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      ITB Berlin 2023 Announces Winners of Prestigious ITB BookAward

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      With its annual ITB BookAward, ITB Berlin recognizes titles from Germany and abroad, written mainly in German, but also in German translation, which honour outstanding journalistic achievements. The aim is to focus attention beyond national borders on the broad spectrum of important intercultural travel and tourism publications.
      The winners of the ITB BookAward 2023 have been decided upon. An independent jury comprising experts on countries, media members and booksellers have selected authors, titles, trends and innovations in a wide range of relevant and fascinating categories. In the main category, this year’s Destinations Award is dedicated to Georgia, the official host country of ITB Berlin 2023. Alice, a new category, honours the best books for young people with a focus on travel, thus setting a new trend. Once again ITB Berlin, which takes place from 7 to 9 March 2023, is collaborating with Börsenverein des Deutschen Buchhandels. The ITB Book Award does not confer prize money.
      ITB BookAward 2023 – the winners
      These are as follows: The World Heritage publications and publishers Kunth/MairDumont, Andreas Kieling, Alexandra Schels and Patrick Pichler, Diplom-Geograf Michael Martin, Prof. Laurence C. Smith, Giorgi Kvastiani with Vadim Spolanski and Andreas Sternfeldt, Dr. Stefan Applis, Nina Kramm, Daniela Schetar and Friedrich Köthe, Eva Wieners, Aleš Šteger, Peter Koller, Daniela Trauthwein, Ernst Wrba, Frances Mayes with Ondine Cohane, Andrea David, Olaf Obsommer, Petra Münzel-Kaiser, Angela Misslbeck, Abi Elphinstone, Matthias Kröner and Mina Braun, Corinna Lawrenz, Johann Fleuri and Pierre Javelle, Gerhard J. Rekel, Dipl.- Ing. Oliver G. Hamm, Andreas Kossert, the audiobook travel features of Hörverlag, Stefan Moster, Raynor Winn, Alexander Oetker, Gregor Münch and Markus Belz, the publisher riva Verlag for the publication of traditional cuisines, KOSMOS NEUER WELTATLAS, Dr. Peter Fretwell, Prof. Dr. Uwe Weithörner with Prof. Dr. Robert Goecke, Prof. Dr. Eberhard Kurz and Prof. Dr. Axel Schulz (publisher), the illuminated globe for children ’Columbus Kinder- Leuchtglobus Unsere Erde’ and the illuminated globe ’3D Relief Leuchtglobus Atmosphere R4 gold’.
      Categories, winners, titles and publishersADVERTISEMENTCategory: Lifetime Award
      Publisher, ’50 Jahre Welterbekonvention 2022’
      Kunth/MairDumont, leading World Heritage publisher
      Wildlife filmmaker, adventurer, author, Andreas Kieling | Title ‘Andreas Kieling – 30 Jahre Tierfilm. Wilde Tiere, weite Welt und große Abenteuer’, published by NG Buchverlag, München
      Category: Travel calendars
      UNESCO World Heritage, ‘Wandkalender UNESCO Erbe der Welt 2023’
      UNESCO World Heritage, ‘Tischkalender UNESCO Erbe der Welt 2023, 365 Tage’
      UNESCO World Heritage, ‘Wandkalender UNESCO Naturerbe der Welt 2023’
      UNESCO World Heritage, ‘Tischkalender UNESCO Naturerbe der Welt 2023, 365 Tage’,
      all published by Kunth/Mairdumont, München-Ostfildern
      Longing for the Far East, Alexandra Schels, Patrick Pichler | ‘Wandkalender Fernweh Fernost 2023’, published by teNeues Verlag, Augsburg
      Category: Management Award of ITB Berlin
      Fascinating World Heritage, ‘Das Erbe der Welt – Alle Kultur- und Naturmonumente mit Anerkennung der UNESCO’, published by Verlag Kunth/Mairdumont, München- Ostfildern
      The Miracle of this World by Diplom-Geograf Michael Martin | ‘TERRA – Gesichter der Erde’, published by Knesebeck Verlag, München
      Category: Cultures
      UNESCO World Heritage, ‘Das Erbe der Welt – Alle Kultur- und Naturmonumente mit Anerkennung der UNESCO’, published by Verlag Kunth/Mairdumont, München-Ostfildern
      The cultural impact of rivers, Prof. Laurence C. Smith | ‘Weltgeschichte der Flüsse – Wie mächtige Ströme Reiche schufen, Kulturen zerstörten und unsere Zivilisation prägen’, published by Siedler Verlag, München
      Category: Destinations Award 2023 – Georgia
      Georgia – a comprehensive travel guide, Giorgi Kvastiani, Vadim Spolanski, Andreas Sternfeldt | ‘Georgien – Mit Tbilisi, Batumi, Kachetien, Kartli, Adscharien, Kolchis, Schwarzem Meer, Swanetien’, published by Trescher Verlag, Berlin
      Svaneti – a travel guide, Dr. Stefan Applis | ‘Swanetien entdecken – Ein Kultur- und Naturreiseführer für Georgien/Südlicher Kaukasus’, published by Mitteldeutscher Verlag, Halle
      Illustrated volume, Dr. Stefan Applis | ‘Swanetien – Tradition und Moderne’, published by Mitteldeutscher Verlag, Halle
      Hiking guide, Nina Kramm | ‘Georgien – Kleiner und Großer Kaukasus’, published by Bergverlag Rother, Oberhaching
      Category: Frankfurt Book Fair 2023 Guest of Honour – Slovenia
      Slovenia – a comprehensive travel guide, Daniela Schetar, Friedrich Köthe | ‘Slowenien mit Triest – mit 15 Wanderungen’, published by Reise Know-How Verlag Peter Rump, Bielefeld
      Hiking guide, Eva Wieners | ‘Soèa und Triglav Nationalpark – 45 Wander- und Entdeckertouren in Sloweniens wildem Westen’, published by Naturzeit Reiseverlag, Kottgeisering
      Special travel book, Aleš Šteger | ‘Gebrauchsanweisung für Slowenien’, published by Piper Verlag, München
      Category: German travel regions – the Palatinate
      Travel guide, Peter Koller | ‘Pfalz’, published by Reise Know-How Verlag Peter Rump
      Hiking, Daniela Trauthwein | ‘Wanderungen für die Seele – Wohlfühlwege Pfalz’,
      Cycling tours, Ernst Wrba | ‘Radeln für die Seele – Alte Bahntrassen Rheinland-Pfalz’, both published by Droste Verlag, Düsseldorf
      Category: Illustrated travel book
      Italy, Frances Mayes with Ondine Cohane | ‘Sempre Italia – Eine Liebeserklärung an Lebensart, Küche und Kultur’, published by Verlag Frederking & Thaler, München
      Film tourism, Andrea David | ‘Szene für Szene die Welt entdecken’, published by Conbook Verlag, Neuss
      Category: Outdoors
      Canoeing expeditions, Olaf Obsommer, Petra Münzel-Kaiser | ‘Sick Life Line’, published by Conbook Verlag, Neuss
      Hiking, Gregor Münch, Markus Belz | ‘Romantische Straße – Von Würzburg nach Füssen’, published by Verlag Esterbauer, Rodingersdorf (A)
      Category: Travelling with children
      Angela Misslbeck | ‘Wohnmobilreisen mit Kindern’, published by Bruckmann Verlag, München
      New category: Alice Award for books for young people
      Adventures in a fantasy world, Abi Elphinstone | ‘Caspar und die Träne des Phönix’, vol. 1 in the series ‘Die vier verborgenen Reiche’, from age 10, published by Carlsen Verlag, Hamburg
      In Australia’s mangrove swamps, Matthias Kröner, Mina Braun/Illustration | ‘Der Billabongkönig’, from age 7, published by Beltz & Gelberg Verlag, Weinheim
      Category: Special travel books
      Culinary journeys, Corinna Lawrenz | ‘Zu Gast in Portugal – Sehnsuchtsorte, Originalrezepte und Geheimtipps’, published by Callwey Verlag, München
      The many aspects of Tokyo, Johann Fleuri, Pierre Javelle/Fotos | ‘Tokyo – Eine Augenreise’, published by Dorling Kindersley Verlag, München
      Rail journeys, Gerhard J. Rekel | ‘Monsieur Orient-Express – Wie es Georges Nagelmackers gelang, Welten zu verbinden’, published by Verlag Kremayr & Scheriau, Vienna
      Architecture, Dipl.-Ing. Oliver G. Hamm | ‘Architekturführer Dresden’, published by Verlag DOM publishers, Berlin
      Masuria, Andreas Kossert | ‘Gebrauchsanweisung für Masuren’, published by Piper Verlag, München
      Audiobook travel features:
      ‘Sehnsucht Italien – Eine akustische Reise von den Dolomiten bis nach Sizilien’
      ‘Sehnsucht Frankreich – Eine akustische Reise von der Bretagne bis nach Korsika’
      ‘Sehnsucht Spanien & Portugal – Eine akustische Reise von Lissabon bis Madrid, von Madeira bis Mallorca’
      ‘Die schönsten Städte Europas – Eine akustische Reise von Amsterdam bis Zürich’,
      all published by Hörverlag, München
      Category: Literary travel books
      Longing for the Arctic, Stefan Moster | ‘Das Fundament des Eisbergs – Eine arktische Sehnsucht’, published by mareverlag, Hamburg
      Nature Writing, Raynor Winn | Trilogie: ‘Der Salzpfad’, ‘Wilde Stille’, ‘Überland’, published by DuMont Reiseverlag, Ostfildern
      Category: Travel cookbooks
      For gourmets and crime thriller fans Alexander Oetker | ‘Chez Luc – Mit Commissaire Verlain durch Frankreichs kulinarischen Südwesten. Das Aquitaine-Kochbuch’, published by Verlag Hoffmann und Campe, Hamburg
      Special Cookbook Award, for riva Verlag, for the publication of six traditional cuisines:
      ‘Parwana – Eine kulinarische Reise durch Afghanistan’,
      ‘Das Tibet-Kochbuch – Traditionelle Rezepte aus dem Himalaya’,
      ‘Muskat, Zimt und Kardamom – Eine kulinarische Reise entlang der alten Gewürzroute’, ‘Mesopotamia – Aramäisch kochen’,
      ‘Das Ukraine-Kochbuch’,
      ‘Indien vegetarisch – Die kulinarischen Schätze der indischen Küche’
      Category: Atlases, globes
      World atlas, ‘KOSMOS NEUER WELTATLAS – Das Standardwerk mit aktuellen und präzisen Karten’, published by Franckh-Kosmos Verlag, Stuttgart
      Atlas of the Antarctic, Dr. Peter Fretwell | ‘Antarktis – Atlas eines unbekannten Kontinents’, published by Franckh-Kosmos Verlag, Stuttgart
      Children’s globe, ‘Columbus Kinder-Leuchtglobus Unsere Erde’, distributed by COLUMBUS Verlag, Krauchenwies
      Globe, ‘3D-Relief-Leuchtglobus Atmosphere R4 gold’, distributed by Räthgloben 1917, Markranstädt
      Category: Specialist tourism literature
      Guide and manual, Prof. Dr. Uwe Weithörner, Prof. Dr. Robert Goecke, Prof. Dr. Eberhard Kurz, Prof. Dr. Axel Schulz (publisher) | ‘Digitaler Tourismus – Informationsmanagement im Tourismus’, published by Verlag Walter De Gruyter/Studium, Berlin/Boston
      New category: Alice Award for books for young people
      Adventures in a fantasy world, Abi Elphinstone | ‘Caspar und die Träne des Phönix’, vol. 1 in the series ‘Die vier verborgenen Reiche’, from age 10, published by Carlsen Verlag, Hamburg
      In Australia’s mangrove swamps, Matthias Kröner, Mina Braun/Illustration | ‘Der Billabongkönig’, from age 7, published by Beltz & Gelberg Verlag, Weinheim
      Category: Special travel books
      Culinary journeys, Corinna Lawrenz | ‘Zu Gast in Portugal – Sehnsuchtsorte, Originalrezepte und Geheimtipps’, published by Callwey Verlag, München
      The many aspects of Tokyo, Johann Fleuri, Pierre Javelle/Fotos | ‘Tokyo – Eine Augenreise’, published by Dorling Kindersley Verlag, München
      Rail journeys, Gerhard J. Rekel | ‘Monsieur Orient-Express – Wie es Georges Nagelmackers gelang, Welten zu verbinden’, published by Verlag Kremayr & Scheriau, Vienna
      Architecture, Dipl.-Ing. Oliver G. Hamm | ‘Architekturführer Dresden’, published by Verlag DOM publishers, Berlin
      Masuria, Andreas Kossert | ‘Gebrauchsanweisung für Masuren’, published by Piper Verlag, München
      Audiobook travel features:
      ‘Sehnsucht Italien – Eine akustische Reise von den Dolomiten bis nach Sizilien’
      ‘Sehnsucht Frankreich – Eine akustische Reise von der Bretagne bis nach Korsika’
      ‘Sehnsucht Spanien & Portugal – Eine akustische Reise von Lissabon bis Madrid, von Madeira bis Mallorca’
      ‘Die schönsten Städte Europas – Eine akustische Reise von Amsterdam bis Zürich’,
      all published by Hörverlag, München
      Category: Literary travel books
      Longing for the Arctic, Stefan Moster | ‘Das Fundament des Eisbergs – Eine arktische Sehnsucht’, published by mareverlag, Hamburg
      Nature Writing, Raynor Winn | Trilogie: ‘Der Salzpfad’, ‘Wilde Stille’, ‘Überland’, published by DuMont Reiseverlag, Ostfildern
      Category: Travel cookbooks
      For gourmets and crime thriller fans Alexander Oetker | ‘Chez Luc – Mit Commissaire Verlain durch Frankreichs kulinarischen Südwesten. Das Aquitaine-Kochbuch’, published by Verlag Hoffmann und Campe, Hamburg
      Special Cookbook Award, for riva Verlag, for the publication of six traditional cuisines:
      ‘Parwana – Eine kulinarische Reise durch Afghanistan’,
      ‘Das Tibet-Kochbuch – Traditionelle Rezepte aus dem Himalaya’,
      ‘Muskat, Zimt und Kardamom – Eine kulinarische Reise entlang der alten Gewürzroute’, ‘Mesopotamia – Aramäisch kochen’,
      ‘Das Ukraine-Kochbuch’,
      ‘Indien vegetarisch – Die kulinarischen Schätze der indischen Küche’
      Category: Atlases, globes
      World atlas, ‘KOSMOS NEUER WELTATLAS – Das Standardwerk mit aktuellen und präzisen Karten’, published by Franckh-Kosmos Verlag, Stuttgart
      Atlas of the Antarctic, Dr. Peter Fretwell | ‘Antarktis – Atlas eines unbekannten Kontinents’, published by Franckh-Kosmos Verlag, Stuttgart
      Children’s globe, ‘Columbus Kinder-Leuchtglobus Unsere Erde’, distributed by COLUMBUS Verlag, Krauchenwies
      Globe, ‘3D-Relief-Leuchtglobus Atmosphere R4 gold’, distributed by Räthgloben 1917, Markranstädt
      Category: Specialist tourism literature
      Guide and manual, Prof. Dr. Uwe Weithörner, Prof. Dr. Robert Goecke, Prof. Dr. Eberhard Kurz, Prof. Dr. Axel Schulz (publisher) | ‘Digitaler Tourismus – Informationsmanagement im Tourismus’, published by Verlag Walter De Gruyter/Studium, Berlin/Boston
      The members of the ITB Book Awards 2023 jury are:
      David Ruetz (chair), senior vice president, Messe Berlin
      Eckart Baier, journalist
      Cornelia Camen, journalist
      Prof. Dr. Roland Conrady, Hochschule Worms, Faculty of Tourism and Travel Management
      Prof. Dr. Rainer Hartmann, Hochschule Bremen, Faculty of Social Sciences, Leisure and Tourism Management
      Armin Herb, Redaktionsbüro Herb
      Rika Jean-François, CSR commissioner, ITB Berlin
      Regine Kiepert, proprietor, Schropp Land & Karte
      Martina Kraus, branch manager, RavensBuch
      Burghard Rauschelbach, geographer and tourism consultant
      Raphaela Sabel, journalist
      Gerd W. Seidemann, journalist

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      Aer Lingus Launches Direct Route from Ireland West to London Heathrow

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      British Airways Partnering with Travel Places to Offer Sustainable Aviation Fuel for Business Travel More

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      Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Launches ‘Center Stage’ Music Program with Abbey Road Studios

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      Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is delighted to announce the creation of ‘Center Stage’ – an exciting new music program that supports the talents of tomorrow, pairs emerging and established artists and provides studio time and suite time to foster musical collaboration and mentor the creative process.Over the next three years, Fairmont, with the support of Abbey Road Studios, the most famous recording studio in the world, will provide 1000 hours of studio time and 1000 hours of suite time to up-and-coming artists across the globe, while documenting their artistic journeys – from writing and recording to live performances.
      The Center Stage program will launch at the Beaufort Bar at The Savoy, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, in London, on February 8th, 2023, featuring special performances by Rema and 0207 Def Jam’s rising star, Debbie. At the event, Fairmont will lift the curtain on the music writing process by sharing a documentary of its first collaboration – including the evolution of a track during a studio session, delving into the meaning behind the song, and where the artists found inspiration. The chronological docuseries will begin in The Royal Suite by Gucci at The Savoy, highlighting the way brilliance often strikes in meaningful settings. The artists are then followed to Abbey Road Studios’ Writing Rooms where they shape their creation with the help and support of their paired mentor and Abbey Road’s world class engineers and experts.
      “Fairmont is where guests experience the grandest of feelings. We are passionate about delivering authentic experiences that share the best that our destinations have to offer – and music plays a significant role in making those connections,” said Mansi Vagt, Global Vice President Fairmont Brand, Accor. “Music is highly emotive and can be a powerful way that travelers connect to their favorite memories. Through our work with Abbey Road Studios we look forward to tapping into many diverse genres of music that will resonate with our Fairmont guests and our local communities around the world.”
      Nigerian singer and rapper Rema has been making waves around the world with his gently provocative sound. Rema’s signature Afrorave style weaves African, Arabian and Indian influences for an upbeat sound that reverberates with good vibes and rave energy. Having learned to sing as a child in church, Rema got his first break in 2018 when D’Prince spotted him freestyling to “Gucci Gang” on Instagram, leading to a record deal with Jonzing World. Following his first breakout hit, “Dumebi”, Rema gained global attention when his track “Iron Man” was included on Barack & Michelle Obama’s Summer Playlist 2019. The following year, “Beamer” was selected for the FIFA 2021 soundtrack, and in 2022 he collaborated with Selena Gomez for a remix of his hit single “Calm Down”, which debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 and is No.6 in the UK Official Charts.
      “Center Stage is an incredible program that Fairmont and Abbey Road Studios have put together, and I’m honored to be included as a performing artist,” said Rema. “Using their power and resources to reach out to young talented artists – not only giving them a platform to access the world with their music, but helping them along the way to shape and refine their sound, their vision, and their community. It’s very inspiring, and I love being a part of it.”ADVERTISEMENTCenter Stage is designed to not only identify new musical talent, but also offer tools and initiatives to support emerging artists during the launch and development of their careers. This includes access to Abbey Road Studios’ annual Amplify festival – designed to inspire and empower the next generation of creators featuring masterclasses, interactive sessions, workshops, Q&As and live talks with industry leaders who share their knowledge and provide insight into the music business. Fairmont and the Center Stage artists will also have access to Abbey Road’s modern tracking studios, the Gatehouse and Front Room, which were built for the next generation of music artists, working alongside Abbey Road’s world class engineers.
      “Fairmont has a long history of supporting the arts and musicians, which is why we are happy to support Center Stage and its efforts to find and develop new and exciting talent” said Jeremy Huffelmann, General Manager, Abbey Road Studios. “We believe it is so important to cast a wide net and foster emerging artists from around the world who might not otherwise have a platform – helping them to reach higher levels in their careers and providing them with opportunities to showcase their talent.”“Tapping into Abbey Road’s resources and network will enable us to create a relevant and innovative music mentorship program in many of our global destinations,” said Ralitza Iordanova, Vice President Global Brand Partnerships, Accor. “We are confident we can make a meaningful difference to the lives and careers of many up-and-coming artists that might not have otherwise been able to share their music with the world.”
      Artists will be able to apply for opportunities using Gixon. The fully automated delivery app, having recently launched in London in October 2022, aims to change the way people book and consume live music, and provides reliable opportunities and income to artists and musicians. Gixon will help curate a local roster in each location where the program is implemented, as well as providing a pool of talent for Fairmont hotel teams to enrich their entertainment offer by booking local artists to perform at their hotels.
      For generations, Fairmont suites have hosted countless music artists, icons, stars and celebrities, while providing guests with unforgettable moments of music. Some say that romance found its true heart in 1962, when Tony Bennett crooned “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” at Fairmont San Francisco for the very first time. From the Celine Dion Suite at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac; the Quincy Jones Suite at Fairmont Le Montreux Palace; to John Lennon & Yoko Ono’s Bed-In for Peace in suite 1742 at Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, some of music’s most influential performers have been inspired during their stays at Fairmont.
      Artists in the Center Stage program will have access to their own ‘suite time’ at one of several extraordinary Fairmont properties around the world. Participating hotels include:
      The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, Royal Plaza Suite, USAThe Savoy, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, Royal Suite, UKFairmont Singapore, Signature Suite, SingaporeFairmont Peace Hotel, Nine Nation Suites, ChinaFairmont The Palm, Presidential Suite, UAEFairmont Pacific Rim, Prime Minister Suite, CanadaFairmont Royal York, The Crown Suite, CanadaFairmont The Queen Elizabeth, John Lennon & Yoko Ono Suite, CanadaFairmont San Francisco, Penthouse Suite, USAFairmont Ajman, Royal Penthouse Suite, UAEFairmont Le Montreux Palace, Presidential Suite, SwitzerlandFairmont Monte Carlo, Commodore Suite, MonacoFairmont St Andrews’ Executive Suite, ScotlandFairmont Ambassador Seoul, Signature Suite, South KoreaFairmont Century Plaza, Specialty Suites, USAFairmont Olympic Hotel, Penthouse Suite, USAFairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, Signature Suite, BrazilFairmont Austin, Signature Suite, USA
      For more information on Center Stage, visit www.fairmont.com/centerstage

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      Acacia Africa Adds Nine Countries To Its Small Group Tours

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      Acacia Africa Adds Nine Countries To Its Small Group Tours

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      Travellers opting for a 2023 small group experience with leading safari specialist Acacia Africa, have an additional nine countries to choose from. Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi, Uganda, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Kenya, and Zambia now feature on the operator’s Small Group Adventure Camping and Small Group Adventure Accommodated tours, with each trip taking a maximum of 16 people. To mark the news, Acacia will be offering discounts of 15% on Small Group Adventure Camping Tours and 10% on Small Group Adventure Accommodated tours if booked before February 28. The discount will be available on all 2023 scheduled departures and is subject to availability.
      Arno Delport, Marketing Manager at Acacia Africa comments, “We have expanded and broadened our small group destinations and realised the demand for ‘TRUE’ small group travel in Africa. Priced from only £602pp for a four-day Kruger Safari, every Small Group Adventure is packed with immersive experiences from seeing the wildlife to engaging with local communities. We will continue to run these trips in our custom built vehicles – the extra space and added comfort allows clients to really stretch out on longer drives and enjoy unequalled window access throughout. All the memorable African experiences of Acacia’s Adventure Tours will remain – but without the crowd!”
      ​“2023 is poised to be an exciting year for Africa, with travellers keen to explore the continent’s classic safari destinations, including Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti. Bucket lists are also expanding, and we are seeing growing interest for more out of the way places, for example, Eswatini and Lesotho. Overall travellers are more confident about booking longer trips, and well ahead of their departure, the pent up demand for travel to Africa refueling the coffers of worthy conservation and community projects. Our desire to travel is also at an all time high with many of us willing to cut back on costs in order to enjoy our dream safari, our affordable Small Group Adventures helping to make those dreams a reality.”

      The first country in Africa to offer a ‘digital nomad’ visa, Namibia is destined to be a popular destination in 2023. According to Acacia, remote working has boosted bleisure travel, and the opportunity to take several trips in the Land of the Brave, and across neighbouring countries, over a six month period is an inviting prospect. The cinematic sense of wonder afforded to travellers journeying across Namibia is compelling. Etosha’s otherworldly salt pan, the Fish River Canyon (regarded as Africa’s very own Grand Canyon), Spitzkoppe’s dramatic bald granite peaks, Dune 45, Deadvlei, and the vast dunes of Swakopmund (one of Africa’s many adventure capitals), are breathtaking sights to behold. All of these locations feature on the 19-day Cape Town to Victoria Falls, the Small Group Adventure Camping Experience, also including wildlife viewing in Botswana’s Chobe National Park, a slow paced scenic mokoro safari on the Okavango Delta, and back in Namibia, game drives in Etosha National Park. SAVE 15% (£327pp) from £1,858pp (no single supplement) + Adventure Pass from £325pp including all highlights, transport, camping accommodation, most meals, services of a tour leader and driver. Starts Cape Town – ends Livingstone. Year-round scheduled departures. Full tour price £2,185pp.ADVERTISEMENT
      Kenya, known as the “Land of the Original Safari,” is widely regarded as Africa’s most iconic wildlife destination. While there are no guarantees, there is a good chance of seeing all five of the Big Five within its national parks, but twinning Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s neighbouring Serengeti is the ultimate combination. Proving that these bucket list countries can be visited on a budget, Acacia’s 13-day Small Group Kenya & Tanzania Accommodated Adventure combines classic Africa with stays in inexpensive, yet superior lodges and tented camps. The complete itinerary includes game drives in the Masai Mara (the thrill of the annual migration best viewed from July through September), the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, a Masai Culture village walk in Arusha, and a stay on the Spice island of Zanzibar. SAVE 10% (£211pp) from £1,904pp (no single supplement) + Adventure Pass from £1,159pp including all highlights, transport, accommodation (including comfortable lodges and tented camps, plus bush camping in the Serengeti/Ngorongoro), most meals, services of a tour leader and driver.  Starts Nairobi – ends Dar es Salaam. Year-round scheduled departures. Full tour price £2,115pp.

      All prices exclude return flight. Discount excludes Adventure Pass. All offers subject to availability. Acacia Africa’s Small Group Adventure Camping and Small Group Adventure Accommodated Tours are aimed at travellers aged 18+.  Acacia offers pre and post accommodation and a wide selection of city breaks and short stays. Acacia Africa (020 7706 4700; acacia-africa.com). ABTA No. W4093 PROTECTED.

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      Gordon Smith Named Destination Development Director for South of Scotland by VisitScotland

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      Gordon Smith Named Destination Development Director for South of Scotland by VisitScotland

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      Gordon Smith, who has worked within tourism for more than 26 years and for the national tourism organisation since 2005, will take up the role.  Gordon has held several senior roles at VisitScotland during this time, most recently as the Regional Director for Ayrshire and Arran, Renfrewshire and Inverclyde, where he has been instrumental in the ongoing development of the Ayrshire and Arran Visitor Economy Strategy.
      In this role, Gordon will be responsible for leading on the continued responsible recovery of the tourism industry in the South of Scotland. He will lead on the delivery of the key strategic tourism priorities set out in the regional economic strategy and help to support the ambitions of the national tourism strategy, Scotland Outlook 2023, for Scotland to be a world leader in 21st century tourism.
      Rob Dickson, VisitScotland Director of Industry and Destination Development said: “I would like to congratulate Gordon Smith on this appointment to what is key role in the South of Scotland. Gordon has considerable experience in partnership and stakeholder relations, as well as extensive knowledge of all aspects of tourism during his varied career. He is very familiar with the needs of the tourism industry and is well placed to support development of the sector in the region.
      “Gordon will lead on our key strategic relationships in the South of Scotland, working with South of Scotland Enterprise, both Councils, the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and other partners to support the responsible growth of our tourism and events industry.
      “Tourism is a force for good. It creates jobs, sustains communities and contributes significantly to the economy and I am confident that Gordon will ensure this is the case in the South of Scotland.”ADVERTISEMENTGordon Smith, VisitScotland Destination Development Director for the South of Scotland said: “It has been an incredible challenging time for our tourism and events industry in recent years and our focus remains on supporting the ongoing recovery of this valuable part of our economy.
      “I look forward to taking up this role at an exciting time for the South of Scotland. The region received global recognition from its inclusion on Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel Guide 2023 and as we countdown to hosting key events as part of the UCI Cycling World Championships and the opening of the coast-to-coast cycle route, we will build on the important partnerships we have in place in the South of Scotland to drive forward tourism recovery and continue to strengthen the economy of the south.”
      Gordon will work alongside VisitScotland Destination Development Directors for the Highlands and Islands and Central and North East regions, working directly with relevant enterprise agencies and regional economic partnerships to deliver the work of the National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET).
      For more information on the work of VisitScotland, visit www.visitscotland.org

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      Radisson Hotel Group Brings Iconic Hotel Berlin to the Radisson Individuals Portfolio

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      Authorities from Quito Turismo and the UNWTO met in Madrid with the aim of working together

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      María Cristina Rivadeneira, the General Director of Quito Turismo, and Gustavo Santos, head of the Americas for the UNWTO, discussed the current situation of Quito´s tourism sector and possible new initiatives to support its recovery process,Through Quito Turismo, the city´s town council is working on strengthening tourism and generating more opportunities for developing the productive sector through specific priority action.
      In this regard, María Cristina Rivadeneira, general manager of Quito Turismo, met with Gustavo Santos, head of the Americas for the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), at its headquarters in Madrid, Spain.
      Also present at the meeting were Etzon Romo, development manager at Quito Turismo, Esther Ruiz from the Regional Department for the Americas at the UNWTO, Patricia Carmona and Michel Julian from the Tourism Market Intelligence department; and Lorena Villar from the Tourism and Competitiveness department at the UNWTO.
      During the meeting, the authorities discussed the tourism situation in the Ecuadorian capital and the potential to establish initiatives to help the sector continue its process of recovery following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
      Santos, who was the Minister of Tourism and the State Secretary for Tourism for the Nation of Argentina from 2015 to 2019, claimed that he had a special love for Quito, a city with an “extraordinary wealth of culture” and which the UNWTO will support and encourage in its growth.ADVERTISEMENTp >In the meeting, the highest authority of Quito Turismo shared a brief explanation of the work which is going on in Ecuador´s capital to advance the growth of tourism; mentioned the need to reinforce plans to encourage tourism not only to the main attractions in the Metropolitan District´s urban area, but also to the region´s 33 rural parishes; and highlighted that, with the Universidad Andina Simón Bolívar, a programme is being promoted that aims to obtain data and territorial information that will make it possible to outline specific actions to strengthen the sector.
      Gustavo Santos emphasised that the World Tourism Organisation will offer its experience, assistance and support to Quito and Ecuador so they can position themselves as an attractive, safe and sustainable destination for international visitors; and he reminded everyone that, in June this year, the country will host the 68th Meeting of the UNWTO Regional Commission for the Americas, a meeting which is expected to consolidate work with Ecuador.
      Santos expressed the UNWTO´s interest in setting up a pilot project which will enable the collection of real information about the rural area of the DMQ and which will establish public policies and plans to increase tourism. Furthermore, he left open the possibility for Quito to join the Network of Tourism Observatories, comprising 36 cities from countries such as China, Greece, Croatia, The United States, Guatemala, Argentina and others; so that the destination can have more data on and awareness of the state and growth of world tourism.

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      Dubai launches 10-year strategy to develop sports sector

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      Dubai launches 10-year strategy to develop sports sector

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      The Dubai Sports Council has approved a 10-year strategy for developing the emirate’s sports sector, with plans to organise 3,000 local, regional and international events and host 1,000 international training camps as part of the strategy.Approved by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council (DSC), the strategy supports the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and aims double the contribution of the sports sector to the emirate’s GDP.
      He highlighted the importance of implementing initiatives to achieve sustainability in the sports sector, in line with the vision of the UAE leadership and the directives of the UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who announced 2023 as the ‘Year of Sustainability’.
      “The announcement by HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to make 2023 the ‘Year of Sustainability’ reflects the UAE leadership’s commitment to implementing sustainability-focused initiatives that seek to ensure a better tomorrow for future generations,” Sheikh Mansoor said as he chaired the meeting of DSC.
      “In line with the directives of the UAE President, we remain committed to promoting sustainability in the sports sector.”
      The meeting, held at the Council’s headquarters, was attended by Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the DSC; Lieutenant General Abdulla Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police and Member of the DSC’s Board of Directors; and Board Members: Hala Badri, Sami Al Qamzi, Moaza Al Marri, Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the DSC, and Nasser Aman Al Rahma, Assistant Secretary General of the DSC.ADVERTISEMENTSheikh Mansoor said that 2023 will see the launch of several initiatives that will enhance the performance of the sector and its contribution to the city’s GDP. These initiatives will also reinforce Dubai’s status as a key destination for global sporting events, tournaments, and training camps. The year 2023 will build on the success of 2022, which saw the launch of several global tournaments including the Dubai Super Cup and the World Tennis League, His Highness added.
      He also issued directives to increase the number of sports events held annually in Dubai to 500. Progressively, this will be increased to 1,000 events annually, as per the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
      “The new 2023-2033 strategy announced by the Council will seek to enhance the role of the sports sector in realising the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). The strategy will also contribute to raising Dubai’s profile as a global sporting destination and a hub for attracting talent,” Sheikh Mansoor said.
      The strategy includes a number of initiatives and programmes that seek to keep pace with global developments in the sector.
      “The key objectives of the strategy include raising the contribution of the sports sector to Dubai’s GDP from 2% to 4% annually, organising 3,000 local, regional and international events and hosting 1,000 international training camps. The strategy also aims to increase the percentage of sporting events hosted in partnership with the private sector to 90%,” he added.
      Sheikh Mansoor also issued directives to develop incentives for promoting sports in collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). He also issued directives to launch an award for recognising schools that have implemented measures to enhance the health and wellbeing of students through sports.
      The meeting also discussed policies aimed at attracting athletes to Dubai clubs and reviewed the calendar of events and tournaments that Dubai will host in 2023.
      The new strategy includes five pillars:
      •  Shaping a new future for sports by developing solutions focused on e-sports, the metaverse and artificial intelligence.•  Raising Dubai’s sustainability as a global sports destination and the contribution of sports to local GDP.•  Making sports accessible to all members of the community.•  Providing a conducive environment for attracting athletes.•  Establishing an integrated and interconnected digital institutional system that ensures comprehensive governance of the sports sector.
      Source: TradeArabia News Service

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      SPRING BREAK EXPECTED TO BE BUSIER THAN LAST YEAR, WITH SEARCHES UP 40% More

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      SPRING BREAK EXPECTED TO BE BUSIER THAN LAST YEAR, WITH SEARCHES UP 40%

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      According to the latest data from leading travel app Expedia®, travelers are already planning their spring getaways, eyeing everything from Caribbean beach escapes to Alaskan cruises.Flight searches for March and April travel are up 40%1 compared to the same time frame last year, with interest in international destinations like Punta Cana, Paris and Tokyo up double-digits compared to Spring Break 2022. While average ticket prices are higher than last year, price-conscious travelers will still find savings by avoiding the busiest travel dates, choosing less crowded destinations and taking advantage of package discounts. Despite the rising cost of airfare, it is still possible to plan a spring getaway that doesn’t break the bank. Heading to a city destination will be cheaper – and likely less crowded – than a trip to an international beach resort. Regardless of the destination, travelers can stretch their dollars by following these tips:
      Avoid peak dates in order to save: According to booking data, traveling during the first week of March (before March 9) or after April 16 will allow travelers to take advantage of the lowest airfares of the season. The busiest travel days during the period are March 10–11, and the priciest are Saturdays, March 25 and April 1.Depart on a weekday: During the spring travel period, travelers can save an average of more than 20% on round-trip airfare when departing on a Tuesday instead of a Saturday, plus enjoy shorter lines at the airport.Take advantage of pre-summer shoulder season: After mid-April, average ticket prices are expected to stabilize before the summer travel season ramps up. For those with flexible schedules, late April to mid-May is a great time to head to Europe or enjoy a domestic city escape at a lower price.Find the sweet spot: In most cases, booking about a month before domestic flights helps travelers save money on airfare, but when in doubt it’s wise to set up price alerts as soon as there’s a destination in mind. The Price Tracking and Prediction feature on the Expedia app uses machine learning to predict the best time to book and notifies travelers when flight prices drop.*How to Save on Lodging and Car Rental
      Lodging and car rental rates remain relatively flat2 compared to Spring Break 2022. Savvy travelers can use these tips to score more value:
      Book accommodations 30–45 days out: While around 64% of spring breakers tend to lock in hotels 90+ days in advance, the ones who wait tend to get better deals. Expedia lodging data shows that, historically, booking hotels closer to a month out yields savings of around $30 per night.2Snag package savings: Bundling flights, hotel and car rental together on the Expedia app saves travelers an average of around 10%, or $300, and makes trip-planning easier.**Compare pick-up spots: Expedia data shows rates near cities tend to be cheaper than the average while rates near national parks and ski destinations are among the priciest.2 Off-airport lots can also be cheaper than picking up at the airport due to lower operating costs, so it pays to shop around.Spring Break Destination Guide
      Travelers seek to broaden their horizons this year, causing international beach destinations like Puerto Vallarta (+25%) and Punta Cana (+30%), along with culture capitals like Rome (+20%), Paris (+50%) and Tokyo (+55%) to see major spikes in flight searches.1 ADVERTISEMENTSpring breakers looking to stay closer to home but avoid busy beach destinations are flying to their favorite big North American cities including New York City (+5%) and Montreal (+40%) or unplugging in nature in places like Banff National Park (+40%) and Jackson Hole (+60%).1 Cruises are also picking up steam for spring break. Demand for spring cruises to Alaska, for example, is up nearly 25% compared to the same time frame last year while demand for European cruises gains momentum going into the summer.3
      Still need help figuring out where to go this spring? Expedia’s experts rounded up ten places to visit, including exciting domestic hotspots with airfare (ATP) under $350 and international bucket-list destinations under $700. Hotel prices (ADR) at these destinations remain under $350 per night.2
      Fort LauderdaleTorontoLos AngelesNew York CityPortlandSan JuanPhuketCopenhagenLisbonReykjavik

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      THE YEAR OF CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

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      THE YEAR OF CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

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      When Cirque du Soleil created its first permanent Las Vegas production with Mystère™ at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino in 1993, founder Guy Laliberté said his fledgling circus troupe wanted to “grow a flower in the desert.” Safe to say that flower became a bouquet even he couldn’t have imagined.
      This year, the world-renowned entertainment group will celebrate significant milestone anniversaries for three of its Las Vegas resident productions: Michael Jackson ONE™ at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino marking 10 years in June, “O™” at Bellagio Resort & Casino celebrating 25 years of aquatic brilliance in October and Mystère™, at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, the show that started it all, commemorating 30 years in December.
      “These three remarkable shows illustrate the creative diversity and staying power that has transcended through Cirque du Soleil since the company began,” said Eric Grilly, President, Resident Shows Division and Affiliate Shows Division at Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group. “Each of these productions remain as vibrant, inspiring and popular as they did when they debuted, and that is a true testament both to the creators and the cast and crew who continue to dazzle audiences from around the world each night.”
      Bobby Baldwin, former senior executive with Mirage Resorts and MGM Resorts, was a key figure in first introducing Cirque du Soleil to Las Vegas and said the impact of that partnership has forever changed what visitors expect from Las Vegas entertainment.
      “When we began our partnership with Cirque du Soleil, we had great respect for the creative ambition of Guy Laliberté, Gilles Ste-Croix and Franco Dragone,” said Baldwin. “There was never a question they would create a special entertainment experience, even for Las Vegas, where the bar is quite high. What they did was immediately change the entertainment landscape of the city. And then Cirque du Soleil did it again. And then again. And I don’t doubt they will continue to do so for decades to come. They made history, and it’s gratifying to have been part of that.”ADVERTISEMENTAs part of the year-long celebration, Cirque du Soleil is offering one lucky person a once-in-a-lifetime all-inclusive VIP experience for two in Las Vegas. The “Big 30” sweepstakes winner and their guest will travel like a celebrity via first-class flight and stay in a luxury room at one of Las Vegas’ finest hotels. The winner will receive VIP treatment with exclusive backstage access to all six Las Vegas Cirque du Soleil shows, and be transported to and around the Las Vegas Strip in a luxurious limousine from the moment the plane lands until the extravaganza experience comes to an end. For more details and to enter the sweepstakes, click here.
      Setting the stage for Cirque du Soleil’s overwhelming success in Las Vegas, Mystère has been seen by over 17 million fans with more than 13,000 shows performed since its first performance in 1993. The original must-see Cirque du Soleil production pushes the boundaries of what dreams and artistry can achieve when fusing together high-energy acrobatics with evocative choreography.
      Since opening in 1998, “O” has performed over 11,000 performances featuring breathtaking acrobatics under, on and above the water creating an unparalleled experience that engages the audience’s imagination and sense of wonder. The unique production that has been seen by more than 18 million fans delivers an innovative display of spectacular acrobats and artistic swimmers, including Olympians who perform 60-foot-high dives into a 1.5 million-gallon pool, taking the show to new heights night after night.
      Inspired by the King of Pop, Michael Jackson ONE premiered in 2013 and has been seen by over five million guests. The electrifying production continues to stun fans through a blend of dynamic acrobatics, dance, mesmerizing visuals and a state-of-the-art surround-sound theater immersing audiences into Jackson’s iconic discography.
      Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9136851-cirque-du-soleil-celebrates-30-years-las-vegas/

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