Events, Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

Emilia Romagna’s ever-popular Motor Valley Fest, the premier celebration of automotive excellence, is gearing up for its sixth edition, set to take place 2-5 May in the UNESCO-listed city of Modena. This year promises to be an exhilarating experience for enthusiasts and visitors alike, with the main focus being on autonomous vehicles, AI and e-sports.Celebrating the rich automotive legacy of Emilia Romagna, Motor Valley Fest is a grand open-air extravaganza that brings together the best of Italian motoring excellence, iconic brands, and passionate enthusiasts. From sleek supercars to vintage classics, the festival offers a captivating journey through the evolution of automotive engineering and design.
The 2024 edition of Motor Valley Fest brings with it a host of exciting news and highlights. Visitors can expect:
Autonomous vehicles: Get a glimpse of the future with autonomous cars on display. Experience the intersection of technology and mobility.AI innovations: Discover how artificial intelligence is shaping the automotive landscape: from smart navigation to predictive maintenance.E-Sports: Motor Valley Fest embraces e-sports, where virtual racers compete for glory. Witness the adrenaline rush of digital motorsport.As in previous editions, the 2024 programme will also feature conferences, round tables, exhibitions, parades, test drives and educational labs – plus food tastings for visitors to make the most of their experience.
Motor Valley Fest revs its engines in the heart of the “Motor Valley”, spread across the UNESCO-city of Modena and surroundings areas. The region is home to celebrated names such as Ferrari, Maserati, Pagani, Dallara, Ducati and Lamborghini. There is no other place in the world with such a rich motor heritage.
Beyond the excitement of the festival, visitors to Emilia Romagna can indulge in the region’s renowned culinary delights, picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From exploring historic cities like Modena and Bologna, to savouring the authentic flavours of Italian cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant region.ADVERTISEMENTMotor Valley Fest will be followed by the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix (17-19 May), held at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari for its fifth edition.
For more information, please visit the festival’s official website:

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The State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine (SATD) has unveiled a new campaign entitled “We Are Here: Brave Hearts of Ukraine” during the ITB Congress in Berlin.
Since the war with Russia began just over two years ago world attention has been distracted away from the ongoing fighting. With this new campaign Mariana Oleskiv, Chair of the SATD wants to remind the global travel community that Ukraine still has a proud tourism industry and that they are on a journey to revitalise Ukraine’s tourism sector despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict. As part of this campaign, the SATD unveiled a poignant video symbolising its unwavering resilience and readiness to welcome visitors with open arms as soon as peace prevails. The video unveiled at this year’s ITB Congress serves as the cornerstone of SATD’s strategy to reignite interest in Ukrainian tourism in the future, emphasising its determination to share the nation’s beauty and hospitality with travellers from around the globe. From the vibrant streets of Kyiv to the enchanting landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains, from the bustling port city of Odesa to the charming architecture of Lviv, Ukraine offers a diverse array of experiences waiting to be explored. The campaign video was inspired by the iconic video filmed by a defiant President Zelensky on the first night of Russia’s Invasion declaring “we are all here”. The video showcased at ITB builds on this message profiling Ukrainians that previously worked in the travel and tourism industry and now work towards the war effort. The message of the campaign is that Ukraine is still there, with all its cities, nature and culture waiting for the world to explore when the conflict is finally over.  Mariana Oleskiv, Chairperson of the State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine said: When people think of Ukraine, they think of a country that is decimated by war. With this campaign we want to show people that this is not the case. Ukraine is a beautiful country, with a rich history and culture, breathtaking landscapes, and incredible cuisine. It’s a country filled with people ready to welcome visitors as soon as it’s safe to do so. With this campaign we want to change the narrative of Ukraine and show people that there is so much to explore when the time is right to do so. We are dedicated to rebuilding Ukraine as a tourism destination. We are working on plans to rebuild our infrastructure, our hotels, resorts and attractions for when it is safe for international visitors to return to Ukraine. We’re dedicated to creating jobs in tourism which will be so very important for the restoration of the tourism industry after our victory, and we need people to visit Ukraine and to help us with that recovery.
This campaign presents a unique opportunity for us to showcase Ukraine’s resilience and the indomitable spirit of our people as well as the incredible offering we have for visitors. The video presents a side of Ukraine that reflects our bravery and the ongoing fight for our country’s future.Despite facing adversity, Ukrainians stand united in their commitment to preserving their heritage and promoting Ukraine as a welcoming and vibrant destination that should be on every future travelers’ bucket list.” Link to video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RmV3uW0IRg

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World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (‘WSTHA’) Advisory Board unveils categories More

The World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA) has unveiled 21 categories for its inaugural global programme, which aims to recognise and share the stories of individuals and organisations making an impactful contribution in sustainable travel and tourism.The categories have been selected by an Advisory Board made up of 11 leaders in sustainable travel and tourism to reflect the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and net positive framework of People, Planet, Place, Prosperity and Partnerships.
The categories range from conservation, energy efficiency and community engagement to education and leaders of tomorrow. Three categories will be open to Belize-based individuals and organisations. For a full list of the categories visit here. Global entries to the Awards will be invited from 18 March.
The announcement was made at ITB Berlin by Evan Tillett, Director of Tourism, Belize Tourism Board, the Official Host Destination of the inaugural WSTHA Gala Ceremony, which will be held on 27 September 2024.
Justin Cooke, Executive Vice-President, WSTHA says: “It is often said that we do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. With the help of our incredible Advisory Board we hope that these categories reflect the breadth and depth of the sustainable travel and hospitality sector, enabling us to recognise and tell the stories of those accelerating change and making a sustainable impact on our planet for the next generation.”
As Official Host Destination of WSTHA 2024, Belize holds responsible tourism at its core and develops projects that encourage travellers to engage with its rainforests, reefs and unique culture in a sustainable manner. This includes developing sustainable initiatives such as creating community-based tourism clusters that preserve Indigenous Communities.  Belize is also internationally recognised for the preservation of its UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest reef globally, home to hundreds of species of coral and fish. ADVERTISEMENTAnthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism, Belize, adds: “The Advisory Board, WSTHA and Belize have been working together to ensure the categories recognise, celebrate and showcase the stories of organisations and individuals that are making significant steps in sustainable travel and tourism. The 21 categories are extensive and also includes three categories that are open to submissions from Belize, including cultural heritage, marine conservation and community engagement – three areas that Belize holds at the core of our tourism model and is leading the way in.”
The WSTHA programme is run in partnership with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance with CEO, Glenn Mandziuk, also serving as Vice-Chair on the WSTHA Advisory Board.
Glenn Mandziuk, CEO, the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, comments; “In an era where sustainability is not just a choice but a necessity, it is crucial to highlight and celebrate the remarkable initiatives and accomplishments within our sector. The awards categories announced today reflect on the cornerstone elements of our Net Positive framework, honouring those who are making a substantial impact and driving change in sustainable travel and tourism. As WSTHA Vice-Chair of the Advisory Board, I am privileged to collaborate with industry leaders, and eagerly anticipate sharing the achievements that tell the important narratives of sustainable progress.”
In another world first for the Awards, entries will be analysed and vetted by students of sustainable business from the Nova School of Business and Economics in Lisbon.
Graham Miller, Professor of Sustainable Business, Nova School of Business and Economics, says: “I am delighted that students from Nova School of Business and Economics are able to support these awards. Having future leaders involved in reviewing applications from current leaders is an excellent example of collaboration across generations and widening the diversity of how decisions are made.”
The WSTHA Advisory Board comprises leading authorities, academics and dignitaries in driving net positive hospitality. Members include Chris Imbsen, World Travel & Tourism Council; Susan Hooper, Chapter Zero; Juha Jarvinen, Virgin Atlantic; Patricio Azcárate Díaz de Losada, Responsible Tourism Institute; Fran Brasseux, International Council on Hotel, Restaurant & Institutional Education; Hon. Anthony Mahler, Belize; Prof. Dr. Willy Legrand, IU International University of Applied Sciences Germany; Isabel Novoa, International Social Tourism Organization; Prof. Graham Miller, Nova School of Business & Economics, Lisbon; Xenia zu Hohenlohe, The Sustainable Markets Initiative.

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ITB day One – A great start to the event and BTN was there to capture the best images.

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UKRAINE SHOWCASE “WE ARE HERE” CAMPAIGN WITH POIGNANT VIDEO AT ITB BERLIN More

Oman has planned to invest over US$31bn by 2040 in the tourism sector, H E Azzan al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism, stated at ITB Berlin.The sultanate has planned to invest over US$31bn by 2040 in the tourism sector, H E Azzan al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism in the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), stated in Berlin, Germany on Monday.
He made the comments at a press conference held to kickstart Oman’s participation in the ITB Berlin tourism trade fair.
H E Busaidi elaborated on Oman’s strategy to utilise the platform provided by ITB Berlin to highlight its rich tourism offerings and future projects with the aim of drawing global attention to the sultanate’s diverse attractions.
Year 2023 marked a significant uptick in tourism for Oman, with the sultanate welcoming 4mn visitors, of which 231,000 were German tourists – up 182%  from 2022.
The undersecretary underscored the ministry’s dedication to creating a favourable environment for tourism expansion. Efforts include streamlining visa procedures and easing restrictions for travellers from over 100 countries. Additionally, Oman is channeling more than US$5.9bn into 360 projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and enriching tourist experiences.ADVERTISEMENTDr Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin, the organiser of ITB Berlin, said he was honoured to welcome Oman as the host nation at the exhibition. He informed that plans for Oman’s participation had been in the works for years, delayed only by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Source: Zawya.com

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Qatar Airways Raises the Curtain on the Future of Travel at ITB Berlin 2024

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The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Hotel Sustainability Basics (Basics), the global initiative helping hoteliers on their first steps to improve their sustainability ratings, has reached a significant milestone with over 1,700 hotels verified across 70 countries worldwide.In her speech at ITB Berlin, WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson celebrated the achievement and highlighted the commitment of the industry towards a more sustainable future. Basics is a key pillar to making hotels more sustainable and giving the public an at-glance verification.
Hotels groups from major Travel & Tourism destinations such as France, China, Mexico, India, Germany, South Africa, Philippines, and Norway, amongst many others, have joined the groundbreaking initiative.
Major hotel brands which have now adopted ‘Basics’ include Jin Jiang, one of the world’s biggest hotel groups with more than 10,000 hotels, European hotel giant Louvre Hotel Group, Choice Hotels, and Radisson Hotel Group.
During its inaugural year, Hotel Sustainability Basics also gained endorsements from destinations worldwide, including the Caribbean, Mauritius, Colombia, UAE, Azerbaijan, Mexico, and Ecuador.
Other major Travel & Tourism brands joining the initiative include adventure travel specialist Intrepid, British Airways Holidays, HBX Group, WebBeds and Abercrombie & Kent.ADVERTISEMENTThis independent global sustainability verification programme, overseen by internationally recognised verifiers Green Key and SGS, empowers hotels of all sizes to follow a 12-step programme aimed at reducing carbon emissions, promoting nature conservation, and ensuring local communities benefit from the hotel’s operations.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Our goal is to have a globally recognised trademark that shows customers at a glance, that a hotel is supporting the planet by saving energy, cutting plastics, protecting nature, and supporting their local community. It is a win win.
‘We launched the scheme only a year ago and the uptake has been incredible. 70 countries have signed up with over 1700 properties verified with a long waiting list. It will bring lasting change.
‘I would like to thank Glen Mandziuk at the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, Randy Durband at GDST, along with our partners at the Azerbaijan Tourism Board for providing the intellectual rigour and drive to make this happen’
WTTC is committed to leading the charge in sustainable Travel & Tourism, following the demand of the industry, to further advance their work on globally aligned sustainability indicators, hand in hand with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance.

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World travel industry leaders flock to ITB Berlin 2024

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Visit Qatar is set to participate at ITB Berlin 2024, the world’s leading travel trade show. ITB hosts over 5,000 international exhibitors every year and is one of the most important events in the travel industry. His Excellency, Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, Chief Marketing and Promotions Officer at Qatar Tourism, along with a team of 28 delegates from travel and hospitality industries will be representing Visit Qatar this year.The ITB is a hub for informative, cultural, and inspirational B2B exchanges pertaining to travel, tourism, hospitality, and trade. Visit Qatar aims to foster several exchanges with key travel, trade, airline, and media partners to promote Qatar to key stakeholders in the European market. In addition, Visit Qatar anticipates fruitful discussions, trade meetings, new partnership deals, and opportunities.
Visit Qatar’s section will have meeting rooms, 28 regular booths, three corporate booths, and an area for Qatar Calendar. The interactive stand also features a calligrapher and Arabic coffee for visitors.
ITB will run from March 5 to 7 in Berlin, Germany. To keep up with the latest events in Qatar’s calendar, please visit www.visitqatar.com.
Source: https://www.zawya.com/

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ProColombia, the promotion agency of the country, part of the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Tourism, announces the 100th edition of its largest exports event, the Business Matchmaking Forum, which will take place in Colombia, at Cartagena’s Convention Center from April 22nd to 26th.As Colombia’s foremost international trade promotion activity, the Forum provides a platform for Colombian companies from diverse sectors to engage in one-on-one meetings with international buyers. This edition will host 2,000 exporters from all over Colombia, representing key sectors such as agri-business, textile and apparel, industries 4.0, and manufacturing. Additionally, there will be 1,000 buyers from 60 countries in attendance, the United States being the main commercial ally for the event and the country.
“Colombia, known as the Country of Beauty, boasts a rich variety of offerings beyond its globally recognized flowers, coffee, and avocados. The nation is a hub of innovation and industrial strength, offering strategic advantages for American buyers seeking diverse sourcing opportunities”, said Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia.
Colombia’s strategic position, being the only South American country with access to trade routes in both the Pacific and the Caribbean front, is accentuated by its nearshoring capabilities and low minimum production costs, making it an attractive trade destination. The country’s economy displays dynamism across sectors such as metalworking, manufacturing, textiles, and apparel, presenting sourcing opportunities for international partners.
Moreover, Colombia’s thriving tech sector further amplifies its appeal, positioning the country as a prime collaborator for U.S. tech companies.
These are some of the reasons why American buyers attending conferences in Colombia have praised the nation for its quality products, diversity, creativity, sustainability, and excellent service, indicating the potential for fruitful and mutually beneficial business relationships.ADVERTISEMENTThe first Business Matchmaking Forum by ProColombia took place in 1997 in Cartagena, with the participation of 200 international buyers and 400 Colombian exporters. This edition aims to showcase to the world the evolution of the regions and the business ecosystem of Colombia.
Beyond the Forum, Colombia invites you to explore its beauty. From diverse wildlife and stunning scenery to delicious food, Colombia has it all. With excellent flight connections, traveling there is easy for both business and leisure.
Spots are limited and registrations are open until March 9th. Discover all the opportunities that Colombia has to offer: https://mcr.macrorruedasprocolombia.co/macrorrueda100/index.php?tu=comp&ci=4

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To mark St David’s Day, welsh-based rail tour specialist Ffestiniog Travel has announced a second Snowdonian Steam Special weekend break in September 2024. The highlight will be a journey on the aptly named Snowdonian train on an 80-mile trip through North Wales’ spectacular Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. Travel the full length of both the Welsh Highland and Ffestiniog Railways over the course of one unforgettable day and help raise funds for the Diamond Jubilee Appeal to support the continued preservation of the railways. The 3-day break also includes an in-depth tour of the famous Boston Lodge Workshops. Beginning on 20 September and costing £515pp (two sharing) it includes 2 nights’ B&B 4* accommodation in Porthmadog, 1 dinner and 1 lunch plus a Snowdonian souvenir. Option to upgrade to a luxury stay at nearby Hotel Portmeirion in the famous Italianate village. https://www.ffestiniogtravel.com/tailored-rail/uk/the-snowdonian

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