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    Chelsea Football Club Announces Hilton as Official Global Hotel Partner

    Chelsea Football Club has unveiled Hilton, the global leader in hospitality, as its official global hotel partner.The partnership will enable Chelsea Football Club and Hilton to provide extended opportunities for Hilton’s more than 158 million Hilton Honors members around the world in a new and unique way, while also serving as the official host to the Chelsea team on the road.
    As a pioneer in the industry for more than 100 years, Hilton will welcome Chelsea to its portfolio of hotels as the team’s official home away from home, starting with locations in the United States during the team’s summer tour. Recognizing how much it matters where an elite sports team stays ahead of key fixtures, players and coaches will experience and enjoy Hilton’s world-class service and hospitality.
    Building off its high-profile partnerships in the music, sports and entertainment world, Hilton Honors will offer a curated selection of one-of-a-kind experiences, which will kick off during this summer’s pre-season tour and extend into next season’s matches in London. Look out for the Hilton name at Chelsea men’s and women’s matches, and across Chelsea digital channels with special and engaging content for fans to enjoy.
    John Rogers, head of global partnerships, Chelsea Football Club, said, “Ahead of our exciting visit to the States in July and August for pre-season tour, we are very pleased to team up with such a prestigious name as Hilton for the future. We are proud to be the first football club to work alongside Hilton and look forward to rewarding their Hilton Honors members, and our fans, in innovative ways.”
    Stijn Bastiaens, vice president, strategic partnerships, Hilton, said, “We’re thoroughly looking forward to collaborating with such an esteemed and world-renowned club as Chelsea. Through the partnership we’ll be launching unique content and experiences to our Hilton Honors members, as well as extending the most welcoming Hilton stays to the Chelsea team while they’re travelling on tour.”ADVERTISEMENT

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    PATA Announces New Executive Board Appointments

    Picture: L/R: and Ms Noredah Othman, CEO, Sabah Tourism Board, Malaysia and Dr. Gerald Perez, Vice President, Guam Visitors Bureau, USA.
    The Pacific Asia Travel Association(PATA) is pleased to announce the re-appointment of Ms Noredah Othman, CEO, Sabah Tourism Board, Malaysia and the election of Dr. Gerald Perez, Vice President, Guam Visitors Bureau, USA to the PATA Executive Board for a two-year term beginning June 27, 2023.
    On the announcement, PATA Chair Peter Semone said, “I would like to first thank Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, Minister of Tourism, Republic of Maldives for his time and contribution on the Executive Board over the past two years. His support and experience were a great asset to us during a critical time for our industry coming out of the pandemic. I would also like to welcome back Ms Noredah Othman and welcome Dr. Gerald Perez to the Executive Board. Their proven track record and background will make them a great asset to PATA and our members.”
    With 30 years’ experience in Sabah Tourism, Ms Noredah Othman is the longest-serving officer with Sabah Tourism Board. She is responsible for marketing and promotion of the destination.
    Ms. Noredah Othman has held various positions since October 1990 and served as Deputy General Manager (Support Services) from 2016. Prior to that, she was the Senior Marketing Manager for the UK, Europe, Australia and the USA markets from 2011 to 2015. She was the Marketing Manager for the UK, Europe and Australia from 2005-2010.
    Ms. Othman, a mother of three children, completed her education in Singapore, started her career as tourist assistant with the Sabah Tourism Promotion Corporation (STPC), the forerunner of STB, in 1990. Between 1991 and 2005, she held the position of assistant public affairs officer and later as communications manager. Ms. Othman was awarded the PATA Foundation’s scholarship for Executive Development for Tourism (EDIT) Programme in 2015.ADVERTISEMENTDr. Gerry Perez is a dedicated and accomplished individual who has made significant contributions to various fields, particularly in tourism and public service. Born and raised on Guam, he graduated from Fr. Duenas Memorial School and went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Forestry and a Master’s Degree in Wildlife Management with honors from the University of Idaho. He also holds a PhD in Tourism Development and Public Policy from the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
    In his private business endeavours, Dr. Perez has demonstrated exceptional leadership and success. He retired in 2003 as a Travel Retail Executive, where he oversaw over 500 employees during his 23-year tenure. He is also the proprietor of Micromed Suppliers and has served as the General Manager of the Guam Visitors Bureau. Gerry’s outstanding business acumen led to his induction into the Guam Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame in 2017, and he represented the White House Business Conference as a delegate in 1994.
    With an unwavering commitment to promoting tourism, Dr. Perez has been actively involved in various organizations and conferences. He currently serves as the Vice President of the Guam Visitors Bureau and is a founding member of the Micronesia Cruise Association. As a renowned speaker, he has shared his expertise at international forums such as the Beijing International Forum on Chinese Overseas Travel and the SKAL Asia Tourism Congress. Gerry’s dedication to the tourism industry is further demonstrated through his memberships in the Guam Tourism Foundation and the Executive Board of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).
    Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gerry has been actively engaged in civic and government roles. He has served as the Chairman of the GovGuam Retirement Fund Board of Trustees and the Vice-Chairman of the University of Guam Board of Regents. Gerry has also held positions in organizations such as KGTF Public Television, the Bureau of Budget and Management Research, Guam Economic Development Authority, and the Department of Agriculture, where he worked as a Wildlife Biologist.
    Ms. Othman and Dr. Perez will join the other Executive Board members including Peter Semone, Chair, PATA; Benjamin Liao, Vice Chair, PATA and Chairman, Forte Hotel Group, Chinese Taipei, Singapore; Suman Pandey, Secretary/Treasurer PATA and President, Explore Himalaya Travel and Adventure, Nepal; Tunku Iskandar, Group President, Mitra Malaysia Sdn. Bhd, Malaysia; SanJeet, Managing Director, DDP Publications Private Ltd., India; Luzi Matzig, Chairman, Asian Trails Ltd., Thailand, and Dr. Fanny Vong, President – Macao Institute for Tourism Studies (IFTM), Macao, China, as well as non-voting members, Soon-Hwa Wong, CEO, AsiaChina Pte., Ltd., Singapore and Mayur (Mac) Patel, Head of Asia, OAG, Singapore.
    The new Executive Board members were ratified at the PATA Annual General Meeting held online on June 27, 2023.

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    The London Climate Week addressed climate challenges to transform travel & tourism

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    The London Climate Week addressed climate challenges to transform travel & tourism

    H.E. Gloria Guevara Co-Founder The Sustainable Tourism Global Centre (STGC) Chief Special Advisor at Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia
    Over the course of a week, industry leaders across the Travel & Tourism sector came together in London with the hope of creating a more sustainable future.
    In its fifth year, London Climate Week brought together the collective talent and initiative of participants to find global common solutions to counteract climate change and preserve the planet for future generations. This event offered a great opportunity to come up with real and tangible solutions to counter the greatest crisis of our time.It is vital we acknowledge the impact that the Travel & Tourism sector is having on the environment and commit to transforming it into a force for positive change.Events such as London Climate Week act as important platforms for strategic discussion and collective thinking between leaders from around the world, to implement action which can – and must – move to a more sustainable future and take that important step towards net-zero.Why is this so important? Travel & Tourism is responsible for roughly 8% of the world’s carbon emissions, so we bear a direct responsibility towards finding sustainable solutions for our sector. While Travel & Tourism brings people closer together, creates jobs, provides opportunities, and fosters cultural exchange, it has unfortunately also contributed to the current climate emergency.That’s why we must take this, and every opportunity, to raise awareness, initiate meaningful conversations, work on solutions, and inspire the next generation to drive significant and lasting change.Our world is facing numerous environmental challenges that are directly affecting climate, including deforestation, pollution, and biodiversity loss. The time for any complacency has passed. We need to work together to address these challenges now- and we must engage all those who have a stake in our future.The next generation will play a key role in shaping our path forward. Yet, data shows that 73% of young people feel they have insufficient decision-making power and the correct tools to make an impact on climate change. The same percentage also say they are extremely worried about the state of our planet. A platform is needed for the younger generation to share their thoughts and ideas to the world, so their passion and creativity can be used to drive positive change in the Travel & Tourism sector.We need to adopt a holistic and inclusive approach to tackle climate change from every perspective, including finding solutions to reduce emissions, reducing food waste, decreasing plastic usage, among the many other paths to push positive economic growth across the sector.While large businesses and destinations are key, we cannot forget small businesses, which are the backbone of the world economy. The 400 million small businesses globally, which account for over 95% of firms and 60-70% of employment, will play a pivotal role in achieving sustainability.In the UK alone, the country’s 5.5 million MSME’s account for 99% of all companies and contribute towards half of the UK economy. These businesses also account for 80% of the Travel & Tourism sector.Engaging with them and leading by example to show how to operate sustainably is absolutely essential. Yet, most still lack access to practical and easy-to-use toolkits which outline ways to conduct sustainable practices.That is where the Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC) steps in. It is the world’s first multi-country, multi-stakeholder global coalition which will lead, accelerate, and track the tourism industry’s transition to net-zero emissions, as well as drive action to protect nature and support communities.Launched in October 2021 and based in Saudi Arabia, the STGC will work with Travel & Tourism MSMEs, among other key groups, to enable their transition to sustainability, by offering accessible knowledge, actionable toolkits, and innovative innovation, to facilitate this critical change.The transition of businesses, large and small, to sustainable business models could open economic opportunities worth at least US$ 12 trillion and create up to 380 million jobs in the lead up to 2030 across sectors globally.The STGC will share best practices and provide timely solutions for Travel & Tourism to proactively tackle the climate and biodiversity crisis. In its initial phase, the Center will invest in research and development, showcase clean technologies solutions, and promote circular economy principles to contribute to a greener and more prosperous world.Our sector has a tremendous opportunity to drive innovation and foster collaboration to both inspire travelers and encourage stakeholders to embrace sustainable practices. And London Climate Week continues to be an incredible base for valuable discussion and catalyst for climate action; but as time is not on our side, the time for action is now.It is our duty to ensure travel becomes a catalyst for positive change, benefiting business, communities, and the planet. That’s why STGC is prioritizing sustainability to ensure it is integrated into the very DNA of travel. Together, we just might make the change our future depends upon.

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    Air Cargo Demand Remains Weak in May

    The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for May 2023 global air cargo markets showing weak market conditions.Global demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs), fell 5.2% compared to May 2022 (-6.0% for international operations).
    Capacity, as measured by available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTKs), rose 14.5% compared to May 2022, primarily driven by belly capacity which increases as demand in the passenger business recovers. Capacity is now 5.9% above May 2019 (pre-pandemic) levels.
    Key factors influencing demand includeThe global manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) indicates an annual contraction of 1.4% in new export orders and a decrease of 5.2% year-on-year in production PMI. This suggests a cooling in global manufacturing demand.Global goods trade decreased by 0.8% in April, due to macroeconomic challenges and supply chain constraints. Trading conditions appeared to favor maritime cargo as demand for container shipping contracted by 0.2% while air cargo demand weakened by 6.3% year-on-year.The global supplier delivery time PMI increased to 54.5 in May, up from its low of 35 in October 2021, indicating shorter delivery times and some relief for supply chains. However, this is also a sign of weaker global goods trade demand.“Trading conditions for air cargo continue to be challenging with a 5.2% fall in demand and several economic indicators pointing towards weakness. The second half of the year, however, should bring some improvements. As inflation moderates in many markets, it is widely expected that central bank rate hikes will taper. This should help stimulate economic activity with a positive impact on demand for air cargo,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
    May Regional Performance
    Asia-Pacific airlines saw their air cargo volumes decrease by 3.3% in May 2023 compared to the same month in 2022. This was a decrease in performance compared to April (-0.3%), mainly due to the stronger annual contraction in international air cargo demand from -3.5% in April to -6.4% this month. Available capacity in the region increased by 38.3% compared to May 2022 as more belly capacity came online from the passenger side of the business.ADVERTISEMENTNorth American carriers saw the weakest performance of all regions for the third consecutive month with an 8.1% decrease in cargo volumes in May 2023 compared to the same month in 2022. This was a slight improvement in performance compared to April (-12.4%).  Notably, airlines in the region saw the third month of double-digit contractions in volumes on the North America-Europe trade lane (-10.3%). Capacity increased 1.2% compared to May 2022.
    European carriers experienced a 6.7% decrease in cargo volumes in May 2023, compared to the same month in 2022. This was an improvement in performance compared to April (-7.7%), in part due to the smaller annual contraction in international CTKs on the Europe-Middle East trade lane, from -4.7% in April to -2.9% in May. The decline in international cargo traffic on markets within-Europe also improved from -16.2% in April to -7.8% this month (seasonally adjusted). Meanwhile, capacity increased 5.6% in May 2023 compared to May 2022. 
    Middle Eastern carriers experienced a 3.1% year-on-year decrease in cargo volumes in May 2023. This was a slight improvement in performance compared to the previous month (-6.7%). Capacity increased 15.6% compared to May 2022.
    Latin American carriers had the only positive performance in May 2023 posting a 3.6% increase in cargo volumes compared to May 2022. This was an improvement in performance compared to April (-1.6%). Capacity in May was up 14.7% compared to the same month in 2022.
    African airlines posted a 2.4% decrease in demand compared to May 2022. This was a decline in performance compared to the previous month (-0.9%). Notably, the growth on the Africa to Asia trade route slowed significantly in May from 18.5% in April to 11.0%, possibly due to the impact of the conflict in Sudan since mid-April. Capacity in May was up 9.2% compared to the same month in 2022.

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    SeaBubbles Launches France’s First Commercial Service of zero-emission ‘Flying’ Hydrofoil Boat

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    SeaBubbles Launches France’s First Commercial Service of zero-emission ‘Flying’ Hydrofoil Boat

    SeaBubbles, a leading innovator in sustainable marine transportation, announces the launch of France’s first commercial service of its groundbreaking ‘flying’ hydrofoil boat, the Bubble.Following the successful certification of the Bubble, SeaBubbles is thrilled to introduce this one-of-a-kind mode of transportation as part of a pilot line offering regular passenger service in collaboration with the Grand Annecy conurbation.
    The Grand Annecy, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and commitment to environmental conservation, has taken a significant step towards sustainable mobility by introducing an electric shuttle service on France’s prime lake site. The project aims to combine the region’s natural attractiveness with a responsible transport mix that includes the pioneering SeaBubble hydrofoil boats.
    With eight rotations per day for a period of two months, the initiative is projected to save an impressive 100 tons of CO2 emissions on the lake compared to traditional thermal boats. By incorporating electric shuttles, sourced from a consortium of local players, including the 4-seater SeaBubble flying bubble, passengers traveling on the line will have the opportunity to explore the wonders of the lake while enjoying a unique, silent, comfortable, and environmentally-friendly travel experience.
    The SeaBubble employs an electric propulsion system and hydrofoil wings to lift the vessel out of the water, significantly reducing drag and enhancing speed. Passengers can anticipate an exhilarating journey as they glide smoothly across the water, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
    “This initiative marks the start of a major new stage since the SeaBubbles teams joined our territory. We are committed to experimenting with next-generation solutions. This pilot project for carbon-free waterborne mobility is a source of inspiration for inventing tomorrow’s mobility solutions.” explains Frédérique Lardet, President of Grand Annecy.ADVERTISEMENT“With this new eco-friendly, zero-carbon shuttle service, we intend to offer users of the line and residents of the conurbation not only a different relationship with the privileged natural setting of Lake Annecy, but also future options for easing traffic congestion on the shores of the lake”, declares Virginie Seurat, CEO of SeaBubbles.
    By introducing the Bubble as part of a comprehensive transport system, SeaBubbles takes significant strides towards creating a cleaner and more efficient future for tourism and mobility.

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    Five museums you must visit during a cultural trip to Quito

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    Five museums you must visit during a cultural trip to Quito

    Quito is recognised for being one of the oldest cities with the most heritage in Latin America. Its rich history and cultural diversity have been preserved through the creation of a large number of museums ranging from pre-Columbian history to the present day.
    These museums offer a very rewarding experience. They provide a closer look at the culture and history of Ecuador, and also help to understand the importance and beauty of art, in an array of cultural richness and diversity.Detailed below are five of the must-see museums on a visit to Quito.
    1.    National Museum of Ecuador
    One of the most important museums in the country, it is strategically located between the north and the historic centre of Quito.
    It has a collection of more than 50,000 works ranging from pre-Columbian times to the present day. It has a room dedicated to contemporary Ecuadorian art and another for temporary exhibitions showing the contribution of local and international artists.ADVERTISEMENTThe building that houses it, the House of Ecuadorian Culture, is a neoclassical style architectural jewel, built in the 19th century.
    2.    City Museum
    It is a cultural space that presents a detailed example of the history, architecture, art and customs of the Ecuadorian capital.
    The museum’s permanent collection on the sociohistorical processes of Quito and its area of influence includes archaeological objects from pre-Hispanic cultures, colonial and republican paintings, old photographs and everyday objects that illustrate the life of the people of Quito from aboriginal times to the 21st century.
    The site has two terraces and a viewpoint freely open to the public from which they can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the historic centre.
    3.    Alberto Mena Caamaño Art and History Museum
    Also known as the “Wax Museum”, it is located in a historic 16th century building. It is a cultural institution dedicated to the preservation of the historical memory and heritage of Ecuador.
    It has a permanent collection that includes 307 oil paintings, 70 hyper-realistic wax sculptures, furniture, historical documents and archaeological items donated mostly by the philanthropist and aristocrat Alberto Mena Caamaño.
    Its most important museographic presentation is ‘From Quito to Ecuador’ which shows the events that occurred in the territory of the Royal Court of Quito that led to the formation of the Republic of Ecuador.

    4.    Casa del Alabado Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
    This is one of the most outstanding museums in Latin America for its pre-Hispanic collection. It is located in an old colonial house in the historic centre of Quito and contains more than 5,000 works of pre-Columbian art.
    It is a must-see both for history and archaeology lovers and for those interested in Ecuadorian culture.

    5.    Fray Pedro Gocial Museum
    Within the architectural complex of the Máximo de San Francisco Convent in Quito, which is one of the most important heritage buildings in the capital and the largest Catholic religious complex in Latin America, stands the Fray Pedro Gocial museum.
    It boasts one of the largest and most complete collections of works of art created at the Quito School (more than 250 examples). Those who visit this museum will be captivated by its beauty and history.

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    IATA Revises Hong Kong Aviation Recovery to Year End 2024

    The International Air Transport Association (IATA) welcomed the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) government’s efforts to ease the city’s labor crunch in the aviation sector.This comes as IATA upgraded passenger traffic projections for Hong Kong that now see a recovery to pre-crisis levels by the end of 2024. This revision brings Hong Kong’s recovery in line with expectations for a faster recovery in the Asia-Pacific region.
    “The situation is looking bright for Hong Kong. China’s earlier than expected reopening is providing a much-needed boost to the passenger recovery. By the end of 2024, we expect to see Hong Kong’s traffic return to pre-crisis levels. And it is encouraging to see the Hong Kong government preparing for this with measures to ensure that the workers needed to support the recovery are available,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
    The Hong Kong government introduced a labor importation scheme to ramp-up the airport workforce by 6,300 workers from the Mainland of China. While demand for air travel has been strong, airlines in Hong Kong have been struggling with supply chain issues and a labor shortage.
    “The last three years have been devastating for the aviation sector. As we look ahead to the recovery and prepare for future growth, it is important that the entire Hong Kong aviation community, including airlines, airport, regulator, and government, work together to address the challenges and are well prepared to tap on future opportunities. I look forward to being in Hong Kong in August to meet with various partners and engage in fruitful discussions,” said Walsh.
    IATA and the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) are partnering to organize the Hong Kong Aviation Day from 2-3 August 2023.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Spas of America Reaches an Impressive Milestone

    Spas of America, the leading spa and wellness travel website, announced its 900th spa listing, Spa Viata, situated within the scenic Texas Hill Country’s Hotel Viata Austin.Nestled amidst the picturesque beauty of the Texas Hill Country, Spa Viata provides a tranquil haven, offering a serene escape from the bustling atmosphere of one of America’s most sought-after and rapidly growing cities. Step into Spa Viata and surrender to a world of serenity and tranquility. Drawing inspiration from Italian spa traditions, the highly skilled therapists are poised to pamper guests with bespoke treatments to rejuvenate both the body and soul. Whether indulging in a soothing massage, a refreshing facial, or a luxurious body treatment, each experience is meticulously crafted to revitalize and renew visitors.
    Complementing the spa’s serene ambiance is Hotel Viata Austin, a boutique retreat that exudes comfort and charm. Its well-appointed rooms and suites provide a cozy sanctuary for weary travelers, offering a peaceful environment to unwind and recharge. With attentive staff and breathtaking views of the Hill Country, Hotel Viata Austin ensures that every moment spent within its premises is infused with warmth and relaxation.
    Spas of America President and Founder Craig Oliver says, “Austin is such an exciting and dynamic city, and we are pleased to feature Spa Viata as a premier spa and wellness destination for our audience. Their presence on our website benefits our existing spa partners and customers, providing another fabulous option for those seeking exceptional health and wellness travel experiences.”
    David Putniki, General Manager of Hotel Viata, adds, “We take immense pride in the exceptional experience our team at Spa Viata has created. Our spa perfectly complements the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country. We are excited to partner with Spas of America and showcase our special Austin spa and wellness experience to a broader audience across North America.”
    Hotel Viata is owned and operated by Pacific Hospitality, which also owns Aarna Spa, Pasea Hotel & Spa in Huntington Beach, and Spa Terra, Meritage Resort at Napa Valley. Both Aarna Spa and Spa Terra have been honored as recipients of Spas of America’s Top 100 Spas of 2022 accolade.ADVERTISEMENTFor more information about Spa Viata, please visit the Spas of America website at www.spasofamerica.com.

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