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    Jamaica Elected to Serve Four-year Term on UNWTO Executive Council

    Minister Edmund Bartlett shares lens with (from left to right) Niels Olsen, Minister of Tourism of Ecuador; Sofía Montiel de Afara, Minister of Tourism, Paraguay; and Carlos Andrés Peguero, Vice Minister of Tourism, Dominican Republic moments before the announcement of his election to the UNWTO Executive Council.
    Jamaica has been elected to serve on the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) Executive Council for 2023-2027 alongside Colombia. The decision was made during the 68th UNWTO Commission for the Americas Meeting (CAM) currently underway in Quito, Ecuador.
    In celebrating the achievement, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett said, “Jamaica has been among the top-performing countries in the Americas leading a robust recovery in travel and tourism. Being elected alongside Colombia to represent our regional colleagues is an incredible honour, and we look forward to contributing wholesomely to the organization’s thrust to promote tourism as a driver of sustainable economic growth for developing nations especially.”
    The Executive Council is responsible for the management and implementation of strategic decisions carried out by the UNWTO.
    “We are thrilled by the expression of confidence our fellow member states have shown. I continue to invite deeper collaboration among regional partners as we work to build resilience regionally and internationally. We are among the most tourism-dependent regions in the world, and it is imperative that our views are represented at the highest level,” added the tourism minister.
    Other decisions arising from the meeting include the Dominican Republic’s selection to serve as President of the Regional Commission for Americas for 2023-2025. Argentina and Paraguay have been selected to serve as Vice-Presidents of CAM for the same period as well as for the UNWTO General Assembly to be held in October. ADVERTISEMENTMinister Bartlett has been participating in a series of panels, presentations and seminars focused on tourism investment trends and opportunities in the Americas. A highlight of the 68th CAM was the Investment Seminar that explored the promotion of investments through technical cooperation, building capacity for tourism development and accessing financing that accelerates climate resilience in the regional sector.
    It was agreed that Cuba would host the 69th CAM scheduled for 2024.

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    Divine Desserts Around the World That Will Delight Your Taste Buds

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    Divine Desserts Around the World That Will Delight Your Taste Buds

    Chocolate Hour at Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island
    Press pause on your summer adventures and harness your inner Willy Wonka at the boutique MÖCA Lobby Lounge at Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island –in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, for a complimentary Chocolate Hour every day! Sweet-toothed foodies can rejoice as Mövenpick dedicates one hour in the afternoon to an exquisite tasting experience, with delicious Swiss chocolate variations and homemade creations such as brownies, truffles, chocolate fountains and much more.
    Need somewhere to relax after the chocolate indulgence? The remarkable resort boasts 418 elegantly designed rooms with unobstructed sea views, suites and chalets set against the picturesque backdrop of the Arabian Peninsula. What better place to enjoy World Chocolate Day than at the happiest hour of them all at MÖCA Lobby Lounge.

    Handmade Artisan Chocolate Truffles at Cullinan BelekADVERTISEMENTFor a fancy chocolate tasting experience, expect to be impressed by gorgeous-looking artisan chocolate truffles, handcrafted with care in Cullinan Belek’s Chocolaterie Shop, made afresh every day! The shop is open to all guests as part of the all-inclusive offerings of the resort, meaning that you can try all flavours at one go or discover a new flavour daily FOR FREE throughout your vacation.
    From gourmet chocolate-dipped kiwi fruit and strawberries to intricately prepared caramel, vanilla, and tropical fruit-flavoured truffles with a gooey or crunch core, there is something to satisfy your sweet tooth! You can even catch a glimpse of talented chocolatiers at work in the workshop behind where all the magic happens. Grab them early in the day before stocks run out and save them up for later to be savoured in the comfort of your room as a late-night treat in the evening.

    Chocolate that’s actually good for you at Nova Maldives
    For those watching their weight but don’t want to give up their chocolate craving, the health-conscious Nova Maldives offers some thoughtful options in a newly-released plant-based menu – featuring wholesome desserts with delectable flavours, think pandan semifreddo with vegan chantilly cream and dark chocolate shortbread, a selection of homemade sorbet and fruit carpaccio. Surely this will bust the false impression of vegan-food as dull and boring.
    Another must try is the signature chocolate lava cake, served warm, melting in the middle and oozing chocolate, it is offered exclusively in FLAMES, the hotel’s grill house.

    Chef’s Kiss! Personal Favourites from the Pastry Chef Fodele Beach & Water Park Holiday Resort
    Introducing some dessert eye candy handpicked by Eva Daskalaki, the gifted pastry chef behind Fodele Beach’s stunning creations, incorporating classic flavours that can hardly disappoint, from caramel glazed doughnuts to bite-sized dainty cakes topped with fruit sauce and biscuit crumbs that are best picks for children. To try out the full range of desserts available at the resort, visit each of the all-day-dining and a-la-carte restaurants range of restaurants on-site with seasonal menus – including Basilikos Restaurant that features special theme nights with cultural delicacies from Greece, Spain, Mexico and Asia, and Ambrosia Restaurant, best for a fine dining experience in an elegant atmosphere and with meticulously designed desserts that will leave an impression. Head to Breeze Bar for a drink by the beautiful outdoor terrace overlooking the Fodele bay to finish the night on a high note or soft daze, whichever you prefer.

    The Happy Place – Sweet Corner at AJUL Luxury Hotel & Spa Resort
    BRAND NEW AJUL Luxury Hotel & Spa Resort features a sweet corner full of delights for all. Lots of ice cream flavours, soft served ice cream, freshly made waffles, chocolate of all sorts, fluffy pancakes, crepes, toppings, and sweets, a bar full of sprinkles and syrups, milkshakes, birthday cakes on the spot and other sweet temptations will be there to make your holiday a little bit sweeter.

    Authentic chocolate in Jamaica
    Jamaicans love a sweet treat after a meal, don’t you? Time to indulge in some specialty Jamaican chocolate treats – made by you!
    Premium farm to table brand Pure Chocolate Jamaica is home to delicious and sustainable chocolate products. Only the best cocoa beans are selected to create its quality and creamy chocolate bars and the bars are sealed in vibrant and colourful wrappers designed by talented local Jamaican artists. Select from traditional flavours such as its Dark Chocolate, or Milk Chocolate with Cookies and Cream, or try some more of its unique flavours like Dark Chocolate with Lemongrass, or Dark Chocolate with Jerk Seasoning bars. Pure Chocolate Jamaica also host workshops and tastings for those looking to create their own chocolate treats.
    So, you’ve heard of hot chocolate, but have you heard of chocolate tea? No powdered or packaged cocoa can compare to a cup of Jamaican chocolate tea. This soothing drink is traditionally prepared steeping grated chocolate balls with milk and spices. The perfect way to end the day.

    Dessert as paintings that are a sight to behold at Kandima Maldives
    When it comes to desserts, Kandima elevates all into art so that tasting them becomes a multisensory delight. If you are a visual diner yourself who appreciates dessert plates with a concept and a beautiful presentation. Here are a few that you cannot miss with a refreshing look that alludes to nature. From the left, we have the “Mango Opera” layered with mango butter cream and chocolate ganache, followed by the “Mascarpone and Peanut Mousse” with honey drizzled mango salsa and cocoa soil, arranged in the shape of a garland. Continue the artsy journey by taking to canvas painting yourself at the KULA Art Studio, a space for you to rekindle the creativity within and unleash your inner Picasso, Van Gogh, or Andy Warhol, with guidance from the resident artist Zima.

    Bite into tradition paired with innovation at Kivotos Santorini, Mavro
    Located above the glistening Aegean Sea, sits Kivotos Santorini’s signature restaurant, MAVRO. Head Chef Dimitris has created a culinary experience that masterfully blends tradition and innovation with aromas and flavours that will intrigue your palate and soothe your soul. On the menu, you’ll find a variety of decadently delicious desserts including a caramalised white chocolate dessert with rum and raisin ice cream to tantalise your tastebuds, the milk chocolate dessert which features traditional Greek coffee, banana and banana stracciatella ice cream and vegan chocolate macarons, made with 76% dark chocolate, tahini and agave.

    Chocolate heaven at Seaside A Lifestyle Resort
    Troubles will melt away as guests relish in this incredible chocolate dessert with the sounds of the waves crashing against the cliffs in the background. Aptly named, Chocolate Heaven is available to enjoy at Seaside A Lifestyle Resort. The stunning chocolate creation consists of smooth chocolate pat sucre, chocolate crème, marinaded raisins, and caramelised cacao nibs.
    Situated in Agia Pelagia, Crete, this 5* luxurious, adults-only resort sits on the cliffside of Mononaftis Bay, with magnificent surrounding views of the Aegean Sea. Cool off after indulging and take a dip in the newly renovated outdoor saltwater outdoor pool.

    Japanese and Peruvian treats at The Ixian Grand & All Suites
    Deepen your appreciation for this remarkable treat at The Ixian Grand & All Suites – an upscale adults-only resort, offering care-free all-inclusive experiences, excellent hospitality and a plethora of food and beverage options including some delectable desserts. Make your way down to the Muza Htista Restaurant for a dessert at sunset for a truly romantic experience. Seek out their Tejas Truffles, delightful small chocolate desserts with a smooth filling made with chocolate, pecan nuts and dried fruit for some extra crunch. The Fried Ice Cream is an absolute must try for the ultimate indulgent dessert. The golden crust is made of cereal topped with chocolate syrup and inside you will find a creamy vanilla ice cream.

    Desserts with a fine dining twist ACRO Suites
    Your eyes and tastebuds will be in for a treat at ACRO Suites. This boutique, 5* state-of-the-art, wellness-focused resort is home to 49 suites, lofts and villas which all come with their own saltwater private pool, making it the perfect oasis for couples looking to escape to a quiet hideaway destination and enjoy they cocoa treats in secluded luxury.
    The signature menu at CREMNOS, the hotel’s main restaurant, is a nutritional haven, offering traditional Greek cuisine with a contemporary twist. Here guests can enjoy the Choco Secret, a chocolate dessert accompanied by a sorbet of forest fruits, cru de cacao and mint gel carefully prepared by Chef Yannis Rokanas.

    Indulgent desserts accompanied by panoramic views at Kouros Hotel & Suites
    Enjoy the delicious Chocolate Ganache at Kouros Hotel & Suites, a 5* luxury boutique haven just minutes away from Mykonos town. You can find this indulgent delicacy at Narcissus Restaurant, consisting of rich chocolate ganache, a red berry coulis, white chocolate montée, and vanilla ice cream. It is difficult to think of a better place to share moments of chocolate sweetness than overlooking the spectacular Aegean Sea, the perfect place to admire the dazzling sunset, as Mykonos’ evening buzz booms.

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    New Summit to Galvanise Policies on Culture and Heritage in Tourism

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    New Summit to Galvanise Policies on Culture and Heritage in Tourism

    A dynamic new leadership summit will grapple with major challenges and opportunities of culture and heritage in tourism. Event organiser, the World Tourism Association for Culture and Heritage, invites stakeholders to make their voices heard at the new annual summit, the first of which takes place in Valencia, Spain, 24-25 September.
    A list of respected high-level speakers from national government organisations, lending institutions, heritage organisations, tourism departments, local communities, academia, and private sector representatives will convene for a day and a half in Valencia. They will focus on creating viable businesses and building better livelihoods for people living in heritage communities connected to tourism.
    The aim of the summit is to better conserve and promote responsible cultural and heritage tourism around the world – and for tourism to be the protector of the world’s culture and heritage.
    Key sessions include the case for investment in heritage destinations, balancing tourism growth with heritage conservation, the latest global trends in cultural and heritage in tourism, better capacity building, training and education. There will be a session when anyone in the delegation can contribute.
    The World Tourism Association for Culture and Heritage (WTACH) will present the Summit with host organisation Visit Valencia in the heart of Valencia, Spain – Europe’s Green Capital 2024.ADVERTISEMENT“We believe that focused efforts can improve the lives and wellbeing of local communities and custodians through better implementation of best practices,” said Nigel Fell, CEO of WTACH.
    A sample of the stellar line-up of international guest speakers already confirmed includes:Rajan Data – BBC, London as Key Moderator, Dawn Drew – Summit MC, Global Tourism Destination Specialist – New York; Anne Grady – Senior Advisor to the European Parliament – Brussels; Imad Barrakad, Chairman SMIT (Morocco Agency for Tourism Development) – Rabat, Morocco; Bruce Poon Tip – Founder G Adventures, Toronto, Karl Burrows – Head of Maori Tourism Development – Tourism New Zealand – Auckland; Debbie Flynn – Managing Partner and Global Practice Leader – Finn Partners – London; Emma Nardi – President, International Council of Museums (ICOM) – Rome; Judy Kepher-Gona, Founder, Sustainable Travel & Tourism Agenda – Nairobi; Scott Wayne – President – SWA Development – Sustainable Destinations – Washington DC; Nada Hosking – National Geographic Explorer & Social Impact Leader – Austin, Texas; Miguel Angel Perez – Brands & Markets Director, Visit Valencia, Valencia.
    WTACH Chairman, Chris Flynn, said the Global Leadership Summit programme has been designed to attract representatives from governments, tourism boards, leading private sector decision makers, tour operators, corporate sponsors, community representatives, NGOs, media and others.
    “With the summit theme ‘Celebrating our Past – Securing our Future,’ our programme encourages attendees to contribute to new directions, priorities and attitudes towards culture and heritage in tourism,” said Flynn.
    While the summit formally concludes on the evening of 25 September, there will be optional training on the morning of the 26th for culture and heritage tourism practitioners. Spaces are limited to 25.

    An early bird registration for the event is only available until 7 July. Visit https://wtachgls.com.

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    MILAROCA, A BELMOND HOTEL, RIVIERA NAYARIT OPENING 2025

    Belmond, the visionary leader in luxury travel, has entered into a management agreement with Cora Pacific Development, led by entrepreneur duo Barbara Machen and Rosetta Getty, for Milaroca, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Nayarit on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.Designed by a team of interior maestros, with curation by creative director Getty, Milaroca will be consciously and sensitively built from the ground up. 
    The signing of an agreement to manage Milaroca further strengthens Belmond’s commitment to Mexico, with its reach now extending to the country’s western region. Milaroca will join two other Belmond properties in Mexico – Casa de Sierra Nevada, a former convent built in 16th century located in the country’s heartland of San Miguel de Allende, and the reimagined Maroma in Riviera Maya on the Yucatan Peninsula which will reopen its doors this August following a complete renovation.
    “We have the incredible opportunity to craft a legend of the future with the best partners we could have asked for,” said Roeland Vos, President & CEO of Belmond. “With utmost respect to Riviera Nayarit’s multicultural history, abundant nature and the region’s carefree spirit, Milaroca will encapsulate the essence of contemporary lifestyle, creating a destination for today’s thriving creative community – a new legendary scene where new traditions are made, and long-lived rituals are celebrated.”
    Barbara Machen and Rosetta Getty said of the announcement, “Our families have been traveling together to this beautiful area of Mexico for many years. As entrepreneurs and creatives ourselves we understand the importance of the destination that inspire, and we want to share our magical experience; a place for connection, to be returned to year after year, enjoyed by family, friends and peers from around the world, a true home away from home. Milaroca will be like no other resort, and Belmond is the only hospitality brand that truly creates unique luxury experiences in this way. We could not have asked for a better partner.” 
    CONSCIOUSLY CRAFTED HOUSES ADVERTISEMENTImmersed in lush mountainous jungle and pearly-white beach stretching over 2 kilometers along Riviera Nayarit, Milaroca will be a new haven for creative minds. Led by Waldo’s Designs and Clements Design, the property’s aesthetic will draw inspiration from the region’s breathtaking beauty, storied native culture, and the bohemian spirit of nearby San Pancho and Sayulita villages.
    Milaroca will adopt low-density and non-invasive building practices. Each of the 57 guest pavilions will be a welcoming discovery with a unique collection of contemporary custom-made furniture and crafted objects from local artisans and Mexico’s most exciting contemporary artists. Every detail will be carefully considered, with interiors maintaining an intuitive symbiosis with the outdoor spaces and surrounding jungle.
    CURATED CREATIVE COMMUNITY AND CULTURAL CALENDAR OF CELEBRATIONS

    Milaroca will be a buzzing unique scene for curious minds interested in the latest movements in art, fashion and music: a progressive space for tastemakers, visionaries, and artisans to come together to exchange dialogues and ignite new ideas. Guests will connect with the cultures of the Riviera Nayarit through on- and off-site programming.

    Milaroca will bring together the most interesting multi-disciplinary individuals with events, galas and global festivities, drawing inspiration from the cultures of celebrations and rituals rooted in the Cora and Huichol communities. Hosted by Milaroca’s founders, the seasonal soirees – from the New Year’s Eve celebration to the annual summer party, promise to make headlines around the world.

    AN INVITATION TO BE PART OF THE LEGEND: PRIVATE VILLAS AT MILAROCA
    Milaroca will introduce a “by invitation-only” opportunity to own one of 27 uniquely-designed private villas serviced by Belmond. These villas will be part of a thriving creative community and will enjoy Milaroca’s coveted facilities, vibrant cultural programming and the in-residence service and experiences crafted by Belmond’s unrivaled hospitality – centered in warmth, attentiveness, intimacy and personalization.

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    NEOM’s Sindalah Island cements plans to be world’s luxury yachting hub

    NEOM has signed a deal with superyacht concierge and maritime agency BWA Yachting. The firm will establish an office at NEOM’s luxury island development Sindalah.BWA is the Key partner superyacht agency in NEOM and will provide services for the world’s most spectacular luxury vessels, as Sindalah becomes the Red Sea’s first ultra-prime superyacht destination.
    Sindalah will be the first part of NEOM to open, one of NEOM’s 39 islands that will have more than 5,000 berths.Antoni Vives, chief urban development and islands officer at NEOM, said: “Sindalah will redefine the luxury island experience and become the most sought-after yachting destination in the world, offering six months of winter sun and less than a day’s sail from the ports of the Mediterranean.
    “Working with BWA Yachting will allow us to tap into their expertise and provide the unparalleled yachting ecosystem and elevated experience for which Sindalah will become synonymous. This partnership represents an important step as we invite the world to set sail for Sindalah.”
    Paschalis Patsiokas CEO at BWA Yachting added: “We are honoured and excited to be invited by NEOM to establish our presence within this groundbreaking project. At BWA Yachting, we are committed to providing world-class services to superyachts visiting Sindalah and eagerly look forward to creating captivating NEOM itineraries, delivering extraordinary experiences for our clients in this spectacular new destination.”
    ADVERTISEMENTSindalah will have six months of winter sun a year, with the ‘ultra-prime’ marina offering 86 berths for yachts up to 50 meters. Additional serviced offshore buoys will provide mooring for superyachts up to 180 meters.
    On land, Sindalah will be home to high-end restaurants, designer fashion and luxury retail and a golf course.
    The island’s beach club promises ‘will be like no other, hosted by the region’s ‘top entertainment icons’, while the Marine Activities Center will provide underwater experiences,
    Three luxury hotels, including a Four Seasons Resort and Saudi Arabia’s first Marriott International Autograph Collection Hotels property will also be on the island.
    The sustainable design is being led by Italy’s Luca Dini Design & Architecture.
    Source: Hotelier Middle East

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    Minister of Tourism expects 4.5 million international tourists to visit Cambodia in 2023

    The Minister of Tourism Thong Khon confirmed that in the first five months of 2023, more than 2.16 million international tourists visited Cambodia, and he also expressed expectations that throughout the year 2023, Cambodia is set to receive about 4.5 million of international tourists and about 16 million domestic tourists.
    He made this statement at a meeting to review the plan to restore and promote Cambodia’s tourism sector during and after the Covid-19 crisis in second semester of 2022, first semester of 2023 and the implementation direction for 2023-2024 on June 21, at Sokha Residence Hotel, Phnom Penh.
    Khon said that for the first five months of 2023, more than 2.16 million international tourists visited Cambodia at a growth rate of 530 percent compared to the same period in 2022 and about 10 million national tourists, an increase of 76 .4 percent compared to the same period in 2022.
    “Throughout 2023, we expect to receive about 4.5 million international tourists and about 16 million domestic tourists, which is similar to the forecast in the roadmap,” he said.
    Minister Thong Khon stated that in order to ensure the sustainability of the rehabilitation and support of Cambodia’s tourism sector during and after the Covid-19 crisis, the Royal Government has set out key strategies and policies, including: 1. Roadmap on the plan to restore and promote Cambodia’s tourism sector during and after the Covid-19 crisis, 2- Siem Reap Tourism Development Master Plan 2021-2035 and 3- Mondulkiri Tourism Development Master Plan 2021-2035.ADVERTISEMENT

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    ISLAND ROUTES UNVEILS ‘PRIVATE AND BESPOKE’ TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

    Award-winning and Caribbean-made travel company Island Routes has launched a new travel style for guests looking to explore the islands privately or in a one-of-a-kind, customizable way.The all-new Private & Bespoke Collections offer curated experiences for travelers, with the option to fully customize and tailor to create a personalized, bespoke itinerary.
    “Island Routes was made in the Caribbean, to discover the Caribbean. Our region is known for its days of sun and sand, but we’ve always taken guests well beyond the beach,” says Ryan Terrier, Chief Executive Officer of Island Routes. “The Private & Bespoke Collections take this concept a step further, offering families, friends or couples the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Caribbean on their own with a knowledgeable guide or to have a curated experience that is completely unique and tailored. We’re the ultimate Caribbean concierge; we understand the region, we know its stories and are ready to authentically share them with the rest of the world.”
    For more than a decade, Island Routes has inspired visitors to get off the grid and dive into the heart of the islands, where excursions such as setting sail, exploring lush peaks and tasting rich flavors become lasting memories. With the Private & Bespoke Collections, Island Routes is meeting the demand for hyper-personalized travel, complete with VIP access to unique sites and specialized expert guides. These made-to-measure travel experiences are rising in popularity in the Caribbean, with Island Routes leading the charge as the world’s leading Caribbean attraction company.
    From private catamaran cruises that sail island to island, and thrilling underwater adventures while snorkeling in Turks & Caicos, to swimming with the iconic pigs in The Exumas, the Private Collection will offer guests the chance to enjoy some of Island Routes’ most adored tours all to themselves. For those seeking something customizable, Bespoke tours can be personalized per guests’ wishes, showcasing the depth and breadth of Island Routes’ expertise in building one-of-a-kind experiences for travelers visiting the Caribbean. With local guides on hand to create moments that know no bounds, inspirations for Bespoke tours include:
    Powerboat, Secluded Cove & Waterfall Experience Ocho Rios – Explore the coastline of Ocho Rios on an exhilarating powerboat ride, granting beachside access to Dunn’s River Falls. Here, guests will venture along a morning climb through the pits and peaks of the 600 feet falls, just steps from the mouth of the freshwater aquifer, all before the arrival of tourist crowds. Back on the water, snorkel the colorful reefs nearby the famed Laughing Waters, an iconic location from the James Bond Dr. No film. The day isn’t complete without an exclusive Jamaican-style picnic prepared by a private chef, where travelers will dine beachside in a secluded cove, feeling the rush of flowing waters abound.ADVERTISEMENTBamboo River Rafting & Riverside Lunch – Beyond the beaches of Jamaica, board a 30-foot handmade bamboo pontoon with a personal captain and sail down the rushing waters of the Martha Brae River, located in the parish of Trelawny and lined on either side by the island’s lush rainforest. Disembark from the river and reach an oasis along the riverbank for an authentic steel drum serenade and exquisite local lunch. Surrounded by the island’s most gorgeous rivers, travelers will be met with beautiful boho banquet tables, umbrellas and wooden chairs. A private chef will freshly prepare BBQ-style cuisine, complemented by a taste of the island’s signature ice-cold coconut jelly or a glass of flavorful rum punch.
    Modern Heritage Open Fire Dinner Ocho Rios – Visit a National Heritage Site surrounded by picturesque tropical gardens dating back to the 19th century, where it served as a pimento estate. Here, the famed Caribbean flavors of an authentic coal pan dinner await. Award-winning chefs will lead an intimate al fresco meal cooked entirely over open flames. With craft cocktails flowing, the night will end with a lively conversation about Jamaican culture and culinary traditions with the chefs.
    Blue Mountain Hike, Holywell & Coffee Experience – Hike through the majestic forests of the Blue Mountains, a World UNESCO Heritage Site and the country’s highest peak, sitting at a comfortable 7401.6 feet above sea level. The mile-long hike takes guests through the lush tropical forest, gorgeous flora and vibrant fauna to reach Holywell Nature Park. Along the way, enjoy a private tour and tasting at a family-owned coffee estate where guests will learn about the history of one of Jamaica’s most beloved exports, the world-renowned Blue Mountain coffee. The day ends with a catered quaint picnic lunch in the stunning Holywell National Park.For more information about the new Private & Bespoke Collections, visit islandroutes.com
    Built out of a desire to share the boundless beauty of the Caribbean with the rest of the world, Island Routes was again victorious as the Caribbean’s Leading Adventure Tour Operator 2022 at the 29th annual World Travel Awards held last year. It marked the 10th win for the company as it continues to lead the service industry in regional innovation and travel.

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    PATA Honours Industry Leaders at the PATA Annual Summit and Adventure Travel Mart 2023

    L/R: Ms. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director, Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), and Dr Chris Bottrill, Associate Vice President, International, Capilano University, Canada.
    The PATA Life Membership and the PATA Award of Merit were presented during the Inauguration Ceremony and PATA Awards Presentation held at the Pokhara Grande Hotel on Tuesday May 30, 2023.
    PATA Chair Peter Semone said,”As we look towards the future of travel, it is always important to remember the past and recognise the individuals who have greatly contributed towards a more responsible travel and tourism industry. Their achievements should inspire us all to work harder for the responsible and sustainable recovery of the travel industry. I would like to sincerely congratulate them for their valuable contributions and support to both PATA and the entire travel and tourism industry.”
    PATA was honoured to announce that the PATA Life Membership was awarded to Ms. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director, Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO). The award is the Association’s highest individual honour and recognises significant leadership and invaluable dedication to PATA.
    Ms. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes came on board the Marketing Department of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) in 1988, and throughout the years organized and participated in various local, Greater China and overseas tourism exhibitions, conferences, seminars, and promotional activities. In September 1998, she became Deputy Director, carrying on her dedication to destination marketing, and was appointed as MGTO Director in December 2012, before receiving the Medal of Merit for Tourism from the Macao Special Administrative Region Government in 2016.
    She is a current member of the following committees of the Macao SAR Government: Tourism Development Committee, Economic Development Committee, Cultural Development Consultative Committee, Urban Planning Committee, and Investment Committee. She also acts as Macao SAR (China) Focal Point to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, as well as a current member of the Supervisory Board – Finance and Elections of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).ADVERTISEMENTThe PATA Award of Merit was presented to Dr Chris Bottrill, Associate Vice President, International, Capilano University, Canada. The Award of Merit is reserved for individuals who have consistently contributed to PATA and the PATA chapter network over an extended period.
    Chris (pronouns he/him) is an accomplished educator and administrator and has a wide background of applied experiences. He has taught tourism sustainability, destination development, entrepreneurship, and adventure management topics in universities in Canada, New Zealand, USA and Austria, and served as Dean of three different Faculties at Capilano University. In his current role as Head of International, he oversees a complex portfolio of international recruitment, admissions, partnerships, internationalization and global engagement activities working with a wide array of partners around the world. Chris contributes regularly to professional development activities and has delivered related presentations and workshops in 18 countries. He has also completed over 50 projects around the globe.

    In addition to PATA Life Membership and the PATA Award of Merit, the Association also bestowed a special award to Dr. Dhananjay Regmi, CEO, Nepal Tourism Board and Soon Hwa Wong, CEO, AsiaChina Pte. Ltd., Singapore for the extraordinary efforts and support to PATA.

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