Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

Nearly half of global destinations now facilitating visas for durations extending up to one year.
In a fresh analysis conducted by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), encompassing 54 destinations, the ascendancy of Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs) correlates with a noticeable uptick in the number of digital nomads. Destinations across diverse regions are actively adapting to this evolving market trend, embracing the concept of remote work.
What the global landscape of digital nomad visas looks like
The UNWTO Brief delves into the intricacies of DNV programs across seven crucial facets: Application process, Visa duration, Taxation policies, Insurance provisions, Accommodation facilities, Minimum income prerequisites, and criminal records checks. The brief scrutinizes the historical backdrop and the current landscape of digital nomadism trends, offering an insightful analysis of existing DNVs globally within five distinct regions. Key insights encompass:
Nearly half of destinations worldwide offer visas valid for up to one year, catering to the needs of digital nomads seeking extended stays. A significant proportion, 39%, exempt digital nomads from tax obligations, providing a favorable financial environment. In 17% of destinations, there are no minimum income requirements, offering flexibility to individuals with varying income levels. The majority, 76%, streamline the application process by facilitating online submissions for Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) programs, ensuring efficiency and accessibility. Furthermore, 80% of destinations boast a quick turnaround, processing DNV applications within a one-month timeframe. Conversely, a minimal 6% of destinations impose no visa fees during the application process, reducing financial barriers for aspiring digital nomads.ADVERTISEMENTThis is the future of workA Digital Nomad Visa provides individuals the liberty to reside and work in a foreign country while concurrently engaging in professional endeavors, be it regular employment or freelance work for employers or clients situated in their home country or another. This visa category enables digital nomads to seamlessly pursue their careers while immersing themselves in the distinctive lifestyle of the host destination, aligning with prevalent trends in the future of work.
Flexibility and having digital access are important elementsThe UNWTO Brief underscores critical considerations for destinations contemplating the initiation or expansion of their DNV programs:
Destinations prioritize the digitalization of their infrastructure, recognizing the significance of strong connectivity and productivity. Investments in robust digital infrastructure, including high-speed internet, co-working spaces, and comfortable accommodations, are made to enhance optimal conditions for remote work. Host destinations, by providing a flexible visa framework, empower digital nomads to strike a harmonious balance between work and lifestyle. This approach allows them to craft conducive work environments while immersing themselves in the local culture and lifestyle. Additionally, the brief stresses the critical need for host destinations to conduct impact assessments for Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) programs, establishing it as a vital mechanism for evaluating and understanding their future implications.

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Sonoma County Tourism has announced the launch of its “Discover Your &” consumer marketing campaign, which is designed to inspire visitation to the destination in the off-peak season of November through April. 
The “Discover Your &” campaign works to leverage all the great things that consumers know Sonoma County for, while also showcasing incredible experiences and activities they might not be aware of (yet). While Sonoma County is renowned for its world-class wine scene and unrivaled natural beauty, “Discover Your &” also connects visitors with only-in-Sonoma County events and high touch experiences they can choose based on their personal interests and needs. Visitors also enjoy a higher level of access this time of year to local makers and artisans to gain a deeper understanding of how Sonoma County inspires them to create all our world-class products and experiences.
“Sonoma County is particularly compelling this time of year,” said Todd O’Leary, Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Sonoma County Tourism. “You might have a favorite Chardonnay from Sonoma County, but have you paired it with freshly caught Dungeness crab uniquely prepared at one of our fabulous restaurants? Or, you may love exploring our incredible Pacific coastline, but have you witnessed the great migration of humpback whales just offshore? To further entice visitors, our businesses are offering high-touch experiences and lodging offers that make Sonoma County a must-visit destination in the off-peak season.” 
A tentpole of the campaign is a promotion entitled “More Than a Stay.” A curated list of both lodging offers, and high-touch experiences, inspires visitors to explore more aspects of the destination while also saving them money.
For more information on the “Discover Your &” campaign, including loads of travel inspiration about Sonoma County, please visitsonomacounty.com.ADVERTISEMENT

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Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today to collectively initiate and pursue cross-destination tourism promotion and marketing initiatives between the Musandam Governorate, Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.
The agreement was signed in London, UK, between Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, Chief Executive Officer of OMRAN Group during a signing ceremony held at the World Travel Market, one of the most influential annual global exhibitions on travel and tourism.
The MoU provides an official platform for both parties to cooperate on initiatives aimed at attracting more international visitors while positioning Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam as leading global tourism destinations in the Middle East. The agreement will see leaders of both organisations work together to create opportunities for travellers to visit both destinations, Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam, in a single trip. The partnership between the destinations is a natural fit, with just a 90-minute drive between them and a shared mountain range, the majestic Hajar mountains, among a wealth of other shared natural landscapes. Furthermore, their intertwined cultural heritage and historical connections only serve to enrich and strengthen this unique collaboration. 
To this end, the MoU sets forth a framework for greater collaboration and dialogue on marketing initiatives to promote cross-destination tourism. This includes facilitating ease of access in transportation between Musandam and Ras Al Khaimah, developing favourable visa arrangements for international travellers to visit both destinations and initiating tourism packages, adventure offerings and partnership opportunities.
Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “This first of its kind agreement is built upon a formidable synergy between Ras Al Khaimah and the neighbouring Musandam Governorate. We look forward to working together with OMRAN on cross-destination promotions which will not only showcase each of our destinations’ distinct tourism offerings, but also raise awareness among international visitors about the wide range of tourism attractions in the Middle East.” ADVERTISEMENTDr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, OMRAN Group’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “It gives us great pleasure to partner with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. This MoU underscores the pivotal role tourism authorities play in championing natural assets and cultural heritage. Through our joint efforts, we aim to craft distinctive and innovative experiences for global travellers, further enhancing the allure of our region.”
Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam Governorate boast remarkable natural assets, offering tourists a range of captivating attractions. These include the majestic Hajar Mountains and the stunning fjords for which the Governorate of Musandam is renowned. As both are uniquely situated along the pristine shores of the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman respectively, international travellers can additionally expect to enjoy an extensive range of water activities when visiting both destinations as part of the new partnership. From immersive diving and snorkeling experiences, picturesque Dhow cruises, dolphin watching, kayaking and waterparks, Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam are set to deliver unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveller amidst stunning natural landscapes. 
The two destinations also offer a wide range of adventure experiences, this strategic partnership will focus on positioning Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam as leaders within the global adventure tourism market through unified marketing programmes. Ras Al Khaimah, known as the adventure hub of the Middle East, offers adventure enthusiasts a host of high-octane experiences on Jebel Jais, the highest mountain peak in the UAE, such as the Jais Flight, the longest zipline in the world, the Jais Sledder, the longest toboggan ride in the region, among many other attractions, while Musandam recently shattered international records with the launch of the world’s longest over water zipline. Together, the two destinations are poised to make a significant contribution to the global adventure market, elevating the Middle East’s status as a hub for adventure seekers internationally. 
Additionally, both destinations boast an impressive heritage and rich cultural history. History buffs can start with visiting one of the various sites in Ras Al Khaimah, including four archaeological sites on the UNESCO tentative list and Suwaidi Pearls, the only pearl farm in the UAE, then head to Oman and visit the Khasab Castle and Telegraph Island, one of the famous historical sites in Musandam. In addition, incentives will be developed through this MoU to attract international visitors to these sites to preserve the captivating natural beauty and cultural traditions of each destination.
Taken together, the new strategic partnership will offer travellers a seamless experience which showcases the rich diversity of tourism offerings within the Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, making it easier than ever to explore and enjoy both destinations.

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WTM London 2023 – Day 1, Wrap Up

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Hotelbeds signs Barceló Hotel Group partnership at World Travel Market More

Miral Destinations, a subsidiary of Miral, and the trusted one-stop trade and promotional partner for Saadiyat Island and Yas Island Abu Dhabi, took part in World Travel Market 2023, a leading travel and tourism platform held in London from 6 – 8 November.With over 35,000 industry professionals from 184 countries in attendance, Miral Destinations highlighted key milestones for Abu Dhabi’s award-winning destinations at the three-day event, further expanding its portfolio of leisure, culture and entertainment offerings with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with industry players in UK market. The business collaborations aim to promote Yas Island Abu Dhabi in UK market to generate bookings, where travelers can stay longer at Yas Island Abu Dhabi and experience the variety of world-class theme parks, myriad entertainment options, sporting facilities, shopping, dining and upmarket hotels.
In addition, the 30 winners of the ‘Take ME To The Best Beach’ competition were recently announced at World Travel Market 2023, and all 30 top agents will fly to Saadiyat Island in April 2023 for a three day trip. The competition underlines the partnership between Miral Destinations and luxury tour operator IF ONLY signed earlier in May, which aims to inspire future travels to Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi based on their shared passion for luxury travel and bespoke experiences.

Liam Findlay, CEO of Miral Destinations, said: “As with every year, we take pride in being present amongst key industry players at WTM 2023, extending our achievements for Yas Island Abu Dhabi and Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi on a global travel and tourism platform. As we continue to connect with our international travelers, we remain focused on presenting tailored experiences and family-friendly packages that resonate with every preference. Likewise, we are pleased to be signing strategic partnerships further extending our offerings to key source markets that enjoy our award-winning offerings year-on-year.”
ADVERTISEMENTHe also added: “We are delighted to have seen the growing success of our international campaigns for this year, with Yas Island’s CIO campaign with Jason Momoa, and we look forward to reinforcing Saadiyat Island’s position on the global map of culture and leisure, following its recognition as the ‘Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination’ for the 12th consecutive year.”

Miral Destinations stresses its pivotal role and contribution to the UAE’s travel and tourism industry, presenting visitors and international travelers with world-class offerings and fully inclusive stays across two leading destinations. Following the opening of SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi in May of this year, Yas Island continues to raise the bar for travelers with exceptional leisure and entertainment experiences at its world-leading theme parks, in addition to year-round live entertainment and luxury accommodations at every corner of the island. Visitors of WTM 2023 experienced a first-hand view of Yas Island’s top-notch attractions, featuring renowned entertainment venue Etihad Arena and Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island’s crown jewel which plays host to the annual F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Neighboring beach destination Saadiyat Island has rapidly become an unbeatable hotspot for luxury, culture and arts fanatics, fast gaining international acclaims with a wide array of comprehensive experiences that entertain every adventurer and culture-seeker. With tons of unique attractions to delight every guest, Saadiyat Island’s participation at WTM 2023 featured award-winning offerings including the world-acclaimed museum Louvre Abu Dhabi, and leading luxury hotels and resorts such as Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas, Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort and Nurai Island.

For more information on Miral Destinations, please visit https://miral.ae/destinations/

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Gold-Standard Luxury Travel Provider Officially Launches in the UK

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Luxury Escapes, one of the world’s fastest growing travel companies, is launching into the UK giving Brits unrivalled access to the world’s best travel deals for less
• After dominating the Australian luxury travel space for more than a decade, Luxury Escapes is expanding its presence onto UK shores • The Luxury Escapes’ team of global experts curate and unlock exclusive travel offers across the world’s best resorts, hotels, tours and cruises • Luxury Escapes has a growing membership of seven million+ global members – all enjoying up to 70% savings, a wealth of curated add-ons and the assurance 24/7 customer support
London: Luxury Escapes, one of the world’s fastest growing travel companies, has announced its entrance onto UK shores, ushering a new era of unparalleled travel opportunities to millions of Brits.
Founded in Australia in 2013, Luxury Escapes is a global leader in offering the world’s best travel experiences for less, with an intuitive and user-friendly website, app and dedicated 24/7 call centre. Luxury Escapes offers a gateway to the world via tailor-made experiences on everything from world class accommodation to excursions, flights, travel insurance and car hire.
After dominating the Australian luxury travel space for more than a decade, Luxury Escapes already has more than seven million global members enjoying its exclusive offers in sought-after locations like the Maldives, Dubai, Bali and Thailand.ADVERTISEMENTWith Luxury Escapes, customers get more with every booking. Every booking is laden with more value, granting travellers up to 70% savings, a wealth of curated add-ons, and the assurance of round-the-clock customer support.
Adam Schwab, Global CEO Luxury Escapes, states, “We are confident the expansion of Luxury Escapes into the UK market is not only an exciting moment for British consumers, but the UK travel industry as a whole.  Our team of experts curate and unlock exclusive offers consumers won’t find anywhere else – allowing every traveller to experience the exceptional.”
Schwab continues, “What sets Luxury Escapes apart is that we are far more than a standard travel booking provider. It is our unwavering commitment to provide our members with more – more luxury, more expertise, more value, more service and more hand-picked inclusions than anyone else – enabling our members to unlock incredible travel offers at unbeatable prices”.
Nicolaj Munch, Luxury Escapes VP Europe commented, “We understand that organising a trip can be stressful and doesn’t always go to plan – which is where our team comes in. With one of the highest Trust Pilot ratings of any travel business anywhere in the world, our members know that they can access incredible customer service and support day or night, wherever they are.”
Luxury Escapes is free to join, with members getting access to a global team of industry experts.  To book your next escape, or to find out more information, visit https://luxuryescapes.com/gb.
Just a few of the incredible travel offers available on Luxury Escapes now:
Aleenta Phuket Resort and Spa – Five-Star Phuket Beachfront Retreat with Daily Breakfast, Nightly Dinner & Massages – save up to 76%Mai Khao Lak Thailand – Khao Lak Beachfront Bliss with Daily Breakfast, Nightly Dinner & Nightly Drinks Plus Two Kids Stay Free – save up to 74%COMO Maalifushi Maldives – COMO Maldives Boutique Private Island Retreat with Daily Breakfast, Nightly Cocktails & Roundtrip Domestic Seaplane Transfers – save up to 46%Double Six Seminyak – Bestselling Seminyak Double-Six Beachside Bliss Returns with Indulgent Dining, Massages & Daily Rooftop Free-Flow Cocktails – save up to 57%Grand Hyatt Bali – Bestselling Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua Luxury with Daily Breakfast, Nightly Dinner, Exclusive Lounge Access & Nightly Free-Flow Drinks – save up to 51%

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Premier Sports Ticketing Platform for Tourism Industry Launches at WTM London

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Research from World Travel Market London 2023, the world’s most influential travel & tourism event, has revealed that more holidaymakers are abandoning their sun loungers in favour of nature, foodie and wellness experiences.
The exclusive WTM Global Travel Report – compiled in association with renowned researchers at Oxford Economics – notes “increasing demand for unique, authentic and personalised experiences” while people are away on vacation.The report, unveiled at WTM London on 6 November, cites social listening data curated by tourism intelligence specialist Mabrian in 2023.
This “revealed that experiential activities such as wellness, nature and food tourism increased by over 10% compared with 2019”.
“Meanwhile, traditional activities such as sunbathing were less important in travellers’ motivations compared with 2019,” says the report.
It also notes how people “crave more opportunities to reconnect” in an increasingly digital world, with more meaningful in-person experiences “fast becoming the raison d’etre for travel”.ADVERTISEMENTFurthermore, climate change looks set to play a bigger role in consumers’ choice of holiday destinations and timings.
“This is already influencing travel patterns after successive hot European summers,” according to the report.
“In 2023, data from the European Travel Commission found that the popularity of Mediterranean destinations dropped by 10% compared with 2022, which was influenced at least in part by perceptions of weather.”
The climate crisis has other influences over consumer trends and government policies, says the report.
“This could mean fewer but potentially longer long-haul trips, and more local, short-haul trips,” it adds, noting a growing demand for volunteering and interacting with local communities.
“Slow travel, which involves undertaking longer but potentially fewer trips, may also become an increasingly popular trend.”
Meanwhile, many destinations have been grappling with the problems of overtourism, such as Thailand which had closed Maya Beach as thousands were lured there after it featured in The Beach.
And next year, Venice will trial a new tax on day visitors, who have a significant impact on the city’s infrastructure.
Elsewhere, outbound markets in emerging economies are continuing to grow, including China, India and Indonesia.
As these countries become more affluent, more people can afford leisure travel, prompting new trends with different demographics and cultural preferences.
“The ‘travelling class’ in China is expected to nearly double over the next 10 years,” says the report.
“However, this represents only a very small portion of Chinese citizens (2.3%) which highlights huge potential for future growth. Similar growth opportunities exist also within India and Indonesia, to name just a few.”
It also highlights how older people in China will become more affluent over time, which could mean more demand for holidays such as cruises.
Furthermore, the report notes a resurgence in the demand for travel agents as consumers seek help to make the most of their time on holiday.
Juliette Losardo, Exhibition Director at WTM London, said:
“Trends in leisure travel are quickly changing, which mean this WTM Global Travel Report is a vital snapshot for the industry to see how markets fared in 2023 and what is in store for 2024 as post-pandemic consumer demands evolve.
“Holidaymakers seem more determined to make the most of their precious time away – instead of just sun-bathing, more of them want to create treasured memories by booking experiences and excursions to get under the skin of their destination, to explore cultures, cuisine and nature.
“After lockdown, we also saw that growing desire to enjoy the outdoors and connect with other people – but in an increasingly sustainable way.
“Our report is vital for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it – and the discussions it will prompt can help to re-frame travel and tourism in a positive way for us all.”

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Leisure travel is more important than ever for consumers

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Chestertons, one of the world’s oldest and leading real estate advisory services, is galloping ahead with its international expansion with the launch of Chestertons Polo in the Park Dubai. Taking place for the first time in the Middle East and supported by the Dubai Sports Council, Chestertons Polo in the Park Dubai will be held on Saturday, 11 November at The Desert Palm Polo Club.
Chestertons, which has over 30 offices in London, UK, has sponsored Chestertons Polo in the Park London for more than 10 years, during which time it has grown and evolved into the largest three-day polo event in the world, attracting more than 30,000 people each year.
Chestertons Global, headquartered in the Middle East, is now bringing Chestertons Polo in the Park to Dubai as part of its continued international expansion. The first event is on an invitation only basis, with plans to host annual, public events from next year.
Chestertons Polo in the Park Dubai features two exciting matches between British and Middle Eastern teams.  The England Polo Team will play Northern Data Group Team Dubai, followed by Boadicea The Victorious Team Riyadh taking on Chestertons Team London.
Salah Mussa, Chairman and Owner of Chestertons Global, said: “Chestertons has proudly supported this exciting form of city polo since it first came to London in 2010. Since then, it has grown in popularity and is now a firm, much-anticipated fixture in London’s summer social and sporting calendar. ADVERTISEMENT
“With our international headquarters in the UAE, bringing our event to Dubai is a natural progression in line with our continued growth in the region and internationally.  As a leading location for world class sporting events, Dubai is the perfect destination for Polo in the Park. We look forward to a successful event on 11th November – and every year thereafter.”

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2023 has marked a triumphant chapter for Sri Lanka’s tourism industry; a return to 1 million visitors by September and a total of 1.5 million anticipated for the year. With rebranding for a strong country brand to be launched at WTM, enhanced trade partnerships and collaboration, and a substantial Global Tourism Brand marketing budget for 2024 the destination looks set for further growth in 2024.
Despite the challenges that loomed at the beginning of the year, including an economic downturn, dollar deficits, and commodity price hikes, Sri Lanka’s resilient and resourceful government efficiently managed the situation, swiftly putting the nation back on its feet. This positive turn of events ushered in a reinvigorated tourism sector including the operation of new airlines with improved airline connectivity and increased cruise calls. In September a notable milestone was achieved as Sri Lanka welcomed its one millionth tourist arrival.
Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has proven its competitive edge, especially compared to regional counterparts such as the Maldives, India. The UK, Germany, France and Russia are the primary source markets driving growth. The positive trend continues, and Sri Lanka remains optimistic about surpassing its annual target of 1.5 million tourists by the year-end.
At WTM, Sri Lanka is poised to unveil a new brand for tourism. The “check-in” campaigns, already underway, will pave the way for a “thematic” campaign in the coming year, 2024. Its primary objective is to attract more visitors from key markets through these strategic campaigns while championing sustainable tourism initiatives. Visitors to WTM can find out more at the opening ceremony of the stand, press conference and networking event. 
“The Ministry and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s paramount focus is to create a robust country brand through a comprehensive rebranding exercise, highlighting Sri Lanka’s unique assets. To achieve this, we will prioritise the key source markets through year-round digital and PR campaigns, with a particular emphasis on the UK” commented the Hon. Minister of Tourism, Harin Fernando “Ongoing promotions will introduce new initiatives to maintain a competitive edge for the destination” he added. ADVERTISEMENTThe UK is traditionally an important market for Sri Lanka. British visitors enjoy the unique culture, many historical sites, wildlife, diverse gastronomy and tea plantations with their British architectural style.
Sri Lankan Airlines, the national carrier, is gearing up to extend its routes, connecting more UK cities and other key destinations, thereby providing travellers with convenient access to Sri Lanka. Details of these expansion plans will be unveiled shortly.
Enhanced Partnerships and Collaboration were secured in 2023, through country partner status with key travel associations such as ABTA and the ITAA, while maintaining a longstanding relationship with Antor. These affiliations strengthen Sri Lanka’s rapport with the UK travel trade and allow it to deepen relationships with influential media outlets and journalists through collaborative efforts.

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