERTISEMENTShai Weiss, CEO Virgin Atlantic, commented,
    “SkyTeam shares a customer first ethos that mirrors our own and our entry into the alliance today marks an important milestone in achieving our vision to become the most-loved travel company.
    “We want to reward those who choose to fly with Virgin Atlantic and our Flying Club members deserve the very best loyalty proposition.  Our SkyTeam membership offers this through a global network of maximised reward opportunities, alongside enhanced services on the ground and in the skies.”
    Patrick Roux, SkyTeam CEO and Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to welcome Virgin Atlantic into SkyTeam, taking an already close relationship to new heights and elevating our customer offering with more routes to exciting destinations and access to aspirational airport lounges – not to mention the airline’s world-famous flair.
    “The U.K. is a key market for SkyTeam and with Virgin Atlantic on board, customers can look forward to more opportunities to earn and redeem miles as they fly, enjoying the iconic travel experience that makes our newest member a globally loved airline.”
    Codeshare agreements are already in place with Aeromexico and Middle East Airlines, in addition to existing codeshares with Air France-KLM and Delta, with options for more codeshares to follow later this year.  Interline agreements with all SkyTeam members are already in place, providing one touch point for all customers, creating a seamless journey on one ticket.
    Virgin Atlantic flies to 12 destinations throughout the USA in partnership with Delta and Air France-KLM including New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and San Francisco. Last year the airline launched services to two new US destinations, Austin and Tampa. Virgin Atlantic also operates an extensive Caribbean portfolio including Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, The Bahamas and from November, Turks and Caicos. Virgin Atlantic also operates services to China, India, Israel, Nigeria and South Africa. A new service to the Maldives will begin from October.

    Older
    Emirates and Philippine Airlines announce interline partnership

    Newer
    Qatar Airways announces Indian Superstar Deepika Padukone as Global Brand Ambassador More

  • in

    Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts Announces Partnership with Williams Racing

    Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts today announced its new partnership with Williams Racing, ahead of the 2023 FIA Formula One World Championship that kicks off this weekend in Bahrain.As part of Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts’ journey of accelerated growth, the brand has most recently opened Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort & Spa, aptly timed with the start of the Williams Racing partnership. Resting on the unexplored, pristine beaches of Bahrain’s West Coast, this newest address offers a picturesque setting for guests, just 10 minutes from the Bahrain International Circuit.
    Resonating with Jumeirah’s strategic growth trajectory, Williams Racing continues to push boundaries in the quest for performance excellence. With 26 properties in 10 countries, Jumeirah is dedicated to driving innovation, and delivering the most exhilarating experiences for its guests, partners, and Jumeirah One members.
    The relationship with Williams Racing will offer Jumeirah’s guests memorable moments and curated events at Grand Prix locations around the world. Culminating at the season finale Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, neighbouring Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort & Spa is perfectly placed to offer guests an unforgettable race weekend.

    Alexander Lee, Chief Commercial Officer, Jumeirah Group: “We’re thrilled to unveil our partnership with Williams Racing, one of the most iconic brands in the world of Formula One. With its rich history and reputation for excellence, Williams Racing’s values are perfectly aligned with Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. We’re proud to launch this partnership in Bahrain, where the new Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort & Spa is ideally located just 10 minutes from the circuit. Together with Williams Racing, we look forward to introducing our signature Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts experience to Formula One fans around the world. The sport of Formula One, which thrives on performance and continuously pushing limits, aligns with Jumeirah, and our ambitious vision of growth and expansion.”ADVERTISEMENTCommenting on the partnership, James Bower, Commercial Director at Williams Racing added: “We’re delighted to partner with Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. Jumeirah has an ambitious vision of growth and a dedication to excellence that resonates with our values and the journey we are on. Jumeirah’s strategic growth trajectory has led them to Williams Racing and we look forward to developing and elevating these very special experiences with their incredible hospitality expertise throughout this season and beyond.”
    For more information, visit Jumeirah.com/williamsf1.

    Older
    Four Seasons and Yuan Lih Construction Co., Ltd. To Unveil Brand-New Luxury Hotel in Taipei

    Newer
    Emirates and Philippine Airlines announce interline partnership More

  • in

    Medical and health tourism plays an important role at ITB Berlin 2023

    For the first time, national and international experts are represented in their own hall (26c) – Exhibitor numbers from Turkey are especially high – Medical tourism is becoming increasingly important in society
    It represents a promising growth market in the tourism industry: at ITB Berlin 2023 from 7 to 9 March the medical and health tourism sector will be represented in larger numbers than at any previous event. For the first time, numerous medical and health tourism experts from Germany and around the world will be sharing their knowledge in their own hall (26c) which is devoted entirely to this segment. As concerns exhibitors, Turkey is among the countries strongly represented with specialist clinics, health and spa hotels, associations and destinations. M2 Health Travel is the main organiser of this segment. The Dünyagöz Eye Clinic is also exhibiting again at ITB Berlin. In addition to the many Turkish players, numerous international exhibitors are represented in the pavilion again. They include FIT Reisen, the European Historic Thermal Towns Association (EHTTA), The European Spa Association (ESPA), the association of the Health Tourism Industry (HTI), Ensana Health Spa Hotels and Bangkok Hospital.
    Appeal for sustainable development of medical and health tourism
    “Particularly after the Covid pandemic, medical tourism has played an important role in restoring health and well-being in society“, said Rika Jean-Francois, commissioner for Corporate Social Responsibility at ITB Berlin and in charge of this segment. “This segment is growing every year and keeping abreast with the latest findings and technologies“, she observed. At the same time it was important not to forget the challenges of climate change, she added. Rika Jean-Francois: “We need to rethink before restarting and must cooperate at global level. As with all the other tourism segments, medical tourism must become more sustainable.“
    On Monday, 6 March 2023, Medical & Health Tourism at ITB Berlin will kick off with an ITB Clinic tour from 10 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. This is co-organised by ITB Berlin, Berlin Health Excellence, Visit Berlin and Diversity Tourism. The programme features an all-day tour for medical buyers and agencies, along with individual tours, presentations, lunch and transfers.ADVERTISEMENTOn Tuesday, 7 March 2023 at 10 a.m. on the Medical Stage in Hall 26c, Shaaz Mehmood, founder and CEO of Medijourn Solutions PVT Ltd., will speak about ’Promises and Hurdles in the Medical Value Travel Industry’. This will be followed by a presentation on ’Concierge Health Service – Diagnostic Telemedicine for the Tourism Industry’ by Dr. Clara Guerra, founder and chairman of the Board of Directors, Medikonsil-International. Afterwards, a presentation entitled ’Discover Albania’ will inform visitors about dental tourism. This will be followed by a panel discussion on ’Optimisation of SPA Hotel Operations’.
    Together with ITB Berlin’s partners HTI, EHTTA and ESPA, the official opening of the Medical pavilion will take place from 1.45 to 2 p.m. At 1 p.m., media members can find out more and exchange views at the Medical Media Networking Lunch. The event is sponsored by the Catalan Tourist Board. Rika Jean-Francois, commissioner for Corporate Social Responsibility at ITB Berlin and in charge of this segment, and Thomas Bömkes, medical tourism adviser to ITB Berlin, Diversity Tourism GmbH, will hold the opening speech. In the evening, FIT Reisen will hold a networking reception at the pavilion in cooperation with ESPA and Quality in Health Prevention.
    On Wednesday, 8 March 2023 on the pavilion stage, panel discussions as well as further presentations and interviews with experts will take place. Topics will include ’The Europe Question – how to attract Travelers from Europe’, and ’New Products in Health Tourism’, as well as robotics and sleep medicine. Barcelona is also promoting itself as a destination for medical tourism. Patrick Torrent, executive director of the Catalan Tourist Board, will hold a lecture entitled ’High value, high complexity’. In the evening, starting at 7 p.m., the ITB Medical & Health Night will take place at the Amaro Hotel Grand Central, featuring the presentation of the ITB Medical & Health Tourism Award 2023. The sponsors of the evening event are Great Spa Towns of Europe (GSTE), the European Historic Thermal Towns Association (EHTTA) and the European Spas Association (ESPA).
    On Thursday, 9 March 2023, the focus will also be on learning, with lectures being held by international speakers on the pavilion stage. Events will kick off at 10 a.m. with a presentation on ’Digital Marketing and Building Trust for Medical Travel for Treatment’, followed by two interviews with experts and a presentation at 11.30 a.m. entitled ’Great Spas of Europe’. At 1.30 p.m., the panel discussion topic will be ’Intra-Region Medical Tourism’. Afterwards, visitors can find out more about medical tourism in India from a lecture entitled ’Heal in India’.
    Medical, Wellness & Health track at the ITB Berlin Convention 2023
    Connecting health and sports tourism: that will be the task of the Medical Tourism session at this year’s ITB Berlin Convention on Thursday, 9 March 2023 on the Green Stage in Hall 3.1.
    At the Medical Wellness & Health track, starting at 3 p.m. a UNWTO Roundtable discussion on ’Connecting sports tourism to health’ will take place which will discuss ways to establish major synergies between sports and health. Taking part will be Patrick Torrent (executive director, Catalan Tourist Board), Simone Zagrodnik (executive director, European Historic Thermal Towns Association EHTTA), Kristjan Stanièiæ, M.Sc., director, Croatian National Tourist Board, Ceylan ªensoy, product marketing director, Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), and Josip Paviæ, state minister of sports of Croatia. Ion Vilcu, director, Affiliate Members Department at UNWTO, will hold the opening speech.
    Afterwards, marking International Women’s Day, the day’s last event at the convention is entitled ’Women and Medical Value Tourism’. Together with the female panel members, session moderator Ivana Kolar, CEO and founder of Tourizam365, will also talk about gender medicine.
    Full details of the Medical Tourism programme are available for downloading as a PDF, or can be obtained as a programme leaflet at the info counter of the Medical Pavilion. Additional information on the Medical & Health Tourism segment at ITB Berlin 2023 can be found at itb.com/medicaltourism.

    Older
    Take a walk on the wild side: Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi marks World Wildlife Day More

  • in

    Take a walk on the wild side: Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi marks World Wildlife Day

    This World Wildlife Day Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi reaffirms its commitment to protecting its natural inhabitants, while celebrating the contribution the animals and plants make to our lives and the health of the planet on March 3.  Expect to see the endangered hawksbill turtles nesting seasonally on the shores of the island’s beaches, while bottlenose dolphins stun guests with their charismatic nature, while the native Arabian gazelles roam freely across the island.Abu Dhabi’s leading beach destination, Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi offers guests natural surroundings, pristine white sandy beaches, luxurious resorts, a vibrant cultural and entertainment scene and animals roaming the island in their natural habitat.
    Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi last year won the World Travel Awards title for Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination 2022
    The first resort in the Middle East recognised and awarded The Oceanic Standard (TOS) for its revolutionary reduction in single-use plastic and sustainable initiatives, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort is set amid natural beauty and demonstrates its commitment to conservation this World Wildlife Day.
    Upon check-in, guests will be offered tote bags and reusable water bottles and can take advantage of water stations positioned across the resort to refill. Miles of untouched shorelines are lined with recycling bins to encourage guests to throw and segregate their trash. Further, the resort ensures that its dunes are kept clean with non-motorised sports and takes strides to prevent any activity taking place on them, ensuring that animals are free to roam.
    As the sun rises, marine experts patrol the shores across Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi to check on the hawksbill turtles, with patrols increasing during the nesting season to ensure nests are safe from harm followed by dim lighting during the evenings to encourage the hatchlings to begin their journey towards the shores.ADVERTISEMENTIn the skies, guests can spot a kaleidoscope of colours with over 300 species of birds across Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi in vibrant hues. An Arabian gazelle roaming around Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is par for the course, along with biodegradable golf balls that feed the local marine life. Or keep an eye out for the friendly dugongs (also known as sea cows), who are known to pay guests a visit. Not hard to miss, these creatures are three metres long and weigh around 400 kilos.
    Neighbouring Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas runs a special Saadiyat Turtle Beach Patrol organised by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi – EAD, and all lifeguards and security teams are educated about the importance of reporting any turtle nests across the beach. This in-house team can report, segregate and alert The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi and EAD if turtle nests are found.
    The resort contributes to flora and fauna research continuously in line with its sustainability system, while conducting workshops on marine conservation and wildlife in partnership with the Emirates Natural History Group, with topics that include ‘bird awareness’ and ‘nature journalling workshop’ open to guests and the community to participate.

    Older
    VIKING ANNOUNCES RECORD-BREAKING SALES IN JANUARY

    Newer
    Medical and health tourism plays an important role at ITB Berlin 2023 More

  • in

    “It’s Lights Out and Away We Go”

    Marriott Bonvoy Moments offers incredible experiences with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team including Drivers Lewis Hamilton, George Russell and Mick Schumacher, Team Principal & CEO Toto Wolff and Team engineers
    Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands and award-winning travel program, and The Ritz-Carlton are once again inviting members to experience the thrill of motorsport through its long-standing relationship with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team.Yesterday, Marriott Bonvoy Moments launched 11 VIP experiences with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team in Miami.Additional Moments will be released throughout the entire 2023 season, allowing members to fully immerse themselves in the world of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Members can use points earned from travel and everyday activities to bid on exclusive packages including: 
    A lap around a race circuit in a high-performance Mercedes-AMG car driven by a Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team Driver.A sleepover on the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team yacht during the Monaco Grand Prix.The Ritz-Carlton Ultimate Weekend packages in Miami, Montreal and Mexico City, where VIP race access will be complemented with memorable touches from the brand, including hotel stays, spa treatments and immersive dining experiences.Behind-the-scenes access to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team over the race weekend.Access to the iconic Ritz-Carlton Silver Arrows Lounge in Miami, Montreal, Singapore, Las Vegas, Mexico City and Abu Dhabi, where Marriott Bonvoy Moments winners and other VIPs will have the chance to enjoy the brand’s world-renowned hospitality.An insider tour of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team factory in Brackley, UK where winners can see the cutting-edge facilities where more than 950 Mercedes team members work tirelessly to prepare for all the on-track action from car design and development to state-of-the-art simulation and bespoke engineering services.Up close and personal experiences with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team including Drivers Lewis Hamilton, George Russell and Mick Schumacher, Team Principal & CEO Toto Wolff and Team engineers.“From Jeddah to Silverstone to the debut race in Las Vegas, we are thrilled to offer Marriott Bonvoy members the chance to experience a race weekend alongside the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team,” said Jackie McAllister, Vice President, Loyalty Brand & Moments Marketing at Marriott International. “Marriott Bonvoy Moments experiences will go live throughout the season, offering new ways for travelers to fuel their passion for the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and motorsport.”
    “Our partnership with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team brings together two likeminded brands that share a commitment to excellence and a desire to create unforgettable experiences,” said Donna McNamara, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Ritz-Carlton. “Through Marriott Bonvoy Moments we are excited to be able to offer our guests unmatched access and the opportunity to experience the truly thrilling world of Formula One up close.”   
    Marriott Bonvoy Moments packages with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team are now live for the season at moments.marriottbonvoy.com. Additional Moments packages will be added throughout the season.

    Older
    HOLLAND AMERICA GROUP’S NATALYA LEAHY APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF SEABOURN

    Newer
    Wyndham Rewards Unveils Limited-Edition Minibar Stocked with Over a Month of Free Stays and Snacks More

  • in

    Hilton and Fresh On Table Partner to Double Local Produce Procurement for Hilton Properties in UAE

    Hilton announced its renewed partnership with UAE-based agri-tech platform, Fresh On Table, at Gulfood 2023, with the aim of doubling the amount of local produce procured for the brand’s properties in the country.
    The ongoing deal between Hilton and Fresh On Table follows the success of last year’s collaboration that saw the two entities exceed their local food sourcing goals. The extended partnership promises a larger commitment in 2023, with increased targets and an intentional sourcing strategy, that reaffirms their dedication to championing local farms and produce.
    Hilton previously sourced 440 tonnes of local produce annually for its UAE properties, and, through this new partnership, the volume is expected to increase to over 900 tonnes. As part of the partnership, 45 additional line items – such as herbs and leafy vegetables – have been added, with an expected annual volume of 50 tonnes.
    Emma Banks, vice president, F&B Strategy & Development, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Hilton – and Gulfood’s ‘Sustainable Professional of the Year’ said, “Expanding our partnership with Fresh On Table is in line with Hilton’s ongoing Travel with Purpose commitment to source products locally. With the new agreement with Fresh on Table, our produce volume is expected to increase from 440 tonnes to over 900 tonnes annually – a move we hope will champion local farming and empower other entities in the hospitality sector to follow suit.”
    Atul Chopra, founder, Fresh On Table Corporation, said: “Fresh On Table’s mission continues to drive awareness around the circular economy, supporting key industry players and bringing production and consumption as close together as possible. We are thrilled to be strengthening our partnership with Hilton under a new agreement for 2023 and believe our combined efforts of local sourcing will have an unprecedented impact on the country’s food supply network and the hospitality industry.”ADVERTISEMENTAs a business serving people, Hilton is committed to driving positive change across its value chain. Through Hilton’s Travel with Purpose commitment of Responsible Sourcing, artisans, farmers, and small businesses are empowered to procure food & beverage ingredients responsibly, while also enhancing the overall guest experience.

    Older
    Hotel Nikko Bali Joining the 7th Annual Bali’s Biggest Clean-Up

    Newer
    HOLLAND AMERICA GROUP’S NATALYA LEAHY APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF SEABOURN More

  • in

    Mekong Tourism Forum 2023 Confirmed for 25-27 April in Cambodia

    H.E. Mr Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism for Cambodia
    The 2023 Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF 2023), hosted by the Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia and co-organised by the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office, will take place 25-27 April in Sihanoukville city, the capital of Preah Sihanouk province.
    The Forum will address the theme “Rethinking for Resilience and Digitalisation.”
    Tourism Ministers, tourism leaders, NTOs, NGOs and private sector representatives, will discuss ways to rethink post-Covid tourism in China, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam as a collective and dynamic sub-region
    The conference programme has been designed to address job creation, gender equality, food safety and hygiene, digital transformation and a more geographically dispersed tourism approach, so that the benefits of the travel industry spread beyond over-touristed hotspots.
    At the Forum, tourism experts and political leaders will address five key ideas on 26 April: rethinking tourism to put people and planet first; developing local food production networks with a focus on safety and hygiene, while reducing food waste; using new digital technology to boost tourism startups and small- and medium-sized businesses; improving training so that tourism workers have the skills to adapt; and advancing equality of opportunity and fair treatment for women in the private and public sectors of tourism.ADVERTISEMENT“The post-Covid- 19 tourism landscape now provides clear opportunities for us to take stock and rethink tourism for the better,” said H.E. Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism for Cambodia.
    “With my tourism colleagues from around the Greater Mekong Subregion we will work hard to ensure that tourism re-establishes itself as an engine to create sustainable prosperity for our citizens. The MTF 2023 agenda has a clear focus and will address those issues,” he said.
    The challenges of improving local food networks, to enhance safety and hygiene, will be addressed by Mr Luu Meng, a legend in the Cambodian culinary scene. The panel on smart tourism and digitalisation will be moderated by Mr Ben-Jie Lim, Group Head of Delivery, SuperApp, AirAsia. The expert panel debate on advancing human capital will be led by Mr Peter Semone, the Chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association, who will also keynote the Forum. Ms Veronica Mendizabal Jaffre of the Asian Development Bank will lead the panel session on women’s empowerment in tourism in the region.

    As Preah Sihanouk province is the host destination, on 27 April delegates will have the opportunity to join many of the local excursions and post-tours such as Sihanoukville city tour, Koh Rong Island, diving, mangrove tour, kayaking, and community-based ecotourism exploration. Each trip will showcase sustainable tourism practices in the destination.
    The MTF 2023 will also host a Sustainable Tourism Exhibit comprising over 20 exhibitors, showcasing responsible and sustainable tourism, community-based tourism and local community products. The exhibit will run on 25 and 26 April.
    An estimated 150 international delegates are expected to attend the MTF 2023, which is free to join for leaders of the travel industry.
    Registration is available through the new Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office website at www.mekongtourism.org. Registration will close on 18 April, or when places are fully booked, whichever comes first.

    Older
    The Peninsula Hotels to Offer Guests a Taste of “All Things Turkish” with New Culinary Creations

    Newer
    Hotel Nikko Bali Joining the 7th Annual Bali’s Biggest Clean-Up More

  • in

    Liz Ortiguera Resigns as CEO of Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)

    The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) earlier this week announced the resignation of Liz Ortiguera as its Chief Executive Officer.Upon her notification, PATA Vice Chair Benjamin Liao said, “Liz served PATA with distinction as the first Asian female CEO in the organization’s 72-year history. On behalf of PATA, I would like to thank her for her leadership of the Association during a difficult period for the industry.”
    “We recognize her many accomplishments as PATA CEO including new agreements with the Singapore Tourism Board, the Saudi Tourism Authority and Trip.com as well as the expanded partnerships with Visa, MasterCard, and Airbnb. New projects included PATA’s first Annual Summit in the Middle East, the PATA-Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) APAC Travel Summit, PATA-World Bank Government Recovery Insights Forum Series, the Tourism Destination Resilience Program launch and the ongoing Weekly Asia-Pacific Destination Recovery Dashboard.”
    Commenting on her tenure at PATA, Ms. Ortiguera said, “It was a true honor to have served as PATA’s CEO. I am confident that PATA, with its diverse member base of industry leaders, can continue to support and lead our industry’s recovery and growth. PATA is even more critical as a business community today to support new partnerships, innovation, and the adoption of sustainable business practices.”
    “I am handing back the reins with thanks to PATA Members for the opportunity to lead at this critical time of global industry recovery. I had the opportunity to work with some deeply committed, hard-working and talented individuals within the PATA team as well as our valued members and partners. They embody the heart and the spirit of what PATA could be in everything they do,” Ms. Ortiguera added.In response to Ms. Ortiguera’s departure, PATA Chair Peter Semone stated that, “the Executive Board has established five Expert Task Forces or ETFs to review critical elements of PATA’s development strategy, including Brand and Voice, Events, Membership Engagement, Organizational Design and Digital Readiness. The recommendations of these ETFs will help define PATA’s new direction strategically and operationally.”

    Older
    Hilton and Minus18 Partner to Expand Nationwide Access for LGBTQIA+ Youth in Australia

    Newer
    IHG Hotels & Resorts Expands UK & Ireland Presence with Nine New Hotels Across Brands More