More stories

  • in

    UN Tourism Secretary-General Outlines Plans to Boost Job Creation in the Caribbean

    UN Tourism Secretary-General, His Excellency Zurab Zurab Pololikashvili addresses the 2nd Global Tourism Resilience Day Conference, emphasising the need for increased focus to be placed on boosting job creation and sustainable investments aimed at building tourism resilience, especially for small countries.
    UN Tourism Secretary-General H.E. Zurab Pololikashvili has outlined plans to boost job creation and investment in the Caribbean’s tourism industry. Mr. Pololikashvili was a keynote speaker during the just concluded 2nd Global Tourism Resilience Day Conference at the Montego Bay Convention Centre.Underscoring the importance of building the resilience of tourism in the Caribbean, he stated: “We need presence; we need to support families whose income is only from tourism and agriculture, and fishing.” That’s why, he said, with the support of ministers present, “I promise all Jamaicans and all Caribbeans that we’ll be here talking about how to develop the tourist industry and how to create new jobs.”
    The Secretary-General underscored that jobs were crucial, as well as education, stressing that UN Tourism would be focussing more on job creation and investments. He added that: “We need more money here, more foreign direct investments in the region.” While promising that more would come, he warned that “it’s not easy, it takes time.”
    The conference was jointly organised by the Ministry of Tourism, UN Tourism (formerly the United Nations World Tourism Organization, UNWTO), and the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC), which is being rebranded as the Global Tourism Resilience Centre (GTRC),  under the theme, “Navigating the Future of Tourism Resilience.”
    Also speaking at the event, which ran from February 16-17, Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett said “understanding the impact and the role that tourism is going to play in how the world changes and morphs into the future is important for us as we try to bring the next generation into an understanding of this great economic activity called tourism.”
    Underscoring the importance of the industry, Mr. Bartlett said it was now regarded as one of the fastest ways of transferring wealth, arguably from the rich to the poor.ADVERTISEMENT“So, tourism, in that space, has now become the main driver of this process of building capital across the world, and the value of tourism is that it is not really extracted. It can be but it is not; it adds value every step of the way and it encourages creativity and innovation,” he said.
    Minister Bartlett also posited that tourism responded to the demands of people in a holistic way “so that anyone and almost everyone, can benefit from tourism activity.”

    Older
    Inclusive Morocco’s trips to empower and support women for International Women’s Day and beyond

    Newer
    Luxury travel company andBeyond has announced the extension of its South America portfolio More

  • in

    Inclusive Morocco’s trips to empower and support women for International Women’s Day and beyond

    Inclusive Morocco, the first LGBTQ-founded and led luxury travel company in Morocco is proud to share its suggestions for celebrating International Women’s Day with substance this year, thanks to their support of female communities across Morocco. From artisanal collectives to female-led workshops and social enterprises, support for women threads through all of Inclusive Morocco’s trips and itineraries. Here, they have picked out their top choices for supporting and celebrating women across Morocco.
    Artisanal creators and beauty workshops
    Guests of Inclusive Morocco are always encouraged to immerse themselves fully into the traditions and heritage of the destination, and nothing reflects the history of Moroccan craft than the Anou Cooperative.
    The Anou Cooperative is a collective of more than 600 Moroccan artisans, more than 90% of whom are women. Guests can participate in their workshops to understand and try their hand at some of Morocco’s best-known crafts, such as a weaving workshop in the medina of Fes. The artisans themselves earn 80% of the goods sold, and the remaining 20% is invested back into the community for training and employment to ensure a future for the craft and the women who specialise in it.
    For guests more interested in the art of beauty, Inclusive Morocco also organise hands-on beauty secrets workshops in Fes. Given this is a traditionally female space, guests will naturally work with women in these workshops, gaining a deeper understanding of aromatherapy and other holistic beauty techniques, all while supporting these women and their trade.ADVERTISEMENTInspiring collectives and cooperatives
    Guests of Inclusive Morocco will also get the opportunity to experience much larger projects during many of their itineraries. As part of the Echoes of the Atlas trip, guests stay overnight in Tizkmoudine village, the first regenerative hospitality project in Africa, created collaboratively by 700’000 Heures Impact and The Global Heritage Foundation. The site is fully run by women who also run a cooperative on-site using sustainable weaving techniques to create uniquely designed yet traditional items. Guests are encouraged to spend quality time with the women, meeting them over dinner to learn about their work and witness them performing their traditional heritage songs, before visiting the cooperative the next morning. This experience perfectly combines a celebration of Moroccan women’s heritage and tradition with an insight into women’s industry and craft in Morocco today.
    In Marrakech, many guests cite a visit to the Amal Centre as one of the highlights of their trip. The Amal Centre is a non-profit organisation and social enterprise, founded by Nora Fitzgerald Belahcen and Oumaima Outghouli in 2012 with the goal of empowering disadvantaged women through training in culinary arts and hospitality skills. The centre offers cooking classes, catering services, and a restaurant for visitors to enjoy delicious Moroccan cuisine prepared by the women who have trained there. The Amal Centre also provides literacy and language classes and supports women in improving their lives and becoming financially independent. During and following the devastating earthquake in 2023, The Amal Centre was pivotal in providing warm meals to affected areas and communities in Marrakech and the High Atlas Mountains.
    Guests booking with Inclusive Morocco can not only expect to be immersed in these experiences directly but can also rest assured that they are actively contributing to Inclusive Morocco’s support of every one of the women involved, championing them as leaders in industry and showcasing their inspiring work to the wider world.Visit www.inclusivemorocco.com for more information.

    Older
    ETIHAD AIRWAYS UNVEILS LUXURY NEW AMENITIES FOR GUESTS IN ALL CABINS

    Newer
    UN Tourism Secretary-General Outlines Plans to Boost Job Creation in the Caribbean More

  • in

    Stuart Greif joins InterLnkd as board advisor

    InterLnkd – the travel industry’s intelligent shopping mall partner and winner of the 2023 WTM and World Aviation Festival start-up competitions – has today announced the appointment of global travel executive and industry expert Stuart Greif on its board of advisors.The appointment comes just months after the start-up raised £1 million in a seed funding round led by Vanneck Ltd., to accelerate its growth and international expansion.
    In his role as a board advisor, Stuart will leverage his extensive industry knowledge to provide strategic guidance to the InterLnkd leadership team and identify new growth opportunities.
    With 30 years’ global experience focused at the intersection of travel, customer experience and technology, Stuart currently serves as Executive Vice-President of Forbes Travel Guide. In this capacity, he spearheads strategy, innovation, and operations across more than 80 countries.
    Previously, Stuart served as Senior Executive for Travel & Hospitality at Microsoft, and led J.D. Power’s Global Hospitality & Travel group. In addition, he played a pivotal role in the success of tech start-up – and now unicorn – Amperity, backed by early investors in Amazon, Facebook, and LinkedIn. He continues to actively engage in the travel start-up community as an investor, advisor, and mentor.
    Stuart Greif, board advisor to InterLnkd, said: “I love that InterLnkd is providing highly contextually relevant product offers post-booking from over 20,000 brands, bringing retail shopping into the travel post-booking process for suppliers and sellers of travel. The team has identified a multi-billion-dollar opportunity, of which the travel industry has barely scratched the surface.ADVERTISEMENT“No matter the type of vacation, Ski, Beach, City, Adventure or Golf, the industry is leaving significant revenue on the table, and InterLnkd has built a solution to capture that revenue and return it to the travel industry for free. I am excited by what the team has built so far for leading travel brands and look forward to supporting their global ambitions.”
    Barry Klipp, Chief Executive Officer of InterLnkd, added: “Stuart is one of the most recognised thought leaders in our field and a dedicated supporter of innovative travel start-ups. With his vast experience spanning top-tier consultancies, prominent tech companies, VCs, and private equity, he will be an invaluable asset to the InterLnkd team.”
    InterLnkd found the average traveller spends £270 on products across fashion, beauty, and essentials for their upcoming holiday. The UK start-up’s white-label technology enables travel sellers – including airlines, tour operators, and Online Travel Agencies – to earn a cost-free incremental revenue stream from these purchases.
    Thanks to its intelligent matching engine, InterLnkd seamlessly curates a personalised selection of products that align with a customer’s travel booking from over 20,000 brands.
    Last year, the company solidified strategic partnerships with leading travel brands including Thomas Cook, HolidayPirates, and LeShuttle (Eurotunnel).

    Older
    BEONx forges strategic partnership with webhotelier | primalres, leading travel tech group

    Newer
    ETIHAD AIRWAYS UNVEILS LUXURY NEW AMENITIES FOR GUESTS IN ALL CABINS More

  • in

    BEONx forges strategic partnership with webhotelier | primalres, leading travel tech group

    BEONx, a leading hospitality revenue management system provider, is delighted to announce its strategic partnership with webhotelier | primalres, a regional travel tech leader focusing in the Greek and Cypriot market but serving 17.400+ hotels and other accommodation providers in 38 countries. This milestone collaboration aims to revolutionise the revenue management landscape in the region, act as a catalyst for data-driven decision making, thus enhancing the profitability and efficiency of hotels and other strategic accommodation providers.
    The primary objective of this partnership is to deliver an advanced revenue management solution tailored to the unique needs of the Greek and Cypriot markets, bolstered by a dedicated local Greek support network.
    As such webhotelier | primalres will play a pivotal role in enabling BEONx to effectively reach all key accounts including over 130 hotel chains in Greece and Cyprus that stand to benefit from the implementation of an RMS.
    Right now, in Greece, where hotels command some of the highest ADRs in the region, technology-driven solutions are in high demand. Hoteliers are actively seeking innovative tools to further enhance their revenue management strategies and capitalise on the thriving hospitality market. BEONx’s partnership with webhotelier | primalres will provide Greek and Cypriot hotels with a comprehensive suite of tools designed to meet their specific needs.
    Panos Kontozamanis, CEO at webhotelier | primalres, expressed his enthusiasm for this pivotal partnership, stating, “Our aim is to provide a state of-the-art e-business ecosystem that assists our partners’ journey to digital transformation. BEONx is the world’s #1 sustainable profitability platform for hotels that goes beyond Revenue Management. We are thrilled to integrate BEONx into our ecosystem, thus offering our clients a robust and holistic approach to revenue optimization. Together with BEONx, we’re set to redefine the future of hotel revenue management in Greece and Cyprus, providing our clients with unparalleled insights and the agility to thrive in a dynamic market.”ADVERTISEMENTAdditionally, Rubén Sánchez, CEO and cofounder at BEONx added, “Our partnership with webhotelier | primalres represents a significant step forward for BEONx in expanding our global footprint. We are excited to collaborate with such a reputable player in the Greek and Cypriot markets. This alliance reflects our dedication to empowering hotels in this region with advanced revenue management tools and exceptional customer support.”
    BEONx is set to integrate seamlessly with key hospitality technologies. Thanks to this partnership, BEONx will be able to offer customer service support in the Greek language, ensuring that their clients receive the best possible support and guidance for their revenue management needs.

    Older
    Amadeus joins International LGBTQ+ Travel Association

    Newer
    Stuart Greif joins InterLnkd as board advisor More

  • in

    KSA companies tap into new markets and reach global investors with launch of MIPIM Saudi Club

    Businesses in Saudi Arabia can attend MIPIM – the world’s biggest, most influential real estate event – at special rates, with exclusive benefits through the MIPIM Saudi Club, a new, independent platform designed to foster networking, learning, partnerships and collaborations between KSA and international companies.MIPIM Saudi Club enables KSA entities to tap into new markets and reach tens of thousands of global investors and decision makers at the event, taking place in Cannes, France, 12-15 March 2024.The brainchild of a group of seasoned, KSA and UAE-based business, events and communications professionals, MIPIM Saudi Club further bridges the gap between Saudi and global businesses, in turn encouraging more foreign direct investment into the country, by making MIPIM more affordable and more accessible. A MIPIM Saudi Club pass costs SAR8,500, which includes full event access, affiliate listing as part of KSA’s overall presence at MIPIM, dedicated meeting spaces, top-flight catering services, increased brand awareness and listing on MIPIM Saudi Club’s official channels. Passes are available until 28 February. MIPIM Saudi Club Co-Founder, Laura Martin, said: “MIPIM is the world’s leading event of its kind, bringing together more than 25,000 delegates, 6,500 investors and 300 exhibitors from 90 countries. With KSA’s unprecedented investment in infrastructure, real estate, tourism and hospitality, MIPIM is a golden opportunity for Saudi companies to get in front of the investors, decision makers and partners who can help turn Vision 2030 into a reality. “MIPIM Saudi Club unites our long-standing experience of working with companies in the Kingdom and wider Middle East with our extensive knowledge of the workings of MIPIM and many other leading global business events. We are proud be part of KSA’s future success by bringing this unique opportunity to Saudi businesses large and small.”For the third year in a row, KSA government entities, developers and projects are exhibiting at MIPIM under the Invest Saudi umbrella. Through the MIPIM Saudi Club, any company in the Kingdom can attend as a visitor or exhibitor. For information and updates, follow MIPIM Saudi Club on LinkedIn or email [email protected]

    Older
    Royal Caribbean Unveils Exciting Island Escapes for 2025-2026 Season

    Newer
    Amadeus joins International LGBTQ+ Travel Association More

  • in

    Shannon Airport Reports Record Growth in 2023, Eyes Further Expansion

    Shannon Airport had a strong growth surge in 2023 with 1.958 million passengers welcomed to the airport, a 29 per cent increase on 2022 activity. This strong performance saw the airport achieve its highest passenger numbers since 2009, 14 years ago, with growth in air services across all markets.
    Passenger numbers to and from Continental Europe rose by 41 per cent to over 748k; UK traffic increased by 31 per cent recording 838k, while transatlantic passenger numbers increased by 24 per cent to 296k. These results build on the recent publication of an independent report by Oxford Economics showing that The Shannon Airport Group delivers a major contribution of almost €4 billion (€3.96bn) to Ireland’s GDP, supports over 20,300 jobs across the Irish workforce, and contributes €643m in tax revenues.
    Commenting on the Group’s positive performance in 2023, Mary Considine, CEO of The Shannon Airport Group said: “These results are a testament to the hard work of our team across The Shannon Airport Group, the loyalty of our customers and stakeholders, and support from Government.
    “Shannon Airport’s temporary inclusion in the Regional Airports Programme helped us enormously to rebuild in the aftermath of COVID-19, and in 2023, much welcome Government funding supported our airport operation.
    “We have achieved much, but know we can achieve even more for our region with continued Government support. Ultimately, Shannon Airport’s permanent inclusion in the Regional Airports Programme will deliver economic benefits for Ireland, aligning as it does with the Government’s own ambitions for ensuring balanced regional development. We have been lobbying hard for this for some time and continue to do so as we await the outcome of the Government’s Mid-Term Review of the Programme due shortly.”ADVERTISEMENTShannon Airport’s service offering was boosted considerably in 2023 with new Ryanair services to destinations including Naples, Porto, Béziers and Liverpool, as well as additional capacity on some popular destinations, particularly during peak holiday times and school holidays. Another highlight was the launch of the new Aer Lingus service to the hub airport of Paris Charles de Gaulle.
    Transatlantic services at Shannon received a major boost in 2023 with the launch by United Airlines of a new daily Chicago service. Passengers can look forward to even more transatlantic services in 2024 with the return of the Delta Air Lines daily seasonal service from Shannon to New York JFK beginning in May this year. This will bring the total number of US services from Shannon to five.
    In addition to its airport operation, The Shannon Airport Group also owns and manages a significant property portfolio, which it uses to attract FDI and indigenous investment to the region. In 2023, The Group invested over €17 million across the Shannon Campus to provide property solutions for business and enhance airport facilities. Key projects undertaken during the year included the completion of a new €7.6 million 60,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose industrial unit, and a €6.2 million 40,000 sq. ft. R&D technology unit. The Group also completed a number of infrastructural projects at the airport, among these, rehabilitation work on an airport taxiway.
    In 2023, the Group continued to execute its Sustainability Strategy, successfully attaining Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 2 certification and is currently advancing towards Level 3.
    Implementing its strategy to reduce its energy consumption, the Group partnered with the ESB to complete a major lighting project. This initiative, involving the replacement of over 4,000 indoor and outdoor lights with cutting-edge LED bulbs, resulted in a remarkable two-thirds reduction in the airport’s lighting energy consumption.
    In addition, sixteen EV charging points were rolled out across the Campus, and eight electric vehicles were introduced at the airport as part of the Group’s commitment to transition its fleet to a low carbon alternative. The Group also unveiled a new five-year Biodiversity Action Plan. This comprehensive plan outlines a series of initiatives aimed at preserving and enhancing biodiversity across the Shannon Campus.
    Looking ahead, Ms Considine expressed confidence in the upcoming year; “We believe the year ahead will be positive. Our airport and commercial property activities create an environment that boosts economic growth and helps the region develop. Shannon was voted the best Irish airport brand in 2023 by Red C, and our customer focused approach will continue to be at the core of everything we do at Shannon Airport in 2024, as will growing our commercial property portfolio.”
    Ms Considine also highlighted the potential for the Shannon Estuary to become a major global hub for renewable energy, focusing on offshore wind energy. “The strategic location of Shannon Airport offers huge potential for the development of sustainable aviation technology and the production of green fuel for the aviation sector, as recommended by the Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce Report. We will continue to work closely with the Taskforce and Government to seize this opportunity,” she said.

    Older
    ANA Expands International Flight Operations from Haneda Airport Terminal 2

    Newer
    Royal Caribbean Unveils Exciting Island Escapes for 2025-2026 Season More

  • in

    Nexus celebrates remarkable journey of its 25th anniversary

    NexusTours, the leading Destination Management Company in the Caribbean, Central America, and North America, operating in 19 countries and 52 destinations, proudly celebrates its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter-century of creating unforgettable memories for guests and travel partners.This significant milestone will be commemorated with a grand celebration at the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun on Thursday, February 22, 2024. The event promises to be an evening of reflection, recognition, and anticipation for the exciting news that NexusTours is eager to share.
    In a statement from NexusTours’ President, Rubén Gutiérrez, he reflected on the company’s journey, saying, “Celebrating 25 years is a testament to the dedication and resilience of the entire NexusTours family. We are immensely grateful for the trust and support we’ve received from our partners, guests, and the community. This celebration is not just about our past achievements but also an exciting preview of the innovative initiatives we have in store for the future.”
    The event will be a unique opportunity for attendees to reminisce about shared successes, witness the unveiling of exciting news, and join NexusTours in shaping the next chapter of its journey. The Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun will serve as a fitting venue for this grand celebration, reflecting the company’s commitment to excellence and creating memorable experiences.

    Older
    ANDBEYOND AND QUARK EXPEDITIONS LAUNCH A TASTE OF THE WILD LIFE: A MASTERCLASS WITH KRIS TOMPKINS

    Newer
    ITB Berlin: Inspiration for a sustainable tourism industry More

  • in

    ANDBEYOND AND QUARK EXPEDITIONS LAUNCH A TASTE OF THE WILD LIFE: A MASTERCLASS WITH KRIS TOMPKINS

    Conservation-led luxury travel company andBeyond has partnered with Quark Expeditions to expand their operations to a fourth continent. Together, the partners have created A Taste of the Wild Life; A Masterclass with Kris Tompkins. Brought to you by andBeyond and Quark Expeditions, with Kris Tompkins, the 18-night land and sea adventure gives travellers an intimate glimpse into what is being done to protect the exceptional landscapes and wildlife inhabitants of Chile and Argentina, as well as the Antarctic Circle. The trip also offers an opportunity to gain first-person insight into the events described in the documentary A Wild Life, which tells the story of Kris and Douglas Tompkins and the contributions that they have made towards nature conservation in South America.The trip will be accompanied by Kristine (Kris) McDivitt Tompkins, president and co-founder of Tompkins Conservation, an American conservationist, and former CEO of Patagonia, Inc. Kris and her late husband Douglas Tompkins have protected approximately 14.8 million acres of parklands in Chile and Argentina through Tompkins Conservation and its partners, making them among the most successful national park-orientated philanthropists in history. Throughout the trip, Kris will share personal stories of the work that has gone into protecting and rewilding large swathes of the Patagonian wilderness. These will include a presentation on the efforts involved in the creation of a national park. There will also be a screening of the Wild Life documentary, followed by a Q&A session with Kris on her story.
    “We are thrilled to be working closely with other organisations that reflect our own values,” says Pedro Barraza, &Beyond Managing Director South America. “&Beyond has a long-standing relationship with Kris Tompkins and her teams, with our conservation experts from Africa having provided advice and support to both Rewilding Chile and Rewilding Argentina in preparation for their wildlife reintroduction projects. We also relish the opportunity to partner with Quark Expeditions, whose Polar Promise principles reflect our own motto of Care of Land, Wildlife and People.”
    “This new partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to go responsibly in all that we do,” says Thomas Lennartz, Vice President of Sales and Client Experience at Quark Expeditions. “We look forward to working with &Beyond to deliver awe-inspiring guest experiences in Patagonia and Antarctica, and Kris Tompkins’ expertise will be an incredible complement to the best expedition team in the industry.”
    The Masterclass itinerary kicks off in Chilean Patagonia at the Torres del Paine National Park, where travellers will immerse themselves in the work being done by the Cerro Guido Foundation to reintroduce and protect Chile’s most endangered species. Staying at the historic Estancia Cerra Guido, guests can not only learn the way of the land from local gaucho, who care for the farm’s livestock, but will have the unique opportunity for a first-hand glimpse of the conservation work being done to preserve the area’s rich flora and fauna. Accompanied by expert puma researchers and trackers, they will immerse themselves in activities that form part of this groundbreaking project.
    Those keen to learn more about the surrounding landscapes can also opt for a scenic overland excursion through Torres del Paine. Those in search of more physical activity can explore the region on horseback or spend the day fishing, while history buffs will enjoy the opportunity to tour an authentic Patagonian ranch, discovering ways of life and traditions that go back hundreds of years.ADVERTISEMENTLeaving Patagonia, the itinerary continues to Cabo Froward (Cape Froward), where travellers can explore the mountains, glaciers and forest of this exceptional landscape, as well as enjoy a taste of the rich and vibrant culture of Punta Arenas. Travelling on to Ushuaia, the erstwhile explorers are introduced to the Ultramarine, a vessel specifically built for exploration of the polar regions. Departing via the Beagle Channel, travellers will have the opportunity to photograph the area’s beautiful landscapes and sea birds before heading into the vastness of the Southern Ocean. Over the next three days there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the facilities offered by the ship and join in captivating presentations on photography, wildlife, glaciology and history. Explorers can while away the time by planning which of the included activities they would prefer to try first, from sightseeing from a scenic flight above the vessel to Zodiac cruises, hiking among some of the world’s most untouched landscapes, sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and more.
    As guests finally come close to landfall on the Antarctic Peninsula, Zodiac boats will whisk them away to explore majestic bays and channels, exploring penguin rookeries, scanning the horizon for humpback and minke whale, or keeping an eye out for leopard seals. Travellers can select from a vast array of additional adventures, all under the oversight of the dedicated Expedition Team, and drink in the magic that surrounds them, from crackling iceberg and glaciers to isolated research stations and vast, pristine expanses. Should conditions be conducive, the group will cross the Antarctic Circle and witness the midnight sun casting its ethereal glow on the icy landscape.
    Heading back across the Drake Passage, guests will enjoy some time to reflect on their once-in-a-lifetime experiences and on the new understanding of this largely unknown and unexplored region. There will also be plenty of opportunity to listen to more enthralling stories shared by Kris and the Expedition Team on board the vessel.    A Taste of the Wild Life: A Masterclass with Kris Tompkins runs from 25 February to 15 March 2025, and is available at a cost of USD 34,400 per person sharing with a minimum of 8 guests and with a maximum of 14 guests. The itinerary cost includes a group contribution of USD 10,000 made in support of the Tompkins Conservation Project Fund at Re:Wild. For more information visit andBeyond.com or speak to your preferred travel provider.

    Older
    Dubai’s Mr Toad’s carves out a cracking weekend double roast dinner and drink deal

    Newer
    Nexus celebrates remarkable journey of its 25th anniversary More