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    Two Scottish distilleries named as top attractions for 2024 at World Travel Awards

    The World Travel Awards – dubbed the ‘Oscars of tourism’ – have been announced for 2024 and two Scottish distilleries plus a number of hotels have triumphed.
    The Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery, located in Muir of Ord, has been named Scotland’s Leading Distillery Tour 2024 and The Glentlivet was named Scotland’s Leading Whisky Distillery Tour 2024.The Singleton of Glen Ord, which re-opened its doors in 2022 as part of Diageo’s £185-million investment into Scotch tourism, is a celebration of the best of Scotland and was created with the vision of not only honouring the slow-crafted single malt and its history, but also to give locals and tourists an immersive experience, where they can explore everything the Highlands has to offer.
    Sitting on the famous North Coast 500 route and accessible by bus or train from Inverness, the visitor attraction is known for working closely with suppliers from around the area to provide visitors with local produce, space for home-grown artists, as well as immersive and unusual whisky tasting experiences.
    The Glenlivet reopened its visitor centre in 2021 after a renovation by owners Pernod Ricard.The new space has a lounge area, bar, shop with fill your own bottle stations and archive area and has been designed to feel cosy and welcoming with a palette of teal, green, orange and neutrals that reflect the ever changing Speyside landscape.
    The Glenlivet was named World’s Leading Whisk(e)y Distillery Tour in the 2022 World Travel AwardsADVERTISEMENTThe Singleton Distillery was named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Icons of Whisky Scotland and World Whiskies Awards 2024 in December last year, as well as a Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award having been consistently rated by the public as a five-star attraction in 2023.
    Leigh Aitken, Brand Home Manager at The Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery, said: “To be named as Scotland’s Leading Distillery Tour by one of the biggest tourism award bodies in the world is such an honour.
    “Scotland is famous for our unmatched larder, scenery, and of course whiskies and in particular has so to come out on top of this category is testament to the versatile offering we have here, thanks to our team of whisky experts, bartenders, and local suppliers who each give us that extra something special.”Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh, another piece of Diageo’s investment into Scotch tourism was also awarded at the ceremony which took place in Berlin.
    The visitor attraction, which gained the title of the World’s Leading Spirit Experience last year’s WTAs was named Europe’s Leading Spirit Tourism Experience 2024, adding a list of industry leading accolades.
    The full list of Scottish winners can be viewed on the World Travel Awards website. www.worldtravelawards.com“As an official partner of the North Coast 500, and one of the closest single malt distilleries to Inverness we look forward to welcoming even more people into the Highlands to try out our award-winning whisky experiences.

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    CASA PALACIO DON RAMÓN WINS BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN EUROPE (WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2024)

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    CASA PALACIO DON RAMÓN WINS BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN EUROPE (WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2024)

    The Andalusian hotel group Kaizen Hoteles has shone at the World Travel Awards, known as the “Oscars” of tourism, held in Berlin, where the 5 Star Grand Luxury Casa Palacio Don Ramón has emerged as the best boutique hotel in Europe, beating a total of nine finalists.  The awards ceremony was attended by the director of Casa Palacio Don Ramón, Saray Castaño, the president of Kaizen Hotels, Marisa de Ázcárate and the director of Group Operations Almudena Moreno and director of Casa Palacio María Luisa.  Saray Castaño was especially proud that Seville has been recognised as ‘the elite, amongst the most exclusive tourism. This award is confirmation that our hotels in Andalusia are world-leading”.
    Receiving a World Travel Award means being at the top of the travel industry and specifically the hospitality industry. These awards were created in 1993 to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. Today they are recognised worldwide as the industry’s ultimate seal of excellence.
    Each year, the World Travel Awards cover the globe with their Grand Tour: a series of regional gala ceremonies to recognise excellence within each continent attended by key decision-makers, leading figures, influencers and industry media. At the end of the year, the winners from each continent face off in a Grand Final.
    Casa Palacio Don RamónHotel Casa Palacio Don Ramón 5* Gran Lujo has become a benchmark for the most exclusive tourism in the Andalusian capital.Opened in 2023, this is the luxury hotel chain’s first property in Seville with the aim of offering a higher degree of hospitality and excellence in the city. Located in the heart of the city centre and occupying one of the most emblematic buildings in the city – the former Casa Palacio on Calle Trajano, 2 – Don Ramón is presented as the most exclusive hotel experience that can be enjoyed in Seville. A building with a rich historical and artistic heritage, whose restoration and renovation has opted for the incorporation of the most cutting-edge and sustainable technology, including thermal and acoustic insulation, anti-humidity systems, silent air conditioning, aerothermal and geothermal energy, closed water circuits, aromatisation, multi-layered Climalit glass, and a radiant under floor heating system.
    Divided across three floors and with a layout that resembles that of an Andalusian manor house, the hotel has two interior patios with rooftop terrace and swimming pool. The 26 rooms and the common areas of Casa Palacio Don Ramón, including the outdoor swimming pool, the rooftop with spectacular views, the gym, the meeting room and the El Limón restaurant, are unique spaces, with a refined atmosphere.ADVERTISEMENTThe project, designed by the studio of interior designer Alejandra Pombo, is a journey through the different cultures that have inhabited the city over the years, from Al-Andalus to the Seville of the New World. An essence that takes shape through exquisite details and materials made by local artisans, such as wallpapers, upholstered furniture, tiles, grilles and the coquettish balconies present in some of the rooms.
    The rooms are divided into three categories: Arab, Mozarabic and New World, according to the prevailing decorative style, and to these we must add the Seville and Don Ramon suites, both on the top floor.
    Each of them is presented as a unique space – no two rooms are alike in the entire hotel – and where these three styles are perfectly combined with contemporary materials and inspirations.Along the same lines, the hotel becomes a museum through a tour of exclusive canvases and works of art from the collection of Marisa C. de Azcárate – owner of Kaizen Hoteles – and from the hotel’s own heritage.
    To complete the experience, Casa Palacio has its own restaurant focusing on local produce.
    Source: https://theluxuryeditor.com/

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    Multi-Generational Sardinia Escapes

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    Multi-Generational Sardinia Escapes

    Sardinia’s stunning landscapes and family-oriented culture make it an ideal destination for family holidays. With its extensive range of accommodation, Sardinian Places offers great options for multi-generational families in search of an extra special experience, creating happy memories for all ages.
    Among the tour operator’s handpicked accommodation collection are spacious villas with private pools, beach apartments convenient to shops and restaurants and family friendly hotels in sought after locations. With something to suit every budget and preference, along with a variety of flights into Alghero, Olbia and Cagliari airports, Sardinian Places highlights the following:
    Villa Tinnari – Isola Rossa, northern Sardinia – https://www.sardinianplaces.co.uk/villa-tinnari A collection of 10 four-bedroom villas with sea views, conveniently situated within the grounds of Hotel Relax Torreruja Thalasso & SPA resort in the picturesque village of Isola Rossa. The villas are within walking distance of shops and the beach promenade. Guests here not only have the privacy of a villa holiday, with a private pool, kitchen, living area and verandas, but they are also able to enjoy the benefits that the 4* hotel offers. This includes the use of its swimming pool and spa with heated thalassotherapy pools, outdoor fitness area, bars, and restaurants.  Ideal for families of all ages, each bedroom is equipped with its own bathroom. Additionally, two of the villas offer separate access from two bedrooms to the main villa, providing flexibility for grandparents or teenagers wanting their own space.
    Seven night packages start from £1,045pp, based on eight sharing, including flights and car hire.
    Villa Monica – Alghero, north-west Sardinia – https://www.sardinianplaces.co.uk/villa-monica Ideal for multi-generational gatherings, this expansive four-bedroom villa offers ample space for everyone to enjoy. With a ground floor bedroom and bathroom for grandparent convenience, an open-plan living area allows for easy togetherness, complemented by a well-equipped kitchen. Enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace overlooking the private pool and countryside, or opt for the nearby hotel restaurant for a different culinary experience.ADVERTISEMENTJust a 10-minute drive away, lies the historic town of Alghero with its winding lanes, piazzas, numerous eateries, ice-cream parlours, and shops to explore. The nearby beach, with its soft white sand and calm waters, is ideal for young children on a family day out.
    Seven night packages start from £599pp, based on six sharing, including flights and car hire.
    Villa Filippa – San Pantaleo, north-east Sardinia – https://www.sardinianplaces.co.uk/villa-filippaThis four-bedroom villa is nestled in the hills in the beautiful Costa Smeralda near the pretty village of San Pantaleo. The large private pool boasts breathtaking views out to the Gulf of Cannigione, while behind there are views of the spectacular granite mountains that Sardinia is famed for.
    The bedrooms consist of two doubles and two twin rooms with bunk beds, with one of the bedrooms set beneath the property and benefiting from its own private entrance. There are also three bathrooms, a large open-plan living area with a fully equipped kitchen, all enjoying understated and elegant décor and furnishings. In San Pantaleo, 2 kms away, there are shops, cafés, and restaurants, while the beach of Portisco is just 4km away, perfect for a family day out.
    Seven night packages start from £675pp, based on eight sharing, including flights and car hire.
    For more information about multi-generational holiday packages, visit www.sardinianplaces.co.uk or call 01489 866978.

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    Renowned Travel Journalist Doug Lansky to Launch Exclusive Interview Series

    Breaking Travel News is thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration with journalist Doug Lansky to launch a groundbreaking interview series focusing on service and hospitality in the travel industry. This series aims to delve deep into the minds of global thought leaders, providing invaluable insights for destinations, airlines, and hotels worldwide.
    Doug Lansky, widely recognized for his expertise in travel journalism and destination development, brings his wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront in this innovative project. With a career spanning decades and a portfolio of work featured in prestigious publications, Lansky is renowned for his insightful commentary and keen understanding of the travel landscape.The interview series will showcase in-depth conversations with prominent figures shaping the future of service and hospitality within the travel industry. From CEOs and industry innovators to renowned experts in customer experience, each episode promises to offer unique perspectives and actionable strategies for success.Breaking Travel News, a leading source of global travel industry news and insights, is excited to partner with Doug Lansky to produce this exclusive content. The series will serve not only as a valuable resource for industry professionals but there will also be a long-form version of each interview that will serve as a knowledge bank for destinations, airlines, and hotels seeking to enhance their service offerings and elevate the customer experience.
    The interview series will be available exclusively on Breaking Travel News, providing subscribers with access to unparalleled expertise and thought-provoking discussions on service and hospitality in the travel industry.For more information and updates on the interview series, visit BreakingTravelNews.com

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    Ryanair Extends Partnership with Vistair for Streamlined Operations

    Ryanair, Europe’s No.1 airline, renewed its partnership with Vistair, a market leading provider of advanced Operational Content Management and Safety Management Systems for the aviation industry, for a further 5 years. As part of this renewed agreement, Ryanair will continue to use Vistair’s industry leading document management system, DocuNet, to streamline the creation, distribution, and maintenance of operational manuals as the airline continues to grow to 800 aircraft and 300 million passengers by 2034.
    Ryanair’s Chief Operating Officer, Neal McMahon, said:
    “We are pleased to announce a 5 year extension to our longstanding partnership with Vistair. As Europe’s No.1 airline, Vistair’s reliable and efficient document management system, DocuNet, has helped us maintain operational efficiency and responsiveness across our vast fleet and complex operations. DocuNet continues to meet our high expectations, contributing to our ongoing strong operational performance ensuring that Ryanair remains at the forefront of operational and compliance standards as we continue to grow to 800 aircraft and 300 million passengers by 2034.”
    Dominic Clarke, Chief Commercial Officer at Vistair, added:
    “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Ryanair. The renewal of this agreement reflects the trust Ryanair places in Vistair and DocuNet. As Europe’s largest airline group, superior operational performance is paramount. We look forward to continuing to support Ryanair in achieving operational excellence and maintaining the highest standards of compliance.”ADVERTISEMENTIn January 2024, Vistair and Comply365 announced their merger creating a leading global provider of compliance, safety and data intelligence technologies serving the aviation, defence, and rail industries.

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    AdventureSmith Expands Sailing Routes for 2024

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    AdventureSmith Expands Sailing Routes for 2024

    AdventureSmith Explorations introduces a new sailing route in Indonesia, providing travelers with enhanced opportunities for immersive cultural experiences and wildlife encounters. Departing from Flores Island, the 9-day trip aboard traditional Indonesian sailing vessels offers a compact yet robust itinerary, featuring close encounters with Komodo dragons, whale sharks, and volcanic landscapes. A new sailing route in Indonesia offered by AdventureSmith Explorations, the leader in small-ship adventure cruising, is giving expedition travelers more opportunities to explore and immerse themselves in Indonesian culture and its distinct wildlife experiences. Aboard either the 24-guest Ombak Putih or 12-guest Katharina traditional Indonesian sailing vessels, the 9-day trip sets sail from and returns to Flores Island between April and August. The perfect introduction to Indonesia, the compact yet robust itinerary gets active travelers up close and personal with Komodo dragons, whale sharks and volcanic islands, while also connecting them with the people living and working in local villages.
    Featuring fewer full days at sea than other similar routes require, the new route allows for more time off the boat. That means more time in Komodo National Park, swimming along pristine coral reefs, exploring the site of a coral restoration teeming with fish and black-tip reef sharks, and experiencing volcanos, quiet coastal villages, bustling colorful markets, and more. The added flexibility of the itinerary and local knowledge of the ships’ experienced guides gets snorkelers in the water as much as possible to see the region’s iconic species like whale sharks, manta rays and sea turtles.
    “This new route gives travelers the convenience of not being required to navigate hotels or traffic in Bali, or a long day at sea just to get to where the trip’s adventures truly begin,” said Todd Smith, AdventureSmith Explorations founder and president. “For those who have dreamed about exploring Indonesia’s rich islands in an active and immersive way, the options to do so are extensive and customizable.”
    Along the new sailing route, travelers will have unique experiences including the opportunity to snorkel at the north end of Sangeang Volcano over underwater geothermal fissures that release gas bubbles into the water. They’ll also meet local heroes working to protect whale shark and coral populations, and have opportunities to support local businesses and villagers while traveling by traditional sailing ship.
    Naturalist-led trips are also offered twice annually along this route that are suited for families with children ages 4+. Educational, immersive experiences on these themed trips give kids and adults with child-like curiosity fun, memorable ways to explore Indonesia together.ADVERTISEMENTAdventureSmith also offers a standout 10-day Ring of Fire trip aboard Ombak Putih, noted for its access to more remote villages and its stop at a dugong conservation project. Launched in 2023, this trip accesses islands off-the-beaten-path east of Komodo National Park. Here, people are still living life on their own terms and making textiles and fishing using traditional methods. Extensive exploration of volcanoes, with a new one to wake up to each day, an opportunity to see historic Portuguese forts used in the spice trade, plus a free bar tab and hotel nights en-route make this trip a memorable getaway from start to finish.
    Separately, another new offering for 2024 will feature a special 7-night sailing on the August 10, 2024 departure of the Aqua Blu Komodo National Park Cruise. Hosted by Chef Benjamin Cross, this trip aboard a dive-equipped 30-guest luxury yacht, will include a culinary adventure featuring his signature recipes inspired by East Indonesia’s spice routes. Chef Cross honed his craft under some of the top icons of Australian cuisine and his restaurants frequently rank among the top dining spots in Bali.
    Learn more about AdventureSmith’s Indonesia cruise options, or contact their team of experts to find the best Indonesian cruise that suits your interests at adventuresmithexplorations.com.

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    Sailaway Launches World’s First All-Electric Tender & Glass Bottom Boat on Great Barrier Reef

    Advanced Eco Tourism and Climate Action tourism operator, Sailaway Port Douglas, this week launched the world’s first all-electric tender and glass bottom boat providing a “whisper quiet” sustainable experience for guests heading to the picturesque Low Isles on the Great Barrier Reef.The 22 passenger ‘eTender’ EV Discovery is 100% electric and is designed to operate as both a transfer tender and a glass bottom boat for coral viewing of the Reef’s rich underwater biosphere.
    Using the latest technology from Torqueedo (the global leader in electric marine power), the EV Discovery pairs 48v lithium-ion batteries with solar power to drive the vessel’s 12R outboards. Direct sun alone is sufficient to propel the vessel for glass bottom boat tours, offering a minimally intrusive experience for wildlife interpretation and marine life viewing. The vessel is a prototype for further e-vessel development.
    Developing the sea-worthy vessel with the highest eco credentials was a no-brainer for Reef operator and owner Steve Edmondson whose corporate philosophy is, “Its all about the environment.”
    “Low Isles was the first place for coral research in 1928. So the fact that we are operating the world’s first eTender glass bottom boat to this carbon neutral island is a nice addition to that record,” said Steve.
    “I like to think Sailaway is an inspiration for increasing awareness and appreciation of our fragile, yet beautiful natural environment. Successful Eco Tourism has the privilege to connect people together from around the world to natural attractions at a time when we all must strive to be kinder to our planet Earth of eight billion population.” ADVERTISEMENTHailed as one of the first Advanced Eco Tourism Operators and Climate Action Leaders in Australia, Sailaway Port Douglas has been offsetting carbon through contributions to local tree planting project Eco Shamba Tree Farm since 2013. Further to running a small fleet of luxury sailing vessels that focus on wind power, the company is now constructing another larger 30 seat AMSA NSCV vessel for Sailaway’s Outer Reef destination.
    Steve believes his developments are paving the way for future fully “off-grid” sustainable power boating to pristine environments including islands, environmentally threatened sites, small passenger transfers, dive and snorkel tender, birds and wildlife spotting, education and eco-tourism resorts.
    Sailaway’s 100% electric tender was designed by Sailaway’s Steve Edmondson and built by Ocean Blue Boats in Cairns and the expertise of Pasma Electrics. The eTender harnesses the latest technology from Torqeedo, the global leader in electric marine power. The fully electric Cruise 12R outboards and paired 48v lithium-ion batteries are perfect fit to operate in iconic natural locations.

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    Digitrips unveils ‘eco-certified accommodation’ filter to help travellers make informed decisions

    Digitrips, owner of leading French B2B multi-product travel platforms MisterFly and HResa, has enriched its flight booking engine with a new ‘eco-certified accommodation’ filter.The new functionality, now available to B2B2C partners as part of Digitrips’ hotel and dynamic package booking engines, empowers travellers to make informed choices and encourages responsible tourism practices.
    The feature already enables customers to narrow their search to eco-certified accommodation options in nearly 1,500 destinations worldwide, based on a variety of sustainable tourism labels recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
    Digitrips data shows accommodation options labelled as ‘eco-certified’ have seen a 9% surge in bookings on average since the label was introduced.
    Although so far only around 1% of Digitrips’ 1.2 million properties boast the new ‘eco-certified’ label, the tool has quickly become one of the most widely used filtering options across all Digitrips-powered search platforms.
    Emilie Dumont, Managing Director of Digitrips, said: “The launch of our new eco-certified accommodation filter is the latest milestone in our ongoing efforts to help travellers make informed decisions about their travel and accommodation options.ADVERTISEMENT“The new feature extends far beyond the realms of green marketing. It is a practical tool for our B2B2C partners and their customers alike, enhancing transparency and providing useful information during the booking process. Over the coming months, users can expect to see the new label appearing on more and more properties across our vast directory of accommodation options.”
    The new filter follows other sustainability-focused enhancements from Digitrips, including the addition of estimated CO2 consumption figures to its flight booking engine, as well as the integration of a unique direct flight calendar into its search platforms last month.
    Digitrips’ ‘eco-certified accommodation’ filter encompasses a variety of labels validated by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. This includes GSTC-recognised sustainable tourism standards owned by certification bodies, specialised tourism organisations, large tourism businesses, as well as municipal, provincial, and national tourism authorities.

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