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MAG (Manchester Airports Group) this weekend announced a £440m investment in Manchester Airport that will create thousands of jobs and unlock billions of pounds of economic value for the North over the next decade.The investment will transform the passenger experience at the UK’s third largest airport, with new spacious facilities, state-of-the-art technology and equipment, and an exciting array of shops, bars, restaurants and airport lounges.
It will see Manchester Airport expand its role as the UK’s global gateway in the North, connecting the region to even more international destinations, including some of the world’s most important economic markets.
The investment is the final phase of the £1.3bn Manchester Airport Transformation Programme (MAN-TP), first announced in 2015 with a 10-year vision to revolutionise the customer experience at the Northern hub and unlock the potential of its two full-length runways.
The first phase saw Terminal 2 more than double in size, with the new facility having received positive feedback from passengers and airlines since opening in July 2021.
This latest investment will complete the transformation of Terminal 2, delivering improvement to all stages of the passenger journey – from check-in to baggage reclaim – as well as upgrading its airfield to cater for next generation aircraft.ADVERTISEMENTUpon completion in 2025, around 80% of all passengers will use the expanded Terminal 2, with Terminal 1 set to close – 63 years after it was opened by the Duke of Edinburgh, in 1962.
More than 500 jobs will be created in the construction phase alone, while independent analysis shows around 16,400 extra jobs will be generated by 2040 as a result of the economic activity stimulated by the expansion of the airport and its route network.
The same research – by York Aviation – reveals that Manchester Airport’s current contribution to the Northern economy of £3.5bn is expected to soar by nearly 80%, to £6.3bn by 2040 as a result of the full delivery of the transformation programme.
And a further £2.9bn boost will be triggered through the increased productivity of businesses travelling and trading globally through Manchester over the same period.
Charlie Cornish, CEO of MAG, said: “Manchester Airport is a key economic asset for the North, and this investment will maximise the contribution it makes to creating a balanced and globally competitive UK economy.
“Our £1.3bn transformation programme demonstrates our long-term commitment to providing a great airport experience for passengers who travel through Manchester. I’m delighted to be announcing the go-ahead for the final phase, which will open in 2025, connecting the people and businesses of the North to dozens more global destinations, and creating jobs and stimulating increased levels of trade and tourism.”
Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, said: “It is hugely exciting to be announcing this significant investment in Manchester Airport. It represents a major milestone in the history of both our airport, and the region as a whole.
“By completing the transformation of Terminal 2, we will not only be offering passengers across the North an unrivalled choice of destinations, but also providing them with world class facilities and a great overall experience when they travel through Manchester.
“I cannot wait to see the plans come to fruition, for the benefit of all of our customers, colleagues and supporters.”
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “As the aviation industry recovers after Covid, it’s great news to see this significant vote of confidence in the UK.
“This investment will be a huge boost for the North, benefitting passengers flying in and out of the region as well as supporting thousands of jobs.”
The expanded Terminal 2 has already welcomed a number of new airlines to Manchester, and seen the launch or relaunch of a string of key routes.
Examples include a brand-new service to Kuwait, a revived service to Beijing and a first UK Transatlantic base for AerLingus.
Enabling works for the second phase of the project are already underway, and planned improvements include:
– Doubling the size of the existing departure lounge, with a wider selection of shops and food and drink outlets, showcasing the best of what the North has to offer
– The construction of an additional security hall, fitted with next-generation security scanners.
– A new pier, matching the look and feel of the first pier that opened in 2019. It will include spacious gates
– A new dual taxiway system to improve airfield efficiency, with flexible aircraft stands
– More than doubling the terminal’s hold baggage capacity to over 5,000 bags per hour, with two new teardrop check in islands.
The news has been welcomed by business and political leaders.
Deepa Bharadwaj, Head of Infrastructure Europe, IFM Investors, said:
“This announcement is extremely positive news for Manchester Airport, its colleagues, passengers and airline customers.
“As a pension fund owned infrastructure investor, IFM’s commitment to MAG is very long-term, unlocking significant value for the North of England, and the UK economy as a whole.”
Damian Waters, Regional Director – CBI, said:
“I am delighted to hear that Manchester Airport is making such a major investment in its facilities and am excited to see the positive impact this will have on the region as a whole.
“This is yet another demonstration of not only MAG’s long-term commitment to providing an excellent experience for passengers and airlines, but also the key role it continues to play as a true driver of economic growth and success for the North West.”
Henri Murison, Chief Executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, said
“As the international gateway to the North of England, Manchester Airport acts as a critical player in our economy, supporting thousands of jobs and unlocking billions in economic value by facilitating tourism, trade and investment.
“This major investment will sit at the heart of plans to make the North one of the most competitive economic regions in the world, helping the North realise its full potential while rebalancing the UK economy.
“Over the past decade the Northern Powerhouse has built up a heavyweight reputation around the globe, with foreign direct investment up more than 72% in the last five years. This transformation project from Manchester Airport will help to cement our position on the world stage and attract even more visitors and investors in the years to come.”
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said:
“Manchester Airport is a massive asset to our city region, connecting those living and working here to global destinations, as well as helping attract visitors, tourists and inward investment.
“The further investment in the Manchester Airport transformation programme will enhance Greater Manchester’s international credentials and make a major contribution to the northern economy.
“The project is also doing a huge amount to create employment for people from all backgrounds and providing training that will ensure it leaves a skills legacy for future generations.”
Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said:
“We welcome this important investment in a thriving future for Manchester Airport.
“It is a boost not just for the airport itself but for Manchester, and Greater Manchester, as a whole. The airport is a vital asset which helps attract employment and investment to the city and supports tens of thousands of jobs, both directly and through the wider visitor economy. Having this global connectivity is a major competitive advantage for Manchester.
“As well as boosting the airport, this next phase of the transformation programme will also create thousands of jobs which Manchester people can access, including young people getting started in their careers.
“This scale of investment, underpinned by a long-term vision to transform the airport and its facilities, is a real statement of confidence.”
Rhys Whalley, Interim Managing Director at MIDAS, Manchester’s Inward Investment Agency said:
“Manchester Airport’s next phase of investment is another significant boost to Greater Manchester’s offering, as one of the most accessible cities in the UK.
Not only will this transformation help to secure more high value routes, it will also create a world class hub connecting the North of the UK to key markets internationally. Both those factors combined will make us an even more attractive place for international investors and I can’t wait to see it come to fruition.”
Richard Sofer, TUI’s Commercial and Business Development Director said:
“The news of Manchester Airport’s redevelopment is hugely exciting, for both our customers and TUI colleagues based at Manchester.
“As one of our major airport hubs, TUI flies to more than 40 holiday hotspots from Manchester, so it’s great to hear about the plans for the evolution of the airport, with passengers benefitting from the new facilities, shops, bars and restaurants once the project is completed.
“We look forward to continuing to work together with the team at Manchester Airport and our TUI colleagues to create more holiday memories for our customers in the North West.”
Sheona Southern, Managing Director at Marketing Manchester, said;
“This year Lonely Planet and National Geographic have named Manchester a must-visit city, so it is great to hear about Manchester Airport’s investment to strengthen its position as a major international hub for the city, and gateway to the North. As the volume of international visitors to Greater Manchester increases, it is reassuring to know Manchester Airport will be ready to handle demand and offer visitors a warm welcome and a positive travel experience.”
Lou Cordwell, Chair of Greater Manchester Business Board (LEP), said:
“Today’s announcement on the next phase of the Manchester Airport Transformation Programme is fantastic news for people and businesses in Greater Manchester and across the wider North.
“Manchester Airport has an integral role in the North’s economy, connecting us with the rest of the world and supporting businesses who export goods and services overseas. As well as creating hundreds of jobs in the immediate term, the improvements being delivered will enable and support economic activity for decades to come.”
Emma Degg, CEO of the North West Business Leadership Team, said:
“‘Manchester Airport is an essential transport hub for the North West – it connects us to key markets, the international investment community, students and visitors. If the region is to continue to grow and competitive effectively across the world, business requires an airport of truly global class, and this latest phase of the transformation programme will help to deliver what we need long into the future.”
Trevor Brocklebank, Deputy Chair of Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership and Chair of Marketing Cheshire, said:
“For millions of people every year Manchester Airport is their gateway to everything Cheshire and Warrington has to offer.
“This investment will mean even more people can visit and enjoy our sub-region as well as creating jobs for our residents and helping our economy and the economy across the North grow.”
Gill Haigh, Managing Director at Cumbria Tourism, said:
“Manchester Airport is a vital travel hub for the North West, it’s the gateway for international visitors to get to the Lake District, Cumbria. These upgrades propose access from even more overseas destinations, including some of the world’s highest spending economic markets which is set to be to be a major boost for the future of inbound tourism.
“The Lake District, Cumbria had become an established destination choice for the many international markets who absolutely love the history and culture the area has to offer, with an increasing number of independent travellers exploring more widely and discovering the hidden gems dotted around our diverse county so this is great news and we look forward to the improvement plans at Manchester Airport”Rachel McQueen, Chief Executive at Marketing Lancashire, said:
“Manchester Airport is one of the most important gateways to Lancashire, offering visitors from around the world the opportunity to experience the county’s rich culture and heritage, incredible countryside, 137 miles of beautiful coastline, as well as our renowned, warm hospitality. It also opens up vital connections and new international markets for Lancashire’s leading industries, manufacturers, universities and educational establishments.
“News of new routes and enhancements to the customer experience at Manchester Airport, come hot on the heels of the government announcement of £200m levelling-up funding for Lancashire projects. This includes the £50m funding needed for the much-anticipated Eden Project Morecambe; a world-class environmental destination set to attract around 740,000 new visitors a year to Lancashire, when it opens in 2026.
“We look forward to developing our work with Manchester Airport, North West tourism colleagues and stakeholders, to increase visitor numbers to Lancashire and to exploiting any new opportunities for Lancashire’s tourism and hospitality businesses, now and in the future.”
Professor Stephen Flint, Associate Vice-President International at The University of Manchester said:
“We welcome this announcement. Staff and students who make essential trips to overseas partners will benefit from more direct routes, which is more efficient. The improvements to passenger experience will make our city a more attractive destination, including for students, to the benefit of the regional economy.”
Paul Stowers, Head of Exports in the Northern Powerhouse at Department for International Trade said:
“It’s wonderful to see these developments for the transformation and expansion continue, positively impacting on trade and investment in the North. This new capacity at Manchester Airport will help our businesses grow further, expanding their global reach and making the journey much more exciting.”
Chris Brown, Director of Marketing Liverpool, said:
“We’re delighted to hear that Manchester Airports Group has announced this significant investment of the Manchester Airport Transformation Programme. Not only will it benefit passengers travelling through the airport with brand new routes and world class facilities, but it will open up Liverpool City Region as a destination to attract long haul global audiences.”
Terry Hayward, Chief Executive of North Cheshire Chamber, said:
“Manchester Airport’s announcement of a £440m investment in the next phase of their Transformation Programme could not have come at a better time. This major infrastructure project will provide a much-needed boost to the local economy both in the construction phase and afterwards, as the capacity of the airport continues to increase. Manchester Airport is critical to so many north Cheshire businesses both for business travel and for freight and as it continues to attract new airlines and open up new routes it will bring more businesses to the area and more visitors.”
Mark Casci, Head of Policy and Representation at West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said:
“This announcement will unlock economic growth and job creation across multiple fronts around the North of England.
“Businesses in Yorkshire will benefit from increased trading opportunities in key worldwide markets because of this expansion and we welcome the investment which will bring manifold benefits to our region.
“We look forward to seeing new routes being opened up, as well as enhanced services on pre-existing corridors.”
Chris Fletcher, Policy Director, Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, said:
“This is great news and comes at a critical time for the local and national economy not just in supporting jobs on the ground, but also by taking a positive step forward by investing in a critical part of the North’s infrastructure. At a time when it seems many projects are being given second thoughts, this decision reaffirms Manchester Airport’s status as a genuine gateway to the rest of the world and will unlock tourist and commercial traffic opportunities now and in the future.”

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Golf in Saudi Arabia is set to embark upon the next phase of its growth among golfing nations around the world, following the appointment of Noah Alireza as new CEO of Golf Saudi. He succeeds Majed AlSorour in the role.
Alireza is a former member of the Saudi Arabian national team who has represented his country at the Asian Games. He brings a wealth of experience in strategic advisory serving some of Saudi Arabia’s most influential entities within the public and private sectors, is a lifelong student of the game of golf and a graduate of Brown University.

Alireza’s remit will be to activate and accelerate Golf Saudi’s mandate in creating and serving new demand for golf in Saudi Arabia, through mass participation programmes and increasing access to the sport in the country.
AlSorour, whose four years at the helm saw unprecedented progress in Saudi Arabia’s golfing landscape, will remain as Board Member of Golf Saudi, Board Member and Deputy Chairman of the Saudi Golf Federation and Secretary of the Arab Golf Federation.ADVERTISEMENTSince its formation in 2018, Golf Saudi has created opportunities for more people to experience the benefits of golf. In the last year alone, over 50,000 individuals have been introduced to golf through a wide variety of activities.
The organisation has placed equal emphasis on the development of a sustainable ecosystem for the sport, creating the world’s first National Sustainability Strategy for golf, centred upon environmental, social and economic impacts. This has included alignment with the United Nations’ Sport for Climate Action Framework and the creation of higher education programmes in collaboration with the Club Managers Association of Europe (CMAE) and the National Training Center for Facilities and Hospitality Management (FHM Academy).

“I’m honoured to start this role and be part of the future of the Golf ecosystem in Saudi,” said Alireza. “Golf Saudi is set to deliver significant initiatives and programmes aligned with the objectives of Vision 2030 to improve quality of life and sports mass participation; my goal is to ensure that the acceleration and activation of these creates a highly significant impact on the nation.
“The task at hand is to further enhance the country’s masterplan for golf and, in hand with private and public sector bodies, create an unparalleled ecosystem which derives incredible value for the people of Saudi Arabia and visitors from around the world.
“I appreciate the trust of Golf Saudi’s Board for giving me this opportunity, and I would like to thank my predecessor, Mr. Majed AlSorour, for his role during the foundational phase of the organization.”
Today’s announcement comes on the cusp of an historic event season, with no fewer than four international events upon the men’s and women’s global schedules set to take place in Saudi Arabia in 2023, starting next week at the PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers. These occasions serve as a crucial point of inspiration for future generations of golfers, and are fundamental to the national golf development strategy.

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With so many choices about where to go, where to stay and what to do, figuring out all the details that go into a vacation can be overwhelming. That’s why National Plan for Vacation Day is the perfect time to learn about the advantages of using a travel advisor.National Plan for Vacation Day — Jan. 31 this year — is celebrated on the last Tuesday in January and organized by the U.S. Travel Association. It’s designed to encourage Americans to plan their vacation days for the entire year at the start of the year.“We know that many Americans often don’t take all of the vacation time that they get,” said J.D. O’Hara, CEO, Internova Travel Group, one of the industry’s largest travel services companies representing more than 100,000 travel advisors worldwide. “Countless studies have shown that taking time off has tremendous benefits for our physical and mental well-being. Vacations give us a chance to explore new places, reduce stress and strengthen bonds with family and friends. And if you really want a low-stress experience, let a travel advisor do all the work.”
When it comes to booking a vacation, nearly 80 percent of Americans prefer working with a human being over an online travel agency, according to an Internova survey. And younger travelers are increasingly using the services of a travel professional, especially in light of disruptions caused by the pandemic.
Travel advisors have developed a deep relationship with supplier partners in all facets of a trip. They have exclusive access to discounts, perks and booking options that benefit their clients.
For example, Internova’s SELECT Hotels & Resorts is a carefully curated collection of more than 1,600 of the world’s most distinguished premium properties where clients receive special amenities. Internova SELECT In-Country Partners is a carefully vetted international portfolio of more than 150 destination management companies and specialty tour operators.
Travel advisors have years of experience in planning a variety of trips and they’re passionate travelers themselves, with firsthand knowledge of the most popular destinations both domestically and abroad. They do the research, saving time and providing clients with the best options for their needs and budget.ADVERTISEMENTMost importantly, travel advisors provide peace of mind. Their clients can be confident that if any questions or problems arise during their trip, they can contact a real human being who knows them.
Travel Weekly’s 34th annual Travel Industry Survey, conducted by Phocuswright and sponsored by Internova, asked travel advisors to select the top benefits they provide that their clients would not be able to get on their own. Their top responses included full support and travel advice from an expert, advocacy for clients, including making sure they get a refund or credit if their travel plans change, creating personalized, curated travel itineraries and exclusive access to travel experiences.
While the market for artificial intelligence is growing rapidly, it’s clear that for some transactions, consumers prefer working with a human being and they prefer the personal service that only a travel advisor can provide.
A survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Internova found that consumers appreciate the benefits of connecting with a real human being versus using an automated website when making a purchase, including booking a trip.
Seven in 10 respondents said they feel they get better service when speaking with a person and 63 percent feel more confident that issues will be resolved when they work with a person, versus doing things digitally. They get more detailed information about their options, have the ability to ask follow-up questions and receive responses that are tailored to their situation.
Internova Travel Group includes the world’s most experienced and well-traveled leisure, luxury and corporate travel advisors. To find an Internova advisor, go to internova.com/advisors.

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At Orlando’s PGA Show, Lazio Golf District showcases Rome and Lazio’s 22 clubs

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The big Ryder Cup 2023 event, scheduled for September 29-October 1 in Rome, Italy, is now just around the corner and day after day attracts more and more attention from fans and insiders around the world.This is why Lazio Golf District – a DMO created with the support of the Lazio region and the Castel Gandolfo and Fiuggi clubs – has chosen to attend the prestigious PGA Show 2023, a theme show on the world of golf scheduled from January 24 to 27, 2023 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando (FL). This is a way to raise awareness of the golf courses in Rome and Lazio, but above all of the interesting sightseeing places that the region offers.
For golfers from all over the world, experiencing the Ryder Cup means not only witnessing a golf tournament of the highest level – where the greatest American players challenge the European ones in a clash that promises to be spectacular – but also being able to immerse themselves in a welcoming territory rich in tourist destinations, which perfectly matches the needs of golf tourism.
Precisely for this reason, the Lazio Golf District has been working for months now to offer an increasingly unique experience that flanks the purely sporting side and better intercepts the needs of that qualified segment of tourists, who not only want to live the Ryder Cup experience in full but also admire the beauty that Rome and the Lazio region offer.
Thanks to the agreement with various partners, the Lazio Golf District already offers structured packages uniquely designed for golfers, with stays in the best hotels and resorts, as well as artistic, cultural and food&wine experiences among the best in the area, which can be purchased here: www.laziogolfdistrict.com
Within a radius of 130 km, the Lazio Golf District promotes 22 facilities including the prestigious Marco Simone Golf & Country Club that will host the 2023 Ryder Cup.ADVERTISEMENTIn detail, Lazio includes 11 courses with at least 18 holes, plus another 11 clubs, where it is possible to find driving ranges or 9-hole courses. Spread throughout Lazio, these facilities offer visitors the chance to play golf in sought-after atmospheres rich in tradition, such as spas, natural parks or archaeological sites.
Italy’s capital city, with its 8 competition courses of at least 18 holes plus another 5 including driving ranges and 9-hole courses, is undoubtedly the most popular destination with the Colosseum, the Imperial Forums and all the beauties of a rich artistic and cultural heritage. The provinces of Lazio are also rich in sights that seamlessly draw the attention of golfers. Sutri, the Castelli Romani, Lake Bracciano, Caprarola, Civita di Bagnoregio, Ostia Antica, mount Soratte, Tivoli, Fiuggi, and Viterbo are just some of the places not to be missed that also bring with them a great food&wine tradition, a peculiarity of the region.
Info: [email protected] – Reservations: [email protected]

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The Yucatán Tourism Observatory was established in 2018 to generate and manage information around tourism development. This work has identified key challenges and opportunities and so led to the design of relevant policies aimed at supporting the destination’s overall sustainable development, thereby increasing its competitiveness. Joining the INSTO Network will help Yucatán manage tourism development in a responsible and sustainable manner, taking a holistic view in developing adequate and innovative strategies for “rethinking” tourism.
UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “In this time of rethinking tourism, measurement is increasingly important as it provides a better understanding of where a destination stands and where it wants to go. The INSTO network provides an opportunity to work together to ensure that tourism is a tool that contributes to sustainable development. We are very pleased to welcome Yucatán as a new member.”
Green and sustainable future plans for Yucatán´s tourism
The INSTO network provides an opportunity to work together to ensure that tourism is a tool that contributes to sustainable development. We are very pleased to welcome Yucatán as a new member
Yucatán is home to the Maya, has an extensive coastline, is mostly covered by forests, jungles and has numerous cenotes, sinkholes created by collapsed limestone rocks that expose groundwater. This and other tourism resources attracted 2.1 million overnight tourists in 2019, two-thirds of them domestic tourists. Tourism GDP accounts for 11,1% of Yucatán’s overall GDP. According to the vision of the Secretariat of Tourism of the State of Yucatán (SEFOTUR) “In 2030 tourism is widely recognized as a key sector that benefits Yucatán society, and to conduct tourism development in consensus with industry actors and with a full insertion of society in the benefits of tourism”. Among the environmental priorities climate action, ecosystem restoration and conservation, water quality preservation, and sustainable energy supply are cited, as well as the need to create a culture of sustainability within Yucatán society.ADVERTISEMENTYucatan’s Secretary of Tourism, Michelle Fridman Hirsch, noted: “We are very pleased to have been enrolled in the UNWTO’s INSTO network, as we become the second Observatory in Mexico to be part of this network, which will allow us to better evaluate the impact of tourism in Yucatan and contribute with better data to global sustainable tourism”.
Yucatán’s Tourism Observatory will monitor the 11 mandatory INSTO key areas for tourism sustainability: tourism seasonality, employment, economic benefits of the destination, energy management, water management, wastewater management, solid waste management, climate action, accessibility, local satisfaction and governance.

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The Galleria Al Maryah Island surpassed expectations with exceptional performance in 2022 establishing new annual records including a 17% rise in sales and a 10% rise in footfall versus the previous year – reinforcing its positioning as the premier lifestyle and shopping destination in Abu Dhabi.The Galleria attracted more than 34 million guests and welcomed 76 new stores and concepts to its collection in 2022. Featuring a dynamic mix of experiences, the new tenants include fitness brands Barry’s and TRAIN, luxury concepts Bally, Breitling, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piquet, fine dining restaurants such as Asador de Aranda, and entertainment concepts like Pop In & Play among others.
By continually elevating the guest experience, The Galleria saw consistent growth throughout the year and achieved multiple record-breaking footfall and sales months, which culminated in the busiest month for the destination to date in December. This steady growth trajectory is a testament to The Galleria’s comprehensive offering, which provides guests with exceptional experiences across categories, and has established it as the community’s destination of choice in the capital. 

Commenting on these achievements, David Robinson, CEO of Al Maryah Retail Company, said; “We are very proud of the experiences we offer the community. The team at Al Maryah Retail Company have done an excellent job of elevating these even further over the past 12 months and more, and this is reflected in the outstanding results achieved in 2022. This exceptional performance is a result of our continuous efforts to provide bespoke market-leading offerings at The Galleria. We continue to attract internationally renowned brands and introduce exclusive concepts to the market, while many of our long-standing brands are reinvesting in the destination to ensure they continue to attract guests with a fresh modern offer.
ADVERTISEMENTOver the coming months more industry-leading brands will call The Galleria home, further expanding and diversifying our offering across shopping, dining and entertainment. The fact that we continue to attract such strong global names and industry game-changers to Abu Dhabi is a testament to The Galleria’s established position as a market leader, and its continued growth and success.”

As an industry leader, The Galleria will continue to drive the region’s fashion, dining and entertainment with the launch of several highly anticipated and exclusive concepts including luxury fashion icon Hermès, a first to market concept by Mattel, waterfront dining venues Flamingo Room, Craft by Side Hustle and more.

In addition to introducing exclusive concepts, The Galleria aims to enhance guests’ experiences in 2023 through complimentary community programmes such as yoga and Let’s Walk, leisure spaces including rooftop parks, and a full calendar of seasonal and community events, providing a free and easy way for people to connect, spend time together and live a healthier lifestyle.

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The original icon of the rails, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe, unveils four new winter journeys between Paris and the French Alps. Launching in December 2023, the blue-and-gold carriages will glide through some of France’s most untouched countryside and up to the alpine train stations of Albertville, Moûtiers and Bourg-Saint-Maurice.With the option to disembark in either of the three stations, guests will be able to access the ski resorts of Megève and the Mont Blanc; Courchevel and Three Valleys; and Tignes-Val d’Isère in the most glamorous way possible.
ONE TRAIN, ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
One of the original birthplaces of luxury winter tourism, the French Alps are internationally regarded as the gold standard of ski destinations, with their picture-perfect peaks, slopes catering to all competency levels, Michelin starred restaurants, and alpine chic bars.
From December 2023, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will welcome keen skiers, mountain enthusiasts and epicureans on board for its Alpine debut. With eight new Suites joining the rake in June 2023, next winter the train will offer a trio of cabin categories to suit every traveller: the timeless Historic Cabins, lavish new Suites and opulent Grand Suites. Departing from Paris in the evening, guests can unwind into the warmth of their art-deco surroundings with a glass of champagne, as the train gently heads out to the Alps. Shortly after departure, guests are invited to pay a visit to the beating heart of the train, Bar Car ‘3674’, for a round of cocktails while the pianist plays in the background. Bon vivants are then drawn to the three dining cars, where they will be treated to a menu of seasonal dishes designed by French Chef Jean Imbert using the finest local produce. Suspended between past and present, guests can return to the Bar Car for a nightcap with fellow travellers, or retreat to their cabins which have been carefully transformed by their steward for night time. The following morning, they wake to the enchanted scenery of the Savoie region and indulge in a breakfast of French viennoiserie, in the privacy of their cabins. To refuel before an afternoon of skiing and alpine activities, a delicious brunch will be served in the dining cars before the train arrives in Albertville, the first of the three Alpine stops.TAKING SLOW TRAVEL TO NEW HEIGHTS
Next year, eight new Suites will elevate the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express’ existing accommodation with four different designs reflecting the ever-changing European landscape: La Campagne (the countryside), Les Montagnes (the mountains), Les Lacs (the lakes) and La Forêt (the forest). The new Suites are the result of an attentive and respectful restoration of two original carriages by French craftsmen and designers, who have reimagined the spaces whilst maintaining their golden era of travel look and feel. Each Suite will immerse guests in diverse scenery through vivid colours, plush fabrics, intricate textures and furnishings channeling famed Art Deco designers, such as Majorelle, Dufrene, Leleu, Rousseau, Prou and Lalique. Offering an experience that bridges the train’s iconic history and modern comfort, the new Suites add to the charm of the historic cabins a private marble ensuite bathroom, and a more spacious lounging area by day, converted to either double or twin beds by night.ADVERTISEMENTGuided by the pioneering spirit that placed it at the forefront of luxury rail travel since 1982, the Venice SimplonOrient-Express will run four new French Alps journeys in the second half of December 2023: from Paris to the French Alps on 15th and 21st December 2023, and from the French Alps to Paris on the 16th and 22nd of December 2023. The new routes amplify the current wintertime offering, which already features trips to Vienna, Florence, Paris and Venice, while strengthening the presence of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in France.
An overnight stay in Historic Cabin starts at £3,785pp while in the new Suites it starts at £7,300pp. Rates include dinner, breakfast and brunch as well as all soft drinks and shared transfer to Gare De Lyon in Paris. Guests staying in the Grand Suites can also benefit from a private car transfer from Albertville, Moûtiers or Bourg-Saint-Maurice to their final destination (overnight stays start at £9,975pp). For further information or to book, please visit Belmond.com

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New research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals French capital Paris as the world’s most powerful city destination but predicts it will be overtaken by Beijing by 2032. The report, sponsored by Visa and researched in partnership with Oxford Economics, analysed key indicators such as Travel & Tourism’s contribution to GDP, employment and traveller spend.
COVID-19 had a devastating impact on Travel & Tourism and in particular major cities around the world as countries closed their borders in response to the pandemic.
As borders reopened, many leisure travellers swapped city visits for less-populated destinations such as coastal and rural destinations, but latest research from WTTC shows that city holidays are back and growing in popularity.
Paris takes the crown as the world’s most powerful city destination with a Travel & Tourism sector worth almost $36BN USD in 2022, in terms of direct GDP contribution to the city.
Over the next 10 years, WTTC predicts it will drop down to third place, although its value will rise to over $49BN.ADVERTISEMENTBeijing is currently the second biggest city destination in the world with a Travel & Tourism sector worth nearly $33BN. However, WTTC predicts it will leapfrog Paris within the next 10 years, growing to a staggering $77BN.
Often dubbed the theme park capital of the world, Orlando’s Travel & Tourism sector was valued at $31BN in 2022, but despite predictions suggesting it will grow by almost 50% to $45BN by 2032, it will drop down to become the fourth biggest city destination.
China’s national Travel & Tourism sector has seen phenomenal growth over the last decade as the country has invested in new hotels, transport infrastructure and new tourist destinations.
This investment in Travel & Tourism sees Shanghai’s sector, worth nearly $30BN last year, predicted to more than double to almost $71BN by 2032, to become the world’s second most powerful city destination.
Las Vegas is the only city in the top 10 list which holds its place, firmly staying as the 5th largest city destination.
Last year, Las Vegas’s Travel & Tourism sector was worth nearly $23BN and is predicted to grow to over $36BN by 2032.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Major cities such as London, Paris and New York will remain global powerhouses but over the next few years, Beijing, Shanghai, and Macau will be moving up the list of top city destinations.
“Tourists will always have favourite cities that they will return to, but as other countries prioritise Travel & Tourism, we are going to see new and emerging destinations challenging the traditional favourites.”
Other cities outside the top 10 showing promising growth as emerging destinations include the Polish capital of Warsaw which has seen a 14.4% increase in its GDP contribution in 2022 versus 2019.
Sanya, the Chinese coastal city which has become a popular tourist destination in recent years as holidaymakers visited its stunning beaches witnessed a 10.2% growth during that same period. Its Travel & Tourism sector represents an incredible 43.6% of the city’s total economy. Macau’s Travel & Tourism sector represents 40.4% of the city’s total economy.
Orlando and Las Vegas are the only cities currently in the top 10 most powerful city destinations based on the sector’s value, which rely heavily on the sector as a share of the city’s overall economy.
Travel & Tourism represents 20.4% of Orlando’s economy and 16.3% of Las Vegas’s economy. In comparison, Paris’s Travel & Tourism sector represents just 3.5% of the capital’s economy in 2022.
•  The top five cities with biggest international travellers spend in 2022 were:
1.  Dubai – $29.42BN2.  Doha – $16.79BN3.  London – $16.07BN4.  Macau – $15.58BN5.  Amsterdam – $13.59BN6.  Istanbul – $13.13BN7.  Barcelona – $12.73BN8.  New York – $12.45BN9.  Singapore – $10.97BN10.  Paris – $9.76BN
•  In 2032, WTTC predicts the top five cities with biggest international traveller spend will change to be:
1.  Hong Kong – $52.06BN (up 38 places from 2022)2.  Macau – $43.14BN (up two places from 2022)3.  Dubai – $42.98BN (down two places from 2022)4.  Singapore – $37.43BN (up five places from 2022)5.  Bangkok – $33.45BN (up seven places from 2022)6.  Doha – $31.63BN (down four places from 2022)7.  Tokyo $25.44BN (up 30 places from 2022)8.  New York $21.73BN (no change from 2022)9.  Amsterdam $21.53BN (down four places from 2022)10.  Shanghai – $21.3BN (up 11 places from 2022)
Over the next decade, Travel & Tourism is on track to become a key driver of economic growth once again, with faster GDP growth than other sectors, generating 126 million new jobs around the world.

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