More stories

  • in

    Auckland Airport Unveils Spectacular Football-Themed Welcome for FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023

    Ahead of the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™, Auckland Airport has unveiled its new-look International Arrivals area with a grandstand and mock football field to welcome players and fans, ahead of the tournament.Auckland Airport Chief Customer Officer Scott Tasker said they wanted to give players and fans a warm Kiwi welcome to the host city and create a moment that resembles walking out of a player’s tunnel and onto the pitch.
    “Welcoming sports heroes to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is something we’ve been really looking forward to, so we’re showing our support for this global women’s sporting tournament by creating an arrivals experience like no other. We can’t wait to see the teams start to arrive from next week and the community enjoying the space.”
    Kitted out with a 22 by 17 metre football field, people can get into the spirit of the event and welcome their favourite teams into the country.
    In addition, a giant ‘Game On!’ welcome sign will be painted on the grass at the Eastern end of the runway. Spanning 80 by 40 metres, it will greet an estimated 80 per cent of passengers as they fly in to land.
    “Auckland Airport is the main gateway to New Zealand, and we have a unique opportunity to make a special first impression – Kiwi style,” commented Mr Tasker.ADVERTISEMENTDuring July and August, Auckland Airport expects around 1.7 million people to fly domestically and 2.1 million to fly internationally – roughly 90% of airline seat capacity compared to July and August 2019.
    “We’re seeing more travellers during the end of July and into August than on some of our busiest days during the school holidays. This will largely be due to the sporting events at this time of year, being the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ and the All Blacks playing in the Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship and the Bledisloe Cup,” said Mr Tasker.
    The ‘Game On!’ welcome message follows the success of the ‘Kia Ora’ runway sign in May 2022, which greeted travellers post-Covid when travel opened back up.
    While waiting for their favourite team or player, or to welcome friends and loved ones in the international arrivals hall, people will be encouraged to “fly their flag”. Using a dedicated tablet, airport visitors can select their favourite team flag as backdrop on an animated screen for their personalised photo.
    FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ official mascot Tazuni™ will also be at the terminal at select times.
    Auckland Airport thanks Tātaki Auckland Unlimited – Host City for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ – for their support in creating these experiences. It is another example of the partnership between the two organisations.
    For more information on the tournament, head to: https://www.aucklandnz.com/fifa-womens-world-cup

    Older
    Seychelles Tourism Academy lecturing staff successfully complete industry cross-exposure journey

    Newer
    Spas of America Reaches an Impressive Milestone More

  • in

    Seychelles Tourism Academy lecturing staff successfully complete industry cross-exposure journey

    The Seychelles Tourism Academy’s lecturing staff participated in a week-long industry cross-exposure project from Monday, June 26th, to Friday, June 30th, 2023. They were placed in a selection of establishments around Mahé, Praslin, and other islands.The project also saw the participation of the academy’s Deputy Director, Ms Brigitte Joubert, alongside the academy’s librarian.
    The initiative aims to guarantee that the Seychelles Tourism Academy lecturers remain connected with all new developments in the tourism sector so that they may better transfer those experiences and expertise to their students in their delivery.
    Speaking about the programme, Mr Terence Max, Director of the Academy, stated that it is part of the academy’s strategic aim to keep educators up-to-date on the newest industry trends.
    He further emphasised that this exposure would enable participants to maintain and develop their working relationships with their industry counterparts.
    “This project is a significant step forward for us. We are really pleased with the overall reaction to this project; not only have our business partners replied positively to our request, but our lecturers have also provided us with excellent comments about their experience. I believe this will be a success for all of us,” said Mr Max.ADVERTISEMENTFollowing this one-week exposure, each team member will have one day per week (except Thursdays) to continue their professional development while also engaging in project work within the industry.
    The project participants will return to the academy on Monday, July 3rd, 2023, and Advanced Certificate classes are scheduled to resume on the same day.
    The Seychelles is an award winning destination triumphing at last years World Travel Awards winning the awards for World’s Most Romantic Destination, Indian Ocean’s Leading Cruise Destination and Indian Oceans Leading Honeymoon Destination.

    Older
    Japan Airlines Celebrates 10 Years at Helsinki Airport with Festivities and Cultural Exchange

    Newer
    Auckland Airport Unveils Spectacular Football-Themed Welcome for FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 More

  • in

    The Hospitality Show Wraps Up Successful Inaugural Year, Drawing Thousands of Attendees and Vendors

    The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and Questex this week debuted The Hospitality Show (The Show) at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas June 27-29, completing a highly successful inaugural year for the event, which drew more than 3,500 attendees and 300 vendors.
    The Show is a brand-new operations and technology event, created in partnership by The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and Questex, uniquely designed for the entire hospitality ecosystem to help hotels operate more efficiently and profitably.
    “We set very high standards for what we wanted to achieve with the first year of The Show, and the industry responded in a resoundingly strong way,” said AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers. “With an all-star lineup of speakers, who’s who list of attendees, and unparalleled networking opportunities, The Show proved itself as one of hospitality’s most important events. We are excited to continue growing and improving it year after year.”
    The Show reached an important milestone prior to its opening, when it sold every available vendor space on the expo floor, a rare achievement for a first-year event of this size and scope.
    “The sold-out status of The Show’s vendor space in its inaugural year is a remarkable accomplishment that motivates us to continuously innovate and reimagine what’s possible,” said Questex Hospitality, Travel & Wellness Group President Alexi Khajavi. “Next year and into the future, The Hospitality Show will be an unforgettable event, delivering unmatched opportunities for growth, learning, and networking.”ADVERTISEMENTThe Show attendees enjoyed two days of main-stage sessions led by iconic leaders, solutions-driven programming and case studies of profitable operations, as well as 13+ hours of networking opportunities. Learn more about The Show’s networking opportunities here. A full list of speakers is here and the event schedule is here.
    Attendees benefited from content across three sets of stages, including a Main Stage that opened the event each morning with views and insights from leading minds from the hotel industry and beyond. The Show speakers included Athletic Greens COO & President Kat Cole, Retired U.S. Navy Admiral William H. McRaven, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts President & CEO Geoff Ballotti, Marriott International President & CEO Anthony Capuano, BWH Hotels President & CEO Larry Cuculic, Hyatt Hotels Corporation President & CEO Mark Hoplamazian, and Sonesta International Hotels Corporation President & CEO John Murray.
    Content was also delivered from two Solutions Stages, diving deep into the biggest industry issues across ownership, operations, emerging trends, and technology.
    A Spotlight Stage featured technology-driven demos and case studies from key vendors, including ADP, Belden, Nomadix, Sage, Shiji and more.
    Next year, The Hospitality Show 2024 will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio from Monday, Oct. 28, 2024, through Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024. Those interested in the 2024 event can complete this form to receive more information.

    Older
    Seychelles Tourism standards set to improve with newly launched National Classification Programme

    Newer
    Japan Airlines Celebrates 10 Years at Helsinki Airport with Festivities and Cultural Exchange More

  • in

    Bulgaria Hosts Largest-Ever Digital Nomad Event with 700+ Attendees from 40+ Countries

    Bansko, a rural town nestled in the Pirin mountains, witnessed an extraordinary event last week (June 25 – July 2). Over 700 digital nomads from around the globe converged here for a memorable week-long conference and festival.The most represented countries at Bansko Nomad Fest 2023 were:
    United States 22.3%Germany 11.2%Bulgaria 9.6%United Kingdom 8.8%Israel 8.0%Canada 4.8%Estonia 3.6%Japan 2.8% Spain 2.8%Netherlands 2.4%Italy 2.0%Belgium 2.0%Serbia 2.0%Australia 1.6%Cyprus 1.6%But there were also representatives of countries such as India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, Colombia, Paraguay, China, New Zealand, Poland, Ukraine, France, Portugal, Switzerland, Albania, Greece, Croatia, and more.
    Since its inception in 2016, Bansko has become a popular digital nomad hub, thanks to the efforts of Matthias Zeitler, originally from Germany, who established a thriving coworking space and community. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, Bansko Nomad Fest commenced in 2020, with approximately 100 participants. The event’s remarkable success led to its continuous growth each year.

    This year, Bansko Nomad Fest achieved new heights, attracting 700+ attendees, 60 speakers, and a dedicated team of 120 volunteers, committed to delivering an exceptional experience.The event encompassed a diverse range of activities, including knowledge sharing sessions, valuable networking opportunities, and immersive experiences showcasing the region’s rich culinary delights, wines, and thrilling mountain adventures. Evening festivities added to the vibrant atmosphere, with parties that created lasting memories.ADVERTISEMENTIn addition to the scheduled talks on two event stages during mornings, participants took part in over 100 spontaneous unconference sessions, proposed by the attendees themselves on the first day.
    The official talks covered a wide array of topics, such as AI, productivity, work-life balance, passive income, self-publishing, real estate investing, coworking, coliving, and emerging travel trends. The complete lineup of speakers can be found on the event’s website: https://www.banskonomadfest.com/.

    The unconference sessions offered interactive discussions on diverse subjects, including book writing, building local nomad communities, app development without coding, affiliate marketing, and more. Some of the unconference session had an interactive form like a Thai boxing class or a meditation workshop.
    Outdoor enthusiasts delighted in activities like hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, rafting, ATV trips, yoga, volleyball, and a football tournament. Cultural experiences were also abundant, with participants savoring traditional Bulgarian cuisine during delightful dinners, participating in wine-tasting tours, and exploring local attractions such as the Bear Sanctuary and Rila Monastery.
    The evenings were filled with exuberant parties and enjoyable activities, including bonfires, pool parties, improv shows, speed dating, scavenger hunts, and karaoke sessions.
    Moreover, Bansko Nomad Fest organized a startup pitching session in collaboration with the Founder Institute, providing startups with a platform to present their ideas to investors and business angels from Sofia. The lead investor on the Bulgarian version of Shark Tank, Pavel Ezekiev, was among the esteemed guests.
    ​​Bansko Nomad Fest also takes pride in its commitment to giving back to the local community by supporting two local charities, Bansko Street Dogs and the Sunflower Foundation, which aids disadvantaged individuals in the area.
    The participants of Bansko Nomad Fest represent a diverse range of backgrounds, encompassing remote workers, freelancers, startup founders, online business owners, content creators, and coaches specializing in various fields, such as life and business coaching, personal training, yoga, book coaching, meditation guidance, human design coaching, and many more.
    For more information and updates, please visit the Bansko Nomad Fest website: https://www.banskonomadfest.com/ or contact: [email protected]

    Older
    Women’s Golf Solheim Cup to be held in Costa del Sol

    Newer
    Seychelles Tourism standards set to improve with newly launched National Classification Programme More

  • in

    Women’s Golf Solheim Cup to be held in Costa del Sol

    From 18 to 24 of September, the Costa del Sol will host the most important women’s golf tournament in the world, the Solheim Cup, which will pit players from the United States and Europe against each other in match-play format. The event gives visitors a unique opportunity to discover the destination, known as the Costa del Golf, and enjoy its hospitality and gastronomy.
    The most important women’s golf tournament in the world, the Solheim Cup, is just around the corner. The women’s version of the Ryder Cup, recognised as the best golf destination in Europe by the IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators), will be held from 18 to 24 September in the Costa del Sol.
    In fact, the Costa del Sol is continental Europe’s destination with the highest concentration of golf courses – it has more than 70 – which, together with an exceptional climate all year round, means that the Costa del Sol is known as the Costa del Golf. Golf enthusiasts will find here not only a wide variety of courses where they can practice their swing, but also a range of accommodation and high-level services that offer the possibility of enjoying its renowned hospitality and tasting the exquisite gastronomy of Malaga. The Costa del Sol’s golf courses already have experience in hosting elite competitions such as the Ryder Cup or the World Golf Championships, among others.
    The Solheim Cup, held every two years, has become the most prestigious team competition in the international golf calendar, with some of the most memorable moments in the history of golf having occurred in this competition. The European team, captained by Suzann Pettersen, will attempt to win against the American team once more, as it has done in four of the last six editions, reversing the dominant trend of its counterpart. The championship has become a classic for golf lovers and, in fact, the Costa del Sol will become the world capital of this sport from 18 to 24 September. More than 300 journalists will cover the event, which will be broadcasted for 35 hours, including the opening and closing ceremonies.
    So far, 75,000 tickets have been sold for the tournament, which will be hosted by Finca Cortesín. Located between Marbella and Sotogrande and overlooking the Mediterranean and the Casares mountain range; the exclusive resort houses; a five-star hotel, where the 24 players will stay; and a magnificent 18-hole, 7,500-yard championship golf course, as well as the state-of-the-art Jack Niclaus Academy. The Cabell Robinson-designed course is one of the longest in Europe and has previously hosted high-profile tournaments, including the Volvo World Match Play Championship on three occasions, one of the most prestigious professional golf tournaments in the world. For the Solheim Cup tournament, 65 greenkeepers, 40 of them volunteers from all over the world, are expected to prepare the course.ADVERTISEMENTGastronomic and cultural experiences
    The Solheim Cup will be an opportunity to enjoy the Costa del Sol, its high-level hospitality, as well as its gastronomy and cultural events that will take place in parallel to the tournament. Andalucía Plaza will be the main meeting point, the entry and exit point and the place where the public will gather, where there will also be a wide gastronomic and cultural offering with live music throughout the whole tournament.
    Swing and Sun, the Solheim Cup 2023 Fan Fest, will also be located at the Marbella Arena, Puerto Banús. The immersive experience from morning to night will allow the tournament to be experienced off the course as well, with concerts being showcased during the seven days of the competition. Meanwhile, the Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavís Marbella Resort will be the setting for exclusive gastronomic evenings throughout the week with menus designed for a culinary tour of Andalusia. The most exclusive experiences will take place at the Málaga Pavilion, which sold out nine months before the tournament, and at Hoyo 17, where visitors can indulge in a VIP menu designed by some of the most important Michelin-starred chefs.
    Sustainability will play an important role in the Solheim Cup. The Finca Cortesín course is irrigated with 100% reclaimed water, the electric generators are powered by solar panels and ecological chairs made from olive tree stubble will be used. In addition, thanks to the project promoted by Costa del Sol Tourism and the Costa del Sol Provincial Council ‘Málaga Zero footprint’, attendees will be able to calculate their carbon footprint. It should be noted that, with this initiative, the Costa del Sol has become the first destination in the world to calculate the carbon footprint of any tourist arriving in the province of Malaga, regardless of the type of trip, and offset it.

    Older
    Seychelles and Colombo unite to redefine travel experiences

    Newer
    Bulgaria Hosts Largest-Ever Digital Nomad Event with 700+ Attendees from 40+ Countries More

  • in

    Race into summer has landed in Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

    Ferrari World Abu Dhabi welcomes adventure seekers to an unforgettable Summer filled with family-friendly fun and Ferrari-inspired experiences made to delight. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is featuring a stellar line-up of entertaining activities and family-friendly shows running until September 3.
    With summer closing in, guests can look forward to beating the heatwave with over 43 rides and attractions right under the iconic red roof of the capital’s leading theme park. Happening daily until September 3, little ones can enjoy a series of activities including the ‘Mosaic Series’, where they can create personalized souvenirs inspired by Scuderia Ferrari.

    At the Family Zone, guests can join the interactive experience, at La Piazza Green Zone, where little champions can engage in a life-size board game and race to the finish line with ‘Ready Set Play! Additionally, guests can enjoy roaming performance shows seven days a week and meet the new family members of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Bella, Jack and GIO at Cinema Maranello or on the La Piazza Stage, which promises a unique opportunity for families to take memorable pictures at the world’s leading theme park. The fun continues, guests can enjoy live entertainment and conclude their day every Friday, Saturday and Sunday with a dynamic “Drone Show” where hundreds of meticulously programmed drones come together in a stunning spectacle, harmoniously orchestrating a breathtaking exhibition of vibrant colors, intricate shapes, and captivating patterns, ensuring that guests leave with cherished memories and an unforgettable experience.
    ADVERTISEMENTUntil 30 September, guests can enjoy the ultimate staycation, by making a reservation at any of Yas Island’s exceptional partner hotels, where two children under the age of 12 can enjoy a complimentary stay in the same room as their parents. As an added benefit for families, they can also avail themselves of free admission to Yas Island’s incredible theme parks, granting them unlimited access to thrilling experiences. Additionally, the children can dine for free, following the same meal plan as their parents, at the hotel.
    Ferrari World is an award winning entertainment hub, winning the World Travel Award in 2022 for World’s Leading Theme Park based on Yas Island
    Yas Island and its world-class theme parks, experiences and attractions were recognised with seven awards in the globally renowned World Travel Awards in 2022. In addition to scooping the accolade of World’s Leading Theme Park Destination 2022, Yas Island received the flagship Middle East’s Leading Tourism Development award for the fourth consecutive year, testament to the global reputation Yas Island has as a leisure and entertainment hub.
    For more information, please visit: www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com

    Older
    Richmond International Airport Named Most Efficient in North America More

  • in

    Richmond International Airport Named Most Efficient in North America

    Richmond International Airport (RIC) has earned the Most Efficient Airport in North America* award from the Air Transport Research Society (ATRS). The honor took place July 2, 2023, at the organization’s 26th World Conference in Kobe, Japan. This is RIC’s first win from ATRS, recognized as one of the most reputable aviation research societies in the world.
    “We are thrilled to win this award and we could not have done it without our fantastic team,” said Perry J. Miller, A.A.E., I.A.P, President and CEO of RIC. “We’ve been an economic engine for our region for almost a century – generating about $2.1 billion in economic impact per year – and it’s because everyone here is committed to delivering an extraordinary travel experience. We want the world to know what RIC and the Greater Richmond region has to offer.”
    The award is granted based on performance indicators like productivity and operating/management efficiency, airport charge comparisons, and more. In 2021, the airport began facility updates to welcome international travel, which included a now complete Concourse A expansion, preparing for additional ramp space, and customs upgrades to meet global travel protocols. Last year, RIC was named the Best Little Big Airport in the world by Business Focus Magazine. And this year, RIC has increased its direct service options by 36%.
    “RIC has had a direct impact on local business vitality, resident happiness, and increased tourism spending,” says Frank Thornton, Chairman of the Henrico County Board of Supervisors. “And you can see that they’re not content to rest on their laurels; they’re deliberately taking steps to improve. For instance, the addition of new and affordable nonstop options to popular destinations like San Francisco and New Orleans has moved the needle for RIC – and for us as a region.”
    “If you have the same flight pattern, you’ll keep arriving at the same destination,” says Miller. “We are laying new groundwork to grow as an airport of choice, one that leads the way in the future of our industry. This means a lot of exciting projects in the works, like making flights available to Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, and Japan, and building a hands-on facility where the future generation of workers can learn about the aviation industry. If you think we’ve done great things so far, you’ll be thrilled to see what’s on the horizon.”ADVERTISEMENT*under 5 million passengers per year

    Older
    Turkish Airlines named ‘Most Sustainable Flag Carrier Airline’ in World Finance Awards

    Newer
    Race into summer has landed in Ferrari World Abu Dhabi More

  • in

    HEALTH & WELLNESS IN SAINT LUCIA

    NATURAL HEALINGWith over 1,300 different species of wild flowering plants and 150 species of fern squeezed into just 620 square kilometres, Saint Lucia is a botanical paradise. Discover the many plants and trees that have been part of traditional Saint Lucian medicine for generations. Cover your skin in the therapeutic volcanic mud and dip in the hot baths at Sulphur Springs, plunge into one of the island’s refreshing waterfalls or take a guided hike or bird-watching tour in the lush rainforest.

    TREATMENTS & THERAPIESSaint Lucia has a rich history of offering rejuvenating and restorative treatments. The baths in the Sulphur Springs date back to the 1700s and were built to access the therapeutic waters of the volcano. In addition to the restored baths and natural practices available, there are an impressive choice of spas and salons in hotels and independently across the island that provide a wide range of treatments and programmes to pamper and indulge you. Enjoy spa therapies and beauty treatments in stunning locations such as open-air rooms, rainforest showers and spectacular sea views. You’ll also find locally sourced and created products alongside international brands.

    EATING WELLSaint Lucia’s varied history is ever-present in its food with Creole flavours alongside international cuisine. If you’re looking for healthier menus there’s a great choice available. Across hotels and independent restaurants you’ll find vegan and vegetarian options and locally produced juices such as pineapple, soursop and tamarind. Chefs make full use of home-grown tropical fruit, vegetables and freshly caught seafood to create delicious, well-balanced dishes.ADVERTISEMENT
    MIND AND BODYThere are an ever-growing number of fitness and relaxation classes such as yoga, pilates and tai chi available in hotels and standalone centres. Or get inspired with one of the many wellness retreats with stunning views of the Pitons, the sea and the forest. You can start the day with yoga at sunrise on the beach or wind down with meditation at sunset in the open air.

    MEDICAL MEETS WELLNESSThe award-winning wellness centres on the island take Saint Lucia’s wellness offering to the next level. The Bodyholiday resort for example, has the most comprehensive collection of services in the Caribbean and works regularly with specialists and experts from around the world to offer ground-breaking treatments. The Landings Resort and Spa has just launched the region’s first programme dedicated to female wellbeing with each product used during the custom treatments carefully selected to address a variety of female concerns. With more medically focussed therapies being developed the island is fast becoming a sought-after destination in this field.
    The magical island of Saint Lucia will host the World Travel Awards Caribbean & The Americas Gala Ceremony 2023 on 26 August 2023. The leading travel industry figureheads from across the region will attend the red-carpet reception at Sandals Grande St. Lucian.
    Graham Cooke, Founder, World Travel Awards, says: “I am honoured to unveil Saint Lucia as the host of our Caribbean & Americas Gala Ceremony 2023, in this our landmark 30th anniversary. Saint Lucia is helping to spearhead the recovery of travel and tourism in the Caribbean, and I am delighted this captivating island will form a crucial part of our anniversary tour.”He adds: “World Travel Awards has maintained its position as the industry leader for the past 30 years, consistently proving its value as the global benchmark for recognising excellence in travel and tourism. I look forward to joining the most senior travel industry figureheads from across the Caribbean and The Americas for what promises to be a fabulous event, acknowledging those organisations spearheading the growth of the region’s travel and tourism sector.”

    Older
    RYANAIR CELEBRATES 15-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF BOURNEMOUTH BASE

    Newer
    WHAT’S NEW IN THE BAHAMAS IN JULY 2023 More