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    2023 European Capitals of Smart Tourism at ITB Berlin

    2023 European Capitals of Smart Tourism Pafos (Cyprus) and Seville (Spain) are participating in ITB Berlin 2023. Representatives from the two cities will be at the European Capital of Smart Tourism stand (Hall 20, stand 303).The two cities are setting the standard in a form of tourism that is accessible, digital, sustainable and creative. For tourists, this means better experiences, for locals, it means they can make the most out of their city, as well as better jobs, and, for the environment, it means a greener future.
    Some of the leading practices from the two cities include:
    Pafos:
    Visitors can take a deep dive into the city’s history thanks to the Pafos UNESCO Archaeological park app and smart signs. These tools provide a personalised and enhanced digital guide to the destination. The app is available in several languages, includes interactive content, videos and photo galleries for each location, as well as 360 tours.The Pafos Smart Parking System uses state-of-the-art technology to provide real-time information on available parking spaces, making it easy for citizens and visitors to find a spot quickly and easily. This means fuel and time are no longer wasted, whilst looking for a space.Seville:
    The city is seeking to furnish harmony between residents and visitors. One way of doing this is to manage the flow of people in congested areas. To do this, the city’s smart tourism office has set up a network of sensors, including AI cameras, Wi-Fi tracking and triangulation of operator signals. The data collected from these sensors is fed into a tool that will enable the correct redistribution of tourist flows towards areas of the city where congestion is lower, taking into consideration other tourist attractions that the city wishes to promote.Celebrations and festivals are being made fully accessible thanks to the SEVILLE ACCESSIBLE app. This tool entails integrated maps and routes, as well as noiseless schedules. It also points towards the most accessible attractions, suitable for people of all abilities.The European Capital of Smart Tourism is an EU initiative that aims to promote smart tourism in the EU by rewarding cities for their pioneering smart tourism approaches in accessibility, digitalisation, sustainability, and cultural heritage and creativity. Built on the successful experience of a preparatory action proposed by the European Parliament, the initiative seeks to foster innovative, sustainable, and inclusive tourism development, as well as spread and facilitate the exchange of best practices.ADVERTISEMENTFor the latest updates on the European Capital of Smart Tourism, follow us on our website, Facebook, or Twitter, and subscribe to our Podcast series.

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    SeaWorld Conservation Fund Celebrates 20 Years of Marine Animal Conservation

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    ITB 2023: the EU’s green tourism pioneer paves the way in sustainability More

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    SeaWorld Conservation Fund Celebrates 20 Years of Marine Animal Conservation

    Celebrating 20 years of marine animal conservation grants, the SeaWorld Conservation Fund announced 22 new grants made in 2022 to support third party research, rescue, and conservation programs to protect marine animals and their habitats.arious marine animal species directly benefiting from these 2022 grants include coral reefs, dolphins, manatees, penguins, seals, seabirds, sea turtles and whales. This year the Fund is celebrating its 20th anniversary, created as a nonprofit foundation in 2003. To date the SeaWorld Conservation Fund has provided more than $20 million in grants to 1,391 organizations across all seven continents.
    Dr. Chris Dold, President of the SeaWorld Conservation Fund and Chief Zoological Officer of SeaWorld said, “We are committed to advancing animal conservation and preserving wildlife species and their natural habitats across the globe. Protecting wildlife is no small mission and requires the teamwork and support of countless organizations focused on animal rescue and rehabilitation, conservation education, habitat protection and species research. We are proud to be able to provide financial support that helps these organizations continue the work imperative to our common goal of wildlife conservation.”
    Supporting Fellow Rescue and Rehabilitation Organizations
    SeaWorld is one of the largest marine animal rescue organizations in the world. It has come to the aid of more than 40,000 sick, injured, orphaned, and stranded marine animals, always with the goal of rehabilitating and returning healthy animals back to their native environment. The SeaWorld Conservation Fund honors this mission by supporting other organizations that share the same goal. 
    In 2022, a grant was made to the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network (TMMSN) to create increased capacity for marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation in the state of Texas. Of their grant, Heidi Whitehead, Executive Director at Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network said, “Generous donations from organizations such as the SeaWorld Conservation Fund allow us to provide a coordinated response to marine mammal strandings along the Texas coastline and continue our important mission of marine mammal conservation. We are very grateful for their support and are honored to be their partner in the mission to protect marine animals.”ADVERTISEMENTOther 2022 grant recipient organizations with a focus in species rescue and rehabilitation include:
    Coral Restoration Foundation for international coral reef restoration efforts which are carried out by a collaborative team of staff, interns and countless volunteers.Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) for the conservation of southern African seabirds and their marine environment.Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Association (ARCAS) for protecting the most important sea turtle nesting beaches and mangrove wetlands of the Pacific coast of Guatemala.Advancing Scientific Research that Leads to the Preservation of Species and their Habitats
    The SeaWorld Conservation Fund supports organizations whose species research leads to healthier and more biodiverse populations in the future. One 2022 grant recipient was the Norwegian Orca Survey for the ‘Keeping up with Norwegian Orcas’ program which continues a long running photo identification and DNA study of killer whales throughout Norway.
    “Killer Whales are a vital species to our environment and through the generous funds from SeaWorld, we have been able to improve the knowledge of Norwegian killer whales through researching, monitoring and observing the diversity of individuals’ dietary habits on a long-term basis,” said Dr. Eve Jourdain, Director at Norwegian Orca Survey. “Our research findings have led to the writing of multiple scientific publications which will help revise the protection status and identify human threats to this population. It is critical that we continue this long-term research project so we can achieve to better understand and protect this unique population of killer whales.”
    Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) received its third grant from the SeaWorld Conservation Fund in 2022. Their work focuses on ending lethal fishing gear entanglements by advancing buoyless fishing. Dr. Michael Moore, Senior Scientist at WHOI, said, “Rope entanglements are a serious threat to the survival of many endangered whales and sea turtles. With the help from the SeaWorld Conservation Fund, we have been able to test On Demand gear systems which significantly reduce entanglements and create a safter environment for marine animals.”
    Additional 2022 grant recipient organizations advancing science to protect marine animals include:
    Alaska Sealife Center for research on non–releasable Alaskan ice seals to better understand their behavior patterns.AMPA-Friends of Manatee Association for monitoring an Amazon River dolphin population to watch their behavioral and reproductive patterns.Rising Tide Conservation for advancing sustainability in the marine aquarium industry by funding and promoting marine fish research.The Society for Marine Mammalogy for fostering international partnerships and collaborations to improve the quality of research on marine mammals within the science community.Recipient organizations focused on marine habitat preservation include Restore America’s Estuaries for coastal restoration within the Great Marsh, the largest salt marsh in New England and Tampa Bay Watch for community action and partnership to reduce marine debris in Tampa Bay.
    Emergency Grants to Help Wildlife Organizations Impacted by Hurricane Ian
    In response to the damage caused by Hurricane Ian, the SeaWorld Conservation Fund made emergency grants to 10 Florida zoological and wildlife rescue organizations impacted by the storm. Most organizations that applied for a SeaWorld emergency grant suffered from damaged fences, major flooding, habitat destruction, wind damage and other storm-related issues. More information about the zoological and wildlife rescue and rehabilitation organizations that received emergency grant funding can be found here.https://seaworldentertainment.com/media/press-releases/seaworld-conservation-fund-makes-10-emergency-grants/

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    Serengeti Flyer, the World’s Tallest and Fastest Ride of its Kind, Officially Opens at Busch Gardens

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    Serengeti Flyer, the World’s Tallest and Fastest Ride of its Kind, Officially Opens at Busch Gardens

    Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s newest ride, Serengeti Flyer, is now open for all guests. The park’s latest attraction, which opened today, is the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, providing riders with breathtaking views of the park’s expansive 65-acre Serengeti Plain
    Serengeti Flyer features twin dueling arms that soar progressively higher, reaching speeds of 68 mph, a maximum height of 135 feet at the ride’s peak and the pulse-pounding thrill of multiple negative-G moments. The park’s new thrill features the capability to adjust the ride’s intensity level, giving guests the opportunity for a milder or wilder experience. Serengeti Flyer allows 40 guests to experience the ride at once, seated back-to-back in rows of 10 across two gondolas
    “Thrills are in full swing at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with yet another exciting record-setting ride for our guests to enjoy,” said Neal Thurman, Park President of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “As the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, Serengeti Flyer joins a world-class portfolio of attractions, offering breathtaking views of the park and a one-of-a-kind experience for all our guests.”
    Annual Passes and Fun Cards Offer the Best Way to PlayBusch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Annual Pass is the best way to enjoy an entire year of thrilling attractions and exciting seasonal events. Categorized in easy-to-use tiers, all options provide guests with unlimited year-round admission and unbeatable benefits like free parking, in-park discounts and monthly rewards starting as low as $15.
    Additionally, those interested in paying for a day and playing all year can take advantage of the current buy-one-get-one Fun Card offer. For a limited time, guests purchasing a Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Fun Card will receive an Adventure Island Fun Card for FREE.ADVERTISEMENTGuests can visit BuschGardensTampa.com to purchase tickets and learn more about the Annual Pass program’s benefits and monthly rewards, the current special offer for the 2023 Fun Card and stay in the know about new events, special deals and future announcements by following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube and Twitter.

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    UNIQUE VACATIONS APPOINTS TONY CORTIZAS AS CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER

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    UNIQUE VACATIONS APPOINTS TONY CORTIZAS AS CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER

    Unique Vacations Inc. (UVI), an affiliate of the worldwide representative of Sandals® Resorts and Beaches® Resorts, today announced the appointment of Tony Cortizas as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), effective immediately.
    Cortizas brings more than three decades of creative storytelling and strategic brand building expertise for global hospitality names.  He will report to CEO Jeff Clarke,  strengthening his leadership role within the organization where he is charged with directing research, creative, and brand marketing for the hospitality brands under the UVI umbrella, particularly all-inclusive trailblazer Sandals Resorts and sister brand, family-friendly Beaches Resorts.
    “Tony’s body of award-winning work demonstrates his proven ability to engage audiences over time and across channels with rich storytelling and opportunities that foster lifelong relationships between brands and customers,” said Clarke.  “We are thrilled to have his expertise as we take on the transformative work of exceeding the expectations of new generations of audiences to Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts.”
    Prior to his promotion to CMO, Tony Cortizas was SVP of Brand Development, a role he held since his return to Unique Vacations in 2021.  Before that, Tony spent fourteen years with Meliá Hotels International, most recently as V.P. of Global Brand Strategy where he led the strategic vision of the company’s entire brand portfolio, driving performance through optimization of the customer journey.
    For more than a dozen years starting in 1995, Tony was part of the Unique Vacations team, directing global advertising and working closely with agency partners and directly with Sandals Resorts International Founding Chairman Gordon “Butch” Stewart on consumer-facing campaigns, web design, digital marketing and industry co-operative programs.  These efforts, among many others, helped define and raise the profile of Sandals Resorts as the leading luxury all-inclusive vacation for adult couples and Beaches Resorts as the family market leader.ADVERTISEMENTSince his return, Tony has been working to enhance the customer journey, from partners and vendors to travel advisors and ultimately guests as they engage with and experience the Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts brands.
    “We are at an incredible moment in the story of all-inclusive hotels when the market is seeking clarity and resonance.  I am thrilled to bring my point of view and passion to brands that I believe deeply in and create the winning differentiation they deserve,” said Cortizas.

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    Explore Nash County Launches “I’m Still Looking” Campaign to Drive Tourism

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    Explore Nash County Launches “I’m Still Looking” Campaign to Drive Tourism

    This spring, Nash County North Carolina is taking a new approach to travel marketing targeted towards 20-30+ year olds and that generation’s obsession with reality dating shows. While this approach may seem out of left field, it is based in research and creativity.The campaign’s focus is to connect with singles within a 100-mile radius to drive overnight stays to the county as a destination for leisure travel while highlighting various locations throughout the county that make ideal dating locations.
    Digging into information on this audience, research showed that more single women than single men were coming to the area,” said Barbara Green, Nash County Tourism Director. “Even with the odds in their favor, a lot of guys were still having trouble finding ‘the one.’ From these facts, a campaign was born to help encourage the visitation of Millennials and Generation X to the county for overnight stays.”
    Further insight identified that Nash County is home to the largest craft beer incubator in the state. That fact alone pulls in a younger demographic to try new beers each week.
    The Nash County travel campaign is called “I’m Still Looking.” It follows a guy named Jim Green, who has been unlucky in love. Jim is a frequent visitor to the area, but has yet to meet “the one.” The campaign allows the audience to meet Jim; then, it asks the internet to help find him a date. Every other week the campaign will release a video of Jim’s latest date. Between dates, the campaign will feature bad date videos and stories submitted by the public, dating surveys, information on places to take a date. Jim’s grandmother even makes an appearance reading and reacting to fan comments. How will it turn out? Who will he choose? Tune in to find out at imstilllooking.com when the campaign concludes mid-April.
    Explore Nash County, the travel and tourism department for Nash County, partnered with travel marketing company Wonder Guides, Greensboro, NC, to create the ground-breaking campaign. The videos will be progressively released on the Explore Nash County social media pages, and on the campaign website imstilllooking.com.ADVERTISEMENTExplore Nash County partnered with Koi Pond Brewing Company, at Rocky Mount Mills, to create a custom “I’m Still Looking” beer dedicated to the campaign. The beer features an image of Jim Green with the call to action to help find him a date. A QR code on the can takes users to the landing page for the campaign at ImStillLooking.com. The beer will be released to the public in March 2023.
    The campaign videos currently released can be viewed at: www.imstilllooking.com
    For additional campaign content follow Explore Nash County on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/Explore.Nash.County.

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    Wentworth by the Sea to Join the Prestigious Opal Collection

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    Amaala unveils first hotel brand with focus on luxury and longevity

    Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations, Amaala and The Red Sea, has today announced a partnership with leading longevity clinic and wellness brand, Clinique La Prairie.The partnership involves the development of a high-end 36,115 sqm Clinique La Prairie Health Resort within Amaala, which is located on Saudi Arabia’s north-western coastline. The exclusive resort will offer 13 villas, as well as housing 52 rooms and suites.
    “Clinique La Prairie’s world-renowned facilities and health and wellness experiences, set against Saudi Arabia’s extraordinary natural landscapes, will take our visitors on transformative personal journeys inspired by arts, wellness, and the purity of the Red Sea. The resort’s subtle beauty – a product of Islamic architecture and modern craftmanship – will deliver a serene place in which to unwind, meditate and rejuvenate,” said John Pagano, Group CEO, Red Sea Global.
    Exceptional architecture
    Clinique La Prairie’s approach to wellbeing prioritizes longevity. This is symbolized by the central “Longevity Plaza” leading to four distinctive areas of the resort corresponding to each one of the property’s pillars – medical care, nutrition, movement and wellbeing. These sections will host a vast array of activities and facilities, including all the latest technologies developed over 90 years by Clinique La Prairie to enable clients to live a longer, healthier, and fuller life.
    The resort also features a diagnostics lab, museum, beach club, workshop and training rooms, private dining space, and even a cooking school, ensuring visitors can embark on an inimitable journey of rejuvenation and self-discovery.ADVERTISEMENT
    Landscaping around the property is vital to architect John Heah’s vision for the resort. Idyllic gardens are used to establish a sense of place and tranquility and add to the connected journey for visitors.
    Taking guests to a new state of mind
    Clinique La Prairie has a unique approach to wellbeing, combining leading preventative medicine, genetics and epigenetics with bespoke lifestyle and nutrition plans always grounded in the latest sciences.  Using the CLP Longevity MethodTM, medical specialists and holistic experts will provide guests with highly personalized revitalizing, immune-boosting and transformative itineraries over one week or longer stays, to embrace health and life to its fullest potential.
    The clinic’s expert will work to slow time, as well as restore visitors’ internal balance and remedy a wide range of conditions, including fatigue, anxiety, digestive disorders, insomnia, diabetes and more. Cutting-edge science and ancient healing practices combine to offer holistic practices.
    Clinique La Prairie will offer synergistic treatments to rejuvenate inside and out. The medical pillar will include advanced diagnostics lab and radiology, physio, neuroscience, dermo, aesthetics, and dentistry. On the wellbeing side the destination will provide cryochamber, hyperbaric suites, IV infusion and a series of next-generation therapies to be unveiled, all of which contribute to Amaala’s standing as a distinctive wellness destination.

    Respecting surrounding environments
    Sustainability is a cornerstone of Amaala, with the entire destination set to be powered by 100% renewable energy. Respect for flora and fauna also runs through every aspect of the resort’s design. For instance, Amaala’s buildings have been brought around 100 meters back from the coastline to avoid interference with the natural habitat of the Red Sea’s fragile turtle populations. Lighting is also carefully used to protect the night sky and limit the impact of artificial light on wildlife.
    Simone Gibertoni, CEO of Clinique La Prairie, stated: “At Amaala, we are creating the most important Health and Longevity-focused resort ever developed. We’re delighted to be building our very first full-scale destination in such an extraordinary setting and to help bring Red Sea Global’s vision of regenerative, ultra-luxury tourism to life.”

    Phase one of the destination is well underway and expects to welcome its first guests in 2024. It will consist of eight resorts offering upwards of 1,300 hotel keys.
    Upon completion, Amaala will be home to more than 3,000 hotel rooms across 25 hotels, and approximately 900 luxury residential villas, apartments, and estate homes, alongside high-end retail establishments, fine dining, wellness, and recreational facilities.

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    ALEPH HOSPITALITY TO DEVELOP AND OPERATE FAUCHON-BRANDED HOTELS IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA

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    easyJet and easyJet holidays launch February Payday Sale

    The best thing about February, besides the heavily discounted chocolate from the 14th onwards, is that payday comes early, and this month easyJet and easyJet holidays have launched special sales with super savings to make the deal sweeter.
    The UK’s fastest-growing tour operator, easyJet holidays, is offering customers up to £200* off their next holiday with a special payday promo. Customers can use the promocode FEBSAVER for £200* off with a minimum spend of £2000, and £100 off with a minimum spend of £800. The offer is valid on all bookings made until 23:00 on Tuesday 28 February 2023 and can be used on all packages available on the website for travel until 31 October 2023 (inclusive).
    So, whether it’s a beach-front all-inclusive with its own waterpark for a fun family vacay this summer, or a mate-cation to an easyJet holidays adults-only luxury hotel for a boujee break, there’s a package perfect for every need. All easyJet holidays packages include 23kgs of luggage per person, flights and transfers on all beach holidays. On top of that, all packages are covered by the package provider’s industry-leading Protection Promise.
    And for those hunting for a great deal on flights, easyJet currently has 10% off 100,000 seats on selected flights throughout March. Book up until 23:00 on Tuesday 28 February 2023 to enjoy discounted fares on hundreds of routes and enjoy a great value last minute break to Europe, North Africa or the Middle East.
    Customers can make the most of the late ski season with a trip to the Alps, or seek out the sun and head to Greece, Italy, Southern Spain or the Canary Islands with daytime temperatures reaching 21 °C. March is also prime time for a city break; explore all the sights of Venice, Milan and Berlin and avoid the crowds.ADVERTISEMENTDiscounted seats from airports across the U.K. are available to book from today, Thursday 23 February 2023, until 23:00 on Tuesday 28 February 2023 at easyJet.com or via the mobile app from just £17.99* including:
    London Gatwick to Ibiza, Mallorca and Rhodes from £20.99*, Lyon, Turin, Bologna and Toulouse from £20.99*London Luton to Faro, Malaga, Venice and Lanzarote from £17.99*, Amsterdam, Berlin, Milan and Agadir from £19.99*, Lyon and Innsbruck from £20.99*Bristol to Paris, Alicante, Geneva, Salzburg, Faro and Heraklion from £20.99*Manchester to Copenhagen and Turin from £20.99*, Faro and Alicante from £21.99*Liverpool to Belfast, Isle of Man and Jersey from £20.99*Edinburgh to Amsterdam, Grenoble and Fuerteventura from £20.99*Glasgow to Belfast and Birmingham from £20.99*Belfast to Jersey, Mallorca and Gran Canaria from £20.99*Book with easyJet holidays (www.easyjet.com/en/holidays tel: 0330 365 5005):
    easyJet holidays offers seven nights at 5* Aquasis Deluxe Resort and Spa in Bodrum on an All Inclusive Plus basis for £429 per person including 23kg of luggage per person, transfers and flights from Bristol on 13 April 2023.easyJet holidays offers seven nights at the 4* Apollo Beach in Rhodes on a Half Board basis for £369 per person including 23kg of luggage per person, transfers and flights from London Gatwick on 20 April 2023.easyJet holidays offers seven nights at the 3* Pueblo Torviscas in Tenerife on a Self Catering basis for £351 per person including 23kg of luggage per person, transfers and flights from London Gatwick on 2 May 2023.easyJet holidays offers seven nights at 4* Alfagar Alto da Colina in the Algarve on a Bed & Breakfast basis for £450 per person including 23kg of luggage per person, transfers and flights from London Luton on 15 April 2023.easyJet holidays offers seven nights at 3* Hotel Alameda in Benidorm on a Full Board basis for £414 per person including 23kg of luggage per person, transfers and flights from Liverpool on 14 April 2023.easyJet holidays offers three nights at the 4* Catalonia Plaza Cataluna in Barcelona on a Room Only basis for £352 per person including 23kg of luggage per person and flights from London Luton on 8 May 2023.easyJet holidays offers three nights at 5* Grandior Hotel Prague in Prague on a Bed & Breakfast basis for £374 per person including 23kg of luggage per person and flights from Manchester on 17 April 2023.easyJet holidays offers three nights at the 3* Du Bois in Paris on a Room Only basis for £377 per person including 23kg of luggage per person and flights from Bristol on 15 April 2023.Paul Bixby, easyJet holidays’ Commercial Director said:
    “We know that with warmer climates on the horizon our customers are already looking to book their next adventure. So, we’re pleased to launch our February payday sale with up to £200 off package holidays to help our customers get even better deals on already unbeatable value.”
    Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said:
    “We are delighted to be offering 10% off 100,000 seats on selected flights throughout March, providing our customers in the UK with an opportunity to take advantage of some amazing fares. Whether they’re looking for last minute snow or seeking the sun, March is a great time to explore more of Europe with easyJet and we look forward to welcoming our customers onboard.”
    Travellers looking for destination inspiration can head to easyJet’s Low Fare Finder at easyJet.com, where they will be able to search for the lowest fares available across the airline’s entire network from the UK, all in one place, making it easier than ever for customers to book their next trip.
    easyJet serves 19 UK airports, offering over 476 routes to over 133 destinations from the UK to Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. To discover more about easyJet’s UK network and to book, visit easyJet.com.

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    ITB Berlin Kicks Off with New Media Monday and Exciting Line-Up of Presenters and Exhibitors

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    ITB Berlin Kicks Off with New Media Monday and Exciting Line-Up of Presenters and Exhibitors

    Opening press conference on 6 March with leading representatives: Georgia, Phocuswright, the German Travel Association (DRV) and Messe Berlin – ITB Media Monday on 6 March featuring fascinating press conferences with the European Travel Commission, World Travel & Tourism Council and Saudi Tourism Authority – Numerous presentations by exhibitors featuring destinations, companies and organisations at ITB Berlin from 7 to 9 March at the Hybrid Studio in Hall 5.3, hub27 and the CityCube Berlin
    Only a few days to go until the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show opens its doors. With its new ITB Berlin Media Monday on 6 March 2023, ITB Berlin is for the first time kicking off one day before the official opening. “Media Monday” will start with the opening press conference on 6 March at 10 a.m. at the Palais am Funkturm exclusively for media representatives and bloggers at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds, and will be available in livestream for anyone interested on ITBxplore and the homepage of ITB Berlin (itb.com).
    Katie Gallus will moderate the event and Dirk Hoffmann, the host and Managing Director of Messe Berlin, will take a look at the highlights planned for this year’s ITB Berlin. Those present will receive first-hand insights into the host country Georgia from H.E. Levan Davitashvili, Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. Charuta Fadnis, SVP Research and Product Strategy at Phocuswright will talk about the growth of the global travel industry and present some of the trends that will dominate the market in the years to come. In addition, under the heading ’Travel is back – trends and economic outlook 2023’, Norbert Fiebig, President of the German Travel Association (DRV), will talk about the latest travel trends and provide an economic outlook for the German travel industry in 2023.
    Other media events on ITB Media Monday, 6 March 2023
    ’Long-Haul Travel to Europe: What to expect in 2023’ – press conference with the European Travel Commission (ETC)ADVERTISEMENTSpeakers: Luis Araujo, president, European Travel Commission (ETC) and Turismo de Portugal, Tom Jenkins, CEO, European Tourism Association (ETOA) and David Goodger, director, Tourism Economics
    11.45 a.m. – 12.30 p.m., Palais am Funkturm, and online on ITBxplore and itb.com
    Press conference – World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)
    Speaker: Julia Simpson, president & CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council
    1.15 p.m. – 2 p.m., Palais am Funkturm, and online on ITBxplore and itb.com
    Unexpected Arabia: Discover Saudi
    Speakers: Hazim Al Hazmi, Saudi Tourism Authority, Abdulrahman Aljefri, Diriyah, Julia Stubenböck, Royal Commission for AlUla Germany, Abdullah AlZahrani, Red Sea Global
    2.45 p.m. – 3.30 p.m., Palais am Funkturm, and online on ITBxplore and itb.com
    Press events: Tuesday, 7 March 2023
    Official opening tour of ITB Berlin including a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the stand of Georgia
    Times to be announced shortly. Media members wishing to attend must be accredited for ITB Berlin.
    Start of the tour: stand of Georgia, hub27/Stand 201
    Press conference – alltours
    Organiser: alltours Flugreisen GmbH
    9 a.m. – 11 p.m., hub27, Room Beta 8
    LGBTQ+ Media Brunch proudly presented by Visit Malta & Europride 2023
    The media networking event is open to all media members and bloggers interested in LGBTQ+ tourism. Exhibitors present: Comunitat Valencia, Europride 2023, Florida Keys & Key West, Gay Games 2026, GNETWORK Madrid, IGLTA, Local Gay Guide, Mykonistas, Munich Tourist Board, Proudly Portugal, TOMONTOUR, visit.brussels, Visit Buenos Aires and Visit Malta. To register please email [email protected]
    10 – 11.15 a.m., LGBTQ+ Tourism Pavilion, Hall 4.1
    Press conference – Ferienregion Nationalpark Hohe Tauern & Großglockner Hochalpenstraße
    Organiser: Ferienregion Nationalpark Hohe Tauern GmbH
    11 a.m. – 12 midday, hub27, Room Beta 2
    Press conference – South Africa
    Organiser: South African Tourism
    12 midday – 1 p.m., CityCube Berlin, Room R12
    Press conference – Qatar Airways
    Organiser: Qatar Airways
    12 midday – 1 p.m., CityCube Berlin, Room A3
    Press conference – the travel region of Saxony-Anhalt
    Organiser: Investitions- und Marketinggesellschaft Sachsen- Anhalt
    12.30 p.m. – 2 p.m., hub27, Room Beta 1
    Maldives Media Meet
    Organiser: Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation
    1 p.m. – 1.45 p.m., Hybrid Studio, Hall 5.3 and online at ITBxplore
    Official opening of the Medical & Health Tourism Pavilion and Medical Media Lunch, sponsored by the Catalan Tourist Board
    At the start of the event a minute’s silence will be held for the earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria. Exhibitors present: ESPA – European Spas Association, Ensana Hotel Group, EHTTA – European Historic Thermal Towns Association, GSTE – Great Spa Towns of Europe, HTI – Health Tourism Industry, Gremi Clinic, Albania, Dünyagöz Eye Clinic, Istanbul and many others.
    To register please email at [email protected]
    1 p.m. – 2 p.m., Medical & Health Tourism Pavilion, Hall 26c
    Press conference – Malaysia
    Organiser: Malaysia Tourism
    2 p.m. – 3 p.m., CityCube Berlin, Room M1
    Meeting of tour operators of the travel region of Saxony-Anhalt
    Organiser: Investitions- und Marketinggesellschaft Sachsen-Anhalt
    2 p.m. – 4 p.m., hub27, Room Gamma 3
    Mecklenburg West-Pomerania – what’s new at this holiday destination, featuring a preview to mark the 250th birthday of Caspar David Friedrich
    Organiser: Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Vorpommern e.V.
    2.15 p.m. – 3 p.m., Hybrid Studio, Hall 5.3, and online on ITBxplore
    Presentation by Georgia followed by a reception
    Mariam Kvrivishvili, Deputy Minister for the Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, will present Georgia’s main tourism highlights.
    3 p.m., CityCube Berlin, Room M6
    Press conference – Egypt
    Organiser: Egyptian Tourism Authority
    3 p.m. – 4 p.m., CityCube Berlin, Room M2
    Guidance for trips to China in 2023 – what to observe
    Organiser: CIBTvisas
    3.30 p.m. – 4.15 p.m., Hybrid Studio, Hall 5.3, and online on ITBxplore
    Press events, Wednesday, 8 March 2023   
    Scandlines – eco-friendly sea trips to Scandinavia
    Breakfast with the press – 2023
    Organiser: Scandlines
    10 a.m. – 12 midday, CityCube Berlin, Room R3
    Opportunities for business and cooperation in East Africa
    Organiser: Bondacon International
    10.30 a.m. – 12.30 p.m., CityCube Berlin, Room R2
    Costa Rica: Sustainable tourism and what’s new
    Organiser: Costa Rica
    11.30 a.m. – 12.30 p.m., hub27, Room Beta 4
    Press conference – Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg
    Organiser: Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg GmbH
    11.45 a.m. – 12.30 p.m., Hybrid Studio, Hall 5.3, and online on ITBxplore
    Fostering Sustainable Tourism through Social Entrepreneurship:
    Best Practices and Challenges. Meet the winners of the Social Entrepreneurship Competition in Tourism (2022)
    Organiser: Social Entrepreneurship in Tourism Competition in cooperation with ITB Berlin
    1 p.m. – 1.45 p.m., Hybrid Studio, Hall 5.3, and online on ITBxplore
    Explore Adventure Tourism in Georgia
    Organiser: The USAID Georgia Economic Security Program
    2.15 p.m. – 3 p.m., Hybrid Studio, Hall 5.3, and online on ITBxplore
    5th IIPT CELEBRATING HER AWARDS
    presented by the International Institute for Peace through Tourism (IIPT), India in cooperation with ITB Berlin
    Honours will be presented for women’s outstanding achievements in the travel, tourism and hospitality sector.
    3.30 p.m.– 4.15 p.m., Hybrid Studio, Hall 5.3, and online on ITBxplore
    Gender Equality Champion of the Year Award – the first award of its kind in the tourism sectorThe new award is being presented by Equality in Tourism (equalityintourism.org) in cooperation with ITB Berlin. It honours tourism organisations for their outstanding achievements in supporting gender equality. The idea is to celebrate successes, but also to drive improvements and encourage tourism companies to integrate gender equality in their policies and the day-to-day working environment.
    4.45 p.m. – 5.30 p.m., Hybrid Studio, Hall 5.3, and online on ITBxplore
    PATWA INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL AWARDS
    Organiser: Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA)
    2.30 p.m. – 5.30 p.m. in the CityCube Berlin, Room A4
    Press events, Thursday, 9 March 2023
    ADFC Bicycle Travel Analysis 2023
    Organiser: Allgemeiner Deutscher Fahrrad-Club e.V. (ADFC)
    10 a.m. – 11.30 a.m., CityCube Berlin, Room A4
    Press conference – Amazing Thailand
    Organiser: Tourism Authority of Thailand
    11.45 a.m. – 12.30 p.m., Hybrid Studio, Hall 5.3
    Best travel journalism of the year –
    Presentation of the VDRJ Columbus Journalism Awards 2022
    Organiser: Vereinigung Deutscher Reisejournalisten (VDRJ) e.V.
    4.30 p.m. – 6 p.m., Hybrid Studio, Hall 5.3, and online on ITBxplore
    Presentation of the Best Exhibitor Award
    Organiser: CBS International Business School in cooperation with co:compass and ITB Berlin
    6.30 p.m., Blue Stage, Hall 7.1b
    Details of all events can be found in the summary of events and online on ITBxplore.
    Online accreditation for ITB Berlin 2023
    Media members and bloggers can register for ITB Berlin, subject to observance of the accreditation guidelines. After your application has been processed and approved you will receive an email with a PDF containing your ITB press accreditation, which you can print out.
    Accreditation for ITB Berlin 2023
    Please note: during ITB Berlin it will not be possible for press representatives to obtain accreditation at the press counters on the grounds. We therefore request you obtain accreditation online ahead of the event.

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