Archive for category: Uncategorized

Accor bag wins at TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 – Middle East

The post Accor bag wins at TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 – Middle East appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Accor emerged as a winner at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 – Middle East, clinching Content Marketing of the Year – United Arab Emirates for its exemplary marketing strategy, as well as Sustainability Initiative of the Year – United Arab Emirates which recognises its leadership in sustainable hospitality. 

Promoting brand identity

By collaborating with renowned content studio Beautiful Destinations on the project For ALL The Travellers In You, Accor harnessed innovative storytelling and dynamic content creation, showcasing its leading brands and immersive destinations. Making a shift from conventional static imagery, the company utilised the power of video content and tailored captivating social media videos that inspire wanderlust and reinforce brand love. Its collaboration with the agency further extends beyond content creation to distribution, driving bookings, brand recognition, and engagement. 

The project’s pilot phase, which included 21 countries, presented the company’s hotels as immersive destinations, which transformed how consumers view them. Its thematic framework, “From Dawn to Dusk,” emphasises the culturally enriching experiences available to guests both inside and outside its properties. This marketing initiative, which includes 67 hotels, also received support from 1,000 Accor team members, known as Heartists, 300 of  whom served as models. This reflects the collective spirit that fosters unity amongst Accor team members. 

The content generated from this project also serves as a sustainable archive of visuals and serves double-duty as a compelling brand pitch tool for partners and sales. 

As Accor has unlimited usage rights to the archive, this strategic asset ensures consistent brand identity reinforcement as it is easily accessible to global teams. It even doubles as a sustainable approach that optimises investments whilst maximising asset longevity and adaptability.

Commitment to sustainability

Accor spearheaded multifaceted Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts across its 81 UAE hotels, covering key areas including the elimination of single-use plastics, achieving eco-certifications for hotels, and the implementation of new breakfast standards to reduce food waste. 

Amongst its initiatives are enriching menus to feature a minimum of 40% vegetarian dishes and displaying carbon footprint labels for each menu item. With this, the company aims to limit the carbon impact per meal to combat climate change and, at the same time, allows guests to make more informed and sustainable food choices. 

To achieve this objective, Accor collaborated with 10 renowned chefs in the UAE, who were able to reduce the average carbon footprint of their dishes to 0.5kg CO2e. This curated collection, consisting of 45 low-carbon recipes, was then shared across the Accor network in the Emirates for other chefs to incorporate into their menus.

The impact of this initiative was reflected in the survey conducted in participating hotels, which showed that 63% of guests opted for less carbon-intensive dishes due to the labels on the menus and that 87% of them gained awareness about the carbon footprint of their food through this project.

Furthermore, the company’s new breakfast standards have minimised waste and optimised resource use, which serve as a remarkable contribution to its ambitious goal of reducing food waste by 60% by 2030.

Aside from this, Accor also eliminated plastic bottles by adopting circular models with filtered water systems. In terms of energy sufficiency, the company also set the default temperature in common hotel areas and guest rooms between 24-26°C, significantly reducing its carbon emissions without sacrificing the customers’ comfort. Additionally, Accor initiated guest awareness campaigns in which they were encouraged to reduce the frequency of room, towel and linen cleaning during extended stays.

Highlighting the concept of “Dubai as a Laboratory of Sustainable Initiatives,” the company established a solid foundation for future sustainable projects and positioned the Emirates as a testing ground for implementing similar initiatives in other Middle Eastern countries.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Middle East is a prestigious awards programme that recognises key players that redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences in the travel industry.

The TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 – Middle East is presented by Travel Daily Media. To view the full list of winners, click here. For more details, please contact Jane Patiag at +(65) 3158 1386 ext. 217 or awards@traveldailymedia.com.

The post Accor bag wins at TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 – Middle East appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Embraer chooses SIAEP as its first authorised E2 service centre in the Asia-Pacific

The post Embraer chooses SIAEP as its first authorised E2 service centre in the Asia-Pacific appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Embraer appointed SIA Engineering (Philippines) Corporation (SIAEP) as the first Embraer Authorised Service Center in the Asia-Pacific region to perform maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for its E-Jets E2 family of aircraft. 

SIAEP, a subsidiary of SIA Engineering Company Limited (SIAEC), has been an authorised service center in Asia-Pacific for Embraer’s first-generation E-Jets since 2017. The firm currently has three hangars located in Clark, Philippines.

Frank Stevens, vice-president of global MRO centres for Embraer Services & Support said: “SIAEP has been a key partner for Embraer in the region in the last years. With this new agreement, SIAEP becomes even more strategic for the future of our company in the region, as the E2 fleet grows. We are very pleased with this step ahead on our long-term partnership.

Jeremy Yew, SIAEC’s senior vice-president for base maintenance, said: “We are delighted to extend our existing partnership with Embraer and play a key role in supporting their growth in the Asia-Pacific region. We look forward to providing quality and efficient base maintenance services to the E2 fleet at our facility in Clark.”

An expanding network 

The growing Embraer Services & Support footprint is an important development of Embraer’s expansion strategy in the Asia Pacific region. Embraer’s E-Jets fleet in Asia Pacific, comprising both the first-generation E-Jets and the E-Jets E2 are operated by airlines in Singapore, Australia, India, Myanmar, Japan and China. 

Scoot has a firm order of nine E190-E2 jets, two of which commenced flights as of May this year. The subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA) is the first E-Jet E2 operator in Southeast Asia.

Also, Virgin Australia announced a firm order for eight E190-E2 in August this year, with deliveries scheduled to start from the second half of 2025.

The post Embraer chooses SIAEP as its first authorised E2 service centre in the Asia-Pacific appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

talabat steers Sustainable Transport at the Green Mobility Forum

The post talabat steers Sustainable Transport at the Green Mobility Forum appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

To support sustainable transportation, talabat announced its participation as the main sponsor for the Green Mobility Forum, hosted by the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology (MTCIT) in  Salalah recently.

This prominent event is part of a broader initiative aimed at promoting carbon neutrality by 2050 and emphasising the crucial role of electric vehicles (EVs) in achieving this goal. Through this forum, talabat aimed to highlight its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and supporting innovative solutions for last-mile and quick commerce deliveries by showcasing its e-bike range.

At the forum, Dimitra Theodoropulos, Director of Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility at talabat, provided insights into the company’s efforts to address pipeline emissions, detailing pilot projects that evaluated the performance of electric vehicles (EVs) versus internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles under controlled conditions.

Reflecting on the forum, Theodoropulos said: “We were excited to engage with industry leaders and stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions and collaborative approaches that would drive the adoption of green mobility technologies. This forum provided a valuable platform for us to align our efforts and accelerate progress toward Oman Net Zero 2050.”

talabat’s leadership in the Green Mobility Forum and exhibition highlights its commitment to environmental progress and sustainable solutions. As a testament to this commitment, talabat announced a new initiative aimed at reducing last-mile delivery carbon footprint and enhancing operational efficiency. The pilot project was conducted under the auspices of the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, partnering with EVO, an OOMCO subsidiary and Oman’s market leader in green mobility, to launch a pilot project in Oman.

This project involved introducing e-bikes into the talabat delivery fleet, setting the stage for a transformative impact on delivery operations.  The company also aims to boost community awareness and collaborate with industry leaders to advance a more sustainable future.

 

 

 

 

The post talabat steers Sustainable Transport at the Green Mobility Forum appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Whisky Live makes its Macau debut at the Grand Lisboa Palace this October

The post Whisky Live makes its Macau debut at the Grand Lisboa Palace this October appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The famed international spirits event Whisky Live is slated to make its Macau debut in October 2024 at the Grand Lisboa Palace Resort, in partnership with SJM Resorts.

Highlights include the elusive Port Ellen 37-Year-Old, a highly sought-after release from a distillery that has resumed production but still offers limited quantities of older whiskies. 

The event will also showcase the Chen Uen’s Romance of the Three Kingdoms series from WhiskyFind, which combines whisky with the artistry of renowned comic creator Chen Uen, providing a unique immersion into the world of whisky and “Records of the Three Kingdoms”. 

Additionally, attendees can look forward to the limited special single cask bottling from the Hokkaido Akkeshi Distillery, a Japanese whisky from one of Hokkaido’s earlier distilleries, known for its distinct flavour profile that combines peat and sherry cask ageing.

SPEX x Picasso 

During the event, the famed Spey distillery will introduce its SPEY × PICASSO collection, featuring a whisky inspired by Picasso’s artwork, as well as a vintage selection from 1990-1999, showcasing the influence of time on flavour development. 

Additionally, the Secret Speyside series will highlight hidden gems from lesser-known distilleries, including Longmorn and Glen Keith, offering attendees a rare chance to sample aged expressions.

Take a masterclass

Whisky Live also gives connoisseurs the opportunity to take an exclusive series of masterclasses featuring the luminaries of the whisky world, offering a unique opportunity to sample some of the finest whiskies while gaining insights from respected industry figures. 

Here, they can experience the art of whisky making and tasting in an intimate setting, surrounded by masters of the craft.

Among the highlights are sessions like “Discovering the World of Whisk(e)y Regions and Styles,” led by Stephen Mack, which explores whisk(e)ys from Scotland, Ireland, America, and Japan. Participants will taste renowned selections such as Glencadam 10 Years Old, Teeling Single Malt, Maker’s Mark Bourbon, and The Chita. 

Another engaging session, “A Journey Along Mars Distilleries,” features Hiroaki Nakamura, who will guide attendees through the history of Mars Distilleries, presenting exceptional whiskies like MARS Single Malt Komagatake 2023 Edition and MARS Tsunuki Yakushima Aging Cask #2094.

In addition, Suntory Global Spirits China’s head of brand ambassadors Jacky Zhang leads an “Introduction to House of Suntory Whisky,” delving into its rich 200-year history. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste iconic whiskies including Chita Single Grain, Hibiki Japanese Harmony, Hakushu 12 Year Old, and Yamazaki 12 Year Old. 

Master Distiller Lasse Öznek from Copenhagen Distillery will also share insights of “The Way of Making Distinctively Danish Whisky,” blending contemporary Nordic craftsmanship with traditional techniques. Participants will learn about Copenhagen Distillery’s three whisky categories while sampling exclusive and very rare servings.

The post Whisky Live makes its Macau debut at the Grand Lisboa Palace this October appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Accor presents its four go-to destinations in the Philippines

The post Accor presents its four go-to destinations in the Philippines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With the Philippines poised to become one of Asia’s foremost destinations, Accor presents travellers with its selection of the country’s four best locations.

Encompassing both urban and coastal venues, these destinations certainly have something to offer the diverse tastes of today’s global trekkers.

Accor’s choices are Manila, the nation’s capital; the provincial heartland of Cebu; Boracay, one of the world’s finest island escapes; and Clark in Central Luzon which promises fun for adventure buffs.

Manila: a capital of wonders

The Philippines’ capital city serves as the gateway to countless adventures. 

In Manila, travellers can explore the rich history of the stunning capital against the backdrop of Spanish colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers.

Intramuros, the famed Walled City, transports visitors back to the 16th century. Quaint cafes and ancient churches line the streets, offering a glimpse into Manila’s vibrant past.

Manila is also host to several Accor properties suitable for a diverse range of travellers. The ibis Styles Manila Araneta City and the Novotel Manila Araneta City are open for those exploring the pop-cultural hub of the metropolis in Quezon City.

On the other hand, the contemporary business traveller would most likely appreciate the extensive amenities of the Novotel Suites Manila at Acqua which is right in the heart of the bustling central business district.

Cebu and Boracay: southern splendour

For those making their way into the Visayas, Cebu serves as the primary gateway into the region. Famed as the first location where foreigners glimpsed the Philippines, Cebu is an exquisite micro-archipelago made up of 167 islands and islets. 

Aside from historical sites such as the Magellan’s Cross, Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, and the Cebu Taoist Temple, Cebu is also known for its exceptional nightlife and cuisine, as well as its ecological wonders.

Nature trekkers are bound to enjoy the province’s cascading waterfalls teeming with exotic plant life, witness rare birds soaring through the sky, or marvel at the dazzling coral reefs teeming with marine life.

The Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu serves as an excellent base for those travelling to the region thanks to exceptional amenities that bring the best of the Mediterranean to the heart of the Philippines.

Boracay, on the other hand, is pure and exquisite paradise with its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear azure waters, and breathtaking sunsets.

Here, one can simply unwind on the beach, explore nearby islets on an island-hopping tour, or delve into the underwater world with exciting diving and snorkelling opportunities.

While Boracay comes first for honeymooners and couples, Accor offers exceptional amenities for those travelling with their families.

Set amidst a lush tropical landscape with an exceptional semi-private beach, the Green Globe-certified Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay is an indulgent choice thanks to its massive multi-level pool, serene spa, and various water sports activities. The resort’s kids’ club and playground area make it perfect for families. 

Guests can enjoy the best sunsets and live entertainment at the beachfront Sol Marina Beach Club, featuring weekend nights of fire dancing.

Clark: adventurers’ delight in the north

Clark in the Central Luzon province of Pampanga is one of the recent additions to the country’s growing list of must-see destinations.

Around two hours north of Manila, this lively cosmopolitan hub is brimming with possibilities for adventure making it the destination for thrill-seekers and families alike. 

Dive into excitement at Aqua Planet Water Park, one of the largest water parks in Asia, or relax and rejuvenate at Puning Hot Spring while surrounded by stunning landscapes. Embark on a thrilling hike to the crater lake of the famous Mount Pinatubo, known for its breath-taking views and adventurous trails. 

While in Clark, consider staying at Swissôtel Clark. Ideal for families, solo travellers, and business visitors, the hotel offers stunning views of the city and its surrounding rolling hills. Each room is bathed in natural light, providing dramatic sunrise and sunset vistas.

The post Accor presents its four go-to destinations in the Philippines appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Tourism Malaysia goes on second India roadshow for 2024

The post Tourism Malaysia goes on second India roadshow for 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Officials from Tourism Malaysia and the Malaysian Indian Tour & Travel Association (MITTA) are currently in India for their second roadshow in the country for this year.

This tour kicked off in the city of Trivandrum on Monday, 23rd September, and will continue till 30th September. Other stops on the tour are Calicut, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati.

Headed by Tourism Malaysia’s senior deputy director Mohamad Libra Lee Haniff, the roadshow team includes representatives from 35 local organisations, including hotels and resorts, travel agents, tourism product owners, visa consultants, Malaysia-based airlines, and officials from state tourism boards.

A brilliant opportunity

The B2B event provides an invaluable opportunity for Malaysian tourism providers to connect with their Indian counterparts, fostering strategic alliances that will promote tourism products and services. 

The event also opens up new avenues for business partnerships in the Indian market. Additionally, the roadshow serves as a platform for Tourism Malaysia to showcase the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year, scheduled for 2026.

Currently, 220 flights operate weekly between India and Malaysia, offering a seating capacity of 41,161 passengers. These flights are serviced by Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air, AirAsia, IndiGo, and most recently, Air India.

Promising results

Tourism Malaysia’s continued promotional efforts in India have already shown promising results. 

After a successful roadshow to five major cities earlier this year, from 12th to 22nd February 2024, and participation in key trade events like the South Asia Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE) and Outbound Travel Mart (OTM), the agency continues to extend its reach with this second roadshow.

By July 2024, Indian tourist arrivals to Malaysia surged by an impressive 84.5 percent compared to the same period in 2023, totalling 624,312 visitors. This growth is a testament to Tourism Malaysia’s commitment to attracting one million Indian tourists by the end of 2024.

The post Tourism Malaysia goes on second India roadshow for 2024 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Philippines kicks off World Tourism Week with “Love the Flavors” campaign

The post Philippines kicks off World Tourism Week with “Love the Flavors” campaign appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As the travel sector ushered in World Tourism Week, the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) and popular food-and-beverage (F&B) chain Mang Inasal launched Love the Flavors, Love the Philippines, a campaign that casts the spotlight on gastronomic tourism in the country.

The campaign essentially bolsters the current DOT Love the Philippines promotional initiative through its presentation of Filipino cuisine to both domestic and international travellers.

Launched on Monday, 23rd September, and running until 27th September, both local and international tourists can stop by any Mang Inasal branch, present their valid ID along with their boarding pass or e-ticket to avail of a free halo-halo [shaved ice and fruit] dessert with their orders of choice.

Connecting people through food

According to Mang Inasal president Mike V Castro, food connects people, and his company takes pride in being a part of that connection for tourists visiting the Philippines. 

Castro said: “We’re excited to share the flavors of the Philippines with the world. Every bite of chicken inasal [Bacolod-style lime and annatto grilled chicken], every spoonful of halo-halo, connects tourists to the heart of our culture, making their travels more meaningful and unforgettable.”

The DOT looks upon Love the Flavors and other campaigns as an immersive way by which tourists can learn more about the country’s rich culinary heritage. Beyond simply sampling dishes from different provinces, travellers can also learn about the ingredients that go into them, meet the farmers, and attend festivals throughout the country all year round.

A truly unique gustatory experience

Keynote speaker DOT assistant secretary Gisselle Romualdez Quisumbing remarked how Filipino food has been made distinctive thanks to the numerous influences that has shaped it throughout history.

Quisumbing declared: “With the Philippines and all its 7,641 islands each having their own identity and heritage, culinary tourism presents a huge potential for the country. With our Love the Philippines campaign, we are proud to showcase not only our breathtaking landscapes, but also the richness of our food: food that tells the story of our history and diverse heritage.”

She further pointed out that, as the world observes World Tourism Week, there is a need to emphasise that food is more than just a culinary experience, but it serves as a way to connect people, promote appreciation of culture and drive economic development.

The post Philippines kicks off World Tourism Week with “Love the Flavors” campaign appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Dusit Thani College students reach the final round of SHC 2024

The post Dusit Thani College students reach the final round of SHC 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Sustainability is one of the most urgent issues the world faces, and one of the biggest industries addressing this challenge is hospitality. An initiative in hospitality education to nurture the development of new, innovative sustainability products is the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge 2024 (SHC) founded by Hotelschool The Hague one of the world’s top hospitality schools in the Netherlands. The SHC empowers the next generation of hospitality leaders to think outside the box and develop their own innovative sustainable products and to provide potential solutions to the sustainability challenges of the hospitality industry.

Recently Dusit Thani College and Dusit International’s ASAI Chinatown hosted the semi-finals round for Asia and Africa in Bangkok. The event gathered more than 70 hospitality students, hailing from some of the best hospitality schools in Asia and Africa, to compete and prove their product and plan would make the biggest impact on sustainability. 13 captivating ideas were presented from 13 teams which could be put into real practice and each pitch, product and plan was carefully judged by a panel of industry experts. However, only two teams were able to advance further to the final round and the team from Dusit Thani College, Thailand’s first and largest institute dedicated to hospitality education and training, emerged victorious.

The winning product, “Thara”, the organic water purifying system, is the groundbreaking idea of three Dusit Thani College students from the Professional Culinary Arts International Program, Supakorn Zhang, Shaun Ajay Mathew, and Jirada Kluaymaingarm. The idea comes from the concept of using plants to absorb residues from gray water to be able to reuse it for other non-consuming purposes. The prototype of this system illustrated how the water ran past the vertical green wall to the sterilizing box before going to the tap, reducing energy consumption and the waste of used water. The students also ran a laboratory test for the quality of sterilized water, showing its effectiveness of 75% which could be a promising sign of practical utilization in the industry.

“These past months working with two incredible team members, Auitang and Shaun, have been an extraordinary experience. The support and guidance we received were immense and a key reason why we made it to the finals. The time we spent working on this project was exhausting but worthwhile. I am deeply thankful for the challenges we faced, and the sleepless nights spent juggling between schoolwork and this project. I’m incredibly happy and grateful for the opportunity to work on this project.” said Jirada Kluaymaingarm.

The other finalist team product was “Dynapath” from Vin University, Vietnam, which created power-generating tiles from recycled plastics. The idea was derived from the concept of optimizing the benefits of daily activities, walking in this case, whereby the tiles would produce energy when stepped on. In addition, the idea aimed to promote physical activities of guests, reduce the use of power-consuming elevators, and recycle plastic waste.

Simon Lloyd, Dean – Faculty of Hospitality Management at Dusit Thani College commented: “We are delighted that the Dusit Thani College team has made it to the finals of the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge. Dusit Thani College strives to support sustainable practices and initiatives which benefit both the hospitality industry and our own college, and events and accomplishments such as reaching the SHC Finals help further drive interest and awareness among our students in sustainable practices, products, and futures.”

Dusit Thani College and Dusit International are committed to developing sustainable practices and through Dusit International’s new “Tree of Life” initiative, a group-wide sustainability program, both the College and the Dusit International are taking steps to ensure the future sustainability of the hospitality industry in Thailand and across the world. The finals of the Sustinable Hospitality Challenge will be hosted in Dubai as part of the Future Hospitality Summit from 30th September to 2nd October.

 

The post Dusit Thani College students reach the final round of SHC 2024 appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

Meliá Hotels International launches Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts in Southeast Asia

The post Meliá Hotels International launches Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts in Southeast Asia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Meliá Hotels International announced the renaming of the Gran Meliá Nha Trang as the Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel.

Villa La Corail is the first resort in Southeast Asia under Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, the most luxurious brand by Meliá Hotels International. This haven of luxury represents the best of Spanish sophistication and heartfelt Vietnamese hospitality. 

Since it opened its doors in summer 2023, this seafront sanctuary at Fairy Mountain Bay has delighted guests with its lavish seaside villas, world-class services including its Exceptional Experiences and Michelin-pedigree restaurants.

Opening a new chapter characterised by luxury 

The transition to Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel marks a new chapter of unparalleled Mediterranean luxury in Vietnam. 

This refined name carries profound meaning: “Villa” embodies the essence of the resort’s most exclusive offering, an extraordinary collection of private villas, each with its own infinity pool and bespoke designer interiors, providing a haven of sophistication and serenity. 

“Le Corail” pays homage to the vibrant coral reefs that grace the coastline, a natural treasure that enriches the beauty of Nha Trang Bay.
With these in mind, Villa Le Corail seamlessly blends European elegance with nature, offering discerning guests a privileged connection to the pristine environment while upholding a commitment to enhancing these wonders for the world to admire.

On a grand scale

The new Gran Ocean Villas are the crown jewel of the resort. Spanning 600m², these oceanfront villas boast soaring ceilings and opulent interiors, thoughtfully crafted by some of Europe’s most renowned fashion designers. 

Each villa captures the essence of Mediterranean luxury while seamlessly blending with Vietnam’s lush tropical flora and breathtaking seascapes. With every villa showcasing its own distinctive style and character, each offers an unparalleled experience of sophistication and individuality.

Every Gran Ocean Villas is blessed with up to four bedrooms, plenty of natural light, high ceilings, floating terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic vistas, and infinity pools that appear to merge with the sea. Complete comfort can be enjoyed with 100% cotton linens, walk-in closets, elegant marble bathrooms with rain showers and Carner Barcelona amenities, cutting-edge technology and home comforts. With balconies and spacious alfresco terraces that overlook the seascapes of Nha Trang Bay, these spectacular suites will become among the most sought-after places to stay in Vietnam.

To enhance the five-star experience, villa guests can enjoy the most personalised service with dedicated butlers, private dining opportunities, in-villa wellness treatments and classes that bring guests’ most extravagant dreams to life amid unrivalled luxury. The villas also offer the perfect setting to celebrate unforgettable moments and special occasions.

The post Meliá Hotels International launches Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts in Southeast Asia appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia

UN Tourism calls on G20 to lead the sustainability revolution of the sector

The post UN Tourism calls on G20 to lead the sustainability revolution of the sector appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

At a meeting of the Ministers of Tourism of the G20 economies in Belem, Brazil, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili noted that the sector is on track to fully recover pre-pandemic levels by the end of this year. Given this, the focus must now shift to the future, with an emphasis on empowering and including local communities, fighting climate change, and progressing nature net positive and circularity.

Secretary-General Pololikashvili said: “Tourism heavily depends on biodiversity, climate stability and natural resources. Accelerating climate action in tourism is critical for the resilience of the sector and host communities.” In this context, he applauded Brazil’s G20 Presidency focus on inclusion and sustainability.

Accelerating climate action in tourism is critical for the resilience of the sector and host communities

Closing the the meeting, Minister of Tourism of Brazil, Celso Sabino said “the Belém Declaration affirms the collective commitment to promote a more sustainable, resilient and inclusive tourism in the world”.

Climate change, e-skills development and inclusion key to tourism’s future

At the G20 meeting, UN Tourism stressed the critical importance of education and skills for the future of the sector and its transformation. “ILO data shows that around 880,000 tourism jobs annually will require specialized training until 2030 and that 25% of tourism stakeholders report significant shortages in skilled employees, particularly in customer service and managerial roles,” Mr Pololikashvili noted.

The Secretary General also recalled the role tourism can have in development and welcomed the G20’s tourism focus on financing for development.

“For many developing countries, including Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States, tourism is a major source of employment, foreign exchange earnings and tax revenues. Yet, the sector continues to be overlooked as a tool for development, with the total Official Development Assistance disbursements for tourism remaining below 0.25% of total ODA.” he said.

Secretary-General thanked and commended the Belem Declaration adopted by the G20 Tourism Ministers which highlights the Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (SF-MST) as a tool to produce credible, comparable, and integrated data on tourism’s economic, social, and environmental impact as well as the G20 Tourism and SDGs Platform developed by the G20 Tourism in collaboration with UN Tourism.

G20 economies: Tourism powerhouses

The G20 economies represent over 70% of all international tourist arrivals and receipts generated worldwide and 82% of tourism’s global GDP. In 2023, the sector accounted directly for 3.1% of the GDP of the G20, 5% of all exports of the group and 23% of all its service exports.

International tourism recovered 97% of its pre pandemic levels in the G20 economies in the seven months 2024. G20 tourism direct GDP value recovered fully already in 2023 at US$ 2.8 trillion.

 

The post UN Tourism calls on G20 to lead the sustainability revolution of the sector appeared first on Travel Daily Media.

Source: traveldailymedia