Organisations & Operators,

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is pleased to announce Gloria Fluxà, Vice-Chairman and Chief Sustainability Officer of Iberostar Group, as its new Vice-Chair, and Chair of its Sustainability Committee.
Fluxà takes over the role from Intrepid Group Co-founder and Chairman, Darrell Wade, who took the reins in 2020.
Since 2018, she has held the position of Vice-Chairman and Chief Sustainability Officer at Iberostar Group, passionately championing sustainability initiatives and driving the company’s commitment to responsible tourism. As a trustee and the Chairman of the Iberostar Foundation, Gloria has shown unwavering dedication to environmental and social causes.
In May 2018, Gloria Fluxà was named a “Young Global Leader” by the World Economic Forum for her tireless efforts to advance sustainable tourism, particularly in the area of marine and oceans preservation through the “Wave of Change” movement. This initiative focuses on reducing plastic consumption, promoting sustainable fishing practices, and enhancing coastal health.
Gloria Fluxà said: “I am honoured to take on this role supporting our industry’s commitment to drive meaningful change. Responsible tourism isn’t just a vision; it’s a necessity for our planet and the well-being of our communities.”ADVERTISEMENTJulia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said: “Firstly, I would like to thank Darrell for his hard work and dedication to the role over the last few years. His contribution has been invaluable.
“Gloria’s impressive track record, her dedication to sustainability, and her vision for harmonising economic growth with environmental preservation and social impact, make her the perfect fit for her new role as Vice-Chair at WTTC and Chair of the Sustainability Committee.
During its Global Summit, WTTC also announced Greg O’Hara, Founder and Senior Managing Director of Certares Management LLC, as its new Chair, bringing his extensive experience and leadership to the global tourism body. Under this new leadership, WTTC and its Members look forward to advancing the global Travel & Tourism sector toward a brighter and more sustainable future.

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The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), becoming dedicated partners in establishing meaningful connections between the two organisations.
The MOU was signed in conjunction with the 62nd ICCA Congress in Bangkok hosted by Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). This is the second time Thailand played host to the ICCA Congress, with the first time in 2007 in Pattaya. The agreement was signed on Sunday, November 12 by PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid and ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath in the presence of the President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, PATA Chair Peter Semone and ICCA President Marta Gomes, on the first day of the ICCA Congress 2023 taking place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand.
“Our collaboration with ICCA underscores the unwavering commitment of both organizations to foster responsible and sustainable growth within the travel and tourism industry, not only in the Asia Pacific region but also on a global scale. This partnership holds great promise for the expansion of business opportunities in the region as there is important synergy between the travel and tourism industry and business events, as both relate to travel and economic impact for destination and industry players. We eagerly look forward to sharing valuable insights and best practices with them,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.
Under the MOU, both parties plan to create joint programme content designed to nurture the ‘Business Travel’ sector in the Asia Pacific region, emphasise sustainability in future activities and events, and begin cross-participation in flagship events between the Associations, among other priorities.
“ICCA is proud to sign this important MoU agreement with PATA which reinforces how closely linked our organisations are. We both share values around sustainability, education, legacy, and advocating for the global significance of international collaboration and partnership. Asia Pacific is an amazing place, culturally diverse and endlessly fascinating. It offers so much to the world in terms of travel and business. Yet it is the people here that are key to developing new opportunities, and ICCA salutes the collective energy, efficiency, and boundless desire to create unique event experiences for all,” said ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath.ADVERTISEMENTICCA is a global community and knowledge hub for the international association – and governmental – meetings industry. Founded in 1963, ICCA specialises in the international association meetings sector, offering data, education, communication channels, as well as business development and networking opportunities. Today, ICCA continues to advocate for the world of international meetings. The ICCA Association Community offers associations across the world education, connections, tools and resources to help them organise more effective and successful meetings.

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Disney executives express confidence in their theme parks segment and refute concerns about an economic deceleration.Amid ongoing discussions about economic challenges, bookings at Disney’s theme parks remain robust, as highlighted during a Wednesday earnings call.
Walt Disney’s interim Chief Financial Officer, Kevin Lansberry, stated:
“We’re not seeing anything in terms of an economic hangover. Domestically we feel good. Internationally we feel good.”
Moreover, he added that the bookings at both Disneyland and Disney Cruise Line are still “very, very strong.”
The financial performance of Disney Theme Parks and Experiences in the fourth quarter underscores this resilience, with revenue reaching $8.2 billion, marking a 13% increase from the previous year. Operating income surged to $1.8 billion, reflecting a substantial 31% rise.ADVERTISEMENTWithin the domestic division, operating income witnessed a 9% increase to $808 million in the quarter. This growth was attributed to positive developments at Disney Cruise Line and Disney Vacation Club. However, domestic parks and resorts faced challenges, grappling with elevated costs linked to the closure of Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser and inflationary pressures.
On the international front, operating income experienced an impressive surge, exceeding 100% to reach $441 million. This substantial increase was driven by the success of Shanghai Disney Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland. Both parks witnessed heightened guest spending, attributed to increased ticket prices and a rise in attendance.
CEO Bob Iger emphasized the pivotal role of Disney Parks and Experience as one of the four key building opportunities essential to Walt Disney Corporation’s success. He underscored the company’s dedicated focus on “turbocharging growth in our parks and experiences business.”
Throughout the fiscal year, Disney demonstrated its commitment to this growth by investing $5 billion in parks, resorts, and property developments. The strategic investments align with Disney’s proactive approach to enhancing and expanding its offerings within the thriving theme parks and experiences sector.

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Carlo Olejniczak, Vice President and Managing Director for Booking.com in Europe, Middle East and Africa
Cooler weather, previously undiscovered experiences and a chance for uninterrupted ‘me time’ are high up on UAE travelers’ wish-lists for 2024, according to new research from leading digital travel platform Booking.com.Booking.com’s Travel Predictions 2024 report also reveals that people living in the UAE are seeking sustainability, sleep, financial savings and culinary experiences when they go on business or leisure trips.
Nearly 28,000 travelers across 33 countries took part in the research, with the UAE included for the first time. Just over 500 UAE residents of various ages and nationalities were questioned about their travel preferences and plans for next year.
Keeping it cool, and staying afloat
With the UAE’s year-round hot weather – and scorching temperatures in summer – 75 percent of UAE-based travelers opt for cooler climates when they go away, compared to 56 percent of all participants in the survey.  And while 81 percent of all travelers will look for water-based destinations next year, only 34 percent of holidaymakers from the UAE will be choosing an aquatic escape. Booking.com expects a growing trend towards water-centric trips as more travelers learn about the benefits of floating yoga, ice therapy and the fascination of under-water hotels.
Going green for sustainabilityADVERTISEMENTWith 2023 being the Year of Sustainability in the UAE and COP 28 just around the corner, responsible, eco-friendly travel is more top of mind among the country’s citizens and residents than ever before. Over 75 percent of UAE travelers want to see sustainability in action and will be choosing hotels with wow-factor sustainability innovation, compared to 53 percent of all travelers questioned.
Booking.com also found that 81 percent of UAE travelers want to see the great outdoors being brought inside, with green spaces, plant-life an integral part of their chosen accommodation.
UAE travelers also want to feel connected to the environments and communities that they are visiting, with over half seeking visits to remote locations where they can immerse themselves in the local ecosystem in off-the-beaten track areas. Meanwhile, 73 per travelers from the UAE are keen to use sustainable travel apps as part of their travel plans. Sustainable design, architecture and innovation are also on UAE travelers’ holiday lists.
Sleep well to live well
It’s no secret that a great day starts with a great night’s sleep – and UAE travelers are planning to get plenty of shut-eye when they travel in 2024.  Around 70 percent say that uninterrupted sleep will be the main focus of their holiday next year, compared to 58 percent of all participants.  And 75 percent of UAE-based travelers will use their next vacation as pure ‘me time’, going solo and leaving their partners and children behind to re-group, prioritise their wellbeing and catch up on sleep.
Immersive dining experiences on the 2024 travel menu
With two Dubai restaurants featuring on this year’s World Best Restaurants list and a dedicated Michelin Guide for Dubai, the UAE is firmly established as a world-leading destination for the best in culinary experiences, but Booking.com’s research shows that travelers want to unearth new culinary experiences outside of the country, too.
More than 75 percent are more interested in learning about foreign countries’ must-eat delicacies, traditional dishes and culinary creations than they were before, thanks to increased gasto-tourism offerings that embrace history, geography and produce to create tasty travel experiences for tourists. More than 85 percent of UAE-based travelers want to try indigenous cuisines wherever they go, boosting income and instilling a sense of pride in local communities in the process.
Foodie travelers also have an appetite for virtual reality and artificial intelligence as part of their experience, with nearly half seeking immersive, ‘phygital’ culinary experiences, where the food itself is enhanced with mood-altering lighting, paired fragrances and sensual soundscapes to awaken the taste buds, in 2024.
Thriving – and driving
Booking.com’s research shows that vacationers aim to feel more alive, re-imagine their best self and enjoy the anonymity of travel in 2024.  Over 83 percent of travelers from the UAE say they feel more alive when on holiday and aspire to be more like their vacation selves in their day-to-day life back home. 
More than 70 percent will use their holidays to rethink and recreate themselves, embracing new aspects of their personalities and making the most of the freedom and opportunity that travel can bring.  Nearly 60 percent would pay to rent a nicer car than they drive at home, compared to 42 percent of global participants. 
Technically speaking …
UAE travelers are leading when it comes to planning holidays through tech. Nearly two-thirds (60 percent) trusting AI to plan every aspect of their trip, compared to less than half (48 percent) of all travelers who took part in the research. While Z-gen, millennials and X-gen are more likely to adopt AI, baby boomers and the silent generation are also increasingly turning to tech for convenient, flexible and easy-to-manage travel, according to Booking.com’s study.
Cheaper travel, richer experiences
Travelers in 2024 are looking for cost-effective vacations combined with luxury experiences, according to Booking.com. In the UAE, 70 percent of holidaymakers are looking to reduce the cost of their vacation by choosing destinations where day-to-day life is cheaper than in their home city, or travelling to less far-flung places to avoid the expense of long-haul flights.  However, travelers are willing to pay for short-term luxury experiences when they arrive at their destination: 62 percent of UAE-based holidaymakers will pay for a day pass for a five star resort rather than actually staying in one.
Travelers also plan to reduce their holiday bills by taking a vacation outside of peak season: more than half (56 percent) of those questioned in the UAE plan to take children out of school in 2024 to make their travel budget go further. Globally, 47 percent would consider traveling with their kids during school term time.
Home and away: UAE travelers’ top destinations for early 2024
Travelers based in the UAE will be venturing overseas and staying on home ground next year, according to Booking.com, which has revealed the most in-demand destinations for January to April 2024.  Top of the hotel reservations list so far is Dubai, suggesting that those living elsewhere in the country will head to the emirate to soak up a plethora of winter events, including world-class sporting fixtures and ever-popular annual attractions such as the Dubai Shopping Festival.
Carlo Olejniczak, Vice President and Managing Director for Booking.com in Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “The United Arab Emirates’ world-leading infrastructure, global location and superb travel connections make it one of the most convenient countries in the world to travel from and to.  We are delighted to include the UAE in our Booking.com Travel Predictions Report for 2024, which reveals fascinating insight into trends, preferences and plans among UAE travelers for the year ahead.
“Our travel predictions reflect the notion that travel is a catalyst to live our best lives – be it through a journey of new discovery, an adventure that supports local environments and communities or a holiday that focuses on health, relaxation and wellbeing – and to sustain those best lives once we get back home to real life. 
“UAE travelers are tech-savvy, eco-conscious, adventure-seeking and hungry for new experiences – be it in a foreign land or by exploring different areas of the UAE itself.  2024 looks set to tick all the boxes – and more – on their holiday wish-list.”

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The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) unveiled today its first-ever global tourism report focussing on diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) during its Global Summit, taking place in Kigali.
The report – Creating Belonging: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging in Travel & Tourism – is the result of a collaboration between WTTC and HospitableMe, a global leader in inclusive hospitality.
Supported by AIG Travel, the report offers data around tourism employment, aiming to equip both the public and private sector the tools they need to spark change and make tourism more diverse.
Drawing on data from six economies, Rwanda, Australia, US, UK, South Africa and the EU, it offers a deep dive on metrics such as gender, age, sexual orientation, disability status and educational skills
According to the global tourism body, the share of female workers in tourism was highest in Australia, at 54 per cent, followed by the US (48 per cent), higher than the overall average.
In terms of youth employment, the sector has always been considered a key employer for those aged under 25 years.
This research shows the US saw 26 per cent of youth employees in the sector, more than twice the share of the total economy average (12 per cent), with Australia (26 per cent) and Rwanda (24 per cent) following closely.ADVERTISEMENTLast year, according to this new study, UK tourism employed a higher share of LGBTQ+ employees (5.2 per cent) than the overall economy (four per cent), with a near 2.7 percentage points increase since 2011.
Julia Simpson, WTTC president, said: “Travel has always been a people sector, whatever their background.
“Hospitality goes beyond travellers; it is about how we welcome and care for our colleagues and employees.
“Our sector has come a long way.
“Across the board, we are seeing efforts and changes led by major tourism businesses, who are now paying more attention to creating a sense of belonging, supporting their employees, regardless of who they are or where they come from.”
Travel supports people from all walks of life, employing the highest share of workers with lower levels of formal education across the EU, UK and the U.S, compared to the overall economy.
WTTC draws from the findings to offer opportunities for the challenges faced by the sector, such as education on DEIB and senior leadership support, recruitment process, and benchmarking and research.
A majority of the companies analysed (60 per cent) had dedicated personnel to their DEIB efforts, making clear this is a pressing topic all tourism stakeholders should pay close attention to, to ensure the term “hospitality” equals “partnership”.
To access this report, visit the WTTC Research Hub.
More Information
Take a look at a selection of Breaking Travel News video interviews from the Global Summit here.

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The recent news of the closure of Online Travel Training (OTT) came as a complete surprise to the industry, their clients, and apparently their staff. 
Travel Uni joins all our colleagues and friends in the industry in expressing our concern for those affected by this sudden end to the company and are looking at how best to help those companies whose business dealings with the trade have been severely affected by this loss.
Equator Global and Travel Uni operate in exactly the same space and are celebrating 20 Years of successful growth as the largest trade e-Learning and engagement platform, with over 330,000 trade members, globally. We are uniquely placed to assist those destinations, hotel groups, cruise companies, airlines and other travel suppliers impacted by this closure.
We have immediately put together a business continuity plan to help mitigate the significant impact that this shock will have on those organisations that depend on the trade for business success and growth.
Please get in touch with Kristian Brumby or Ian Dockreay to find out more on how Equator and Travel Uni can help your organisation continue to provide travel trade training and engagement in the UK/I, throughout Europe and throughout the world with a seamless continuity solution. ADVERTISEMENTThe team will be at WTM so please get in touch to arrange to meet up there or shortly thereafter if, you haven’t already.
Ian Dockreay, CEO, [email protected], Mobile +44(0)78316 74727
Kristian Brumby, Director, [email protected], Mobile +44 (0)7450 472497 ENDS

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Leading global travel service provider Trip.com is pleased to announce its 6th anniversary with a gift to its valued customers – an enhanced loyalty program that features a renewed membership tier mechanism and enhanced member rewards globally.During Trip.com’s 6th anniversary promotion campaign, from now to Oct 31, Trip.com members can enjoy additional benefits on top of basic membership privileges.
Schubert Lou, Chief Operating Officer, Trip.com, said, “We are thrilled to celebrate this significant milestone for Trip.com as we continue journeying with our valued customers. As a sign of our continued commitment and gratitude to our loyal members, we hope these exciting new benefits and features add greater value to our customers, ultimately enhancing convenience and ensuring a safe, seamless and rewarding travel experience with Trip.com.”
Enhanced Loyalty Program: Membership Tiers
Customers can sign up for free to become a Silver member to earn rewards and enjoy discounts on bookings. Membership tier upgrades are determined by the number of valid bookings made within twelve months. Members who attain an upgrade by completing a certain number of bookings will have their new membership tier extended by one year from the date of their membership upgrade. Trip.com will reset membership tiers according to the member’s most recent settlement date.
New Services and PerksADVERTISEMENTTrip Coins already allow Trip.com members to enjoy many rewards and savings. This year, Trip.com will be rolling out new services for members to further support its ongoing commitment to excellent customer service, and mission to become a true travel companion for its global customer base.
For all member tiers, a new Emergency Assistance will be introduced that offers customers comprehensive help services ranging from medical support to translation assistance, child repatriation, and assistance with missing baggage. This service is available in all English-language regions.
Platinum and Diamond members can enjoy an exclusive Priority Assistance for Calls & Chats service for high-priority and fast access to a live Trip.com agent; a VIP Customer Specialists service for access to prompt and specialised assistance that has all of customer’s travel details; and a Free Airport VIP Lounge Access (once per calendar year for Platinum members, twice per calendar year for Diamond members). The VIP Service is available for the following countries and regions: Australia, Great Britain, Singapore, Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Spain, Denmark, Italy.
Gold, Platinum, and Diamond tier members can now enjoy a full waiver of the train handling fee, using the No Refund Handling Fee for Trains feature (once, twice, and four times per calendar year, respectively).
Commitment to Enhancing Customer Experiences
Trip.com continues to ensure world-class customer service, encapsulated in its all-in-one app offerings. Not only limited to flights, accommodations, attractions and car rentals, the global travel platform reiterates its commitment to customers through TripGenie – an advanced AI travel assistant designed to revolutionise travel planning and booking; the Trip Moments Community – a vibrant, travel-related social media experience that connects travellers globally; and Trip.com’s unrivalled Customer Service team, who ensure smooth customer experiences with prompt service. With this upgraded loyalty program, Trip.com aims to be the trusted travel companion for global travellers.
Download the Trip.com app now, and start exploring, befitting, and experiencing our enhanced loyalty program today.

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Heidi has officially launched in Ireland, allowing ski and board enthusiasts to enjoy a completely fresh, flexible and innovative way to book their winter breaks this season! Heidi will now carry travellers from Dublin, Cork and Shannon to resorts right across Europe with a vast range of options to choose from.
Founded in Bristol, UK, by entrepreneurial siblings Marcus and Alexander Blunt, Heidi leverages cutting-edge technology to disrupt the traditional, rigid Saturday-to-Saturday booking model or the DIY option, which can be time-consuming, expensive and leave travellers stranded without connections or holiday protection.
“Heidi’s strength lies in its expansive offerings, with access to over 100s of resorts, freedom to select flight days, and customising stay durations,” explains Marcus Blunt. Beyond the traditional week-long stays, a significant portion of Heidi’s clientele are now opting for shorter, more budget-friendly holidays, cleverly sidestepping the peak Saturday travel rush. “This strategic flexibility not only exposes skiers to lesser-known destinations but also accommodates their hectic lifestyles, often with substantial savings.”
Born out of wanting more
Marcus explains what makes Heidi a different concept from its counterparts. “Heidi’s inception was fuelled by personal frustration—the inability to effortlessly plan a ski weekend on my terms,” recalls Marcus. “We saw a niche neglected by big players who are focused on bulk bookings on bulk bookings and inflexible schedules, and by smaller operators whose personalised services can come with a hefty price tag and extended waiting periods. Then there is the DIY option, but this takes time, there is no holiday protection, you need to know where you want to travel and it isn’t always a cheaper option, as operators get preferential agency rates.”ADVERTISEMENTAlexander adds, “Modern consumers demand rapid, diverse choices with dependable support. Witnessing Heidi’s UK triumph, we knew extending into Ireland was the next logical progression. The immediate influx of bookings upon our website going live, even pre-official launch, was a positive indicator of the market’s readiness.”
Heidi offers unique smart technology
Heidi is the only company which allows for such unique search capability, across so many resorts and is the reason this popular start-up has seen massive growth figures in its first five years**. Heidi’s unique concept now sits in the middle of what is currently offered – a fantastic option for those who want more flexibility than traditional package ski holidays, but the tech makes it easier to book than doing it all yourself. 
Commitment to customer care
Addressing accountability in case of cancelled flights, transfers and hotels? Marcus concludes: “All our travellers are financially protected under the TOPP Scheme and the buck stops with us when customers book. Booking through our site offers complete peace of mind, so changed/cancelled flights get rearranged through Heidi. We have also worked diligently to get the right transfer agents in place to meet our customers’ needs, so we know our travellers are looked after every step of the way. Whilst we rely on the powers of sophisticated technology to work through all the back end booking, we also create a human interface, all of which has led to us achieving 4.9 out of 5 on Trustpilot with nearly 1000 reviews. As a company we’re incredibly proud of this and will keep striving to facilitate the very best mountain breaks we can.”

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