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Norwegian Cruise Line picks actor Eric Stonestreet as godfather of the Norwegian Aqua

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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced that it has appointed two-time Emmy Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet as the godfather of its latest vessel, the Norwegian Aqua.

The groundbreaking ship sets sail on its initial voyage in April 2025.

As a charismatic and relatable celebrity figure through his role in the hit television series Modern Family, Stonestreet has brought joy to audiences through his humour. 

Similarly, NCL brings joy to its guests with the variety of elevated experiences that empower guests to have their own best vacation with more of what they love across its 19-ship fleet and the 450 destinations it visits around the world.

According to NCL president David J Herrera: “Over the past couple of months, Eric has become a true friend of NCL. His authenticity, wit, charm and genuine desire to bring happiness to the masses embodies the role of godfather for Norwegian Aqua, as well as who we are and what we stand for as a company.”

Godfather duties

Stonestreet will play a pivotal role in officially welcoming the beautiful new Norwegian Aqua to NCL’s fleet as the ship’s godfather. 

On 13 April 2025 in Miami, Stonestreet will lead the time-honoured tradition of christening the vessel by breaking a champagne bottle across its bow, a classic maritime custom performed by the ship’s godparent. 

This act is meant to bring good fortune for the life of the vessel and all the passengers that may sail on her throughout her journeys.

Stonestreet said of this unique role: I am honoured to be named the godfather of Norwegian Aqua and to play my part in the journey of bringing this new ship to life. I am blown away by what’s in store for Norwegian Aqua.”

Ready to sail off

After completing her christening voyage, Norwegian Aqua will depart on seven-day itineraries from one of the most popular cruise ports, Port Canaveral, Fla. beginning 26th April.

As the first ship in NCL’s Prima Plus Class, Norwegian Aqua will boast even more elevated amenities and experiences with guests able to indulge in a variety of bars and restaurants including the new upscale Thai specialty restaurant, Sukhothai; the plant-based eatery in Indulge Food Hall, Planterie; and the contemporary wine lounge, Swirl Wine Bar.

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Japan Airlines and Hoshino Resorts team up to mitigate overtourism

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Japan Airlines (JAL) and Hoshino Resorts are working together to combat overtourism and boost regional revitalisation in Japan via their joint All-time Favourites vs Hidden Gems campaign.

The two companies aim to attract visitors to regions outside of Japan’s major metropolitan areas by promoting the unique charm of lesser-known destinations where many untapped tourism resources lie. 

Both JAL and Hoshino Resorts have introduced extensive content on the dedicated campaign website, covering themes such as cherry blossoms, festivals, autumn leaves, snow and nature/activities. 

The site also highlights the all-time favourites that are loved by visitors and hidden gems that have yet to be fully explored.

Japanese tourism today in numbers

According to the annual Accommodation Travel Statistical Survey by the Japan Tourism Agency, the total number of foreign guest nights in 2023 reached approximately 117.75 million nationwide, surpassing the pre-pandemic level of 2019.

Five prefectures including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hokkaido, and Fukuoka accounted for 73 percent of the total share, with only a small number of inbound tourists travelling to more rural areas.

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37 women achievers in Indian Aviation felicitated

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Women in Aviation India (WAI) held its 3rd edition of the iconic Awards – Giving Wings to Dreams 2024  at Roseate House New Delhi, felicitating 37 women achievers who have contributed significantly to the aviation sector. The award ceremony took place in the distinguished presence of Shri Vumlunmang Vualnam, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India and other eminent dignitaries present at the ceremony included Smt. Usha Padhee, IAS, Principal Secretary, Commerce & Transport Dept., Govt. of Odisha and Mr. Vipin Kumar, IAS – Chairman AAI.

These Awards recognize excellence in diverse fields of aviation and help build a value chain where achievers inspire the next generation. Following a thorough selection process, led by an eminent jury comprising of stalwarts of the industry, successful women aviators across categories of airside operations, terminal operations, ground support, flight dispatchers, airline security, fire rescue, engineering, communication, cabin crew and flight operations were felicitated at the award ceremony. Women achievers from nodal aviation authorities BCAS, DGCA, CISF and Pawan Hans were also recognized for service excellence.

“At the Ministry of Civil Aviation it is a very satisfying moment for us to see this initiative of Women in Aviation India being applauded by our honourable president and prime minister. Through our collaboration with WAI, we are helping women break barriers and are empowering them to lead in this fast-growing sector. India’s aviation infrastructure has expanded exponentially, with the number of airports more than doubling from 74 to 157 over the past decade. Passenger numbers have surged from 11 crore to 22 crore annually, and the aircraft fleet has grown from 400 to 800, with projections to reach 1,400 within five years. So there is an immense opportunity for women in the aviation sector and to become part of this growth story,” said Civil Aviation Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam. He underscored the government’s dedication to integrating women into the expanding drone industry, linking this initiative to the broader transformation underway in India’s aviation sector.

He  further praised the contributions of women pioneers of the sector who have already paved the way in aviation, urging them to harness emerging opportunities in the drone sector, regional airlines and emerging areas of the aviation ecosystem. The Secretary emphasized that women’s participation is key to sustaining the momentum of growth, making them indispensable to the future of aviation in India.

Speaking on the occasion, Radha Bhatia, President, Women in Aviation India said: “India today is shining on the world stage! It is time for all forces to unite, especially to inspire and encourage the next generation of young girls and women to be a part of this thriving industry. While India has the largest number of women pilots in the world, we are rooting for equanimous growth across all verticals of aviation! In this relentless pursuit of our mission, we are reaching out to remote corners of the country to inspire and encourage young girls to join the aviation industry. Many of these girls have never seen an aircraft or have never been exposed to the world of aviation. Through these awards we aspire to felicitate outstanding achievers, who pass on the baton to the next generation! This whirlwind is what we hope will someday nurture leaders of the aviation industry tomorrow!”

Giving Wings to Dreams Awards are a grand culmination of a series of Girls in Aviation Day programs supported by state governments, airports, schools, colleges and other stakeholders, celebrated across 14 cities in India, reaching beyond metros such as Delhi and Mumbai to cities including Srinagar, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Leh, Bhubaneswar, Agra, Dehradun, Odisha and Srikakulam. Through the Girls in Aviation Day series this year, under the theme ‘Chhu Lengi Aasman Bharat Ki Betiyan’, WAI reached out to a large number of girl students from the 11th and 12th grades wherein we invited aviation experts, aviation institutions, corporate entities, students and academic institutions to come together to be a part of this mission as a CSR initiative. Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India, graced the program in Srikakulam, his constituency where he inspired and encouraged the young girl students, sharing his vision of writing a golden chapter of aviation. He shared that he hopes the initiative will highlight the possibilities of women in the aviation sector, encourage them more, and will bring new excitement to North Andhra girls. The Hon’ble Minister wholeheartedly congratulated Smt. Radha Bhatia, founder of Women in Aviation India and members who are conducting awareness camps across the country.

For over nine years ‘Girls in Aviation Day’ (GIAD) has been celebrated across 30 cities in India, touching the lives of more than 30,000 girls in person and multi fold otherwise. As part of WAI’s core initiatives, it connects with NGOs, schools, colleges and universities to mentor girl students, especially in middle & senior school, an age when students begin to plan their careers. Stalwarts of the aviation industry meet and engage with the young students both from the privileged and underprivileged sections of society and share with them their experiences, challenges and victories, and talk to them about the various path breaking roles that women are playing in the aviation industry.

Wherever required, we extend free education to girl students who cannot afford a professional education. For the GIAD campaign, we collaborate with various organizations, airlines and other stakeholders of the industry such as Commerce & Transport Department & School and Mass Education Dept., Govt. of Odisha, NSTI,  Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, DGT, GoI, Blue Dart Aviation Services Ltd., Millennium Aero  Dynamics Pvt. Ltd, Airports Authority of India, GMR and airports like Bangalore International Airport Ltd. (BIAL), GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL), Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL),  Chennai International Airport, Bagdogra International Airport, Chandigarh Airport with an objective to fulfil the mission of reaching out to  as many girls students as possible.

Taking another step towards encouraging the young girls to explore the various avenues in Aviation, 35 selected school girls who had attended Girls in Aviation Day events held across the country in 2024 were also rewarded at the Giving Wings to Dreams Awards ceremony, as Young Aviation Ambassadors, wherein they received sponsorship for courses related to the travel & aviation industry.

 

 

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Namia River Retreat joins Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s Considerate Collection

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Namia River Retreat in Vietnam has become the latest addition to Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s eco-conscious Considerate Collection.

Located along the banks of the Thu Bon River in Hoi An, Namia River Retreat is slated to open on 15th December 2025.

Nestled amid lush vegetation and tranquil waters, the luxury resort makes the most of its position, with beautiful pools that overlook the shimmering river, an experience grounded in wellbeing, and the cultural treasures of Hoi An within easy reach.

An exquisite approach to environmental awareness

Like other properties in the SLH Considerate Collection, Namia River Retreat prides itself on centering its operations on an ethos driven by a love of nature. 

Using mangroves as a retaining wall instead of concrete reinforcements, Namia River Retreat fully regenerated an eroded islet quite literally from the ground up. 

Bio-climactic architecture was included in the building plans, the energy-efficient lighting throughout prioritises protecting the night sky, and the grounds are landscaped entirely with indigenous plants and a bio-pond to encourage birds, bees and butterflies to flourish naturally. 

Product packaging used here is made from local banana leaves, straws are locally made from rice flour, and there are custom-designed water fountains around the resort for guests to refill their drink bottles. 

There are also bamboo bicycles and electric buggies to borrow, alongside a complimentary shuttle-boat service to Hoi An’s central market. 

Wildlife conservation tours to the nearby Son Tra peninsula to visit the protected yellow-hair monkeys are also on offer.

What is the SLH Considerate Collection?

Launched in 2021, the Considerate Collection celebrates the environmentally-led efforts made by SLH’s actively sustainable luxury hotels and has since doubled in members, continuing to inspire positive impact with every stay.  

These pioneering properties prove that luxury is compatible with longevity, as they are places that travellers can explore and experience with intention, whilst protecting the integrity of the location and its inhabitants.

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UK business travel set to reach a record of £68 billion

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Representative Image

 

After a challenging few years for the travel sector, it has been reported that the UK’s business travel spending is expected to reach a record-breaking £68 billion by the end of 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels.

This resurgence marks a turning point for UK business travel, with the nation ranking as the fourth highest spender globally with in-bound business trips from the United States, Poland, Germany, France and Ireland fuelling this boom.

With travel demand on the rise, Peter Slater, CEO of ground transportation company CMAC Group, warns that many businesses face unique opportunities and challenges shaped by both increasing demand and rising costs. He advises companies to respond strategically by rethinking their approach to business travel, ensuring it better supports employee wellbeing, balanced budgets and optimal productivity.

Why demand for business travel has surged
A recent report from CMAC Group found that 55.40% of respondents believe that face-to-face meetings are more effective than virtual ones, with an additional 24.90% deeming them much more effective.

Slater explains that while virtual meetings became a lifeline during the pandemic, they often fall short when it comes to building trust, negotiating complex deals and networking effectively.

“There’s only so much a screen can convey when it comes to relationship building and closing big deals,” says Slater. “Both business leaders and employees are keen to get back to face-to-face meetings, projects and events where they can collaborate, understand each other and achieve faster results.”

Many industries have found that key decisions, strategic collaborations and trust-building efforts benefit greatly from in-person interactions. As Slater notes, “Virtual communication tools will always play an important role, but the value of a handshake, shared experience, and in-person conversation is irreplaceable.”

Balancing rising travel costs with employee wellbeing
The revival in business travel comes at a time when many companies are working with cautious budgets.

“A focused approach to travel planning can help businesses find that balance,” suggests Slater. “It’s about being intentional: selecting accommodations that not only meet budget requirements but also provide a comfortable, restful space for employees who have a busy schedule.”

“Travel is often exhausting and while businesses need to be mindful of their travel spend right now, saving on costs doesn’t have to mean compromising on wellbeing,” Slater adds. “Finding providers that prioritise comfort, productivity and flexibility can make all the difference for employees.”

Accommodating inbound business travellers from key markets
With in-bound business travel also on the rise, UK businesses must adapt to cater to international visitors to make their trips as seamless as possible.

“For international guests, it’s about understanding cultural preferences and creating a welcoming experience,” says Slater. “Simple touches like familiar accommodations, clear communication around transport options, and local insights can go a long way in making their stay productive and enjoyable.”

For instance, offering tailored travel recommendations, ensuring easy airport transfers and even sharing local tips about business customs or nearby amenities can create stronger connections with overseas partners.

Slater emphasises, “Making a positive impression on international clients and partners starts with the details. Businesses that are proactive and go that extra mile for their inbound visitors are positioning themselves as ideal partners.”

With the UK leading in business travel spending and overseas arrivals expected to grow, the focus is now on how companies can leverage this surge to their advantage.

“Business travel doesn’t have to be reactive,” Slater concludes. “It can be a strategic tool that builds connections, drives growth, and supports wellbeing when managed thoughtfully. For companies that get this balance right, the potential rewards are huge.”

 

 

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HSMAI MEA partners with Sommet Education

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The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Middle East & Africa (MEA) and Sommet Education, representing prestigious institutions specialized in Hospitality Management such as Les Roches and Glion Institute of Higher Education, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a collaborative venture aimed at advancing professional development, thought leadership, and educational excellence within the hospitality sector. The partnership sets a framework for mutual engagement in projects and activities that will enhance educational and professional growth opportunities within the Hospitality industry.

The partnership’s key objective is to leverage the collective strengths of both HSMAI MEA and Sommet Education to provide value to hospitality professionals and students through a range of initiatives. Both parties envision the collaboration to drive industry standards in education, research, and experiential learning for future leaders of the hospitality industry. By connecting HSMAI MEA’s expansive professional network across the Middle East and Africa with Sommet Education’s renowned institutions, Les Roches and Glion, this partnership promises significant contributions to the sector.

A cornerstone of the collaboration includes thought leadership activities, with Les Roches and Glion Institute of Higher Education faculty set to participate in several Executive Roundtables hosted by HSMAI MEA. These roundtables offer a platform for sharing insights on hospitality trends, innovation, and strategic marketing. Further, this collaboration will allow both organizations to co-create impactful content through webinars, workshops, and seminars, providing valuable resources to HSMAI MEA’s network and promoting best practices across the industry.

Moreover, the partnership will feature contributions from Les Roches and Glion’s academic experts, who will produce research articles and whitepapers for publication on the HSMAI MEA website, reaching a broad professional audience and encouraging dialogue on current industry challenges and innovations.

In addition, Sommet Education will become an Educational Partner at the much-anticipated 7th Annual Commercial Strategy Conference (CSC) taking place on 26-27 November 2024 at Conrad Dubai. Les Roches and Glion will play a key role in this year’s ROCKSTAR Awards by presenting the awards and engaging with attendees. This visibility will allow Les Roches and Glion to showcase their contributions to hospitality education while providing a platform for networking and recruitment within the industry.

Through the partnership, HSMAI MEA will gain access to Sommet Education’s expertise and resources to enhance its own bespoke educational programs. Additionally, this partnership will offer HSMAI MEA members unique opportunities to engage with students from Les Roches and Glion for internships, research projects, and collaborative learning activities, fostering practical experience and professional growth for students and emerging industry professionals alike.

“At HSMAI MEA, we’re committed to empowering our regional community and continually bringing fresh innovation to our thought leadership and events, keeping our members at the forefront of industry change. This collaboration with Sommet Education connects our community with academic excellence, providing the insights, tools, and networks needed to thrive in a dynamic industry,” said Mona Faraj, President of HSMAI MEA.

Adrian Artimov, VP of Enrolment at Sommet Education, added, “Our partnership with HSMAI MEA aligns perfectly with our mission to foster excellence in hospitality through education. By connecting our students with such a vast professional network, we aim to bridge the gap between academia and the industry, empowering the next generation of hospitality leaders with real-world insights and opportunities.”

 

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World Travel & Tourism Council launches new edition of its Net Zero Roadmap for the industry

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The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) launched the second edition of its groundbreaking Net Zero Roadmap for Travel & Tourism on Wednesday, 20th November, at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijian.

Developed in collaboration with Accenture, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and supported by the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, this second edition of the roadmap underscores the urgency of climate action as the sector works towards net zero by 2050.

Building on the foundation of the original roadmap launched in 2021 at COP26, in Glasgow, Scotland, the latest edition addresses the escalating environmental impacts on tourism.

According to WTTC president and chief executive Julia Simpson: “This updated roadmap is a call to action for every business in travel and tourism. The sector is moving forward; but we mustn’t rest on the laurels. We must work together with greater ambition and urgency to create a sustainable future for travel and tourism. Every step counts towards preserving our planet and the livelihoods of millions.”

WTTC encourages travel and tourism companies, stakeholders, and governments to support and implement the measures outlined in this roadmap.

By uniting in pursuit of net zero, the sector can achieve meaningful climate action, protect vulnerable destinations, and meet the expectations of environmentally conscious travellers worldwide.

What’s new in the second edition?

This new edition of the roadmap shows how the number of global travel and tourism businesses setting climate targets has surged by 27 percent over the past three years, with more than half now actively committed to emissions reduction.

Around a third of these businesses are committed to Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) goals, underscoring their dedication to meeting rigorous emissions reduction benchmarks.

A major focus of the updated roadmap is improving sector alignment and transparency, particularly as demand for sustainable travel options grows, with 75 percent of global travellers now expressing a desire to travel more sustainably.

The roadmap also draws on WTTC’s Environmental and Social Research (ESR), which reveals a significant decrease in the travel and tourism sectors’ carbon emissions footprint.

According to the latest ESR data, the sectors jointly accounted for 6.5 percent of global emissions in 2023, down from a peak of 7.8 percent in 2019, representing an 10.2 percent reduction in the sector’s greenhouse gas intensity, showcasing the sector’s significant strides toward decoupling growth from emissions. 

Changes in different sectors

Across a number of industries, the roadmap notes significant improvements in carbon intensity.

In 2023, the aviation industry achieved a six percent reduction in carbon intensity from 2019, when both travel and tourism were at their peak, while the cruise and accommodation industries both decreased their carbon intensity by 11 percent.

These reductions are critical as the sector works to balance growth with a meaningful transition to lower emissions.

The updated roadmap also highlights the role of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in reducing aviation’s carbon footprint.

Reducing emissions by up to 80 percent over the fuel’s lifecycle, SAF has emerged as a cornerstone for aviation’s decarbonisation pathway, and the roadmap calls for the expansion of SAF adoption across airlines, supported by investment and regulatory alignment, to accelerate emissions reductions.

It also provides more detailed guidance for small businesses which represent the backbone of travel and tourism yet face unique challenges such as defining and following a more strategic decarbonisation approach.

It emphasises the importance of accessible green financing for small to medium enterprises (SMEs), which often lack the resources to implement sustainability measures. 

Despite these advancements, the report identifies ongoing challenges, both internal and external, that require attention. 

Measuring Scope 3 emissions remains a complex task for many companies, as does achieving regulatory alignment across regions.

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Emirates highlights fleet modernization and customer experience upgrades

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Emirates’ third quarter (Q3) (01 July to 30 September) advertising campaign showcased a strong commitment to enhancing the customer experience through significant fleet modernization and innovative technology. The campaign, primarily focused on brand awareness, highlighted extensive refurbishment programs for both the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 fleets, introducing new premium economy and business class seating options, and showcasing upgraded interiors across all classes, reveals the Global Ads Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s latest report, “Decoding Emirates’ YouTube Advertising Strategy,” provides detailed analysis of the key themes and values emphasized by the company in the top 10 YouTube advertisements. These include Innovation, Luxury, Quality, Reliability, Prestige, and Safety.

Shreyasee Majumder, Social Media Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The multifaceted campaign successfully targeted a broad audience, including frequent flyers, business travelers, and those seeking luxurious travel options. By incorporating a heartwarming story featuring a 101-year-old loyal passenger and highlighting the airline’s partnership with Wimbledon, Emirates effectively conveyed its commitment to personalized service, luxury, and exceptional travel experiences.

“Additionally, the campaign’s inclusion of a public service announcement featuring the Emirates Airline Foundation broadened the brand’s appeal by showcasing its dedication to humanitarian efforts and corporate social responsibility, further solidifying its ‘Fly Better’ brand promise.”

Below are the key focus areas of Emirates’ advertisements, revealed by GlobalData’s Global Ads Platform:

Fleet modernization and refurbishment: Multiple advertisements highlighted Emirates’ extensive refurbishment program, encompassing 110 Airbus A380s and 81 Boeing 777s. This emphasized the airline’s investment in upgrading interiors, introducing premium economy seating, and enhancing overall passenger comfort. The scale of the project underscored Emirates’ dedication in providing a superior flying experience.

Premium cabin experience: Advertisements showcased upgraded interiors across various cabin classes, including new leather seats, improved business class layouts (1-2-1 configuration), and the introduction of premium economy to enhance comfort and luxury. The focus on these details elevated the perceived value of the Emirates experience.

Emphasis on customer service: The advertisement featuring Rachida, a 101-year-old frequent flyer, highlighted Emirates’ commitment to personalized care and assistance for passengers of all ages and needs. This showcased the airline’s dedication to providing exceptional service, exceeding the expectations of its customers.

Corporate social responsibility: The advertisement featuring the Emirates Airline Foundation and a specially designed A380 livery showcased the airline’s commitment to humanitarian causes. This strengthened the brand image by associating Emirates with compassion and social responsibility. The visual of the children’s artwork on the aircraft made the foundation’s work more relatable and memorable.

Technological innovation: The advertisement featuring the FlightPulse app highlighted Emirates’ adoption of advanced technology to enhance safety, fuel efficiency, and pilot training. This positioned the airline as an innovator in the aviation industry, reinforcing its commitment to continuous improvement and a “Fly Better” experience through efficient and safe operations.

 

 

 

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Miral and the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center lead beach cleanup

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Over 250 passionate employees, students, and community members, came together for a beach cleanup initiative at Al Bahya Beach – Al Sadr Slipway in Abu Dhabi, resulting in the collection of an impressive 961 kg of waste and a remarkable transformation of the shoreline.

Organized in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Municipality and the Department of Education and Knowledge in Abu Dhabi, Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, and the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center—the largest dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation, and return center in the region—hosted the initiative to help protect the emirate’s marine ecosystems and mitigate damage caused by ocean waste. The effort promoted environmental stewardship and fostered a culture of sustainability within the community, aligning with the Center’s commitment to marine conservation in the region.

Participants learned about the environmental challenges posed by ocean waste, its impact on local wildlife, and the importance of waste reduction and proper disposal methods by the educators of The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center who were stationed around the location. To showcase the significance of each volunteer’s contribution, the team guided participants through sorting and weighing the collected waste, demonstrating the tangible impact of their efforts.

Taghrid AlSaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications & Events at Miral, commented: “We are delighted to see the community band together and preserve our beautiful coastline. Our sustainability efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to delivering positive, long-term value to the communities in which we operate, in line with the core values of our Group Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy. Through initiatives like this beach cleanup, we aim to promote the importance of environmental conservation while engaging the community to become our sustainability partners. We are proud to co-host this initiative with Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, showcasing the vital role of collaboration when addressing environmental challenges.”

Dr. Elise Marquis, Director of the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, added: “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to our valued partners and the community members who participated in this cleanup. Initiatives engaging the community and raising awareness on important challenges faced by the marine environment are part of the Center’s core missions. More than the clean-up itself, we are giving keys to the community for a more sustainable life with tips that everyone can use in their daily life to help protect the marine wildlife of the Arabian Gulf. This morning, each volunteer received a reusable water bottle and is encouraged to use it every day. Such individual action is crucial to reduce the number of plastic bottles and plastic caps ending up on our beaches and impacting the delicate balance of our ocean by slowly degrading into microplastics.”

Located on Yas Island, the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center is the largest dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation, and return center in the region. The state-of-the-art facility includes a research and rescue operation, a veterinary hospital, and a dedicated aquaculture facility. Led by a team of marine scientists, zoologists, and experts in animal care, the Center plays a vital role in research and conservation in the region.

As part of its commitment to protecting marine life and habitats, the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center hosts frequent community events to raise awareness and encourage public participation in marine conservation.

The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center is here to help any marine animal in need or at risk. If you spot an animal in danger, please call the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) on 800 555.

 

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Goa Tourism to participate in Tashkent International Tourism Fair 2024

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Goa Tourism is all set to participate in the Tashkent International Tourism Fair (TITF) 2024, scheduled to be held at CAEx, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from 21st to 23rd November. This prestigious event is recognized as a significant platform in the tourism industry, bringing together stakeholders from various countries to showcase their offerings, foster collaborations, and discuss the best holiday packages and stay options to drive tourism growth.

The delegation from Goa Tourism will highlight the state’s diverse and unique tourism experiences, ranging from its rich cultural heritage and stunning coastal landscapes to emerging hinterland and ecotourism opportunities. The focus will be on promoting Goa’s commitment to Regenerative Tourism through sustainable practices that benefit the local community, environment, and economy and to increase the flow of tourists from Uzbekistan and nearby countries to Goa.

Rohan A. Khaunte stated:  “Goa’s vision is to lead by example in the field of sustainable tourism. The TITF 2024 will provide us with the perfect platform to connect with global industry leaders and share our efforts in promoting a tourism model that prioritizes our natural heritage and local culture while fostering economic development. We aim to make Goa not just a destination, but a movement towards responsible and regenerative tourism and facilitate tourists coming from other countries to enjoy the hospitality of Goa.”

Commenting on Goa’s participation, Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & Managing Director GTDC, added: “Our presence at TITF 2024 will be a significant opportunity to position Goa as a holistic travel destination that goes beyond its beaches. We aim to showcase Goa’s offbeat experiences like wellness, adventure, spiritual, heritage and more to emphasize our commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism practices that preserve our cultural and natural heritage while ensuring economic growth. With the recent commencement of direct flights from Tashkent to Goa, operating twice a week, serviced by the advanced Airbus A320 Neo, will connect Tashkent to the Manohar International Airport (Mopa), opening up new avenues for tourism and cultural exchange between Uzbekistan and Goa”

The Indian Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan is actively and strongly supporting Goa’s participation during the travel fair. During the event, Goa Tourism’s stall is expected to attract visitors, travel agents, tour operators, and international delegates, sparking numerous discussions on potential collaborations and investments in Goa’s tourism landscape. The delegation also plans to engage with key industry leaders to explore avenues for enhancing Goa’s international connectivity and promoting it as a preferred destination for travelers seeking authentic and immersive experiences.

The Tashkent International Tourism Fair 2024 will provide an ideal platform for Goa Tourism to reinforce its vision of transforming tourism into a tool for social and economic development, aligned with its Regenerative Tourism approach. This participation reflects Goa’s strategic initiatives to enhance global tourism partnerships, expand its market reach, and attract high-quality tourism that benefits the local communities and preserves the state’s vibrant ecosystem.

The Department of Tourism looks forward to building on the success of its participation at TITF 2024, continuing its journey towards innovative tourism solutions, and setting new benchmarks in sustainable and regenerative travel.

 

 

 

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