Events, Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

With it being the week of Memorial Day, Collette wants to remind travelers that they’ll be offering a special version of its “Memorials of World War II” tour in 2024 to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.On June 6th, 1944, 160,000 courageous Allied troops set out to liberate Europe from the Nazis, storming the beaches in Normandy, France.
An unforgettable journey of discovery and remembrance awaits travelers as they travel between London, Normandy and Paris on the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. They’ll explore London’s connections to World War II during a city tour focused on The Blitz. Cross the English Channel, retracing the parallel journey the Allied troops took on June 6th, 1944. Have a chance to immerse themselves in the history of Normandy’s D-Day Landing Beaches and visit the Normandy American Cemetery. Visit Saint-Mère-Église, the first French town liberated from the Nazis and learn about the brave paratroopers who parachuted into Normandy on the night of June 5–6, 1944.The journey concludes in Paris, the City of Light with a festive dinner cruise along the Seine River. There are plenty of departures remaining for the special edition tour, with dates ranging throughout 2024 from March 17 to October 11. Travelers can secure their spot on the “Memorials of World War II” tour for prices starting at $3,499.
“Collette’s ‘Memorials of World War II’ tour is special,” said Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, chief customer experience officer at Collette. “Throughout 2024, our travelers will have the opportunity to take this journey honoring the 80th anniversary of D-Day, traveling along the same paths as the near 160,000 Allied troops who battled for European freedom on June 6, 1944. The visit to Normandy is always an emotional one. It is such a moving experience to set foot on the same sand as so many heroes did that day.”

Older
THE BAHAMAS INVITES CRUISE PASSENGERS TO ENJOY REVITALISED NASSAU CRUISE PORT

Newer
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Incorporated Debuts New Holiday Inn Club Vacations™ World Mastercard® More

A key driver of MICE sector growth and the largest operator across the wider MENASA region, Dubai World Trade Centre’s (DWTC) event calendar remained an economic catalyst for the Emirate – generating sustainably high returns for adjacent industries connected to the MICE ecosystem.63 Large scale events held at DWTC welcomed nearly 1.2MM attendees with 40% being international – an impressive 49% YOY increase in foreign participation, emphasising Dubai’s leadership as a global mega-event hub.
“Dubai continues to attract businesses and talent from around the world, with DWTC providing an effective connectivity platform to collaborate, accelerate innovation, and showcase next-generation products and services to far-reaching markets. This sustained impact of in-person events is a clear indicator of the MICE industry’s role in supporting economic growth and achieving investment returns for all stakeholders,” said H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri Director General of DWTC Authority.
According to DWTC’s 2022 Economic Impact Assessment Report, released today, DWTC’s 63 large-scale events ( >2,000 attendees) grew by 26% YOY. Total direct economic output across MICE business services and adjacent sectors more than doubled YOY (108%) to reach $2.55 billion. This further reinforces DWTC’s global leadership as a consistent driver of incremental revenues benefiting other vital sectors of the economy.
DWTC events supported over 48,000 jobs, representing a 110% YOY increase, yielding increased disposable household income of $651 million.
DWTC’s robust events portfolio spans key priority verticals for Dubai’s economic agenda with Healthcare, Medical, and Scientific; Information Technology (IT); and Food, Hotel, and Catering, emerging as the top three sectors. They accounted for 57% ($1.16 billion) of the gross value added (GVA) to Dubai’s economy. Combined attendance represented 46% (535,000) of total large-scale event visitation.ADVERTISEMENTAnnual events, which included GITEX Global and Gulfood, generated $3.55 billion in economic output, of which $2.03 billion was retained within Dubai’s GDP.
“2022 has been a particularly milestone year for global MICE, and Dubai’s ability to continue to sustain its pace of growth in this sector that has been through a transformative period showcasing revival post-pandemic, is testament to our ability to render sustained value to business participants,” concluded His Excellency Almarri.

Older
WIZZ AIR LAUNCHES TWO NEW ROUTES FROM LONDON GATWICK AIRPORT

Newer
Discover Palau, One of the World’s Last Remaining Frontiers,  with Four Seasons Explorer More

Visit Malta has been announced as the official headline sponsors of The Travel United Cup 2023.
The tournament will give attendees exclusive access to the home of English football, St. George’s Park, which is generally closed to the public – whilst also giving attendees the opportunity to experience playing on the iconic David Beckham Pitch and some down-time in the Club England Suite. The event, which will help raise money for Just a Drop and the Street Soccer Foundation, is a once in a lifetime opportunity that will unite the travel industry through football.Visit Malta’s sponsorship of The Travel United Cup 2023 demonstrates their commitment to using travel as a force for good whilst also supporting the travel industry in coming together for a unique and exciting event.Tolene van der Merwe, Director UK & Ireland, Malta Tourism Authority said “We are thrilled to confirm our headline sponsorship of the inaugural Travel United Cup with Just a Drop and the Street Soccer Foundation. Visit Malta has a strong affiliation with football through our ongoing sponsorship of Manchester United and we are looking forward to our trade partners and agents getting their teams together to be crowned the first Travel United Cup champions. Travel agents have been a vital support to the recovery of Malta in this post-pandemic world and we are always keen to support trade focused events and initiatives. Not only will this be the battle for the best in the travel industry, but it will also be supporting the vital work of two incredible charities who are changing lives across the world, we look forward to watching the winning team lift the trophy on 7th July.”.Just a Drop, an international water charity in the travel industry, invites professionals from the industry to join The Travel United Cup 2023, to be held on Friday, 7th July 2023. The event is held in partnership with the Street Soccer Foundation.The Street Soccer Foundation is an award-winning sport-for-change charity operating throughout England using football as a catalyst to help educate, up-skill and inspire disadvantaged children and vulnerable and homeless young people in communities nationwide.Andrew Mabbutt, the force behind this event, says, “I am thrilled that Visit Malta have chosen to be the inaugural headline sponsor for this amazing event. We have planned a fantastic day for the travel industry to enjoy a football experience whilst at the same time contributing to making a huge positive difference to people’s lives. The power of football! The power of the travel industry!”.The event will see 16 teams from across the industry battle it out for the title of Travel United Cup Champions. Places are selling fast, with some great brands including EasyJet Holidays and Audley Travel already registered.To enter the tournament, you will need to a team of 7-10 people and sign up through Just a Drop’s website here: https://www.justadrop.org/Event/the-travel-united-cup-2023 or by emailing Ruth Mileham, [email protected]

Older
Malaysia’s SKS Airways selects Embraer’s E195-E2 to drive growth More

For the second year in a row, Internova Travel Group will be the headline sponsor for PROUD Experiences, the world’s leading lifestyle and luxury LGBTQ+ travel industry event, organized by RX (Reed Exhibitions), which takes place June 5-7 in Los Angeles.LGBTQ+ travelers are a growing segment within the travel and tourism industry, representing more than $218 billion worldwide pre-pandemic. Internova is one of the world’s largest travel services companies, and the more than 100,000 travel advisors it represents worldwide are rising to the challenge of creating experiences for this discerning group of travelers.
Albert Herrera, Internova’s Executive Vice President, Partner Relations, said: “Partnering with events like PROUD Experiences helps us better understand the LGBTQ+ traveler. It strengthens our relationships with travel suppliers; ensures that we are planning journeys to places where members of the LGBTQ+ community will be safe and welcomed; keeps us up to date on the newest, most exciting experiences and destinations around the world; and gives the travel advisors across all of our brands the support and tools they need to provide exceptional service to their clients.”
The sold-out gathering will feature more than 180 international, regional and local travel suppliers, including more than 60 new exhibitors, from seven continents. They range from brands such as 21c Museum Hotels, Six Senses and Small Luxury Hotels of the World to independent hotels like Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France, and many more. New destinations include Tahiti, Visit Buenos Aires and Santa Monica Tourism. Buyers from more than 10 countries will be at the event and take part in more than 30 one-on-one appointments.
Masterclasses, led by U.S.-based and international speakers, will cover a range of topics, including the effectiveness of authentic engagement with LGBTQ+ travelers and the importance of attracting, elevating and working with diverse voices in an inclusive environment; all-women panels highlighting the necessity of creating safe and welcoming spaces in the culinary, wellness, and sporting worlds; establishing an LGBTQ+ strategy; helping suppliers create an inclusive LGBTQ+ welcome; and suggestions for buyers who want to develop LGBTQ+ business.
Discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression is an all-too-familiar reality for those in the LGBTQ+ community. PROUD Experiences brings together leaders from the travel and lifestyle sectors to network, share knowledge and do business. The event features engaging, interactive sessions and brings all of the debate about LGBTQ+ travel to the table.ADVERTISEMENT“This will be the largest gathering of industry professionals meeting to do business together in support of the LGBTQ+ traveler, and we’re thrilled that Internova Travel Group is joining us once again as headline sponsor,” said Simon Mayle, PROUD Experiences Event Director. “LGBTQ+ adults are leading the way in post-pandemic travel, and Internova travel advisors are vital partners in helping to meet their needs.”

Older
Pet Releaf Shares Insights as Pet Owners Prepare For Summer

Newer
Shangri-La Launches Global “Find Your Shangri-La” Campaign More

The Maldives’ bright new star, Nova, is delighted to unleash a shoal of eco-inspired activities and events in celebration of World Ocean Day 2023. 
The soulful island’s agenda will foster interest and awareness for guests and team members, from fascinating talk about marine life, to a series of sustainable initiatives. The celebration will start with a lagoon and house reef clean-up around the natural island to collect any plastic and debris for recycling. Guests will be invited into Nova’s coral adoption program to learn about the importance of coral reef restoration and rehabilitation, as well as the environmental threats facing the tropical archipelago. They will have the opportunity to plant corals around the reef and even to adopt one. 
An awareness-raising session will also follow, where the Co-founder of Miyaru, Hamna Hussain will provide insight about the new non-profit organisation working at the intersection of humans and sharks. The Miyaru program is dedicated to the research and conservation of the understudied, predatory shark populations of the Maldives. Hamna will highlight environmental issues they face, along with captivating facts about the Maldives diverse ecosystem and its vibrant underwater world. 
Located in the South Ari Atoll, a world-renowned whale shark and manta ray hotspot, Nova will take guests on an eco-conscious whale shark excursion, where they will have the chance to swim alongside them and to learn more about the majestic gentle giants’ dynamics, and protecting and preserving them. Moreover, guests will be invited to join the ocean art competition, conducted by local talented artist, where they can unleash their creativity with their own depiction of the awe-inspiring beauty of the Maldivian marine life. Finally, guests can compete in a quiz to nurture their knowledge on the ocean life, with a prize awaiting the winner.
Through commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible tourism, Nova is taking on the responsibility of safeguarding the astounding beauty for generations to come. Nova’s promise to ever-improve its efforts to reduce its environmental footprint, and use mindfulness to keep sustainability at the core of everything the soulful island does.  ADVERTISEMENTFor more information, visit www.nova-maldives.com.

Older
UNWTO Identifies Priorities for Boosting Rural Tourism Potential More

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) and Warrior Expeditions were joined by members of Congress at the U.S. Capitol to celebrate the departure of six wartime veterans as they embark on a cross-country bike ride to process and heal from the mental health impacts of their deployments. The riders began their journey at the eastern endpoint of the Great American Rail-Trail, RTC’s flagship project to connect a cross-country, multiuse trail, and will conquer 3,700 miles before reaching their ultimate finish in La Push, Washington, later this summer.“When we introduced the Great American Rail-Trail four years ago, we knew that this grand vision to connect a trail across the country would capture the imagination of the nation,” said Ryan Chao, president of RTC. “The veterans who have taken park in this ride previously have shared that the journey has brought solace and healing, alongside hope that comes from connecting with the people, places and rich heritage that makes up the American landscape. Their experience is an inspiration and we’re proud that the infrastructure we’re helping to build can support their expedition.”
Warrior Expeditions is a nonprofit organization that emphasizes the therapeutic value of long-distance outdoor expeditions to help veterans transition from their wartime experiences. Veterans apply to be included in one of several expedition teams, including long-distance hikes, paddles and the Warrior Bike, which exclusively takes place on the Great American Rail-Trail. As part of the program, psychologists partner with Warrior Expeditions to research and publish the effects of long-term outdoor and wilderness experiences, like the Warrior Bike Expedition, on combat veterans.
“Warrior Expeditions is excited to support another group of veterans along the Great American Rail Trail for the third consecutive year,” said Sean Gobin, founder and executive director of Warrior Expeditions. “These rides allow our veterans to find peace and healing in nature while simultaneously experiencing a cross section of America. We also very much appreciate RTC’s work to make the route better and better each year.”
Veterans participating in the 2023 Warrior Bike include Stephanie Buffett of Riner, Virginia (United States Air Force, deployed to Afghanistan); Timothy Davis of Lake Zurich, Illinois (United States Air Force, deployed to Afghanistan); Brittany Greene of Tacoma, Washington (United States Army, deployed to Afghanistan); Aaron Ledbetter of Cottage Grove, Oregon (United States Army, deployed to Afghanistan); Charles Sonnenberg of New Braunfels, Texas (United States Air Force, deployed to Iraq); and Jared Thomas of Huntington, West Virginia (United States Army, deployed to Afghanistan).
“I’m hoping that this journey enables me to deepen my understanding of myself and my connection to the world. I anticipate working through a continuous series of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual challenges that have the potential to become significant personal growth opportunities,” said Brittany Greene, former U.S. Army CBRN Officer from Tacoma, Washington.ADVERTISEMENTp > 

Older
HOTEL LOTTE embarks on a new 50-year legacy building upon its 50-year heritage

Newer
Renaissance Hotels Embraces the Coastal City of Porto More

Today, world-renowned Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Magazine hit stands, featuring Dominica, the Caribbean’s ‘Nature Island,’ as one of this year’s key destinations. Earlier this year, Sports Illustrated announced Dominica as a participating destination for the first time, releasing a sneak peak of models Sixtine Rouyre and Melissa Wood-Tepperberg’s shoot. Famous for hiking, diving, whale watching and being the hot spa capital of the Caribbean, Dominica is best known for its unsurpassed natural beauty, making it a perfect backdrop for the acclaimed magazine’s models.

Participating models were photographed at Dominica’s most popular destinations, including Batibou Beach, Scotts Head, Hampstead Beach, and Jacko Falls, as well as the InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa and Jungle Bay Hotel. This year’s talent included the iconic Leyna Bloom, Kamie Crawford, Christen Harper, Padma Lakshmi, Yumi Nu, Olivia Ponton, and Nicole Williams English, in addition to Sixtine Rouyre and Melissa Wood-Tepperberg.
“As Dominica receives more worldwide recognition as a premier travel destination, we are thrilled to have been chosen as a location for this year’s issue of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Magazine,” said Hon. Minister of Tourism Denise Charles. “This feature represents a huge success for our island, and we are hopeful that it entices more travelers to visit.”
Located along Douglas Bay on the island’s northwest side, the newly branded IHG Hotel Group 151-room InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa offers a unique and luxurious stay for travelers with its four outdoor pools, expansive spa, fitness center, beach access, and 8,500 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space to accommodate corporate events. Located in Soufriere, Jungle Bay Hotel includes private cabanas, yoga and wellness packages, award-winning dining and is also certified at the highest level for sustainable tourism and quality standards with Dominica’s Nature Island Standards of Excellence (NISE).ADVERTISEMENTDiscover Dominica Authority thanks its stakeholders who helped make this vision a reality, including The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, The Ministry of Tourism, Intercontinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, Jungle Bay, Island Locations, and the friendly people of Dominica who helped provide an unforgettable experience for visitors.

For more information on Dominica, visit Dominica’s official website at www.discoverdominica.com, explore the destination’s YouTube Page and follow Dominica on Instagram and Facebook. For more details on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue, please visit https://swimsuit.si.com/.

Older
Global Humane Provides Animal Welfare Certification to SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Newer
HOTEL LOTTE embarks on a new 50-year legacy building upon its 50-year heritage More

Today, Global Humane—the international brand of American Humane and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare—joined leaders of SeaWorld and Miral in Washington, D.C. to announce the certification of both SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue, Abu Dhabi.
It’s the first Global Humane certification in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and signifies the high standard of animal care provided at the marine life theme park and rescue facility located adjacent to the park.
The event took place at the National Press Club and included remarks from SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, owner and operator of Yas SeaWorld Abu Dhabi Miral, and Global Humane celebrating the milestone for animal welfare. The park in Abu Dhabi is set to open its doors on May 23.
For more than a hundred years American Humane has been first in promoting the welfare and safety of animals and strengthening the bond between animals and people. The organization is behind many important animal welfare initiatives, including the “No Animals Were Harmed®” program in Hollywood.
“We are thrilled that SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue have met the standards to become Global Humane Certified,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of Global Humane. “SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will give residents of the United Arab Emirates a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the ocean up close—helping to inspire the next generation of conservationists. This is SeaWorld’s first location abroad and provides Global Humane with the opportunity to recognize the extensive reach of the animal welfare movement at zoos, aquariums, and conservation parks around the world.”ADVERTISEMENTRigorous Certification Standards:
To receive Global Humane Certification, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue have both passed a rigorous third-party assessment—which after months of preparation—reviewed the well-being of animals in the park and center’s care. The unique process is guided by the latest science and is informed by respected veterinarians and experts in the fields of animal welfare, animal science, zoology, and ethics that have decades of experience in protecting animals.
The independent validation process—which goes above and beyond to help protect animals—provides park visitors with the confidence the institution is meeting a high benchmark of care. The process includes a pre-audit application period that is followed up by an onsite visit that assesses animal welfare. Factors considered during the audit include, but are not limited to, housing, food, water, lighting, shade, sound, activity levels, and the training of staff who are interacting with the animals. The specific benchmarks are species specific.
Dr. Chris Dold, Chief Zoological Officer of SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment said, “American Humane is a well-respected independent animal welfare organization whose rigorous standards ensure that animals live healthy and safe lives in human care. For nearly 60 years our parks have played an important role in inspiring and educating the public about marine animals and providing exceptional standards of care is integral to that mission. We share American Humane’s passion and commitment to the well-being of animals as validated by meeting and exceeding their certification standards in all our U.S. parks. We are proud to now receive Global Humane certification for the first SeaWorld outside of the U.S. as we extend our mission to the United Arab Emirates where the Arabian gulf is an important marine ecosystem and integral to the fabric of the Abu Dhabi community.”
“At Miral Experiences, we are dedicated to delivering world-class attractions that go beyond entertainment to deliver truly exceptional guest experiences. With SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, this extends to us innovatively educating our guests and demonstrating our commitment towards sustainability and animal welfare” said Julien Kauffman, CEO of Miral Experiences. “The Global Humane certification for SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is a testament to our commitment to these values and a celebration of our collective milestones and achievements. We believe that by offering an immersive and educational experience, we can inspire our guests to become lifelong champions of marine life and the environment. Our partnership with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment and our certification by Global Humane reinforces our dedication to raising the standard for animal welfare and sustainability in the region and around the world.”
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. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi was yet again named the World’s Leading Theme Park 2022 and Middle East’s Leading Theme Park 2022, while the Emirati-themed waterpark Yas Waterworld, was recognised as Middle East’s Leading Water Park 2022 and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, was named as Middle East’s Leading Tourist Attraction 2022. Across the awards, the record-breaking adventure hub CLYMB Abu Dhabi, with the world’s largest indoor flight chamber and the region’s tallest indoor climbing wall, was awarded the accolade of Middle East’s Leading Adventure Tourist Attraction 2022.

Older
ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S SUN-SATIONAL 2024-25 AUSTRALIAN SUMMER ON SALE NOW

Newer
DOMINICA FEATURED IN 2023 SPORTS ILLUSTRATED SWIMSUIT ISSUE More