Events, Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

The Maldives has won the title of ‘Best Long-Haul Destination of the Year’’ in the UK’s Food and Travel Magazine Reader Awards 2022. The Maldives secured the title competing against destinations such as Canada, Ecuador, Fiji, Japan, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, South Korea and the Caribbean.The magazine’s Food and Travel Magazine Reader Awards had been a highlight in the hospitality and travel industry since its inception. It celebrates and acknowledges the ‘crème de la crème’ in the tourism sector’s food and beverages industry with distinguished awards conferred in 23 categories including the best restaurants; chefs; hotels; destinations; tour operators; and cruise companies and airlines.
The UK remains one of the top source markets to the Maldives throughout the years. As of 22 January 2023, the UK ranked as the 3rd top source market for the Maldives this year with 10,025 arrivals (8.2% of the market share). In 2022, the Maldives recorded a 185.6% increase in arrivals from the UK with 179,309 tourists. MMPRC has held several activities in this market last year to maintain destination momentum. This includes participation in major fairs such as WTM London 2022; destination roadshows in London, Manchester & Newcastle; joint marketing campaigns such as the campaign with British Airways; marketing and brand awareness campaigns with travel agents, tour operators, and media outlets; and familiarisation trips. Many similar activities are planned to be held throughout 2023 for this market as well.In 2022, MMPRC conducted a total number of 178 marketing activities. This included over 90 marketing campaigns, attending 44 fairs, hosting 06 roadshows, 10 virtual events, 18 familiarisation trips, and 10 other events executed worldwide. The national tourist arrivals target set by H.E President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih for the year 2022 was also reached in December 2022, as the Maldives welcomed our 1.6 millionth visitor for the year two weeks ahead of the end of the year. In addition to this, the Maldives secured the title of the ‘World’s Leading Destination’ for the third year in a row in 2022 at World Travel Awards. MMPRC was also awarded the prestigious title of ‘World’s Leading Tourist Board’ for the first time in our nation’s history.

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New director of operations at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

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Following two weeks of exciting and highly creative submissions by hopeful applicants from all over the world, Yas Island Abu Dhabi has now announced its latest ambassador. With thousands of online applications from across over 100 countries, Ayax Bader, a marketeer from Argentina and a resident of the UAE, has shown the judges why he deserves the World’s Best Job. Taghreed Alsaeed, Group Communications & Destination Marketing at Miral Group, presented Ayax with the coveted prize at Yas Island’s Yas Marina Circuit HQ.
Earlier in January, the competition witnessed five shortlisted candidates with the potential to Hart-ify Yas Island; the final five received immense support and engagement from the audience. The competition saw the highest ever engagement recorded on social media for the brand.

Today, Ayax has proven that he is ready to make the island hart-to-beat. With a $100,000 salary and a luxurious hotel stay in addition to exciting perks in store, stay tuned for how Ayax takes on Yas Island, the world’s premier leisure and tourism destination, where visitors get to experience a whole new level of entertainment.
Yas island was awarded World’s Leading Theme Park Destination 2022 at last year’s World Travel Awards ADVERTISEMENTFor more information, please visit: https://www.yasisland.com/

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According to the latest data from leading travel app Expedia®, travelers are already planning their spring getaways, eyeing everything from Caribbean beach escapes to Alaskan cruises.Flight searches for March and April travel are up 40%1 compared to the same time frame last year, with interest in international destinations like Punta Cana, Paris and Tokyo up double-digits compared to Spring Break 2022. While average ticket prices are higher than last year, price-conscious travelers will still find savings by avoiding the busiest travel dates, choosing less crowded destinations and taking advantage of package discounts. Despite the rising cost of airfare, it is still possible to plan a spring getaway that doesn’t break the bank. Heading to a city destination will be cheaper – and likely less crowded – than a trip to an international beach resort. Regardless of the destination, travelers can stretch their dollars by following these tips:
Avoid peak dates in order to save: According to booking data, traveling during the first week of March (before March 9) or after April 16 will allow travelers to take advantage of the lowest airfares of the season. The busiest travel days during the period are March 10–11, and the priciest are Saturdays, March 25 and April 1.Depart on a weekday: During the spring travel period, travelers can save an average of more than 20% on round-trip airfare when departing on a Tuesday instead of a Saturday, plus enjoy shorter lines at the airport.Take advantage of pre-summer shoulder season: After mid-April, average ticket prices are expected to stabilize before the summer travel season ramps up. For those with flexible schedules, late April to mid-May is a great time to head to Europe or enjoy a domestic city escape at a lower price.Find the sweet spot: In most cases, booking about a month before domestic flights helps travelers save money on airfare, but when in doubt it’s wise to set up price alerts as soon as there’s a destination in mind. The Price Tracking and Prediction feature on the Expedia app uses machine learning to predict the best time to book and notifies travelers when flight prices drop.*How to Save on Lodging and Car Rental
Lodging and car rental rates remain relatively flat2 compared to Spring Break 2022. Savvy travelers can use these tips to score more value:
Book accommodations 30–45 days out: While around 64% of spring breakers tend to lock in hotels 90+ days in advance, the ones who wait tend to get better deals. Expedia lodging data shows that, historically, booking hotels closer to a month out yields savings of around $30 per night.2Snag package savings: Bundling flights, hotel and car rental together on the Expedia app saves travelers an average of around 10%, or $300, and makes trip-planning easier.**Compare pick-up spots: Expedia data shows rates near cities tend to be cheaper than the average while rates near national parks and ski destinations are among the priciest.2 Off-airport lots can also be cheaper than picking up at the airport due to lower operating costs, so it pays to shop around.Spring Break Destination Guide
Travelers seek to broaden their horizons this year, causing international beach destinations like Puerto Vallarta (+25%) and Punta Cana (+30%), along with culture capitals like Rome (+20%), Paris (+50%) and Tokyo (+55%) to see major spikes in flight searches.1 ADVERTISEMENTSpring breakers looking to stay closer to home but avoid busy beach destinations are flying to their favorite big North American cities including New York City (+5%) and Montreal (+40%) or unplugging in nature in places like Banff National Park (+40%) and Jackson Hole (+60%).1 Cruises are also picking up steam for spring break. Demand for spring cruises to Alaska, for example, is up nearly 25% compared to the same time frame last year while demand for European cruises gains momentum going into the summer.3
Still need help figuring out where to go this spring? Expedia’s experts rounded up ten places to visit, including exciting domestic hotspots with airfare (ATP) under $350 and international bucket-list destinations under $700. Hotel prices (ADR) at these destinations remain under $350 per night.2
Fort LauderdaleTorontoLos AngelesNew York CityPortlandSan JuanPhuketCopenhagenLisbonReykjavik

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THE YEAR OF CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

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When Cirque du Soleil created its first permanent Las Vegas production with Mystère™ at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino in 1993, founder Guy Laliberté said his fledgling circus troupe wanted to “grow a flower in the desert.” Safe to say that flower became a bouquet even he couldn’t have imagined.
This year, the world-renowned entertainment group will celebrate significant milestone anniversaries for three of its Las Vegas resident productions: Michael Jackson ONE™ at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino marking 10 years in June, “O™” at Bellagio Resort & Casino celebrating 25 years of aquatic brilliance in October and Mystère™, at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, the show that started it all, commemorating 30 years in December.
“These three remarkable shows illustrate the creative diversity and staying power that has transcended through Cirque du Soleil since the company began,” said Eric Grilly, President, Resident Shows Division and Affiliate Shows Division at Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group. “Each of these productions remain as vibrant, inspiring and popular as they did when they debuted, and that is a true testament both to the creators and the cast and crew who continue to dazzle audiences from around the world each night.”
Bobby Baldwin, former senior executive with Mirage Resorts and MGM Resorts, was a key figure in first introducing Cirque du Soleil to Las Vegas and said the impact of that partnership has forever changed what visitors expect from Las Vegas entertainment.
“When we began our partnership with Cirque du Soleil, we had great respect for the creative ambition of Guy Laliberté, Gilles Ste-Croix and Franco Dragone,” said Baldwin. “There was never a question they would create a special entertainment experience, even for Las Vegas, where the bar is quite high. What they did was immediately change the entertainment landscape of the city. And then Cirque du Soleil did it again. And then again. And I don’t doubt they will continue to do so for decades to come. They made history, and it’s gratifying to have been part of that.”ADVERTISEMENTAs part of the year-long celebration, Cirque du Soleil is offering one lucky person a once-in-a-lifetime all-inclusive VIP experience for two in Las Vegas. The “Big 30” sweepstakes winner and their guest will travel like a celebrity via first-class flight and stay in a luxury room at one of Las Vegas’ finest hotels. The winner will receive VIP treatment with exclusive backstage access to all six Las Vegas Cirque du Soleil shows, and be transported to and around the Las Vegas Strip in a luxurious limousine from the moment the plane lands until the extravaganza experience comes to an end. For more details and to enter the sweepstakes, click here.
Setting the stage for Cirque du Soleil’s overwhelming success in Las Vegas, Mystère has been seen by over 17 million fans with more than 13,000 shows performed since its first performance in 1993. The original must-see Cirque du Soleil production pushes the boundaries of what dreams and artistry can achieve when fusing together high-energy acrobatics with evocative choreography.
Since opening in 1998, “O” has performed over 11,000 performances featuring breathtaking acrobatics under, on and above the water creating an unparalleled experience that engages the audience’s imagination and sense of wonder. The unique production that has been seen by more than 18 million fans delivers an innovative display of spectacular acrobats and artistic swimmers, including Olympians who perform 60-foot-high dives into a 1.5 million-gallon pool, taking the show to new heights night after night.
Inspired by the King of Pop, Michael Jackson ONE premiered in 2013 and has been seen by over five million guests. The electrifying production continues to stun fans through a blend of dynamic acrobatics, dance, mesmerizing visuals and a state-of-the-art surround-sound theater immersing audiences into Jackson’s iconic discography.
Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9136851-cirque-du-soleil-celebrates-30-years-las-vegas/

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Some fifty tall ships from all over the world will be moored along the 7 kilometres of the Seine quay in Rouen for 10 days.
Held every four years, the Rouen Armada is a unique international maritime event with 6 million visitors, more than 30 nationalities and nearly 7,000 sailors.A tourist festival in the heart of Normandy: From 8 to 18 June, the tall ships can be visited free of charge and everyone can attend numerous events including the sailors’ parade in the city centre, the sailors’ race, the “boat” race, street performances, concerts, fireworks, the grand parade and much more.
A business destination: the Armada is also an opportunity for companies to rent the most prestigious sailing ships in the evening as venues for professional events.
The economic impact of the Armada is estimated at 50 million euros for the Normandy region.
Environmental protection: thanks to a charter signed with its partners and rigorous management of its commitments, the 2023 Armada will be an event with zero non-recycled waste and zero plastic pollution.ADVERTISEMENTAt the same time, the event will use its popularity to raise awareness about environmental issues related to oceans and rivers. First started in 2022, an annual scientific symposium is organised on World Oceans Day, 8 June, in partnership with the Ocean Institute of the Sorbonne University Alliance.
A cultural event: culture is also in the spotlight for this edition under the patronage of Michel Bussi, a famous French author translated into 37 languages.
The Rouen Armada is in essence a popular cultural event in the heart of Normandy, promoting maritime culture in the birthplace of Impressionism.
There will be street artists performing shows with a connection to maritime history and the Armada will help inspire exclusive short stories.

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OurAfrica.Travel Returns 20 – 24 February. Now in its 4th year this virtual B2B tradeshow provides a platform for those selling the African and Indian Ocean Islands, to connect, collaborate and plan for the year ahead from the convenience of your home or office.Aimed at ensuring five successful days of connecting, the platform is open to both exhibitors and buyers from the 8th of February so they can maximise their time, networking and setting themselves up for success, prior to its’ official start date of the 20th February.
“Hosting a virtual show of this nature allows for complete flexibility for both exhibitors and buyers while focusing on the purpose of the show in its purest form – to allow trade partners to have dedicated business-to-business meetings in a convenient and controlled manner” says Allie Hunt, co-owner of OurAfrica.Travel.
“The importance of connection among travel-trade partners is another driving force of the show. We are blessed to have partners, without whose support the show would not be as successful, and we believe that it is in part due to these collaborations that the show has stood out since the start” says Storm Napier, co-owner of OurAfrica.Travel.

Organisers of OurAfrica.Travel, Allie Hunt and Storm NapierADVERTISEMENTKicking off the 2023 trade show season, OurAfrica.Travel remains a hallmark event on the travel trade calendar. The OurAfrica.Travel team are expecting an exceptional turnout of trade partners who want to start the year by strengthening relationships and sharing what’s trending in the tourism space across the continent and islands.A sponsor of this year’s event is Wetu, a longtime believer that collaboration is what drives the travel industry. Leading with efficiency, Wetu has offered its support to the show since its inception – the two brands being very much aligned based on their belief that digital platforms remain an impactful and resourceful way for the travel industry to convert sales with up-to-date marketing material.
Wetu CEO, Paul de Waal, believes opportunities like OurAfrica.Travel that connect trade partners and colleagues are essential if we are to grow tourism.
“We belong to an industry that understands and thrives on collaboration. That connection has taken various forms over the past few years – returning somewhat to in-person connection, but still very much driven by digital connection due to its efficiency, cost and time saving attributes. We see Wetu as an enabler of that connection so partnering with a virtual show like OurAfrica.Travel is an instrumental way for us to deliver on that promise.”
Both Wetu and OurAfrica.Travel are also proud members of ATTA® the voice of African and Indian Ocean Islands Tourism, which supports businesses in Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands.

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Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is gearing up to host a Ferrari car parade, with more than 100 Ferrari cars set to cruise around the “World’s Leading Theme Park” on February 4th. Ferrari World has won the World Travel Awards category for World’s Leading Theme Park for the past 4 years, an incredible feat.
Fans looking to find that Ferrari feeling can watch the exciting show and immerse in the various award-winning rides at the park, including family-friendly attractions and unique Ferrari-branded experiences that are bound to delight.

Located on Yas Island, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is home to a variety of family-friendly rides and attractions. The park is located minutes away from Yas Waterworld, the world’s first and only Emirati-themed waterpark and Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest indoor theme park as well as CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s ultimate adventure hub.
For more information, please visit: www.ferrariworldabudhabi.comADVERTISEMENT

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In 2023, Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction is celebrating its milestone 50th anniversary with a full roster of exciting experiences, events, and a brand-new attraction, plus an official 50th birthday celebration on June 30, 2023.Over 117 million visitors have passed through Hershey’s Chocolate World’s doors since its official opening in 1973. For 50 years, families have delighted in the destination’s educational and entertaining attractions such as The Hershey’s Chocolate Tour, Create Your Own Candy Bar, Hershey Trolley Works, and Hershey’s Unwrapped. Join Hershey’s Chocolate World in 2023 to celebrate its 50th Anniversary with a variety of fun-filled, celebratory events including the Chocolate Sculpture Unveiling and Hershey’s Chocolate World Birthday Party, exclusive merch items, chocolate-y treats, and character meet and greets.
“Reaching a milestone such as a 50th anniversary is a testament to the visitors who have passed through Hershey’s Chocolate World, and the employees who make every experience so delightful,” said Suzanne Jones, Vice President of The Hershey Experience. “Each guest who visits Hershey’s Chocolate World this year can expect lots of excitement as we lead up to the unveiling of our newest attraction and welcome guests to take part in our most treasured traditions and new events to celebrate.”
The full slate of 50th Anniversary events include:
Happy 50th Birthday to Us, and You! January – December, 2023
Fans who were born in the year 1973 and visit Hershey’s Chocolate World at any time throughout the year can celebrate their birthday, too! Simply stop by the Ticketing desk at Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey, PA, to receive a sweet treat – a classic Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar. Happy 50th!ADVERTISEMENT50th Anniversary Kick Off and Chocolate Sculpture Dedication – February 4, 2023
During the 50th anniversary kick-off event and Chocolate Sculpture Dedication, guests will help to ring in the milestone year with activities including:
Iconic characters Hersh, Kiss, Reese and friends will show off their new celebratory outfits in honor of the anniversary year.Jim Victor and Marie Pelton, PA-based food artists, will unveil 2023’s anniversary-themed Chocolate Sculpture, which is slated to be on display through Summer.The Bean to Bar parade, educating guests on the chocolate creation process along the way, will begin its exciting weekly cadence taking place every Saturday and Sunday throughout February at 1:30pm.Grand Opening of Hershey’s Chocolate World’s New Attraction – Summer, 2023
The highly anticipated announcement of the new attraction to replace our fan-favorite 4D Chocolate Movie opens with a ribbon cutting ceremony and special access to the experience. As you await the sweet news, visit the 50th Anniversary Hub to keep up to date on the new attraction!
Hershey’s Chocolate World Birthday Party – June 30, 2023
Beginning at 8:30AM ET with a rededication ceremony of Hershey’s Chocolate World, guest speakers, the Bean to Bar Band, everyone’s favorite Candy Ambassadors, Hersh, Kiss, and Reese, and more will help to kick off the special day. Special activities include:
Exclusive treats and experiences on property.A character meet and greet to receive collectible signatures from each beloved character.Milton Hershey Birthday Celebration – September 11, 2023
Pay tribute to the man who started it all, Milton Hershey, for his birthday! Fans will enjoy an exclusive celebration and be able to collect their own Milton Hershey inspired mustache during this exciting event.
2023 Hershey’s Chocolate House Unveiling – November 10, 2023
The beloved holiday tradition returns—with a twist! Visit this year’s 50th anniversary-themed Hershey’s Chocolate House during the 2023 holiday season and find it on display through January 2024. In celebration of the Hershey’s Chocolate House, each year, The Hershey Company makes a volunteer support donation to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network.
Fans can also collect exclusive, limited-time-only 50th anniversary merchandise such as bags, mugs, shirts, and ornaments only available at the flagship location throughout 2023.
Check out Hershey’s Chocolate World’s website and social channels for teasers of the new attraction, a special Birthday celebration countdown, and additional information on Hershey’s Chocolate World offerings!

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