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      GNTO introduces sustainable content hub

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      The Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO), introduced its new sustainable content hub to the industry via two webinars, with panellists including some of the most senior figures in the responsible tourism industry. The webinars were aimed at inspiring and educating the UK travel trade and Greek stakeholders on their new, innovative green strategies and how they can work more closely with the GNTO.
      Hosted by Eleni Skarveli, Director of the GNTO, the webinars showcased the new sustainability content hub for the first time, which is set to launch on 5th October 2022. This will detail future green projects, sustainable initiatives, social sustainability and responsible holidays and act as an educational and inspiring platform for professionals and the trade.
      Eleni Skarveli comments; ‘As a country, Greece has always been green, as the way of life has been eating from the land and supporting the local community but we just haven’t tagged it as ‘sustainable’ until recently. As such, we have a good base to work from and have initiatives and an important strategy in the pipeline. We need the industry behind us to be able to offer visitors the greenest holiday options possible and to make Greece not only white and blue but also green. We hope the new hub shows how tourism businesses can adapt and transform to offer a more sustainable product.’
      A number of Greece’s current pioneering initiatives that are to be included on the hub were discussed such as the smart island of Astypalaia, the exemplary eco island of Tilos, which is paving the way for future eco islands and the animal welfare work at the Arcturos Bear Sanctuary.
      A core green project for Greece is The Rhodes Co-Lab, developed in partnership with TUI Group and the Region of South Aegean. The aim is to develop Rhodes into an international beacon for the sustainable development of holiday destinations. The Co-Lab will work with the local tourism industry and international partners to find concrete solutions and develop and implement them on Rhodes.ADVERTISEMENTDimitris Maziotis, Advisor to the Greek Minister of Tourism, explained; ‘For us, sustainability was the way of living before tourism existed and now it’s a way of life in tourism with three out of four hotel owners considering sustainable practises as key for business. We want to position ourselves on the world map as models of responsibility and we feel we are already doing this with our initiatives in destinations such as Astypalaia.’
      The focus from a government perspective in the new roadmap to sustainable tourism is all about reducing the environmental footprint, whether that’s through environmental energy, sustainable practices, infrastructure or transport.
      In the private sector, Sani/ Ikos Resorts and Metaxa Hospitality Group discussed the inspiring eco-initiatives that are already firmly established within their hotels. This includes reducing energy consumption, food waste management programmes, growing their own produce and making sure that sustainability isn’t just another pillar in the operation of the business but the focus throughout, from hotel construction to operations and guest experience.
      On the tour operator side, the GNTO is already working closely with Intrepid Travel and Responsible Travel on incorporating sustainable practises into their packages. Both operators already offer a number of sustainable holidays to Greece, with both agreeing that customer satisfaction is driven by the responsibility and sustainability of trips, which in turn leads to customers returning each year.
      The GNTO is encouraging of new tour operator partners as building a more sustainable tourism industry requires as many stakeholders as possible.
      The first webinar was aimed at the UK travel trade, moderated by Richard Hammond, founder of Green Traveller, and a panel consisting of Dimitris Maziotis, Counsellor to the Greek Minister of Tourism, Konstantinos Triantafillis of Metaxa Hospitality Group, Eleni Andreadis, ESG Executive Director of the Sani/ Ikos Group and Guest Speaker, Melvin Mak, TUI Group Head of Sustainable Business Transformation.
      The second webinar was aimed at Greek stakeholders and moderated by Susan Deer, Director of Industry Relations at ABTA. Panelists included Sonja Prvan, Contracting Manager at Intrepid Travel, Tim Williamson, Director at Responsible Travel and Carolyn Wincer, Commercial Director at Travelife as well as Guest Speaker Melvin Mak, TUI Group Head of Sustainable Business Transformation.

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      How the UK’s favourite holiday destinations have changed since 2019

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      The UK’s favourite holiday destinations have changed a lot since 2019, the last time most of us flew off on holiday. Two years of travel restrictions, lockdowns, and traffic-light lists have seen people change the holiday habits of a lifetime.
      As the first half of the year comes to a close and the summer holidays begin, Holiday Extras, UK market leader in holiday extras such as airport parking, airport hotels, airport lounges and travel insurance, analysed 1.8m trips booked in the six months since the start of the year to see which destinations had seen the biggest increase in popularity – the new hot places to go this summer.
      Here’s a round-up of the top twenty fastest risers for the first six months of the year:

      Simon Hagger, Deputy CEO at Holiday Extras, commented,ADVERTISEMENT“With all the changes to travel over the last three years it’s inevitable that travel habits have gone through some changes too.
      “It’s great to see the world open back up, and people are reuniting with friends and family in Australia, or heading out for long-delayed bucket-list holidays to Egypt and the Caribbean.
      “People who flew in 2020 and 2021 found themselves exploring new places because their old favourites were closed, and this year they’re going back again – hence the incredible rise in popularity of Greece and Turkey as destinations, both of which stayed open almost all the way through the travel lockdowns. And of course for many people the cost of living crunch means finding cheaper options, so some of the new top picks – like Turkey and Albania – are amongst the cheapest destinations for a budget summer holiday this year.”

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      Consumer expert Alice Beer shares tips to save money on travel

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      Consumer expert Alice Beer shares tips to save money on travel

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      Wyndham Grand Mirabello Bay Crete
      Millions of British households are facing a cost-of-living crisis with day-to-day costs rising at rates that haven’t been seen since the 1970s. With high inflation levels and increasing demand, going on holiday this summer is also becoming more expensive for many.
      Despite the increasing cost-of-living, according to a new YouGov* research online survey commissioned by loyalty programme Wyndham Rewards, 38% of respondents are still willing to dip into their savings to be able to go on holiday this year, showing that a long-awaited post-lockdown break is more important than ever. 39% of respondents also expect to spend more on their holidays this year than pre-Covid. While Brits recognise that they find it difficult to set a realistic budget for their holidays and stick to it (32%, increasing to 43% for respondents aged 25-44), 38% of those who go on holiday said they prioritise work and family commitments, rather than spending time planning their trips within the budget.
      Alice Beer says: “With the cost-of-living skyrocketing, being money savvy has never been more important. Saving doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, we overlook small but very important things that can make the biggest difference when planning your holiday. There are many easy ways to keep the costs down and make sure you can enjoy that well deserved holiday:
      Book as far in advance as possible – Last minute bookings are not as cheap as they used to be.Put the trip cancellation date in your diary – Ensure you know the cancellation terms and put the date your trip can be cancelled by in your diary. Then if your plans change, or you find something better, you can change your booking.Browse destinations where you can get more for your money –The accommodation is only part of the cost, consider the price of meals, activities and treats when you get there. Destinations such as Turkey, Portugal, Spain, Germany offer great value. Savings can add up if you are part of a hotel loyalty scheme – You will be the first to hear about flash sales and can get great perks ranging from special ‘member rates’ to early check-ins, late check-outs and room upgrades.Collect loyalty points when staying in budget-friendly hotels – You can save these points towards a free stay in the future. Loyalty Programmes are global, so a staycation, trip to visit family, or a business trip can all help you earn points towards a fabulous holiday abroad.For group travel, look at branded residences or apart-hotels – These accommodation types provide the facilities and amenities of a hotel and the confidence of staying with a well-known brand. At the same time, they usually work out cheaper per person and give you the freedom that comes with larger accommodation and kitchen facilities, so you can save on eating out.Once you have found quotes online, book directly on the hotel website – Large booking sites often charge a commission on the price and the hotel can sometimes offer you a better rate when you book direct, some hotels also provide upgrades, free drinks or other service perks if you book directly through their website or mobile apps giving you more value for your money. Hotel brand websites will also show you rates across their different properties, so if your destination is flexible you can search for the best deal for your budget whilst staying with the brand you know and trust.”
      When it comes to saving on hotel bookings, the results of the survey paint a mixed picture. More than one third (34%) of Britons who go on holiday prefer to save on hotels and use the money for other activities, with almost 49% of all respondents browsing online price comparison tools or travel agents (20%) when asked their top two methods to find the best deals. However, only 37% check directly on hotels’ websites to find the best deals. What is more, while many respondents find loyalty perks like discounted room rates (55%) and free hotel stays (46%) attractive, but only 20% actively use hotel loyalty programmes and associated benefits.
      Julie White, Vice President Commercial, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Europe, Middle East, Eurasia and Africa EMEA, commented: “Despite a challenging economic climate, after two years of missed holidays people are eager to make their summer trip work. Our industry is resilient, and it is our priority to help people get the holidays they deserve. Loyalty schemes such as Wyndham Rewards can bring significant savings, especially if you use them over time. From exclusive members’ discounts, flexible cancellation policies, ability to use points for hotels, as well as many high-street brands, there are many easy ways to make the most out of your trips. Being savvy with your booking can make all the difference and we hope Alice’s tips will help travellers make the most of their holidays this summer and beyond.”
      Wyndham hotels around the world participate in Wyndham Rewards, the world’s most generous hotel rewards programme with thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals worldwide. The award-winning programme gives more than 94 million members globally generous points earning and redemption options, including free nights at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally.

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      South Korea travel & tourism expected to create half a million jobs

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      The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed South Korea’s Travel & Tourism is expected to create nearly half a million jobs over the next decade.
      The forecast from WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Report (EIR), which shows an average of nearly 49,000 new jobs every year, to reach nearly 1.8 million by 2032, also reveals the sector will outpace the overall economy for the next 10 years.
      According to the report, South Korea’s Travel & Tourism’s GDP is forecasted to grow at an average rate of 4.8% annually between 2022-2032, significantly outstripping the 1.8% growth rate of the national overall economy.
      This will boost the sector’s contribution to nearly ₩116.9 trillion, representing 4.6% of the total economy.
      In 2023, the forecast from the global tourism body shows the sector’s contribution to South Korea’s GDP could reach nearly ₩83.4 trillion, only 4.7% behind pre-pandemic levels.ADVERTISEMENTLooking to this year, the global tourism body predicts the sector’s contribution to GDP is expected to grow 30.6%, to reach nearly ₩73 trillion, amounting to 3.5% of the total economy, although employment levels in the sector are set to remain stagnant, to reach nearly 1.3 million.
      Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “After the devastating impact the pandemic caused to South Korea’s Travel & Tourism sector, the future looks bright for the economy.
      “We applaud the government for easing of travel restrictions, a move that will no doubt have a positive effect and recover millions of jobs.
      “However, pre-departure testing in no longer required in many countries around the world and we urge the government follow the lead and allow travellers to move freely once again.”
      Before the pandemic, South Korea’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP was 4.4% (₩87.5 trillion) in 2019, falling to just 2.7% (₩54.2 trillion) in 2020, which represented a shocking 38% loss.
      The sector also supported nearly 1.3 million jobs in 2019, falling to just over 1.2 million in 2020, when the pandemic devastated the sector.
      However, due to severe and highly disruptive travel restrictions, the global tourism body’s latest EIR report reveals that 2021 saw a sluggish the recovery for the country’s Travel & Tourism sector.
      Last year, its contribution to GDP climbed by a mere 3% year on year, to reach nearly ₩55.9 trillion.
      The sector also saw a recovery of just under 2,000 Travel & Tourism jobs, representing a positive rise of just 0.2% to more than 1.2 million.
      The sector’s contribution to the economy and employment could have been higher if it were not for the impact of the Omicron variant, which led to the recovery faltering around the world, with many countries reinstating severe travel

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      South Africa travel & tourism growth to outpace national economy

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      The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the South African Travel & Tourism’s GDP will drive the national economic recovery over the next decade.
      The forecast from WTTC’s Economic Impact Report (EIR) shows the South African Travel & Tourism sector is forecasted to grow at an average rate of 7.6% annually over the next decade, significantly outstripping the 1.8% growth rate of the country’s overall economy.
      By 2032, the sector’s contribution to GDP could reach more than ZAR 554.6 billion (7.4% of the total economy), injecting nearly ZAR 287 billion into the national economy.
      The sector is also expected to create more than 800,000 jobs over the next decade, to reach more than 1.9 million by 2032.
      Although the data reveals a bright future for South Africa’s Travel & Tourism sector, the recovery was seriously hampered after the detection and surge of the Omicron variant.  ADVERTISEMENTMany countries around the world placed severe and damaging restrictions on African countries, which caused even further damage to those economies and put thousands more livelihoods at risk.
      By the end of this year, Travel & Tourism’s contribution to GDP is expected to grow 37.2% year on year, to nearly ZAR 268 billion (4.3% of total economy).
      Employment in the sector is set to grow by 3.8%% to reach more than 1.1 million jobs.
      Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Although the future looks bright for the South African Travel & Tourism sector, the recovery this year will be slower than expected.
      “Knee-jerk travel restrictions imposed over South Africa and other African destinations were impulsive and unjustified. Instead of punishing, these countries should have been praised for discovering the variant early.
      “However, with GDP contribution and jobs on the rise, the long-term forecast looks very positive.”
      In 2019, the South African Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP as a share of total economy was 6.4% (ZAR 405.2 billion), falling to just 3.1% (ZAR 180 billion) in 2020, which represented a staggering 55.6% loss.
      The sector also supported more than 1.5 million jobs across the country, before suffering a 29.9% drop, falling to just over one million.
      WTTC’s latest EIR report also reveals that 2021 saw the beginning of the recovery for South Africa’s Travel & Tourism sector.
      Last year, its contribution to GDP climbed 8.4% year on year, to reach just over ZAR 195 billion.
      The sector also saw a recovery of 20,000 Travel & Tourism jobs, representing a 1.9% rise to reach almost nearly 1.1 million.

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      Saudi Arabia tourism to see fastest growth in Middle East

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      The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the travel and tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is expected to grow at an average of 11% annually over the next decade, making it the fastest growing travel and tourism in the Middle East.
      According to the forecast from WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Report (EIR), this annual growth, more than six times the 1.8% growth rate of the country’s overall economy, will bolster the economic recovery of the Kingdom.
      By 2032, the travel and tourism sector’s contribution to GDP could reach nearly SAR 635 billion, representing 17.1% of the total economy.
      The forecast also reveals travel and tourism employment could double over the next 10 years, creating more than 1.4 million jobs, to reach almost three million employed within the sector by 2032.
      The projections for both employment and the sector’s contribution to the Kingdom’s economy, surpass the ambitious goals set out by the government’s Vision 2030 strategic framework.ADVERTISEMENTBy 2023, following two years of heartache, Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to the national economy could surpass pre-pandemic levels, when it is projected to rise 2% above 2019 levels, to reach nearly SAR 297 billion.
      Employment in the sector could also exceed 2019 levels by 14.1%, creating more than 223,000 additional jobs, representing nearly more than 1.8 million by the end of next year.
      By the end of this year, the sector’s contribution to GDP is expected to grow 15.2% to nearly SAR 223 billion, amounting to 7.2% of the total economic GDP, while employment in the sector is set to grow by 16.1% to reach more than 1.5 million jobs.
      According to the global tourism body, the Kingdom, due to host WTTC’s 22nd Global Summit in Riyadh from 28 November to 1 December this year, is witnessing a faster than average recovery following the government’s total commitment to the Travel & Tourism sector, ensuring it remained at the forefront of the global agenda.
      Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Throughout these difficult times for our sector, the Saudi Arabia government has recognised the importance of travel and tourism and has led the world in its recovery. Through his leadership, Travel & Tourism will become a driving force of the Saudi Arabian economy and will surpass the goals set out in its Vision 2030 blueprint.
      “I would like to commend Ahmed Al Khateeb, who has shown strong leadership during this crisis which has boosted the sector’s growth with unprecedented investments and new approaches to tourism.
      “I am delighted the Kingdom is hosting our 22nd Global Summit, where we will be able to continue our efforts of showcasing the importance of the travel and tourism sector and look ahead to the future of travel.”
      Before the pandemic, Saudi Arabia’s Travel & Tourism total contribution to GDP was 9.7% (SAR 291.6 billion) in 2019, falling to just 6.6% (SAR 190.6 billion) in 2020, representing a staggering 34.6% loss.
      The sector also supported nearly 1.6 million jobs, before an almost complete halt to international travel which resulted in a loss of 350,000 (22.2%), to reach just over 1.2 million in 2020.

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      Latest phase of #DubaiDestinations campaign kicks off

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      The latest phase of the #DubaiDestinations campaign, focused on highlighting the city’s exceptional summer experiences, has kicked off, inviting local and international audiences to enjoy an epic summer in the emirate.
      Running till the end of August, the new campaign encourages residents and travellers to discover the city’s diverse leisure, dining, adventure and family-friendly activities that make Dubai a one-of-a-kind summer destination.
      Aligned with the vision of Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to make Dubai the world’s best city to live and visit, the #DubaiDestinations initiative was launched in December 2021.
      The start of the latest phase of the campaign was marked by the release of two interactive #DubaiDestinations summer guides focused on children’s activities. The first guide lists a vast range of indoor destinations for children and adults who want to rediscover their inner child. From having breakfast with penguins and riding on giant rollercoasters to painting up a storm in art cafes, the activities featured in the guide offer something for all children. The list covers activities offered at 115 destinations spread across malls, retail complexes, theme parks, beaches and esplanades, among other locations, making it a handy reference for families to plan their leisure activities during the Eid-Al-Adha holidays and the rest of the summer season.  A total of 20 theme parks and 28 retail complexes are covered by the guide. The second guide features a list of around 40 exciting summer camps for children that will enable them to challenge themselves, forge new friendships and pick up a new skills. The release of the guides coincides with the start of school summer holidays.
      Available in both English and Arabic, the guides can be accessed on Brand Dubai’s digital platforms including its website www.branddubai.ae, and its Instagram account @branddubai.ADVERTISEMENTShaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, said: “The latest phase of the #DubaiDestinations campaign invites local and global audiences to explore the unique destinations, hidden gems and exciting activities that make the emirate one of the world’s most popular destinations. We are releasing a series of interactive guides designed to help people learn more about Dubai’s top-rated experiences during the summer. The campaign is being implemented by Brand Dubai in cooperation with other government entities, industry stakeholders from both the public and private sector and the creative media community. We seek to tap the power of collaborative storytelling to further raise Dubai’s profile as the world’s best place to live and visit.”
      Vast range of indoor attractionsTop summer attractions in Dubai include indoor theme parks like IMG Worlds of Adventure and Dubai Parks and Resorts, where the entire family can go on adrenalin-pumping thrill rides, meet their favourite superheroes and cartoon characters, get up close and personal with dinosaurs and mythical creatures, and splash their way through water slides and tunnels, in addition to enjoying live entertainment, delectable food and play areas.
      This summer, children also wouldn’t want to miss out on Modesh World, one of the region’s best summer indoor entertainment facilities, offering a multitude of activities catering to families and children featuring new Modesh and Dana experiences including mall appearances, stage shows and much more. For those looking to enjoy the natural world in an indoor location, the Dubai Butterfly Garden, the “world’s largest covered butterfly garden” gives children the opportunity to spend time in climate-controlled domes housing 15,000 butterflies of over 50 varieties. Other popular destinations covered by the guide include the Dubai Indoor Kartdrome Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and the Dubai Dolphinarium.
      Upcoming #DubaiDestinations guides, set to be released later during the campaign, will help people discover many attractions in the emirate covering exciting summer and weekend activities, seaside dining options, and other businesses running exciting programmes during the season. Brand Dubai will be partnering with several content creators and influencers to develop videos and promotional content that highlight the top activities, experiences and events in the city and where to find them. The latest phase of the #DubaiDestinations campaign coincides with the Dubai Summer Surprises.
      The campaign is being rolled out over digital, broadcast, print and outdoor media to ensure it reaches large sections of local and international audiences. Key partners in the #DubaiDestinations campaign include: the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai; Dubai Municipality; the Roads and Transport Authority; the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; Dubai Sports Council; Dubai Ladies Club; Emaar; Dubai Holding; Nakheel Properties; Majid Al Futtaim Group; and Merex Investment Office.

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      Peace and international solidarity celebrated as Global Youth Tourism Summit ends

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      Peace and international solidarity celebrated as Global Youth Tourism Summit ends

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      The first Global Youth Tourism Summit concluded by showcasing the power of tourism for youth empowerment, international solidarity and peace.
      Drawing the landmark event to a close, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili joined UNWTO Director for Europe, Alessandra Priante, in thanking the 130 young delegates for their active participation. Valeria Mazza, UNWTO Ambassador for Responsible Tourism and the ‘godmother of GYTS’, also urged the participants, who came from 59 countries, to “follow their own paths in life” and to serve as advocates for tourism themselves as they return to their home communities.
      Following this the Ukrainian National Folk Ensemble “Veryovka”, directed by maestro Carlo Ponti Jr, performed for an audience of high-level guests including the Ambassador of Ukraine to Italy, Mr Yaroslav Melnyk, the UN’s envoy for youth, Jayathma Wickramanayake, UNWTO Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism, Didier Drogba, Minister of Tourism of the Maldives, Abdulla Mausoom, and founder of the Small World Foundation, Ms Salam Hamzeh Ghaith. 
      Finally, in an act of solidarity, the night ended with presentations to organisations which are performing goodwill and charitable work, namely the Los Angeles Virtuosi, the MSC Foundation, Didier Drogba Foundation, Pokrova Association, and finally the UEFA Foundation.

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