Events, Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

Seychelles is set to dazzle attendees at the world’s largest travel trade show, ITB Berlin 2024 at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds.
From March 5 to 7, 2024 the Seychelles delegation will illuminate the event with the allure of its breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality.It will be featuring 30 representatives from 15 esteemed companies and institutions, including the Tourism Seychelles Team.
Led by Seychelles Minister for Tourism, Minister Sylvestre Radegonde, alongside Director General for Destination Marketing, Mrs. Bernadette Willemin and Tourism Seychelles representative for Germany and Austria, Mr. Christian Zerbian, Seychelles endeavors to enchant visitors by presenting the diverse array of experiences available in the archipelago.
The Tourism Seychelles team will be further complemented by Ms. Christina Cecile from the International Marketing Team and Mrs. Nadine Shah, Manager for Digital Communities, both stationed at Headquarters.
The delegation is dedicated to nurturing fruitful partnerships, introducing new tourism initiatives, and strengthening existing collaborations to uphold Seychelles’ status as a premier destination on every traveler’s itinerary.ADVERTISEMENTFrom opulent resorts to eco-conscious accommodations and a range of ground services, Seychelles will showcase its finest offerings, providing travellers with unparalleled experiences amidst pristine natural beauty.
Reflecting on the significance of ITB Berlin, Mrs. Bernadette Willemin extended her appreciation to all partners, both longstanding and new, for their unwavering support.
“ITB Berlin transcends being a mere trade show; it serves as a platform where global business flourishes and Seychelles is privileged to participate in this transformative event,” she emphasized.
“The Seychelles delegation eagerly anticipates warmly welcoming our international trade partners at ITB, inviting them to explore our booth, and immerse themselves in the exceptional beauty and hospitality of the islands,” she added enthusiastically.
Exhibitors will include Anantara Maia Seychelles, Berjaya Hotels & Resorts, Savoy Resort & Spa, Creole Travel Services, Hilton Seychelles Resort & Spa, Kempinski Seychelles Resort, Masons Travel, Laila – A Tribute Portfolio Resort, Story Seychelles & Fisherman’s Cove Resorts, 7° South, Thalassa Seychelles, Hotel L’Archipel, and Silhouette Cruises. Each exhibitor provides a unique offering, ensuring unforgettable moments for visitors.
Partners attending ITB next week are highly invited to take advantage of the excellent opportunity to meet with the Seychelles delegation.
The team will be available from the 5th to the 7th at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds, in Hall 20 at Stand 205
Source:https://www.travelandtourworld.com/

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GNTO to host 84 co-exhibitors in the Greek pavilion at ITB Berlin 2024

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A Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) delegation headed by the organisation’s secretary general, Dimitris Fragakis, is to depart for Berlin on Tuesday, March 5 to take part in the tourism exhibition ITB Berlin 2024 (5-7 March).It is the largest delegation in recent years as a total of 85 co-exhibitors will be hosted at the 1,000 sqm Greek pavilion, among them Greek tourism enterprises, regions and municipalities.
Fragakis will have a series of meetings with airline companies, tour operators, German tourist market agencies and institutional bodies and will give interviews to international media and will sign memoranda of cooperation.
The Greek pavilion will host events and special presentations for the German public on the GR-ecoIslands, mainland Greece destinations and the islands of Attica.The visitors can also enjoy the gastronomic experience of an olive oil tasting, featuring high quality olive oils from Crete, the Peloponnese and Lesvos.
Source: https://hellenicnews.com/

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Global tourism is facing extensive tasks and challenges. Whether it’s a shortage of skilled workers, climate justice or the impact of artificial intelligence – at the ITB Berlin Convention 2024, 400 top speakers from international companies such as Booking, Google, Microsoft and Airbnb will discuss new strategies for a travel industry in transition in more than 200 sessions.Countdown to the world’s leading industry think tank: In the first week of March, the Berlin exhibition grounds will once again become the most important meeting place for the travel industry. From March 5 to 7, the ITB Berlin Convention 2024 will bring together numerous international experts under the motto „Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism. Together“ on four live stages as part of 17 themed tracks during ITB Berlin, providing an exciting exchange of ideas. The challenges of advancing digitalization and the increasing application possibilities of artificial intelligence are just two of the many topics that can be expected to generate intensive debates at the convention. Convention participation is included in the trade visitor, exhibitor and press ticket for ITB Berlin.
Representatives of leading international companies promise top news at first hand: Current challenges facing the airline and cruise industry are the topic of the Carrier & Cruise Track, during which leading industry experts will take a look at global market trends as well as technological and legal challenges on March 5. Top speakers such as Nadia Azale (NDC Change Management Director, AirFrance-KLM Group), Michele Francioni (Chief Energy Transition Officer, MSC Cruises S.A.) and Chris Ramm (Vice President Global Enterprise Airline Partners, Travelport) will discuss industry-relevant developments and present best cases.
Glenn Fogel (CEO, Booking Holdings) will speak about future prospects and technology in tourism under the title “Leadership, Innovation and the Future of Travel” as part of the Future Track. Another highlight will be “Engineering the Future: How GenAI and Microsoft Copilot bring a new Intelligence to Travel” with Karim Bagga (Engineering Group Manager, Travel & AI Microsoft), who will discuss the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. Stefan Ebener (Head of Customer Engineering, Google) will also take a look at the mega topic of artificial intelligence in his presentation “How GenAI is changing the Digital World – From Future Tech to Daily Business”. Under the title “How Airbnb is unlocking new Opportunities for Growth”, Dave Stephenson (Chief Business Officer, Airbnb) will explain the booking platform’s current plans.
The responsibility of tourism for biodiversity and climate justice will be the focus of the Responsible Tourism Track on March 7, which will use current practical examples to demonstrate sustainable solutions. The top speakers include Bruno Oberle (President World Resources Forum Association and Former Director General International Union for Conservation of Nature), Külli Kraner (Head of Tourism, Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications) and Ingo Burmester (CEO, DER Touristik), who will present “Pioneering the Transition towards Net Zero: Climate Footprints Unveiled” initiatives for more climate justice.
Sponsors of the ITB Berlin Convention 2024ADVERTISEMENTThe World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF) is co-host of the ITB Convention 2024. Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is track sponsor of the Tour Operator & Travel Sales Track on the Blue Stage. The Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is a partner of the Responsible Tourism Track on the Orange Stage). Global Travel Tech is track sponsor of the eTravel Track on the eTravel Stage. Google is Track Sponsor of the Marketing & Distribution Track on the Orange Stage. Lonely Planet is track sponsor of the Future Track on the Orange Stage. Studiosus Reisen München is session sponsor of the Responsible Tourism Track on the Orange Stage. TikTok is Session Sponsor of the Marketing &Distribution Track on the Orange Stage.
ITB 360°: Year-round content and insights into the tourism industry
ITB Berlin offers the global tourism community valuable thematic content all year round in the form of newsroom articles, podcast episodes and other innovative formats. With ITB 360°, each month is dedicated to a different hot topic. More insights at:itb.com/360

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Rome will be celebrating its legendary birthday on the 21st of April. According to legend, Rome was founded on April 21, 753 BCE. So, on this date, there is a holiday to celebrate, the Natale di Roma.Pesaro as The Italian Capital of Culture 2024 in the Marche region has been announced as the Italian capital of culture for 2024.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa commemorates its 850th anniversary, highlighting its architectural significance and ongoing celebrations showcasing its history through various mediums. The city has arranged a programme that will last until 9th August 2024, which includes an
exhibition featuring the paintings, engravings, photographs and films that have immortalised the work over the years – ‘The Many Lives of the Pisa Bell Tower’.

Looking ahead, the 2025 Vatican Jubilee anticipates a massive influx of visitors to Rome for a year-long celebration of grace, marked by significant rituals including the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica.ADVERTISEMENT
In the realm of sports, Milano Cortina prepares to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, with Cortina as the primary venue and Milan’s San Siro Stadium hosting the opening ceremony. This event marks a historic moment as the games return to Cortina after 70 years, promising an unforgettable spectacle for athletes and spectators alike.

FOOD & DRINK
Primavera del Prosecco in Treviso and Surrounding Areas – 16th March – 9th June
Embark on a journey through the Prosecco wine region, where you will discover the secrets behind Italy’s beloved sparkling wine. Indulge in special packages offering a blend of gastronomy and culture.
Vinitaly in Verona, Veneto – 14th– 17th April
Immerse yourself in the world of Italian wines at Vinitaly, the largest wine show globally. Explore exquisite wines, witness prestigious competitions and embrace the essence of Italian viticulture.
Fritto Misto All’Italiana in Ascoli Piceno, Le Marche – 22nd April – 1st May
Delight your taste buds with an array of fried delights at Fritto Misto, the event that celebrates the great Italian fried foods and has characterised the bridge between Liberation Day and Workers’ Day for the past 19 years. From Sicilian arancini to Neapolitan cannoli, savour the authentic flavours of Italy.
Sagra del Pesce in Liguria –12th May
Experience the vibrant tradition of the Sagra del Pesce in Camogli, Liguria, where the picturesque port square transforms into a culinary spectacle. Dating back to 1952 and intertwined with the ancient festival of San Fortunato, this celebration honours the patron saint of fishermen. Witness the spectacle of the world’s largest frying pan sizzling with freshly caught fish, while the community gathers for bonfires and artistic competitions between the districts of Porto and Pinetto.
Focaccia Festival of Recco in Genoa – 26th of May
Join the celebration of the iconic gastronomic symbol of Recco at the Focaccia Festival. Established in 1955 and organised by the Consorzio della Focaccia di Recco col Formaggio and the Municipality of Recco since 2006, this event pays homage to the beloved focaccia. Experience the culinary tradition with the free distribution of both classic and onion-flavoured focaccia.
SPORTING EVENTS
Rome Marathon – 17th March
‘Run Rome the Marathon’ is a journey in the eternal city that will make participants fall in love with running and the marathon, forever. Share the wonders of the route with hundreds of fellow runners: starting from Fori Imperiali, passing in front of the Vittoriano, in Piazza Venezia, you will gaze at Circo Massimo, feel the breeze of Lungotevere and run past places such as Castel Sant’Angelo, Viale Della Conciliazione and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Giro d’Italia (Tour of Italy) – 4th – 26th May
The Giro d’Italia is an annual multiple-stage bicycle race primarily held in Italy, while also passing through, other countries. The Giro is one of professional cycling’s three-week-long Grand Tours, and after the Tour de France is the second most important stage race in the world.
CULTURE
Venice Biennale – 20th April – 24th November
A major international art exhibition featuring contemporary art, architecture and film in Venice. Explore cutting-edge artistic expressions from around the world amidst the timeless charm of Venice’s historic landmarks.

The First Edition of Exposed: Torino Photo Festival in Turin – 2nd May – 2nd June
From May until June, the spotlight will be on the new International Festival of Photography of the city of Turin. Under the Artistic Direction of Menno Liauw and Salvatore Vitale the exhibition will be entitled – New Landscapes – Nuovi Paesaggi. It will consist of 15 temporary exhibitions in 15 venues and a single programme of events dedicated to photography.
Festa Della Sensa in Venice – 12th May
A traditional event that celebrates the city’s relationship with the sea, including a boat parade and the “Wedding of the Sea” ceremony. Witness centuries-old maritime customs and festivities along the stunning canals of Venice.

Festa Di San Giovanni (Feast Of St. John) in Florence – 24th June

A celebration of St. John the Baptist’s feast day, featuring fireworks and historic pageants. Join in the revelry as Florence comes alive with colourful processions, music and fireworks to honour the city’s patron saint.
MUSIC

Verona Opera Festival in Verona – 8th June – 7th September
Held in the ancient Roman arena in Verona, this festival features open-air opera performances. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of classical music under the stars in one of Italy’s most iconic settings.

Umbria Jazz Festival in Umbria –  12th – 21st July
A world-renowned jazz festival held in Perugia, Umbria, with performances by international and local artists.

NEW FLIGHTS
Starting from 31st March, British Airways is increasing the frequency of its flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Palermo (PMO) to five flights per week, providing travellers with more options to explore the beautiful Sicilian city. This increased schedule will run until 26th October, allowing passengers ample opportunities to experience the rich culture and history of Palermo.
British Airways is also introducing a new route from London Gatwick (LGW) to Catania, offering two flights per day every Friday. Commencing on 31st March and concluding on 26th October, this expanded schedule will cater to the growing demand for travel to Catania. 

NEW HOTELS
MONTANA LODGE AND SPA (5*), La Thuile in Aosta Valley
In a harmonious balance of modern design and natural scenery, the rooms at the Montana Lodge & Spa are perfectly suited to the needs of every family, providing a sense of warmth and hospitality.
GRAND HOTEL COURMANYEUR MONT BLANC (5*)  ,Aosta Valley
Ideal for both the winter and summer seasons, Grand Hotel Courmanyeur offers its guests numerous services and exclusive spaces, for an unforgettable holiday.
CITIZEN M ISOLA TIBERINA (4*), Rome
Experience the perfect blend of art, comfort and Italian charm at Citizen M hotel in Rome’s historic Jewish Quarter, where dreamy beds, a lively living room and a rooftop bar overlooking ancient ruins await.
FONTANA 16 ROOMS, Milan
Located in the heart of Milan, Fontana 16 Rooms offers a unique stay experience, combining the peace of a historic street with the convenience of a central location.
LE CATTEDRALI (5*) , Monferrato (Piedmont) 
Discover the beauty and rich heritage of the Monferrato region at Le Cattedrali relais, nestled in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its fine truffles, wines, and hazelnuts, where ancient castles, Romanesque churches invite adventurers to explore the unique landscape.
PALAZZO DEI FIORI  BY ROOM MATE (4*), Venice
Experience the timeless charm of Venice at Palazzo Dei Fiori, a historic 19th-century gem designed by architect Teresa Sapey, perfectly situated in the heart of the city near St. Mark’s Square.
SINGER PALACE HOTEL (5*), Rome
Originally founded in 1850 by Mr. Singer, the inventor of the sewing machine, Singer Palace has been transformed into a chic boutique hotel by the Visocchi family in 2018. Centrally located in Rome, within walking distance of major historical sights and shopping areas, the hotel offers 30 beautifully appointed rooms, including suites and connecting solutions, blending historic charm with contemporary elegance.

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San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) took an important step forward in having giant pandas return to the San Diego Zoo by signing a cooperative agreement with China Wildlife Conservation Association and filing a permit application with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.SDZWA has a nearly 30-year conservation partnership with research collaborators in China focused on protecting and recovering giant pandas. These collaborative efforts have had a significant impact—including, increased scientific understanding of giant panda biology, care and wellness, and what pandas need to thrive in a changing climate—contributing directly to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List downgrading the giant panda from Endangered to Vulnerable in 2021. But there is still much more work to do to secure their safe future.
“We are humbled by the potential opportunity of continuing our collaborative conservation efforts to secure the future for giant pandas. As such, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is taking important steps to ensure we are prepared for a potential return. This includes sharing our detailed conservation plans with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to ensure alignment for the greater benefit of giant pandas,” said Dr. Megan Owen, Vice President of Conservation Science.
Collaboration between SDZWA and Chinese research partners has contributed to critically important and far-reaching discoveries as well as scientific contributions that have played a meaningful role in China’s efforts to bring the iconic and beloved giant panda back from the brink of extinction. These include critical findings on giant panda reproductive behavior and physiology, nutritional requirements, habitat needs and genetic research among other areas of focus. The efforts include developing a giant panda milk formula and other neonatal conservation techniques that dramatically increased survival rates for nursery-reared cubs from 5% to 95%, the first successful artificial insemination of a giant panda outside of China and contributing valuable expertise to efforts led by Chinese scientists to track wild giant pandas at the Foping National Nature Reserve using GPS technology.
Although the conservation status of the giant panda is improving, there is still much work needed to ensure they remain on the path to recovery with healthy and flourishing populations.
Climate change, habitat fragmentation and population isolation are some of the pressures facing giant pandas. SDZWA’s proposed conservation strategy aims to improve giant panda population health and resilience in some of the smallest and most isolated populations vulnerable to extinction and loss of genetic diversity.ADVERTISEMENT“Pandas in our care and in the care of Chinese colleagues at conservation facilities play an important role as assurance against extinction and loss of genetic diversity in their native habitats, as well as a source population for reintroductions,” said Dr. Owen. “Our partnership over the decades has served as a powerful example of how—when we work together—we can achieve what was once thought to be impossible. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is uniquely positioned to collaborate toward a shared goal of creating a sustainable future for giant pandas.”

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The world’s most valuable horse race will be staged this week with the Saudi Cup 2024 set to be bigger than ever.
The King Abdulaziz Racetrack in Riyadh will host two days of action from Friday, building up to the main Saudi Cup race on Saturday.The main race is the richest in the horse racing event in the world, with a purse of $20m (£15.86m) on offer.
“It is, without doubt, the most significant event in the history of horse racing in Saudi Arabia, and demonstrates our resolve to develop this great sport,” HRH Prince Bandar bin Khalid al-Faisal, chairman of the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, said after launching the event.
“And also our ambition to become a leading player on horse racing’s world stage.”Described as one of the Saudi capital’s social events of the season, the Saudi Cup weekend begins on Friday 23 February with an eight-race opening day.
Seven men and seven women will vie for the Invest Saudi International Jockey Challenge trophy across four races. Saudi Cup race night is even bigger, with some of the world’s top thoroughbreds set to race in the main event on Saturday at the close of a nine-race session.ADVERTISEMENTThe race is placed in the calendar directly between the Pegasus World Cup in Florida and Dubai World Cup, with the four-week interval between each race allowing horses to compete. It also comes in the thick of the build-up to the Cheltenham Festival, one of the tentpole events in the British racing calendar.Upgraded to Group 1 status before the 2022 edition, last year’s Saudi Cup was won by Panthalassa, with the Japanese horse taking victory in its retirement season with jockey Yutaka Yoshida guiding him home.
Plenty of big names are expected to be watching on at King Abdulaziz Racetrack to see who succeeds the Yoshito Yahagi-trained horse, with a number top sporting stars now plying their trade in Saudi Arabia.
Investment in the country’s Saudi Pro League has brought in a number of top footballers, with Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo often spotted taking in some of the other sporting pursuits on offer, and ex-Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema another famous face contracted to a Saudi club.
The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) has also invested in Newcastle United and established the LIV Golf Series, while the World Snooker Tour recently announced a new ranking event in the nation that will be open to all 128 players with tour cards.
Source: https://www.aol.com/

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Lights, camera, action! Get ready for Movies at the Marina, an unforgettable cinematic experience at Yas Marina, where movie lovers can immerse themselves in a world of entertainment under the night sky in this vibrant waterfront destinationTaking advantage of the sublime temperatures, the excitement kicks off on Friday 23rd February at 7:30pm and continues every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Sunday 17th March. Guests can relax in comfort on deckchairs and beanbags while indulging in a selection of blockbuster films, including favourites like “10 things I hate about you”, “Moana”, “Mamma Mia”, “Spiderman” and many more.
To complement the movie magic, an array of food options will be available for purchase including soft drinks, popcorn, burgers, ice-cream and more enhancing the viewing experience. What’s more? Guests can enjoy thrilling activities such as foosball and air hockey before and after each screening, making Movies at the Marina the most exciting weekend activity.Movies at the Marina is a free-to-attend event guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser; so arrive early to secure front-row seats and be part of the action.For more information please visit: www.yasmarina.ae

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UN Tourism Secretary-General, His Excellency Zurab Zurab Pololikashvili addresses the 2nd Global Tourism Resilience Day Conference, emphasising the need for increased focus to be placed on boosting job creation and sustainable investments aimed at building tourism resilience, especially for small countries.
UN Tourism Secretary-General H.E. Zurab Pololikashvili has outlined plans to boost job creation and investment in the Caribbean’s tourism industry. Mr. Pololikashvili was a keynote speaker during the just concluded 2nd Global Tourism Resilience Day Conference at the Montego Bay Convention Centre.Underscoring the importance of building the resilience of tourism in the Caribbean, he stated: “We need presence; we need to support families whose income is only from tourism and agriculture, and fishing.” That’s why, he said, with the support of ministers present, “I promise all Jamaicans and all Caribbeans that we’ll be here talking about how to develop the tourist industry and how to create new jobs.”
The Secretary-General underscored that jobs were crucial, as well as education, stressing that UN Tourism would be focussing more on job creation and investments. He added that: “We need more money here, more foreign direct investments in the region.” While promising that more would come, he warned that “it’s not easy, it takes time.”
The conference was jointly organised by the Ministry of Tourism, UN Tourism (formerly the United Nations World Tourism Organization, UNWTO), and the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC), which is being rebranded as the Global Tourism Resilience Centre (GTRC),  under the theme, “Navigating the Future of Tourism Resilience.”
Also speaking at the event, which ran from February 16-17, Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett said “understanding the impact and the role that tourism is going to play in how the world changes and morphs into the future is important for us as we try to bring the next generation into an understanding of this great economic activity called tourism.”
Underscoring the importance of the industry, Mr. Bartlett said it was now regarded as one of the fastest ways of transferring wealth, arguably from the rich to the poor.ADVERTISEMENT“So, tourism, in that space, has now become the main driver of this process of building capital across the world, and the value of tourism is that it is not really extracted. It can be but it is not; it adds value every step of the way and it encourages creativity and innovation,” he said.
Minister Bartlett also posited that tourism responded to the demands of people in a holistic way “so that anyone and almost everyone, can benefit from tourism activity.”

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